NAIDOC Week returned to Benalla last Tuesday, as the community gathered to celebrate and honour the rich history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
At 10.30am, the Flag Raising Ceremony took place at the Benalla Civic Centre on Mair Street. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags were raised against the cloudy winter sky, emphasising unity and the enduring connection to country.
At 11am, the celebration shifted to the Benalla Lakeside Community Centre, drawing in a diverse crowd of 250 attendees. The atmosphere buzzed as attendees immersed themselves in a range of cultural activities.
Local Aboriginal artist Aunty Cheryl Cooper's artwork, infused with symbolism and storytelling, was officially unveiled, reinforcing the importance of reconciliation in preserving First Nations heritage.
Local organisations including Benalla Rural City Council, Benalla Health, Winton Wetlands, the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency, Thales, Tomorrow Today Foundation, Benalla Art Gallery, Benalla Library and the Victorian Police showcased their programs and initiatives. Visitors engaged in conversations about reconciliation, health, education, and community development.
Benalla Rural City Mayor Cr Danny Claridge expressed gratitude for the community's support. "NAIDOC Week is a time to learn, listen, and celebrate," he said. "Our shared commitment to reconciliation strengthens our community and it is great to see this event go from strength to strength."
Jacqueline Kelly, CEO of Benalla Health, added, "NAIDOC Week this year focuses on connection to country and to each other and it was wonderful to see such a huge turnout at this year's event with so many engaging activities encouraging everyone who attended to get involved and celebrate collectively."
NAIDOC Week in Benalla was organised by the Benalla Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group, with support from the Benalla Social Inclusion Action Group, Benalla Health, Benalla Rural City Council and the First People's Assembly of Victoria - Treaty for Victoria.
