Everyone is invited to celebrate NAIDOC week at free community-wide events across the region.
NAIDOC week runs from 6 to 13 July and this year's theme is The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy.
This year's theme celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities, and the legacy of our ancestors.
NAIDOC week is a powerful way for communities to honour and elevate Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience.
"MidCoast Council is proud to celebrate our local Aboriginal community and provide support for NAIDOC week events through the NAIDOC Grants Program," said Mayor Claire Pontin.
"It's a great opportunity for all of us to learn a bit more about our local Aboriginal culture. The Gathang people have a proud and strong history in the region and the NAIDOC events are a great way to celebrate their enduring culture."
This year is especially important as it marks the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC celebrations across Australia.
Council's NAIDOC Grants program provides $4,000 in support for community-led events to celebrate NAIDOC Week.
This year, events will be held from 10am – 2pm on Wednesday 9 July at Tobwabba Reserve Forster, Saturday 12 July at Gloucester Sports and Recreation Centre and Thursday 24 July at Tea Gardens Public School.
The Biripi Aboriginal Corporation Medical Centre will also hold a community NAIDOC event at the Purfleet football fields from 10am - 2pm on Friday 11 July.
If you're heading to the Forster or Taree events, bring along your dog or cat and Council rangers will microchip your fur baby for free.
For more details, visit MidCoast Council's Local Aboriginal Hub page: https://haveyoursay.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/local-Aboriginal-hub.
"We encourage everyone to attend a NAIDOC week community event to show your support and celebrate the people and culture of our Local Aboriginal communities," said Council's Manager Libraries, Community and Cultural Services, Alex Mills.
