V Love LO E INDIGENOUS EDUCATION EDITION
Our Catholic Schools TS V. C AT H O L I C. E D U. AU
T E R M
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CONTENTS
Executive Director’s Welcome
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Indigenous Education In Our Schools
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School in Profile
4-5
NAIDOC Week
6
Love Our Land
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Love Our Children Love Our Emerging Leaders
8-9 10-11
Executive Director’s Welcome Welcome to the Term 3 edition of the
Catholic communities. A celebration will be
Love our Catholic Schools Magazine.
held in Term 4 to celebrate our recipients.
Catholic Education Week, held in week 3,
There is much to be proud of within
commenced with a special Mass to celebrate
our Catholic schools and in this term’s
our Deus Caritas Est Award recipients.
magazine we celebrate Indigenous
The Townsville Catholic Education Deus
Education in our schools.
Caritas Est Award is our most prestigious student award with each of the 12 secondary schools nominating one representative who is committed to the ways of Jesus Christ through words and action. The award is an opportunity to acknowledge students who
Love Our Spirituality Love Our Teachers
12-13 14-15
demonstrate these characteristics in their
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Northern Schools
small bursary which can either be donated
17-18 Education Award recipients. This award
18-19
recognises staff and volunteers who have made an outstanding contribution to Catholic Education. There were 28 people recognised
Love Our Townsville Schools
20-22
Love Our Western Schools
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Education programs to ensure better educational experiences and outcomes.
programs available to our students
We also celebrated our Spirit of Catholic
Southern Schools
and assist in the delivery of Indigenous
We have several Indigenous Education
the pursuit of their service goals.
Love Our
team who work closely with our schools
Catholic Education Week celebrations.
to a charity of their choice, or put towards
Love Our
and dedicated Indigenous Education
day to day activities and is a key part of
Each recipient received a medal and a
Love Our Education
We are blessed to have a hard-working
for their contribution to our Townsville Diocese
which aim to ensure better educational experiences and outcomes. Our Indigenous Education Workers ensure we understand, respect and embed the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples into the curriculum. I hope you enjoy reading about our Indigenous Education initiatives and the contributions our staff make daily to inspire our students.
Jacqui Francis EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Congratulations
TO OUR DEUS CARITAS EST AWARD WINNERS Cover: Students from St Joseph’s Catholic School, Mount Isa Townsville Catholic Education acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future. All information and images are subject to copyright. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored or transmitted without the prior permission of the Townsville Catholic Education Office. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information at the time of print, TCEO takes no liability for any errors, omissions or subsequent consequences on information within this publication. © Copyright 2020
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Back row: Isabella Harrison, St Anthony’s Catholic College, Deeragun | Aleisha Knack, St Margaret Mary’s College, Hyde Park | Bishop Tim Harris | Penitito Sagato, Ryan Catholic College, Kirwan | Darcy Ryder, Good Shepherd Catholic College, Mount Isa Middle row: Tamarra Woods, St Patrick’s College, Townsville | Charlotte Orenshaw, St Catherine’s Catholic College, The Whitsundays | Edwin Jomon, Ignatius Park College, Cranbrook | Emily Firth, Gilroy Santa Maria College, Ingham Front row: Hayley Nosworthy, Burdekin Catholic High School, Ayr | Bree-Anna Meehan, Columba Catholic College, Charters Towers | Jacqui Francis, Executive Director | Benjamin Kleingeld, St Teresa’s College, Abergowrie | Chloe Smith, Southern Cross Catholic College, Annandale
Indigenous Education in our schools
Congratulations
Too Deadly
and understanding of student learning
on strong leadership. Leadership that
of Catholic schools to continue to:
histories and cultures through cultural knowledge, community connections and understanding student learning needs.
•
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This award recognises a leadership team who draws on cultural knowledge, community connections
Strait Islander histories and cultures.
Develop and embed a ‘pedagogy students in achieving their learning and leadership goals.
•
Embrace, enhance and promote lifelong learning and holistic education through
Education Services, Louise Vella-Cox says
the Emerging Leaders Incentive Scheme. •
Develop a positive sense of identity through understanding, respecting
communities to ensure that our the nation's
and embedding Indigenous
rich culture and history is celebrated.
perspectives in the curriculum. •
Lead in engaging the school and
culturally responsive pedagogical
wider community in developing,
strategies through their high expectation
implementing and enacting a school-
relationships and networks. This ensures our schools are offering targeted, high-
Educational Leaders (ACEL QLD Branch).
social justice and inclusivity.
leadership within our school communities.
“Our Indigenous Education team support
Award by The Australian Council for
Operate on the principles of equity,
of difference’ that supports
Services team plays enables the school
been awarded the Emerging Leaders
community engagement and partnership. •
Education Services (IES) team provides this
the role that the Indigenous Education
Webber and Krista O'Connor - who have
Trust in the power of parental and
Townsville Catholic Education’s Indigenous
Director, Catholic Identity and Indigenous
Advisers - Janelle Knack, Tammi
build respect for Aboriginal and Torres This response enables our network
for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
three amazing Indigenous Education
needs to create experiences that
Indigenous Education in our schools relies creates experiences and builds respect
to our
based Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). •
Provide cultural awareness,
quality educational initiatives that advance a
competency and responsiveness in
reconciliation agenda” Ms Vella-Cox said.
staff through Mission in Action and
In addition to creating cultural learning
Walking on County spiritual retreats.
experiences, the IES team work with our schools to implement strategic responses to improve educational outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
Louise Vella-Cox D I R E C T O R , C AT H O L I C I D E N T I T Y A N D I N D I G E N O U S E D U C AT I O N S E R V I C E S
TOWNSVILLE CATHOLIC EDUCATION INDIGENOUS EDUCATION SERVICES TEAM
Tammi Webber
Janelle Knack
Krista O’Connor
Kristy Clancy
Kylie Wilson
Vanessa Blackman
Indigenous Education Adviser
Indigenous Education Adviser
Indigenous Education Adviser
Project Manager – Emerging Leaders Incentive Scheme
Project Support Officer
Administration Assistant
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SS CC HH OO OO LL II NN PP RR OO FF II LL EE ST JOSEPH'S CATHOLIC SCHOOL – MOUNT ISA
Intertwining Indigenous culture into the school environment St Joseph’s Catholic School, Mount Isa
Indigenous blessings. A Welcome to
image as we enter the school, with the
offers a small school environment for
Country in Kalkatungu language, and
yellow lines guiding us to the Learning
students in Prep to Year 6, promoting the
a smoking ceremony as a spiritual
Communities, with each space containing
gospel values. The original St Joseph’s
cleansing and blessing were incorporated
an element of the symbol, connecting us
School was staffed by the Sisters of
into the celebration, with the smoking
together as one. The new school logo and
St Joseph and opened in Mount Isa in
ceremony leading Bishop Tim Harris
day uniform (launching in 2021) also contain
1932. Fifty-three years later in 1985, St
around to each learning community
a watermarked version of the symbol.
