Community members gathered in Australind last week for an inaugural community walk to mark NAIDOC Week.

On Wednesday morning, Empowerment2Beme and the 6233 Australind and Residents Ratepayers Association hosted a NAIDOC Week walk open to all, celebrating connection, culture, community and wellbeing.

Also in attendance were Shire of Harvey staff and Cr Wendy Dickinson.

Justice of Peace and 6233 AARRA member Amanda Lovitt said the walk responded to a need for community led events in the Australind area, while the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week was something the two organisations wanted to celebrate in a “deadly way”.

Ms Lovitt said the weather was beautiful and a “perfect Makuru morning”, with group strolling along the Derbal Elaap (Leschenault Esturary),starting at Ridley Place and finishing at the Christina Street Reserve.

“They followed the Shire of Harvey’s heritage trail, learning and talking about shared histories and landmarks along the way,” she said.

“A few riders wished everyone a great morning and they were wished a happy NAIDOC (Week).

“Kerry from Empowerment2Bme acknowledged the Bindjareb elders and country, and she is a Minang woman herself.”

She said the NAIDOC Week event would be held annually and guided by feedback, while discussions were being held with elders to explore other opportunities throughout the year.