This year’s national theme, ’50 Years of Deadly’, celebrates the transition in 1976 from a single day to a week-long event by the organising committee then known as NADOC.
In 1991 the ‘I’ was added to represent the Islander peoples.
In Australian Aboriginal English, "deadly" is a term of high praise meaning awesome, excellent, fantastic, or the very best.
Instead of its standard English meaning of fatal or harmful, it is used to celebrate skills, achievements, cultural pride, and community and is deeply integrated into cultural identity and community celebrations.
This week the community is invited to come together to recognise and celebrate the rich history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as part of the NAIDOC Week celebrations.
To honour this year’s national theme, Federation Council has a host of free events and activities offering residents of all ages a chance to connect, learn, and celebrate.
General manager Adrian Butler said Council was proud to host these meaningful initiatives and encouraged everyone to get involved.
“This year's theme is a powerful reminder of the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," Mr Butler said.
“We are pleased to have our libraries and community spaces host these vibrant, free events.
“It's a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together, listen, learn, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that enriches our region.”
The program features hands-on cultural experiences, youth storytelling, and a compelling contemporary art exhibition giving people the chance to connect with culture, creativity, and Country through activities for kids and families.
Yesterday saw respected local artists Aunty Iris Troutman and Desiree Walker lead participants in learning traditional weaving techniques at Corowa, Mulwala and Rand.
Mr Butler highlighted the unique opportunity the community has to learn directly from First Nations artists and advocates.
“Whether it’s learning traditional weaving techniques, bringing the little ones to a storytelling morning, or experiencing the deeply moving photography of Wiradjuri artist Elijah Ingram, there is something for everyone," Mr Butler said.
"These events are completely free, and I encourage our residents to come along, participate, and share in this milestone celebration."
As part of NAIDOC Week celebrations, Indigo Shire is offering two commission opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists with a connection to Country and communities within the region.
Their established Cultural Commission, valued at $5,000, and a new Emerging Artist Commission, valued at $2,500, designed to support artists at the emerging stage of their professional practice.
Both commissioned pieces will become part of Indigo Shire’s growing cultural collection, helping celebrate Aboriginal culture within the broader community.
Submissions close at 5pm on Monday, August 17.
Full eligibility details and the Expression of Interest guidelines are available on the Engaged Indigo page of the Shire’s website.
Deadly, free activities
- Howlong Library will hold a storytelling and creative crafting session on Friday at 10:30am in a special morning designed for children to celebrate Indigenous culture through engaging stories and crafts.
- The Corowa Art Space currently features a powerful and evocative photography exhibition, ‘Where I was to Where I am”. The work of Wiradjuri artist, filmmaker, and cultural advocate Elijah Ingram, is on display until July 11. Open Tuesday to Friday (9:30am – 4:30pm), and Saturday (10:00am – 2:00pm).