Joseph’s School moved to its present
with students, staff and facilities
location on Twenty-Third Avenue.
receiving a blessing with holy water.
At St Joseph’s, there is a love of learning,
In 2018, the school board undertook a
Identity Project) was invited to provide
the arts and sport. Each student is given
process to review the existing logo as part
feedback with regard to the design.
the opportunity to find their niche at
of their Annual School Improvement Plan.
He affirmed the collaborative work of
the school and are actively encouraged
As a school that is continuing to improve the
the school community, as intentionally
by the committed and dedicated staff
contemporary learning services on offer for
Dialogical, noting the inclusivity of the
to develop to their fullest potential.
their families, the logo should acknowledge
logo, particularly the acknowledgement
their past, contextualise their Catholic
of Indigenous perspectives.
The school is proud of its diversity and willingly cultivates this. St Joseph’s
identity and take them into the future.
promotes the place of Aboriginal and
The Indigenous element of the logo was
Torres Strait Islander students within the
designed for the St Joseph’s community
school community. Signs and symbols
by Kalkadoon artist, Sheree Blackley. The
which proclaim Aboriginal and Torres Strait
watermarked Indigenous image represents
Islander heritage are publicly displayed
families that are connected to larger
both inside and outside school buildings.
communities and the lines of connection
In Term 3, St Joseph’s blessed and officially opened its new $8.4m Block Grant Authority (BGA) works which has seen large-scale
illustrate the bond of life, love and country. The colours symbolise life force (yellow), spirituality (red) and community (white).
redevelopment of the 56-year-old campus
The symbol has been incorporated into
by building 14 general learning areas
school life in several ways. Indigenous
and breakout spaces, the new San Jose
Education workers developed a resource
Library and Student Support Services,
for each classroom to explain the design
amenities and community spaces.
and its significance. Architects at i4
The official opening of the new school buildings included both Catholic and
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Architecture, worked with the image to have it incorporated into the walkways and the new facilities. We encounter the
Professor Didier Pollefeyt, KU Leuven, Belgium (Enhancing Catholic School
SCHOOL IN PROFILE
The Story of Our New Logo & Motto •
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The new logo concept is embedded
(Orange), MacKillop (Yellow) and Ryan
within a heart, representing the
(Green). These houses acknowledge
love of God, for one another and for
individuals who have had a profound
learning. The heart also links with the
role in the history of our school. The
Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred
colours also connect the logo with the
Heart, our founding religious order.
mineral rich landscape of Mount Isa.
The Indigenous symbol watermarked
•
an historical link between the early logo
Joseph’s community by Kalkadoon artist
of San Jose, our current logo and the
Sheree Blackley, represents families that
modern education service the school
are connected to larger communities.
provides. This symbol is comprised of
The lines of connection illustrate
the first two letters (XP) of the Greek
the bond of life, love and country.
word ‘Christos’, one of the earliest symbols for Christ. Its inclusion puts
The Cross, formed by the two halves
Christ as the focal point of our school.
of the heart coming together in the centre, links us to St Mary of the Cross MacKillop and our Catholic identity. •
The inclusion of the Chi Rho (☧) provides
in the heart was designed for our St
The pages of the book represent our commitment to quality and inclusive Catholic education for all. The colours capture our four sports houses – Nolan (Maroon), Morgan
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The Southern Cross refers to our location and the work of the Josephite Sisters in Australia, under the Southern Cross. It also represents knowledge, to which education provides the key. It is located in the upper left quadrant of the logo, in reference to our location in North West Queensland.
The school’s motto is LOVE Love from, of and with God and one another
LEARN Learn about God, one another and our world
SERVE Serve God, one another and our community in the footsteps of Jesus and St Mary of the Cross MacKillop
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NAIDOC WEEK
Always Was, Always Will Be NAIDOC celebrations are held across Australia each year to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC is not only celebrated in Indigenous communities, but by all Australians from all walks of life. The celebrations usually take place in July, however due to COVID-19 the celebrations will take place from 8 to 15 November 2020. The NAIDOC 2020 theme – Always Was, Always Will Be. – recognises that First Nations people have occupied and cared for this continent for over 65,000 years. The theme acknowledges that this nation’s story began at the dawn of time and didn’t begin with documented European contact. NAIDOC 2020 invites all Australians to embrace and acknowledge the true history of this country.
MATILDA NEUCOM YEAR 6 STUDENT AT H O LY S P I R I T CATHOLIC SCHOOL, CRANBROOK
We asked some of our Indigenous students around the Townsville diocese what this theme means to them.
This theme highlights that we will always be the First Nations people, and we will always be connected to this land. We
ALEISHA KNACK YEAR 12 STUDENT AT ST MARGARET MARY’S COLLEGE, HYDE PARK ‘Always Was, Always Will Be’ is a theme that brings all Australians together to recognise and appreciate the rich history, languages and knowledge of Indigenous Australians.
are all one family community. Nothing can change our history, and our culture will continue to live on in our actions. This theme is incredibly smart and it makes you think about history and how people treated one another then and today. This theme is important to all Indigenous Australians as it
My people are the Gunggari people whose land lies along the Maranoa River
acknowledges the past and it reassures
which flows along outback South West Queensland, near the town of Mitchell. My
us that we walk towards a better future.
people have been a part of this land for over 65,000 years and continue to share and pass wisdom, culture and spirituality to the future generations. Sadly many of them have passed but their stories about culture and connection to our land, I hope will continue for more generations to come. This year’s theme for me calls all of us to recognise a culture that is enriched with dance, painting, ancient structures, agricultural and technological inventions and the world's oldest living stories.
MOARANNI SAM YEAR 12 STUDENT AT COLUMBA CATHOLIC COLLEGE, CHARTERS TOWERS This year's NAIDOC theme ‘Always Was, Always Will Be’ means a few things to me. The first being love, a love of our land, a love of our Elders, a love of our culture and a love of our story. Recently I was honoured with the position of Cultural Leader Prefect at Columba Catholic College and was presented with this at the opening of the school's Yarning Circle. To be presented with my badge in such a beautiful sacred space where we can come together to share the stories, share our culture and to have a yarn to both Indigenous and non-indigenous people, makes me both very happy and proud to be a strong Indigenous leader for my people and my school.
