NAIDOC Week: Canning launches stacked program of community events to celebrate 50 years
Fifty years of the ‘deadly’ era will be honored at NAIDOC Week celebrations and events soon to spread across Canning.
NAIDOC Week 2026, taking place from 5 to 12 July, will celebrate five decades of empowering and celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their cultures.
In recognition of this important milestone, Canning has developed a program full of free events for local people to attend.
The annual NAIDOC art exhibition will be held at the Riverton Library for its fifth year. Visitors will be encouraged to engage with and learn from the rich tapestry of original artworks by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists on display in the exhibition. Some works of art will be available for purchase.
Other highlights this year include a family weaving session, a community lunch at the Langford Aboriginal Society, a sneaker painting workshop and a country painting session with the Fiery Aboriginal Arts and Charity Society.
“The fact that we can proudly look back on 50 years of NAIDOC Week is a powerful tribute to all those who started and contributed to this movement,” said Mayor Patrick Hall.
“The City is proud to recognize and celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of Whadjuk Noongar, Noongar and our wider Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
“Our events aim to celebrate cultural diversity and provide opportunities to learn more about the oldest continuously living cultures in the world.”
Cannington Library will display 50 years of official NAIDOC Week posters to honor the rich history and themes of the event.
This year’s national NAIDOC Week poster features works by artist Zaachariaha Fielding from the Yankunytjatjara lands of South Australia. Its design symbolizes continuity and connection between generations and the enduring power of culture.
“The City’s NAIDOC Week events provide a meaningful way to celebrate and recognize the positive contributions First Nations people make to our communities and our country,” said Mr. Hall.
“I want to encourage the Canning community to be curious and use this opportunity to learn more about First Nations cultures, histories and achievements.”
The city commissioned local Yued artist Marlee Repper to produce artwork reflecting the auspicious 50-year period.
“The artwork explores the sights, stories and history of the City of Canning,” Ms Repper said.
“This piece represents different areas and historic landmarks in the city including Sister Kate’s, Riverton Bridge, Kent Street embankment, Woodloes, Canning Showgrounds, Mason’s Landing, Convict Fence, Castledare, War Memorial, Administration Center and City Hall.
“The artwork reflects what each piece of land was used for by Indigenous Australians many years ago. This comparison between past and present recognizes the strength of First Nations people and honors the fifty years since NAIDOC’s inception.”
