Award-winning author and illustrator Dub Leffler will bring culture to life through hands-on experiences as part of City of Newcastle's 2026 NAIDOC Week celebrations.
The Bigambul man, recognised internationally for his books and artwork, will host an all-ages drawing workshop at Newcastle City Library, offering a rare opportunity to learn directly from a nationally renowned First Nations storyteller.
Councillor Deahnna Richardson, proud Wiradjuri woman and co-chairperson of City of Newcastle's Guraki Standing Committee, said this year's program reflects the theme "50 years of Deadly" through creativity, connection and community participation across a diverse line-up of events.
"NAIDOC Week is an important opportunity for our community to celebrate and recognise the history and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," Cr Richardson said.
"Through free and low-cost workshops, performances and community events, we are creating meaningful opportunities for people of all ages to learn, connect and engage with culture in a genuine and respectful way.
"Having artists like Dub Leffler involved provides a powerful way for young people and families to experience storytelling and cultural expression firsthand."
NAIDOC Week art workshops at Newcastle Art Gallery will be inspired by the printmaking techniques of Torres Strait Islander artist Brian Robinson, who stands inside his digital installation 'Zugubal: The winds and the tides set the pace' 2023/26, five channel digital video, sound, 5:00 mins. Commissioned by RISING, Melbourne 2023. Collection of the artist and S1T2, Sydney. Photo: Peter StoopThe workshop on Wednesday 8 July will see participants explore illustration through guided drawing, led by the acclaimed artist who has illustrated more than 30 children's books, including The Children's Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Sorry Day.
The focus on shared creative experiences extends across the broader NAIDOC Week program, including library events such as natural art and silent disco sessions led by Uncle Amos Simon, where participants create artworks using natural materials while learning traditional practices and enjoying music by First Nations artists.
Families can also take part in NAIDOC-themed beading workshops at Wallsend Library, creating jewellery inspired by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, and reflect on the 50 years of Deadly theme.
Newcastle Art Gallery will deliver LEGO printmaking workshops inspired by Torres Strait Islander artist Brian Robinson's Multiverse exhibition, alongside free studio weekend sessions guiding families through accessible art-making activities focused on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.
School students stand in front of an artwork by Torres Strait Islander artist Brian Robinson, which is part of his exhibition Multiverse at Newcastle Art Gallery. Brian Robinson, Across the gulf of space 2024 (detail), enamel spray paint and synthetic polymer paint on polyvinyl chloride foam board, found objects. Courtesy of the artist and Mossenson Galleries, Perth. Photo: Jed Cranfield (Half Sun Social)Supported by City of Newcastle, the Awabakal Newcastle NAIDOC march and festival returns on Monday 6 July, marking more than 20 years of community celebration.
Beginning with a flag-raising ceremony at Civic Park from 9am, the march will make its way to Foreshore Park, where a full-day festival features live music, traditional dance, cultural activities, food stalls and rides.
Community Elders Uncle Raymond and Aunty Sheryl will deliver a Welcome to Country, alongside performances from Winanga-y Dreaming, Gabinya Miyaya, Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam, Midnight Dreaming and Naisda Performing Arts, supported by a strong line-up of local First Nations musicians.
NAIDOC Week runs nationally from 5 - 12 July, recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Visit the City of Newcastle website to find out more about the NAIDOC Week events.
