Wuchopperen Health Service proudly hosted its annual Community Day on Wednesday, July 9, as part of NAIDOC Week celebrations.
The event brought together around 1,500 community members and clients to celebrate Indigenous culture, honour Elders, and recognise the vital contributions of partner organisations supporting the health and wellbeing of Cairns’ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
This year’s Community Day embraced the NAIDOC theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” highlighting the impact and resilience of past generations, the influence of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people today, and the promise of future leadership.
The day began with a traditional Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Henry Fourmile, setting a respectful tone for the event.
Throughout the day tribute was paid to Elders for their significant roles in the promotion and support of NAIDOC and the community over the past five decades, while also encouraging the younger generation to carry forward this legacy with courage and cultural pride.
Joy Savage, Wuchopperen Health Service CEO commented, “In 1981 we officially opened providing health services to the Community on the Friday of NAIDOC Week, which makes NAIDOC Week an extra special time for Wuchopperen. It’s officially our birthday, and the opportunity to spend it with our community is fitting.
“Our Community Day is a special time to celebrate the strength and spirit of our people. It’s inspiring to see our young generation stepping up with vision and leadership, building on the foundation laid by community leaders and Elders. Together, we continue to create a healthy, vibrant future for our community.”
Partner organisations from across the greater Cairns region attended, showcasing the services and programs provided to the ten thousand Aboriginal and Torres Strait people who live, work and call Cairns home.
The event featured entertainment, cultural activities, and opportunities for community connection, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in fostering wellbeing.
Traditional dance performances were provided on the day by local Aboriginal dancers as well as the Sagerau Poenypan Torres Strait Island Dance Troupe.
The large crowd was keep entertained throughout the afternoon with live performances by Pere Paul (Big Pups) and Bala Kaijo, in addition to a Didgeridoo competition.
Local Indigenous Community Radio Station, Bumma Bippa 98.7 ensured the afternoon was well promoted, with Matty Motlop and his promotional team broadcasting live throughout the event.
