The Bindjareb Murray Darts Association (BMDA) will bring Aboriginal culture into the spotlight as part of their NAIDOC Week celebrations this Saturday, July 14.
The South Yunderup-based association will put on a day of festivities showcasing the culture through the sport of darts, kicking off at 9am with a traditional smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country performed by elders Harry and Gloria Nannup.
Aboriginal artists Leslie Pickett and Gloria Kearing will be giving workshops on their art while local dance groups perform for the event, and the BMDA will host men’s and women’s knockout competitions inside the South Yunderup Sport and Recreation Centre.
BMDA president Maurice Heta-Tohu said the association would also use the day as a platform to spread the message of mental health awareness.
“For us, being able to showcase the culture and the celebrations involved in NAIDOC Week is something really special,” he said.
“We’re a community organisation and that makes us a multicultural organisation, so to be able to put an event like this on at such a special time is a big thing for us.
“We’ll also use the day to push the issues that affect our community, such as mental health, so it’s more than just a celebration.
“Really, the whole week is about people coming together, so the BMDA is thrilled to be a part of it in our region.”
BMDA members will be clad in their NAIDOC inspired shirts for the event, designed by Mr Heta-Tohu himself.
The day will conclude with a dinner and dance to be held at the centre, with tickets being sold for $25 a head.
For more information on the event or to book a table, call 9537 6587 or email bmdadartscoordinator@gmail.com