For over a decade, Anglicare’s Ashmont Community Resource Centre (ACRC) has hosted annual NAIDOC Week celebrations—and once again this year’s event was absolutely deadly!
Hundreds gathered outside the centre on the sunny and unseasonably warm day. However, the record attendance was about more than just the weather. Over many years, the ACRC has built strong relationships within the local community through meaningful programs such as the Lifetime Learning parenting program, Survive & Thrive, the HIPPY program, and Aunty Jean’s Elders Group.
This year’s celebration began with a Welcome to Country from Aunty Mary Atkinson, followed by performances by cultural dance group Marrambidya Yurall Waga-Dhaanys and the Ashmont Primary School Dance group, Waganha Biladha. The final performance brought the two groups together, with everyone in attendance invited to join in—filling the dancefloor with shuffling feet and swinging arms.
To celebrate 50 Years of NAIDOC, the team prepared a special video highlighting the history of both NAIDOC and the centre over the years. The video was shown on a large outdoor screen—and more than one viewer was reminded of their early days with the Ashmont team.
On the main stage renowned local singer, Nathan Lamont entertained the crowd with songs and stories. His rendition of Pink Pony Club proved especially popular with the children. Lunch included a sausage sizzle, kangaroo stew, brownies and lemon myrtle cookies.
Staff at the ACRC are grateful to be trusted by the local community and feel fortunate to be able host collaborative and well-attended celebrations like this. “It is really wonderful that so many people in the Wagga community want to be part of the Ashmont Community NAIDOC Day” said Jasmine Woodland, Anglicare’s Senior Manager of Child, Youth, Family & Health.
Chanel 7 News was onsite, interviewing team members, performers and community members. Click to watch Chanel 7’s coverage of the event.
To Learn more about Anglicare’s services in Wagga Wagga visit our Ashmont Community Resource Centre page.
