NAIDOC Week is an important opportunity for all Australians to celebrate and recognise the history, culture, achievements and continuing contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Each year, communities across the country come together to learn, reflect and celebrate the world’s oldest continuing cultures, while strengthening connections and understanding across generations.
This year’s theme, “50 Years of Deadly”, marks a significant milestone as NAIDOC Week celebrates five decades of honouring and amplifying Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, cultures and achievements. It is a celebration of the Elders, leaders, artists, activists and communities who have helped shape the NAIDOC movement over the past 50 years, while inspiring future generations to continue building strong, connected and thriving communities.
The theme also reminds us of the resilience, strength and pride that have sustained Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for tens of thousands of years. It encourages all Australians to reflect on the progress that has been made, acknowledge the work still to be done, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that continues to enrich our nation.
Many of the young people and participants we support identify as First Nations peoples, making NAIDOC Week particularly meaningful within the Thrive House community. It provides an opportunity for us to celebrate culture, listen and learn, and deepen our understanding of the histories, traditions and knowledge that have been shared and preserved across generations. We recognise the important role that culture, identity and connection to Country play in fostering a sense of belonging, wellbeing and community.
While NAIDOC Week is an important annual celebration, our commitment to cultural awareness, respect and inclusion extends far beyond a single week. At Thrive House, we are dedicated to creating safe, welcoming and culturally respectful environments where everyone feels valued, connected and empowered to thrive. Through ongoing learning, meaningful relationships and inclusive practices, we continue to honour and celebrate the enduring cultures and traditions of Australia’s First Peoples every day.
As we celebrate 50 Years of Deadly, we acknowledge the past, celebrate the present and look forward to a future built on respect, understanding and connection.
NAIDOC Week events near us:
‘Old Ways, New Marks’ art exhibition
Led by respected Jinibara artist Jennifer Kent and featuring the First Nations Screenprint Collective, ‘Old Ways, New Marks’ showcases contemporary screen-print works by emerging First Nations artists. The show pulses with stories of culture, identity, resilience and resistance.
Maroochydore Library Artspace is located at Maroochydore Library. Entry is free.
‘LORE and LAND’ art exhibition
‘LORE and LAND’ brings together powerful artworks from the Sunshine Coast Art Collection, exploring the deep cultural knowledge, ancestral connections and enduring custodianship of First Nations peoples.
Caloundra Regional Gallery is open Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, and weekends, 10am to 2pm. Entry is free.
Redlands Coast NAIDOC Cultural Celebration 2026
Redland City Council is proudly hosting the Redlands Coast NAIDOC Cultural Celebration to launch NAIDOC Week 2026 – celebrating Fifty Years of Deadly.
The free event will feature stage entertainment by first nations artists, traditional smoking ceremony, cultural demonstrations, information and market stalls, weaving workshops, kids’ activities and giveaways.
Date: Sunday 5 July 2026
Time: 9am – 2pm
Location: Raby Bay Harbour Park, Shore Street West, Cleveland
Sunshine Coast NAIDOC Family Funday 2026
When: Sunday 5th July 2026 – 10-4pm
Where: Join us at KINGS BEACH (Kings Beach Amphitheatre), Caloundra
Find us at the stage and lawns between Burgess Street and Princess Lane, Kings Beach
community, culture, performances and market stalls. Free, family-friendly, drug and alcohol free for everyone by the beach. Bring a blanket, a smile and the whole family. Everyone welcome!!!
Namba NAIDOC – Wear Your Culture – 50 Years of Deadly
Tue, 07/07/2026 1pm-3pm – FREE
Celebrate NAIDOC with your community, make something to wear and show your support for 50 years of NAIDOC.
Free event. All supplies and afternoon tea provided.
There will be:
*Badge making
*Lino Printing
*Creation of Community Bunting
*Food
*Music and more
Nambour Community Centre, 2 Shearer St, Nambour QLD
Suncare NAIDOC celebration
Join us for a special event dedicated to honouring the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We have an engaging morning planned, featuring activities and some delicious food.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday 9th July
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Location: Suncare Community Centre, 2–6 George Street, Maroochydore
Undumbi Culture NAIDOC-Festival of the Harvest
Join us on Kabi Kabi Country for a powerful and vibrant NAIDOC celebration hosted by Undumbi Culture.
Festival of the Harvest is a free community event bringing people together to celebrate culture, connection and community through music, dance, food and hands-on experiences.
Bring the kids along for a deadly day of fun, learning and Experience the richness of First Nations culture with:
Traditional Dance Performances
Cultural Storytelling
Bush Tucker & Native Foods
Indigenous Markets & Handmade Artefacts
Live Music
Kids Activities
This is more than an event, it’s a celebration of culture, community and connection to Country.
Follow us for updates on Instagram & Facebook: @undumbi_culture
Free Family Friendly event – everyone is welcome!
Sunshine Coast NAIDOC Gala 2026
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating NAIDOC Week 2026 and this year’s national milestone theme, “50 Years of Deadly”.
Cost of entry
Starting at $154 + booking fee for mob
Venue
The Shed, Aussie World
UNDUMBI NAIDOC – Festival of the Harvest
Experience a day filled with performances, storytelling, food, and family-friendly activities.
Aura Farmers Market, Whiteley Ave, NIRIMBA, Sunshine Coast
11.07.2026 1pm-5pm
The Youth Development Foundation Limited
Encircle are teaming up with Deadly Choices to run an event at Kallangur Neighbourhood Centre, where we’ll be running activities both inside and outside for the community. It is a FREE event, where ALL are welcome!
BBQ, fruit and water will be provided on the day too!
Wednesday, 1 July, 10:00am – 2:00pm
Kallangur Neighbourhood Centre, 51 Marsden Road, Kallangur
Parking for the event is available at 10 Narangba Road, Kallangur – just next to our event.
NAIDOC Week Family Fun Day
Saturday 11th July, 10am-2pm
The Mill waterpark, Petrie
