NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. It is a week-long national celebration in Australia that honours the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Each year, all three schools within the Dianella Education Precinct — Dianella Primary College, Dianella Secondary College Education Support Centre and Dianella Secondary College — come together for an assembly to honour them in this land that we share.

This Friday was no different as we gathered together for this year’s NAIDOC Assembly. It was a truly heartfelt and moving morning, and we were privileged to have Aboriginal Elder Brad Jacobs deliver a Welcome to Country and lead us through a powerful Smoking Ceremony. We were also inspired by Travis Taylor’s personal journey through adversity, which he shared with delightful humor. Zero Emcee captivated us with his energy and passion during his rapping performance and additionally, our wonderful student choir led the audience through some well-rehearsed Noongar songs that still ring through our minds due to their catchiness.

As part of this celebration, students were recognised from all three schools who demonstrated outstanding cultural pride, leadership, and commitment to community. In line with this year’s NAIDOC theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” these awards celebrated our young leaders who carry forward the strength of their heritage, the vision for a better future, and the legacy of those who came before them.

Thank you to Mr. Katz for taking photos of the event today, and a massive thanks to all the students, staff, families, and special guests who helped bring this event to life.

A big thank you to all the students who worked tirelessly to bring this event to life, and to our special guests and families for joining us in paying tribute to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and communities.