NAIDOC Week, a time to celebrate and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, was celebrated at the Musgrave Park Family Fun Day in Meanjin/Brisbane on Friday. This year’s theme, Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud, and Proud, was wholeheartedly embodied by Family Fun Day attendees. NAIDOC Week: Celebrating Culture and Community at Musgrave Park Family Fun Day
Musgrave Park, a significant gathering place for Indigenous people in Meanjin, hosted thousands of attendees throughout the day. Despite the cooler months, the sun was burning bright as the day grew longer.
Kullilli and Wakka Wakka man Wes Conlon with his family. (Image: Joseph Guenzler)
Kullilli and Wakka Wakka man Wes Conlon, a familiar face in Meanjin, highlighted the importance of spending time with family and mob. “Me and the family are out here, enjoying this deadly day,” he said. “There’s mob everywhere. It’s so deadly to connect with family and community and come back to culture, who we are.”
Uncle Wes is also celebrating seven years of sobriety, having given up alcohol and cigarettes, a “deadly choice” in his words, which he believes helps keep his fire burning.
The event featured a day of food, drinks, stalls, cultural activities, live music, and educational opportunities for people of all ages. Crowds enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere while engaging with and learning about Indigenous culture and traditions. Various tents, vendors, and organisations offered career pathways and education, further enriching the experience for attendees.
Thousands gathered at the Musgrave Family Fun Day, an event which only grows each year. (Image: Joseph Guenzler)
Birri-Gubba and Wonnarua woman, Guyala Bayles, expressed her deep connection to NAIDOC Week. She emphasized the importance of preserving Indigenous knowledge and ensuring that culture remains strong. “For me personally, it’s instilling that knowledge and wisdom passed down by my Elders,” she said. “When I think about ‘Keep the fire burning’, I remember who started the fire…and how can we continue to keep that fire burning? Always acknowledging our elders who paved the way… and here we are today.”
NAIDOC Week’s Musgrave Park Family Fun Day was a testament to the enduring spirit and vibrant culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, showcasing their resilience and unity in the heart of Meanjin.
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