Community members in Harvey gathered on Friday for a special evening celebrating 50 Years of Deadly — this year’s NAIDOC Week theme.

Last week marked NAIDOC Week, a nationally recognised time honouring the culture, achievements and history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

To mark the annual celebration, Harvey Aboriginal Corporation and Shire of Harvey hosted their first formal NAIDOC dinner on Friday.

Attendees were treated to a home-style dinner from Lucy’s Catering, alongside a cultural performance, an educational film and the opportunity to meet and catch-up with those in the community.

Certificates of appreciation were also awarded during the night to elders Greg Little, Margaret Little, Vincent Little, Lesley Ugle and Dennis Jetta.

Speaking at the event, shire president Michelle Campbell said the shire had a longstanding partnership with the Harvey Aboriginal Corporation, with many people to thank for their shared achievements.

“I want to thank the elders and the wider Bindjareb community who have generously shared their art, their stories, guidance and knowledge with us over the years, enriching our region and understanding of the place that we are fortunate to also call home,” she said.

“I look forward to continuing this relationship and the opportunities to recognise and celebrate our continued growth and achievement in the years to come. “