We value the vision success

NAIDOC festivities spanned across the region last week with patrons in full swing celebrating one of the most important events on the indigenous calendar.

The week aims to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

This year’s theme — We value the vision: Yirrkala Bark Petitions 1963 — celebrates the 50th anniversary of the presentation of the Yirrkala bark petitions to Federal Parliament.

The petitions were the first traditional documents recognised by the Commonwealth Parliament and helped to shape the nation’s acknowledgment of Aboriginal people and their land rights.

Volunteers around the region geared into action, holding events in Kununurra, Wyndham and Halls Creek.

Kununurra’s opening NAIDOC cocktail party drew local bands and a cheerful crowd.

Elders and families held a cookup last Monday night, as well as an art and culture night the next day, before the junior ball capped off celebrations in Kununurra for the young movers and shakers.

Halls Creek launched its opening ceremony with a celebratory march, featuring traditional dance and stories from elders in the afternoon.

An exhibition at Yarliyil Art Centre, film night, junior ball, children’s cultural day and elder’s morning tea were just some of the events held in town.

Participants were also able to attend a movie-making workshop focusing on the Kimberley region.

A family barbecue in Wyndham last Friday was hoped to be the first of more NAIDOC events held this month.