Yaama Parents/Carers/Families,

My name is Jared Burns, I’m the new Aboriginal Education Officer at Catherine McAuley.

I am a proud Gamiliaroi/Ngiyampaa man born and raised in Wiradjuri Country in Cowra.

I started learning dance when I was 8 years old and through the years I have been fortunate enough to travel across the state and beyond learning my culture from Uncles and other cultural teachers. I have also been able to share this knowledge with communities all over through dance and cultural deliveries/ceremonies. I also enjoy sports and physical activity and have competed in Rugby League/Union, Boxing, Touch Football and more.

Sharing culture is my passion, and I hope to continue this by sharing my knowledge to the children and families of Catherine McAuley. The students will be able to participate in cultural activities at the school such as dance, artefact making, art, smoking ceremonies and more. We will also take part in community events such as NAIROC and other community-based programs offered in Orange and surrounds.

If you have any questions or concerns, or just want to have a yarn, feel free to contact the school and ask for me.

Mandang Guwu. Guwayu! (Thank you. Later!)

Jared Burns (Aboriginal Education Officer)

Year 5