These are the foundation of NAIDOC celebrations at Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Port Macquarie on August 23.

The annual gathering is organised by the CSU indigenous Student Centre and recognises the Birpai people as custodians of the lands on which the campus resides.

CSU director of external engagement Kate Wood-Foye said NAIDOC is a time to recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

"As a regional education leader our university plays a role in encouraging and uplifting that indigenous voice in our communities, encouraging all voices, stories and truths to be told," she said during the event.

"We should be encouraged by the CSU initiatives in place to support the indigenous voice, education and employment opportunities across Australia.

"While we have over 1100 current students, we must do more to ensure we continue to close the gap in education opportunities between Indigenous and non-indigenous Australians.

"The Indigenous voice of this country is over 65,000 years old. Languages that passed down lore, culture and knowledge for over millennia.

"They are precious to our nation."

The event included the NAIDOC awards ceremony, entertainment, cultural workshops and community stalls.

Academic awards were won by Alissa Paulson and Olivia Duncan. Participation awards were won by Richard Dacker, Shahna Fairley and Andrew Fair.

April Crutcher and Zane Sparke won the Community Awards. Garth Norris, Tanya Brown and Jodie Bellenger collected the Staff Awards.

CSU hosts programs such as Strong Moves, which encourages school students to attend university.

There is also an Indigenous Access Program, a five-day alternative entry program for school leavers or mature-aged students. The university also offers a graduate certificate in Indigenous Language, Culture and Heritage.

Events during the day were arranged by the indigenous student centre team, Kristie Daley and Jen Glover.

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