News from the Lord Mayor's Office, 14 July 2025

By Wollongong Lord Mayor Councillor Tania Brown

Every July NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

This year we acknowledged the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC with the theme of ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy.’

This year's theme celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of their young leaders, the vision of their communities, and the legacy.

I attended local NAIDOC events at Warrawong, Koonawarra and Bellambi, a reflection of the rich Aboriginal heritage we have in Wollongong which goes back thousands of years.

These were wonderful celebrations of our Aboriginal community and highlighted the strong and genuine commitment within the wider community to learn about the past and move forward together in the spirit reconciliation.

Throughout the week I saw the young people of our community engage with their Elders, participate in smoking ceremonies and traditional dances. I also had my first taste of Johnny Cakes at Bellambi and will be back for more!

Thank you to the Warrawong Residents Forum, CareWays and the Bellambi Neighbourhood Centre for organising these successful NAIDOC events and for partnering with First Nations people every week of the year.