Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is proud to present a vibrant program of NAIDOC Week Celebrations, inviting visitors of all ages to connect with First Peoples’ culture through art, storytelling, dance, music and bushfood experiences.

Taking place across three days, the program highlights the richness of Aboriginal culture while offering interactive, family-friendly activities set within the beautiful Australian Garden.

Families are encouraged to join cultural nature, art and storytelling sessions led by Skyla Lauch from Living Culture. These hands-on sessions invite children to explore their creativity while getting inspired by the natural environment and cultural perspectives. 

Visitors can also enjoy a lively day of performances at the Ian Potter Lawn Precinct, featuring the internationally acclaimed Djarlo Dance Group led by renowned yidaki player Ganga Giri. With powerful rhythms and dynamic storytelling, Djarlo’s performance celebrates the depth and diversity of Aboriginal cultural expression.

Adding to the excitement, Indigenous Outreach Projects Hip-Hop (IOP) will deliver an energetic, interactive dance workshop encouraging participation through their message of pride, respect and wellbeing, using the arts to inspire positive change.

Visitors can also deepen their connection to Country through guided bushfood walking tours with Living Culture’s Hudson Fraser, exploring native plants and their significance to First Peoples. Complementing this experience, First Peoples artist Sammy Trist will lead bushfood-inspired truffle-making sessions, introducing participants to native ingredients in a fun and engaging way.

Across the program, Botanic Gardens Learning Facilitators will host drop-in craft activities offering creative opportunities to make and take-home unique pieces inspired by Australian flora and fauna.

Through this diverse program, Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne continues its commitment to fostering understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal culture and knowledge, providing meaningful opportunities for connection to Country.

Visitors are encouraged to come along, participate, and celebrate NAIDOC Week in a welcoming and inclusive environment.