Alpine Shire Council celebrated NAIDOC Week with a flag raising and smoking ceremony in front of the Council office in Bright this morning.
The ceremony celebrated five decades of NAIDOC Week, a national event that recognises the histories, cultures, and lived experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Taungurung Elder, Uncle Glen Austin, welcomed community members to Taungurung Country with a smoking ceremony, acknowledging the smoke as a means of cleansing under the presence of Bunjil, the wedge-tailed eagle.
This was followed by a grounding practice led by Gamilaroi health and wellness facilitator, Lee Couch, before the raising of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, said that this special event was an opportunity to celebrate, learn about and honour the histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"NAIDOC has grown from the early sorry days about a hundred years ago and is one of the oldest civil rights gatherings in the world," she said.
"It is events like these, and the NAIDOC Celebration in Myrtleford this Saturday organised by one of our outstanding citizens, Lee Couch, that bring people like us together to learn about the past and present of First Nations peoples so that we can work together to build and celebrate the future.
"I respectfully recognise the deep connection and carrying of stories that care for this land, for Country, variously with a base in astronomy, seasonal indicators, and other phenomena that support natural balance.
"Here's to fifty more years of celebrating NAIDOC, and the strength and achievements of First Nations peoples."
The event was attended by a representative from Gellung Warl, staff members from Alpine Shire Council, Ambulance Victoria, Indigo Shire Council, Myrtleford P-12, and Parks Victoria, and children and staff from Alpine View Children's Centre.
Community members are invited to the Piazza in Myrtleford from 10am to 1pm this Saturday, 11 July 2026 to continue celebrating NAIDOC Week.
This event will mark the third annual event in Myrtleford, with a healing circle facilitated by Lee Couch, entertainment from Brett Lee and Madi Colville Walker, cultural activities, and market stalls.