Local families, children and community members came together at the Red Cliffs Early Years Hub in July to celebrate NAIDOC Week and the strong community spirit that continues to shape the hub’s future.
Supported by Hands up Mallee and Mildura Rural City Council, the free community event featured an interactive wildlife experience with EnviroEdu, craft activities from Red Cliffs Library, toys from Sunraysia Toy Library, a community BBQ hosted by Red Cliffs Rotary Club, free coffee provided through Connected Beginnings and Curly Top Espresso, and kangaroo soup prepared by local chef Tamara Marshall.
Local families have played in the development of the Hub, from advocating for the building to continuing to shape and guide how the hub works and leading ongoing activities such as NAIDOC week through the Hub Leadership Group.
Reflecting on the day, Aunty Colleen Johnson said, “Today was a beautiful day in Red Cliffs for people to come together. It was a celebration for mob to connect, share culture and celebrate the NAIDOC Week. The highlight was the Snake Lady and the kangaroo soup, which everyone enjoyed. There were lots of children with smiles on their faces, and the day was all about connection with everyone coming together as one to celebrate.”
Community member and Hub Leadership Group member Montana Treffene said, “I think the NAIDOC event at Red Cliffs Early Years Hub was fantastic. I have learnt about the history of the Latji Latji and other Aboriginal people through other football ladies and friends who have shared their knowledge, and it was great to come together as a community to celebrate the NAIDOC Week. The hub is such a welcoming space and has so much potential to bring different services and opportunities together for local families and community members.”