Fremantle gets ready for NAIDOC Week celebrations

28/6 UPDATE: Due to the COVID-19 restrictions introduced on Sunday 27 June 2021, the NAIDOC Week Heal Country Community Event and Buster session have been postponed until further notice. 

A family-friendly community event, the announcement of the Sealin Garlett Community Leadership Award and a free Nyoongar language class are part of the City of Fremantle’s celebrations to mark 2021 NAIDOC Week.

Held from 4–11 July, this year’s NAIDOC Week theme Heal Country! recognises the special connection between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the nation, and opens conversations about protecting our lands, waters, sacred sites and cultural heritage from exploitation, desecration and destruction.

Fremantle Deputy Mayor Andrew Sullivan encouraged residents to get involved in the activities on offer during NAIDOC Week and to celebrate the rich history, diverse cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“NAIDOC Week also provides an opportunity for all of us to learn about Nyoongar culture from our local Aboriginal Elders and community members,” Cr Sullivan said.

“The land where Fremantle (Walyalup) sits has always been a significant place of ceremonies, cultural practices and trading.

“Last month Fremantle Council voted to rename Kings Square to Walyalup Koort – a Whadjuk Nyoongar name meaning ‘Heart of Fremantle’ – which provided another opportunity for our community to learn more about our overlapping pasts, about the importance of language, and to consider where we are heading on our long reconciliation journey that has only just begun.

“Community members can learn more about the importance of truth telling, reconciliation and the Nyoongar people’s connection to Country at the Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre (WACC).

“Throughout the year, the WACC showcases local Aboriginal art, culture, history and storytelling through various exhibitions, workshops, film screenings, music and tours.”

The City’s NAIDOC Week celebrations kick off early with a free community event at Fremantle PCYC on Tuesday 29 June from 3–5pm. A popular event each year there’ll be storytelling, dancing, bush tucker tastings and Aboriginal-inspired crafts.

The announcement of the Sealin Garlett Community Leadership Award winner will also take place at the NAIDOC event. The award honours the late Reverend Sealin Garlett, who was an outstanding contributor towards reconciliation both to the Nyoongar community and non-Aboriginal community of Perth.

Across town, the WACC is hosting a number of NAIDOC Week activities including a special Buster It’s All About Play session, a free Nyoongar language class and community canvas workshop to celebrate the Makuru Nyoongar season.

For more information about NAIDOC Week activities, see the details below or visit the What’s On page on the City’s website.

Everyone is welcome to come along and celebrate Nyoongar culture and community. Hosted by Freo Toy Library and Fremantle PCYC, there’ll be a Smoking Ceremony, storytelling and dance, sand art display, bush tucker including kangaroo stew and damper, community canvas and Aboriginal-inspired crafts, such as boomerang decorating. The Sealin Garlett Community Leadership Award winner will also be announced!

Tuesday 29 June | 3–5pm | Fremantle PCYC | Free

A free, multi-sensory, hands-on, child-centred program that offers creative and fun opportunities for families to learn and play together. We will have special Indigenous toys and activities for families to enjoy.

Wednesday 7 July | 9.30–11.30am | Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre | Free

Keep the Nyoongar language alive with this beginner class facilitated by the amazing Sharon Gregory. This casual class is a great introduction to the Nyoongar language that is easy to follow and loads of fun.

Thursday 8 July | 12–1pm | Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre | Free, bookings required

Our free community canvas sessions connect Nyoongar artists with people interested in listening and learning more about Aboriginal culture. This collaborative painting session will be facilitated by local Nyoongar artist Sharon Calgaret and created by you!

Friday 9 July | 12–2pm | Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre | Free, bookings required

Pop into Fremantle Library and check out our striking and educational book display celebrating all-things NAIDOC Week.

Sunday 4–Sunday 11 July | Fremantle Library