On Sunday 7 July, National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sunday, the Diocese alongside the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle, co-hosted an ecumenical prayer service at Christ Church Cathedral.

The event honoured the rich cultural heritage and contributions of our Indigenous People.

Then, on Monday 8 July, hundreds of people gathered at Foreshore Park for Awabakal Newcastle’s NAIDOC Community Day.

The Diocese and CatholicCare Social-Services Hunter-Manning were sponsors of the event and offered face painting, arts and craft, and shared some ‘fun facts’ about the work of the Diocese. 

Staff from Pastoral Ministries, CatholicCare , the Catholic Schools Office, St Nicholas Early Education and Hunter Community Housing were all on hand to run the activities and introduce people to the work of the Diocese.

This year's NAIDOC Week theme is “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud” and that ethos was certainly on display.

The event started in Civic Park for the official Welcome to Country and flag-raising ceremony, before the crowd marched and chanted their way into Foreshore Park. 

The atmosphere was buzzing with rides, music, cultural activities, food stalls and traditional dance performances. 

Comedian and former The Block contestant, Andy Saunders emceed the event along with several guest speakers. 

The Diocese is committed to reconciliation and continuing to honour the rich culture and history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

Check out the event gallery below!

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