Connection forms the basis of our Connecting Countries program. We focus on healing generations through connection.
In December 2022 we welcomed Maitland Grossmann High to the experience and recognised the return of Rutherford High School. Based on relationship-building and knowledge-sharing, the three-day program was strongly supported by Elders and facilitators with a vast knowledge of culture, sacred sites and tradition.
On the first day, we spent the morning focussing on ‘tool making.’ We did this by sourcing the right trees to make a range of coolamons, clap sticks, boomerangs and spears. We then spent the afternoon hunting in the shallows of the ocean for fish and stingray.
On the second day, we explored Middens at Dark Point, followed by an Aboriginal Dance on the sand in the afternoon. Being close to the water is integral to Aboriginal people of Awabakal and Worimi; and so it was a significant day for the young boys attending the program.
On the third and final day, we focussed on Wonnarua country and visiting the caves to see artwork of an important figure, Baiame, the creator and sky father. The caves located in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range features an artwork of a male figure with their arms outstretched.
All attendees felt the program was beneficial for the relationships they made as they immersed themselves in culture.
We thank nib health for funding the program, the dedication of Elders, the local community, and Miyumba in sharing their local knowledge of Wonnarua, Awabakal and Worimi land. Huge thanks to the Department of Education for the collaboration and getting their young people involved.
