The day, which began with a march and ended in a celebration event at Victoria Park, attracted a mix of ages and culture.

“Today, it just shows that we can all be a community, and we can all come together and work together as one,” Inverell NAIDOC committee secretary Lyn Lackay said.

Lyn thanked all who helped to make the event is grow. 

“I think all week, the events have been successful, and the comments that we’re getting back have been very supportive,” she said.

“I think it will be even bigger and better next year.”

Elder Aunt Elizabeth Connors was one of the most senior participants, and agreed the awareness of NAIDOC was growing.

She sat and watched the kaleidoscope of ages and people with a smile on her face. “I think it’s just beautiful and it is a better turnout, because there’s more people involved in different activities,” she said.

“I’m so proud of our culture and our people and just so pleased to be a part of NAIDOC Week.”

The Warrajarra Dreaming dancers were a big attraction this year.

Male youth Josh Williams, Dean Davis, Dennis Cutmore, Elijah Tighe and Tyran Blair accompanied by didgeridoo players Josh Blair and Davis Landsborough caused the crowd to shout with delight.

Dean, who received the Inverell NAIDOC Week Arts Award, learned the five dances with Josh in 40 minutes the night before.

He was rapt with the experience.

“It was crazy,” he grinned.

And to do it with other boys from out of town, it’s just over the top, too.”

Josh Blair organised Warrajarra, or Clear Water Dreaming, and was thrilled with the result.

“I couldn’t be more proud of them; it gave me goosebumps,” he said.

“And the five boys who danced today, they’re all cousins and brothers. I’m very proud. I’m hoping we can do more.”

Popular Aboriginal poet Esther Gardiner read one of her poems and also felt eh bay was beautiful.

“Our different cultures can join together, and celebrate Aboriginal culture,” she said.

“Especially for the children, that they can aspire to what ever they want to be in the community.”