NAIDOC Week celebrations begin in Busselton with flag-raising ceremony

NAIDOC Week in Busselton began with a flag-raising ceremony and morning tea on Monday in celebration of the oldest continuing living culture on earth.

Held at the City of Busselton’s administration building, the event brought together elders, community leaders and residents to reflect on the history, resilience and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Elders shared stories and reflections, highlighting the significance of keeping culture strong for future generations.

Elder Jenny Wallam said NAIDOC Week first began when she was 16, but the event to recognise the history of Aboriginal people should have began much earlier.

“We did it years ago, before it was even recognised as a national event, we would sit around and yarn,” she said.

“I believe we celebrate all the time.”

Fellow elder David Pell said events such as NAIDOC Week played an important role in preserving and sharing Aboriginal culture.

“Down here, we (weren’t) brought up under Aboriginal culture, we were brought up on European culture, so it’s good to celebrate the culture and keep it alive today,” he said.

While wet weather prevented the traditional flag-raising from taking place outdoors, a pre-recorded ceremony was screened for attendees before the Wadandi-Bibbulmun Dance Group captivated the crowd with a cultural performance.

NAIDOC Week celebrations will continue on Thursday with a Cultural Activity Day at the Youth and Communities Activity Building from 11am to 2pm, offering the community another opportunity to learn about and celebrate Aboriginal culture.