Peppercorns Camp to Yorta Yorta Country

Last Week, our Peppercorns class, along with Olly, Gillian and Claire, spent time on Yorta Yorta Country. Here is a small snapshot of the incredible time they had.

Day One

The children were welcomed at the Rumbalara Football and Netball club with a smoking ceremony, and welcome from Club President, Josh Aitkinson. The children played TAG (Traditional Aboriginal Games) such as Jumpin Pin, in the sunshine, then returned to the club rooms to lean about story telling using symbols.

The children left to go to their accomodation and a BBQ dinner.

Day Two

Staying in the cabins overnight, the children went on to spend time at the Rumbalara Aboriginal co-op with elders Uncle Lance and Aunty Cheryl. The children interacted with special objects and particularly enjoyed handling the possum skinned lined coolamon. They were also fascinated by the animal artefacts native to the area. 

After morning tea Hilda and Greta from Parks Victoria visited with the children and shared further about the animals indigenous to the area. The children learned about the Eastern Long Neck Turtle - the totem of the Yorta Yorta people,  and investigated some of the traditional weapons and tools. Of particular interest was the grinding stone, that after thousands of years of use, was curved like a bowl. 

In the afternoon, the children played some cricket and had a kick of the footy before heading to Victoria Lake. The children were hopeful of catching something, but alas. They truly learned that patience is a virtue, not always rewarded.

On the second night the children were treated to a Kangaroo Stew. For many children this was their first taste of Kangaroo. The consensus was that it was delicious.

Preshil extends its gratitude to Wanyara, and especially to Sarai Roe, Sechelle Matheson and Janelle Atkinson for the program of events, and all the Elders who spent time sharing their knowledge with our children.   

At Wanyara, we provide interactive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural experiences to help people understand and embrace an Aboriginal perspective of our country. We are a passionate Aboriginal company and we are very proud to be sharing our culture with you.

Camp Reflection

My peak would probably be the kangaroo stew as it was just ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS because the meat, the sauce and vegetables all tasted absolutely amazing.

Oliver