Community
31 July, 2024
NAIDOC week’s ‘loud and proud’ parade
Another successful NAIDOC Week was celebrated across the nation recently and there was no better place to observe this inspiring event than in Mossman.
The title and theme for this year was ‘Keep the fire blak, loud, proud’ and certainly great pride was taken in a number of events in Mossman last week. Apart from the kids, the occasion was well supported by parents and school staff members, together with both locals and tourists enjoying the fun.
NAIDOC has been observed as a week-long event since 1975 and each year has a different topic. It celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and is observed, not just in Indigenous Australian communities, but also in increasing numbers of schools, local councils and workplaces.
I was one of many that lined Front St in Mossman to enjoy the street parade on July 19, the grand finale of what had been a packed week of events. Many then ventured to a family fun day held at Bubu Kinkari or George Davis Park and finally the day culminated in a disco night at the shire hall.
Other events through the week included a baby show by the Goobidi Bamanga organisation, which is aimed at bringing families together for a day of fun.
Midweek saw the Mossman Gorge Gateway Markets, which included Yalanji Arts and other items that local First Nation People had locally made. The unique art and gifts were on display for everyone to appreciate and available for sale for those wanting their own traditional piece of Far North Queensland culture.
One key event was the annual elders’ lunch, held at the Mossman Shire Hall, with a traditional kurma (ground oven) and cultural entertainment.
Overall, the week was a successful and inspiring event. Then add the Douglas Shire Show weekend, which followed NAIDOC, one can certainly say it has been a fun time.
