Published on Saturday, 22 April 2023 at 12:01:00 AM
The Shire of East Pilbara is proud to announce the new date of the Ball celebrating our First Nations’ history will coincide with NAIDOC Week, starting this year.
As part of the Shire’s dedication towards making meaningful action towards genuine reconciliation. The decision has been made as part of our commitment towards our Reconciliation Action Plan – Reflect.
“The Shire recognises the importance of the community Ball to the Newman community and its focus on celebrating and recognising our First Nation community,” Deputy Shire President Wendy McWhirter-Brooks said.
“Therefore, it has been decided to move the ball to be held just before NAIDOC Week on 24 June 2023, to align the event with the National NAIDOC theme, which celebrates and recognises First Nations’ history, culture and achievements.
“We understand the Reconciliation Ball was beloved by the community, but don’t worry, we have plenty of activities taking place throughout Reconciliation Week from 27 May – 3 June.
“This year’s NAIDOC Week theme is “For Our Elders”, and we’re excited to see how we, with the help of the community, make the NAIDOC Ball an event to remember, while honouring the theme and culture of our First Nations people.
“We’ll have information about the exact date of the NAIDOC Ball and tickets soon, so keep an eye on our Facebook page.”
Cr McWhirter-Brooks encouraged people to start getting excited for the program of events heading into Reconciliation Week. The program will be dropped off in people’s letter boxes ahead of Reconciliation Week 2023.
Events during Reconciliation Week will include a Twilight Movie Series screening of “We Are Still Here”, Newman Library events for adults and children, a breakfast, and a scavenger hunt. More details will be released soon.
“We’re also planning regular Reconciliation and NAIDOC Week Community Planning Meetings for all Newman-related activities and events,” Cr McWhirter-Brooks said. “The intention of the meeting is to promote opportunities to collaborate between agencies, groups and businesses, and to develop a community program of events and activities.”
If you would like to get involved or provide feedback, please contact the Shire’s Coordinator Stakeholder Engagement Hanna Roets on 08 9175 8000 or email [email protected]
Visit the Shire’s website to learn more about our Community Assistance Grants and how the Shire is able to support your event or activity.
“We highly encourage people and organisations to participate in the Reconciliation and NAIDOC Week Community Planning Meetings to ensure your event does not overlap with another event, as this may affect your eligibility,” Cr McWhirter-Brooks said.
More information
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