Pictured: Benarrawa Community Development Association‘s annual Survival Day Ceremony.
For many, January 26 is a time of mourning and discrimination, for others, it is a time to celebrate officially joining the Australian community as citizens. Most of all, it is an opportunity, and a responsibility, for us all to deepen our understanding of the truth of our nation’s history and the ongoing impacts of colonisation.
Neighbourhood Centres across Queensland marked the day in different ways:
Benarrawa Community Development Association held their annual Survival Day Ceremony. The community joined in solidarity to acknowledge what the date means First Nations people and to the wider community. A community breakfast followed, offering a chance to connect and reflect.
Community Plus+ West End Community House and Community Plus+ Yeronga Community Centre shared this informative video from NITV on their Facebook pages to educate their communities: The history of January 26 explained. A Day of Mourning for some, and celebration for others
Lockyer Community Centre‘s Valley Fest 2024 Event was voted Event of the Year in Lockyer Valley Regional Council Australia Day Awards.
Prospect Community Services and Sarina Neighbourhood Centre both shared information about local citizenship ceremonies, welcoming new Australian citizens into their communities.
NCQ stands in solidarity with our First Nations partners, friends and colleagues. It always was, and always will be, Aboriginal land.