WTC & Smoke Ceremony 2025

On Monday, February 24, 2025, University High School was honoured to host a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony led by Elder Perry Wandin, a respected Wurundjeri man from Healesville. This significant event was attended by staff, student leaders, and Indigenous-identifying students, marking a meaningful start to the academic year.

Elder Wandin's ceremony provided an opportunity for the school community to reflect on the rich cultural heritage of the Wurundjeri people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which our school stands. The smoking ceremony, a traditional practice, is believed to cleanse the area of negative energies and promote the well-being of all who enter.

The event was a poignant reminder of the importance of acknowledging and respecting the traditional owners of the land, fostering a deeper understanding and connection to the history and culture of the Wurundjeri people.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Elder Perry Wandin for sharing his knowledge and traditions with us, and to all attendees for their participation in this meaningful ceremony. This event underscores our commitment to reconciliation and the celebration of Indigenous cultures within our school community.

We are excited to continue this journey of learning and growth in this space and thank all of those who attended.

Community Engagement Liaison Officer: Dexter Kernich-Drew

Student services and Wellbeing