50 Years of NAIDOC

Program Coordinator Sabine Bird shares the July update from the Laverton Cycling Project, following an incredible week of NAIDOC celebrations in Laverton.

“We have just wrapped up an incredible week of NAIDOC celebrations – and where to begin… 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the NAIDOC movement and deserved a special commemoration, showcasing a collection of historic photos and promotional posters, biographies and statements of key persons, and the revival of impactful local designs (including our Perth to Laverton jerseys designed by a local young artist).”

A week of activities for everyone

The whole week featured a stacked program of activities for everyone—not just sporting activities such as the Laverton Cycling Project’s bike riding sessions and bike fixing workshop, but also arts projects, bush skills, dancing, face-painting, lunches, yarns, a book launch and a presentation by the Yellow Ribbon Foundation.

The program also included a youth ball and disco, the inter-school footy carnival and, of course, the beloved darts competition. Every local and external organisation contributed events and supported one another whenever a spare minute and free hand were available.

Stronger relationships across Laverton

“While we are all ready for a well-deserved break, the spirits are high, we fostered new relationships and strengthened existing ones. It feels the whole community grew together more last week, and we feel incredibly privileged to have played a small part in it.”

The week reflected the importance of participation, collaboration and connection across the community. Sabine’s selected images focus on events in which the CDF actively participated, volunteered or conducted sessions.

Celebrating the Perth to Laverton journey

Looking back across the Perth to Laverton Cycling Classic events held over several years brings back many good memories. CDF thanks every volunteer, participant and organiser who helped make these events possible.

Participants, volunteers and organisers at the old Laverton youth centre after a community riding session — “Throwback afternoon: riding session finish at the old youth centre. These kids have grown up a bit since then but are still around to ride bikes with us when we are back in town!” – view the original Facebook post.

See more from NAIDOC week

A collection of posts from the whole week is available on the Laverton NAIDOC Facebook page. A selection specific to the CDF’s work can also be viewed in the updated July Dropbox folder.

Thank you all for making this happen!