Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander News
2023 Transport NSW Aboriginal HSC Scholarship Program
Congratulations to Ethan Ross & Grace Shanley who were successful participant for the 2023 Transport NSW Aboriginal HSC Scholarship Program. Following last year's successful participant Seb Lawler.
There were a high caliber of applications this year and the panel were very impressed with the depth, maturity, and aspirations. Transport for NSW has partnered with NSW Aboriginal Land Council to Auspice the scholarship funds.
Some great benefits that Ethan & Grace will receive as a HSC scholar:
• Scholarship funds to be utilized for approved purchases to support your studies.
• Regular support from a Transport for NSW mentor for the duration of your HSC.
• Assistance from our Aboriginal Employment team to learn about and apply for entry level programs, apprenticeship, and traineeships at the completion of your HSC Studies.
Again, congratulations Ethan and Grace.
Senior Yarn Up
Offered to students to participate on a weekly basis every Wednesday during lunch and period 5.
Junior Yarn Up & Opportunity Hub Visits
Jolene Faint and Matthew Knean have been visiting and getting to know our students each Friday during period 2, on a rotation system. Next term, we will continue to see the Opportunity Hub next term to build a stronger connection.
Warraymalaya Career & Cultural Retreat Yr 10 -12 at The Retreat, Port Stephens.
The Retreat gives students a chance to be immersed in Cultural & Spirituality, as well networking with other students/staff across the Diocese whilst looking at a variety of Careers Pathways. During term 2, 40 students attended the Year 10-12 Warrayamaylaya Cultural and Career Pathway Retreat at Port Stephens/ Newcastle area.
The Retreat focused on this year's Reconciliation theme: "Be a voice for generations" highlights includes Wollotuka Institute at Newcastle University, Newcastle Knights Centre of Excellence and meeting NRL stars Kaylan Ponga, Jackson Hastings and NRLW Newcastle Knights Coach Ron Griffiths, Newcastle Knights NRLW player Abigail Roache, Flight World Navajo First Nation Pilot Uncle John who shared his story in the Air Force and Tomaree National Parks to name a few.
Careers On Country
Careers on Country is a careers expo specifically tailored for Aboriginal students, giving opportunities to access careers guidance and engage with key representatives within the employment and higher education sectors. This event is hosted by our Local Opportunity Hub and held at Trelawney Station”, Somerton. Careers on Country.Students were able to find out about programs and pathways available for employment and future study.
Gomeroi Culture Academy 2023
Congratulations to Isla Lett, Indi Brazier, Byren Waterhouse and Max Cloake for being officially welcomed into the Gomeroi Culture Academy (GCA) Program for 2023. GCA is a culturally focused leadership experience supporting young people living in Tamworth. The unique program is designed and led by Local Aboriginal members to support and inspire a generation of culturally strong leaders within our community.
Shared highlights
In May, Jayla Suey along with some other girls were invited to attend Rugby AU Building for another meeting. After the meeting, the girls were lucky enough to meet the Wallaroos and Fijiana Women's teams before they went head to head on the field, before continuing on for a tour of the stadium, the gym and to check out how everything works behind the scenes before a game.
During the meeting Jayla was lucky enough to be selected as one of the flag bearers for the game. Proudly holding the Aboriginal flag, and grinning with pride during the Welcome To Country.
Afterwards she was then invited to stay on and watch the men's Waratahs v Fijian Dura teams to complete the double header for the night.NSW Training Awards in Tamworth McCarthy Catholic College winner from last year, Kelly O’Gorman was invited to address the audience as part of the awards ceremony.
In-Class Cultural Perspective
Lisa, Jekoya and Kelly have been collaborating with Year 7 and 8 English, Technology and PE teachers to implement cultural perspectives within their programs. They have been team-teaching in classes and have been enjoying sharing their own stories and journeys.
National Reconciliation Week
This National Reconciliation Week, we acknowledge and pay respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of the Gomeroi Nations. The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2023 is Be a Voice for Generations.For years generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders have joined other Australians for meaningful change. At McCarthy Catholic College we gather together to show our sign of respect and recognise our voices and continue to stand up, use our voice and be a leader for the future generations. Together we can move forward in Reconciliation.
Media officer- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Committee - Charlotte Porter
Confirmation of NAIDOC Assembly
The date for the NAIDOC Assembly has been confirmed: Week 1, Term 3 Thursday 20th July. Please see attached Invitation.
