NAIDOC Week celebrations are about coming together and sharing our culture; it is about unity not segregation, Margie Donnelly says.
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The Homebase Aboriginal youth services manager and co-organiser of this year's community family fun day at Cabarita Flats, Forster, Margie was understandably chuffed with the ongoing success of the annual celebration.
"Years ago you would never have seen a white face here," she said.
"It's getting bigger and better every year."
Joining the hundreds of revellers celebrating culture and diversity at Forster on Thursday, July 11 were more than 30 support services, amusements, activities and attractions.
Margie said as a result of the stolen generation, more and more people were finding and embracing their roots.
"We just keep doing what we do; trying to break down segregation.
"I also think Aboriginal people are the main culture which is not prejudice because we know what it's like not to be accepted."
The day opened with traditional dancing and a welcome from proud Worimi woman and Forster local, Lyn Davis, who reflected on her childhood and upbringing under the Aboriginal Protection Board.
She said it was a time of respect, sharing and caring for everyone in the community.
Despite the ever present institution, Ms Davis said she had a 'pretty good life'.
"Family was everything, we were self sufficient."
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