THE Camden Haven Community of Public Schools (CHCOPS) commemorated 50 years of NAIDOC Week celebrations with a celebration at Kendall Public School (KPS) on Friday, 25 July.
Attending the event were staff and students from Camden Haven High School, Hannam Vale Public School (PS), Herons Creek PS, Kendall PS, Lake Cathie PS, Laurieton PS, Moorland PS and North Haven PS.
The annual event is supported by the Hastings Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG) and local Elders.
In support of this year’s NAIDOC Week theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy”, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students each invited a friend to join them to participate in a day of connection and culture.
The day’s proceedings commenced with Birpai Elder Uncle Bill O’Brien OAM performing a traditional smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country.
This was followed by addresses from North Haven PS student Sam, North Haven PS Principal Linda Xerri and Camden Haven High School student Kitty Miller.
An Aboriginal dance group next took centre stage, before the assembly concluded with a singing performance of “The Children Came Back” by Indigenous rapper Briggs, a sequel to the iconic Archie Roach song “They Took The Children Away”.
From here students rotated through a range of workshops designed to deepen their understanding of Aboriginal culture, including tool making, storytelling, language, dance, weaving, cooking, and sport.
Aboriginal student and dance group member Kenzley Greentree said she loved performing in front of her peers, as well as the opportunity to learn about and share aspects of her culture.
“I had such a fun day,” said Kenzley.
“I really enjoyed being a part of the dance group with my friends and I love learning and embracing my culture, especially with my friend Larni.”
Andrew Kuchlin, the Director of Educational Leadership of the Hastings Network of public schools, praised the collaborative efforts to celebrate culture and promote partnership among key stakeholders.
“Today is a fantastic celebration of Aboriginal culture being embedded into our education system,” Mr Kuchlin stated.
“We have a range of schools from across the Hastings Network, along with many local Aboriginal Elders who have come together in support of this wonderful event, immersing our students in culture.
“In addition the students are also learning about collaborating, working in partnership and sharing a really positive experience on a beautiful day at Kendall Public School.”
By Kim AMBROSE
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