Discover Invasion Day Events Across Australia
January 26 holds significant historical importance for Australia as it marks the colonisation of this vast land. However, for First Nations people, this date represents more than just a historical event. It symbolizes the grief, heartache, and enduring pain inflicted upon generations, serving as a stark reminder of the profound impact of colonisation on Indigenous communities.
Amidst the shadows of sorrow, January 26 also presents an opportunity for recognition and solidarity. It is a moment to acknowledge the ongoing survival of the world’s oldest existing culture and to deepen our understanding of the First Nations’ struggle. By participating in Invasion Day events, we can actively stand in solidarity with First Nations people and commemorate their resilience.
To help you engage in this important day, we have compiled a guide to Invasion Day events happening across Australia. Join us in being informed and actively participating in these events to show your support for First Nations people.
We will continue to update this list as more events pop up.
Eora/Sydney:
- Dawn Reflection: A reflective ceremony at Circular Quay from 5:20 am, with the Sydney Opera House lit up with Aboriginal artwork.
- Invasion Day 2024 March: Rally at Belmore Park from 9:30 am, followed by a march through Sydney CBD. A simultaneous march in Newcastle starts at Customs House, leading to the AwabaMi Festival at Foreshore Park.
- The WugulOra Ceremony: Broadcasting from Barangaroo Reserve at 7:30 am on NITV, featuring a smoking ceremony, dance, and language.
- Yabun Festival: Celebrating over 20 years at Victoria Park from 10 am to 6 pm, with live music, market stalls, panel discussions, children’s activities, and performances.
- Blak Powerhouse: Powerhouse Museum collaboration from 5 pm, turning a day of sorrow into a celebration of power and positivity, with performances from the likes of Maanyung, Mi-kaisha, Rona, Miss Kaninna, Becca Hatch, 3%, and JK-47, as well as “surprise special guests.”
Boorloo/Perth:
- Invasion Day 2024 Protest: Rally at Forrest Chase from 12 pm, emphasizing COVID-safe practices.
- Birak Concert: Annual concert by the City of Perth at Supreme Court Gardens from 3:30 pm.
Ngunnawal Country/Canberra:
Tarndanya/Adelaide:
- Mourning in the Morning: Reflective event at Elder Park from 8 am featuring a smoking ceremony and performances by First Nations artists.
- Survival Day March 2024: Starting at Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga at 12:30 pm.
Meanjin/Brisbane:
- Invasion Day Rally: Kicks off at 9 am at Queens Gardens, followed by a march to Musgrave Park.
- We Have Survived!: Event at Sunshine Coast City Hall from 9 am to 1 pm.
Naarm/Melbourne:
- Dawn Service: Commencing at Kings Domain Resting Place, Linlithgow Avenue at 5 am.
- Pilk Purriyn Truth Telling: From 5:30 am to 7 am at Cosy Corner Beach, featuring truth-telling and a smoking ceremony in partnership with Surf Coast Shire Council.
- Invasion Day 2024 Protest: Rally at 10 am at Victorian Parliament, marching to Flinders St Station.
- Our Survival Day: Event at The Briars from 11 am with performances by Christine Anu, Jalgany, and Kaiit, along with food stalls and markets.
- Balit Nurred/Share the Spirit Festival: At Sidney Myer Music Bowl starting at 11:30 am.
Garramilla/Darwin:
Nipaluna / Hobart:
Limilinaturi / Devonport:
Plug into the latest music with our FREE weekly newsletter
About the Author
“As an advocate for Indigenous rights and cultural preservation, I believe it is crucial to actively participate in Invasion Day events. By standing in solidarity with First Nations people, we can honor their resilience and contribute to the ongoing recognition of their culture. Let us come together on January 26 to commemorate, learn, and support the First Nations’ struggle.”
Conclusion
January 26 is a day that holds both historical significance and deep emotional weight for Australia’s First Nations people. While it marks the colonisation of this land, it also serves as a reminder of the enduring pain inflicted upon Indigenous communities. However, amidst this sorrow, Invasion Day events provide an opportunity for recognition, solidarity, and a deeper understanding of the First Nations’ struggle. By actively participating in these events, we can show our support for Indigenous communities and contribute to the ongoing survival of the world’s oldest existing culture.
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
