The Queensland Police Service (QPS) held a special flag raising event and cultural performance at Police Headquarters in Brisbane in recognition of National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, a significant milestone in celebrating the history, culture, and achievements of First Nations peoples.
QPS Commissioner Steve Gollschewski was joined by Elders and key community members to highlight the importance of the week and to reflect on the theme: "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak,Loud and Proud."
The ceremony commenced with a Welcome to Country, the resonant sounds of the Didgeridoo/Yidaki and was followed by a powerful cultural performance. These elements showcased the richness of the world's longest-living culture, connecting all attendees to the spiritual and cultural heritage of First Nations peoples.
Commissioner Steve Gollschewski reflected on the profound significance of the week and said the theme is more than just words.
"This year's theme is a powerful celebration of First Nations' identity, and a call to embrace and honour the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," said Commissioner Gollschewski.
"Today's flag raising ceremony represents our First Nations peoples and their ancestors, who are spiritually and culturally connected to the land. This is an opportunity to consider our shared history, acknowledge the past, and commit to a future of equality and respect."
Mr Alan Dewis a proud Torres Strait Islander and the inaugural Executive Director of the First Nations Division, reiterated the Service's commitment to improving relationships through the Reframing of the Relationship Plan. The plan was officially launched in May 2024 and focuses on fostering stronger connections and mutual understanding between the Service and First Nations communities.
"NAIDOC Week builds on our commitment of empowering our people, enhancing cultural capability, and continuing to promote positive change in our organisation. The plan builds on the Queensland Government's Reconciliation Action Plan and outlines eight guiding principles that the QPS pledged to make continual improvements in our cultural and procedural processes through collaboration with First Nations communities," said Mr Dewis.
The ceremony featured the raising of the flags by two remarkable First Nations women: Aunty Rose Elu and Aunty Leanne Currie. Aunty Rose Elu, a proud Torres Strait Islander and advocate for her communities, has an impressive array of achievements, including being named the 2021 Queensland Senior Australian of the Year. Her dedication to climate change and her extensive academic background, including a PhD in Customary Law, make her a revered figure.
Aunty Leanne Currie, a proud Aboriginal woman from the Butchulla Tribe of K'Gari, has dedicated over 26 years to the QPS. Her contributions extend beyond her policing career, having previously taught First Nations young women typing skills through the "Girls from the Bush" program, enhancing their employment prospects.
As NAIDOC Week celebrates it's 50 years, it is essential to reflect on the progress made and the journey ahead. The QPS's pledge to fostering stronger relationships with First Nations communities serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for everyone to embrace diversity, promote equality, and keep the fire burning for future generations.
