QPS raises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags for NAIDOC

The vibrant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags are flying high in Brisbane after a flag-raising ceremony at Police Headquarters today in recognition of the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC).

Police Minister Bill Byrne joined Queensland Police Commissioner Ian Stewart at the important event.

This year’s NAIDOC Week theme, Songlines - The living narrative of our nation, was celebrated at a breakfast after the ceremony.

“For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, Songlines or Dreaming tracks crisscross Australia and trace the journeys of ancestral spirits as they created the land, animals and lores,” Minister Byrne said.

He said the week, which runs from July 3 to 10, was an important time to embrace and celebrate the culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – the First Australians.

Commissioner Stewart said the theme highlighted the importance of Songlines as a central part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history.

“This theme reflects our nation’s oldest living narrative, a part of our history we can all learn from and deeply respect,” he said.

“Dreaming tracks or Songlines record the travels of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ancestral spirits who ‘sung’ the land into life.

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have been able to share their histories and keep a deep spiritual connection to land through their Songlines.”

Commissioner Stewart said today’s ceremony was a chance to come together in celebration of the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“Every year the QPS joins Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to raise their flag. It’s an important event and an important time of year for us in the QPS to pay our respects to the traditional owners of the land,” Commissioner Stewart said.

Minister Byrne encouraged Australians to learn more about Songlines in their region and get involved in NAIDOC events.

“The Queensland Government will continue to work across communities, from Brisbane to Bamaga to Burketown towards long-term solutions,” Minister Byrne said.

“We will also continue to celebrate the successes and reaffirm our friendships.”

For a 2016 NAIDOC Week program, including a statewide calendar of events and online resources, visit: www.datsip.qld.gov.au/naidoc.

Media contacts

Minister Byrne: 0400 622 433

Police Media: (07) 3015 2444