The Fix

Celebrating NAIDOC Week in 2024

Written by Communications | 2 Aug 2024
To celebrate NAIDOC Week, Monadelphous came together across our Australian operations and offices to celebrate and acknowledge the rich history and achievements of First Nations peoples – the oldest continuing living culture in the world.  
 
NAIDOC, which stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee, celebrates the history, culture and achievements of First Nations peoples. We are proud of our people and our incredible team of First Nations employees in many different roles and business units made this week truly special. 
 
We provided information around the significance of NAIDOC Week and Acknowledgement of Country guidance, relevant to the Traditional Owner group for each of our Australian operating locations with site packs being distributed to our sites and projects to support conversations within the workforce.  
 

Here's a recap of the highlights from NAIDOC Week 2024:

Perth office Bush Blossom Gallery artwork exhibition

In Perth, we supported local Indigenous artists from Kalgoorlie's Bush Blossom Gallery by showcasing their works in our Breakout Area (level 3, tower 2) and main reception throughout NAIDOC Week. Employees were encouraged to view and purchase these beautiful pieces of art. This initiative, in partnership with the Victoria Park Centre for the Arts, is now in its third year and continues to bring vibrant Indigenous art to life in our office.

Fourteen out of 92 paintings were purchased by Monadelphous employees, the exhibition is currently on display at the Victoria Park Centre of the Arts until July 23. Details are available here.

If you would like to revisit the exhibition or purchase any of the artwork, please check it out.

 

Keep the Fire Burning: Kim Farmer and Denice Kickett

On Tuesday, 9 July, our Perth head office hosted a special cultural learning event with Kim Farmer and Denice Kickett. These two incredible Indigenous women from famous footballing families shared personal and professional stories. Kim, a proud Noongar woman and criminal defence lawyer, and Denice, a passionate advocate for human rights, emphasised the importance of recognising that this is Australian history for all of us. They also highlighted the vital work of the Polly Farmer Foundation, encouraging everyone to learn more about their initiatives.

 

Brisbane office movie viewing

In Brisbane, our team gathered on Friday, 12 July, for a lunchtime viewing of Rebel With A Cause: Oodgeroo Noonuccal. Chris Tabrett, General Manager Growth and Strategy, chose this movie, which provided an insightful look into the life and contributions of Oodgeroo Noonuccal, an important figure in Indigenous Australian history.

 

Chinchilla NAIDOC Community Fun Day

The Chinchilla NAIDOC Community Fun Day on Sunday, 7 July, was a fantastic success. Monadelphous hosted a stall at the Chinchilla Botanic Parklands, offering fun activities and community engagement. This event brought together families and community members to celebrate First Nations peoples' vibrant culture and heritage.

 

Musgrave Park Family Fun Day

On Friday, 12 July, our Brisbane team set up a stall at the Musgrave Park Family Fun Day. This family-friendly festival featured live entertainment and activities showcasing First Nations Peoples' culture and heritage. It was a great opportunity for everyone to enjoy and learn more about the rich traditions of Indigenous Australians.

 

Darwin NAIDOC March

Also, on Friday, 12 July, our Darwin-based team participated in the NAIDOC March at Herbert Street Park. Volunteers cooked up a storm, providing a well-deserved sausage sizzle for marchers. This event underscored the strength we gain from diverse cultures, perspectives, experiences, and skills.

Social Media

During the week, we also showcased activities on our social media, including a spotlight on some of the amazing First Nation team members we have at Monos. You can check these out on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

As NAIDOC Week 2024 wrapped up, we reflect on the importance of our partnerships with businesses and local communities to create employment, training, and skills development pathways for First Nations peoples.

We are proud to celebrate and support the achievements of First Nations communities and look forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come.

Here are some more photos from events held during the week.