During NAIDOC Week our CatholicCare Victoria teams were involved in a range of activities in our local communities across Victoria.
Take a look at what we got up to!
A cultural walk at You Yangs Regional Park
In recognition of NAIDOC Week, our Geelong Victims Assistance Program (VAP) team went to Wurdi Youang at You Yangs Regional Park, and climbed Flinders Peak!
The You Yangs Range is a place of great cultural significance to the Wathaurong Aboriginal people. The name You Yangs comes from the Aboriginal word for 'Wurdi Youang' or 'Ude Youang' meaning big mountain in the middle of the plain.
When our team returned from the climb, they took a break then went on to complete the Big Rock walk.
"It was very beautiful and I recommend it for all to experience," says Markeeta from the VAP team.
“As we walked around Big Rock there were many 'Wurlies' (Aboriginal huts or shelters). Wurlies are what my people call them, my people being of the Kaurna/Narungga nations of South Australia.”
Opening of VALS, Warrnambool
During NAIDOC Week the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service opened a new office in Warrnambool. Our staff attended the opening event and took some photos for us to share!
BDAC Children’s Day, Bendigo
Our Bendigo team manned the popcorn stand at the NAIDOC Week BDAC (Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative) Children's Day at Bendigo Showgrounds.
Approximately 1,500 bags of popcorn were popped and given out to children and their parents!
Free activities were also provided for the children, including jumping castles and a petting zoo.
BADAC Family Day, Ballarat
Our Ballarat team also manned a stand at the Ballarat and District Aboriginal Cooperative Family Day.
“The BADAC Family Day event was fantastic. We had a stall next to The Orange Door and the Police. We ran out of children's show bags, and our "Ask us a question" for a raffle ticket to win prizes was a hit!” says Jacinta, Victims Assistance Program Manager.
NAIDOC Week events in Horsham
Our Horsham team attended a NAIDOC Week opening event at Goolum Goolum, and then another event at Weir Park where a smoking ceremony and dance took place, along with a 5km walk!
A big thanks to Kaye from our Victims Assistance Program for sending through these photos.
Liz Gellel | Marketing Coordinator – Digital Lead