BACHS marked NAIDOC Week 2025 with a powerful series of events honouring culture, community and connection. This year’s theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, was brought to life through celebration, reflection and storytelling across Bourke and Enngonia.
On Thursday, 10 July, Bourke Central Park came alive for BACHS’ NAIDOC Family Fun Day. Community members from Bourke and beyond gathered for a full day of music, dancing, food and culture. Families were treated to bush tucker and BBQ meals, live performances from the Yellowbelly Band, traditional dance, kids’ activities and local artwork. There were also lucky door prizes, including free family portrait sessions.
“It was fantastic to see so many people out today. Mob catching up, kids running around, people enjoying the music and the food,” said Jay Forrester, CEO of BACHS. “It reminds us why this week matters. We celebrate culture, but we also show up for each other.”
The event highlighted the strength of Aboriginal voices, past and present, while creating space for younger generations to connect with culture. Elders and community leaders stood alongside children, performers and artists, creating an intergenerational celebration.
BACHS also hosted a NAIDC celebration at Enngonia Public School. Held on Friday 4 July, the event brought together students from, staff and community for a morning of activities. The community painted boomerangs, clap sticks and T-shirts while enjoying a traditional meal prepared by local volunteers.
To close the week, BACHS held a NAIDOC Remembrance Day Ceremony on Friday 11 July at the BACHS clinic. The gathering provided a quiet, respectful moment to remember and honour those who came before us. Community members paused together to reflect on shared history, ongoing strength and the responsibility carried into the future.
BACHS thanks everyone who helped make NAIDOC Week 202 a success: the performers, artists, volunteers, staff, Elders and all the families and community members who joined the celebration.
Let’s keep the fire burning blak, loud and proud for generations to come.
