Walking with respect: Tabitha reflects on NAIDOC Week
We caught up with Tabitha Hurst, who is an identified Support Practitioner based at Churches of Christ’s Townsville Foster and Kinship Care office. Here’s Tabitha’s reflections on NAIDOC Week in her own words.
NAIDOC Week is a time to listen, learn, and stand beside us—not just in celebration, but in truth. I invite non-Indigenous Australians to walk with us respectfully, to honour the strength of our Elders, the spirit of our young ones, and the richness of the oldest living culture in the world. True reconciliation starts with understanding, action, and acknowledging the history that still lives in our present. This week isn’t just ours—it’s a chance for all Australians to grow together.
NAIDOC to me is a time of reflection and connection; I try to attend community events but will often spend time with my family on country, connecting to my history and ancestors. The week is usually spent with my children. This is on country, at the beach or national parks connecting with earth. There is always traditional food shared and a chance to tell stories and knowledge.
To me personally, the theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision, Legacy, is a reminder that we are part of something greater. It’s our chance to share knowledge We are the bridge between those who walked before us and those who walk after us. It’s a call to uplift our young ones with strength, inspire them with vision, and ground them in a legacy that can never be broken.
I was told, ‘Don’t forget where you come from, and always carry your people with you’.
My role at Churches of Christ allows me to share stories, knowledge and wisdom with the younger generation especially those in out of home care. I take great pride in knowing I play a part in supporting connection, identity and culture with children and young people.
For the future, how do you see yourself staying connected to your culture and traditions?
Being connected to Country grounds me, it teaches me responsibility, respect, and how to listen deeply. It reminds me that I am part of something ancient and powerful, and that I carry that within me wherever I go
When I’m on Country, I feel whole. The land, the water, the sky—they all hold our stories, our ancestors, and our strength.