As many as 800 people marched down Summer Street before the official opening and welcome to country at Orange North Court.

“It’s fantastic,” NAIDOC Week committee chairperson Jason French said of the turnout.

“We’ve had close to 600 kids register through the schools and just looking around we’ve got another 100 or 200 community members.

“That’s a great number.”

This year’s NAIDOC Week has the theme “Unsung Heroes” and recognises the quiet achievers in Orange’s indigenous community.

Twelve students from the city’s schools were presented with academic and sporting achievement awards.

Indigenous students completing year 12 were also recognised.

Year five student Jay French, who led the march for Orange Christian School, said he appreciated the significance of NAIDOC Week.

“It’s to celebrate our culture,” he said.

“And to have fun.”

l Check out Jude Keogh’s slideshow - go to centralwesterndaily.com.au and follow the prompts.