Mackay & Whitsunday Events Share In NAIDOC Week Funding Boost

Mackay NAIDOC Incorporated's Street Parade and Family Fun Day is among local events receiving State Government funding ahead of this year's NAIDOC Week celebrations. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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NAIDOC Week celebrations across Mackay and the Whitsundays will receive a funding boost this year, with three local events sharing in State Government grants to mark the 50th anniversary of the annual celebration.

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More than $170,000 has been allocated to 59 community-led events across Queensland through the NAIDOC Grants Program, with funding designed to support activities that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, heritage and community connections.

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In the Mackay region, Mackay NAIDOC Incorporated received funding for its Street Parade and Family Fun Day in East Mackay, while the George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association secured support for its NAIDOC Week at The Neighbourhood Hub event.

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In the Whitsundays, Yooribaya Cultural Experiences Pty Ltd was awarded funding for its "Together by the Sea: NAIDOC 2026" celebration in Airlie Beach.

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National NAIDOC Week will be held from the 5th to the 12th of July under the theme "50 Years of Deadly", recognising half a century of celebrating and honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culture and achievements.

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Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said the grants helped communities deliver meaningful local celebrations.

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“As we celebrate Fifty Years of Deadly, our NAIDOC Grants not only pay respect to the strength of our Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples, but they also amplify the impact of community events,” Minister Simpson said.

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“It is inspiring to see communities from Brisbane to Bamaga committing to coming together during NAIDOC Week to recognise and celebrate the unique cultural heritage of our First Peoples.

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“The Government is a proud supporter of these community-led initiatives, which celebrate the rich 50-year history and traditions of the world’s oldest continuous living culture.”

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The grants program provides up to $2,500 for eligible events and activities, helping local organisers deliver community celebrations, cultural activities, yarning circles and family-friendly events during NAIDOC Week.

This year's celebrations carry added significance as communities across Australia mark the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, reflecting on five decades of recognising and celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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Minister Simpson said the grants supported practical outcomes at a community level.

“The Crisafulli Government remains committed to practical support to deliver tangible outcomes for our Aboriginal peoples and our Torres Strait Islander peoples,” she said.

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Local residents are encouraged to take part in NAIDOC Week events across Mackay and the Whitsundays when celebrations begin in July.

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