Celebrate the City of Gosnells rich First Nations culture during NAIDOC Week

Admire local Aboriginal art, join a hands-on painting workshop or become immersed in traditional songs and storytelling during a colourful line up of free events hosted by the City of Gosnells to celebrate NAIDOC Week.

This year’s theme ‘Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud’ pays homage to the strength and vitality of First Nations cultures.

“NAIDOC Week is more than just celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures – it is also about encouraging non-Aboriginal Australians to build a deeper understanding through listening to the stories, voices and experiences of First Nations peoples,” Mayor Terresa Lynes said.

“This year’s theme reminds all of us of the importance to continue amplifying the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, while also respecting and acknowledging their cultural heritage which is so deeply rooted in our local community.”

To kick off the week-long celebrations, the City will host a flag-raising ceremony on Monday 8 July at the Civic Centre, which will include cultural performances by the Wadumbah Aboriginal Dance Group and a light community lunch, followed by the opening of the popular NAIDOC Week Art Exhibition.

Open to the public on weekdays from Tuesday 9 July to Friday 19 July, this year’s exhibition sees the return of renowned local Aboriginal artists alongside up-and-coming artists who are also given the opportunity to share their artwork.

“In addition to the City’s fantastic lineup of events, we look forward to showcasing incredible artwork by local Aboriginal artists in this year’s NAIDOC Week Art Exhibition, which is very popular with the local community,” Mayor Lynes said.

“Whether you want to engage and learn more about local First Nations cultures, or simply observe and honour what it has to offer, I encourage both local Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people to come along to these events.”

From yarning tales and acrylic painting to leaf printing and bush flower essence workshops, the City will host a diverse range of NAIDOC Week events which aim to engage, educate and celebrate First Nations cultures in the local community.

Bookings are essential for all events and activities, with the exception of the art and cultural exhibitions and Twilight Tales sessions.