Ceremonies are part of a broader program, which celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

Rodney Carter is CEO of the Dja Dja Wurrung Group, who along with chairperson Trent Nelson will be involved with the ceremonies.

Read more: ‘What’s On’: NAIDOC Week in Bendigo

The event is a chance for Dja Dja Wurrung people to be proud of their identity, and culture, Mr Carter said.

“It’s about an opportunity for the Dja Dja Wurrung people to be proud of who they are to pay respect, referring to previous ancestors today and generations to come,” he said.

“The smoking ceremony is a form of ritual activity that first people conduct amongst themselves and also with other groups.

“What we do that is we apply that to a public activity and engagement as a way of reinforcing continuance of culture, but allowing others to participate.”

The Smoking Ceremony symbolises a cleaning of the spirit.

Three significant vegetation types will be used in today’s ceremony: gum, wattle and cherry ballart.

Attendees at the event will be invited to participate, as a symbol of good intent.

“It’s turning your thinking to rid yourself of anything that’s negative to take on a more positive approach,” Mr Carter said.

The events are a celebration of Indigenous culture, in fitting with NAIDOC week more broadly.

Mr Carter is keen to see community members come along, to join in the celebrations.

“It just adds to that broader conversation about people sharing,” Mr Carter said.

“It provides a degree of reasonably relaxed opportunity to get together, and for those who are more in tune with what’s going on, it’s a form of celebration.”