NAIDOC Week wrap up - The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy

During NAIDOC Week, our customers and staff came together to celebrate and honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Across our sites, we marked the occasion with vibrant events, storytelling, art, and shared meals—creating meaningful moments of connection, reflection, and pride. Check out some of the events that were attended and lots of photos below.

Seven Hills

Customers participated in an internal art competition inspired by “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy.”

They engaged in discussions about honouring Elders and preserving culture, watched videos on Aboriginal artists, and learned how to incorporate Aboriginal symbology into their artworks.

Once completed, artworks will be displayed in the office foyer with descriptions sharing the stories behind each piece.

Tamworth

Elders Long Lunch on 10 July, organised in partnership with TACCO, Population Health, and Birellee MACS. The event hosted 300 Elders, carers, and family members, with entertainment and catering.

Campbelltown

Led by Debbie and her team under DCJ-funded programs, Campbelltown supported and participated in multiple community events:

• Camden Council NAIDOC – 8 July, Oran Park Civic Precinct
• Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation NAIDOC – 17 July, Campbelltown Sports Stadium

The team also runs ongoing Aboriginal-focused programs, including Supported Playgroup, School Readiness, and a Yarning Circle group.

Taree

The Life skills program ventured out to Worimi country and joined into community activities and watched cultural dances.

Northcott Taree set up an information stall, there we had our traditional Canvas ready to paint with the community and bracelet weaving – a general favourite with all the younger generation.

Penrith

The Penrith team marked NAIDOC Week with two culturally engaging events:

Monday: A walk along the Cranebrook Bush Food Trail, exploring native plants and local culture

Tuesday: A community BBQ featuring kangaroo and crocodile tasting, organised by participants

Ballina

Participated in a NAIDOC Walk as part of honouring this year’s theme. The team spent NAIDOC Week making beanies, head scarves and scrunchies to wear at the walk.

This creative expression was inspired by the idea of how skills like knitting and crochet are passed down, much like the art of weaving. It was a simple yet powerful way to connect with the theme, reflecting continuity, culture and care across time.

Reconciliation at Northcott