NAIDOC Week is a significant event that celebrates and recognises the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from July 7th to 14th. This year’s theme, “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud,” encourages us to embrace and support First Nations communities.

Dr Jeff Walkley, our National Disability and Diversity Manager says, “Belgravia Leisure acknowledges and recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Traditional Custodians of Country, paying respect to their cultures and Elders past and present.

“We are actively engaging with and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through comprehensive RAP consultations. As a result of these extensive consultations, several key initiatives will be implemented. We are committed to fostering genuine, impactful relationships with First Nations communities.

“We have eagerly embraced opportunities to engage with Elders, leaders, organisations and stakeholders across many communities in Australia and New Zealand. Our dedication is proudly shared in our Statement of Social Inclusion,” Jeff said.

Belgravia Leisure also provides resources for our team to actively support First Nations communities.

Our internal platform offers valuable guides such as “Delivering an Acknowledgement of Country” and “Welcoming All,” empowering our staff to engage respectfully and meaningfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

2024 National NAIDOC Week Poster

Partnerships & Collaborations 

Belgravia Leisure is proud of its ongoing initiatives and partnerships that support First Nations communities. Our First Nations Learn to Swim program, in collaboration with the Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council, provides weekly swimming lessons to 23 local First Nations youths in Liverpool, promoting water safety and life-saving skills.

During National Reconciliation Week, the Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council celebrated Ernest Kulauzovic and Nicole Bain for their outstanding efforts in fostering reconciliation and community spirit in Liverpool, NSW.

Ernest, as Belgravia Leisure’s Community Engagement Manager for South-West and Western Sydney, has been instrumental in establishing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the local council, which has significantly increased community engagement.

Nicole, the Aquatics Services Manager at Auburn Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre, has played a vital role in supporting the Learn to Swim Program, ensuring First Nations children have access to free swimming lessons.

Lacey Faulkner, a 16-year-old Kiosk Assistant at Copper Coast Sport & Leisure Centre, has made a remarkable contribution by designing a striking football guernsey worn by the local Kadina Football Club during the Indigenous round.

Her design, rich in cultural significance, symbolises unity, culture and community spirit. Lacey’s involvement extends beyond design: she has also played a crucial role in shaping our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

Lacey and her dad, Cameron, sporting her Guernsey designs above.

We’re also proud of our events at Dingley Village Adventure Golf, which are hosted with the Casey Aboriginal Gathering Place (Youth) Group and foster community engagement and connection.

Join us in celebrating Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud and continuing to foster diverse and inclusive environments within our communities.

For more information on the history of NAIDOC Week visit the National NAIDOC website.

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