General News
30 July, 2025
‘Great’ NAIDOC events
ORGANISERS of Douglas Shire NAIDOC celebrations are thrilled with the community’s response, describing them as “fantastic” and “incredible”.
The celebrations were held two weeks after the official National NAIDOC Week, which took place between July 6 and 13, during the school holidays. The reason for this time change was to allow school groups to take part after their recent break.
As with many local events, this colourful week of activities was made possible through the dedication of local community groups, elders, artists and educators who came together to share culture, knowledge and connection.
With this year’s NAIDOC Week theme being ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy’, day one started with a flag raising ceremony involving elders and students. The morning also included a ‘Welcome To Country’, words from Mayor Lisa Scomazzon and elders, a cake cutting, plus locals coming together from all sides of the community to honour the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
People also reflected on their commitment to cultural continuity, youth engagement and enduring contributions in the community.
Cr Scomazzon said she was “always honoured to walk alongside community members from all backgrounds during the NAIDOC Week march”.
“It’s a great show of unity and respect for our elders and the generations to come,” she said.
“NAIDOC in the Park also brings everyone together in the spirit of culture and connection and I’m looking forward to seeing that spirit continue at the Gateway Markets, where local creativity and community pride will be on full display.
“What’s been especially heartening is how the theme ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy’ has been embraced, not just during NAIDOC Week, but throughout the year, through cultural projects, youth engagement and the creative work of Yalanji Arts.”
Monday’s activities also included the traditional community street parade along Front St in Mossman, starting at Mossman State High School and finishing at George Davis Park, where people could further enjoy ‘NAIDOC in the Park’ with market stalls, entertainment, activities and a community barbecue.
Organiser and youth development coordinator, Brody Andrews said “it was just fantastic to see such an incredible turnout on Monday for the NAIDOC parade and park celebration”.
“The energy from the community was amazing, with a wonderful parade followed by the event in George Davis Park,” he said.
“Seeing everyone come together to celebrate this year’s theme ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy’ was a huge success and we at Mossman Support Services Youth Centre were very privileged to be organising the event this year.”
Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre Market set for Wednesday, July 30 running from 10am to 2pm, is described by the organisers as a more serene day, where local artists and stallholders showcase NAIDOC-inspired creations in a vibrant celebration of culture and community.
Read More: Douglas Shire
