Celebrating NAIDOC Week 2024 with Community Collaboration

NAIDOC Week 2024: Community Collaboration and Cultural Preservation

Last week, in recognition of the significance of NAIDOC Week, David Crowhurst sat down with Jarrod Smith, Director of our preferred delivery partner, Girri Birrang, and respected Elder and CEO of Murrin Bridge Local Aboriginal Lands Council (LALC), Narelle Hall, in a special Live Stream event to discuss the importance of community collaboration, cultural preservation, and the positive impacts of our joint initiatives.

Key Takeaways from the Discussion

We were inspired to hear the perspectives of Narelle and Jarrod. Key takeaways from the discussion included the importance of integrating cultural components into training programs and the transformative impact these initiatives have on local communities.

Relationship Between Murrin Bridge LALC, Girri Birrang, and Diona

When asked to describe the relationship between Murrin Bridge LALC, Girri Birrang, and Diona, Narelle said: “While working at Lake Cargelligo TAFE, I helped bring together a joint initiative by Girri Birrang and Diona. This program enabled local Indigenous youths to gain construction jobs with Girri Birrang, providing them with essential skills and, importantly, incorporating a cultural component. This experience has really changed our approach at Murrin Bridge LALC, guiding us in how to better protect and preserve the cultural sites within our region.”

We are exceptionally proud of the success of this program and the impact it has had on the community.

Girri Birrang’s Motto: Bridging Horizons, Building Futures

When asked about how Girri Birrang’s motto “Bridging Horizons, Building Futures” reflects the company’s vision, Jarrod put it simply: “We strongly believe in supporting community and Indigenous youth. We were the major sponsors of Orange United Warriors at last weekend’s Indigenous Round at Wade Park – an Indigenous community involvement opportunity introduced to us by Narelle. It’s not just about being the sponsor of a team but an opportunity to connect with the locals and have those discussions around how we might be able to help them. I am passionate about trades and upskilling people in trades and for me, bridging horizons and building futures is about making connections and finding out how we can help the community succeed and go further. Being an Indigenous Australian myself, this is the way I like to approach business.”

Volunteer Initiative for Murrin Bridge LALC Property

Jarrod also shared a touching story about visiting a property owned by the Murrin Bridge LALC with Narelle. It consists of a few basic living quarters, and he wants to pull together a group of volunteers to help freshen it up so it can be used for local events or even school camps. This initiative aligns perfectly with Girri Birrang’s motto of “Bridging Horizons, Building Futures,” which for Jarrod, is about empowering others, helping to upskill them, and providing support.

Looking Ahead: Trade-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships

Looking ahead, Jarrod wants to see the introduction of trade-based apprenticeships and traineeships in the ongoing relationship between Diona and Girri Birrang. This will further enhance our commitment to community development and support for Indigenous youth.

NAIDOC Week Theme: Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud

Speaking about this year’s NAIDOC Week theme, “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud,” Narelle reflected on growing up in the 80s when she wasn’t allowed to talk about her culture or be proud of being Aboriginal. She shared that this year’s theme encourages Indigenous Australians to be strong, connected, and proud of who they are. It celebrates the oldest culture in the world and emphasises the importance of sharing and celebrating it.

Join us in celebrating NAIDOC Week and honouring the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous Australians. Let’s keep the fire burning!