Published on Tuesday, 13 July 2021 at 8:47:40 AM
GRAMS NAIDOC Elders Luncheon
The communities across the Midwest and Gascoyne Murchison came together last week to share and celebrate Indigenous culture, heritage and achievements as part of Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service’s (GRAMS) NAIDOC week celebrations.
This year’s theme is Heal Country! - which calls for stronger measures to recognise, protect, and maintain all aspects of First Nations’ culture and heritage.
GRAMS held multiple events in the lead up to and during NAIDOC week to reflect on the importance of preserving Indigenous culture and land, including a youth program at Rangeway Primary School, Morning NAIDOC BBQ, Heal Country Tree Planting Ceremony and Elders NAIDOC Luncheon.
This year was GRAMS’ first time hosting a tree planting ceremony and GRAMS Health Promotions Officer, David Batty said that they wanted to do something different for this year’s NAIDOC Week to bring attention to healing Country and what that means.
“NAIDOC Week is about celebrating the richness and resilience of First Nations People, our history, culture and stories,” said David Batty.
“By panting native plants, we can watch our culture grow and heal our Country while keeping us grounded and connected.”
“Through ceremonies and preserving traditions, we can keep our culture alive and stay connected to Country.”
Carnarvon Gascoyne Outreach Service Aboriginal Liaison & Outreach Officer, Diane Moncrieff said it’s important to share healing traditions with the community and future generations to move towards a healed Country.
“The tree planting and smoking ceremony encouraged us to appreciate how we still heal our spirit, body, mind, and soul on Country,” said Diane Moncrieff.
“Many communities still have access to traditional healing practices such as bush medicines and spiritual healing smoking ceremony.”
“Healing gives us back to ourselves and to our Country. There are many ways that we can heal and we’re glad to be able to share that experience with the community.”
GRAMS Chief Executive Officer, Deborah Woods GRAMS said it was rewarding to see the community come together to celebrate NAIDOC Week and participate in cultural ceremonies and share stories.
“NAIDOC is celebrated not only by Indigenous people, but by all Australians from all walks of life,” said Deborah Woods.
“Promoting, sharing and valuing our Indigenous culture is important to empower our people to heal and strengthen our Aboriginal identity.”
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