NAIDOC celebrations across the district

NAIDOC events were celebrated across the district with flag raising ceremonies, Welcome to Country by Aboriginal Elders and dancing or performances at Blacktown, Mount Druitt and Westmead hospitals.

WSLHD Aboriginal Health Services manager Belinda Cashman said these celebrations are a unifying and special time for everyone.

“The Westmead Redevelopment project team held a colouring-in event where staff coloured an early version of artist Leanne Tobin’s Dance of the Dragonflies and held the Skies of Aboriginal Australia event where Astronomer Professor Ray Norris shared knowledge that Aboriginal people have shared with him on the sun, stars and the moon.

“Westmead Hospital Aboriginal Liaison officer Narelle Holden organised a traditional flag raising ceremony with a Welcome to Country performed by Aboriginal Elder Uncle Greg Simms as well as traditional performances.”

At Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals the NAIDOC celebrations were attended by many staff, patients and community members – Indigenous and non-Indigenous.  At Mount Druitt Hospital The Mount Druitt Indigenous Children’s Choir performed and engaged with those present.  Aunty Glenda Simon spoke on the history of NAIDOC and of the importance of this year’s theme.

Everyone is invited to a special screening of “Occupation: Native” as part of our NAIDOC celebrations.

Your hosts are Aboriginal training coordinator Kristy Kendrigan and Workforce Development Program manger Noel Posus.   Kristy speaks about NAIDOC and the screening on this short video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbruCZWyVU4&feature=youtu.be

The sessions are on 18 July 4-6pm WECC WMH and 20 July 4 -6pm WECC WMH

Please RSVP to Vesna.Sopin@health.nsw.gov.au