Campus News
National Reconciliation Week
During Week 6, Kurnai College acknowledge National Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June), a time for all Australians to reflect on our shared history with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, to celebrate culture, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
This year’s theme, "All In for reconciliation", calls on a call for all Australians to commit wholeheartedly to reconciliation every single day. At Kurnai College, we recognise the importance of learning from the past, listening to First Nations voices, and continuing to build a future grounded in understanding, equity and unity. Because reconciliation will not happen on its own, we must all be All In for reconciliation.
Reconciliation Week officially commenced celebrations with a special whole-school event at the Morwell Campus on Thursday, 28th of May.
Students and staff gathered for an assembly that highlighted the importance of reconciliation, respect and strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider Australian community.
The Deadlee Dancers opened the assembly, followed by Gunnai Kurnai student Kane Dalton-Hayes doing an Acknowledgement of Country, sharing his culture and speaking about the significance of reconciliation and the role everyone can play in building understanding and respect.
Students Destiny Marshall and Emily Liddy then addressed the school community, reflecting on the meaning of National Reconciliation Week and encouraging students to consider how they can contribute to a more inclusive and connected future.
Acting assistant principal Nicole Taylor acknowledged the College's ongoing commitment to reconciliation and highlighted the many ways Kurnai College continues to celebrate and embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives across the school.
A highlight of the assembly was a performance by the Deedle Dancers, who captivated the audience with their presentation of Naa Naa Nakindhere.
Following the assembly, local Elder Aunty Michelle Hood led a traditional Smoking Ceremony. Accompanied by the sounds of the didgeridoo, played by student Mishton Walsh, students respectfully passed through the cleansing smoke as they returned to the school's central area. The combination of the Smoking Ceremony and didgeridoo performance created a powerful cultural experience, symbolising healing, protection and connection to Country.
The celebrations continued throughout the day, with students participating in a range of reconciliation-themed classroom activities before coming together to enjoy a BBQ lunch.
The event provided a meaningful opportunity for the Kurnai College community to learn, reflect and celebrate the rich cultures, histories and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
