MARRUNG UPDATE

Our boys have been eagerly attending rehearsals as they prepare for upcoming didgeridoo lessons with Sean Candy. They are showing a real sense of pride as they gather, practise and support one another. Learning the didgeridoo is more than music, it builds focus, teamwork and respect for culture.

As part of our Koorie Curriculum Cluster work, Simone Thomson (https://simonethomsonart.com/) is also creating QR codes to sit alongside the artwork stories displayed around our school. These codes will allow visitors to use their phones to hear the stories connected to each piece. It is a powerful way to combine storytelling and digital technology, ensuring culture is shared in a contemporary and accessible way. 

These preparations are leading towards our Koorie Curriculum Cluster Showcase on 21st May at Djirri Djirri School. We look forward to sharing our learning with the wider community and celebrating the strong connections between culture, curriculum, student voice and agency. Students in M03 are happy to be listening to practice while they work. 

It has been also Biderap season – Coming into Iuk (Eel) Season, Wurundjeri calendar.

Season Outline: Biderap (Dry Season) 

Timeframe: January–February

 Conditions: Hot, dry weather with low rainfall, high temperatures and drying landscapes. Key Environmental Indicators: 

Insects: Female Common Brown butterflies (Heteronympha merope) are active, flying between grasses and flowering Bursaria spinosa. 

Flora: Tussock grass (bowat) is long, dry and brown. Silver Wattle (Acacia dealbata) drops its seeds. 

Fauna: Lizards and snakes are active, sunning themselves near creek banks. Wombats are active at night. 

Astronomy: The Southern Cross constellation is high in the south at sunrise. 

Cultural Significance & Practices: 

Land Management:This was traditionally a time for controlled burning to reduce dense, dry scrub. 

Water Access: In dry conditions, water sources such as the Birrarung (Yarra River) are vital. 

Resource Gathering: Dry tussock grass is gathered for weaving.

As Victoria continues its Treaty journey, our school is choosing to go All In, committing every day to reconciliation through learning, respect and action. In small, steady ways, we are building understanding and partnership, not just for a week, but as part of who we are.