People of all ages came together across the Council to celebrate Indigenous culture and learn ancient crafting techniques.
The free school holiday workshops gave local families, and community members a hands-on way to connect with Aboriginal culture and storytelling. This year's events were extra special, marking the 50th anniversary of National NAIDOC Week under the theme "50 Years of Deadly."
Council was very proud to welcome respected knowledge holder and Many Mobs CEO Aunty Iris Troutman, who led the sessions with the help of her nieces, Laneequah and Jade Hooper.
Under their patient guidance, participants learned how to weave using traditional techniques making a small basket. The workshops were much more than just a craft lesson, they gave the community a friendly space to talk, listen, and learn about Aboriginal history and culture together.
The workshop tour started at the Corowa Civic Centre on Tuesday 7 July, before moving to the Mulwala Hall for a bustling morning session on Wednesday 8 July. The final workshop wrapped up at the Rand School of Arts Hall on Thursday 9 July. The excitement continued into Friday 10 July at the Howlong Library, where community members celebrated NAIDOC Week with a special Indigenous Storytime and a fun cardboard boomerang-making activity.
Federation Council Mayor Cheryl Cook said she was delighted to see so many people take part. "We are grateful to Aunty Iris, Jade, and Laneequah for generously sharing their culture with us," Mayor Cook said. "Seeing our community spaces filled with children, families, and residents of all backgrounds learning and creating together was a fantastic way to honour 50 years of NAIDOC Week. It was wonderful that everyone could take home a beautiful, self-made woven piece alongside a deeper understanding of First Nations heritage."
Council also extended its sincere thanks to Wiradyuri artist, filmmaker, and cultural advocate Elijah Ingram. In partnership with Council, Ingram presented his photography exhibition, Where I Was To Where I Am, at the Corowa Art Space from Reconciliation Week through to NAIDOC Week.
Many Mobs will continue to celebrate NAIDOC Week with their annual Cultural Connections Day Bridge Walk on 17th July.
This year, our General Manager, Adrian Butler, Councillors David Harrison and Susan Wearne and Amber Harvey, Team Leader Community Development will be participating in the walk as part of our ongoing commitment to building strong community relationships and relaunching our Reconciliation Action Plan.
Held annually, this highly anticipated free event celebrates Indigenous culture. It will commence near Miss Ross Hill in Mulwala at 10:15 am, making its way across the bridge for an inspiring day of cultural activities and knowledge sharing.
Federation Council thanks everyone who came along and helped make these events a great success.
