Member for Myall Lakes Tanya Thompson has welcomed the announcement of six successful local recipients of the NSW Government’s 2025 NAIDOC Week Grants Program, with several events already held and more still to come across the region.
The annual program, which delivered over $548,000 in grants to more than 180 groups across the state, supports projects that celebrate and strengthen Aboriginal culture, history and community connection.
“Myall Lakes is home to proud and diverse Aboriginal communities, and I’m thrilled to see so many local organisations supported through this year’s NAIDOC Grants Program,” Mrs Thompson said.
“This year’s theme – ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’ has inspired some incredible initiatives, and I look forward to seeing their impact.”
Successful recipients in the Myall Lakes include:
- Taree & District Preschool Ltd – Hosting a combined preschools NAIDOC celebration at Saltwater National Park on 12 August, featuring Elders, Aboriginal leaders, and cultural activities for young children.
- Bulahdelah Preschool – Funded to attend the Saltwater celebration.
- Pacific Palms Public School P&C – Presenting Didgeribone, an interactive music and storytelling performance by Tjupurru from the Djabera Djabera people, on 29 July.
- Taree Universities Campus – Running Biripi Film Night: Under the Stars, a project celebrating Biripi storytelling through local film screenings and a community film night (July – October).
- First Steps Count – Delivered Strong Paths, a school holiday program during NAIDOC Week (7- 11 July), offering cultural activities for children led by local Biripi people.
- Community Resources Ltd – Held the Forster-Tuncurry NAIDOC Community Day (7-12 July), bringing the community together on Worimi Country to celebrate Aboriginal culture through activities, speakers, and entertainment.
“I commend all the recipients for the work they are doing to build stronger, more inclusive communities across the Myall Lakes.”
