The next generation - Nyngan NAIDOC opening ceremony

‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy’ is the theme for the 2025 NAIDOC week which was officially opened in Nyngan on Monday, September 8 with a community ceremony at the Winangali Walk meeting spot.

Students from Nyngan Preschool perform at the NAIDOC Week event. Photos by Warren and Nyngan Weekly: Abigail McLaughlin.

Students from all Nyngan Public School, Nyngan High School, and Nyngan Preschool all took part in the opening.

The Wakakirri Mayi dance group, which includes children and teenagers, performed a series of dances choreographed by cultural leader Jamie Mclennan.

Nyngan High School students Eric Morgan and Lillian Whaley were the masters of ceremony and invited the crowd to stand and participate in the Welcome to Country in language before inviting a group of students to sing the national anthem – also in language.

Children from Nyngan Preschool performed several dances, and students from each school represented did a short address.

Bogan Shire Mayor, deputy mayor Karl Bright and NSW Aboriginal Land Council central region councillor Grace Toomey also spoke.

The Aboriginal, Torres Strait and national flags were raised by Marea Johnson and Dalton McDougall; Aunty Dulcie Graham; and Lillian Whaley and Eric Morgan.