Yesterday, Gilibaa proudly hosted the NAIDOC Assembly for the St Philip’s Christian College Port Stephens campus, providing a meaningful and vibrant celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
The assembly was a powerful expression of culture through language, song and dance, as Gilibaa students shared their knowledge and identity with the wider school community. The event reflected this year’s NAIDOC theme, “50 Years of Deadly,” which celebrates five decades of honouring the strength, resilience, and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
We were privileged to have Worimi Elders in attendance, acknowledging the deep cultural significance of Country and community. Their presence reinforced the importance of connection to land, heritage, and shared learning.
A highlight of the assembly was hearing from Danielle Manton, Director of Indigenous Health Education at the University of Technology Sydney and a Gilibaa parent. Danielle shared her personal story and spoke about the importance of culture, community, and education. She reminded students that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures are the oldest continuing cultures in the world, with over 60,000 years of knowledge and wisdom to learn from.
Speaking about this year’s theme, Danielle explained that being “deadly” means being strong, proud, and deeply connected to culture, community, and Country. She encouraged all students to recognise that strength is found in everyday actions — showing kindness, respect, and care for one another.
Danielle also highlighted the unique environment at Gilibaa, where students, staff, and community work together to create a culture of belonging. She spoke about the importance of language, storytelling, and shared experiences, and the role they play in keeping culture strong for future generations.
The assembly was not only a celebration of the past 50 years of NAIDOC Week, but also an invitation to look forward. Students were encouraged to see themselves as future leaders — young people who will carry culture, language, and community into the next 50 years and beyond.
Events like this highlight the heart of Gilibaa — a place where culture is lived, celebrated, and shared. It also reflects the College’s commitment to walking alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities with respect, understanding, and gratitude.
As Danielle concluded, being “deadly” means being proud of who you are, caring for others, and walking together in respect — values that continue to shape the Gilibaa community every day.
