Strength, Vision & Legacy: A Statewide NAIDOC Celebration

July 2025

On Tuesday, 8 July 2025, CatholicCare Tasmania (CCT), in collaboration with Loreto Community Housing (LCH), St Joseph Affordable Homes (SJAH), and the Archdiocese of Hobart (AOH) proudly hosted a vibrant and heartfelt celebration in honour of NAIDOC Week.

The 2025 NAIDOC Week theme, 'The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,' honours the accomplishments of the past while embracing a promising future - driven by the resilience of emerging leaders, the foresight of our communities, and the enduring influence of our ancestors.

To celebrate, an event was held at the Hobart Office and was live-streamed to CCT, LCH and SJAH offices statewide. The event brought together staff and cultural leaders to recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. It was also an opportunity to give thanks and honour the richness they bring to our Catholic faith and shared story.

The celebration began with powerful cultural presentations by Aunty Amanda Pearn, Reuben Oates and Alarna Page. Together, they shared reflections on the significance of NAIDOC Week, the strength and vision of Aboriginal cultures, and the role of art and storytelling in cultural expression. Their contributions set a thoughtful and inspiring tone for the day’s activities.

Following the presentations, attendees were invited to enjoy a morning tea in their locations across Tasmania, fostering connection and conversation across the broader community.

In Hobart, attendees had the opportunity to take part in two hands-on workshops: Aunty Amanda Pearn led a Kelp Basket making session, highlighting the cultural significance of Sea Country, while Reuben Oates facilitated an Art Workshop focused on storytelling through painting.

The event also showcased a cultural display and a vibrant Children’s Art Display, featuring works created by CCT Early Learning and Care children under the guidance of CCT Principal Aboriginal Consultant, Alarna Page.

The event was well-attended, reflecting a shared commitment to ensuring our words, actions and choices reflect God’s love and lead to a future of dignity, reconciliation and cultural learning. The atmosphere was one of respect, curiosity, and celebration, making it a memorable highlight of NAIDOC Week 2025.

From left to right, Bec Woolley (Community Programs Manager, Loreto Community Housing) Aunty Amanda Pearn, Reuben Oates, Alarna Page (Principal Aboriginal Consultant, CatholicCare Tasmania) and Julia Mangan (Chief Executive Officer, CatholicCare Tasmania)

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On Tuesday, 8 July 2025, CatholicCare Tasmania (CCT), in collaboration with Loreto Community Housing (LCH), St Joseph Affordable Homes (SJAH), and the Archdiocese of Hobart (AOH) proudly hosted a vibrant and heartfelt celebration in honour of NAIDOC Week.

The 2025 NAIDOC Week theme, 'The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,' honours the accomplishments of the past while embracing a promising future - driven by the resilience of emerging leaders, the foresight of our communities, and the enduring influence of our ancestors.

To celebrate, an event was held at the Hobart Office and was live-streamed to CCT, LCH and SJAH offices statewide. The event brought together staff and cultural leaders to recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. It was also an opportunity to give thanks and honour the richness they bring to our Catholic faith and shared story.

The celebration began with powerful cultural presentations by Aunty Amanda Pearn, Reuben Oates and Alarna Page. Together, they shared reflections on the significance of NAIDOC Week, the strength and vision of Aboriginal cultures, and the role of art and storytelling in cultural expression. Their contributions set a thoughtful and inspiring tone for the day’s activities.

Following the presentations, attendees were invited to enjoy a morning tea in their locations across Tasmania, fostering connection and conversation across the broader community.

In Hobart, attendees had the opportunity to take part in two hands-on workshops: Aunty Amanda Pearn led a Kelp Basket making session, highlighting the cultural significance of Sea Country, while Reuben Oates facilitated an Art Workshop focused on storytelling through painting.

The event also showcased a cultural display and a vibrant Children’s Art Display, featuring works created by CCT Early Learning and Care children under the guidance of CCT Principal Aboriginal Consultant, Alarna Page.

The event was well-attended, reflecting a shared commitment to ensuring our words, actions and choices reflect God’s love and lead to a future of dignity, reconciliation and cultural learning. The atmosphere was one of respect, curiosity, and celebration, making it a memorable highlight of NAIDOC Week 2025.

From left to right, Bec Woolley (Community Programs Manager, Loreto Community Housing) Aunty Amanda Pearn, Reuben Oates, Alarna Page (Principal Aboriginal Consultant, CatholicCare Tasmania) and Julia Mangan (Chief Executive Officer, CatholicCare Tasmania)

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