Every year, Council acknowledges NAIDOC Week as an important time for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal community members, and a time marked by opportunities to learn about and celebrate culture. This year, NAIDOC Week runs from Sunday 4 July to Sunday 11 July.
This year, Council is also partnering with Pacific Epping shopping centre to share some traditional creation stories from Wurundjeri Elder, Ian Hunter. The stories are currently being screened on loop in the event space at Pacific Epping, and will continue until 31 July.
Council is also encouraging residents to take a COVID-safe, self-guided tour to experience sacred 'scarred trees' and sites first-hand through the Keelbundoorah Scarred Tree Heritage Trail tour. Click here to access the self-guided tour resource.
"NAIDOC Week is an important time for everyone to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," Chair Administrator Ms Lydia Wilson said.
"We have one of the largest, and fastest growing, Aboriginal communities in metropolitan Melbourne living in the City of Whittlesea. We encourage our community to acknowledge and celebrate NAIDOC Week by participating in events that acknowledge our Aboriginal people."
Gunditjmara man and Manager Aboriginal & Cultural Diversity at Council, Andrew Morrison, sees NAIDOC Week as an important reminder of the need to keep protecting land, water, sacred sites and cultural heritage, and to listen to the voices of Aboriginal people.
"This year's theme, 'Heal Country, heal our nation', reminds us all that for generations Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have been calling for stronger measures to recognise, protect, and maintain all aspects of our culture and heritage for all Australians."
