NAIDOC Week

Wominjeka & Acknowledgement of Country

Wominjeka means ‘Welcome’ in Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation.

On behalf of Heathmont College, we would like to note that since the dawn of time, the sacred land on which our school is situated Always Was and Always Will Be Wurundjeri land.

We would like to pay our respects to the traditional custodians who are guardians of this land, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation, and we acknowledge their Ancestors, Elders, Youth and Children; past, present and those of the future within their community.

We recognise the many diverse and ongoing living cultures of all First Nations people of Australia.

It’s with appreciation we see their perseverance, strength and value their deep continuing spiritual connection to Country, Community, Animals, Skies, Stars and Waterways, as they belong to the oldest living culture in the world. The Heathmont College community is dedicated to embracing First Nation’s history and cultures by fostering respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people built on co-operation and trust.

We all come from different places though we must work together on this shared learning journey to enrich our understandings and celebrate First Nation’s people and their cultures.

This land was never ceded, it Always Was and Always Will Be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land.

What is NAIDOC Week?

"NAIDOC celebrations are held around Australia traditionally each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The week is celebrated not just in the Indigenous communities but also within government agencies, schools, local councils and workplaces. we work together to bring about a better understanding of our shared history, which is inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and languages."

This year's theme celebrates the unyielding spirit of our communities and invites all to stand in solidarity, amplifying the voices that have long been silenced.

The fire represents the enduring strength and vitality of Indigenous cultures, passed down through generations despite the challenges faced. It is a symbol of connection to the land, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As we honour this flame, we kindle the sparks of pride and unity, igniting a renewed commitment to acknowledging, preserving, and sharing the cultural heritage that enriches our nation.

"Blak, Loud and Proud" encapsulates the unapologetic celebration of Indigenous identity, empowering us to stand tall in our heritage and assert our place in the modern world. This theme calls for a reclamation of narratives, an amplification of voices, and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality. It invites all Australians to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue, fostering a society where the wisdom and contributions of Indigenous peoples are fully valued and respected.

NAIDOC, 2024

NAIDOC Week in the Community

All of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, families and allys are welcome to participate in any of the below activities.

Grounding and Connecting: Indigenous Trees and The Dreaming

Immerse yourself in a world of First Nations creativity and storytelling in Grounding and Connecting: Indigenous Trees and The Dreaming, a tribute to the profound bond between First Nations communities and the earth.

This exhibition, presented by Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place, celebrates the launch of a new project mapping First Nations art including outdoor art, galleries, interpretive walks and education experiences in Naarm / Melbourne’s Eastern regions.

The exhibition presents a newly commissioned mural, and exhibition works ranging across painting, sculpture, wood and photography by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists responding the themes of Big Old Beautiful Indigenous Trees and The Dreaming.

Arise

Arise is a group exhibition by First Nations artists Emma Salmon, Njarala Paton, Garen Smith, Graham Patterson, Stacey Payten and Taylah Eid. Exhibiting together for the first time, for Arise, these artists present works across painting, weaving, video, sculpture and installation practices.In 2024, Arts in Maroondah and Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place partnered to develop a callout for emerging First Nations artists. The aim was to create an exhibition showcasing artists at the beginning of their careers.The artists in Arise were selected through this process.

Arise presents a strong and diverse body of work that brings together traditional and contemporary approaches which together reflect the creative energy of emerging First Nations art practices now.

NAIDOC Week Urban Art Tour

Join us for a 90-minute guided tour to celebrate First Peoples arts and culture in the Ringwood arts precinct during NAIDOC Week.

Commencing at Realm, the tours will include an overview of activities at Realm and then proceed to Maroondah Federation Estate, whilst taking in key public art works along the way.

This tour will highlight the visibility of nationally and internationally recognised artists who have produced artwork in the heart of the Ringwood arts precinct.

Tour details