In celebration of National NAIDOC Week, Ararat Rural City will host several events throughout the month of July, also coinciding with Council's Winter School Holiday Program.
Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony at Ararat Gallery TAMA
The community are invited to a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony conducted by proud Gunditjmara - Kirrae Wurrong man, and highly regarded yidaki (didgeridoo) player and cultural performer, Paul PK Kelly. Afterwards, attendees are invited to an afternoon tea in the Gallery's Studio.
When: Monday 7 July 2025, from 2pm - 3pm
Where: Ararat Gallery TAMA courtyard. Entry is via 82 Vincent Street, Ararat.
This event is free, with bookings requested via Ararat Gallery TAMA's website to help plan catering.
NAIDOC Week Inspired Activities at Ararat Gallery TAMA
Families are invited to the Gallery's art studio for some creative fun where various craft activities will be set up to explore. Children will have the opportunity to get hands on with painting, drawing, collage, construction & textile craft!
When: Thursday 10 July, from 10am - 12.30pm
Where: Ararat Gallery TAMA Studio. Entry is via 82 Vincent Street, Ararat.
The event is free and suitable for all ages. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. No bookings are required.
Winter School Holiday Sessions with Artist Brett Clarke
Join Brett Clarke (aka Boorook), Keerray Wooroong artist, cultural custodian and storyteller, at the Gallery for an engaging cultural experience through art, music, and dance. Children will connect with Country and spirit by exploring traditional creation stories, participating in animal creation dances, and learning about songlines and cultural tools.
When: Tuesday 15 July, from 11.30am - 2pm
Where: Ararat Gallery TAMA Studio. Entry is via 82 Vincent Street, Ararat.
Suitable for ages 5 - 12. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Free entry, with bookings required via the Gallery's website.
NAIDOC Week Craft at the Ararat Library
Ararat Library will be running a NAIDOC Week inspired craft activity as part of Council's Winter School Holiday Program. Children will have the opportunity to create their own Rainbow Serpent using cardboard and acrylic paints.
When: Friday 11 July, from 2pm - 3pm
Where: Ararat Library, Cnr Barkly &, Queen St, Ararat VIC 3377
The event is free and suitable for all ages. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. No bookings are required
"National NAIDOC Week marks an important time to acknowledge the significant contributions of First Nations peoples," says Ararat Rural City CEO, Dr Tim Harrison.
"Council is proud to host events during NAIDOC Week as an opportunity for learning and reflection. We recognise the importance of celebrating and respecting the stories and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across our community, and we invite everyone to take part."
About National NAIDOC Week
National NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia in the first week of July each year (Sunday to Sunday), to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It serves as an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the world's oldest, continuous living cultures.
National NAIDOC Week celebrations this year mark 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience. This year's theme, "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy," 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.
