Mind you, it is a central Victorian winter - and that's what we know to expect. Still, most of us still find it a bit of a shock to step outside into this weather.

It's particularly hard for us in our house this weekend, after a holiday to where the air was warm and the days were long, last week.

As much as I love central Victoria and being part of a team that brings you the daily news, there is nothing better than escaping with my teenage children and just being together, taking time off the treadmill that is daily life.

We had some beautiful times together, but what I loved most was learning more about my children in a new environment - and watching how each experienced a new culture.

Conversations about a country's history and its people are so important.

So, it was nice to return while many were involved in NAIDOC week activities. It's such an important week in our calendar.

One of my Australian Community Media colleagues penned this editorial this week:

NAIDOC Week gives our community an opportunity to appreciate Indigenous history, culture, achievements and their valuable contribution to our country. This year's theme for NAIDOC Week is "Voice, Treaty, Truth".

Australia still does not have a treaty or treaties, or some other kind of formal acknowledgement or arrangement, with its Indigenous people.

In fact, we are one of the few countries in the world which does not have one.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people believe sovereignty was taken away from them and that remains a continuing source of dispute.

However, enduring and potent agreement won't be reached unless Australians have a mutual, honest understanding of the reasons for the dispute, of white and black shared history, and how we got to where we are today.

Indigenous people want the true story of colonisation to be told, and for the broader community to hear it and acknowledge it.

Owning the history is necessary before we can achieve true reconciliation.

There needs to be heartfelt healing for both sides.

The majority of the failings of our nation towards our first Australians happened many, many years ago, and modern Indigenous people aren't seeking to point the finger of blame.

They simply want acknowledgment and a genuine commitment to move forward together as a united nation.

We can't move forward in life if we don't heed the lessons of our past.

History belongs to all of us and we must own it. If we do that, then we can move forward together.'

It's worth reflecting on - and below, you will find some of the stories we published about NAIDOC Week this week, along with a few others.

Meanwhile, we've got another great giveaway for our subscribers, to thank you for your loyalty to the Bendigo Addy.

Most of you would be familiar with Roald Dahl's delicious tale, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which is now showing in Melbourne.

It's said to be a 'delectable treat featuring songs from the original film, including Pure Imagination, The Candy Man and I've Got a Golden Ticket, alongside a brand new, toe-tapping and ear-tickling new score'.

Here's what the promoters have to say: Willy Wonka is opening his marvellous and mysterious chocolate factory to a lucky few. That includes Charlie Bucket, whose bland life is about to sweeten with colour and confection beyond his wildest dreams. He and four other golden ticket winners will embark on a mesmerising joyride through a world of pure imagination.

Now's your chance to experience the wonders of Wonka! Get ready for the Oompa-Loompas, incredible inventions, costumes and sets and more, more, more at this everlasting showstopper.

The Bendigo Advertiser has 3 A reserve double passes to the show, valued at $279.80 each, to give away.

The show is at 1pm on August 11, at Her Majesty's Theatre, 219 Exhibition St, Melbourne

To enter, simply click here - and good luck!

I'm looking forward to catching up with some of you for morning tea, tomorrow - and stay tuned for news of another exciting subscriber-only event in the coming weeks. It's going to be fun!

Have a great Sunday,

Nicole