Celebrating NAIDOC 2025: The Next Generation — Strength, Vision & Legacy

This month, students and staff across our school community have been immersed in NAIDOC Week celebrations, proudly engaging in events that honour the 2025 theme: The Next Generation – Strength, Vision & Legacy. From public ceremonies to cultural festivals and Mass celebrations, the past few weeks have been a powerful expression of pride, connection, and respect. 
 

Eurobodalla Shire Council Flag Raising Ceremony

On 11 July, our Indigenous Leaders, Savannah McGann and Robert Slockee, were invited to speak at the Eurobodalla Shire Council's NAIDOC Flag Raising Ceremony. They addressed this year’s theme with strength and grace, sharing reflections on the legacy of their ancestors and their ongoing commitment to elevating Indigenous voices and culture. Their thoughtful words captured the spirit of NAIDOC 2025 and inspired all in attendance.

Following the event, we received this heartfelt message from the Eurobodalla Council:

“It was a privilege to have the school’s Indigenous leaders, Savannah and Robert, participate in such a meaningful way. Their speeches and presence were deeply professional and respectful, and they represented your school with pride… It felt especially fitting to have young leaders like Savannah and Robert speak at the ceremony.”
— Sharon Halliday, Events Officer, Eurobodalla Shire Council

Yuin Bunaan – A Day to Remember

On Wednesday, 23 July, students from across the region gathered for the Yuin Bunaan, a vibrant celebration of culture, connection, and community. The day was filled with traditional dance, weaving, painting, sports, damper making, and bush tukka walks. The energy was infectious, and it was heartening to see so many young people engaging so deeply and respectfully with culture.

A huge thank you to the cultural leaders, Elders, volunteers, staff, and community members who made the day possible. The Yuin Bunaan reminded us all of the strength, vision, and legacy that lives on through The Next Generation. 

Catholic Education NAIDOC Mass and Visit to Reconciliation Place

On Friday, a group of Indigenous students travelled to Canberra with Mrs Heffernan, Mrs Katuke, Miss Ellis and Mr Nolan to attend the Catholic Education NAIDOC Mass. The liturgy was a moving tribute to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history, deeply aligned with this year’s theme.

We were incredibly proud to witness three members of our school community recognised for their contributions:

• Robert Slockee – Leadership Award, for his outstanding commitment to cultural education and representation within our school.
• Brooke Bell – Deadly Encouragement Award, for her unwavering effort and dedication.
• Mr Riley Nolan (AEW) – Leadership Award, presented at the South Coast Schools NAIDOC Mass for his passionate work across our K–12 Pathways schools.

Following the Mass, students visited Reconciliation Place, where they explored the stories and symbols that represent the shared journey of all Australians. It was a powerful and unifying experience.

Whole School NAIDOC Liturgy

Today we continued our celebrations as a school community with our NAIDOC Liturgy. This special gathering allowed us to come together in prayer, reflection and celebration, acknowledging the strength, vision, and legacy of our First Nations peoples, and the bright future being built by The Next Generation.

We are proud to walk together, to learn together, and to celebrate together.

Mrs Michelle Katuke
Aboriginal Contact Teacher