CAHS celebrates 50 Years Deadly during NAIDOC Week

Child and Adolescent Health Service (CAHS) staff, children and families came together throughout NAIDOC Week to celebrate and recognise the rich cultures, histories and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

This year’s theme, 50 Years Deadly, marked a significant milestone for NAIDOC Week, recognising five decades of celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, culture and resilience.

A range of events across Perth Children's Hospital (PCH) provided opportunities for staff, children and families to celebrate culture.

The week began with a Welcome to Country and Water Ceremony, delivered by Robyn Collard and Tryse Rioli.

Staff and visitors also enjoyed a special performance by the PCH Choir, featuring songs in English, Noongar and Yorta Yorta languages, accompanied by a didgeridoo player from Mirliny.

A series of Noongar language lessons provided staff with an opportunity to strengthen their understanding of local language and culture, while the Koorliny Moort and CAHS Aboriginal Health Team-hosted Grand Round presentation, Truth and Connection, encouraged meaningful discussion about Aboriginal health and cultural understanding.

Presented by Head of Department Koorliny Moort Dr Samantha Kaiser and Director Aboriginal Health Mel Robinson, alongside guest speakers, the session explored the importance of truth-telling, connection and delivering culturally safe healthcare.

Children and families also took part in a variety of activities throughout the week. The School of Special Education Needs: Medical and Mental Health screened Six Noongar Seasons with Digital Artists in Residence, supported by the Perth Children's Hospital Foundation.

Students from Governor Stirling Senior High School's Maali Dancers and West Beechboro Primary School also delivered engaging dance and choir performances.

The celebrations concluded with culturally inspired activities hosted by Milliyaan Aboriginal Services in the PCH Atrium. Storytelling, sensory games, language activities and interactive resources gave children and families the opportunity to learn about Aboriginal culture in a fun and engaging way.

CAHS Director Aboriginal Health Mel Robinson said NAIDOC Week was an important opportunity to celebrate the enduring strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and cultures.

"The 50 Years Deadly theme recognises the achievements, resilience and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the past five decades, while also looking ahead to the next generation," Ms Robinson said.

The week strengthened our commitment to reconciliation and creating culturally safe environments for Aboriginal children, young people, families and staff across all CAHS services.