This year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations embraced the powerful theme: “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy” — a tribute to the emerging voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth and the enduring strength of culture passed from one generation to the next.
Every NAIDOC week at Kolbe College is special. Students and staff engaged in meaningful activities that celebrate this year’s theme and honoured the legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples:
We opened our NAIDOC Week with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, led by Mr Barry Winmar with the entire school gathered around the Avenue. Mr Winmar invited us to clap together as one heartbeat, symbolising unity.
“My favourite part was the smoking ceremony when everyone clapped and it was like a heart beat.” Uzziah Year 7
At our NAIDOC Mass we welcomed special guest speakers former student Chloe Collard, graduate of 2014 and Year 4 teacher at Salvado Catholic College. Donella Brown Director of Aboriginal Catholic Ministry who shared personal stories and insights about cultural strength, and the importance of listening to and empowering our youth.
“This week was so amazing because it gave me the opportunity to connect with my culture and I got to hear amazing stories from Donella Brown and Chloe Collard. Those stories were very inspiring to see two incredible women who have achieved great things, no matter their challenges.” Mia Year 11
Friendship sausage sizzle Lunch brought students together over food, creating space for connection.
Students and staff collaborated in the Deadly Door Challenge, decorating classroom doors to reflect Indigenous culture, language, and heritage. Each door became a creative expression of this year’s theme.
In the energetic Noongar Language Amazing Race, Year 7 students raced through cultural and language-based challenges, learning key Noongar words and phrases while deepening their connection to Country and culture.The Week also included a session with the Stephen Michael Foundation, blending sport, leadership, and cultural pride. Students engaged in workshops focused on identity, resilience, and the role of young leaders in shaping the future.
In Week 3 our students will play football and netball against Emmanuel Catholic College during their NAIDOC week.
NAIDOC Week 2025 was a time of reflection, celebration, and inspiration. As we honour the strength of Elders and the vision of our young people, we are reminded that the legacy continues—through culture, connection, and a united commitment to a better future.
