Arabic version: أليس سبرينغز تكرّم كومانيجاي ليتل بيبي
According to SBS News, Alice Springs will hold a day of remembrance, respect and community on Saturday, August 15, as family, loved ones and community gather to honour Kumanjayi Little Baby at her funeral service and the 2026 National NAIDOC Awards take place that evening.
NITV and SBS will cover the funeral service in Mparntwe, also known as Alice Springs. The family has invited media to cover the service. Tributes including toys, stuffed animals, eucalyptus leaves and candles have been placed for Kumanjayi Little Baby.
NITV will proceed with its awards coverage following consultation with the National NAIDOC Committee and the Granites, Rockman, White and Roy families. The awards will begin with a special acknowledgement to Kumanjayi Little Baby, and guests have been invited to wear something pink, described as her favourite colour. Her family has supported the event continuing as planned.
Celebrating the theme “50 Years of Deadly”, the awards will recognise ten individuals and groups for achievements across art, sport, language, education, employment, training, leadership, community empowerment, and preserving Culture and Country. NITV said the day would carry sadness, reflection and grief alongside pride, unity and recognition.
The awards will stream live on NITV’s YouTube and Facebook pages and SBS On Demand from 7:00pm ACST and 7:30pm AEST on August 15. Blak Carpet coverage will stream on NITV’s TikTok from 5:30pm ACST and 6:00pm AEST. The ceremony is also scheduled to broadcast on NITV on Tuesday, September 1, at 10:35pm AEST.
