NAIDOC Week unites Hedland community for a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture

The streets were full of dancing, singing and art in Port Hedland during NAIDOC week as the north west town celebrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. Throughout the week numerous events were put on by Port Hedland’s multiple Aboriginal Corporations in partnership with local businesses. On Sunday the celebrations began with the 2023 NAIDOC opening concert at the South Hedland Town Square, which was a collaborative event run by Hedland Aboriginal Strong Leaders and the Julyardi Aboriginal Corporation. The event contained a NAIDOC awards ceremony that recognised the achievements and contributions of Indigenous members of the Port Hedland community. Director of the Julyardi Aboriginal Corporation, Maureen Kelly, said the performances at the opening ceremony highlighted NAIDOC’s 2023 theme, For our Elders. “Participating in the vibrant array of cultures, as they presented dances and songs alongside their revered Elders to share with our Elders, evoked profound emotions within me,” she said. “This collective display truly embodies the authentic spirit that unites our community. “Notably, the presence of children being nurtured and guided by their Elders adds an extra layer of significance, highlighting the intergenerational bond and the passing down of traditions.” The awards ceremony recognised contributions in culture, sport and artistry, as well as efforts by youth and Indigenous Elders. Clarrie Robinson and Raylene Button won the Elder awards at the ceremony. Ms Button is a Kariyarra Elder, co-chair at Hedland Aboriginal Strong Leaders, and a director at the Julyardi Aboriginal Corporation. She said that the opening ceremony was a showcase of culture and reconciliation. “The opening of NAIDOC Week 2023, themed For Our Elders, took place on Sunday, July 2nd, at the Town Square, and it proved to be an incredibly touching and extraordinary event,’ she said. “This remarkable gathering truly showcased the essence of culture, emphasised the importance of reconciliation through representation and paid sincere tribute to our Elders.” Ms Button’s award recognised her efforts as a driving force for change and her promotion of community opinion. She said the collaboration between young and old during the event showed the harmony that existed in Port Hedland. “The active participation of our children, as they wholeheartedly engaged, enjoyed, and performed to honour the diverse cultures of the Elders of our community, brought about a profound sense of hope, joy, and upliftment for our Elders,” she said. “It was heartwarming to witness the Hedland community uniting and enjoying the entirety of the evening’s festivities, strengthening the bonds that tie us together.” Another Julyardi Aboriginal Corporation director, Alfred Baker, said the event exceeded his expectations. “The experience was nothing short of magical,” he said, “every minute was a source of pure enjoyment, captivating my senses. “As An Elder, I believe that served as a remarkable platform for our community to come together in unity and harmony.” The celebration did not stop on Sunday, with events that showcased Indigenous culture taking place throughout the week. On Tuesday kids at the JD Hardie Youth Hub enjoyed a printmaking session with local artist Ruby Djikarra. Mayor Peter Carter, who was in attendance, said the NAIDOC week events provided entertainment and education for children during school holidays. “I’m looking forward to getting my hands dirty because there’s a bit of painting going on so I hope I’ve got the right clothes for it,” he said. “Hopefully the kids won’t throw paint on me but it’s good, we’ve got 20-odd kids here, which is good to keep the kids busy.” Cr Carter said the Town was proud to sponsor NAIDOC week activities as they provided an opportunity for people to learn about Indigenous culture. “NAIDOC Week offers everyone a chance to learn more about First Nations cultures and histories and connect with community at a range of NAIDOC events and activities,” he said. “These events highlight the importance of getting together to acknowledge and celebrate the cultural significance and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. “We’re looking forward to NAIDOC Week in Hedland, a time to celebrate the culture of the Kariyarra, Ngarla and Nyamal peoples, as well as all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities across Australia.” “The Town has collaborated with local groups to create an extensive calendar of NAIDOC Week events — I would like to thank these organisations for contributing to such an important celebration for our community.” Port Hedland’s NAIDOC celebrations were not just restricted to the town either, as the efforts of many community members were recognised at a higher level. Famous artist Bobby Lockyer, who was born and raised in Kariyarra Country in Port Hedland, was named as the winner of the National NAIDOC Week poster competition. Port Hedland’s NAIDOC Week celebrations will end with a Wirraka Maya Community Event on Friday.