NAIDOC newbies to shine on playgroup runway

“FOR OUR ELDERS” is the theme for National NAIDOC Week but it could be a group of catwalk-strutting children who take the spotlight in the Douglas Shire’s upcoming celebrations.

Judges at the Goobidi Baby Show, now in its fourth year, will be looking for the best-dressed boy and girl while one lucky entrant will hold the prestigious title of “Cheekiest Personality”.

Goobidi Playgroup acting coordinator Keearna Costello said it was a fun activity for families with children aged 0-5.

“The kids walk the runway and it’s about showcasing our culture during NAIDOC Week,” Ms Costello said.

“There are children who dress like traditional dancers.

“Some of them are shy but some of them just get out there and love it and really strut their stuff on the catwalk.

“We haven’t once had a kid chuck a tantrum because everybody here is a winner and they get to take something home; a keepsake.”

Ms Costello said the Goobidi Baby Show highlights the importance of different generations within Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities.

“The children are our upcoming generation; they are going to keep our culture going and they love our old people,” she said.

“The Elders are our storytellers and our children are growing up to be our storytellers.

“I think children take in our culture at a young age without even realising it.”

The Goobidi Baby Show is one of numerous activities organised as part of NAIDOC Week in the shire.

There will be a church service at Mossman Gorge, a flag-raising ceremony at the Council Administration Building in Mossman, an Elders Lunch, a street parade and a “Day in the Park” event.

The Kubirriwarra Yalanji Art & Culture Exhibition will be open daily from July 11-16. Head to the Douglas Shire Council website for more details.