17 – 21 August 2026
Indigenous Week at La Trobe University is a time to celebrate, recognise and engage with the diverse cultures, knowledges and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across our campuses.
Held each August, this week reflects La Trobe’s ongoing commitment to truth-telling, reconciliation and embedding Indigenous perspectives throughout the university community.
This week is not just a series of events; it’s about sharing and connection to community, Country and culture. All members of the La Trobe community, including students, are invited to listen deeply, walk alongside, participate in activities, share a meal and contribute to a culturally respectful and inclusive university environment.
Why it matters
Sue Tuitupou, Cultural Capabilities Facilitator with the Office of Indigenous Strategy and Education (Jimbeyer Boondjhil Indigenous Unit), shares her reflections on the significance of Indigenous Week and why it matters:
“Indigenous Week is a culturally grounded, strengths-based Indigenous Week program that brings staff, students and community together,” Sue Tuitupou, Cultural Capabilities Facilitator with the Office of Indigenous Strategy and Education, Jimbeyer Boondjhil Indigenous Unit, Bendigo Campus says.
“Led by respected Aboriginal Elders, artists, students and community members, the week centres Aboriginal ways of knowing, being and doing through welcoming and inclusive workshops. Each activity creates meaningful opportunities for yarning, practical learning and skill-sharing, enabling those attending to engage directly and respectfully with Aboriginal Knowledge Holders while showcasing the strength, diversity and continuation of Aboriginal cultures.”
Celebration of culture
Indigenous Week honours the oldest living cultures in the world, celebrating the strength, diversity and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Each campus curates its program in collaboration with Indigenous Advisors and Engagement Officers, ensuring locally grounded and culturally relevant experiences.
Education and awareness
The week is an opportunity for all students, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, to learn about the histories, languages, protocols and lived experiences of First Nations peoples. This aligns with La Trobe’s Indigenous Strategy 2022–2030, which prioritises cultural capability and systemic change.
Connection to Country
Each La Trobe campus is located on the lands of various Traditional Custodians. Indigenous Week promotes place-based cultural understanding by connecting students and staff with Aboriginal community members, Elders, Traditional Owners and Indigenous organisations.
Getting involved
Join one of the many events happening across our campuses during Indigenous Week! Meet new people, learn something new and get involved. See what’s on below:
Melbourne (Bundoora) campus – Wurundjeri Country
Welcome to Country, Smoking Ceremony, didgeridoo performance and guest speakers
Monday 17 August, 11am – 12pm
Location: Agora & Ngarn-gi Bagora
All staff and students welcome
Join the Welcome to Country in the Agora with didgeridoo playing and guest speakers. This will be followed by lunch and activities in the Ngarn-gi Bagora Indigenous student centre (Level 2 of the Agora).
Bendigo campus – Dja Dja Wurrung Country
The Bendigo campus is hosting a range of activities throughout the week, with Jonny Cake making and preparing over the coals taking place each day. Activities include creating Kewpie dolls and learning about the history, a traditional weaving workshop and a spirit bird creation – traditional pendant making workship (for men only).
Activities will be held at the Ironbark Centre, Flora Hill. See all activities below:
Event dates: 17–21 August 2026
Location: Ironbark Centre, La Trobe University, Flora Hill
All welcome
Monday 17 August
Kewpie Doll Creations and History — Session 1
Time: 10:30 am–12 pm
Facilitators: Daisy, Wamba Wamba & Pawpaw Marlene
Capacity: Limited to 10 people
Kewpie Doll Creations and History — Session 2
Time: 1 pm–2:30 pm
Facilitators: Daisy, Wamba Wamba & Pawpaw Marlene
Capacity: Limited to 10 people
Tuesday 18 August
Traditional Weaving Techniques
Time: 10 am–2 pm
Facilitators: Aunty Janet, Yorta Yorta
Capacity: Limited to 15 people
Wednesday 19 August
Fire Pit Yarning, Mindful Drawing, Impressions from Country with Charcoal
Time: 10 am–2 pm
Facilitator: Annie, Yorta Yorta
Capacity: Limited to 15 people
Spirit Bird Creations – Traditional Pendant Making
Time: 10 am–2 pm daily
Facilitators: Arron, Wiradjuri
Capacity: Limited to 12 men only
Thursday 20 August
Creative Art Making
Time: 10 am–2 pm
Facilitator: Aunty Janet, Yorta Yorta
Capacity: Limited to 15 people
Spirit Bird Creations – Traditional Pendant Making
Time: 10 am–2 pm
Facilitators: Arron, Wiradjuri
Capacity: Limited to 12 men only
Friday 21 August
Wood Burning and Bead Making
Time: 10 am–2 pm
Facilitators: Michellie, Palawa
Capacity: Limited to 20 people
Spirit Bird Creations – Traditional Pendant Making
Time: 10 am–2 pm
Facilitators: Arron, Wiradjuri
Capacity: Limited to 12 men only
Activities & Catering Available Every Day
Jonny Cake making and preparing over the coals
Facilitators: Sue and Eb (Baakandji)
Morning tea and hearty lunch provided every day.
Registration / Contact
Contact: Sue Tuitupou
Email: s.tuitupou@latrobe.edu.au
Phone: 0473 461 029
Email Sue with your RSVP to avoid missing out.
Mildura campus – Latji Latji / Barkindji Country
Welcome to Country, Smoking Ceremony & art workshops
Tuesday 18 August, 10:30am to 2:30pm
Location: Seminar Room 1
All staff and students welcome
Our Mildura campus is hosting a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, followed by art workshops on Tuesday 18 August. All students are welcome and encouraged to attend and get involved in the activities. Uncle Col Clark, a well-known local Elder, will run art workshops and join staff and students for some food and story sharing. The art workshops involve creating artifacts and painting canvases.
