Elders and members of the Yorta Yorta nations joined Benalla Rural City Councillors and others from the local community to celebrate the areas first people.
A spokesperson for the Benalla Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee said it was a wonderful day.
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“We had the flag raising with Yorta Yorta Elder Uncle Lance James, Uncle Larry James and Auntie Desiree Walker,” the spokesperson said.
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“There were lots of people at the flag raising. So many made the effort to come along, and not just from Benalla, we had lots from the surrounding area, too.
“It was great they all made the effort to attend.”
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Following the flag raising Uncle Lance James performed a traditional smoking ceremony and all who entered the town hall walked through the smoke.
“Inside the town hall we had lots of displays and stalls, with lots of indigenous art,” the spokesperson said.
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“The kids from St Joseph's Primary had some art up, too, which was amazing.
“What was really pleasing is all the people who hung around to have a yarn and learn about our history.
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“The whole theme of NAIDOC 2021 is `Heal Country’ and it is so important for people to learn about the history of the place they live.
“To have so many people so keen to have a chat and learn more was inspiring.
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“I think NAIDOC Week next year in Benalla will be even bigger and even better.
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“We will be moving forward each year as more and more people embrace the week and what it represents.”
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