On July 5, the Australian National Maritime Museum will host a free day of family fun to celebrate the start of NAIDOC week and honour the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth, exploring stories and knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Join in cultural activities for all ages as we celebrate ‘50 Years of Deadly’ this NAIDOC week at the Museum with lively performances, artmaking activities, guided tours and workshops.
“For 50 years, NAIDOC has championed survival, culture, and pride. At the intersection of land and sea, the Australian National Maritime Museum is proud to amplify the oldest living continuous cultures on earth. ’50 Years of Deadly’ is a declaration that First Nations maritime stories are not history frozen in time—they are living, breathing truths shaping our shared future.” Matt Poll, Head of Indigenous Programs commented.
The day begins with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Koori Konnections, grounding us in respect and tradition. From there, the celebrations continue with a range of engaging and educational activities, including:
- Live art demonstration from award-winning children’s book illustrator Dub Leffler
- Weaving workshops with Dunghutti Biripi artist and educator Wanita Lowe
- Face painting with NAIDOC inspired designs curated by Dakota Dixon
- Mixed media workshops with Dunghutti/Gomeroi artist Nioka Lowe-Brennan
- Live music performances throughout the day from Marra-Wanggan Dance Group and Baakanji Kunya musician Ross Knight
- And so much more!
See the highlights of this exciting program below and view the full program.
Song and Dance Performance by Marra-Wanggan Dance Group– The Marra-Wanggan’s all-women ensemble share a vibrant performance of dance, storytelling and song celebrating Yuin culture.
Times: 11:30am, 1:30pm (30-minute sets)
Ages: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No bookings required
Price: Free
Location: Performance Platform
Dance Experience with Marra-Wanngan Dance Group– Join this open age interactive dance experience led by ensemble dancers from Marra-Wanggan Dance Group. No previous dance experience is required!
Times: 12:00pm, 2:00pm (15-minute workshops)
Ages: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No bookings required
Price: Free
Location: Performance Platform
Live Music with Ross Knight– Enjoy Baakanji Kunya musician Ross Knight as he shares his original songs, stories, and captivating lyrics.
Times: 12:15pm, 2:15pm, 3pm (30-minute sets)
Ages: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No bookings required
Price: Free
Location: Performance Platform
Mixed Media Workshops with Nioka Lowe-Brennan– Join Dunghutti/Gomeroi artist Nioka Lowe-Brennan for a drop-in mixed media workshop responding to this year’s NAIDOC theme. Use paper collage, paints and mixed media to create a unique artwork that you can keep or leave on display.
Times: 10:30am, 1:30pm (90 minute drop-in sessions)
Ages: Suitable for ages 4+
Booking: No bookings required
Price: Free
Location: Ben Lexcen Terrace
Koori Kulcha Pop-Up Kiosk– Join Aunty Marie and the Koori Kulcha street warriors as they serve up a delicious range of native ingredients through complementary sweet and savoury tastings and takeaway available for purchase. Enjoy traditional spices and herbs used in Aboriginal communities featured through their ranges of condiments, catering, and delicious herbal teas.
Times: 10:30am – 2:30pm
Ages: Suitable for all ages
Booking: No bookings required
Price: Free
Location: Museum Boardwalk