16 November 2020
Warrant Officer Stephen Weaver said NAIDOC Week provided an opportunity to celebrate the rich culture of Indigenous people.
The Wiradjuri man and RAAF Air Command Indigenous affairs warrant officer spoke at the November 12 NAIDOC Week celebration at RAAF Base Glenbrook.
The event included an Acknowledgement of Country, traditional dance, a smoking ceremony, musical performances with traditional instruments and an art display.
Warrant Officer Weaver paid his respects to the traditional owners of the land, the Darug and Gundungurra people, and talked about the significance of NAIDOC Week.
“NAIDOC Week is important to Defence as we recognise the rich history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” he said.
“We are the longest-surviving culture on earth. We are resilient, resourceful and proud, and have much to teach.
“Defence NAIDOC Week allows us to stand together as one, committed to reconciliation and closing the gap by maintaining strong connections with Indigenous communities.
“This year in particular, with NAIDOC Week and Remembrance Day being held in the same week, we can also pay our respects to those First Nations’ people who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of our nation’s interests.”
