The 2021 NAIDOC theme is Heal Country.
It offers an opportunity for us to celebrate the rich history, diverse cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the oldest continuing culture on the planet.
While COVID-19 has restricted the activities possible for NAIDOC Week 2021, Council is taking action towards the invitation to Heal Country and we want your help.
Connecting to Country Program
The Connecting to Country Program has been established in consultation with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation and the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.
The Program will bring together local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and youth on the Kulin Lands of the Dandenong Creek and Police Paddocks to connect.
The program will offer volunteer participants work experience, cultural access, cultural practice, qualifications and tertiary training opportunities.
Council’s Parks Team submitted the application to the Parks Victoria Volunteering Innovation Fund on behalf of the project partners which include Knox City Council, Casey Council, the Dandenong and District Aborigines Co-operative Ltd and Parks Victoria.
Vote Now
At this stage, the Connecting to Country Program is subject to funding through the Parks Victoria Volunteering Innovation Fund. You can vote now to show your support.
If the program receives enough public votes through the state government ‘Engage Victoria’ website, the City of Greater Dandenong will receive $50,000 as an auspice for the program.
You can also vote for 2 other programs.