August 2003

Juvenile justice centres mark NAIDOC Week

A range of activities and special events in juvenile justice centres brought together Aboriginal young people, community members and Elders during National Aboriginal Islander Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week.

At Melbourne Juvenile Justice Centre (JJC), entertainment included Aboriginal performers Kutcha Edwards, the Birra on Likitujka dance group, the Elders Choir from Aboriginal Community Elders Service (ACES) and a performance by a group of Aboriginal staff and young people backed by Josie Jason and the JJ Band.

The ACES Day Care Elders were presented with a handcrafted coffee table made by young people at the centre.

Other guests included Aboriginal and other AFL footballers and the visiting Aboriginal Basketball Development team who challenged young people to a game.

At Malmsbury JJC Elder Don Murray gave a cultural presentation and traditional dancers, accompanied by a didgeridoo player, entertained guests, young people and staff.

There was also a boomerang workshop and a traditional lunch.

The NAIDOC activities provided support and encouragement to young Aboriginal people involved with the juvenile justice program.

The juvenile justice NAIDOC events were organised by Koorie Juvenile Justice workers and other juvenile justice staff.

Koorie Juvenile Justice workers are funded to work with young Aboriginal people involved with the juvenile justice program and to maintain close ties with local Aboriginal communities.

Staff at Northern Juvenile Justice Unit and Protective Services also marked NAIDOC week by sharing an indigenous meal.