Koorie Education

This term, our First Nations students attended Bunjil Place for a Close the Gap Day with other local schools. Students began their day with a conversation with Dr. Justin Trounsen, wellbeing and community programs psychologist at Richmond Football club. Justin shared his story of growth from feeling ‘dumb’ in high school to returning to schooling later in life to study psychology. He spoke about his ‘inner critic’ and how to overcome that voice that tells you that you aren’t good enough. 

Students then participated in a collaborative art project with Wurundjeri and Dja Dja Wurrung artist Sam and learnt about using kangaroo skins in traditional medicine with Monash University Hand on Health. Students were excited to be gifted a hat, t-shirt and stethoscope. 

After breaking for lunch, students had a further two workshops. The first workshop had students moving around playing competitive games. The second workshop was run by the Korin Gamadji Institute at Richmond Football Club and involved students reflecting on their culture and how we can improve our wellbeing. Students were asked to consider how schools can improve the lives of First Nations students. 

Overall, it was a wonderful day filled with community and culture. Thank you to every student who came along and supported each other. 

Stephanie Swain

Murrung Lead