Dhurranmay-Gal Dhirrabuu: (Outstanding Leaders)

50 Years of Deadly

Tamworth NAIDOC Committee 2026

Dhurranmay-Gal Dhirrabuu pays tribute to, the Outstanding Leaders from our First Nations Community. Photographers Danny Dalton, Tess Reading, Janine Way, Jordan Barber and Josh Turner are well known First Nations photographers in the Tamworth region with a passion for capturing special moments and highlighting the positive qualities of individuals, families, and community. The Outstanding Leaders were nominated by members of the community, to acknowledge their commitment and ongoing contribution to Tamworth and the Kamilaroi / Gamilaroi / Gomeroi Nation.

Our Outstanding Leaders have a deep understanding of community issues, have in their own ways brought community members together, broadened networks to draw on for input and support.

For fifty years, NAIDOC themes have spoken to survival, resistance, culture and pride. They have honoured Elders and leaders, celebrated creativity, and challenged the nation to listen, reckon and act. Each theme has marked a moment in time, capturing where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were, and where the country needs to pay attention.

50 Years of Deadly is both a reflection and a declaration. It acknowledges the strength it has taken to reach this milestone, not by chance, but because generations of people refused to be silenced. It recognises the organisers, artists, activists and communities who carried NAIDOC forward year after year, ensuring it remained grounded in culture and community.

NAIDOC Week, which first began in 1975, provides an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.

We acknowledge our Elders, our youth, our artists, our teachers, our knowledge sharers, and our carers. We honour their contribution; we recognize their efforts and give thanks for their achievements and their strong spirit.