East Lake Macquarie students celebrate Indigenous culture

More than 150 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from five east Lake Macquarie schools gathered at Floraville Public School for the Karabang Karnival ahead of NAIDOC Week.

Relieving Principal, Vanessa Linstrom, said the Karnival was a great opportunity for students and staff to share and celebrate their knowledge and practice of Indigenous culture.

“We had a full day of activities including cultural and history workshops, collaborative and individual artwork, cooking, sport and yidaki playing,” Ms Linstrom said.

“We were delighted to welcome community elders, including Aunty Laurel and staff from other local schools, and Knights players, Fletcher Hunt and Dylan Lucas.

“On the following day we acknowledged the outstanding service of our canteen supervisor Margaret Osborne, who has been at the school for more than 35 years.

“There was a farewell clap-out, and while she’ll be sorely missed, we wish her all the very best for her future away from the canteen.”

Students and staff joining those from Floraville Public School were from the Belmont, Belmont North and Jewells Public schools, and from Belmont High School.

Walters Road Public School Celebrates NAIDOC Week with Walk On Country

Walters Road Public School in Blacktown proudly commenced its NAIDOC Week celebrations with a meaningful Walk On Country led by Aboriginal staff and students.

This special event provided a valuable opportunity to deepen understanding and respect for Aboriginal culture, while putting into practice the Dharug Dhalang that students have been enthusiastically learning over the past 18 months.

The Walk On Country took participants on a journey to significant sites, including a traditional gunyah at Glenbrook and the iconic Three Sisters rock formation at Katoomba.

Along the way, students and staff listened to the powerful story of the origins of the Three Sisters, enriching their connection to the land and its stories.

Acknowledging the rich cultural heritage of the area, Walters Road Public School respectfully recognises both the Gundungurra and Dharug peoples as the Traditional Owners and custodians of the land. Katoomba, situated on the overlapping borders of these lands, holds deep significance for both communities.

This immersive experience fostered a strong sense of belonging, pride, and cultural appreciation among students and staff alike.

Walters Road Public School remains committed to nurturing meaningful cultural connections and promoting respect for Aboriginal history and traditions.

Lugarno Public School stundents deepen their understanding of the local Bidjigal people

Lugarno Public School celebrated NAIDOC Week with a special incursion that provided students with meaningful opportunities to learn about Aboriginal culture and connection to Country.

The day began with a sweeping ceremony; an important cultural practice that welcomes people onto Country and symbolises cleansing, respect, and acknowledgement of Aboriginal traditions.

Throughout the day, students participated in stage-based sessions in the school hall as part of the Nura Country program.

They explored Aboriginal perspectives and deepened their understanding of the Georges River and its cultural significance to the Bidjigal people, the Traditional Custodians of the area.

Students learned how the river has supported community life for thousands of years, providing food, resources, and a place for gathering and storytelling.

The day concluded with a collaborative whole-school artwork, with every student contributing to a shared piece symbolising unity, respect, and connection. The finished artwork now stands as a lasting reminder of the shared learning experience.

North Ryde Public School student wins NAIDOC school art competition

A Year 6 North Ryde Public School student, Hayley, has won the NAIDOC School Art Competition run by The Rocks Discovery Museum.

Hayley's artwork will be displayed from 4 July to 31 July in the Attic at the Museum.

At the special awards ceremony, Haley will receive a certificate, books and lollies.

The Museum said they were delighted to celebrte the creativity and talent shown in Hayley's artwork.

"Thank you for being part of this year's competition and for helping us honour and share the stories, culture and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," The Museum said.

A Didjeribone Show at Oatley West Public School

Oatley West Public School celebrated NAIDOC Week in style with a with a special assembly, followed by the raising of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, recognising the rich histories, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

To finish the term, students enjoyed the engaging Didjeribone Show, where they learnt about Indigenous culture through music, storytelling and laughter.

Carlton Public School students "feel deadly" at NAIDOC Week celebrations

Carlton Public School joined in the NAIDOC celebrations with their “I feel deadly when…” reflection.

