Amy Kilby

Badhiin

Badhiin is a tribute to grandmothers, celebrating the profound journey they have undertaken and the pivotal choices they have made. It honors their enduring legacy, recognizing that without their strength, wisdom, and guidance, we would not be where we are today. This piece reflects the indelible impact of their lives, acknowledging that the paths they have forged and the sacrifices they have made are the very foundation of our existence.

Women's Business

Women's Business represents all the women at the camp who come together in harmony to tell their stories and raise their children as one.

Miyagan

Miyagan represents your family, be it blood or chosen. Your support system, the people you trust and love the most in the world and the connection you have with each other.

Bila

Bila represents all the rivers that act as a natural meeting and resting place for us mob. Depicting how the water cleanses and sustains life.

Mingaan

Mingaan is a heartfelt tribute to sisters, celebrating their profound impact on our lives. It reflects the deep admiration and love we hold for our sisters, acknowledging the unbreakable bond and mutual devotion that defines our relationship. Sisters are our lifelong allies, always ready to support us, just as we would do anything for them.

Ngabaan

Ngabaan is a tribute to all aunts, celebrating the pivotal role they play in our upbringing. It honors their invaluable contributions as mentors and guides, recognising the love, wisdom, and support they provide throughout our lives. This piece reflects the special bond we share with our aunts, acknowledging their vital presence in shaping who we are and nurturing our growth with care and dedication.

Celebrating Our Future

'Celebrating Our Future' centres around the Corroboree symbol, representing the gathering of Elders and younger generations in a shared celebration of culture, connection, and legacy. The Corroboree is a powerful expression of unity and community, where stories are shared, traditions are honoured, and the spirit of togetherness is celebrated. It reflects the heart of NAIDOC Week, showcasing how the wisdom of our ancestors guides us to strengthen the path for future generations.

The vibrant, celebratory colours echo the joy and pride of our people, embodying the richness and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. The radiating lines and circular patterns signify the interconnectedness of all generations, with the ripple effect symbolising the enduring impact of shared knowledge and respect. This design is a tribute to the ongoing journey of cultural preservation and the strength that comes from standing together.

Our Legacy is in Our Hands

The circular design of interwoven hands represents the strength of unity across generations—how each hand contributes to the unbreakable bond of community and culture. The hands symbolise the interconnected roles of Elders, current leaders, and the next generation, working together to build a future rooted in respect, resilience, and pride in heritage.

At the centre of the hands lies the phrase ‘the next generation’ embodying the heart of this design. It signifies how the future rests in the hands of those who come after us, nurtured by the wisdom of our ancestors and supported by the strength of current leaders. This central placement highlights the shared responsibility to guide, uplift, and empower young leaders to carry forward the enduring legacy of our people.

Surrounding the hands are footsteps, animal tracks, and community symbols, signifying the journey of our people through time. The footsteps represent the guidance of our ancestors, who have paved the way with wisdom and determination. The animal tracks symbolise the deep connection to Country and the spirit of endurance. Together, they remind us of the legacy we inherit and the responsibility we carry to honour it.

The words strength, vision, and legacy also encircle the design, reflecting the essence of NAIDOC week’s 2025 theme. This design captures the milestone of 50 years of NAIDOC, celebrating the resilience of our communities while looking forward with hope and determination as the next generation carries the torch of progress.

Wurung (Branches)

Wurung (Branches) is all about connection, resilience, and the legacy of our people.

At the centre is a tree, its roots representing our ancestors and their strength, grounding us in culture and history. The branches stretching upwards reflect the next generation, a symbol of growth, renewal, and the continuation of our story.

The footsteps leading to the tree remind us of the paths our Elders have walked. They’ve paved the way with their wisdom, resilience, and determination, creating opportunities for us to follow. Scattered across the design are symbols of our beautiful country - mountains, rocks, waterholes, and camps - showcasing the diversity of our tribes and the connection we all share with the land. The animal tracks tie in the wildlife that walks alongside us, reminding us of the importance of caring for all of the country.

The flowing lines signify the strong connections between our people and the land - it’s a bond that runs deep and holds us together. Corroboree symbols are woven throughout, celebrating the resilience, strength, and cultural pride that have been carried forward through generations. They show the ways we come together to honour our Elders and their enduring legacy.

This piece is a tribute to the roots planted by our Elders and ancestors - the foundations they’ve built and the paths they’ve paved for the next generation to flourish. It’s their strength, wisdom, and leadership that continue to guide us and inspire us to walk proudly in their footsteps.

50 Years of NAIDOC

This design represents the incredible journey of our people over the thousands of years on this land. The 50 is brought to life through symbols that showcase the depth of our culture and connection to Country.

Each element has been thoughtfully included: plants and animals represent the natural world that has always sustained us, while community symbols and camps highlight the strength and unity of our people. Water, the lifeblood of our land, flows through the design, symbolising renewal and continuity. The footprints show the paths our people have walked, the enduring connection to Country, and the resilience that has carried us forward.

This design is a celebration of resilience, strength, and connection. It not only honours the 50 years of NAIDOC Week but also recognises the ongoing legacy of 65,000 years of survival, culture, and knowledge. It's a reminder of the journey we've taken, the stories we've shared, and the future we continue to build together.

Yirra

Yirra represents the passage of time and the growth from adolescence to adulthood. The connections we make along the way and the spiritual journey we need to undertake to find ourselves.

Wumbi

Wumbi celebrates uncles, honoring their unique role as mentors, protectors, and companions. It reflects the wisdom, humor, and support they bring, guiding us through life with care and encouragement. Uncles hold a special place in our hearts, offering strength and friendship while enriching our journey in countless ways.

Ngabun

Ngabun honors grandfathers, the steadfast leaders of our families and the roots of our existence. It celebrates their wisdom, strength, and enduring love, acknowledging the sacrifices and choices that paved the way for us. Grandfathers are our guiding lights, shaping our path with their legacy and unwavering presence.

Dilaang

Dilaang is a heartfelt tribute to brothers, celebrating the profound influence they have on our lives. It honors their steadfast presence, the comfort of their company, and the sense of protection they provide as we grow. Brothers share a unique bond, walking a similar journey of growth, learning, and self-discovery. This piece reflects the mutual respect, support, and unspoken understanding that defines this relationship, acknowledging the enduring impact of having a brother by our side through life’s challenges and triumphs.

Babiin

Babiin is a tribute to fathers, celebrating their unwavering strength, guidance, and love. It honors their pivotal role as protectors, providers, and role models, shaping the foundation of who we are. This piece reflects the profound bond between fathers and their children, acknowledging the lessons they impart, the sacrifices they make, and the enduring support they offer through every stage of life. Fathers are a source of wisdom and inspiration, always standing as pillars of love and resilience.