This year’s theme, “50 Years of Deadly,” marks five decades of celebrating Indigenous excellence, resilience and leadership while looking ahead to a future shaped by strength, pride and self-determination.

As part of this year’s celebrations, staff gathered at Grand Round on Thursday 2 July for a presentation by Dr Harrison, Consultant Emergency Physician at The Royal Melbourne Hospital and Australia’s first Indigenous Emergency Physician.

Reflecting on this year’s NAIDOC theme, Dr Harrison highlighted the importance of a strengths-based approach to Aboriginal health, recognising the commitment Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continue to demonstrate towards their health and wellbeing. He also spoke candidly about the impact of systemic racism within healthcare and challenged health services to create systems that are culturally safe, accountable and Aboriginal-led.

His presentation reinforced the importance of embedding Aboriginal health across all aspects of the organisation through sustained investment in workforce development, cultural safety, governance, partnerships and measurable improvements in health outcomes.

On Friday 3 July, the Narrun Wilip-giin Aboriginal Support Unit, in partnership with Kilmore District Hospital, hosted a NAIDOC Week Flag Raising Ceremony at Kilmore District Hospital.

The event commenced with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Taungurung Elder and Traditional Owner Aunty Jo Honeysett, providing a meaningful and respectful beginning to the celebrations.

The ceremony brought together staff, community members and guests, including Elder Darryl Leggo, who shared reflections with those gathered.

Blair Colwell, Mental Health Aboriginal Liaison Officer acting as the MC said, “NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all of us to come together to celebrate the strength, resilience and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Creating culturally safe spaces where people feel welcomed, respected, safe and heard is essential to improving health and wellbeing, and events like these help strengthen our connections with community.”

A highlight of the morning was the participation of children from the local kindergarten, who joined in activities and helped create a vibrant atmosphere of community, connection and celebration.

Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Adjunct Professor Debra Bourne reflected on Northern Health’s ongoing commitment to cultural safety and partnership with Aboriginal communities. “At Northern Health, we remain committed to strengthening cultural safety across our organisation, supporting Aboriginal leadership and workforce growth, and working in genuine partnership with Aboriginal communities to improve health outcomes. These commitments are not just words on a page; they are part of our ongoing journey together.”

There are still opportunities for staff to be part of this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations:

• Staff BBQ: Join us in the Northern Hospital courtyard on Wednesday 8 July, generously supported by the ISS team.
• NAIDOC Staff Quiz: Test your knowledge and go into the draw to win a prize.

Join us in these activities and take the opportunity to reflect on the significance of NAIDOC Week as we work together to foster a culturally safe, inclusive and respectful environment for all.