In partnership with Baw Baw Shire Council and the Kurnai community, West Gippsland Healthcare Group was honoured to celebrate the commencement of NAIDOC Week at this year’s Flag Raising Ceremony.

Held at the West Gippsland Arts Centre, the event brought our community together to celebrate this year’s theme, “50 Years Deadly”.  

The morning featured a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country led by Kurnai Elder Aunty Cheryl Drayton, followed by addresses from Baw Baw Shire Mayor, Cr Kate Wilson and West Gippsland Healthcare Group CEO, Shannon Wight.

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and Australian flags were raised by WGHG Aboriginal Community Health Worker, Lionel Rose Jnr and First Nations representatives as symbol of unity, respect and recognition, honouring the strength, resilience and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The event also included the presentation of the 2026 NAIDOC Week Awards, which honour individuals and groups making meaningful contributions to our community and celebrate local talent, leadership and achievement.

At West Gippsland Healthcare Group, we are committed to building meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, supporting culturally safe care, and creating opportunities to celebrate and learn from the world’s oldest continuing culture. We thank everyone who joined this year’s ceremony and NAIDOC Week celebrations.

Media Inquiries: Public Relations Office: ceooffice@wghg.com.au