Ngarrama returned to King Edward Park on 25 January, drawing an estimated 4,000 attendees for an evening of cultural celebration and reflection.

Held on the eve of Invasion Day, the event provided a space for truth-telling, performances and open dialogue, offering a community-driven approach to understanding Indigenous history and perspectives.

Proud Bandjin woman and Wollotuka Institute acting deputy head, Loren Collyer, reflected on the event's growth since its inception.

"We started this event with the hope that a few hundred people would come, and in our first year, we saw 3,000," she said.

"Now, to see 4,000 people attend, it really speaks to the community's willingness to listen and engage."

She highlighted the importance of holding the event on 25 January.

"It's such a difficult day for mob," she said.

"A lot of people still don't fully understand why.

"Ngarrama gives us a chance to share our stories in a way that encourages real listening and reflection."

The night featured traditional dance, music, and storytelling, with performances from groups including Mari Mayi, Midnight Dreaming, Winanga-y Dreaming, and Minimbah Dancers.

The newly introduced Sea Creatures Lantern Parade, led by Curious Legends Illuminated Puppets, was a highlight for children.

Ngarrama Emcee and Worimi man, Jodan Perry, said the event created a space where people could connect in an inclusive and welcoming environment.

"There was such a good vibe," he said.

"It was a family-friendly, safe space where people wanted to be there, wanted to listen, and wanted to learn."

He described the event as a significant addition to Newcastle's cultural calendar.

"When I was growing up here, we had the NAIDOC march, but now we have this annual event that has become a powerful and important gathering for the community," he said.

Ms Collyer noted the significance of seeing children from all backgrounds learning traditional dances alongside Aboriginal kids.

"It's real reconciliation. It's not forced—it's just kids connecting and enjoying it," she said.

"That's where real learning happens.

"You wonder how committed people are to hearing our stories, but when you see this many people show up, it's healing."

With Ngarrama now firmly established as an annual event, Mr Perry said the focus would be on making it even bigger in the years to come.

"We're not going anywhere," he said.

"The support from the community keeps growing, and we'll keep building on that."

Ngarrama continues to provide a space for both Aboriginal and non-Indigenous people to reflect, learn, and connect ahead of Invasion Day, strengthening understanding through culture and storytelling.