NAIDOC Week is held across Australia during July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This afternoon I attended NAIDOC celebrations organised by Maroondah Hospital, which is part of of Eastern Health, a network of health services across the eastern region. Maroondah Hospital has worked closely with indigenous communities, including cultural awareness training for its staff, to ensure respect for indigenous patients.

The celebrations included entertainment provided by the One Fire Dance Troupe and an afternoon tea, which was catered by the Healesville Indigenous Arts Enterprise Cooperative. Maroondah Hospital is a major employer within Maroondah, as well as a significant hospital within the eastern region and it is encouraging to see the strong emphasis that is placed on respect for our Indigenous communities.