People of all ages will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Indigenous traditions and learn more about the rich cultural heritage of the First Nations peoples from July 2 to July 9.
One of the highlights of the week will be the Cultural Day organised by Uncle Michael Lyons, a respected Wiradjuri Elder and owner of Sandhills Artefacts.
The event will take place on Monday, July 10, at the Tim Fischer Park in Boree Creek. Attendees can look forward to a day filled with interactive experiences, including bush tucker taste tests, captivating cultural stories, insights into intriguing artefacts, and a mesmerizing performance by a master didgeridoo musician.
For those with a creative flair, Many Mobs Indigenous Corporation is hosting weaving workshops where participants aged 8 and above can learn the art of weaving and create their own unique handmade objects.
The Oaklands Weaving Workshop will take place on Monday, July 3, while the Howlong Weaving Workshop will be held on Wednesday, July 5.
These sessions provide a fantastic opportunity to learn versatile weaving skills and techniques directly from skilled Indigenous artisans.
Federation Council Libraries will also be joining in the NAIDOC Week celebrations by hosting Storytime sessions and craft activities inspired by First Nations culture.
Aimed at children and young adults aged 5-15, these engaging activities will take place at various libraries throughout the region.
Participants will have the chance to decorate their own NAIDOC-themed projects to take home and cherish as a reminder of the cultural exchange experienced during the week.
The Mulwala Library will hold activities on Tuesday, July 4, followed by sessions at the Urana Council Office on Wednesday, July 5, and the Corowa Library and Howlong Library on Thursday, July 6.
Art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty and creativity of Contemporary Aboriginal artworks at the Currawa Crossing exhibition, exclusively showcased at the Corowa Art Space throughout NAIDOC Week.
This exhibition features vibrant and expressive works by renowned artists such as Owen Lyons, Elijah Ingram, and Sonia Undy. The artworks on display incorporate a blend of traditional and modern techniques, including weaving, dot painting, and abstractionism.
Federation Council Mayor Pat Bourke, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming events, emphasising the importance of cultural exchange and understanding.
He encouraged community members to take advantage of these free family-friendly activities and engage with the Bangerang and Wiradjuri peoples' deep connection to the land, waters, and community.
“The sharing of knowledge and skills is invaluable in understanding and acknowledging the Bangerang and Wiradjuri people's connection to the land, waters, and community in which we live,” he said.
Bookings for the Cultural Day and Weaving Workshops are essential. Limited places available. Register your interest in attending a workshop from Federation Council's website.
Entry to Currawa Crossing is free. Open Wednesday - Friday 10 am - 4 pm, Saturday & Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm. Those interested in attending library activities can email corowa.library@federationcouncil.nsw.gov.au or call 02 6033 8941 to enquire.
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