THE importance, resilience and richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages is the focus of national celebrations marking NAIDOC week this year.

Local indigenous artist Lloyd Saunders celebrates his language through song.

Lloyd's latest album, Home is Where The Heart Is, is derived from the lyrics of a track called Yumba.

"In my Gungarri language, 'Yumba' means home,” he said.

"My grandma was born in Mitchell and a lot of my family is from there so it ties to the Yumba in Mitchell and it means that no matter where you are, you can make it your home,” he said.

The Yumba is a museum in Mitchell with a cottage and a place for families to connect with their roots.

Lloyd, 31, who was born and raised in Roma but now resides in Mackay, returned to his hometown to perform at NAIDOC community day.

"My grandma bought me my first guitar when I was eight years old from a second-hand shop here in Roma,” he recalled fondly.

Mandandanji and Kangoulu man Lane Brookes said he was honoured to be a part of the NAIDOC community day celebrations by performing a traditional welcome to country and dance.

"I'm glad to be a part of breaking down barriers in the community and bringing non-indigenous people into our world and showcasing our magnificent culture.

"A lot of it was lost so this is about retaining what we can and making sure that doesn't get lost with the rest of it,” he said.

NAIDOC committee member Rodney Landers said community day was an opportunity for service providers to sit back, relax and celebrate culture.

"The Roma Men's shed cooked the barbecue which was sponsored by Santos and we've had a week of celebrating history, traditions and culture,” he said.

"It wouldn't be possible without everyone who put their hand up to help and support in some way.”