Celebrating NAIDOC Week across our District

For Our Elders was the theme for NAIDOC Week this year, celebrated from 2 to 9 July. Across the District, staff and consumers came together with family and friends to honour the Elders of the past, learn from the Elders of today, and encourage the Elders of tomorrow.

Elders play a crucial role in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are our colleagues, consumers, neighbours, family, and friends. Elders also provide a unique insight into the past, which is crucial to planning the future of culturally responsive healthcare.

Events were held across all our facilities and included cultural ceremonies, song and dance, cultural activities and, most importantly, yarning.

All staff had the opportunity to hear stories from local Elders, ask questions, and learn how we can walk together to create a healthcare system that addresses the needs of the whole community.

One of the highlights of these celebrations was seeing children participate in our events. When asked what they enjoy the most about NAIDOC Week one young person, aged 10, said: “I like listening to the Aunts and Uncles tell their stories. It makes me feel strong and brave to follow in their footsteps.”

We encourage you all to reflect on your experiences with our Elders this week, thinking about how you too can be brave and strong for our community, and pay tribute to those who have walked the path before you.