Over the winter break, NAIDOC Week 2025 was celebrated across Australia. This year marked a significant 50‑year milestone in honouring the history, culture, and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The national theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” honours the legacy of Elders and trailblazers who paved the way, while celebrating the promise, leadership and cultural vision of emerging generations. NAIDOC Week offers all Australians an opportunity to engage in rich cultural activities—such as storytelling, music, art exhibitions and local events—that foster education, mutual respect, and reconciliation. More than a week of celebration, it is a call to action: to support Indigenous self‑determination, amplify First Nations voices, and continue building an inclusive and just society grounded in strength, shared vision, and lasting legacy.

Last Friday, the Catholic Education community gathered at St Christopher’s Cathedral in Manuka with special guests to celebrate NAIDOC Week with a Mass and recognise those who have made a significant contribution to Aboriginal education in the Archdiocese.

The service began with a smoking ceremony by the Wiradjuri Echoes that welcomed attendees into the Church for Mass celebrated by Father Paul Nulley. Aunty Selina Walker, a Ngunnawal Elder, opened the Mass with a special Welcome to Country, inviting all First Nation students forward to support her welcoming ceremony. It was truly a very special Mass to be a part of. 

Daniel Hunt
ATSI Education Contact Teacher