Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith today joined Joy Impiombato of Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services (NCNS) and over 1000 kids from 25 schools as they participated in the 2017 NAIDOC Cup and other non-sporting events at Hunter Fields, Emu Plains.
NCNS received a NSW Government grant of $1,700 to support this event which includes Oz tag and Netball along with Traditional Indigenous Games, Cultural experience with Koomurri, Storytelling and Indigenous craft.
Joy Impiombato, General Manager NCNS said this is a huge day for our community with Aboriginal students making up more than 70% of the participants.
“NAIDOC Week is an important opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the tremendous achievements of Aboriginal people here in Penrith and right across the country,” Stuart Ayres said.
NAIDOC, National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee, will run from 2 – 9 July with the theme is ‘Our Languages, Our Way’.
Penrith City Council will also receive $3,000 and in partnership with Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council to provide a variety of activities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and other’s to participate at the NAIDOC celebrations.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Sarah Mitchell said 116 grants totalling $200,000 is invested in local Aboriginal communities right across NSW for this week of celebration.
“The NSW Government recognises the rich and diverse history of Australia’s first people and these grants assist in showcasing our Aboriginal heritage and identity,” Mrs Mitchell said.
For more information on NADIOC Week 2017 celebrations visit www.aboriginalaffairs.nsw.gov.au
