50 Years of Deadly: Albury Wodonga Health Coming Together to Celebrate NAIDOC Week
Friday, 10 July 2026 / Albury Wodonga Health
Albury Wodonga Health staff, community members and local Aboriginal leaders came together at Albury Hospital on Thursday to celebrate NAIDOC Week (5-12 July), recognising the strength, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The event also saw the launch of the inaugural AWH Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scholarship, offering up to $5,000 to support an AWH Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander staff member in education, training, professional development or research.
The afternoon began with a Welcome to Country from Aunty Edna, followed by a Flag Raising Ceremony, and a Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Noel. AWH staff and community members then joined for afternoon tea and a yarn, along with weaving activities, cultural displays and artwork created by local children.
The celebration was an opportunity to reflect on the rich histories, cultures and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, while strengthening our shared commitment to reconciliation and creating a culturally safe and inclusive health service.
This year’s 50 Years of Deadly theme recognises the generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people whose leadership, advocacy and resilience have created opportunities for those who follow. AWH’s Aboriginal Liaison Officers (ALOs) continue that spirit through their work supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and families with culturally safe care, strengthening connections to family, Community and Country, and advocating to create a more welcoming and respectful healthcare experience.
This year, AWH expanded its Acute Aboriginal liaison services across the Wodonga Hospital campus to work closely with patients, families and staff across the Emergency Department and Maternity Services, and we have also successfully recruited in Mental Health. This ensures more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and families can access culturally safe support throughout their healthcare journey.
Open to eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, the new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scholarship offers up to $5,000 to support a staff member to undertake education, training, professional development, or research. The inaugural scholarship reflects AWH's commitment to investing in our people, culture and community, helping staff to grow, lead and contribute to a stronger, more culturally safe health service for our region.
A special thank you to Aunty Edna, Uncle Noel and our NAIDOC Working Group for their dedication in planning and delivering this year's celebration.
Thank you also to everyone who joined us in celebrating NAIDOC Week and helping make the day one of connection, learning and community.