Communities across the district will come together to celebrate NAIDOC Week, marking 50 years of culture and community under the 2026 theme 50 Years of Deadly.
Running from July 5 to 12, NAIDOC Week will be recognised through a series of events in Bridgetown and Manjimup, with residents invited to reflect on history, celebrate Aboriginal culture and share in food.
In Bridgetown, the Gulyara Aboriginial Corporation in collaboration with the Hub, will host a community screening of Rabbit-Proof Fence on Wednesday from 6pm.
The event will be held at the Bridgetown Hub and will include a free meal of traditional kangaroo stew.
In Manjimup, BYA Manjimup will host a NAIDOC lunch and open day for the community on Friday.
The event will begin at 12.30pm with a free barbecue, kangaroo stew and johnny cakes, followed by an invite to explore the youth space.
An acknowledgement of country will be held at 2pm.
Activities will include board games, colouring-in pages, the BYA shop opening and a chance to meet the youth space.
BYA youth engagement coordinator Donna Masters said NAIDOC Week was an opportunity for the community to come together to recognise, respect and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“At BYA we see firsthand how powerful it is when young people feel connected — to culture, to community and to each other,” she said.
“We encourage the wider community to attend our NAIDOC event not just as spectators, but as active participants in building understanding and respect.
“It is a chance to listen, learn and celebrate alongside our young people, who are proud to share their culture, stories, and voices.
“By showing up, the community helps create a stronger, more inclusive future where every young person feels seen, valued and respected.”
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