Students, teachers, community members and local organisations gathered on Wiradjuri Country this week to mark NAIDOC Week 2026 and celebrate this year’s theme, “50 Years of Deadly.”
Hosted by Lithgow City Council, the community event recognised the strength, resilience, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and reflected on 50 years of NAIDOC Week celebrations.
Representatives from local schools attended, with students taking an active role in the proceedings. A highlight was an Acknowledgement of Country delivered in Wiradjuri language by Leon Williams, the Koori Captain of Lithgow Public School.
The event opened with a Welcome from Helen Riley, who acknowledged those attending, and an address from Lithgow Mayor, Cassandra Colman, who paid respect to the Wiradjuri people, Elders past and present, and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through the Mayor, Lithgow Council reaffirmed its commitment to continuing to work in respect and partnership with the local Aboriginal community.
The formal program included the raising of the Aboriginal flag. Despite wet weather earlier in the morning, the rain held off for the ceremony, allowing those gathered to take part outdoors.
Local musician Bob Sutor provided live music, adding to the strong community atmosphere. A specially decorated cake featuring the colours and design of the Aboriginal flag was also shared among attendees following the ceremony.
The event was well attended by students, school staff, community representatives and local organisations, demonstrating broad support for NAIDOC Week across the Lithgow area.
This year’s theme, “50 Years of Deadly,” celebrates five decades of NAIDOC Week and recognises the leadership, determination and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
For the students who attended, the event provided an opportunity to learn more about Wiradjuri culture, hear the language spoken publicly and take part in an important local celebration.
The gathering also reinforced the value of schools, government and community organisations working together to support greater understanding, recognition and respect for First Nations peoples.
Lithgow City Council thanked everyone who attended and contributed to the event, including the students and staff from local schools.
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