Bellingen Shire Celebrates 50 years of NAIDOC Week
Published on 30 June 2025
NAIDOC Week 2025 will be marked with several activities across the Bellingen Shire throughout July, all supported by Bellingen Shire Council.
Mayor Cr. Steve Allan acknowledged the importance of NAIDOC Week as a time to honour the strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“As we mark 50 years of celebrating NAIDOC Week, this year’s theme ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’ celebrates the leaders of tomorrow, grounded in the wisdom of generations past,” said Mayor Allan.
“Council is proud to support these important community-led events that strengthen culture, connection and a shared vision for the future.”
Galangga Biindarray Indigenous Corporation is proud to present two community events in Urunga on 12 July and Mylestom on 19 July, celebrating Indigenous culture, heritage, and connection to Country, in partnership with the Neighbourhood Centres of the Bellingen Shire.
Both events will feature culturally significant activities including a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, Yarning Circle sessions facilitated by Elders, traditional storytelling, and engaging arts activities such as face painting and air-dry clay moulding.
Traditional bush foods like kangaroo stew and damper with morning tea will be provided to encourage community participation and cultural sharing.
The Dorrigo Plateau Local Aboriginal Lands Council will be working with all schools on the Plateau to deliver the Dorrigo Plateau Schools NAIDOC event. This event brings together all schools on the plateau, from preschool to high school, with age-appropriate workshops featuring Indigenous food, music, dance, and art.
Taking place at the start of Term 3 on Wednesday 30 July, this year’s event will also feature an artwork competition to select designs to feature on the bridge panels on the new Bielsdown River Footbridge - the pedestrian bridge connecting Dorrigo High School and the Recreation Reserve.
The three Bellingen Shire libraries in Dorrigo, Bellingen and Urunga will be running displays showcasing their Aboriginal Collection and invite the community to come in and explore their extensive collection of Gumbaynggirr language materials. Dorrigo Library will also be hosting a NAIDOC Week Vintage Film Club with a FREE screening of “In My Blood it Runs” on Friday 4 July at 2pm. All the community is welcome to attend.
These events reflect Council’s ongoing commitment to recognising and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culture, and history across the Shire
NAIDOC Week 2025 marks a significant milestone: 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience. This year’s theme, "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy," celebrates the achievements of the past while looking to the future, empowered by the strength of young leaders, the wisdom of Elders, and the enduring legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This 50-year journey continues to honour the courage, insight, and deep cultural roots that have shaped a powerful national movement — one that remains grounded in community leadership, driven by unity, respect, and the shared vision of a strong and self-determined future.
For more information on NAIDOC Week 2025 visit: www.naidoc.org.au.
For more information and the latest updates about NAIDOC events in the Shire, follow Bellingen Shire Council’s Facebook page, visit our NAIDOC Week page or contact Council on 6655 7300.