Flag Raising Ceremony Launches NAIDOC Week

A didgeridoo has echoed through Brisbane’s 1 William Street for the precinct’s first ceremonial raising of the Australian, Queensland, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags in recognition of NAIDOC week.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the ceremony, including a traditional Welcome to Country, acknowledged the cultural and historical significance of the 1 William Street site and surrounding areas of the Brisbane River to Traditional Owners.

“NAIDOC Week is a celebration of the history, culture and successes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and our state’s ongoing reconciliation journey,” the Premier said.

“And, there’s plenty to celebrate with Queensland winning five of the 10 National NAIDOC Awards for artistic, cultural and apprenticeship excellence in Cairns over the weekend.

“It highlights the extraordinary talent, commitment and everyday achievements of Indigenous Queenslanders in so many local communities across our great state.”

Minister for Local Government and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Mark Furner said the raising of the four flags represented unity and partnership.

“This year’s national NAIDOC Week theme – Our Languages Matter – has special significance in Queensland,” Mr Furner said.

“The Palaszczuk Government is investing $1 million in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to record, teach and preserve Queensland’s unique Indigenous languages for future generations.

“Less than half of all traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages are still spoken, but those remaining are immensely important for protecting Queensland’s rich Indigenous cultures and connection to Country.”

Mr Furner said key Brisbane and regional Queensland landmarks would be lit in the colours of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags during NAIDOC Week including Parliament House, Story Bridge and Kurilpa Bridge.

“NAIDOC Week is a celebration for all Queenslanders,” Mr Furner said.

For more information about NAIDOC events around Queensland visit www.datsip.qld.gov.au/be-involved/events/events-calendar  

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