News

Mathoura students immersed in culture

Jul 5, 2022

Chad Ward, Jobe Unwin and Chanze Egan taking part in traditional Aboriginal face painting.

This week is NAIDOC Week - a week where we specifically celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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Coinciding with the first week of the NSW school holidays, Mathoura Public School made a conscious decision to host an early celebration on the last day of term.

Students were immersed with authentic learning experiences, walking to the beautiful bushlands located near the Gulpa Creek Walking Trail for a special activity.

“They were met by Aboriginal Elder Rick Ronnan, who opened the celebrations with a 'Welcome to Country' and traditional smoking ceremony for the students and staff,” principal Janice Eddy said.

A smoking ceremony was performed for staff and students.

“Each class then read out a personalised 'Acknowledgement of Country' which they had created during library lessons throughout the week.

“Students then took part in a variety of activities including face painting, playing the didgeridoo and tapping clap sticks, while students danced to the music, creating artworks using natural resources, constructing humpies, cooking damper and observing local wildlife.

“Mathoura Public School is extremely grateful for the support that Rick Ronnan continues to provide to their school, educating their students about local Aboriginal history and culture.”