Call out to play key roles in 2021 Corroboree

Published on 23 August 2021

Local artists, food providers and performers are invited to be part of Sunraysia's biggest celebration of the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples - Mildura's annual NAIDOC Corroboree.

Normally held as part of NAIDOC Week in July each year, this year's Corroboree will take place on 13 November at Nowingi Place due to a combination of COVID restrictions last month, and warmer weather later in the year.

Aboriginal Action Committee (AAC) Chair Thelma Chilly said the organising committee for this year's event was calling for groups to come forward and be part of the 2021 Corroboree.

This could include local Aboriginal artists and performers, residents to conduct cultural workshops and stalls, as well as food providers and other forms of entertainment.

Groups or individuals wishing to be part of his year's event are asked to complete a simple application form which can be filled out online by visiting www.mildura.vic.gov.au/corroboree  

Alternatively, hard copies or more information is available by contacting Council's Diversity and Inclusion Officer Claire Galvin at [email protected] or Social and Community Planning Officer Kerren Miles at [email protected], or by phoning 5018 8100. Application forms must be completed by 17 September.

Ms Chilly encouraged groups or individuals to be part of the event, which has been recognised state-wide, receiving a prestigious Reconciliation Victoria HART Award in 2019.

"Our Corroboree is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures which also encourages the community to come together and really experience, and literally get a taste of the traditional culture that lays at the heart of our region," she said.

"A key part of providing this experience is the numerous entertainers, artists, workshops and food providers that have made past events such a success."

Mildura's Deputy Mayor and Councillor for Community Development and Gender Equality Helen Healy said the annual Corroboree was a collaborative effort between Council and the AAC.

"Our region's annual Corroboree is part of our commitment to reconciliation through Council's Reconciliation Action Plan," Cr Healy said.

"It highlights the importance of cultural celebration to achieve greater recognition and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and people, which are integral to our region's story."

 ENDS