Celebrating NAIDOC Week with Murrin Bridge LALC
The girls' football team proudly wears Girri Birrang jerseys as they run onto the field, celebrating our role as major sponsors and our commitment to supporting Indigenous communities and youth empowerment.
This week, in recognition of NAIDOC Week, Girri Birrang’s Jarrod Smith sat down with Diona's David Crowhurst and respected Elder and CEO of Murrin Bridge Local Aboriginal Lands Council (LALC), Narelle Hall, to discuss community collaboration, cultural preservation, and the positive impacts of our joint initiatives.
The discussion highlighted several key takeaways, including the importance of integrating cultural components into training programs and the transformative impact these initiatives have on local communities.
Narelle shared insights into the successful partnership between Murrin Bridge LALC, Girri Birrang, and Diona, particularly focusing on a joint initiative at Lake Cargelligo TAFE. This program has enabled local Indigenous youths to gain jobs with Girri Birrang, providing essential skills and incorporating a cultural component. Narelle remarked:
"It has changed our approach at Murrin Bridge LALC, guiding us in better protecting and preserving cultural sites within our region."
At Girri Birrang, we are immensely proud of the success of this program and its positive impact on the community. Jarrod Smith, reflecting on Girri Birrang's motto ‘Bridging Horizons, Building Futures,’ explained:
"We believe in supporting community and Indigenous youth. We were the major sponsors of Orange United Warriors at last weekend’s Indigenous Round at Wade Park – an involvement opportunity introduced to us by Narelle. It’s not just about being a sponsor but connecting with locals and discussing how we can help. I am passionate about trades and upskilling people. For me, bridging horizons and building futures means making connections and helping the community succeed. Being an Indigenous Australian, this is how I approach business."
Jarrod Smith hands over a jersey to a young football player, symbolising our commitment to supporting Indigenous youth and fostering community connections through sports.
Jarrod also shared a story about visiting a property owned by Murrin Bridge LALC, where he aims to gather volunteers to help freshen it up for local events or school camps. This initiative aligns perfectly with our motto of ‘Bridging Horizons, Building Futures,’ focusing on empowering others, helping to upskill them, and providing ongoing support.
Looking ahead, Jarrod envisions the introduction of trade-based apprenticeships and traineeships as part of our ongoing relationship with Diona, further enhancing our commitment to community development and support for Indigenous youth.
This year’s NAIDOC Week theme, ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud,’ resonates deeply with our values. Narelle reflected on her experiences growing up in the 80s when expressing her culture was not encouraged. This theme celebrates the strength, connection, and pride of Indigenous Australians, and we are proud to join in this celebration.
Join us in celebrating #NAIDOCWeek and let’s keep the fire burning!
