First Nations art projections on City Hall return as the City of Greater Geelong celebrates NAIDOC Week this week.
As per Reconciliation Week, residents can catch the vibrant and colourful First Nations artwork on display nightly from 6pm to 11pm until July 10.
In addition, a National Wool Museum visual art exhibition and a presence at Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative’s Community Day are both part of Greater Geelong celebrations for NAIDOC Week from July 3 to 10.
The National Wool Museum visual art exhibition will feature the Wadawurrung Dja Exhibition, comprising the work of proud Wadawurrung woman, emerging elder, cultural educator and award-winning visual artist Dr Deanne Gilson.
Dr Gilson works primarily in clay, painting, digital imagery and fabric design.
The City of Greater Geelong will have a stall at Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative’s Flag Raising and Community Day as part of NAIDOC Week.
The Monday 4 July celebration runs from 11am until 3pm.
Greater Geelong Mayor Peter Murrihy encouraged all residents to consider taking part in the events on offer.
“NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for people throughout the Geelong community to learn more about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth,” Mayor Murrihy said.
“More specifically, these local events will allow residents to better get to know our region’s First Nations communities and celebrate the rich contribution they make to our region.”
Cr Sarah Mansfield, Deputy Chair of the Aboriginal Affairs portfolio agreed that the events are cause for celebration.
“The council is a proud partner of our First Nation communities, and we embrace the NAIDOC Week celebrations of ‘Get Up, Stand Up, Show Up’,” Cr Mansfield said.
“As a City we are committed to walking with our First Nations families and communities in Greater Geelong.
“While support of these events will be both informative and educational, attendance will also tell our First Nations communities just how much we value their contribution to our region.”
Residents can also go online at geelongaustralia.com.au/naidocweek to:
Watch a NAIDOC Week message from Greater Geelong Mayor Peter Murrihy;
Learn about the history behind NAIDOC Week;
Understand the story behind the NAIDOC Week digital projections; and
Explore the NAIDOC Week online trail outlining 20 key Aboriginal sites and venues around the Greater Geelong region.
