Published on Thursday, 14 July 2016 at 12:00:00 AM
NAIDOC Week has been a hive of activity in the Shire of Ashburton as local communities have joined in the celebrations of culture, history and achievements of Australia’s Indigenous people.
Through Songlines, the dreamtime narrative and theme of this year’s NAIDOC, residents across the Shire engaged in traditional songs, stories, dance and art; learning how Songlines connect people to Country and the Country to people.
Shire President Kerry White reiterated the importance of NAIDOC as a time to celebrate the rich history and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
“It is wonderful to see history and culture being passed down through the generations as well as to the wider community,” said Cr White. “Engaging people of all ages through a variety of activities is an important path to creating greater knowledge of customs, ceremony and Lore.”
Working in partnership with Rio Tinto and local traditional owners, the Shire hosted many activities, providing engaging opportunities to learn and experience Indigenous culture.
Traditional Welcome to Country smoking ceremonies, music and dance, damper cooking and native tasting tables attracted community participation throughout the week. Fire pits and billy tea, boomerang throwing, face painting and storytelling proved popular with children who enjoyed the fun interaction of these teachings.
Rio Tinto general manager Tom Price and Marandoo Operations Anna Wiley said NAIDOC was integral in recognising and celebrating Indigenous traditions and achievements.
“NAIDOC is about coming together and celebrating Indigenous culture. The events coordinated by the Shire of Ashburton and local Aboriginal Corporations enable the community to get involved and learn more about local Indigenous culture, hearing their stories and participating in their customs,” said Ms Wiley.
Yinhawangka Aboriginal Corporation invited Paraburdoo residents to showcase their performance flair at the NAIDOC Family Talent Quest, and in Tom Price, Aboriginal Biodiversity Corporation delivered a grass-roots traditional opening ceremony, while Gumala hosted an Indigenous Film Festival featuring a number of local Pilbara films during the closing event.
Parla Pooni led the NAIDOC Day celebrations in Pannawonica with craft and sporting activities to start the fun followed by an interactive cultural dance by regional performers Mayaga Made. The Red Ochre Band provided musical entertainment throughout the day while the crowd enjoyed a variety of food and visual arts.
NAIDOC events are made possible through support from Rio Tinto, Yinhawangka Aboriginal Corporation, Gumula, Aboriginal Biodiversity Conservation, Kuruma Marthudunera, IBN, Parla Pooni and the Pilbara Development Commission. Mission Australia, Nintirri Neighbourhood Centre, Film and Television Institute, Parla Pooni and Tom Price Cultural Centre also provided valuable assistance to ensure the success of NAIDOC week in each town.
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