Get behind NAIDOC celebrations (Northern New South Wales)

26 June 2009

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Paul Lynch has urged people in Northern New South Wales to get behind NAIDOC Week celebrations next month.

Between 6 and 10 July, Jali Local Aboriginal Land Council at Cabbage Tree Island will run a number of events including a street march and community lunch.

The Cabbage Tree Island Aboriginal community will also travel to Arakwal NAIDOC family day celebrations in Byron Bay.

Between 7 and 10 July, Coraki Primary School will celebrate this year's NAIDOC, theme of Honouring Our Elders, Nurturing Our Youth.

Tabulum Public School will mark the event on 7 July with bush tucker demonstrations, youth activities, a jumping castle, merry-go-round and Aboriginal musicians.

On 13 July, Yabur Yulgun CDEP Aboriginal Corporation will run a number of events, supported by NSW and Commonwealth governments.

Ngulingah Local Aboriginal Land Council at Cubawee will hold events throughout the month.

NAIDOC started in 1957 as the National Aborigines Day Observance Committee.

The Committee was formed with the support and co-operation of Federal and State governments, churches and major Indigenous organisations.

In 1988, the name was changed to NAIDOC - National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee - to acknowledge Torres Strait Islander people.

"NAIDOC celebrations provide an important opportunity for government to work in partnership with Aboriginal communities, demonstrating a commitment to work with young people and celebrating the contribution of elders," Mr Lynch said.

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrew Williams 0408 602 936

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