All schools from Forbes were represented as well as Corinella Public School and a number of community organisations. 

The celebrations kicked off at 10am with a traditional Smoking Ceremony and walk from the Forbes Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre to the oval. 

At the awards ceremony, Aileen Allen and Kelly Bowden shared the honour of Aboriginal person of the year for their outstanding contribution to improving the lives of local indigenous people and for their promotion of important issues. 

Following the presentation of awards, there was a Wiradjuri choir performance, and traditional dance demonstrations. A variety of activities were then on offer including traditional bush tucker and Johnny cake tasting, indigenous games, boomerang and spear throwing demonstrations, body painting, traditional storytelling, as well as a sausage sizzle with traditional meats such as kangaroo. 

Forbes Shire Council’s community liaison officer Anita Morrison said it was the biggest celebration to date. 

“It was just buzzing,” she said. 

“Every year it grows but this year was certainly our biggest. It was just wonderful to see so many children involved.”

Ms Morrison said NAIDOC week is an important time of year for Aboriginal people and non Aboriginal people alike. 

“It’s critical for communities to celebrate Aboriginal culture,” she said. 

“NAIDOC week is an opportunity to learn about and understand indigenous culture. It brings Aboriginal and non Aboriginal people together to share this rich history and traditions.”

“It just shows that when everyone comes together you can make wonderful community events.”