NAIDOC in the City

The National Aborigines and Islander Day Observance Committee is now commonly known by most Australians as NAIDOC.

Each year in July, NAIDOC Week celebrations are held around the country to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The week is celebrated not just in our Indigenous communities, but also in increasing numbers of government agencies, schools, local councils, community organisations and workplaces.

The theme for this year’s NAIDOC Week is Serving Country: Centenary & Beyond. The theme honours all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women who have fought in defence of country.

The 2014 poster features work by Harry Alfred Pitt, a Torres Strait Islander man. Mr Pitt’s concept for the poster depicts three brothers with their land behind them and the horizon before them. Their Elders are reflected in the water, giving the brothers the strength to overcome the challenges that may lie over the horizon.

The NAIDOC website contains information on the history and recognition of Aboriginal culture in Australia, as well as ideas on how we can celebrate the week. For example, researching the traditional Indigenous owners of our area, visiting local Indigenous sites of significance, or reading a Dreamtime story.

If you’re in Sydney during NAIDOC Week, save Monday 7 July in your diary for ‘NAIDOC in the City’ at Hyde Park from 11am – 3pm.

Enjoy an afternoon experiencing the world’s oldest living culture with the whole family.

Sample food cooked in an earth oven, hear music from Marcus Corowa, Evie J, Jimblah and Horrorshow.  See traditional dance, you can even try your hand at weaving or sea shell art.

Jump on board the bicycle tour led by an Aboriginal Guide from Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, and explore some of Sydney’s most historic sites, following the NAIDOC 2014 theme ‘Serving Country’ on the way to Hyde Park. Tickets go fast and bookings are essential.

And don’t worry about the kids, the interactive kids’ zone, will keep them entertained with live native animals, stories of dreamtime, art, singing and dance workshops.

Don’t miss the Art and Culture zone, showcasing the Eora Journey with displays from the Australian Museum and Sydney Observatory and above all, just come and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, cuisine and culture whilst enjoying an afternoon in the park!

For more info on activities in Sydney you can visit sydneynaidoc.com.au or check out the 2014 local NAIDOC events calendar at www.naidoc.org.au For updates and more information, you can also follow NAIDOC week on Facebook.

6 – 13 July, many locations