Celebrating NAIDOC week in Moonee Valley
NAIDOC week is a time to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, their contributions to our Nation and the continuation of the oldest living culture on Earth.
There’s plenty of free cultural activities and workshops happening in the Valley for you to join in on. Come along for an enriching week of cultural traditions, stories, and music.
Musical Performance | Monday, 3 July at 11:00am
Gunditjmara man and Singer songwriter David Arden will play an acoustic session at the Clocktower Café to open NAIDOC Week celebrations at Moonee Valley. David recently played at Bunjil’s Marroun Healing Ceremony on 26th January 2023 and has a new Album release “Meerta – the ballad of James Arden”. David has a unique way of storytelling through music and we welcome him back to Moonee Valley.
Flag raising ceremony | Thursday, 6 July at 11:00am
The NAIDOC flag raising event will be hosted at Crown Street Stables on Thursday 6 July 2023. A flag raising ceremony, including a Welcome to Country and Smoking ceremony, coupled with cultural activities by Yarn Strong Sista who will have bush bouquet making, bush tucker cakes and art experiences. Light refreshments will be available also.
Libraries and Learning
In recognition of Reconciliation Week and to celebrate NAIDOC Week, Libraries and Learning are holding the following events:
Workshop: Indigenous Storytelling Through Art
Monday 3 July, 11am-12pm – Sam Merrifield Library
Tuesday 4 July, 11am-12pm – Niddrie Library
Wednesday 5 July, 1pm-2pm – Avondale Heights Library and Learning Centre
Learn about Indigenous art symbols and how to interpret them in stories. Children will get to create and draw their own story using the symbols and techniques they have learned. For primary school aged children. Free, bookings necessary.
Film Screening: Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow
Friday 7 July, 1.30pm – Avondale Heights Library and Learning Centre
This feature documentary celebrates the lives, music and love story of First Nations artists Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter as they prepare and perform at the premiere of Kura Tungar – songs from the River. 90 mins, rated PG. Free, bookings necessary.