Fitzroy Valley comes together for FASD Awareness Day 2026
The day began with a community march through Fitzroy Crossing, bringing people together behind a shared message of greater understanding, inclusion and support for people living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), their families and the wider community.
It was particularly wonderful to see so many children and young people taking part. Young people walked alongside families, Elders, Community members and local organisations, carrying banners and sharing messages of strong babies, strong families and strong communities.
The march was followed by a community celebration with guest speakers, activities, live music, food and opportunities for people to come together, connect and learn.
A Community with a long history of leadership
Fitzroy Crossing has a long and important history of community-led action around FASD.
MWRC, along with local families, Aboriginal leaders, researchers, health services and Community-controlled organisations, have worked over many years to build awareness and understanding of FASD and advocate for better prevention, diagnosis and support.
FASD Awareness Day is an opportunity to continue that work, but also to celebrate the strength of the people and families at its centre.
Building an inclusive community means moving beyond stigma and judgement. It means understanding FASD, recognising the strengths and needs of people living with FASD, supporting families and making sure children and young people have opportunities to thrive.
That work cannot belong to one organisation or service. It takes a community.
Working together across the Fitzroy Valley
This year's event was another great example of what is possible when organisations and community members work together.
MWRC extends a huge thank you to Nindilingarri Cultural Health Services, Gurama Yani U – Fitzroy Valley Men’s Shed, Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation, the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley, our local schools and the many other organisations and services that contributed to the day.
We also acknowledge the enormous amount of work that happens behind the scenes. Events like this are only possible because staff and volunteers across organisations give their time to planning, organising, setting up, supporting activities and making sure community members feel welcome.
Most importantly, thank you to the Fitzroy Valley community for turning up.
To the Elders, parents, families, children and young people who marched, listened, shared, learned and celebrated together: you are what made the day worthwhile.
Seeing so many generations walking together was a powerful reminder of why this work matters and of the strength that already exists within our community.
Strong babies. Strong families. Strong community. Together for understanding and inclusion.
- Marnin Admin
