Student Experiences
Hands-On Didgeridoo with Sean Candy
A Day of Culture, Music, and Connection
On 28 July, our students experienced an unforgettable day with Palawa man Sean Candy, a didgeridoo player with over 30 years of experience.
Sean introduced the didgeridoo, demonstrating how it’s made and played, before guiding students through rhythms using clapsticks, Aboriginal dance steps, and interactive music-making. Students explored traditional artefacts like animal skins and boomerangs, learning the stories and cultural knowledge behind each item.
The room was filled with laughter, curiosity, and connection as students experimented with sound, moved to the beat, and asked thoughtful questions about First Nations culture.
The day ended with a calming didgeridoo meditation, a peaceful moment after all the excitement. This hands-on, heart-filled experience deepened students’ understanding of culture and left them feeling proud to be part of something truly special.
Djirri Djirri Dancers – Learning Together Through Culture - Prep Students
On 31 July and 13 August, we welcomed the Djirri Djirri dancers, the only Wurundjeri female dance group and Traditional Custodians of Narrm (Melbourne) and surrounding areas. Their visit was part of our school’s ongoing commitment to the Marrung Vision, creating a positive and inclusive learning space for students, staff, families, and community.
We were joined by female community members, parents, and carers, making it a shared and meaningful experience.
The dancers brought stories, language, and traditions that honour Liwik (Ancestors), Kerr-up-non (Family), Biik (Country), and the deep connections to animals, culture, and kinship. Students learned that “Djirri Djirri” means Willy Wagtail in Woiwurrung, the Spirit’s Messenger, said to have gifted the people with dance.
Our Preps to invited middle and senior students, everyone took part in the Kirrip (Friend) dance program. We began with an Acknowledgement of Country, explored cultural attire, heard Creation Narratives, and participated in five dances filled with movement, joy, and connection. Older students supported younger ones, ensuring everyone felt confident and included.
This wasn’t just a special visit, it marks the beginning of something we hope to embed regularly into our curriculum. Experiences like this help us learn about, from, and most importantly with First Nations peoples, as a whole-school community.
They bring us closer to the Marrung Vision, where strong Koorie identity, culture, and pride are woven into everyday learning for both staff and students.