JACK ANDERSEN YEAR 5 STUDENT AT ST CLARE’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL, BURDELL This year’s theme for NAIDOC Week is ‘Always Was, Always Will Be’. The theme means that this land has been an important part of Aboriginal culture since the beginning of time and will always be. We share this rich land with many different cultures. It is important to remember that this land we walk together on is the Traditional Custodians’ land. Culture flows free on this land, we help to spread it. Remember the Owners of this land have occupied and cared for it for over 65,000 years. Listen to them, acknowledge them and respect them.
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LOVE OUR LAND
Bush Tucker Trail St Benedict’s Catholic School, Shaw
as staff and parent volunteers to ensure the
This project will continue to allow the
located on the corner of Dalrymple and
area could be made accessible for students
school community to build collaborative
Shaw Roads in Townsville recognises
and come alive with educational potential.
partnerships with many stakeholders
that the land on which the school has developed was once a traditional meeting and trading space for community gatherings of local Aboriginal people.
This exciting environmental project has allowed students through all year levels to learn about the local bushland, its native flora and fauna, aspects of biodiversity
During early 2019, the concept and
and ecology and most importantly about
idea of creating a Bush Tucker Trail on
Indigenous culture and some of the
a small area of land adjoining the side
valuable knowledge and customs of
boundary of the school came to life.
Traditional Owner groups in and around this
Now, less than 12 months later, students
region. The Bush Tucker Trail strengthens
have a new space to learn about
students' wellbeing and contemplative
Indigenous perspectives, culture, and to
spirituality by being in nature, meditating,
enhance their connection to nature.
and practising ‘Dadirri’, an Aboriginal
With the support of their school’s Environmental School Officer, Ngairie Trigg, St Benedict’s engaged with their wider community, including Townsville City Council, Dr Greg Calvert (JCU), Wulgurukaba Traditional Owner Ashley Saltner, respected local Elder, Uncle Russ Butler, Coastal Dry Tropics Landcare as well
practice meaning ‘inner deep listening and
from the local community. The school has recognised that the native bushland and plant species will attract birdlife, bees and other insects as well as providing a safe habitat for other animals. Moving forward, students can foster a sense of responsibility and care towards the environment and put the hopes and goals of Laudato Si’ into practice through their involvement in and ongoing care for this bush tucker trail (Laudato Si' is the second encyclical of Pope Francis. The encyclical has the subtitle "On Care for Our Common Home").
quiet, still awareness and waiting.’ Students
All strategies will be underpinned with the
also learn about key ideas in the Aboriginal
end goal of natural regeneration, so that
and Torres Strait Islander Histories and
in time this project can be self-sustaining
Cultures Cross Curriculum Priority, including
with minimal need for intervention
that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
and ongoing maintenance. The Bush
communities maintain a special connection
Tucker Trail is a real life project that will
to and responsibility for Country/Place.
continue to connect students to the wider community and Indigenous Education.
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LOVE OUR CHILDREN
We are the Elders of tomorrow, hear our voice NATIONAL ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CHILDREN’S DAY National Aboriginal and Torres Strait
their families at a young age, without
This year’s theme, “We are the Elders
Islander Children’s Day is our national
knowing their actual birth date because
of tomorrow, hear our voice” highlights
day dedicated to celebrating our children.
of Government policies which saw
the uniqueness and importance of the
This day is celebrated across the country
records and information destroyed.
knowledge and wisdom of Aboriginal and
each year on the 4th of August.
A majority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Children’s Day is a time Aboriginal
Islander children are thriving and growing
and Torres Strait Islander families
up strong in their cultures, with support
and communities and all Australians,
from their families and communities.
celebrate the strengths and culture of our
However, a significant number of our
children. It is an opportunity to show our
children continue to face ongoing
support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait
challenges stemming from colonisation
Islander children, as well as learn about
and its effects, including discrimination,
the crucial impact that culture, family
poverty, trauma, dislocation from land and
and community play in the life of every
culture, and community disempowerment.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child.
To achieve equality, we must approach
Do you know why we celebrate this
these challenges through a holistic
day? Since 1988, the date 4th August has
approach, considering Aboriginal
been used to communally celebrate the
and Torres Strait Islander children’s
birthdays of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
wellbeing, safety and development.
Islander children who were taken from
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Torres Strait Islander peoples, starting in childhood. Whether as holders of traditional knowledge, or working to uphold the rights and improve the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, Elders are often called upon to provide reassurance, comfort and hope. Hearing children’s voices today plays a crucial role in their development towards being influential Elders and leaders of the future. Each year, there are more than 500 Children’s Day events held around the nation. Here is how some of our schools celebrated this special day!
LOVE OUR CHILDREN
St Clare’s Catholic School, Burdell Acknowledging and recognising the strengths of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, family and culture, classes took part in a Google site investigation learning more about the origin of the day, discussing what the theme, 'We are the Elders of tomorrow, hear our voice' means to them and unpacking the lyrics of the Gowrie Boys and Jamie Lee Wilson's "Tomorrow's Heroes". Our future Elders, the Year 5 members of the Bimbi Wadja Club: Jack, Madaisha and Maddison ran lunchtime sessions for the Prep and Year 1 students, offering a range of activities including making echidnas, Aboriginal jigsaw puzzles and colouring-in.
St Margaret Mary’s College, Hyde Park The Emerging Leaders students at St Margaret Mary’s College spent weeks preparing for this special day. The day began with the junior leaders presenting their own creation of “Acknowledgement of Country” over the loudspeaker to the whole college. They wrote this taking into consideration the theme of this day, “We are the Elders of tomorrow, hear our voice”. The Year 7 and 8 Emerging Leader students designed and created their own noticeboard to share their thoughts and aspirations as Elders of Tomorrow with the college. The juniors then enjoyed a morning tea in the Milpera room organised by the Emerging Leaders team.
St Kieran’s Catholic School, Mount Isa As part of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day, St Kieran’s incorporated environmental activities in their celebrations to learn about caring for country. This included planting new seedlings, learning about bird life in the school and becoming bird watchers, making bird feeders and environmental artwork. The bird watching was so successful that it will now be part of lunch time activities every day.
St Catherine’s Catholic College, The Whitsundays Zalia Gabey (Year 2 student): “This day for me means having a special day for all children who are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, and also a day for everyone who didn’t know their birthdays.”
