NAIDOC Week (6-13 July 2025) is a time to reflect, learn, and celebrate the rich history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. For Bayside, it's a chance to walk the path of reconciliation, together.
This year's national theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, celebrates 50 years of NAIDOC Week. It highlights the enduring strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, honouring the legacy of Elders and inspiring future generations.
Proud Torres Strait Islander and co-chair of Bayside's Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Advisory Committee Josh Toscano, said the week is about creating stronger connections and recognising Indigenous culture.
"NAIDOC Week gives us the opportunity to share Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander history with the broader community," Josh said.
"When we create better understanding, we create stronger connections."
NAIDOC Week celebrations in Bayside include a free community film screening at Palace Cinemas and storytelling sessions in our libraries.
These events follow Reconciliation Week (27 May-3 June) where Bayside marked 30 years of raising the Aboriginal flag and celebrated the eighth annual Ellen José Student Reconciliation Awards.
The awards honour Josh's mother, Torres Strait Islander Elder Ellen José (1951-2017), a pioneer of Australia's urban Indigenous art movement and a passionate social justice advocate.
Open to Bayside students, the awards promote reconciliation through creative writing and art. Works are on display at Bayside's Corporate Centre in Sandringham until 25 July.
"Indigenous Australians have contributed so much to this country especially our knowledge of land, nature, and healing," Josh said.
"For true reconciliation, we must understand our shared history began over 60,000 years ago."
"I would encourage everyone to come to an event, ask questions and be open to learning."
