Northern Sydney celebrates 50 years of NAIDOC Everyone had a deadly time at the celebrations held across the district for NAIDOC Week 2026. Honouring this year’s milestone “50 years of deadly”, staff, patients and community members came together to celebrate the culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. New aboriginal artwork was unveiled at Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital which will serve as a lasting symbol of cultural respect, inclusion and belonging for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, families, carers, staff and visitors. At Ryde Hospital, a traditional smoking ceremony and vibrant song and dance performance set the tone for the celebrations. Staff at Mona Vale Hospital participated in an Aboriginal Art on Canvas workshop led by Uncle Gary Simon (Jagamurra), exploring the stories, symbolism and traditions behind Aboriginal art. Northern Beaches Hospital hosted a special Yidaki performance celebrating culture, connection and the continuing contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Macquarie Hospital marked the week with a smoking ceremony and the opening of the Past & Present Stairway, recognising Aboriginal history, culture and ongoing connection to Country. Meanwhile, Royal North Shore Hospital hosted the inaugural Deadly Awards, celebrating excellence, leadership and contribution across the district. Co-hosted by actor Luke Carroll, the event featured a welcome to country, smoking ceremony, cultural dance performances and a lunch, NSLHD Executive Director, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Service and Workforce, Pauline Deweerd, said she was pleased to see so many people attend the events, from clinicians to community. “It was great to see the intensive care team (ICU) teams come to the event because the music and didgeridoo was there to help heal them, help heal all the sick people, and acknowledge those who have passed,” Pauline said.
The Kiris An Thara Torres Strait Islander dance troupe performing at Royal North Shore Hospital
NSLHDNEWS | ISSUE 19| 4 OCTOBER 2024 NSLHD NEWS | ISSUE 13 | 17 JULY 2026
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