RECOGNISING the sacrifices made by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people during times of war was the theme behind Leeton Shire Council's NAIDOC Week celebrations on Wednesday.
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NAIDOC Week is held each year during the first full week of July, but council chooses to mark the occasion earlier to ensure schools from across the shire could participate in the ceremony.
This year's event was held at Anzac Hall and started with the playing of a didgeridoo by Elijah Moore, which he also made.
Council community services officer Jackson Goman welcomed the many community members and school students to the event and was pleased by the continued support for NAIDOC Week.
Deputy mayor George Weston spoke on behalf of mayor Paul Maytom and said the event had become an opportunity for the community and schools to join together as one.
"NAIDOC Week is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torrest Strait Islander cultures and (a time) to formally acknowledge the contributions and heritage of the first Australians and their descendants that live in our communities," councillor Weston said.
"The 2014 theme of NAIDOC Week,Serving Country: Centenary and Beyond, acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women who have fought in defence of our country.
"The strength and determination of Aboriginal people can be recognised here today as we celebrate the culture in our communities.
"I would like to extend a big thank you to those schools that are represented here today.
"The schools and young people will ensure our communities continue to advance in harmony into the future."
Parkview Public School students performed a dance titled Warriors to depict the sacrifice Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people made for Australia during war time.
The event was rounded out by a flag-raising ceremony of the Aboriginal and Australian flags at the Leeton Visitor Information Centre, which was followed by morning tea.
The Leeton and District Local Aboriginal Land Council will host its NAIDOC Week event on July 10 at Gossamer Park from 11am to 2pm.