NAIDOC Week celebrations build strong community connections

NAIDOC Week is a time for all Australians to recognise and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

In 2026, NAIDOC Week marks a significant milestone: 50 years. The theme, 50 Years of Deadly, recognises the strength, resilience and cultural leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and honours the generations who have contributed to this journey.

As an organisation, Northcott is committed to respecting and valuing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; supporting learning, listening and truth-telling; creating culturally safe and inclusive environments; and strengthening connections with local communities.

These strong connections were highlighted when Northcott staff and customers proudly joined the Ballina National NAIDOC Week opening celebrations and annual walk at the beginning of the week. Coming together with the local community to honour the history, culture and achievements of First Nations peoples, the group walked and rolled along River Street with pride.

It was a meaningful morning marking the beginning of a week of events recognising the continuing contributions of First Nations peoples.

On Wednesday, Northcott’s Tamworth team held their own significant cultural event in recognition of NAIDOC Week.

Aunty Amy gave the Welcome to Country and set a respectful and inclusive tone for the gathering, while Maene Trindall conducted the smoking ceremony, adding a meaningful touch to the day.

The sense of community and celebration was truly special, with customers at the centre of the unforgettable experience. Kamilaroi and Gomeroi man Greg, and his mum, Beady, raised the flag, while Anthony and his dad, Anthony Snr, cut the cake and celebrated the occasion with everyone.

Northcott Tamworth Service Manager Sharon Leonard says the event was an opportunity to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture while strengthening local community connections.

“It was an honour to come together with customers and our local community to celebrate NAIDOC Week in a meaningful and creative way,” Sharon says.

“The contributions from everyone made it an unforgettable experience, and the sense of community and celebration was truly special.”

Proud Wiradjuri man and Northcott’s First Nations Program Advisor Dylan Wilson says the 50-year anniversary of NAIDOC Week was not only a time for celebration, but also a time to reflect.

“We recognise the importance of listening, learning and walking together towards a more inclusive future,” Dylan says.

“It’s a time to celebrate how far we’ve come, but also to recommit to collaborating with First Nations peoples in supporting wellbeing, opportunity, self-determination and strong community outcomes.”

For Northcott Senior Operations Manager and proud Anaiwan woman Kelly Anderson, NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate one of the riches and oldest cultures in the world.

“It’s also an opportunity for you to listen, to learn, reflect, and a time for storytelling,” she says.

This storytelling has been shared at events across New South Wales and Queensland throughout week, with many Northcott staff and customers in attendance, including at the Kalwun Community Day on Kombumerri and Yugambeh Country.

Northcott Service Manager Dianna Michalas says she was moved by the sharings on the day.

“What I loved most was seeing and celebrating the young and new future Elders – that really hit home for me,” Dianna says.

As Northcott marks 50 Years of Deadly alongside communities across Australia, the organisation remains committed to listening, learning and walking together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples during NAIDOC Week and beyond.

Find out more about Northcott’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Connections , opens in a new window