Emmaus Home celebrated NAIDOC Week (7-14 July) through a ranged of opportunities focused on the culture and achievements of our First Nations people.

The NAIDOC Week theme for 2024, “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud” underscores the significance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, intergenerational connections and the important role of elders as custodians of knowledge and traditions passed down to future generations.

The week started with a Bush Damper Morning Tea in the Café, prepared by Lifestyle Coordinator, Jodie McLellan who, as a proud Gurnai-Kurnai (Water People) of East Gippsland, facilitated a traditional campfire morning tea ably supported by kitchen staff Miro, Adam and Lisa. Residents had a great discussion about famous Aboriginal athletes, history and the relevance to today’s culture in context.

On Thursday 11 July, Residents were offered two opportunities for outings; one to the Cinema in Emmaus Village to enjoy a cinema experience with popcorn, and snacks while watching ‘Rabbit Proof Fence’ on the big screen; or a bus trip to the Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery in Kempsey, which was hosting a special expedition displaying the work of local Aboriginal artists, as well as artists from Coffs Harbour and Armidale.

The Lifestyle team says thank you to all the staff at Emmaus Home who help make miracles happen for these large events!