Five Decades of Deadly! Community Unites To Celebrate Strength, Spirit And Culture

Throughout the week, communities across Mackay came together for a series of events celebrating the culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as part of the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

Celebrating 50 Years of Deadly! Mackay and surrounding regions have united in a powerful week of culture, connection and community, marking a milestone in the history of NAIDOC Week. From moving flag-raising ceremonies and captivating traditional performances to the recognition of respected Elders, the celebrations have honoured the voices, stories and legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As the region prepares to line the streets for today’s vibrant NAIDOC Parade and Family Fun Day, this landmark anniversary stands as a celebration of resilience, identity and a shared future built on respect and recognition.

‍

Happy NAIDOC week!

‍

Community Comes Together To Celebrate 50 Years Of NAIDOC

‍

Communities across Mackay have come together this week to celebrate NAIDOC Week, with a series of events recognising the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples under this year's theme, “50 Years of Deadly.”

‍

The week's celebrations began on Monday with Mackay Regional Council's NAIDOC Week Flag Raising Ceremony in the MECC foyer. While wet weather prompted a move from the Civic Precinct, the change of venue did little to dampen the significance of the occasion as community members gathered in reflection, recognition and celebration.

The ceremony marked the beginning of the milestone 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week and honoured the strength, resilience and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, while recognising those who have helped shape the NAIDOC movement over the past five decades.

‍

‍

Yuwi Elder Philip Kemp delivered the Welcome to Country before the ceremonial raising of the flags by Mayor Greg Williamson (Australian Flag), Aunty Ann McDonald and Aunty Pam Young (Aboriginal Flag), Mr Mahussan (Uncle George) Barba (Torres Strait Islander Flag) and Chief Executive Officer Gerard Carlyon (Queensland Flag).

‍

The morning also featured a didgeridoo performance by Lyndon Francis, cultural dance performances by Patrick Thaiday and CAID Dreamtime, and community market stalls that provided opportunities to connect, learn and celebrate First Nations culture.

‍

On Tuesday, 7^th July, community members gathered at the Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station for another flag-raising ceremony, where Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton and Mayor Greg Williamson were in attendance. Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dancers brought the elements of the earth to life through a vibrant and expressive cultural performance. The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Dancers accompanied the official flag raising with the rhythmic beat of traditional drums before later showcasing their culture through dance and traditional instruments.

‍

‍

A Murri Court "Elders Evening" was also held last Wednesday, 1^st July, where community members gathered for an evening of culture and connection as they celebrated both elders and the upcoming generations. During the event, Mr Patrick Thaiday and Mrs Florence Pitt were named the 2026 Senior Mr and Mrs NAIDOC in recognition of their ongoing contributions to the community and the positive example they continue to set for future generations.

‍

NAIDOC Week celebrations will conclude this Friday, July 10, with two major community events happening today (Friday, 10^th July). The NAIDOC Street Parade will begin with participants gathering from 9am on Macalister Street before stepping off at 10am. The celebrations will continue with a NAIDOC Family Fun Day at Queens Park from 11am to 3pm.  

‍

The community is encouraged to attend and join in celebrating First Nations culture, history and community spirit, embodying “50 Years of Deadly” across the great lands in which we share.