Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander News
Term 2, Week 4 2024
MCC’s Cultural Message stick
Warraymaylaya: Year 10-12 Culture & Career Pathways Retreat 2024
Students and staff from St. Philomena’s School (Moree), Holy Trinity School (Inverell), St. Mary’s College (Gunnedah), McCarthy Catholic College (Tamworth), and O’Connor Catholic College (Armidale) embarked on an unforgettable journey as participants in the 2024 Warraymaylaya Year 10-12 Culture & Career Pathways Retreat in Collaroy, Sydney.
What is Warraymaylaya?
The word "Warraymaylaya" means “Stand Together.”
Warraymaylaya Warriors Boot Camps
Each morning, students and staff braved the weather to join the Warraymaylaya Warriors for a beach boot camp.
Evening Sessions
Students participated in Year 11 & 12 study sessions and Year 10 Guwaali (talk) sessions, which included engaging and fun games.
Day 1: NSW Police Marine Area Command
Students and staff were given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel to the NSW Police Marine Area Command on two police vessels. They were welcomed by Deputy Commissioner Pisanos, Superintendent McNulty, Senior Constable Kye, and ACLOs Tighe and Dickson. The group explored the state-of-the-art Technical Operations room, diving unit, and specialized boating vessels. It was an extraordinary experience, with some students even getting a chance to drive the boats. The staff were so impressed that they began considering a career change!
Day 2:
UNSW Nura Gili Centre for Indigenous Programs
Students visited the UNSW Nura Gili Centre for Indigenous Programs, learning about various pathway and scholarship programs available for future Indigenous students. They heard from current students about their experiences and explored the support services offered by the university. Witnessing the first Graduation Procession of 2024 inspired many to consider further studies.
South Sydney Centre of Excellence - South Cares Program & Rabbitohs Wellbeing Education Program
In a workshop run by the South Cares Program, students explored the Barranggirra Program, focusing on career aspirations and goal setting. NRL stars Alex Johnston, Latrell Mitchell, and Cody Walker made a surprise visit, delivering inspirational messages about resilience and striving for greatness. The visit was a highlight, especially for Rabbitohs supporters!
Day 3:
Year 10 Tribal Warrior Cultural Immersion Cruise
Year 10 students enjoyed a cultural cruise on the Tribal Warrior, learning about the Gadigal people through songs, stories, and dances. The group had
Year 11 & 12 Visits
Senior students visited St. Mary’s Cathedral, the War Memorial, and Yininmadyemi, gaining a deeper understanding of their cultural heritage.
Burrawa Bridge Climb
Year 11 & 12 students from McCarthy, O’Connor, and St. Mary’s Catholic Colleges, along with Year 10 students from St. Philomena’s and Holy Trinity Schools, bravely completed the Burrawa Cultural Bridge Climb. They learned about the cultural history of the Gadigal people and stories of Bennelong, Barangaroo, Patyegarang, and William Dawes.
Standing Together
The word "Warraymaylaya" means “Stand Together,” and that’s exactly what our senior students did. Through goal setting, resilience, and mutual support, they overcame their fears and set their sights on bright futures, proudly embracing their identity as young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Armidale Diocese.
A massive thank you Mrs Tighe and Armidale Diocese for organising and providing this opportunity available to students and to all the staff for leading and encouraging our students throughout the week, helping them reflect, respect, and set far horizons for a hope-filled future.
Reconciliation Week - Week 5 27 May to 3 June - This year, the theme is Now, More then ever.’ is a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will —and must —continue. McCarthy community will be engaging in activities throughout the week.
'Ngaar Wirribiiyaan' Girls Cultural Program - Empowering Strong Young Women
We're thrilled to have contiune the 'Ngaar Wirribiiyaan' Girls Cultural Program, with Gomeroi Education & Training Mentor Krystal Lamb.
Spotlight on Success
We invite you to celebrate the achievements of our MCC Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander students! If you have noteworthy accomplishments to share, please reach out to Lisa at lsmith11@arm.catholic.edu.au. We are enthusiastic about highlighting the successes of our students and fostering a culture of recognition and pride.
