Free NAIDOC event celebrates the next generation's strength, vision and legacy

04 Jul 2025 |
4 July 2025

Southern Downs Regional Council and Darling Downs Health invite the community to come together in celebration of NAIDOC Week 2025 with a free, family-friendly event in Warwick on Wednesday 16 July.

This year’s national theme The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy marks the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week and champions a future shaped by the courage of young leaders, the wisdom of Elders and the legacy of community resilience.

Council spokesperson for Inspired Communities Cr Morwenna Harslett said the special gathering at Victoria Park will be held to honour the enduring culture, strength and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“This event offers the opportunity for everyone to come together, learn and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of First Nations peoples,” Cr Harslett said.

“Council is proud to support NAIDOC Week and the powerful message it carries. The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy speaks to unity, respect and a shared future.

“It reflects a movement that continues to thrive, adapt and grow, powered by the resilience of our people, the unity of our purpose, and the cultural heritage we carry forward.

“I encourage the community to join us at this event to honour both the remarkable achievements of the past and the promise of an enduring future.”

Event Highlights:
• Free community BBQ
• Cultural and creative workshops
• Live music and performances
• Fun kids activities
• Health and wellbeing stalls

Event Details:
• Date: Wednesday 16 July 2025
• Time: 10am – 3pm
• Location: Victoria Park, Warwick

The Warwick event will feature cultural performances, including the Wakka Wakka Dance Group, and an interactive Weaving and Yarning Circle led by First Nations weavers, offering a meaningful space for storytelling and cultural exchange. There’ll also be plenty of hands-on activities and entertainment for all ages.

This event is proudly delivered in partnership by Darling Downs Health and Southern Downs Regional Council, with the support of community organisations including Carbal Medical Services, Lil D’s Pumbaas Mobile Coffee and the Warwick Indigenous Network Group (WING).

All members of the community are invited to attend and take part in a day of connection, creativity and cultural celebration.

Guided by input from local Elders and community members, the event has been scheduled just after the Queensland school holidays to encourage greater participation from students and families.

There are also many other NAIDOC Week events happening across the region.
Goolburri Leslie Park Celebration
Monday 7 July, 10am–3pm
Arts, crafts, food vans, community stalls and more

Headspace River Walk
Wednesday 9 July, 3:30pm
Meet at Tiddalik the Frog in Federation Park, Warwick

Goolburri Elder’s Morning Tea
Thursday 10 July, from 10am
Bushkids, 199 Wood Street, Warwick
Morning tea and a yarn with Elders

Visit www.naidoc.org.au for more information on NAIDOC Week and this year’s national theme.

Last edited date 04 Jul 2025