St John Bosco Catholic School, Collinsville At St John Bosco Catholic School, the Year 2 students looked at different styles of Indigenous art and then completed the activities created by the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day website.
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LOVE OUR EMERGING LEADERS
Voice of an Emerging Leader from the 2019 Graduating Class of Ryan Catholic College, Kirwan
The First Peoples Emerging Leaders Incentive Scheme is a holistic and equalitybased approach to Indigenous scholarships and student development within Townsville Catholic Education (TCE) secondary schools. All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
“Personally I struggled to get through
students across our 11 secondary schools
high school especially in the early years.
are able to join the program. As an
I know many teenagers find school
Emerging Leader, each student completes
challenging when dealing with other
a Personal Leadership Agreement with
commitments and personal issues. For
the support of a mentor and their school’s
me, the Emerging Leaders Program
own Emerging Leaders Coordinator.
and everyone who is a part of it, helped
There are currently 660 Emerging
me in every way they possibly could
Leaders on the program across our 11
to make my time at school happier
secondary schools.
as well as easier. A lot of stress and anxiety was taken away once I joined
The Personal Leadership Agreement
the program and was shown the many
requires the Emerging Leader to set goals based on the three pillars of the program:
When registering for the program at the
opportunities the program had to offer.
start of the year, parents/carers were
I definitely would not have done as
• attendance
asked, “How can Emerging Leaders and
well as I did and graduated if it wasn’t
• academic improvement
the school best support your child?”
for the encouragement and help of
• engagement In addition, a Personal Incentive Goal is set within the Personal Leadership Agreement.
We received a wide range of meaningful feedback and powerful insights on the value of the program:
Once the agreement is in place, Emerging Leaders receive a school fee subsidy, uniform allowance, and
“Homework Programs are very useful to keep kids engaged in their schooling”
opportunities to participate in activities
“Education/career opportunities
that support attendance, academic
for future career endeavours”
improvement and engagement in:
“Encourage the value of a good
• community service
education and work ethic”
• cultural events and
“Having a good Mentor”
• other experiences.
“Drum home the importance of commitment, goal setting and connection to our cultural heritage” “Through building a connection with fellow Indigenous students and by providing cultural support” “Helping them express themselves” “Encourage her to try new things and be confident and not afraid to ask for help” “Helping her understand the importance of knowing who she is and her strengths”
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the program and the team involved”.
LOVE OUR EMERGING LEADERS
Kids Helpline NQ Video Challenge Competition Finalist Tenason Stark is a proud Jawoyn Emerging
The video is currently posted on the Kids
Leader who is currently a Year 11 student
Helpline Website https://kidshelpline.com.
at Ryan Catholic College, Kirwan and the
au/nq-challenge and can also be viewed
Indigenous Student Representative on the
on YouTube https://youtu.be/bmnhwf-K30I
School's Indigenous Education Advisory Committee. In 2019, Tenason and John Pioc entered a video in the Kids Helpline NQ Video Challenge. They had 5 days to plan, shoot, edit and submit the video based around mental health in a school environment. The video was shortlisted before they were selected as finalists. The video conveys a powerful message to young people to let them know that they are not alone and how to find help when faced with challenges to their mental health. We are very proud of these efforts to break down the stigma surrounding mental health.
BURDEKIN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL, AYR
Profile on Takia-May Solomon, a 2019 Graduate In 2015, Takia-May was awarded a 3-year
How have the TCE programs for
Indigenous Youth Leadership Program
Indigenous Students helped you?
scholarship. Following on from this, she
The Emerging Leaders Incentive Scheme
signed on to the First Peoples Emerging
worked well with my School-Based
Leaders Incentive Scheme. Townsville
Traineeship. While the traineeship gave
Catholic Education initiated these
me paid work experience, it also counted
programs to facilitate the development of
towards my Incentive Level Award. The
future Indigenous Leaders through their
Incentive Scheme motivated me to do
secondary schooling. We caught up with
good things for my school and community.
Takia-May to reflect on the past 5 years.
I was able to do different things I hadn’t
Eight months on from graduation, already! What are you doing now? I’ve continued working at the ANZ Bank, Ayr branch, as a casual employee, after finishing my traineeship there. I’m enjoying it – building customer service skills and I’ve gone from teller work to more of the banking aspects.
tried before. Being an Indigenous Student Leader at B.C.H.S. from a Traditional
What makes the Emerging Leaders
Owner Family, I got to bring the Welcome
Incentive Scheme work for Students and
to Country on behalf of my Elders. For
their Parents/Carers?
my family, it helped financially – they
The Personal Leadership Agreement
did not have to worry about that side of
… goal setting … planning out
schooling. Also, they were more involved
what you want to achieve.
with my schooling because there were meetings to keep them in the loop.
What advice would you give to students currently taking part in the Emerging Leaders Incentive Scheme? Stay motivated. Keep working towards your goals. Get involved and try new experiences.
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LOVE OUR SPIRITUALITY
Embracing Indigenous spirituality within our school grounds EMBEDDING ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PERSPECTIVES IN SCHOOLS IS AN INTEGRAL PART OF TOWNSVILLE CATHOLIC EDUCATION.
Many of our schools have created
“The Yarning Garden will allow all students
The space and garden represents
Indigenous sacred spaces where
to have a place where they can sit down
the local community that St Kieran’s
Indigenous and non-Indigenous
and talk. It can be used for anything from
serves, through alignment of Indigenous
students and staff can gather and share
a class doing a guided meditation and
spirituality, knowledge and wisdom
opinions, knowledge and stories.
discussion, to a space where students can
with contemporary Catholic faith.
Ryan Catholic College, Kirwan always wanted to have a Yarning space at the
discuss their differences,” said Adam Weier (Deputy Principal – Mission and Culture).
It was a truly collaborative process as there was extensive community consultation,
College, so the school community was
It is not just staff who love this space and it
with advice and expertise provided by
very excited when the Yarning Garden
has been very popular amongst the student
traditional owners and artists, Mount Isa
was created on the senior campus three
body at the College. Brianna Cassady, a
City Council, and local garden landscaping
years ago. The design was developed
Year 10 Indigenous student said, “We love
experts. This, combined with the tireless
in consultation with a respected Elder,
the opportunity to have a special space
efforts of parents and volunteers from
Uncle Russ Butler, and the college’s
that ties us to our culture and heritage.
within the St Kieran’s Catholic School
Indigenous Education Advisory Committee.
I love the creativity and peacefulness. It
community, has seen the installation
It was important to ensure there were
helps people value culture, by listening
of a space of genuine connections.
30 seats to accommodate a class for
to dreamtime stories and conversations.
lessons, meditation and quiet reflection.
