newy.com.au – Newcastle will mark NAIDOC Week 2026 with a citywide program of workshops, performances and community events, led by appearances from award-winning Bigambul author and illustrator Dub Leffler and the return of the Awabakal Newcastle NAIDOC march and festival.
Leffler, recognised internationally for his books and artwork, will host an all-ages drawing workshop at Newcastle City Library on Wednesday 8 July, giving participants the chance to learn illustration from a nationally renowned First Nations storyteller. He has illustrated more than 30 children’s books, including The Children’s Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Sorry Day.
Councillor Deahnna Richardson, a proud Wiradjuri woman and co-chairperson of City of Newcastle’s Guraki Standing Committee, said the program reflected the theme “50 years of Deadly” through creativity, connection and community participation.
“NAIDOC Week is an important opportunity for our community to celebrate and recognise the history and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Cr Richardson said.
“Through free and low-cost workshops, performances and community events, we are creating meaningful opportunities for people of all ages to learn, connect and engage with culture in a genuine and respectful way.
“Having artists like Dub Leffler involved provides a powerful way for young people and families to experience storytelling and cultural expression firsthand.”
The library program will also include natural art and silent disco sessions led by Uncle Amos Simon, where participants will create artworks using natural materials, learn traditional practices and listen to music by First Nations artists.
Families can take part in NAIDOC-themed beading workshops at Wallsend Library, creating jewellery inspired by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags while reflecting on the 50 years of Deadly theme.
Newcastle Art Gallery will deliver LEGO printmaking workshops inspired by Torres Strait Islander artist Brian Robinson’s Multiverse exhibition, as well as free studio weekend sessions focused on accessible art-making activities connected to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.
The Awabakal Newcastle NAIDOC march and festival, supported by City of Newcastle, will return on Monday 6 July, marking more than 20 years of community celebration. The day will begin with a flag-raising ceremony at Civic Park from 9am before the march makes its way to Foreshore Park for a full-day festival featuring live music, traditional dance, cultural activities, food stalls and rides.
Community Elders Uncle Raymond and Aunty Sheryl will deliver a Welcome to Country, with performances from Winanga-y Dreaming, Gabinya Miyaya, Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam, Midnight Dreaming and Naisda Performing Arts, alongside local First Nations musicians.
NAIDOC Week runs nationally from 5 to 12 July, recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. More information about Newcastle events is available on the City of Newcastle website.
