After a traditional Welcome to Country ceremony, which is an acknowledgment and recognition of the rights of Noongar people's traditional country, guests were treated to some traditional dancing from the Moorditj Mob dance group, singing, face painting and hip hop performances from the Urban Youth Crew dance group.
West Coast Eagles players Sharrod Wellingham, Mark Hutchings, Jamie Bennell and Murray Newman were on hand to sign autographs, pose for photos and join in the celebrations.
The theme for NAIDOC week in 2013 proudly celebrates the anniversary of the presentation of the Yirrkala Petitions to the Federal Parliament. The petitions protested the Commonwealth’s granting of mining rights on land excised from Arnhem Land reserve and sought the recognition by the Australian Parliament of the Yolngu peoples’ traditional rights and ownership of their lands.
Eagles defender Bennell said it was a great afternoon with the kids.
“It was sensational,” he said.
“The kids were so happy, the traditional welcome and performances were terrific, and the food wasn’t bad too.
“It’s a great week of celebration and it’s great to celebrate the unique connection that Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islander’s share to country.”
NAIDOC celebrations take place across the country throughout the first full week in July 2013. All Australians are encouraged to participate.
