The Department of Tourism and Culture’s Alice Springs Desert Park is celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people throughout the Month of July as part of NAIDOC Week.

This year’s NAIDOC theme is ‘Because of her, we can.’

Director of the Alice Springs Desert Park, Paul AhChee Ngala, said culture is in our hearts, the landscape and in our blood.

“Throughout July, the oldest living culture will be celebrated through stories, displays and celebrations at the Alice Springs Desert Park,” said Mr AhChee.

“Every Wednesday between 11am and 2pm join our Aboriginal Guide in the Culture Hub.  Try your hand at traditional techniques such as boomerang throwing, weaving, sand drawing or fire making. Warm up around the campfire and experience a true roo tail cook up.  Activities change weekly.”

Survival in the Desert is on daily except Wednesday’s between 11am and 12pm.  Learn how Aboriginal people survive by hunting and gathering in the desert.

Every Tuesday and Friday between 8.30am and 9.30am join us for Bush Knick Knacks and try your hand at native crafts using seeds, nuts and leaves.

Tuesday’s between 2.30pm and 3.00pm, take part in a fun way of learning the local language, Arrernte using bingo!

On Friday’s between 2pm and 3pm learn how fire was an important resource in our culture and survival at ‘Ure! Our tool the fire.

Standard entry fees to the Desert Park apply or a valid Territorian Pass is required.  Activities are free once you have entered the Desert Park.

The full NAIDOC Week program can be downloaded from www.alicespringsdesertpark.com.au or follow Alice Springs Desert Park on Facebook.

Media Contact - Paul Ah Chee ‘Ngala’ 0419 814 851