Koorie Education

On May 26th, we commemorated National Sorry Day. To mark the occasion, our Koorie Leader, Nikiah Worrell, gave a special announcement. Her speech is below: 

 My name is Nikiah and I am the Koorie Student Leader at Berwick College. I am one of 25 emerging Aboriginal leaders currently attending Berwick College.  

Today we acknowledge National Sorry Day — a significant day of reflection, remembrance and healing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Australia.  

National Sorry Day recognises the Stolen Generations — Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were forcibly removed from their families, communities and culture under past government policies. These actions caused deep pain and trauma that continues to impact many individuals, families and communities today.  

As we acknowledge this history, we also recognise the strength, resilience and pride of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who continue to maintain strong connections to culture, Country and community.  

At Berwick College, our values guide how we learn, lead and support one another. Today is an important opportunity to reflect on those values.  

We show Aspiration when we commit ourselves to learning the truth about Australia’s history and striving to create a more respectful and inclusive future.  

We demonstrate Belonging by ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, families and cultures are respected, valued and celebrated within our school community.  

We strengthen our Community when we listen to one another’s stories with empathy, understanding and respect.  

We show Diligence when we continue to educate ourselves, challenge prejudice and work towards reconciliation every day — not just today.  

And we pursue Excellence when we lead with kindness, integrity and a commitment to making our school a place where everyone feels seen, heard and valued.  

National Sorry Day reminds us that reconciliation is everyone’s responsibility. By learning from the past and walking forward together, we can help build a future grounded in truth, respect and unity.  

In addition, each Homegroup had a Reconciliation Week lesson. Students were taught a range of lessons surrounding this year’s theme, All In. Students were then invited to join the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at lunchtimes to share Johnny Cakes and learn about reconciliation. Johnny Cakes, or triangles as my Nana and mother call them, are similar to damper. They are a food that was made by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people when they were moved onto missions. Here, Aboriginal people were given a food stipend that included flour, tea, and sugar. Like damper, Johnny cakes are made with flour and water; however, unlike damper, they are cooked in a pan with butter. 

My Nana was born on Brungle Mission on Wiradjuri Country. For me, triangles allow me to connect with my family and culture. The Koorie students and I have shared this with the rest of the school community to connect and learn from each other.  

Please continue to have these conversations with your students to teach respect and a sense of belonging for all. 

Stephanie Swain

Wiradjuri - Marrung Leader