First Nations
On Thursday July 31st, our Koorie students went to Swinburne University. We were warmly greeted by the team from the Moondani Toombadool Centre; a dedicated space at Swinburne that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The day began with a creative and hands on workshop, hosted by a well known company; Gammin Threads, where students designed and printed their own t-shirts and tote bags; a definite highlight for everyone. After lunch, students took part in workshops exploring future careers pathways. The aviation centre was a standout, followed by engaging sessions in the biomedical lab, dietitian and nutrition kitchen and exercise and sports exercise area.
Overall, the day was a fantastic experience. Harper B. (Year 7) summed it up perfectly: "It was exciting and eventful. We had so much to do, learnt a lot and met a lot of new people."
We're already looking forward to our cultural day next month!
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day is our national day dedicated to celebrating our children and has been held every year on 4th August since 1988. Children’s Day is an initiative of SNAICC – National Voice for our Children with a theme each year and a national launch event. The 2025 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day theme Little Footsteps, Big Future honours the journeys our children take as they grow, each step guided by culture, community and connection to Country. Children’s Day is important as a national celebration for our children to give them confidence and advocate for systemic changes to be made. The majority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are thriving and growing up strong in their cultures with support from family and community. However, there is a significant number of children that continue to face ongoing challenges that stem from colonisation and its effects. This includes discrimination, poverty, systemic removal, intergenerational trauma, dislocation from land and culture and community disempowerment. To achieve equality, we must approach these challenges through a holistic approach that considers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children’s wellbeing, safety and development. This is why we celebrate National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day. See below the posters Harper B. and Thomas K. made to celebrate National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day.
Key significant dates on the calendar:
- 6 September – Indigenous Literacy Day
Taylah Moschetti - First Nations Advocate at Lilydale Heights College.
Email her at taylah.moschetti@education.vic.gov.au if you ever need a yarn.
Until next newsletter update!