An intimate flag-raising ceremony was held at Nambour to commemorate NAIDOC Week (8 to 15 November) and its important theme, Always was, Always will be.
Sunshine Coast Council paid tribute to local Elders past and present during the ceremony.
Uncle Tais K’Reala Randanpi, Family Tribal Elder and Ambassador, carried out a Greetings to Country and traditional performers Gubbi Gubbi Dance and Zom Kolbe Kolbe (Torres Strait Islands) acknowledged the Traditional Custodians of the Sunshine Coast – the Kabi Kabi peoples and Jinibara peoples.
It comes as NAIDOC Week festivities were postponed in July due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Due to social distancing requirements, the flag-raising event was live streamed on council’s Facebook page to share the experience with our community.
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said it was important for all residents to recognise and understand the rich history and continuing contribution to our community of our First Nations peoples.
“This year’s NAIDOC Week is about recognising that First Nations people have occupied and cared for this continent for more than 65,000 years and their connection with country is deeply enduring,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“I’m very pleased to see this year’s festivities are now able to take place and encourage everyone to pause and reflect on NAIDOC Week’s significance.
“Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan supports social and economic opportunities for the Traditional Custodians, the Kabi Kabi peoples and Jinibara peoples and the broader First Nations community on the Sunshine Coast.”
“This Plan is part of our ongoing commitment to working in partnership with and respecting, valuing and supporting the culture, aspirations and opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”
Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said he was glad to see a variety of online workshops and library resources available for the community to enjoy.
“It’s important for people to come together and respect the past while uniting together for the future,” Cr Law said.
“Namba NAIDOC’s family event on Friday 13 November at Nambour Showgrounds is also a great opportunity for families to participate.”
