Raymond Terrace march brings NAIDOC celebrations to a close

RAYMOND Terrace concluded NAIDOC celebrations with a street march on Monday 28 July.

The march marked the final day of NAIDOC in Port Stephens, where events have taken place since 3 July.

“The cold and windy weather did not deter a huge crowd who joined us for the NAIDOC week community march and family fun day,” said Mayor Leah Anderson who called it “an event to remember”.

This year’s theme was “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”.

It was a celebration of the ongoing culture and community of young Indigenous Australians, while recognising the history and achievements of past generations.

“NAIDOC 2025 [is] a time for all Australians to learn, reflect and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” a spokesperson for Port Stephens Council said.

Students at local schools had the opportunity to learn more about Aboriginal culture through NAIDOC, and several schools joined in the march.

“It may have been wild and windy, but that didn’t stop us having a fabulous day at the NAIDOC March and Family Fun Day,” a spokesperson for Bobs Farm Public School said.

“It’s a long way uphill for little legs but the smiles on the faces told us that didn’t matter one bit, and the fun and excitement at the top made it all worth it.”

By Cosette DE LORENZO