Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
MCC’s Cultural Message Stick
This term has been a time of growth, connection, and celebration of the rich Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage within our McCarthy Catholic College community. Together, we continue to honor and share culture, creating opportunities for learning, leadership, and unity.
NSWCS Aboriginal Education Conference – Spirit on Country: Learning Together, Then, Now, and Always
Our students and staff participated in the NSWCS Aboriginal Education Conference, embracing this unique opportunity to connect with culture and community. Highlights included:
- Weaving bracelets as meaningful gifts
- Sharing cultural dance and creating painted centerpieces
- Engaging in Greg Inglis’ workshop on leadership and resilience
- Co-MCing the Gala Dinner
- Hosting the Message Stick in classrooms
Ngaar Wirribiiyaan Girls Cultural Program – Empowering Strong Young Women
This year, our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls have participated in the Ngaar Wirribiiyaan Girls Cultural Program. This initiative supports their cultural, academic, and personal journeys, empowering them to embrace their identity and grow as leaders.
We are deeply grateful to the strong Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in our community who generously share their cultural knowledge, wisdom, and experiences. These mentors provide invaluable guidance, helping our young women grow with pride and resilience.
St Edward’s Primary School Collaboration
The MCC Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Dance group had the honor of mentoring and performing with the students at St Edward’s Primary School. This collaboration supported their annual Presentation Night, engaging infants and primary students in cultural dance and performance.
Thank you to St Edward’s for inviting our students to contribute to this meaningful event and for allowing us to share culture with the younger generation.
Junior Brothers Program – Strengthening Our Young Men
Our Junior Brothers Program provided Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander boys in Years 9 and 10 with a culturally enriching space to build self-awareness, responsibility, and community values. This term, the program expanded to include boys in Years 7 and 8, ensuring even more students benefit from these empowering sessions.
We extend our gratitude to Reece and Uncle for leading this initiative and fostering cultural pride and leadership in our young men.
Year 12 Formal – Celebrating Cultural and Academic Milestones
Congratulations to our Year 12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students as they embark on the next chapter of their journeys. You embody the values of strength, resilience, and leadership, and we are incredibly proud of all you have achieved.
Year 7, 2025 Orientation – Building Community and Connection
On Tuesday, 10th December, we hosted an additional orientation morning for incoming Year 7 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. This day provided opportunities for cultural engagement, team-building activities, and forming connections with peers and mentors.
The event was led by our Year 9 and 10 Aboriginal Studies students, who shared their knowledge and experience, further strengthening our cultural community at MCC.
We look forward to welcoming these new students in 2024 and continuing their cultural and educational journey.
Gomeroi Cultural Academy
Congratulations to Bella Dow, Keely Nash, and all the graduates of the Gomeroi Cultural Academy (GCA). As cultural ambassadors, you have demonstrated incredible dedication, balancing school and community commitments while completing 40 weeks of intensive learning.
The GCA Graduation Ceremony celebrated your achievements, honoring your growth as leaders. May you continue to carry forward the lessons and strength gained through this experience as you embark on the next chapter of your journey.
Farewells
As the year draws to a close, we bid farewell to our Year 12 students and their families, along with those who may be leaving, and our exceptional Gap Year Education Assistants, Wyatt Allen and Seb Lawler.
Your dedication and hard work in supporting students, staff, and families have made a lasting impact, and your presence will be greatly missed. We wish you all the best as you embark on the next chapter of your journey, and we thank you for your invaluable contributions to our school community.
Celebrating Sporting and Extracurricular Achievements
We proudly acknowledge our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who have excelled in sports, teams, and extracurricular activities. Your efforts and achievements inspire us all and highlight the strength and diversity of our community.
Wishing you all a joyful Christmas filled with love and laughter! Here's to a fresh start in 2024 – a year of new adventures, growth, and good times. We look forward to continuing our journey together, supporting each other every step of the way!
Yaluu,
Lisa Smith
Aboriginal Education Assistant