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NAIDOC week started last Monday with a community walk down the main street and a celebration out the front of council chambers.
Mayor Ray Donald started the proceedings by acknowledging Cr Veneta Dutton, the first indigenous councillor on the Shire.
Director of education Charles Dwyer and Uncle Phill Suillivan were guest speakers. They spoke about languages keeping with the theme “language matter”. Mr Dwyer spoke about the importance of language in education and Uncle Phil spoke about the connection to culture.
Aunty Lesley Ryan raised the Aboriginal flag with her one of her great grandchild Melanie Howard.
Nyngan Pre-School, High School, Public School and St Josephs all did a performance. The dancers were painted in Ochre by Tyrone Hall who lead the dances.
The NAIDOC cake was made by Ngaire Booth at the high school and cut by Uncle Phil and Aunty Lesley.
After the opening community members and guest joined the nyngan preschool for morning tea where Aboriginal staff members Aimee Robb and Miranda Turk opening the Aboriginal garden and spoke about how the garden will benefit the children and staff in earning about Aboriginal culture.
On Tuesday the Nyngan Public School had their showcase day. Uncle Ralph Naden told stories through dance along with spear and boomerang throwing.
On Wednesday the High School had their Showcase Day.
Thursday was St Joseph’s Showcase which included a liturgy of reflection about Aboriginal culture.
The liturgy was followed by a morning tea where the community celebrated Aunty Betty Carney’s birthday. A free barbecue and a community concert took place in the afternoon with Atahlia Sutherland and Royden Donohoe the entertainment.
On Thursday evening Katie White from the Community Hub held a school age disco with prizes and lots of fun for everyone.
Friday was the community day celebrated at Rotary Park on the beautiful Bogan River. Uncle Ralph Naden gave a welcoming dance.
A fishing competition was held and supervised by Bradley McDougall and Leonie Couley. Two fish were caught by Tyreek Weldon, he was the winner on the day.
The day included the Lions Club merry-go-round, jumping castle, fire truck, reptile displays from the Dubbo Zoo and loads of other fun activities.
Ability Links brought their drums for a drumming circle, Barnardos did face painting and provided an area for little children, art and craft stations with Priscilla Lord and Melissa Selfe provided a delicious barbecue lunch.
The AECG thanked everyone for their support.