From the Principal

Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week

Last Friday, 26 May I had the great pleasure of attending the Orange community ceremony to acknowledge National Sorry Day staged at the Orange Civic Centre. Following some words from key members of our community and a Smoking Ceremony, the Kinross Wolaroi Indigenous Dance Group performed five dances, each created by our students. They were superb and their choreographic skills and precision were greatly appreciated by all present.

National Reconciliation Week and National Sorry Day hold immense significance in the ongoing journey towards healing, understanding, and unity in Australia. These observations are pivotal in acknowledging and addressing the painful history of mistreatment and discrimination faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Only in past weeks we have sadly heard of the racial abuse that members of our media and sports people continue to endure.

National Reconciliation Week commemorates two important milestones, the 1967 Referendum and the High Court Marbo decision. The 1967 Referendum marked a pivotal moment when Australians voted to include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the national census and gave the government the power to make laws for their benefit. The Mabo decision in 1992 recognised native title rights, acknowledging the historical connection of indigenous peoples to their land.

National Sorry Day, observed on 26 May  each year, is a solemn occasion where Australia can express remorse and apology for the forced removal of Indigenous children from their families, known as the Stolen Generation. It serves as a reminder of the deep pain and suffering inflicted on Indigenous communities and highlights the importance of acknowledging and healing these wounds.

These events foster crucial conversations about reconciliation, justice and the ongoing struggle for equality and respect for Indigenous Australians. They provide an opportunity for non-indigenous Australians to reflect on the injustices of the past and commit to building a more inclusive and harmonious society.

National Reconciliation Week and National Sorry Day encourage individuals, communities and organisations to engage in activities to promote understanding, respect and unity. They inspire Australians to listen to the stories, experiences and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples, and work towards eliminating disparities in health, education, employment and social inclusion.

Ultimately, these observations serve as a powerful reminder that reconciliation is an ongoing process that requires continuous efforts and a collective commitment to healing the wounds of the past, while forging a shared future built on mutual respect and understanding.

Camerata Concert

Many of our highly talented classical musicians performed at our recent Camerata Concert held in the School Auditorium. An outstanding evening where the audience enjoyed delightful and highly accomplished performances from our gifted musicians. To attain such a level of performance demands immense dedication, perseverance, and a desire to be the best they can be. I am most grateful for the skill and commitment of our performing arts staff and our students for their contributions to a wonderful evening of music.

Congratulations to our Camerata Competition Finalists.

Junior Division

Winner – Samuel Martin

Runner-Up Siobhan McPhee

Senior Division

Joint Winners - Oliver Wong and Alex Caban

Swim Team

Congratulations to the our Swim Team who recently competed at the National Age Championships held on the Gold Coast. Our students all achieved a personal best and their exceptional results reveal their dedication, commitment and desire to excel. A most sincere thank you to the swim coaches and assistants supporting the team.

We were superbly represented on the National Stage by Brodie Cashman, Caleb Cashman, Emily Clunas, Isabel Grout, Chloe McGilvray, Lara McGuigan, Eloise McMiles, Thomas Pell, Chloe Provost, Brody Steele, Edwina Waterman, Sienna Whalan and Spencer Williams.

Of the 62 races contended, 43 registered as Personal Bests (69%), 7 were in 'A' Finals and 5 were in 'B' Finals. A great result for Kinross Wolaroi.

Congratulations to Shubhang Nagar

It gives me great pleasure to announce Shubhang Nagar (Year 12) has been awarded the Associate Diploma in Speech and Drama by the International Music Examinations Body (IMEB). Shubhang is a very talented Performing Arts student who demonstrates hard work and dedication in Speech and Drama. Congratulations on an outstanding accomplishment.