COALITION GOVERNMENT SUPPORT FOR NAIDOC WEEK CELEBRATIONS IN BARKER

The Coalition Government’s support for the celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture has continued through funding for NAIDOC Week celebrations in Murray Bridge.

Member for Barker Tony Pasin MP, said that Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service Incorporated would benefit from the Australian Government’s 2018 NAIDOC Week grants round.

“The National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week is an annual celebration of the histories, rich cultures, outstanding achievements and ongoing contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” said Mr Pasin.

“I’m thrilled to be able to support the local community to hold local NAIDOC Week events, including $8,800 for the 2018 NAIDOC Ngarrindjeri celebrations in Murray Bridge.

NAIDOC Week will be held from 8 – 15 July, with the theme Because of her, we can!, which celebrates the invaluable and continuing contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.

“I encourage all members of the community to attend a local event to celebrate and learn more about the culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples celebrating the oldest continuing culture in the world.

Ngarrindjeri celebration for NAIDOC week in Murray Bridge will kick off on Sunday with a lunch provided to celebrate the collective wisdom of the Ngarrindjeri people for the Elders, where they can enjoy watching the annual football and netball games played by Ngarrindjeri men, women and youth.

On Monday, the official opening of NAIDOC week, the flags will be raised by past and present NAIDOC award winners followed by a family fun day where the community can enjoy live local Ngarrindjeri entertainment with activities and stall for everyone. Community from Mannum, Meningie, Raukkan, Victor Harbour, Goolwa and Murray Bridge attend.

Tuesday will be a day filled with Storytelling with local Ngarrindjeri elder followed by hands on arts and crafts.

The Coalition Government’s $1.4 million 2018 NAIDOC Week grants package will support a variety of events nationwide, including sporting events, cultural showcases and school activities.

“Each year Australians come together to ­celebrate the significance Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and achievements. Local events have a significant role of educating and celebrating NAIDOC week each year and I am glad the Australian Government is able to support these events.

“The Coalition has been able to deliver these wonderful local initiatives thanks to our strong economic plan for Australia and our responsible management of the budget,” Mr Pasin said.

To find out more about NAIDOC Week, visit https://www.naidoc.org.au