KOORIE CULTURE DAY
🌿 Tuesday 16 September – Yarra Ranges Tech School 🌿
The following article was written by Yarra Ranges Tech School
Yesterday, we witnessed something truly special. Over 100 Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students from across the Yarra Ranges came together for our inaugural Koorie Culture Day - a celebration of culture, connection, and community, led by young people themselves.
Students shared stories, created together, and built new friendships through a program designed by our Koorie Student Leadership Group.
Across the day, they experienced:
- A Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony
- Cultural dance workshops with the Djirri Djirri Dance Group
- Damper making with Indigenous plants
- Clap stick decorating
- Jewellery making and temporary tattoos
What made the day so meaningful was not just the activities, but the way students from different schools came together to learn from one another, connect with culture, and walk forward with shared pride. It showed the strength of student voice and youth leadership, and the role our young people play in shaping a more connected community.
At the heart of the day was the Koorie Student Leadership Group — inspiring young people from Lilydale High School, Mooroolbark College, Upper Yarra Secondary College, and Yarra Hills Secondary College. Their leadership, creativity, and commitment brought their vision to life, ensuring culture was celebrated and shared.
We extend our gratitude to:
- Aunty Lou Baulch and Aunty Turpie-Johnstone for joining us and sharing the special day
- Yarra Ranges Youth and the East Dhelk Dja Action Group for their funding support
- Lilydale Heights College Valleydale Café for catering with a beautiful Indigenous-inspired menu
- Stacie from Djirri Djirri for a powerful Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, and Kiera and Hailey for sharing their culture and dance workshop
- The Koorie Workforce and all YRTS facilitators for their generosity and guidance
- Brooke (Lilydale and Yarra Valley District Education Plan) and Sally (YRTS) for their tireless work supporting the Leadership Group behind the scenes
To every student who participated with respect and enthusiasm - thank you. You showed us what is possible when young people lead, when culture is celebrated, and when we take the time to listen and learn together.
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We were proud to have 12 Lilydale High School students from Years 8 to 11 participate in the Koorie Culture Day, joining their peers from across the region. A special thank you to Ms Hovanjec who attended the day with our students.
