This year’s Gai-mariagal Festival in North Sydney offers a special line-up of family-friendly events designed to spark curiosity, creativity and connection across generations.
From storytelling and bushwalks to hands-on art workshops, the program invites children and carers to engage with the richness of First Nations culture in meaningful and playful ways.
What’s on for kids and families:
- Saturday 14 June, Indigenous Culture Family Walk and Stone Art Workshop
Connect with culture and Country on a guided bushwalk at the Coal Loader with Koori Kinnections. Then get creative with an Aboriginal stone art activity designed for all ages.
- Sunday 22 June, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Walk
Bus to North Head for a guided bushwalk with Karen Smith from the Aboriginal Heritage Office and the Bushland team. This experience is recommended for children aged 12 and over.
- Friday 4 July, NAIDOC Week Storytime
Celebrate NAIDOC Week with stories and songs at Stanton Library’s regular Storytime session.
- Monday 7 July, July Jammies: Sand Art for NAIDOC Week
Join us for a fun Indigenous sand art workshop this NAIDOC Week during the school holidays.
North Sydney Mayor Zoë Baker said the family program plays a vital role in building connections across the community.
“Children are natural learners. By creating spaces for them to connect with culture through story, art, and nature, we build a foundation for lifelong respect and understanding.”
The 2025 program is part of a region-wide celebration of First Nations culture. It coincides with National Sorry Day (26 May), Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June) and NAIDOC Week (6 to 14 July). The festival theme, Legacies for Future Generations, reflects the enduring knowledge, creativity and strength passed down through First Nations communities.
For full program details and bookings, visit northsydney.nsw.gov.au/gai-mariagal
Visit the Gai-mariagal Festival website at gai-mariagal-festival.com.au
ENDS
Contact details:
02 9936 8196
