They began with a Monday excursion to visit some local Aboriginal historic sites and a Tuesday march, anticipated footy match and lots of activities for the kids.

Ashford Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) chairwoman Liza Duncan considered the week as she stood in the chilly sunshine on Tuesday morning as the crowd assembled for the NAIDOC march.

Liza said they had a few people come along for the tour, and it was a pleasure to see the sites again.

“They’re still in good shape, and it never ceases to amaze me when I got out there; you always find something new,” she said.

Liza said they are planning measures to fully protect the site.

“Because once it’s gone, it’s gone forever,” she said.

“Today’s a special day because it’s NAIDOC Week, and there’s a lot about walking on sacred land, respect, try to appreciate what we’ve got.”

As she spoke, young people turned up to make the march from the Ashford LALC to the Ashford Oval for the annual NSW Police versus Ashford footy match and a family fun day.

“That’s good that the kids are participating, because they’re the future, and they’re to carry it on,” Liza said.

Vicki Duncan stood with family, waiting to start the march.

She said the week was special because we are all walking on sacred ground.

“The turn-out’s really good and it’s good to see the community coming together, black and white,” she said.

Ashford LALC chief executive officer Pene Riggs agreed they had a good crowd, and felt the town footy team was in with a healthy chance against the police.

“Look, we did win on a bit of a technicality last year; it was a draw and we won because Queensland won,” she said.

The enthusiastic clatter of boys in their football boots rang out on the pavement around Pene.

“I think we’ve got quite a strong side, so I think they’ll be lucky to get over us,” she grinned.

The crowd made their way with speed to the oval, bearing flags and enthusiasm.

Aboriginal artist Rod McIntosh met them at the oval. He planned an art workshop with the community.

“It’s basically about introducing them to Kamilaroi symbols and meaning with the artwork, and showing them what traditional art is all about, and that it’s not just a painting, it’s a story in itself.”

His young daughter Brieea is an artist, and she said she was excited to take part in the day.

“Because I’m an Aboriginal,” she said.

Liza’s grandson Ky-mani Duncan shared Breea’s feelings.

Ky-mani is in year 1 at Ross Hill School, and played the didgeridoo for the school’s NAIDOC assembly.

He marched with his family in Ashford on Tuesday, and felt proud to be part of the day.

“Because it’s deadly,” Ky-mani said with a shy smile.