NAIDOC’s theme this year is a rallying call to all First Nation people to Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up!
The origins of the theme are based on First Nation People having a history of getting up, standing up and showing up.
From the earliest resistance fighters when Europeans first landed on the shores of this continent, through to members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities fighting for change today—First Nation people continue to show up.
In his speech at the Opening and Flag Raising ceremony, Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said this year’s celebrations were about moving beyond just acknowledgement, good intentions, and promises.
“It’s about walking the walk and not talking the talk.
“Whether it is seeking proper environmental, cultural and heritage protections, Constitutional change, a comprehensive process of truth-telling, working towards treaties, or calling out racism”, the Mayor said “we must do it together.”
“There must be a genuine commitment by us all to Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! and support and secure institutional, structural, collaborative, and cooperative reforms.”
“I encourage everyone in the community to get involved in celebrating this important week and recognising the history, culture and achievements of our First Nations people.
“There is so much to celebrate, recognise and embrace around our First Nations People and culture. Let’s continue this journey together and let us all get involved in NAIDOC Week 2022.”
NAIDOC PROGRAM
Tuesday 12 July 2022
Goobidi Bamanga Organisation, is again hosting a baby show at its playgroup centre located at 7 Johnston Road, Mossman at 10am. The baby show has been an annual NAIDOC Event which brings families together for a day of fun KarraKay-Karrakay (children).
Netball Fast Five is an annual favourite of NAIDOC week. This year ten teams will play off for a cash prize at the Port Douglas Sport Complex on Wharf Street – 4pm to 9pm. There are five players a side, quarters are shorter, power plays, and two and three points are up for grabs when shots are taken outside the goal circle. It’s an exciting game, made even better with music on the night. All are welcome and there’s food available to purchase.
Wednesday 13 July 2022
Mossman Gorge Gateway Markets, Mossman Gorge Centre – 10am – 2pm. Members of Yalanji Arts and other local First Nation people have locally made and unique art and gifts on display and available for sale.
Thursday 14 July 2022
The annual Elders Lunch will be held at the Mossman Shire Hall in Mill Street, 12pm to 3pm. A Traditional Kurma (ground oven) will be prepared for Elders to enjoy a hot, healthy meal accompanied by cultural entertainment.
Friday 15 July 2022
Every year local school students and community groups wrap up the week of activities with the Street Parade starting at 10am at Douglas Shire Council. Front Street is closed and the parade ends at Bubu Kinkari, or George Davis Park just north town for NAIDOC in the Park – with activites for the whole family until 1:30pm.
