Two Year 6 On Country programs took place this week, offering students rich and immersive experiences in First Nations culture and connection to land – one group on Gadigal Country and the other in Goodooga on Yuwaalaraay Country.
A small group of 30 students travelled to Goodooga on Saturday, where they were warmly welcomed into the local community and culture. From catching and cooking boogoolies and making Johnny cakes by the Birrie River with Aunty Mindy, to relaxing in the warm waters of the Bore Bath every afternoon, students embraced the learning with open hearts.
They prepared emu eggs by blowing out the yolk and white, which was then used for that night’s pancakes, played games and learnt alongside local students, and explored the significance of bush medicine and bush tucker with Aunty Karen and Uncle Bob. A visit to the Brewarrina Aboriginal Cultural Museum included quiet reflection at the river’s edge, where students learnt about one of the oldest human constructions in the world – the fish traps – and about the people and stories connected to this land.
Students worked with Uncle George on woodworking, completed the community garden project, and took part in an art project with Aunty Mindy. A full-day immersion program at the School included stories of life experiences from Aunty Nik, Aunty Karen and Uncle Bob, language lessons from Aunty Liz, classroom visits, Indigenous games and learning about the protocols involved in the use of symbols in artwork.
One of the most memorable moments was the smoking ceremony by the Bokhara River at sunset with Aunty Mindy. These experiences have created treasured lifelong memories and knowledge for students and staff. They return to Sydney with a full mind, full heart and full belly.
Thank you to Aunty Mindy, Ms Lucy (Lucy Sensei) and Glenn for creating such a rich and meaningful program.
Meanwhile, the Gadigal On Country program took place at School, with students heading out on the Tribal Warrior cruise to Clark Island. Continuing their research into the Indigenous history of Sydney, they’ve explored The Rocks, visited Cadman’s Cottage and walked through sites of cultural significance. On Tuesday, students went to Wentworth Park to play Edor – a game originating from the Aurukun Aboriginal Community in far north Queensland and the Torres Strait. Hear from some of the students about their experiences –
Sacha B Tribal Warrior Cruise “I really liked learning about Clark Island, and how they explained that we couldn’t go to the top of the island as that was where all the indigenous ancestors’ souls lived.”
Nicolas A “I found it interesting to learn about how the government tried to stop the use of the pipes that were taking fresh water from Hyde Park to Clark Island.”
Ben E The Rocks Walking Tour “I found it interesting to learn that Hyde Park is where women went to give birth. Other women would witness this and it would be like the baby’s birth certificate.”
These On Country experiences mark a key stage in the immersive First Nations learning journey at IGS. As they prepare to move into High School, they will continue to broaden their horizons through deeper study and cultural engagement. We look forward to hearing more from both groups as they return to school.