Principal's Post

In 1987 I was 10. The Blues won a premiership. I had a brown plastic football that broke my toe. And Midnight Oil released “Beds are burning” - the theme song for Reconciliation week (27^th May to3^rd June). I played the film clip to students and staff across the week. Peter Garrett’s dancing brought various reactions – mostly joy, some confusion. Interestingly, many students had this song on their playlist. We used this song as an opening for dialogue. 

The theme for Reconciliation Week this year was “All in”. “All in” means choosing to listen, learn, respect and walk together. This connects strongly with our 2026 Theme of Gentleness. Gentleness calls us to make a deliberate decision to pause. To listen to the stories of another; and recognise the dignity and value behind these revelations. God is within that interaction.

I was privileged to attend an Immersion to Cape York in 2024; living amongst local First Nation communities. 15 students participated in this immersion last year – they brought back stories that inspired the next round. We have another 15 excited Year 9 students getting ready for their experience in July. The conversations around the fire are remarkable.

Our students participate directly in First Nations studies in year 7 and 8 – they have many questions that we explore together. All subjects have First Nations perspectives embedded within the Australian curriculum. I love the website called Australians together- worth a look.  National reconciliation week begins with National Sorry Day and leads into NAIDOC week. Do you remember Kevin Rudd’s apology on behalf of the Nation? It was 18 years ago. I encourage you to visit the sites below to explore your own curiosities.

When I was 10, I learnt very little about First Nations culture and history. I was taught a lot about the First Fleet. I can still recall the shanties sung within the colonies of Botany Bay. Only in adult life have I explored, and been exposed to, knowledge surrounding First Nations people. And I am the better for it. Yet I do not know so much - this much I do know. 

I encourage you to rock out to Midnight Oil. Sing along. Have a dance.

Pro Deo Semper.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejorQVy3m8E

https://australianstogether.org.au/

https://www.reconciliation.org.au/

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