The community event included a Kabi Kabi Welcome to Country, traditional performances by Gubbi Gubbi Dance and Meriam Giz dance groups and the raising of the Aboriginal flag and the Torres Strait Islander flag.
Council is organising or supporting a total of 16 events across the Sunshine Coast as part of NAIDOC Week 2019.
The theme for this year’s NAIDOC Week is Voice, Treaty, Truth. Let’s work together for a shared future.
Voice, Treaty, Truth are the three key elements to the reforms set out in the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
These reforms represent the unified position of our First Nations Australians.
Mayor Mark Jamieson said NAIDOC Week celebrations are held annually to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of First Nations peoples.
“NAIDOC Week is celebrated not only in First Nations communities but by all Australians as we acknowledge the contributions of our Indigenous peoples to our community,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“NAIDOC Week is a great opportunity to participate in a range of activities across the Sunshine Coast.
“For the second year running, Sunshine Coast Council has produced a regional guide to NAIDOC Week events and I encourage everyone to visit council’s website and find an event that interests them.”
Community Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said all the events were family-friendly and would be enjoyed by young and old.
“I’m particularly looking forward to The Connectedness to Country, art exhibition in the ARTSPACE at Maroochydore Library at 44 Sixth Avenue, Cotton Tree as well as the region’s signature event, the NAIDOC Family Fun Day at The Esplanade, Cotton Tree, this Saturday 13 July,” Cr McKay said.
Other events include:
• The Intrust (Q) Cup Indigenous Round at Sunshine Coast Stadium, 31 Sportsman Parade, Bokarina this Sunday 14 July; and
• Storytelling at Bankfoot House, 1998 Old Gympie Road, Glasshouse Mountains this Sunday 14 July.
Cr Greg Rogerson, who delivered council’s address at the flag-raising ceremony said that NAIDOC Week is both a time for celebration and a time for reflection.
“There are many First Nations community members who have contributed significantly to their community and to our region and NAIDOC Week provides an opportunity to remember their stories,” Cr Rogerson said.
For a full list of events visit council’s website: www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.