The rocks and trees together feel as if it
The space also contributed to the school’s
is a relaxing and calming environment .”
The garden is a place for the school to facilitate harmonious and collaborative ways of communicating through the yarning
Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), and is a
Another school who recently celebrated the
circle. The river bed separates the two
great example of Indigenous and non-
official opening of their sacred space and
distinct areas and symbolises a place of
Indigenous people working together.
reconciliation garden is St Kieran’s Catholic
gathering, prosperity for all people, the flow
The Yarning Garden is accessible by
School, Mount Isa. Earlier this term, the
of life, and the passage of time. Sometimes
the whole Senior campus and has
school welcomed the community to attend
the river is alive with water, plants, animals
been used for Religious Education, Art,
the official blessing of the space. The sacred
and insects. At other times it is dry and
Homeroom and Learning Enrichment
space and reconciliation garden is purpose
rocky as we wait for God’s nourishment.
classes. The Parish too has taken the
built for quiet reflection, spiritual awareness
The symbol of the cross in the space helps
community down there as the serenity and
and learning. It promotes the awareness
to connect the physical life on earth to the
spirituality of that space is very tangible.
of stillness in experiencing God through
spiritual journey towards knowing God.
both a Catholic and Indigenous context.
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LOVE OUR SPIRITUALITY
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LOVE OUR TEACHERS
Staff Profiles Kelvin De Waele SENIOR MANAGER – INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND SERVICES, TOWNSVILLE CATHOLIC EDUCATION OFFICE I was born and raised in Townsville. I attended James Cook University and completed a Bachelor of Arts in Political Economy and Philosophy. I went on to postgraduate study in Information
Bohle River, at the mouth in what is now the Townsville town common. My Great Grandmother Rose was of the stolen generation, coming from west of Townsville. My family totem is the Taipan. My Catholic identity and Aboriginal identity complement each other, I draw strength from both and I try to pass that on to others. I want to see the discussion about Aboriginal Culture move from a
Georgia McGrath
lesson in history, to a story of the now and into the future. Aboriginal Culture isn’t stuck in the past, it is alive and vibrant and important for all Australians to see, acknowledge and admire.
Technology, as well as a Diploma of
INDIGENOUS EDUCATION OFFICER, RYAN CATHOLIC COLLEGE, KIRWAN
Project Management and I have worked
My mob is Bidjara which is located in
in Education IT for a long time in primary,
Central Queensland. I am originally from
secondary, tertiary and post tertiary
Rockhampton, although I have grown
settings. I was a network engineer and
up in Townsville since I was about 4.
designed and built 3G wireless internet
Post high school graduation I took a
networks in Cameroon, Nigeria, and
year off and worked. I then applied
Australia. I am a proud Aboriginal man
and was successful for my job at Ryan
whose family has been in Townsville
Catholic College as an Indigenous
since the late 1870s, with my Grandfather
Education Officer! I feel so lucky to have
living his early life on the banks of the
this opportunity and I enjoy it so much because I now have a chance to give
Eileen Brown YEAR 5 AND INDIGENOUS EDUCATION TEACHER, H O LY S P I R I T C AT H O L I C SCHOOL, CRANBROOK
well as the incorporation of Indigenous culture and history in the school, is something that I am incredibly proud of. Education of this culture and knowledge is so important, as we must always remember our first nations people, and that history is helping us shape a better and more inclusive future. My future
I am a proud Torres Strait Island woman
goal is to become a role model for our
on my mother's side. My family comes
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
from Badu Island. I went to two primary
students, as well as be an effective,
schools - Kirwan Primary and Holy Spirit
nurturing and knowledgeable teacher.
Catholic School. I then continued on to St Margaret Mary’s College for my high school years. One of the main reasons I enjoy working at Holy Spirit is because of the community. The teachers, staff, students and families have all formed an incredible community that is supportive, caring and compassionate. The work done for our Indigenous students, as
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back and contribute to the community that I grew up in. I love spending time with kids and helping them learn and seeing them make progress in their learning. I think education is so important as it sets us up for challenges we will face in the future and motivates us in pursuing our passions. I believe having a chance to embrace and gain knowledge about our culture is equally as important. Having connections to culture creates a very strong sense of pride and contributes to us pushing to pursue our passions. I like to think I have impacted the college in a really positive way by sharing my love for my culture and giving our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a chance to learn about, embrace, celebrate and then share our culture.
S T M I C H A E L’ S C A T H O L I C S C H O O L , P A L M I S L A N D
Spotlight on Palm Island
LOVE OUR TEACHERS
Chad Friday T E A C H E R
AIDE
I am a Kuku Yalanji man and have lived on Palm Island my whole life. I enjoy my role as a Teacher Aide as it’s great to help the students get an education as they are needed to be the future leaders of Palm Island. All the students know my background and culture and I believe it is a great tool to help keep them learning. Being an Indigenous Teacher Aide is really important when teaching students on Palm Island as it has an impact not just on the students but also with the teachers. My mum Elsa, who is a smart and strong independent woman, continues to inspire me to keep going in my goal to be a great role model to the young students on Palm Island.
Michael Sibley
Jack Sibley
Rochelle Sibley
TEACHER AIDE
TEACHER AIDE
TEACHER AIDE
I enjoy working with students at St Michael’s
I have lived on Palm Island all my life and
My dad, Raymond who is a proud Kuku
Catholic School as they brighten my day
went to boarding school at St Teresa’s
Yalanji man has inspired me with the
and lift me up when I’m feeling down.
College, Abergowrie. I am always being
strength he shows. I have lived on Palm
Knowing life on Palm Island, as I have lived
asked by the students what it was like to
Island all my life and went to school
there my whole life, helps me in my role as
go to boarding school and I like talking
at St Michael’s and then to St Patrick’s
I can assist the teachers to understand the
to them about completing my secondary
College, Townsville for my secondary
students better. My current and future goals
schooling at St Teresa’s College. I enjoy
schooling. What I enjoy most about my
have been inspired by my dad, Raymond
being a role model to the students by
role is the different experiences and
Sibley to keep working hard and to try
being able to support them to get back on
challenges I get each year with the
other roles such as working in aged care.
track in the classroom, and helping them
different students that are in my class.
understand the importance of education and how it guides them along the right path. I am also inspired by the students to keep coming to work each day and to help them keep learning and stay on that right path needed to finish their education.
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LOVE OUR EDUCATION
Term 4 Dates First Day of Term 4 Tuesday 6 October National Water Week 19-25 October
Catholic Education Week 2 6 J U LY 1 AUGUST 2020 Catholic Education Week was held from 26 July to 1 August.
