NAIDOC Week

Last week our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students celebrated NAIDOC Week which was officially held from July 2nd - 9th. The theme for this year is "For Our Elders". We were so fortunate to be joined by Mark Olive, aka The Black Olive, for an Indigenous cooking workshop. Mark is Australia's most renowned Indigenous chef with his The Outback Café series televised around the world and has made appearances on MasterChef. The students cooked up a delicious Kangaroo Bolognese which they enjoyed for their lunch. 

Our whole school assembly was held on Friday and had a strong NAIDOC Week theme. We were honoured to have Uncle Ron Murray, a proud Wamba Wamba man and Wakka Wakka Elder Uncle Paul Chapman . A beautiful Acknowledgement of Country was performed by Uncle Paul before he had the whole school up on their feet to perform a didgeridoo cleanse which the students enthusiastically joined in with. Artwork was on display which was created by year 9 student Chloe F and our senior students, Chelsea T, Georgia S and Lilah Y read a beautiful piece on why the Elders play such an important part in their culture and the wider community. This was followed by a breathtaking didgeridoo performance from Uncle Paul. 

This assembly was followed by a Smoking Ceremony where all students, staff and Indigenous students’ families were invited. The turnout, participation and respect shown from the school community really displayed the values of the College. So many of our students participated while Uncle Ron played the Didgeridoo. It was a very moving and remarkable event. A very special mention to our inaugural Indigenous School Captain, Cameron P who helped plan the week and showed incredible work ethic and passion within his role. Friday was a special day for many of our staff and students and it would not have been possible without his leadership. We would also like to thank Sarah Rose for her incredible support and encouragement during the planning of the celebrations. The importance Sarah and the College placed on celebrating and acknowledging NAIDOC Week was evident in the spirit in which it was celebrated, and we cannot wait to do it again in 2024. 

-Kate Austin, Koorie Support