Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander News

At O’Connor we hold high hopes and expectations for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students. For students to work towards these lofty goals they need to look for and engage in a wide range of opportunities. Over the past week a number have taken up such opportunities and made positive contributions to our school community and their own personal growth and development.

Pacey Noakes in Year 12 came to O’Connor in Year 7 super keen to learn about culture, in particular he wanted to learn to play the didgeridoo. Through grabbing any opportunities that came his way and relentless hard work, over the years he did so. These days Pacey regularly plays the didg at school at events ranging from PRISE Sessions, Harmony Day, and NAIDOC Week. Recently Pacey very proudly took up the opportunity to play during O’Connor’s Anzac Commemoration Liturgy. The liturgy was opened to the haunting sound of Pacey’s didgeridoo and then he also accompanied the laying of wreaths and other artefacts. It is important to note, that playing the didgeridoo has not come easy to Pacey and he has worked hard for a number of years to be where he is today, a proud and strong Aboriginal young man who generously shares his culture with his school community and others. Well done Pacey, we are very proud of you.

A further example of OCC Aboriginal students taking up positive opportunities to learn and grow involves our students choosing to attend an Employment Workshop presented by Acadium on Monday of Week 2. Students from Years 9 to 12 were invited to attend and we ended up with a room full of students eager to listen and learn. The wonderful facilitators from Acadium took students through a half day presentation that covered topics including, establishing a budget, identifying personal interests and strengths and purchasing a vehicle. The workshop was well received by students and everyone walked away with a greater understanding of themselves and pathways that might suit them best. Again, the benefits gained from this workshop were only enjoyed when students made the effort to attend and engage with enthusiasm.

Mr James Russell

ATSI Focus Teacher