World Teachers’ Day Friday 30 October
During this week we celebrated our Spirit of Catholic Education Award nominees. These awards were initiated by the Queensland Catholic Education Commission to recognise people who are making an outstanding contribution within their Catholic
All Saints’ Day Sunday 1 November
school communities. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we were unable to celebrate our nominees in person, so we will be holding a special presentation to acknowledge our recipients in Term 4.
All Souls’ Day Monday 2 November Melbourne Cup Tuesday 3 November National Recycling Week 9-15 November Remembrance Day Wednesday 11 November Final Day for Year 12 Friday 20 November First Sunday of Advent Sunday 29 November Last Day of Term 4 Friday 4 December Feast of the Immaculate Conception Tuesday 8 December
Congratulations Lyn Ahern Marian Catholic School, Currajong
Naomi Mills St Francis School, Ayr
Peter Bates St Catherine's Catholic College, The Whitsundays
Christine O'Sullivan Columba Catholic College, Charters Towers
Jason Bennett St Joseph's Catholic School, The Strand
Kathy Park St Margaret Mary's College, Hyde Park
Helen Bus St Clare's Catholic School, Burdell
Mary-Ellen Pattinson Townsville Catholic Education Office
Wendy Cooke Ryan Catholic College, Kirwan
Tony Polga Burdekin Catholic High School, Ayr
Louise Fabbro St Colman's School, Home Hill
Ron Pugh Southern Cross Catholic College, Annandale
Geraldine Feaver Good Shepherd Catholic School, Rasmussen Dorothy Frew Good Shepherd Catholic College, Mount Isa
Christine Valentine Good Shepherd Catholic College, Mount Isa
Paula Henderson St Teresa's College, Abergowrie
Jacqueline Whalley St Benedict's Catholic School, Shaw
Barry Horner St Anthony's Catholic College, Deeragun
Robin Whitton St Mary's Catholic School, Bowen
Vicki Jago St Anthony's Catholic College, Deeragun
Patricia Widt St John Bosco Catholic School, Collinsville
Irma Lapico St Margaret Mary's College, Hyde Park
Sonia Wood Columba Catholic College, Charters Towers
Anita Livingston Ryan Catholic College, Kirwan Kirsten Logan Holy Spirit Catholic School, Cranbrook
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Melissa Siemer St Kieran's Catholic School, Mount Isa
Areti Danello & Debbie Watson (Operations team) St Francis School, Ayr
LOVE OUR NORTHERN SCHOOLS
St Teresa’s College, Abergowrie Eco warriors say: ‘We can for Baby Weka’ A group of budding Eco warriors have started recycling cans to raise money for the late Torres Weka’s unborn child. Students from St Teresa’s College, Abergowrie launched their campaign ‘We can for Baby Weka’ by decorating collection bins and placing them around their campus.
Speaking at the assembly launch of the campaign, Year 10 student Jaxon Schafer said, “As young First Nations people, we have a responsibility to care for country.
St Peter’s Catholic School, Halifax In Digital Technologies, all
We are all guests on this land. Warrgamay
classes have been looking at
land. We have to respect our own cultures,
‘Coding and Programming’.
and the traditional custodians of this land we all call home, by doing our bit. We are honoured to have Amy here today,
The Year 5/6 class have been completing programming activities from ‘Hour of Code’. Students independently
Popular musician Torres was a residential
our big brother Torres’ partner, and their
parent at the College’s boarding facility.
son – who will be born in October. Amy,
The 27-year-old was killed in a road
where each step required them to
thank you for coming, and as a college,
use different algorithms to program
accident while driving home to his
we offer you our deepest condolences for
objects to move and achieve a certain
pregnant partner Amy Barbi on Friday
the loss of our big brother Torres. He was
goal. Once students passed each
5 June, devastating the community.
one-of-a-kind and shined his light on all
level and completed the tutorial, they
Amy was invited to the school for the
those who were lucky enough to know him.
were able to make their own game
launch of the campaign. She said, ‘I am
Each one of us is blessed to have known
to share with others in the class.
so humbled and so grateful that they
such a joyful soul. We know Torres would
The Year 3/4 class have been
would do something like this. I can’t
be proud of what we are starting today.”
participating in ‘Kodable’, an easy and
find the words to say how I feel’.
Jaxon added that their biggest challenge
Students also plan to build a garden at the
is stopping contamination. It only takes
home Amy bought with Torres recently.
one person to put food or other waste in those bins, and the whole load will
The Ingham Disability Services support worker, who is due with the couple’s child in October, broke the news that she would
the school called ‘Courage to Care’, which focuses on environmental and social issues in the community.
work through different levels while completing and creating their own mazes. Some students are now exploring harder coding applications and challenging themselves in different
place cans and bottles in the bins.
programming activities in ‘Hour of Code’.
“Let’s make our brother Torres proud.
Prep to Year 2 students have been
‘We can – for Baby Weka’, said Jaxon.
engaging in a unit called, ‘Computer
A ‘Go fund me’ page launched by the school religious education programme at
experience. Through Kodable, they
our land. He asked for people to only
said. ‘I’ll call him TJ – for Torres Junior’. The recycling project is part of a
exciting way to begin their coding
get dumped into landfill destroying
name their baby after his late father. ‘We’ll call him Torres Eli Weka-Barbi,’ she
completed the step by step tutorial,
raised $2,600 for Amy, who now has to pay the couple’s mortgage on a single income.
Programming Toys’. One of the lessons was based on students building small objects or animals out of building blocks and using the iPad to photograph each step. They then needed to pass the iPad onto their partner and their partner needed to follow the steps to create the same model.
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LOVE OUR NORTHERN SCHOOLS
Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Ingham Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Ingham
and creative online performance by
celebrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Sah Ghee and Ethan Enoch-Barlow.
Islander Children’s Day in many ways.
Year 5 students discussed the history and
Year 1 students were busy learning
importance of this day before watching a
about weaving. This Aboriginal and
video by indigenous Australians explaining
Torres Strait Islander technique is used
how the day was meaningful to them. They
to express cultural identity and traditions
discussed the importance of culture for
that date back thousands of years. The
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Year 1 students gathered sticks from the
before engaging in a fun word find activity.
gardens of the school and used wool (instead of hair) to weave their designs.
Year 6 students interpreted all types of artworks and explored particular symbols
Year 2 students participated in celebrating
that represent different words or meanings
Aboriginal and Islander Children's Day
in Aboriginal Art. They then created their
on August 4 with Galbiri Voices, a fun
own artwork to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day.
