First Nations

Day 6 of 6 at Yarra Ranges Tech School – Showcase Day

On 11th June, our First Nations students proudly presented their projects to parents, peers, Principals and representatives from the Department of Education.   Four deadly students, Gem K.D., Ruby C., Jackson W. and Pearl G., designed and created four new signs for our D-Wing building, showcasing their creativity, cultural knowledge and pride. Millah R. developed a yarning circle space and collaborated with students from other schools as part of the Education Plan.    Gem, Jackson and Millah also presented their work, speaking clearly, confidently and proudly about their learning journey and the impact of their projects. Their presentations reflected the dedication, leadership and cultural pride they have demonstrated throughout the program.

We had such an incredible day, and we are so very proud of each student. We look forward to working with Yarra Ranges Tech School next year. 

National Reconciliation Week 

As we gathered to commemorate National Reconciliation Week (NRW) from 27th May to 3rd June, staff and students reflected on the importance of unity and respect between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.   During SELF classes, students tasked to complete reflective tasks based on this year’s theme, “All In,” a theme that calls for all Australians to commit wholeheartedly to reconciliation every single day.  Additionally, staff and students had the opportunity to purchase traditional foods at the Café during this week. Students engaged thoughtfully with prompts that encouraged them to consider their own role in reconciliation and how they can contribute to a more inclusive and respectful community. Examples of student work have been proudly displayed around the school (also see some of these images below), showcasing their learning, creativity, and reflections.

Answers to last month’s National Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week Trivia 

How many distinct Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups or "mobs" are there across Australia?  

A)    Around 50

B)    About 150

C)    Over 250

D)    Nearly 500   <-----------

The Aboriginal artwork symbol below represents: 

A)   Meeting place

B)   Camps

C)   Four women sitting      <-----------

D)   Two men sitting

Which of the following is a traditional bush food used by Australia’s First Nations people?

A)   Quinoa

B)   Wattleseed     <-----------

C)   Kale

D)   Rice

What was the name of the Aboriginal mission near Healesville, Victoria, where First Nations people successfully farmed the land and protested for their rights in the late 1800s?

A)   Lake Tyers

B)   Framlingham

C)   Coranderrk     <-----------

D)   Cummeragunja

On the Aboriginal flag of Australia, what does the red colour represent?

A)   The blood of the people

B)   The land      <-----------

C)   The setting sun

D)   The spirit world

Key significant dates on the calendar:

• 7 – 14 July – National NAIDOC Week

Taylah Moschetti - First Nations Advocate at Lilydale Heights College. 

Email her at taylah.moschetti@education.vic.gov.au if you ever need a yarn. 

Until next newsletter update!