NAIDOC celebrations are set to come alive on Redlands Coast in coming weeks with a rugby league match, a show-stopping concert, arts displays and community days happening across the City.
Acting Redland City Mayor Cr Lance Hewlett said it was wonderful to see the City coming together to mark NAIDOC Week, 8 – 15 July, which recognises the achievement and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
“NAIDOC Week on Redlands Coast literally kicks off a day early on Saturday 7 July, with the Intrust Super Cup Indigenous Recognition Match between Wynnum Manly Seagulls and Tweed Heads Seagulls in Dunwich, proudly supported by Council, Deadly Choices and other community partners.
“To be broadcast live by Channel 9, this match sees Wynnum Manly Seagulls transfer their home game to Ron Stark Oval on North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah to honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait cultures, particularly those of Quandamooka Country.
“I hope we see many people travelling across to Straddie to enjoy this family-friendly event.
“Community celebrations on 7 July also include the sold-out Goompi NAIDOC Gala Ball and inaugural Goompi NAIDOC Awards, a community initiative happening on Minjerribah/North Stradbroke Island.
“The following day, Sunday 8 July, sees Council host its NAIDOC Showcase featuring the amazing vocals of past The X Factor winner and Eurovision artist Isaiah Firebrace at Redland Performing Arts Centre (RPAC) in Cleveland.
“This free event begins at 12pm with family activities including weaving, storytelling, dance and craft; with the concert beginning at 2pm.
“Tickets to the concert are limited and will be on a first come basis on the day.”
In honour of the 2018 NAIDOC theme ‘Because of Her, We Can’ Redland Art Gallery and RPAC have combined to display ‘Because of Her’: Works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women from the Redland Art Gallery Collection on RPAC’s Community Art Wall.
The exhibition features works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, capturing stories, histories and teachings passed on and inspired by significant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island women.
Cr Hewlett said he also wished to acknowledge the many community groups who were holding celebrations.
“Other community-hosted events in coming weeks include the Yulu-Burri-Ba Health Redlands NAIDOC Day (10 July), Minjerribah Moorgumpin Elders in Council NAIDOC Day (14 July), the Goompi NAIDOC Community Day (20 July) and a number of Quandamooka Festival program events.
“I urge people to get involved in all these activities and show their support for this very special week of the year.”
The 2018 NAIDOC theme is ‘Because of Her, We Can’ and honours Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women’s the past and continuing significant roles and achievements at the community, local, state and national levels.
For NAIDOC celebrations around the nation visit the NAIDOC website.