Inala Wangarra is gearing up for the NAIDOC Week celebrations, starting with the Inala NAIDOC Launch on Friday, June 28 at the Inala Plaza.
The NAIDOC Launch event will start with a Welcome to Country, an opening prayer from Aunty Evelyn Warrior and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditional dances.
This free event will pave the way for the bigger Inala NAIDOC Family Fun Day on Wednesday, July 3, at the West Inala Rugby League Football Club, CJ Greenfield Sporting Complex, Richlands.
All events are free and open to the entire community, promising a vibrant and engaging experience.
Chief Operating Officer of Inala Wangarra Sonya Egert is excited to celebrate and recognise the First Nations communities of Inala and the wider area.
“It gives us a chance to get together and celebrate our history and our elders,” she said.
“It’s also an opportunity for everyone in the community to learn about our cultures and histories.”
Sonya also highlighted the community-centred approach of these events.
“We open stalls for schools and local community organisations, which is great,” she said.
“Everybody that holds a stall has to do an interactive event, engaging in a meaningful way with the community.”
With an expected turnout of 5,000 to 6,000 people, the Inala NAIDOC Family Fun Day is set to be a massive celebration.
The event runs from 10am to 3pm and includes free rides for kids, ensuring a fun-filled day for families.
A significant highlight of the event is the special provision for elders in the community.
“We provide a dedicated area for the elders to sit, offering them morning tea, lunch, and free tea and coffee,” Sonya said.
“They can come and really just enjoy the day, connect and catch up with family and friends in a comfortable and relaxed way.”
The Inala NAIDOC celebrations have a rich history, with the steering committees coordinating these events for over 20 years.
The Inala community has been instrumental in supporting NAIDOC events in neighbouring areas such as Carroll Park, Ellen Grove, and Acacia Ridge.
“The Family Fun Day is open to everybody in the community, not just for the First Nations community,” Sonya said.
“We often have preschools bringing their children for the day, especially since it aligns with school holidays. This ensures families can attend and enjoy the festivities without any constraints.”
As the Inala NAIDOC Week approaches, the community eagerly anticipates a series of events that celebrate culture, foster community spirit, and provide an enriching experience for all ages.
For more information about the Inala NAIDOC events, please visit the Inala Wangarra website or contact their office.