Students and staff shared personal moments, achievements, and relationships that made them feel proud, strong, and confident.

The activity fostered rich conversations and highlighted the unique strengths and individuality within the school community, creating a strong sense of inclusion and pride.

One of the standout features of the week was the whole-school handprint display.

Each student contributed a handprint, symbolising unity, respect, and the importance of every individual in our community.

The vibrant display captured the spirit of the week and served as a powerful reminder that by walking together and learning from the past, we continue to build a more connected, respectful, and inclusive school for the future.

Alex Park students celebrate NAIDOC Week

As part of NAIDOC Week celebrations, Alexandria Park Community School proudly hosted the “50 Years Deadly: Next Gen NSW Emergency Services Careers Expo".

This exciting event provided all Year 10 students with the opportunity to engage with representatives from a range of NSW Emergency Services and explore future career pathways across police, fire, ambulance, defence and related industries.

Students gained valuable insight into the skills, training and personal qualities required to serve and lead within these important fields.

The school also welcomed special guests - First Nations students from Matraville and Tempe High schools - strengthening a shared commitment to connection, culture, community and opportunity.

It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate NAIDOC Week, recognise the strength and leadership of First Nations peoples and inspire the next generation of young people to consider meaningful careers serving their communities

The school launched its 2026 NAIDOC Week celebrations with the inaugural NAIDOC Trivia Bonanza.

High school students enthusiastically participated in a Jeopardy-style competition, putting their knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, cultures, achievements and significant events to the test in a spirited contest between the school houses.

The primary students also joined in the celebrations, participating in their own engaging NAIDOC quiz competition featuring teachers and students and filled with enthusiasm, teamwork and friendly rivalry.

The activity encouraged students to deepen their understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures in a fun and interactive way.

The launch highlighted the school's commitment to celebrating and honouring the rich histories, cultures and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, setting the tone for a meaningful week of activities across the school.

Stage 3 Indigenous Leaders also proudly led the school's NAIDOC morning tea.

Students organised the event, welcoming guests with an Acknowledgement of Country and sharing special presentations about the significance of NAIDOC Week and the 2026 theme.

Guests enjoyed student-led talks, highlighting what NAIDOC Week meant to the school community. The morning tea also featured delicious treats including some with bush tucker ingredients.

New England small schools celebrate NAIDOC Week

NAIDOC Week, falling in the school holidays this year, hasn’t stopped six small schools from the Tamworth area celebrating a NAIDOC day.

More than 150 students gathered at Somerton Public School for a day of Aboriginal culture; from food and storytelling to language, painting and traditional games.

Relieving Principal, Krystal te Groen, said the celebration reflected how Aboriginal culture was embedded in the school's work year-round.

“Inclusion across our schools is a big incentive for families to enrol their children with us,” said Ms te Groen said.

“Acknowledging the unbroken connection, between Aboriginal history and the culture’s place today, is important for all students in understanding their place and role in society.”

The day started with Johnny Cakes on the barbeque, followed by a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country by Aboriginal educator Odee, who also led the Gamilaraay language group.

The other rotation activities included storytelling, painting with sticks and ochre onto bark, and traditional games led by Peel High School students.

Lemon myrtle chicken, saltbush chicken and a NAIDOC Day cake were the lunch highlights.

In addition to Somerton’s students, peers from the Attunga, Currabubula, Duri, Moonbi and Woolomin Public schools attended.

Mural features at La Perouse Public School NAIDOC Week celebrations

La Perouse Public School celebrated 50 years of Deadly with a unique mural featuring the hands of students, staff and community.

Students also celebrated NAIDOC Week with cultural activities that honoured the rich history, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Students made pastries using local native ingredients such as Salt Bush and Warrigal greens found around the local area.

Students participated in traditional weaving, stories, Dharawal language lessons and native animal art creations.

Students learnt about, and participated in, traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander games.

A video is in the works and will be published to the La Perouse Facebook and Instagram pages.