Abstract dark blue pattern with curved and geometric lines and shapes, resembling stylised waves or leaves, on a matching dark blue background.

Places

bilya – laugh

wunyawuri – make believe, do something in jest

wumara – run as an animal (also fly)

dyanmila – play

Sporting and leisure activities reinforced social connections within Sydney’s Aboriginal community, but they also had a political dimension. From 1964 the Foundation for Aboriginal Affairs helped with housing, employment, education and welfare, as well as organising fundraising dances for the Redfern All Blacks football team. The success of this team was a significant component in the shift towards self-determination within Sydney’s Aboriginal community in the 1960s and 70s.

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  • Foundation for Aboriginal Affairs

    Foundation for Aboriginal Affairs

    The headquarters of the Foundation for Aboriginal Affairs on George Street was opened in October 1966. In addition to providing welfare support for Aboriginal people migrating to Sydney from regional…

  • Henry Jones IXL jam factory

    Henry Jones IXL jam factory

    Sydney has long been a magnet for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people seeking work opportunities, shelter and connections with community and family. Many worked in private industry in Sydney’s…

  • NAIDOC Week in Sydney

    NAIDOC Week in Sydney

    NAIDOC Week had its foundations in Sydney just over 80 years ago. There was a growing political activism within Sydney’s Aboriginal community in the early 20th century. The formation of…

  • Australian Hall

    Australian Hall

    This was where Aboriginal rights activist Jack Patten read the resolution on citizenship rights at the Day of Mourning Conference on 26 January 1938, which only Aboriginal people were allowed…