Yarning Conference 

Yarning Conference 2024

On Tuesday 22nd October, twenty Year 5 students, Steve and two parents caught the 86 tram to Bundoora Park to attend the annual Darebin Council NAIDOC Yarning Conference. We joined over 400 other local Year 5 students there, on Wurundjeri country. Beautiful sunshine and a warm breeze greeted us as we were welcomed traditionally by local Wurundjeri Elder, Uncle Bill Nicholson.

We learned an incredible amount of information about what a Treaty would mean for First Nations Victorians, as well as hearing about the importance of Truth Telling. The message was clear: for us to move forward as a society, the truth about Australia’s indigenous and colonial history must be told. It must be taught in Australian schools. A Treaty would mean a peaceful agreement is established, allowing a pathway for proper reconciliation.

NPS students were given the opportunity to weave their own bracelet in the colours of the Aboriginal flag. It was tricky at first but everyone soon got the hang of it. Later, all students and adults participated in a NAIDOC Solidarity March around the grounds of the farm. Everyone proudly showed off their signs as they chanted and marched.

Here are some quotes from students attending the day:

Nina – “The march was very powerful and I felt really connected to the culture.”

Shanaya – “Weaving the bracelets was a highlight because we actually got to do what the Elders would have done.”

Anvita – “I liked listening to the songs and poems, especially the solo singer.”

Tig – “When the people from the First Peoples’ Assembly got up to tell their stories, I found it really interesting.”

Isla – “I liked the bracelets, the snacks they gave us and reuniting with friends from other schools.”

Rachael – “I liked the weaving because you had to concentrate but not too much. Mine turned out OK.”

Olive – “I liked going on the march while chanting “Always was, always will be Aboriginal land”, and walking through the smoke and reflecting on the past.”

Seleena – “I liked the weaving because it was unique and it doesn’t pop up in everyday life.”

Remy – “I really liked the weaving because it was quite satisfying to finish, even though my mum did most of it for me.”

As you can see, the Yarning Conference experience has had a powerful impact on our NPS students. I strongly encourage current Year 4 students to apply to attend the conference in 2025.

Thanks so much to our two parent helpers, Holly and Lauren, for coming with us.

Steven 5/6