Significant Dates for Indigenous Australians in July
Each month, Mainie presents a calendar of events in Indigenous Australian history to raise awareness of our 65,000-year-old cultural heritage and the ongoing campaign for recognition and justice.
In July, we commemorate several significant events for Australia's First Nations peoples—moments of both tragedy and triumph, reflection and celebration:
July 1843 – Warrigal Creek Massacre, Gippsland
In July 1843, Angus McMillan and his Highland Brigade surrounded a group of Gunaikurnai people at Warrigal Creek, killing as many as 180 men, women and children purportedly in retaliation for the death of a shopkeeper.
The massacres at Warrigal Creek are a stark reminder of the violent dispossession of First Nations people in the early years of European colonisation. Within two decades, the thriving Gunaikurnai population was almost completely decimated. Today, efforts continue to ensure this dark chapter of our history is remembered within a context of truth, justice and reconciliation.
1 July – Coming of the Light Festival
Coming of the Light is a major celebration for Torres Strait Islander peoples, marking the arrival of Christianity in the Torres Strait in 1871 through the London Missionary Society. The festival is celebrated with church services, feasts and cultural gatherings.
For Torres Strait Islander communities, Coming of the Light represents not only the introduction of new beliefs but also the adaptation and resilience of their culture. It is a time for families and communities to come together in faith, culture and unity, blending Torres Strait Islander traditions with Christian practices.
1 July 1953 – David Gulpilil Born
David Dhalatnghu Gulpilil AM, one of Australia’s greatest actors and dancers, was born in Arnhem Land. His groundbreaking film and cultural career brought First Nations stories to national and international audiences.
6 July 2019 – Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, located in southwestern Victoria, was formally recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 6 July 2019. This extraordinary site showcases one of the world’s oldest known aquaculture systems, engineered by the Gunditjmara people over 6,600 years ago to trap and harvest eels.
Budj Bim is a powerful testament to the ingenuity, sustainability and enduring connection of Aboriginal Australians to Country. Its World Heritage listing acknowledges not only the technical sophistication of the aquaculture system but also the living cultural traditions of the Gunditjmara people, who continue to care for their ancestral homelands.
9 July – Anniversary of the Aboriginal Flag
On 9 July 1971, the Aboriginal flag was first flown in Adelaide at a land rights rally. Designed by Harold Thomas, the flag has become a powerful symbol of Aboriginal identity, pride and resistance.
Its black, red and yellow colours represent the Aboriginal people, the land and the sun, respectively. Today, the Aboriginal flag flies proudly across Australia as a symbol of survival, cultural strength and the ongoing struggle for land rights, recognition and justice.
7 July – 14 July 2025 – NAIDOC Week
Theme: “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”
2025 marks the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, a national celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and achievements. This year’s theme highlights the emerging generation of leaders who will continue the legacy of those who have fought tirelessly for justice and recognition.
14 July 1972 – Deborah Mailman Born
Deborah Mailman AM, acclaimed actor, singer and trailblazer, was born in Mount Isa, Queensland. A proud Bidjara and Māori woman, she has paved the way for greater representation of First Nations people in Australian film, television and theatre.
28 July – Albert Namatjira Born
Albert Namatjira, a pioneering Arrernte artist, revolutionised Australian art with his vivid watercolours of the Central Australian landscape. His success challenged colonial prejudices and helped open the door for future generations of Aboriginal artists.
30 July 2022 – Archie Roach Passed Away
Archie Roach AM, beloved singer, songwriter and advocate for the Stolen Generations, passed away in July 2022. His music told powerful stories of loss, survival and healing, resonating deeply with Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians alike.
Conclusion
July’s calendar of events in Indigenous Australian history serves as a reminder of both resilience and tragedy. From the brutal massacres at Warrigal Creek to the global recognition of Budj Bim’s ancient aquaculture systems and from the achievements of trailblazing Indigenous Australians like Albert Namatjira, David Gulpilil, Deborah Mailman and Archie Roach, these moments reflect an enduring journey of cultural strength, survival and excellence.
As we celebrate NAIDOC Week and honour the legacy of remarkable First Nations leaders and artists, we reaffirm our commitment to listening to and uplifting the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, shaping a shared future grounded in truth, recognition and respect.
