Each July, celebrations are held across Australia to mark NAIDOC Week. This is a time to recognise and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The theme for this year’s NAIDOC Week is ‘Our Languages Matter’. Indigenous languages play a unique and essential role in cultural identity, linking people to their land and communicating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, spirituality and rites across generations.
As part of our commitment to reconciliation, Mercy Health invites you, your friends and family to join in NAIDOC Week celebrations and activities.
NAIDOC Week celebrations: Werribee Mercy Hospital
Wednesday 5 July: 1-2pm
Learning Precinct – Seminar Room, foyer and courtyard
Werribee Mercy Hospital, 300 Princes Highway, Werribee
Our Werribee Mercy Hospital event will feature a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony by Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Di Kerr, a formal address by Chief Executive – Health Services, Adj Prof Linda Mellors, launch of the hospital’s new Aboriginal space, entertainment from the Yarra Yarra dancers and afternoon tea.
Parking
Free parking is available at the Victoria University athletics track (at the southern end of Hoppers Lane, entry via gate 5 on the eastern side). Shuttle buses to the hospital front entrance run every 15 minutes.
NAIDOC Week celebrations: Mercy Hospital for Women
Thursday 6 July: 10-11am and throughout the day
Level 4 foyer and balcony
Mercy Hospital for Women, 163 Studley Road, Heidelberg
Our Mercy Hospital for Women event will feature a formal address by Chief Executive – Health Services, Adjunct Professor Linda Mellors, a basket weaving activity with Donna Blackall, an interactive painting session with Austin Health Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer and artist Kay Jones, and morning tea. A special Grand Round on the topic of Aboriginal health will be held in the Level 4 Seminar Room at 12.45pm. Indigenous fashion designer and Mercy Health RAP artist Lyn-Al Young will also be selling handmade silk scarves in the Level 1 foyer throughout the day.
Transport
Paid parking is available in the carpark beneath the hospital (enter via Burgundy Street). If you are taking public transport from the CBD, take the Hurstbridge line and get off at Heidelberg Railway Station.
We also encourage you to attend Austin Health’s NAIDOC Week celebrations:
NAIDOC Week celebrations: Austin Hospital
Tuesday 4 July, 11am-midday
Level 1, Foyer (between Austin Hospital and Mercy Hospital for Women)
Welcome to Country by Wurundjeri Elder
Traditional dancers.
Grand Round special guest presentation, Wednesday 5 July, 12.25-1.25pm
John Lindell Lecture Theatre, Level 4, Harold Stokes Building
Special guest speaker Professor Marcia Langton AM.