Clarence City Council is marking NAIDOC Week, joining communities across Tasmania and Australia to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
In a statement, the council said it “proudly joins with the Tasmanian Aboriginal People to honour their ongoing resilience, strength, and achievements.” The council also noted its participation in a celebration at Piyura kitina (Risdon Cove) on Monday, 6 July.
This year’s national theme is “50 Years of Deadly,” which commemorates five decades of the NAIDOC movement and honours the generations of Elders, community leaders, and advocates who have championed justice and recognition. The National NAIDOC Committee said the theme is a tribute to “the people who built this movement.”
NAIDOC Week runs nationally from Sunday, July 5, to Sunday, July 12.
Several events are scheduled across the wider region today, Tuesday, 7 July. In the south, the South East Tasmanian Aboriginal Corporation is hosting a community event at the Port Cygnet Cannery, featuring art workshops, yarning time, and cultural activities.
In Hobart’s northern suburbs, the Karadi Aboriginal Corporation is holding an “Amazing Race-style adventure” starting from its Goodwood location, where teams will complete cultural challenges. On the West Coast, a community morning tea is being held at the West Coast Council Chambers in Queenstown.
Other events during the week include a NAIDOC Ball and street march in Launceston hosted by the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre.
Clarence City Council stated the week is a reminder that everyone has a role to play in “working together towards a more inclusive and respectful future.” The council’s participation is guided by its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan, which commits to building respectful relationships and deepening knowledge of Tasmanian Aboriginal People.
More information on local and national events can be found on the official NAIDOC Week website and the Reconciliation Tasmania website.