The City of Canning will celebrate 50 years of NAIDOC Week with a series of free community events from July 5 to 12, 2026. The milestone marks five decades of amplifying and celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their cultures.
Annual Art Exhibition Returns
The annual NAIDOC art exhibition will be held at Riverton Library for its fifth year. Visitors can engage with original artwork from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, with some pieces available for purchase. The exhibition aims to provide a rich tapestry of cultural expression and learning.
Program Highlights
Other events include a family weaving session, a community luncheon at Langford Aboriginal Association, a sneaker painting workshop, and a paint the country session with Ardent Aboriginal Arts and Assistance Community. All events are free and open to the public.
“It’s a powerful tribute to all the people who launched, and have contributed to, this movement that we are able to proudly look back on 50 years of NAIDOC Week,” said Mayor Patrick Hall.
Poster Exhibition and National Theme
Cannington Library will showcase 50 years of official NAIDOC Week posters, highlighting the event’s history and themes. This year’s national poster features art by Zaachariaha Fielding from South Australia’s Yankunytjatjara lands, symbolizing continuity and connection between generations.
“The city is proud to recognise and celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of our Whadjuk Noongar, Noongar and wider Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,” Hall added. “Our events are aimed at celebrating cultural diversity and providing opportunities to learn more about the oldest continuous living cultures on earth.”
Community Encouragement
Hall encouraged residents to participate: “The city’s NAIDOC Week events provide a meaningful way to celebrate and recognise the positive contributions First Nations people have made to our communities and our country. I’d like to encourage the Canning community to be curious and take this opportunity to learn more about First Nations cultures, histories and achievements.”
Local Artist Commission
The city commissioned local Yued artist Marlee Repper to create artwork reflecting the 50-year milestone. “The artwork explores the landscapes, stories and history throughout the City of Canning,” Repper said. “This piece represents different areas and historical landmarks within the city, including Sister Kate’s, Riverton Bridge, Kent Street weir, Woodloes, the Canning Showgrounds, Mason’s Landing, Convict Fence, Castledare, War Memorial, Administration Centre and Town Hall. The artwork reflects what each piece of land was used for by Indigenous Australians years ago. This comparison between past and present recognises the strength of First Nations people and honours the five decades since NAIDOC began.”
