First Nations cultural incursion

Cultural Incursion with Uncle Ron

On the 2nd of September the First Nations students had a cultural incursion with Wamba Wamba elder, Uncle Ron Murray. The students learnt about smoking ceremonies including how, where and why they are conducted, and where they can do a welcome to country as an indigenous person. Uncle Ron brought along his collection of cultural items for the students to look at, including hand carved boomerangs, kangaroo fur, shields, cooking items, and replica wooden weapons. The students learnt about how they were used historically, and where to find the items used. This includes the local Mt William (Wilimee Mooring) where a particular type of greenstone is found and was used by the Wurundjeri, DjaDja Wurrung and Taungurung people for opening Quandong Tree berries. The students had the opportunity to smash and open the berries, and learnt recipes on how to use them.

Ron also discussed stories of hardship that First Nations people have experienced, such as facing racism, the White Australia Policy, not being acknowledged or recognised for their service in the military despite their sacrifice, and living on missions – places that were established for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to live when they were forcibly removed from the land and families. Ron highlighted how things have changed, and how those people have carved the way forward for the young Indigenous Australians of today, encouraging the students to be proud of their heritage and who they are while also making positive decisions. The students had a great and enjoyable time, and we can't wait to have Ron back at the college.