Celebrating NAIDOC Week 2024 from the islands to Adelaide
The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) has congratulated winners of the 2024 National NAIDOC Awards announced in Tarntanya (Adelaide) including Torres Strait Islanders, Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Aunty Dulcie Flower and Caring for Country Award winner Alick Tipoti.
TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said NAIDOC Week was an opportunity to celebrate First Nations culture, contributions and excellence.
“In Australia we are blessed with the knowledge and wisdom of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, the world’s oldest continuous cultures,” Mr Stephen said.
“On behalf of TSRA, I congratulate everyone recognised during NAIDOC Week for their ongoing advocacy and dedication to our people and communities.”
Mr Stephen said National NAIDOC Week elevated First Nations voices and achievements.
“First Nations people in this country are a minority, with Torres Strait Islanders a minority within a minority,” he said.
“NAIDOC Week provides a platform to acknowledge and celebrate our unique culture at a national level.
“The Muyngu Koekaper Dance Team performances during the NAIDOC Awards witnessed live and broadcast across Australia was a proud moment for all of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait).
“The winning 2024 NAIDOC Week Poster artwork by Deborah Belyea, inspired by the dance team from Saibai, showcases the enduring strength, spirit and culture as the fire that burns within us all.
“Growing Torres Strait Islander representation alongside our Aboriginal brothers and sisters will keep the fire burning for many generations to come,” he said.
The Muyngu Koekaper Dance Team from the nation’s remote far north was proudly supported to perform at the 2024 National NAIDOC Awards by TSRA’s Governance and Leadership Program.
From 7-14 July 2024, NAIDOC Week 2024 will celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This year’s theme chosen by the National NAIDOC Committee, is Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud.
The theme honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
