NAIDOC WEEK 2026: “50 YEARS OF DEADLY” NAIDOC Week 2026 celebrates the theme “50 Years of Deadly.” This milestone acknowledges five decades of strength, resilience and leadership from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, while honouring those who have shaped the journey through culture, activism and community leadership. At The Lakes, this theme invites us to reflect on how far we have come as a College in Indigenous Education and understanding over the last 19 years that our school has been in operation. Additionally, it allows us to recognise the Deadly role our young people play in shaping the next chapter. NAIDOC is a celebration, but also a call to continue listening, learning and walking together.
DRIVING CHANGE: YOORROOK JUSTICE COMMISSION COMMITMENTS We are committed to embedding the key education recommendations from the recently released Yoorrook Justice Commission into our practice. These include: Ensuring culturally safe learning environments where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students feel respected and empowered Strengthening the representation of First Nations histories, cultures and perspectives across our curriculum Supporting student wellbeing through practices that recognise identity, voice and belonging Building staff capability to confidently and respectfully teach Indigenous perspectives Advocating for stronger First Nations voice and leadership in education systems These actions reflect Yoorrook’s call for education that is truthful, inclusive and grounded in First Peoples’ knowledge and perspectives, ultimately creating better outcomes for all learners.
A FUN WAY TO EXPLORE IDENTITY Learning about culture can also be engaging and fun! The “Who’s Who” Indigenous personality quiz offers a great way for students to explore different identity archetypes in a playful, accessible way. It’s a fantastic conversation starter—helping students appreciate the richness and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures while reflecting on their own identities.
Find out if you are a Dolphin, a Wombat, a Kangaroo or an Eagle here: https://ausidentities.com.au/personality-quizzes/
DID YOU KNOW? At The Lakes, we are proud to have 33 students and 1 staff member who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. This means there is at least one Indigenous student in every year level from Prep to Year 12.
This is something we celebrate—because every one of these students contributes to the strength, culture and future of our school community.
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