Parish News
On Monday, August 4, a group of Siena Catholic Primary School’s First Nations students attended a Children & Youth Cultural Gathering – Close the Gap Day at Federation University, celebrating inclusivity and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices.
Maeve, Darcy, Alirah and Samuel attended the day which fell on National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day. It was an opportunity for children to immerse themselves in the rich traditions and knowledge sharing of Australia’s First Nations Peoples. Shelley and I felt very privileged to share this experience with them and hear their reflections. Thanks to our parents for supporting their attendance.
The day provided opportunity for identity, storytelling, connection and belonging as students participated in a range of cultural activities including: Traditional Dance, yarning sessions, damper making, Aboriginal games and art. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with other learners from other schools, especially our friends from St Alipius!
We thank April and the Team at BADAC, together with other sponsors for organising a wonderful day! Thanks to parents – Patti, Pip and Rachel for their support during the day.
The Siena students shared some of their highlights of the day:
Maeve: I learnt that there are many mobs within the Ballarat area, not just one. Making Damper was my favourite part of the day because I enjoyed learning how to make traditional food. It was great to learn about our culture and I would love to do it again.
Darcy: I learnt about Aboriginal symbols and what they mean; for example spear, shield and gathering circle (pictured in the gallery below).
My favourite part of the day was listening to Pancakes telling us stories. He told them in a funny way that I was able to learn and enjoy them.
Alirah: I learnt a lot more about my culture. Boomerang throwing was my favourite because I have never done it before. I would love to go again because it was really good to go out and spend time learning about my culture.
Samuel: I enjoyed the traditional dance and had the opportunity to showcase this on stage during the finale. I felt proud to get up on the stage to show different characters and stories through my movements.
Written by Caitlin Batch – Siena Catholic Primary School, Lucas.
