The Newman community embraced the spirit of NAIDOC Week at this year’s Y WA NAIDOC Youth Ball held in June.
Now in its fourth year, the event was founded by Nicole Bonney, a former Y WA staff member, to offer a vibrant and safe space for young people to honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This year's ball was a hit, with 40 local young people attending and embodying the 2024 NAIDOC theme, ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’. The theme was also highlighted through gowns donated by Kirrikin and decorations, including 30 fire-themed table centerpieces created by students from the Stars Foundation.
Lee-Anne Ugle, Coordinator of our Newman-based Education, Engagement and Attainment Initiative, emphasised the event’s focus on inspirational youth speakers.
“This year we heard from Nita Binhitam who shared her journey from last year’s inaugural Y WA Kokoda Leadership and Development Program and Neveah Williamson, who is currently one of the 2023/2024 Department of Education WA Student Council Representatives for Newman,” Ms Ugle said.
Young people also danced to tunes from local Newman DJ Viv, enjoyed a buffet catered by Miss Jane, and captured memories in the photo and video booth.
Thank you to our dedicated Newman team and sponsors for making this memorable event possible and providing opportunities for youth in our remote communities.
Check out some footage from the night here!