Totem pole renovation

By Kelly Carmody

Dec 7, 2023

Cultural collaboration: Grahamvale Primary School students Piper Stagg, Amira Colger, Eli Care and Thenuka Wijesuriya. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

Nine hand-picked students from Grahamvale Primary School were given a unique opportunity this year to breathe new life into 20-year-old totem poles at their school.

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The idea, originating from a former principal, was entrusted to Year 6 teacher and Marrung school leader Andrew Papadatos.

It was a collaborative effort alongside Koorie education support officer Rebecca Atkinson.

Students completed the totem poles this month, and they are now on display for all to view near the school’s entrance.

“It was a wonderful opportunity for the students, and seeing it all come together was incredible,” Mr Papadatos said.

“We made sure that we always remained mindful and respectful to the existing art on the totem poles, and we are really pleased with the result.

“It’s now a welcoming space that all can enjoy, and recognises First Nations people and our school community.”

Koorie line art was the primary technique used for the designs on the totem poles.

Students were given time to practise throughout the year before they completed their final pieces.

The designs resemble native animals to the Goulburn Valley, including turtles, birds and snakes.

Miss Atkinson said the project’s best part was its cultural inclusion.

“It was a great project that included First Nations students and non-Indigenous students,” she said.

“It was lovely to see the artwork reflect our local area, bushland and rivers, and witness increased engagement around cultural inclusion within the school.

“The kids are starting to understand and acknowledge First Nations culture and history, and that’s also what we had set out to help achieve.

“The kids have done a great job — they (the totem poles) look incredible.”