Celebrating Country: Noosa Civic
Celebrating Australia’s First Nations people as well as a beloved Australian character is all part of the holiday fun at Noosa Civic, as Sarah Vercoe discovers.
Celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, NAIDOC Week is an important event for all Australians. Held in July each year and centred around a theme, this year will focus on healing country as celebrations highlight the need for greater protection for our land.
Noosa Civic Marketing Manager Aimee Dodge said it was important that NAIDOC Week be commemorated with First Nations people sharing their culture with the community at the centre.
“We’re incredibly lucky to be welcoming two talented indigenous artists to the centre for NAIDOC Week,” Aimee said.
Popular children’s book author, storyteller and musician Gregg Dreise will be in-centre, celebrating country and culture throughout the week with storytelling and music for children. A descendant of of the Kamilaroi and Euahlayi people, Gregg is a talented storyteller with an inherent passion for sharing indigenous culture through high-energy performances that use didgeridoo, guitar and comedy.
“We’re incredibly grateful to have Gregg coming to the centre,” Aimee said. “His approach to sharing indigenous culture with children is fun and educational and we’re delighted to have him share his stories,” she said.
Gregg will be inviting children to learn more about NAIDOC Week, indigenous culture and diversity with interactive dance sessions over three days.
“We’re also excited to welcome renowned artist Ryhia Dank of Nardurna Art for a live painting session,” Aimee said. “People will get to see Ryhia’s artistic process and how she creates her beautiful artwork.”
You may have seen the colourful work of this talented artist gracing the cover of our sister publication, Hello Sunshine Magazine. Describing her painting as ‘storywork’ Ryhia brings the tales of her ancestors and country to life through her beautiful and provocative artworks. You can also find out more about Ryhia on our “Everyone Has A Story” podcast.
“To see such talent in progress will be a fantastic way to honour NAIDOC Week,” Aimee said.
With two very different yet equally as engaging celebrations at Noosa Civic during NAIDOC Week sharing the importance of our cultural heritage and diversity with young children will be a fun and inspiring experience.
As a hub where locals can shop but also engage in community, Noosa Civic is committed to providing more than a shopping experience. It’s a great place for children to be part of the community, whether that be via the Community Pantry, exhibits featured around the centre or via visiting entertainers.
If your little ones have spent time anywhere near ABC Kids over the last couple of years they’ve no doubt fallen in love with Bluey.
Noosa Civic will be hosting a Bluey Meet and Greet these winter school holidays, with everyone’s favourite Blue Heeler visiting the centre.
“We’re thrilled to be welcoming Bluey to Noosa Civic these school holidays,” Aimee said. “She’ll be here for lots of smiles, photos, and plenty of flossing! We’ll also have a Bluey colouring station outside Big W.”
Tickets are free but with limited numbers so registration is essential.
NAIDOC WEEK
Gregg DreisE Storytelling, music and interactive dance sessions.
Monday 5 July, Tuesday 6 July and Friday 9 July, 10am – 11am. Free
Ryhia Dank Painting live
Thursday 8 July, 10am – 3pm. Free
SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN
Whakadoo! Bluey is coming!
Tuesday 29 & Wednesday 30 June.
Five sessions available each day.
Tickets are free with limited numbers. Registration is essential.
Visit www.noosacivic.com.au
YOUNG ARTIST AWARD
As part of Noosa Alive!
Don’t miss your chance to win the Noosa Alive Young Artist Award. Using paints, pens or pencils create an A3 or A4 poster of what ‘Nature in Noosa’ means to you. Maybe it’s the ocean, river, parks, people or wildlife?
There are great prizes including a $100 Noosa Civic Gift Card. Entries will be displayed in Noosa Civic Shopping Centre from Monday 28 June with the winners to be announced at the free Picnic in the Park on 17 July as part of Noosa Alive! Entries close on 25 June 2021 so get creating!
Find out more at www.noosacivic.com.au
