In July, Lou’s Place celebrated National NAIDOC Week. This year’s theme, “50 Years of Deadly,” honoured 50 years of the NAIDOC movement and celebrated the strength, pride and resilience of First Nations peoples and culture.
The week was filled with creativity and connection, with activities shaped by ideas shared by the women at Lou’s Place. Women used native materials such as emu feathers to make jewellery, painted tote bags and boomerangs, joined a weaving workshop with Malima, and participated in a yarning circle and art session with Mirri Mirri.
Mirri Mirri shared the history of NAIDOC and taught us about Tasmanian Aboriginal warrior Tarenorerer. Clients were also given NAIDOC T-shirts to wear and show their solidarity and support for First Nations culture.
Food was a highlight, with a range of native condiments served at breakfast throughout the week, including lilli pilli jam, finger lime marmalade and lemon myrtle butter. Our wonderful kitchen volunteer Sarah prepared kangaroo stew with damper from ‘Aunty Beryl’s Cookbook’, as well as wattle seed and lemon myrtle cupcakes. The week finished with a native-inspired BBQ featuring native spices and sauces.
It was a truly special week, offering opportunities to learn, share and celebrate First Nations culture.
