Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander News
MCC’s Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Team Update
As we come to the end of Term 3, there are exciting events, achievements, and programs to share within our McCarthy Catholic College community."
Reminder - Week 1, Term 4 - Warraymaylaya Maal Dhuw Retreat
The 'Warraymaylaya Maal Dhuw' retreat, exclusively designed for Year 8 - 9 students, is just around the corner. This event aims to empower and support our Indigenous youth. Please remind your children to complete and submit the required paperwork as they prepare to depart on Monday, 9th Week 1, Term 4.
PULiiMA Indigenous Languages and Technology Conference
In Week 6, a dedicated group of staff members, including Lisa, had the privilege of attending the PULiiMA Indigenous Languages and Technology Conference. This biennial event brings together individuals from across Australia and beyond to explore groundbreaking projects and innovative tools for community-based Indigenous language preservation. It's an opportunity to connect with like-minded enthusiasts who share the goal of preserving and celebrating our native languages.
St Ed’s visit
St. Edwards, invited our MCC Cultural dancer to join their NAIDOC event, which celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.We extend our heartfelt thanks to St. Edwards for their invitation and recognition of our dancer's talent.
Our dancer wowed the audience with a captivating performance, symbolising unity and respect for our culture and between our schools.
This collaboration underscores the importance of embracing diversity and fostering cultural understanding within our community.
We anticipate more cultural exchanges and partnerships that will enrich our students' experiences and promote cultural appreciation.
Opportunity Hub
Jolene Faint, Matthew Knean & Latrell have been actively fostering respect and community connections throughout the term. Their dedication to cultural awareness and appreciation is commendable.``
'Ngaar Wirribiiyaan' Girls Cultural Program - Empowering Strong Young Women
In Term 4, we are thrilled to introduce the 'Ngaar Wirribiiyaan' Girls Cultural Program, an initiative affiliated with Gomeroi Education and Training, in addition to connecting with the Opportunity Hub.
This program is dedicated to nurturing and guiding our strong young women on their cultural, academic, and career journeys.
The 'Ngaar Wirribiiyaan' Girls Cultural Program aims to empower young women to embrace their cultural identity, provide mentorship for academic and personal growth, and foster community and mutual support among participants.
The program extends invitations to Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander girls from Year 7 to Year 12. A limited number of spots are available, and an email with more information and Compass event permission will be sent to all Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander female students and their families. We strongly encourage our young ladies to participate, if possible.
Spotlight on success
On Sunday 27 September, Grace Shanley coached the Baawaas (Sisters), 10–12-year netball side at the Tamworth Koori Netball Knockout. Grace’s team played 6 rounds and went through undefeated.
Sponsor, Gomeroi Education and Training would like to commend Grace on her organisation and team management skills. Grace represented herself and her community to a high standard. Congratulations Grace! - Keli Allan
Jayla Suey's year in rugby has been nothing short of amazing. She kicked off the year with an Ed Start Junior Waratahs Scholarship in Rugby Union and joined the NSW Rugby Girls Leadership Group, representing girls in rugby across NSW. In this role, she attended conferences and meetings, advocating for girls in the sport and brainstorming ideas for its growth.
Her leadership journey included stadium tours, meetings with the Australian Wallaroos and Fijian Women's teams, and proudly carrying the Indigenous Flag at a game's opening ceremony. In January 2024, Jayla secured a spot at the prestigious International Rugby Academy Australia (IRAA), where she'll be coached by world-renowned experts from Japan, the USA, New Zealand, and Australia.
Jayla's latest milestone is her selection to trial for the 2024 NRL Lisa Fiaola Cup with the South Sydney Rabbitohs. The trials begin on September 20th in Sydney.
We wish Jayla the best of luck in her trials and eagerly anticipate her promising future in either code.
Year 12 HSC Exams
We wish our Year 12 students the best of luck as they prepare for their HSC exams. Your hard work will undoubtedly pay off!
Year 11 Student Leaders
Congratulations to our new Year 11 student leaders, who are stepping up into their new leadership roles.
Sharing - Spotlight on Success
If you have any achievements or successes from our MCC Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander students that you would like to acknowledge, please don't hesitate to email Lisa at lsmith11@arm.catholic.edu.au. We love celebrating the accomplishments of our students!
As we move forward, let us continue to celebrate and honor the rich heritage of our Indigenous communities. Together, we stand strong, embracing our traditions and forging a brighter future for all.
Yaluu
Lisa Smith
Aboriginal Education Assistant