NAIDOC WEEK
WHAT’S ON IN CAIRNS:
WOMEN that have been the backbone of the Cairns indigenous community, such as Amelia Remedio, 89, are finally starting to see their hard work come to the forefront with this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations.
With this year’s theme, “Because of Her We Can”, focusing on the strength of women and the role they play in the community, elders such as Ms Remedio are being recognised for the ways they’ve contributed over the years.
“I think women are more forward and doing a lot more now,” she said.
“I think the men in the community have a lot to learn from women.
“It’s especially important for the younger ones to learn these lessons of respect because, one day, they’ll be the elders.”
Ms Remedio was born on Thursday Island but moved to the mainland at the age of 13 during World War II.
She moved around a lot during that time, eventually settling down in Babinda to raise five children.
She moved to Cairns just two years ago.
The Cairns community’s indigenous elders were honoured with an Elder Luncheon at the Nintiringanyi Cultural Training Centre on Saturday.
With a hearty two-course feed and live entertainment running throughout the day, it gave the elders of the community a chance to relax and share their experiences.
Cairns elder Rae Kelly, who also celebrated her 80th birthday at the luncheon, said no matter how society changed, the core role of men and women in the community was the same.
“Once they realise what Aboriginal culture is all about, even though men are the hunters, women are the gatherers and that’s how it’s always been,” she said. “Men may be the leaders, but women are the strength behind them.”
Ms Remedio said she was excited to get up on stage at the Elder Luncheon to play her ukulele for the crowd.