Rain could not stop the Brewarrina Community from marching yesterday (Tuesday 5 July) to kick off NAIDOC WEEK.

The theme says it all this year. GET UP, STAND UP, SHOW UP and that is exactly what Brewarrina did. 

The march commenced at 10:30am in front of the Brewarrina LALC and made its way down the main street followed by Highway Patrol, Fire and Ambulance services.

Police had both ends of the street blocked off along with the Brewarrina Shire Council for the community to safely march. 

The march finished up at the yarning circle at Weir Park for the flag raising which was done by elder Mary Waites and acting general manager David Kirby.  

Welcome to country was done in Ngemba language by Chantae Eyre followed by Mary Waites welcoming everyone in English and saying a prayer.  

It was the first time that the march finished up at the Weir Park for the flag raising with the beautiful Barwon River as the back drop for this important day for the Indigenous community. 

Everyone was invited back to the community hall for morning tea and a BBQ provided by Storm Co. and Mission Australia. There were plenty of activities such as face paint, craft and volleyball comps. 

Local resident Maymay Reynolds said it best: "Had the maddest day today, I played Volleyball with all the youngsters, and it was good to see the community come together for NAIDOC."  

The day was well supported by the Police, Fire and Ambulance Services who joined in the parade with lights flashing.  

This NAIDOC Week was put together by Brewarrina Shire Council and Brewarrina LALC and all Community Services.