Throughout NAIDOC Week 2026, Pathfinders proudly joined communities across the New England North West and Mid North Coast to celebrate this year’s theme, 50 Years of Deadly.
From community marches and school celebrations to family fun days and sporting events, our teams were honoured to stand alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, celebrating culture, strengthening relationships and supporting events that brought people together.
Across three weeks, Pathfinders staff attended and supported events in communities including Armidale, Glen Innes, Kempsey, Iluka, Forster, Wauchope, Bellbrook, Taree, Moree, Campbelltown and beyond.
One of the highlights was the Deadly 3×3 Basketball Gala Day in Armidale, where more than 100 children, young people and families came together for a day of basketball, cultural activities, music, arts and crafts. The event featured a Welcome to Country by Aunty Lesley Widders, a performance by the Lyambay Dance Group and a special visit from Australian Opals Olympic silver medallist Annie La Fleur OLY, who inspired young people by sharing her passion for basketball.
Throughout NAIDOC Week, our Family Connect and Support teams joined local schools, community organisations and family fun days, while our National Aboriginal Birth Certificate Program (PNABC) supported Aboriginal community members to access birth certificates and identity documents through community sign-up events in Iluka, Campbelltown and other locations.
Whether hosting information stalls, assisting families, participating in community marches or supporting local celebrations, our staff were proud to represent Pathfinders and continue building strong relationships with the communities we serve.
NAIDOC Week provides an important opportunity to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples while reflecting on the importance of listening, learning and walking together.
Pathfinders extends its sincere thanks to the many Local Aboriginal Land Councils, schools, community organisations, Elders, volunteers, event organisers and partner organisations who welcomed our teams throughout the week.
We look forward to continuing these partnerships and celebrating alongside our communities for many years to come.