LOVE OUR SOUTHERN SCHOOLS
St Catherine’s Catholic College, The Whitsundays Supporting Indigenous students to reach
The support officers also work with
their full potential is a high priority at
each individual to complete a Personal
St Catherine’s Catholic College, with
Learning Plan, where goals for the term
both the junior and senior campus
are set. Each student receives a 30
equipped with their own Indigenous
minute session per week to support
Education Support Officer.
their efforts in achieving their goal.
All students participate in a ‘Deadly
Other programs include celebrating
Homeroom’ on Thursday mornings.
NAIDOC and National Aboriginal and
This involves students taking part in a
Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day.
yarning circle, with some tucker and also
Check out the Rainbow Serpent that is
includes a group activity. The purpose
on display in front of our administration
of the homeroom is to provide an outlet
building if you are ever in town!
where students can build relationships in a safe space where all voices are heard.
St Mary’s Catholic School, Bowen The Year 2 class led the entire school in a
Fr Thomas, the Parish Priest prayed for
virtual liturgy to acknowledge NAIDOC Day
justice and forgiveness, as everyone
2020. The prayer leaders shared with the
progressed towards reconciliation. The
school community the significance of the
students processed with soil, as a symbol
NAIDOC theme “Always Was, Always Will
of this land, and water as a symbol of the
Be”, with the Indigenous cultures being this
seas and waterways, which help things
nation’s story, which began at the dawn
grow, and seeds to signify new life.
of time. We were reminded that the very first footprints on this continent were those belonging to the First Nations Peoples.
NAIDOC Day is always a big celebration at St Mary’s Catholic School and their hope is for all Australians to celebrate that we have the oldest continuing culture on the planet.
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LOVE OUR SOUTHERN SCHOOLS
St Francis School, Ayr WRITTEN BY INDIGENOUS SUPPORT OFFICER, NAOMI MILLS. It is a privilege to be working as the
A great asset to our school is adopting
Indigenous Support Officer at St Francis
a ranger from Gudjuda Reference Group
School. Sharing my cultural knowledge
Aboriginal Corporation, Senior Ranger
at the school is always well received. The
Mr James Gaston. Senior Ranger Jim
teachers, staff and students are respectful
visits our school upon request on special
and eager to listen and learn. The best
occasions and is always providing us
thing about my job is organising significant
with support and advice. It is good to see
Indigenous celebrations, and NAIDOC
that Indigenous culture is coming into
is my favourite, which we celebrated
the school as part of the curriculum. As
on Friday 26 June this year. On the day
an Indigenous person, our teaching and
you could hear and feel the buzz and
belief is strongly based around respect,
excitement throughout the school.
acknowledgement, sharing and giving.
St Colman’s School, Home Hill During Reconciliation Week, students at St Colman's School participated in prayer and meditation at the Gubulla Munda (snake). This was an opportunity for everyone to pause and reflect on the past. Students also participated in Indigenous art and craft activities in their classrooms. St Colman’s Playgroup children celebrated NAIDOC Week with an array of art activities. Decorating a boomerang and didgeridoo were definitely the highlights of their morning.
Burdekin Catholic High School, Ayr Burdekin Catholic High School celebrated NAIDOC Day on the first day of Term 3. The whole school participated in a liturgy led by the Indigenous students and launched the BCHS Acknowledgement of Country. These same students then worked with Year 7 students for an afternoon of activities designed to celebrate the culture of our First Australians. Students participated in events such as Gungu Art, weaving and the most important event of all, the Eda Cup.
19
LOVE OUR TOWNSVILLE SCHOOLS
St Benedict’s Catholic School, Shaw St Benedict’s Catholic School, Shaw has
St Benedict’s has also enjoyed an
enjoyed getting mostly back to normal this
Under 8’s Day with a Circus theme. The
term, and with a few modifications were
activities included making popcorn and
able to celebrate a number of events that
marshmallow cups, dress ups, an obstacle
might otherwise have been missed.
course and even a visit from WIN News
During St Benedict’s Feast Day, the
and Cowboys superstar, Matty Bowen.
school shared a liturgy, engaged in
St Benedict’s continues to engage in
activities to learn more about St Benedict
outdoor learning with plenty happening in
including learning about Benedict’s
the gardens, Billabong and Bush Tucker
first miracle where he fixed a broken
Trail. The students have thoroughly enjoyed
sieve as a young child. The Feast Day
the new Country Farm Playground.
concluded with a livestream of ‘Benny’s Got Talent’ which was very entertaining.
St Anthony’s Catholic College, Deeragun St Anthony's are very proud to celebrate the induction of two special young people as Indigenous Leaders in the college. Ethan Ive and Harriet Goodall, both Year 12 graduating seniors, set a confident example for their peers and embody the college's motto "Let Your Light Shine". After a widely received "You Can't Ask That" style video the pair contributed to last year, Ethan has been successful in gaining a school-based electrical apprenticeship while Harriet has gained early acceptance into CQUniversity, planning to undertake a Bachelor of Nursing. In addition, she speaks proudly about her experiences as a young Indigenous woman and has been invited to feature on the popular podcast "Tiddas 4 Tiddas". A hearty congratulations to Ethan and Harriet for all of their achievements thus far – we can't wait to see what the future holds for these, and all, of our Emerging Leaders!
Good Shepherd Catholic School, Rasmussen Students at Good Shepherd Catholic School participated in the Indigenous Literacy Foundation's Great Book Swap. Hundreds of books were donated to the school for students to purchase for a gold coin donation. Not only is this a great opportunity to promote reading within the Good Shepherd Catholic School community but it is also a great initiative to raise money for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation to assist in improving literacy levels in remote communities.
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LOVE OUR TOWNSVILLE SCHOOLS
Ryan Catholic College, Kirwan A small number of Ryan Catholic College
also log a minimum of 10 hours practical
students have become some of the first in
time flying RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft
the country to complete their Certificate
Systems) and performing set manoeuvres.
III in Aviation (Remote Pilot – Visual Line
Upon completion of the course, students
of Sight) at school. This certificate is VET
not only receive their Certificate III, but
in Schools funded and is being delivered
also attain an RePL (Remote Pilots License)
at the college in conjunction with Aviation
and AROC (Aeronautical Radio Operators
Australia (RTO No.30770) and Remote
Certificate) from the Civil Aviation Safety
Aviation Australia. During the course,
Authority (CASA). Students have just
students complete a number of theory
completed their practical assessment,
units including General Aeronautical
where representatives from Remote
Knowledge, Remote Aircraft Systems, Air
Aviation Australia flew from Brisbane to
Law and Flight Rules, Operational Planning,
assess them on their flying competencies.
