Benalla Rural City’s NAIDOC Week celebrations began on Tuesday, July 8 with community members gathering at the Civic Centre for a flag-raising ceremony.

Marking 50 years of honouring First Nations voices, culture and resilience, this year’s theme – The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy – celebrates those who are shaping the future, grounded in the strength of those who came before.

The theme recognises the courage and leadership of Elders and community leaders, while highlighting the importance of empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth to carry forward their cultural knowledge, identity and aspirations.

The Australian flag was raised by Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn, with Aunty Gayelene Arandall, a proud Palawa woman, raising the Aboriginal flag.

The Torres Strait Islander flag was raised by Daryle Lawford, his daughter Jemma Cooney and granddaughters Amelia and Mya Cooney, three generations of a proud Yorta Yorta family.

Cr Hearn spoke during the ceremony.

"NAIDOC Week is a chance for all of us to come together, show respect and learn from each other," Cr Hearn said.

Following the ceremony, celebrations continued at the Lakeside Community Centre with a community event showcasing culture and connection.

Hundreds of locals enjoyed live music, traditional dance performances, children’s activities, and a stunning display of the 2025 NAIDOC Quilt, created by the Benalla Deadly Women’s Yarning Group.

The quilt showcases powerful stories of identity, connection and cultural pride.

“The energy at the Lakeside Centre was incredible,” Cr Hearn said.

“It was lovely to see people of all ages enjoying the music, dancing and culture. Events like this help us grow together as a community.”

“Benalla Rural City Council thanks everyone who attended and helped make the day such a success.”

Benalla Health’s Aboriginal Liaison Officer (ALO) and emcee of the NAIDOC Week celebrations at the Glasshouse, Jordyn Atkinson, said it was fabulous to see so many children and adults enjoying this year’s event.

“We had over 100 children and young people attend who were engaged in games, art, music and even flag-raising this year,” she said.

“It was great being able to involve so many young Aboriginal community members in the event and the local organisations who support them.

“We had over 450 community members and organisation supporters attend our event, which was massive. Many connections were made and friendships rekindled.”

Tomorrow Today’s Anganya young artist group, led by Aunty Cheryl Cooper, proudly displayed and unveiled their artworks at the event.

Benalla Health CEO Jacqueline Kelly said the event was a big success.

“Thank you for joining us in celebrating the achievements of the past and the boundless potential of the generations to come."

Cr Hearn thanked Benalla Health for its lead role in delivering this event.

“Council also extends its appreciation to the NAIDOC Week Planning Group, guided by the Benalla Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group and Tomorrow Today, for their leadership and commitment in organising this important event,” Cr Hearn said.

This event was funded by the Benalla and District Social Inclusion Action Group through the Victorian Department of Health and the Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency.

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