Celebrations for NAIDOC Week returned to Northern Sydney Local Health District, marking this year’s theme: Get up! Stand up! Show up!

Events at Ryde, Hornsby and Royal North Shore hospitals featured singing, dancing and giveaways as the NSLHD Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Service put on a spectacular show at each site, with the help of Koomurri and the Kiris An Tharan Dance Group.

At Ryde, a smoking ceremony and Yidaki performance took place at the yarning circle followed by more dancing and celebrations on the verandah of Denistone House. Staff were also treated to delicious Indigenous food including emu, crocodile and kangaroo sliders.

Staff at Royal North Shore and Hornsby Hospitals were treated to a smoking ceremony alongside a Yidaki performance by Koomurri and Torres Strait Islander dance by the Kiris An Tharun Dance Group.

Acting Director of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Service Paul Weir thanked staff, patients and community members for taking part in NAIDOC Week celebrations.

“It was deadly to see the number of staff and community who attended our NAIDOC events despite the cold and wet weather conditions,” he said.

Chief Executive Deb Willcox said it was wonderful to see so many staff members embracing NAIDOC Week and this year’s theme.

“The theme is about the desire to improve the relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians to one that is based on justice, equity, and the recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” she said.

“It’s important we “Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up!” and amplify our voices to bring about this much needed change, and come together as one nation.”

At Mona Vale, the construction of a yarning circle is set to begin in August with construction firm NPM Indigenous on board to create it.