Year 9 Djeembana

Royal Botanical Gardens ~ Connecting to Country

This program aimed to provide students with a greater understanding and respect for local Aboriginal culture and their sustainable land practices. Through a range of activities, students learned about the Indigenous Australians' deep connection to Country, the significance and uses of local plants, and the traditional tools and technologies designed and made by Aboriginal Australians.

During the excursion, students were taken on a guided tour of the Melbourne Gardens to discover the indigenous plants and their uses. They learned how Aboriginal people cared for the plants and the land, and how they used plants for food, tools, shelter, and medicine. By examining the use of plants in Aboriginal culture, students gained an insight into the sustainable land practices used by Indigenous Australians.

A key focus of the Djeembana Program is to develop students' understanding and respect for First Nations People and their connection to the Country, the use of plants for food, tools, shelter, and medicine, and exploring connections to the land and our sense of belonging.

Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance

The Shrine of Remembrance is a significant landmark in Victoria, built almost ninety years ago to honor and remember the sacrifices made by citizens during times of international conflict. It serves as a testament to the resilience, courage, and determination of those who fought for their country and made sacrifices for the greater good.

Today, the Shrine continues to be a place where students can learn about wartime history, hear about the stories of diverse people from all walks of life, and experience the living importance of remembrance in Australian communities. The Shrine provides an immersive and interactive learning experience that encourages students to reflect on the lessons of history and the importance of preserving the memory of those who have served.

Visiting the Shrine was a powerful and moving experience for our students, allowing them to connect with the past and gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by previous generations.

It is important to note that the Shrine of Remembrance also acknowledges and honors the service and sacrifices of Indigenous Australians in times of conflict. Indigenous Australians have a long history of serving in the Australian military, dating back to the Boer War in the late 19th century. Despite facing discrimination and prejudice at home, Indigenous Australians have shown incredible courage and resilience on the battlefield.