Shepparton’s all abilities playground was abuzz on Friday, as the community came together to celebrate National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day.
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Lulla’s Children and Family Centre director Miranda Borlini said the day was started to celebrate children, giving them the chance to embrace their culture.
Ms Borlini said many children of the Stolen Generation did not celebrate their birthdays.
She said the day used to be celebrated specifically within Lulla’s Children and Family Centre before it became a large-scale event.
‘‘I just wanted it out there so we could educate others about the importance of aboriginal culture.’’
Held for a second year as an open event, Ms Borlini was delighted to see the number of children had more than doubled in attendance.
‘‘It just shows that everyone is embracing Aboriginal culture and the first nations people,’’ she said.
‘‘Lulla’s is stoked to see so many people out here because we do culture everyday, it’s embedded in our hearts and our lives, but to come out and celebrate with everybody is great.’’
Children enjoyed a number of activities on the day, including arts and crafts, as well as a number of dance performances.
They also experienced a smoking ceremony and a welcome to country ceremony.
‘‘Today has just been so significant for learning about Australian history and learning about the importance of aboriginal children and culture,’’ Ms Borlini.
READ MORE ABOUT ABORIGINAL RIGHTS IN OUR COMMUNITY:
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