9 July 2024
North Metropolitan TAFE (NMTAFE) celebrated NAIDOC Week earlier this year, with an exciting event at our Joondalup (Kendrew) campus.
This year’s theme: Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud, celebrates the unyielding spirit of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
The event was hosted by our Diploma of Event Management students with support from Koolark, Centre for Aboriginal Students.
Held at Joondalup campus’ “Yellagonga Meeting Place” which is named after the Whadjuk leader who played a pivotal role in welcoming and protecting settlers two centuries ago, the event was a vibrant celebration of First Nations culture and heritage.
The festivities kicked off with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony – a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and respecting First Nations traditions.
More than 120 staff, students, community and local business representatives attended, enjoying native and traditional foods (a delicious kangaroo curry and bush tomato soup) and a dance and music performance by Binjareb, highlighting the significance of storytelling and performance in First Nations culture.
Guests were welcomed to the event by our Governing Council Chair and Yamatji woman, Dr Mara West. Followed by our Managing Director, Michelle Hoad, who took the opportunity to speak about the College’s commitment to including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives and culture.
The event also featured a stunning display of Indigenous artwork, showcasing local artists. Commemorative tote bags were also screen printed for guests to take home.
Learn more about our Koolark, Centre for Aboriginal Students located at both our Perth and Joondalup (Kendrew) campuses. Find out how to Be More and start your career in event management with our Event courses.(opens in a new tab)