The COVA offices and sites had a fantastic week celebrating NAIDOC week, fostering a sense of unity and cultural appreciation. Here are some highlights from the week's festivities:
The Sydney team, along with our neighboring office MG Consulting, came together for a delightful morning tea. During the morning tea, the group took the opportunity to learn about the significance of NAIDOC week, its origin, and the new initiatives that COVA is undertaking to support and engage with Indigenous communities. This knowledge-sharing session helped deepen the team's understanding of NAIDOC week's importance and its broader cultural context. The Native Bush Tea was a hit & we would like to thank Goanna Hut for the delicious catering.
The Melbourne team looked the part in our new Indigenous-themed high-vis vests. Taking advantage of the new workplace they gathered for a morning tea catered by Mabu Mabu. Mirvac also organised NAIDOC Week events at The Olderfleet building, housing the Melbourne Office. These events included a Yidaki performance in the lobby, informative sessions on native plants with Indigrow, and native bush teas from Kakadu Plum Co. Our team had the privilege of participating and listening to captivating cultural activities.
The Hobart team was in for a treat with a lavish lunch inspired by native cuisine. The incredibly talented young chef Djuker Wills Hart, a Wakka-Wakka, Kuku-yanaji, and Butchula man, prepared an Indigenous-style wallaby couscous. To enhance the experience, Djuker also performed a Welcome to Country Smoke Ceremony, providing a memorable cultural moment for all staff to enjoy.
At the Fremantle Ports Clinker Import Circuit Facility, a traditional Indigenous breakfast was supplied by Gather Foods. Fremantle Ports Authority and RC Construction joined the COVA team for this meaningful gathering where Angus (Gus) McGuire, a Noongar, Whadjuk man, delivered a Welcome to Country, adding a deep cultural significance to the occasion.
See the link for Welcome to Country, by Angus McGuire: https://lnkd.in/g59V7BWu
NAIDOC week not only provided an opportunity to savor traditional Indigenous foods but also served as a catalyst for bringing the teams and project partners closer together.
#naidoc2023 #naidocweek #culturalawareness
