Local Indigenous heritage was celebrated with song and dance in the Snowy Mountains in October.
Snowy River Shire Council are proud to be involved in this event, which recognises the history, culture and contribution of Aboriginal people in the region.
The celebrations brought together Indigenous elders and their families, young people from Jindabyne Central School and Snowy Mountains Grammar School, Navy cadets from TS ORION, Espy youth councillors, and the local community.
The event, run by the Snowy Mountains Neighbourhood Centre with support from Council and National Parks, saw a moving Welcome to County followed by a flag raising ceremony where Navy Cadets, School Captains and Elders stood side by side.
Event organiser Lisa Gibb said the internationally renowned Danooch Dancers had entertained the largest turnout from the community she had seen.
“Thanks to our supporters Council, National Parks and Wildlife Service, South East Arts and especially to our volunteers that helped make this event a huge success and something that the local community will remember for months to come.”
While the Lions Club provided a free lunch to the local crowd, National Parks Discovery Rangers entertained with rope–making, ochre body painting and story telling. The Danooch Dancers were a highlight of the day, their powerful dance and didgeridoo playing inspiring local children to join them on stage.
The community used the celebration to share stories, build friendships, and most importantly build understanding of the rich history of the area.
