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HomeNewsCelebrate First Nations histories, cultures and achievements

Celebrate First Nations histories, cultures and achievements

Come together this July for NAIDOC Week on the Sunshine Coast, with 2025 marking 50 years of honouring First Nations voices, culture and resilience.

This year’s theme ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy’ celebrates the past achievements and the bright future ahead, empowered by young leaders, community vision and ancestral legacy.

Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said there was a huge variety of free and low-cost events community members could attend to celebrate NAIDOC Week.

“From art exhibitions, creative workshops and musical spectaculars to family fun days, markets and the flag raising, there are special events of all kinds happening right across our Sunshine Coast,” Cr Law said.

“Please explore the NAIDOC Regional Guide, available on Council’s website, and take this opportunity to connect with and support our vibrant and diverse First Nations communities.

“These events have been made possible by dedicated local organisations, many of which have partnered with Council and made our NAIDOC celebrations come to life for the benefit of our community.

‘Of course, we also invite the whole community to Council’s annual NAIDOC Flag Raising, happening at Nambour Library Forecourt on Tuesday, July 8 from 10am to 1pm. This year we have invited First Nations young people to lead the event, with speeches performances, art and activities for the whole family.

“Congratulations to the National NAIDOC Committee for your 50th year. What a powerful milestone and important legacy you have created.”

Cr Law said the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Peoples’ rich cultural heritage was one of our region’s greatest assets and Council would soon be advancing to a Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan, continuing to build stronger relationships with First Nations peoples.

Sunshine Coast NAIDOC Regional Guide

Discover what’s happening across the Sunshine Coast throughout NAIDOC 2025.

For all the details, including to register or buy tickets, visit Council’s website.

From the sea, the land and the mountains

Until 3 August | Caloundra Regional Gallery – Free exhibition

Celebrating First Nations artists from the traditional lands of the Sunshine Coast region. This three-part exhibition profiles the art practice of Kabi Kabi and Jinibara artists – the paintings and installation art of up-and-coming Kabi Kabi artist, Zartisha Davis, the works of artist Kane Brunjes (Gunggari/Kabi Kabi), with assistance from Birrunga Gallery Hub, and a collective of Jinibara artists sharing their stories through printmaking.

NAIDOC at The Station: Blak, Proud & Next Gen Loud

Friday 4 July, 4pm | The Station

The Station is hosting a celebration of First Nations voices, talent and culture. The event features a headline performance by J-MILLA, one of Australia’s most exciting and respected First Nations hip hop artists.

Expect a night of powerful performances, cultural pride and strong community energy. This event is all-ages and open to all who want to support and celebrate First Nations culture during NAIDOC Week.

Sunshine Coast NAIDOC Family Fun Day

Saturday 5 July, 10am – 2pm | Nambour Junior State College – Free event

Come along to the biggest community led NAIDOC celebration on Gubbi Gubbi Country, Sunshine Coast.

Wan’Diny means ‘coming together’, inviting everyone to join us to celebrate First Nations culture and community. You can expect dance, food, entertainment, cultural workshops, kids activities, market stalls and more. The event is free and all ages.

NAIDOC Flag Raising and Youth Showcase

Tuesday 8 July, 10am – 1pm | Nambour Library Forecourt – Free event

Council’s annual flag raising brings together our community on Kabi Kabi Country, Nambaa, to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

In line with this year’s theme, the event will include a Youth Showcase featuring performances, art and activities by First Nations young people. This event is free but registration is essential.

Aura NAIDOC: Festival of the Harvest

Friday 11 July, 4 – 8pm | Baringa Forest Park – Free event

Get ready Sunshine Coast! Aura NAIDOC 2025 is coming and you’re invited to celebrate culture, community and Country at an unforgettable evening for all ages.

Join ‘The Festival of the Harvest’ a powerful cultural celebration hosted by Undumbi Culture. Let’s walk together, celebrate together and honour NAIDOC 2025 in true community spirit.

NAIDOC at Baringa Community Centre

Wednesday 16 July, 10am – 2pm | Baringa Community Centre – Free event

Caloundra Community Centre and Baringa Community Centre proudly bring you a day of NAIDOC celebrations.

Free food, free workshops (boomerangs, traditional art, weaving, jewellery making, craft, didgeridoo playing), First Nations markets, entertainment and more. Come along to the Baringa Centre for a great day of connection and fun.

Sunshine Coast NAIDOC Gala Dinner

Friday 25 July, 6pm | Pier 33 Mooloolaba

Join us on Kabi Kabi Country for a powerful evening of Blak excellence, storytelling, culture and celebration.

Hosted by The Dreaming Collective, this three-course sit-down gala will honour NAIDOC Week with a Welcome to Country, cultural performances, live music and entertainment and a night of connection pride and legacy building. All are welcome – don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable evening.

GATHAA NAIDOC Markets

Sunday 27 July, 10am – 1pm | Forest Glen – Free event

At GATHAA First Nations Market, a world of culture and connection awaits. Join us for a special NAIDOC Market this July.

Explore a lively atmosphere filled with First Nations artisans, bushfood-inspired street food, and engaging cultural workshops.

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