NAIDOC Week 2024 Kicks Off with a Vibrant Opening Ceremony

Brisbane, July 9 (MCCQ Newsdesk, WAMCI Media Release)

The opening ceremony of NAIDOC Week 2024 was held on Saturday, July 6th, at the Sunnybank Private Hospital Gallery, marking the beginning of a week-long celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

The event drew a diverse crowd, including community leaders, artists, diplomats, and international guests.

The ceremony commenced with Nichole Nichol, Business Development Manager of Sunnybank Private Hospital, welcoming attendees and introducing the traditional acknowledgment delivered by Aunty Peggy Tidyman. Edward Lin, CEO of Australia Taiwan Culture Foundation Ltd., followed by introducing distinguished guests.

In her speech, Susan Yang, President of World Arts & Multi-Culture Inc., emphasized the significance of NAIDOC Week and this year’s theme, “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak Loud and Proud.” Yang extended her gratitude to Sunnybank Private Hospital, her colleagues at World Arts & Multi-Culture Inc., and the participating artists, including Uncle Joe Geia, Aunty Peggy Tidyman, Jenny Kent,

Sheri Merenda, and Kearen Huang. She highlighted the importance of unity and respect across all communities, celebrating the rich and diverse cultures of Indigenous peoples worldwide.

The event was graced by guests of honour including Peter Russo MP, Member for Toohey, Cr Jon Raven, Mayor of Logan City, Cr Emily Kim, representing Calamvale Ward, William Fan, Director-General of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Brisbane, Charles Ouyang, Director of Queensland Taiwan Centre, and community leaders from the Aboriginal, Taiwanese,

Indian, German, Norwegian, Vietnamese, Korean, Chilean, Iceland, South America and South African communities. Their presence underscored the importance of cultural understanding and appreciation, aligning with the spirit of NAIDOC Week.

A special moment in the ceremony was the exchange of gifts between the Australian and Taiwanese Indigenous communities. Susan Yang presented Aunty Peggy with a shoulder pocket from Chief Sawtoy Saytay of the Taiwanese Indigenous Amis Community, symbolizing the deep bond and mutual respect between the communities.

The ceremony also featured an exhibition showcasing the talents of Indigenous artists, workshops, and refreshments, providing an immersive cultural experience for all attendees. The event underscored the power of art in bringing people together and transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.

The opening ceremony set a vibrant tone for NAIDOC Week 2024, celebrating the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The week’s festivities promise to continue this celebration, fostering cultural unity and respect.