The students of Blaxland East Public School had a fun day immersing themselves in Aboriginal culture on Friday, August 3 during a late celebration of NAIDOC Week.
Darug man Steven Trist provided the Welcome to Country, principal Kerry Bryan delivered a speech around this year’s NAIDOC theme ‘because of her we can’, and Aboriginal Elder Uncle Graeme Cooper got the day’s activities underway with a smoking ceremony.
Students also learnt about local Aboriginal language, dance, wood work, chalk drawing and cooking damper by campfire.
Mrs Bryan said the day complements what the students learn about Indigenous culture during the rest of the year.
“Having a full day of the sights, sounds, smells and activities of Aboriginal culture gives the students a strong sense of connection to their normal Aboriginal studies,” Mrs Bryan said.
“Blaxland East has celebrated NAIDOC with a fun day of activities each year since 2014 and the students look forward to the day each year. Each year we organise different cultural activities for students to engage in.
“Our Aboriginal students lead the day and enjoy being with other Aboriginal people and Elders, listening to their stories as they participate in the activities.”