Reconciliation Week

Across the Principal's Desk

This edition of our Newsletter has been published at the beginning of Reconciliation Week, which occurs on the same dates each year; May 27 – June 3, regardless of the particular day of the week. The dates commemorate two significant events in the move towards reconciliation. May 27th marks the date of the successful referendum in 1967, with over 90% voting yes to changing the constitution in order to recognise the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Another key event in reconciliation was the Mabo High Court decision, which established the legal recognition of Native Title.

At Beaufort Secondary College, we appreciate the world’s oldest living culture and we acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we have the privilege of living and learning, the Wadawurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We recognise and value the enduring connection that Wadawurrung People have with the land, its waterways and the sky. 

As stated by Reconciliation Australia, The National Reconciliation Week 2025 theme, Bridging Now to Next, reflects the ongoing connection between past, present and future.

Bridging Now to Next calls on all Australians to step forward together, to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons guide us.

It is important for us to be open to learning about the true history of this country. As uncomfortable as it might be, if we can acknowledge and recognise our shared history, then we can make positive steps towards reconciliation. At Beaufort Secondary College we are committed to building a brighter tomorrow together.

Draw, Paint, Sculpt Dreamtime Stories

In recognition of Reconciliation Week, our Draw, Paint, Sculpt class has been very busy researching the traditional tribal areas and Dreamtime stories of our First Nations people. Students were required to select an Australian animal and research the Dreamtime story behind it, before creating a ceramic sculpture of their chosen animal. Their fantastic artworks and the stories behind their animals are now on display at the General Office.