Basic Meteorology, Human Performance
They all passed with flying colours and
and Aeronautical Radio. Students must
will soon receive their certificates.
Holy Spirit Catholic School, Cranbrook The Holy Spirit Catholic School, Cranbrook community is waiting with excitement for our very first order of Indigenous shirts to arrive. Our students organised a competition to design a shirt that could be worn on special occasions at our school. We were inundated with hundreds of entries, which made the choice extremely difficult. The creative art designs by all children were fantastic. A huge congratulations to our Year 6 winners of this design competition, Isabella Rose and Lachlan Wilkie. These two students cleverly used our Wulgurukaba totems, the brolga and white cockatoo in their shirt design.
St Joseph’s Catholic School, The Strand Year 3 have been exploring the importance of country and place to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People during their HASS lessons. They have examined the stories of our local Indigenous groups and have learnt about the important symbols of the shooting star for the Bindal People and the carpet snake for the Wulgurukaba People. Year 3 have been engaging with Dadirri to help explore connection to sacred places and they are looking forward to continuing this practice when they visit The Strand. As part of their unit of work, students have been discussing the importance of taking care of and looking after the land following in the Indigenous culture belief that if you look after the land, the land will look after you.
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LOVE OUR TOWNSVILLE SCHOOLS
St Margaret Mary’s College, Hyde Park POST-SCHOOL PATHWAYS
manager. Elisabeth sets a great example for young women working in a male-
Elisabeth Matters is a Torres Strait Islander
dominated industry as females currently
Emerging Leader at St Margaret Mary's
represent just one percent of those in
College, Hyde Park and one of the college's
construction. Leading by example through
Indigenous Awareness Leaders. After
the army cadets, sporting commitments and
a successful stint at Ausco Modular (a
now in her employment duties, Elisabeth
transportable hire and modular construction
demonstrates many of the St Margaret
company) through the college's work
Mary’s College Good Samaritan values of
experience program, Elisabeth was signed
listening, compassion, community, humility,
up to a School-Based Apprenticeship
and hospitality. Elisabeth has applied for
last November fulfilling her birthday wish.
this year's Queensland Training Awards
Working one day a week at Ausco this year,
and was recently interviewed for the
Elisabeth is well on her way to completing
School-Based Apprentice of the Year.
her Certificate III in Carpentry as a strong foundation for her plans to become a licenced builder and construction project
Townsville Catholic Education wishes Lizzie the best of luck! We are very proud of her trailblazing this post-school pathway.
Marian Catholic School, Currajong Marian Catholic School traditionally celebrates NAIDOC Week early in Term 3 and this year was no exception. The whole school gathered for a special NAIDOC liturgy in Week Four with a focus on Always Was, Always Will Be. After a number of students were presented with Reconciliation awards the school’s Torres Strait Island Dance group had their first performance for the year showcasing the songs and dances that they have been learning over recent months. Between morning tea and lunch the children joined in a range of games and activities that gave them a greater appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. By the end of the day the classrooms were adorned with leaves, drums and Dhari which the students had decorated.
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LOVE OUR WESTERN SCHOOLS
Good Shepherd Catholic College, Mount Isa This year due to COVID-19 restrictions
Indigenous themes or colours with a
NAIDOC week celebrations have
gold coin donation being gifted to the
been postponed. However in a spirit
Indigenous Literacy Foundation.
of resilience and within the Western Queensland COVID-19 requirements, Good Shepherd Catholic College NAIDOC celebrations went ahead. Students were encouraged to wear shirts with
STUDENTS WHO PARTICIPATED IN LITURGY Manu Faiva Performing ‘Welcome to Country’ Linkyn Macmillan Playing the didgeridoo Sean Murphy, Emy Hopkins, Rilee Webber
We started the morning off with a prerecorded liturgy devoted to the theme of Sacred Country being screened in homerooms.
Participating in the reading Ethan Quinlan Carrying bowl with dirt (representing earth) Henry Craigie Carrying leaves Sean Murphy and Anna Eggmolesse (IEW) Carrying the flags Elders and community members were invited to a morning tea in the library where information about the Good Shepherd Catholic College Reconciliation Action Plan and the Emerging Leaders Program was shared. During the day students participated in deadly Torres Strait Islander sit down dance/ move it mob style with Aunty Valerie Craigie and Jacob & Tutu from Mob FM, who had
Columba Catholic College, Charters Towers
the students showing how deadly they can move. The students totally enjoyed performing and singing Taba Naba. Our fabulous art teachers Alex Pallett and Saskia Brown facilitated the Chalk Art session
Having spent Term two with most of
students across the College. They will also
which had the students drawing Indigenous
the students at home online learning,
assist with the organisation of key events
art symbols to represent Sacred Spaces
it was wonderful to see everyone back
such as Sorry Day and NAIDOC week.
at Columba Catholic College and ready to start again in the classroom. As well as this, the school was also excited and proud to not only open their new Yarning
The College was delighted to announce that Moaranni Sam will fill this position for 2020.
and Places around the school grounds. We also had our deadly PE teachers out on the school oval facilitating the Indigenous Games. Students fully engaged with these energetic and skill building games.
Circle, but also to announce and induct
The Yarning Circle is nestled amongst
their first ever Indigenous Culture Prefect.
native trees at Mt Carmel Campus
and his helpers had students thinking on the
and is a sacred space for both staff,
spot regarding information about Indigenous
students and visitors to use.
Australia. The students and staff displayed
In this position, the Prefect will be a role model for the student body as well as promoting opportunities for Indigenous
We’re proud to celebrate our indigenous culture and spirit at Columba.
A Trivia rotation, run by Willie Morganson
their knowledge and also learnt much during the activity. During lunch breaks we also ran a touch football game and Lasharna Hegarty, one of our Emerging Leaders coordinated face painting. To end the celebration James Coghlan, our school Chaplain coordinated the cooking of a BBQ that fed the whole school. The day would not have been successful without the dedication of all our school staff, community members and Elders and the energetic participation of the students.
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“
WHEN WE HEAL OURSELVES, WE HEAL OUR ANCESTORS FROM WOUNDS THAT RUN DEEP IN OUR
family. humanity.
WHEN WE HEAL OUR ANCESTORS, WE HEAL THE WORLD FROM WOUNDS THAT RUN DEEP IN Dr Miriam-Rose
TS V. C AT H O L I C. E D U. AU