Year 8 EAL Excursion to CERES

Our Year 8 EAL classes came together to go on a journey … all the way to CERES environment park in Brunswick. The real journey, however, was that of discovery - specifically discovery of some of the beliefs, traditions and history of the Wurundjeri Woiwurrung people who are the traditional custodians of the land we learn on at University High School as well as at CERES. 

This excursion was held to create deeper understanding and appreciation of the indigenous history of Australia - an important aspect of the book they are studying this term, Black Cockatoo by Carl Merrison and Hakea Hustler. 

On the excursion students got to go on the Merri Merri Cultural Walk, participate in a game of  Marngrook (said to be the precursor to AFL but played using a ball made of possum skins), learn about the Wurundjeri Woiwurrung 8 Seasons Calendar and paint themselves with cultural symbols using ochre. 

This experiential learning amongst the natural surrounds of Merri Creek where students saw scar trees and heard the yarns about how Merri Creek was formed will be a memory forever.

In their own words

Students were asked “What was your favourite memory?” and ‘What connections can you see to Black Cockatoo?”:

“My favourite memory from the excursion to CERES is colour painting my hands because it has a special connection between the Wurundjeri people and me and getting to know their knowledge of the country.”

“My strongest memory from the excursion was the painting and the possum ball. Because I really like to try the traditional activities like using mineral pigments to draw on our skin. And the possum ball is cute and fluffy.”

“The favourite memory is the time we drew a tattoo on our arm. I think it is funny and we can do something but not just sit there and listen”

“Aboriginal people are a good people and they are so special for country”

“My favourite memory of the excursion to CERES was when we looked at some indigenous tools “

“I can see the connection between aboriginal people and this land(Australia) .We really should continue this traditional culture.”