Honouring Country, culture and connection at Swinburne’s inaugural NAIDOC celebration

Swinburne University of Technology’s Hawthorn campus came alive as students, staff and community members came together for our inaugural NAIDOC celebration. 

Hosted by the Moondani Toombadool Centre, the community event coincided with Indigenous Literacy Day and celebrated the power of storytelling in shaping Indigenous culture across generations through speaking, song, art, weaving and dance.

"As Swinburne continues our Treaty, Truth-Telling and Reconciliation journey, events like this help build understanding, strengthen relationships and create opportunities for meaningful engagement,” says Swinburne’s Pro-Vice Chancellor, Indigenous Engagement, Professor John Evans.

Swinburne's Manager, Indigenous Student Services at the Moondani Toombadool Centre, Joel Boojers said the day was about creating opportunities for everyone to engage with Indigenous culture in meaningful and authentic ways. 

“Seeing so many staff, students and community members come together for our inaugural NAIDOC celebration has been incredibly meaningful,” he says. 
 
“We wanted people to leave with a deeper appreciation of First Nations culture and a greater sense of connection to the stories, knowledge and traditions that continue to shape our communities.”

“In the years ahead, we hope to see the event grow as an empowering platform where Indigenous voices, stories and cultures are celebrated, new connections are formed and where our community can come together in the spirit of respect, curiosity and deep listening.”

Celebrating culture through story, song and dance

The main stage program showcased a variety of First Nations artists celebrating their culture. The day was facilitated by Sean Choolburra, Australia’s leading Indigenous entertainer and opened with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Colin Hunter Jr, setting the tone for a day grounded in connection, culture and Country. 

Artists who took to the main stage included Kuku Yalanji, Jirrbal and Torres Strait Islander artist Kee’Anh, Yorta Yorta Winyarr musician Madi Colville-Walker, as well as Ngiyampaa singer-songwriter and storyteller, Pirritu. 

A highlight of the main stage session was the Elders Yarn, which was moderated by Sean and brought together three respected First Nations voices; revered Mutti Mutti singer-songwriter Kutcha Edwards, proud Gunditjmara storyteller, musician, filmmaker, writer and activist Richard Frankland as well as renowned Yorta Yorta, Wamba Wamba, Mutti Mutti and Boonwurrung artist and cultural leader Maree Clarke. 

Engaging with culture

In addition to the stage performances, interactive workshops and Aboriginal-led activations provided opportunities for attendees to learn directly from First Nations artists and knowledge holders.

Sessions such as a basket weaving workshop led by VET Indigenous Project Officer at Swinburne’s Moondani Vocational Centre for Excellence, Nikki Madgwick, offered insights into the cultural practices, traditions and stories that continue to be shared across generations. 

"For me, weaving is much more than creating a basket. It is a gentle act of self-care through cultural practice that allows me to slow down, quiet my mind and be fully present in the moment," says Nikki. 
 
“It is in this space of stillness that deep listening can occur, stories are shared and connections are strengthened.”

Another highlight of the day was an art workshop by Kamilaroi artist and Swinburne student, Katie Bugden. 

"NAIDOC is a celebration to recognise and uplift the First Peoples of Australia. This year's theme, 50 years of Deadly reminds us that we walk in the footprints of those who came before us, and it is our job to listen to our Elders and continue their legacy so others can benefit from it too," Katie says.

Other sessions included a T-shirt customisation by Aboriginal-owned streetwear brand, Gammin Threads, a yoga session with Bundjalung woman Sarah Brinkhege, traditional Aboriginal sport games with Wanyara as well as men’s and women’s yarning circles led by Moondani Toombadool Centre staff, Jake Edwards and Bianca Mazzuchelli.