The Gordon celebrates NAIDOC Week

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Earlier this month The Gordon’s annual NAIDOC Week celebration brought students and staff together for a meaningful day of connection, culture and community.

Held at our City campus, the event created an opportunity for The Gordon community to come together through listening, learning and collaboration. The day commenced with a Welcome to Country delivered by proud Wadawurrung woman and Gordon Board Member, Corrina Eccles, followed by a Flag Raising Ceremony, setting the tone for a celebration grounded in respect, reflection and cultural pride.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of The Gordon's NAIDOC Awards, recognising individuals and teams who have made significant contributions to improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Among the recipients was Cultural Capabilities Manager Grant Burns, who received this year's NAIDOC Achievement Award.

It was a real honour to receive this year’s NAIDOC Achievement Award and to share this recognition with such an incredible team. It’s a meaningful reminder of the importance of celebrating achievements grounded in Community, Culture and Country.

-- Grant Burns, Cultural Capabilities Manager 

Coordinator Aboriginal Education Support and Experience, Tiff West, said the event plays an important role in strengthening cultural understanding and belonging across The Gordon.

"Hosting our NAIDOC Week event creates a space where First Nations cultures, histories and achievements are celebrated. For our students, it provides an opportunity to strengthen cultural pride and build meaningful connections," said Tiff.

Students and staff also took part in a creative activity led by The Gordon's Mumgu-Dhal students.

Our students in our Mumgu-Dhal course hosted the main activity. They invited staff and other students to contribute a meaningful word connected to NAIDOC on a gum leaf, which was then placed on a beautifully painted tree, resulting in a vibrant display of collective reflection and learning.

-- Tiff West, Coordinator Aboriginal Education Support and Experience

As the colourful gum leaf tree grew throughout the day, it became a reminder of the strength of Community, Culture and Country. Events like NAIDOC Week help build cultural understanding, strengthen connections and create an environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples feel valued, respected and empowered.