The Gundagai community will come together in celebration and reflection on Saturday, July 12, as Mawang Inc. hosts its annual NAIDOC Ball at the Gundagai Services Club from 6 pm. The evening promises to be a night of unity, cultural pride, and powerful story-telling. Organised by local First Nations group Mawang Inc, the NAIDOC Ball is a key part of Gundagai’s NAIDOC Week events, held to recognise and honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. But, as longtime supporter and Aboriginal Elder Peter Smith emphasises, the event is open to everyone.
“The Ball is about recognising First Nations people, but it’s also about bringing us all together,” Smith said. “It’s not exclusive it’s for the whole community.”
The night will include a formal dinner and a guest speaker, with this year’s theme focused on “the next generation.” In keeping with that spirit, the keynote speaker for the evening will be Aidan Hartshorn, a young Walgalu and Wiradjuri artist and cultural practitioner.
Hartshorn, who grew up in Tumut, is deeply connected to his ancestral lands where the Murrumbidgee and Tumut Rivers meet. His work explores the intersection of environmental damage and cultural loss, particularly as it relates to the impacts of the Snowy Hydro-Electric Scheme, which submerged parts of Walgalu Country and disrupted cultural practices and sacred sites.
Through his unique practice often incorporating industrial materials like glass Hartshorn creates powerful pieces that speak to resilience, memory, and the enduring strength of First Nations culture. One of his well-known works, a glass bark canoe titled Murrin, reflects on both environmental degradation and the journey toward cultural reconnection.
“Choosing Aidan as the speaker was very deliberate,” said Smith. “This year is about highlighting young voices and showing the community what the next generation is doing. He’s a strong example of someone using art and knowledge to educate and inspire.”
While Smith has traditionally acted as MC for the event, he shared that someone new will take on the role this year, continuing the Ball’s spirit of encouraging fresh voices and leadership.
With a warm welcome extended to all members of the Gundagai community, the NAIDOC Ball promises to be an evening of celebration, storytelling, and unity. The theme for NAIDOC Week 2025 is “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy”. This theme celebrates the power of young leaders, the vision of strong communities, and the legacy of ancestors.
Nominations are also now open for the Marambangbilang Awards, where people can nominate a Local Deadly Aboriginal Community member for an award.
Award categories include:
• Deadly Male Elder
• Deadly Female Elder
• Deadly Achiever (Excelling in one of the following areas: Art, Language, Education, Health, Trade or Retail)
• Deadly Sportsperson: (Player, Coach, or Volunteer)
• Culture on Country: (Dedicated to caring for and protecting our land and waters).
The MAWANG Inc Committee said the awards are to celebrate and recognise those who have made significant contributions through their dedication.
“Let’s celebrate those who have made significant contributions and inspired others through their dedication and passion. Whether they are preserving our cultural heritage, leading the way in education and health, or excelling on the sports field, these individuals embody the spirit of excellence and commitment.”
“By recognising their achievements, we not only honour their hard work but also encourage the next generation to follow in their footsteps and continue the legacy of positive impact within our community.”
All nominees must be over 18 years of age. Place your nomination via this link: https://forms.office.com/r/ecNs9CxKc6.
Nominations close on Saturday.
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