NAIDOC week is always a vibrant celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

This year, a multitude of events were held across Canberra - from camp-side yarns to dance/corroberee and digeridoo playing, from immersive Indigenous art exhibits to traditional weaving workshops - there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Ms Pru Rolff, Educational Delivery Manager at the School for Medicine and Psychology, embraced the “Get up! Stand up! Show up! theme by participating in the 18th Annual NAIDOC touch football carnival on Wednesday, 6 July. With 28 participating teams and over 300 participants, it was a fun-filled, spirited competition that brought Indigenous and non-Indigenous players together.

The day commenced with an inspiring Welcome to Country delivered by Ngunnawal Elder Aunty Violet Sheridan, followed by almost 100 games of Touch Football.

Ms Rolff’s team, the Australian Research Council, made the Grand Final and went down 6 to 3 to a very determined Department of Defence team.

“To me, NAIDOC Week is a chance to celebrate and reflect with the wonderful Indigenous people in my community that I have been fortunate to get to know.”

Ms Rolff continued, “It gives us a chance to recognise our Aboriginal and Indigenous cultures within Australia, and creates greater opportunities for learning and understanding.”

“This is a time that allows Aboriginal people and the wider community across Australia to appreciate and share with everyone their rich and diverse cultures. NAIDOC week offers a platform for us to connect together, to be proud and united as one.”