NAIDOC week is about family and community

The annual celebration of indigenous culture is coming up in the Maranoa, and all are welcome to attend the local events.

PRIDE: Stephen Brown, Angie Klein of Mandandanji Limited, Marie Kelly and Jessica Walsh of Surat Aboriginal Corporation. Picture: Jorja McDonnell

WHEN Jessica Walsh looks up at the rising Indigenous flag at the opening of NAIDOC week, she will be reminded of her mum, who has instilled in her an immense sense of pride in being part of the oldest known culture in the world.

"For me, NAIDOC week is all about the next generation,” she said.

"My mum raised me to be very proud, and excited to be an aboriginal woman, and I want that culture to be passed down for my kids.

"They're also very proud to be indigenous and a part of the community, and they are very excited about NAIDOC Week.

"They love doing the music, dance, arts, and celebrating what our culture offers.”

Ms Walsh has been instrumental in organising NAIDOC Week activities around the region, and will be sharing her family history with the community in Surat.

"I'll be leading a tour through the Mundy-Cleven Camp for people who would like to go and see it,” Ms Walsh said.

"My family is connected to the Mundy site, and it has our whole family tree there, so it is all about our connection back to family history.”

Alongside SAC, countless local groups are joining in with NAIDOC Week activities, in an effort to promote the theme of Voice, Treaty, Truth.

"Everyone in our communities are welcome,” Catholic Care Indigenous support worker Tony Collins said.

"We have all of the different agencies around Roma who are part of it.”

NAIDOC Week in the Maranoa:

Monday, July 8 - Flag raising, 10am-noon, Roma Cultural Centre.

Tuesday, July 9 - Cultural games day, 8am-2pm, Roma PCYC.

Wednesday, July 10 - Community morning tea, 10am, 59 Arthur St Roma.

Thursday, July 11 - Surat cultural sights tour, 10am, Surat River Walk.

Originally published as NAIDOC week is about family and community