This week, our students participated in a range of experiences, beginning with our beautiful NAIDOC Week Liturgy. We were honoured to have Mr Rowe and students from San Clemente join us. Alongside some of our Indigenous students, they performed a traditional cleansing dance to open our liturgy. Mr Rowe played the Yidaki (didjeridoo) and explained its cultural significance. Special mention to Lewis K for his reflection on family, what it means to be a proud Worimi boy, and the importance of keeping the fire of culture burning. 

The Tokooliba Culture Club has been a hive of activity. I explained and demonstrated traditional techniques of weaving and cord making, with students working together to make their own corded bracelet or headband in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flag colours. Students loved playing with natural playdough dyed with lemon myrtle leaves, creating patterns and symbols using pinecones, seed pods, sticks, and gumnuts. My aim is to continue hosting Culture Club sessions once a week, providing engaging experiences for the students. 

On Wednesday, students enjoyed a special canteen menu featuring bush tucker ingredients in contemporary ways. The menu included Lemon Myrtle cupcakes, Wild Rosella cordial, Strawberry gum compote over natural yoghurt, Wattle Seed ANZAC biscuits, and Finger Lime and Illawarra Plum icy sticks. The positive feedback and long queues indicated its success. Thank you to Mrs Aird, our parent helpers, and staff for assisting with the canteen. 

On Thursday, the Semester One student councillors visited all classes to share stories written or illustrated by First Nations Australians. They discussed the themes and origins of the books. I am incredibly proud of the councillors for their confidence. Teachers and students enjoyed having them share stories with their classes. 

On Thursday and Friday, students joined me in the Culture Club room to learn more about Indigenous cultures and traditions, and to try some bush herbs and fruit. All classes were respectful and engaged. 

Next week, NAIDOC Week will be celebrated officially. If you are able, please consider participating in events planned across Newcastle and the wider Hunter region

Leah Temple