Time travel, ancient art and celebration of culture

Residents and visitors are being invited to be part of NAIDOC Week with a range of events in our region from July 7 to 14.

NAIDOC Week will celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said NAIDOC Week invited us all to listen, learn and engage in meaningful dialogue.

“The theme this year is ‘Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud',” Mayor Natoli said.

“The week highlights the importance of fostering a society where the wisdom and contributions of Indigenous peoples are valued and respected.

“The theme honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

Mayor Natoli invited the community to attend the 2024 NAIDOC Flag Raising Ceremony at the Nambour Library Forecourt.

“The ceremony will highlight the Sunshine Coast First Nations community’s significance of First Nations connection to Country, values and culture,” she said.

“Join us on Wednesday, July 10, at 10.30am for this free event.”

Find more information on Council’s website.

What you can experience this NAIDOC Week

First Nations Dyungungoo digital interactive and immersive experience
What: Using an Xbox gaming console, participants interact with the First Nations people they meet on a journey of survival prior to European settlement.
When: July 10-14
Time: 10am-3pm
Where: Bankfoot House, 1998 Old Gympie Road, Glass House Mountains
More information on Council’s Heritage website.

Self-Guided Tour – Bark Canoe and documentary
What: See the canoe built by Lyndon Davis, Brent Miller, Nathan Morgan and Kerry Jones using the traditional skills and traditions of bark canoe making. Watch the short video discussing the project’s national significance and value to the community.
When:  July 10-14
Time: 10am-3pm
Where: Landsborough Museum, 4 Maleny Street, Landsborough
More information on Council’s Heritage website.

Handmade Coolamon Workshops
What: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tradition of creating coolamon clay pots. Engage in inspiring conversations with Aunty Jude Hammond as you craft your art piece. Roll up your sleeves and get hands-on with air-dry clay, shaping and moulding your unique pot. Take home a one-of-a-kind coolamon, crafted by your own hands.
When: August 6 and August 13
Time: 11am-1.30pm
Where: Nambour and Maroochydore Libraries
Tickets: $25 per person. To buy tickets and for more information visit Council’s Libraries website.

Jinibara digital stories with Aunty Edna and Uncle Noel
What: Hear inspiring stories from local First Nations elders on the brilliant big screen at City Hall which measures a whopping 7.68 metres long x 1.08m high. The two short films are around 5 minutes in length each and will play on repeat throughout NAIDOC Week.
When: July 8-12
Time: 8.30am-4.30pm
Where: Sunshine Coast City Hall, 54 First Avenue, Maroochydore 

Wan’Diny NAIDOC Family Fun Day
Date:  Saturday, 19 October 2024
Time:  9am – 3pm
Where:  Black Swan Park Cotton Tree, The Esplanade, Maroochydore  QLD  4558
For tickets and more information visit the Wan’diny NAIDOC Facebook event for details. 

Online Sunshine Coast First Nations stories
Watch video interviews with our local First Nations people talking about their personal experiences, art, and history.

Online Sunshine Coast First Nations stories
Online map and research report about local First Nations place names. View the map online or at Libraries and Glass House Mountains Visitor Centre.

Check out Council’s website for event details, more information and a list of other NAIDOC Week activities planned across the Sunshine Coast.

Visit your local library during NAIDOC Week to collect your limited edition First Nations library card. The cards feature artwork by Kabi Kabi artists, Kane Brunjes and Amanda Pitt-Lythgoe. Discover more of the First Nations library collection with Jigsaw Puzzles – First Nations designs (assorted pieces); toys and children’s books.