Park was packed for Naidoc Week celebrations
A capacity crowd of more than 200 people packed Sydney 2000 Park adjacent to the Mingaletta Hall in Umina for a variety of activities for Mingaletta's Naidoc Week celebration on Friday, July 12.
A number of speakers from Mingaletta invited those present to join in the welcoming community spirit of the day with the theme "Keep the fire burning".
Mingaletta treasurer Mr Mark Champley, son of elder Aunty Faye, was Master of Ceremonies, welcoming the crowd and introducing other speakers.
Elder Aunty Robyn Reid in her Acknowledgment of Country said that the community was in good hands with the energy and talents evident in the aspiring younger generation of First Nation Peoples.
Mr Alan O'Brien led the smoking ceremony, in which the crowd participated.
Elder Aunty Di O'Brien spoke on the history of Naidoc and her direct ancestry to activist Mr William Cooper.
Aboriginal education officer Mr Rheese Bull led the young Mingaletta Didge and Dance performers through a number of traditional songs in language.
Dance lessons are held at Mingaletta each Monday during term school term from 4pm and are open for children to join.
SOURCE:
Media statement, 17 Jul 2024
Sue McCarthy, Ettalong Beach
Stephanie Short, Woy Woy