Dawn Daylight: A story of culture, creativity and family this NAIDOC Week

A respected Aboriginal artist, singer and storyteller shares her journey of identity, creativity and connection this NAIDOC Week.

With permission, we share the story of Aunty Dawn Daylight, a respected Yugerra, Turrbal and Jarrowair South Sea Islander woman whose life reflects culture, creativity, resilience and the power of storytelling.

NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate First Nations culture, leadership and truth-telling.

Born in Churchill on the outskirts of Ipswich, Dawn grew up surrounded by family, culture and community.

“Our house was like a safe haven for Aboriginal people,” she said. “My mother always had hot stew on the stove. It was one of the few places where people could just be themselves.”

While her family was impacted by the Stolen Generations, Dawn has continued to draw strength from her identity, family and community throughout her life.

Today, Dawn is an accomplished artist, singer, writer and cultural storyteller whose work is deeply connected to culture, identity and lived experience.

Through visual art, she creates powerful works that reflect connection to Country, family and storytelling. Her artworks have featured in community exhibitions and public art projects across Brisbane, helping to celebrate and honour First Nations cultures.

“I put my energy into piano, guitar and writing music,” she said. “And at my age, I’m still here to do that. I’m still here to tell my story.”

Her creativity has also reached wider audiences through her feature in the SBS short film Lost Daylight, which follows her journey of reflection, identity and reconnection with family.

For Dawn, NAIDOC Week is about family, culture and pride in who she is.

“NAIDOC to me means having a place where we can come together with song, dance and community.”

Now living at BlueCare Tangara Retirement Village, Dawn has found a place that continues to support her creativity, independence and sense of belonging.

“I think what I like most is I never really had a place where you have your own space,” she said. “Now I come here and this is my place.”

At BlueCare Tangara, Dawn’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience and cultural richness of First Nations communities, and the importance of sharing stories with respect, care and cultural integrity.