Year 10 – Murgon-Cherbourg Immersion

The 2024 Murgon-Cherbourg Immersion provided students with a unique opportunity to connect with Indigenous culture, history and community while reflecting deeply on their own values and perspectives.

Cherbourg Ration Shed

The trip began with a visit to the Cherbourg Ration Shed, where students learned about the lasting impacts of protectionist policies on Indigenous communities. Jack described the experience as ‘eye-opening,’ sharing, “I found the trip to Cherbourg and St Joseph’s Murgon really impactful in its ability to convey the reality of intergenerational trauma—something you often hear about but don’t fully understand. The experience allowed me to truly acknowledge the ongoing effects of Colonisation.”

Lorenzo was similarly moved, stating, “I really thought before going to the Ration Shed that it was going to be another history lesson, but as soon as the Elder showed us the gruesome reality of what was happening… it became incredibly clear how protectionist policies led to such high rates of crime and poverty.”

Life at St Joseph’s Primary School

For four days, the students immersed themselves in life at St Joseph’s Primary School, sleeping on gym mats in the school library and taking part in the school’s daily routine. Despite the simplicity of their accommodations, the experience became a cherished highlight of the trip. Lucas reflected, “Even though we were sleeping on mats and spending our evenings in the library, it didn’t matter. Being together made everything special.”

Will added, “One thing that surprised me was how happy all the students were. Their energy and joy were infectious and it helped us stay positive throughout the trip.”

The group made regular trips to the local IGA for groceries, prepared dinners in cooking teams and spent evenings bonding over card and board games or sports in the schoolyard. These shared tasks and activities brought the group closer together, offering moments of reflection and strengthening their bonds.

Building Bonds at St Joseph’s Primary School

During the school day, students formed meaningful connections with the children at St Joseph’s through sports games, classroom activities and heartfelt conversations.

Thomas reflected on his bond with a young girl named June, “I met her at the start of the week. From helping her colour a Christmas card to building a LEGO farm together every day, our connection felt really special.”

Aarin shared a memorable moment during independent reading time, “A Year 2 student told me to sit next to him as he read, then handed me a second copy of the book so we could read together. That simple gesture showed the sense of community the kids have.”

Campbell recalled a deeply personal connection with a student named Shen’na, “She told me about struggling to make friends at her old school. It was humbling to hear her story and know she trusted me.”

Peter shared how meaningful the daily interactions were, “Playing handball with the kids every day after school created so many core memories. The excitement and competitiveness made every game special.”

These moments highlighted the openness and kindness of the St Joseph’s students, leaving a lasting impression on their visitors and fostering a profound sense of purpose.

A Day of Fun at Aussie World

Midway through the trip, the group joined the St Joseph’s students for a day of excitement at Aussie World. From rides to games, the shared laughter and joy made it a memorable highlight for everyone. Jack shared, “My favourite memory was having so many kids run to me to say goodbye as they left school in the afternoon. It was so touching and made me reconsider how much of an impact our actions can have.”

Lorenzo also reflected on the day, “It was fantastic to see how much the kids enjoyed every moment. Their smiles and energy reminded me that happiness isn’t about what you have but who you share your experiences with.”

Barambah Environmental Education Centre

The trip concluded with a visit to the Barambah Environmental Education Centre, where students learned about Indigenous tools, weapons and cultural practices. Campbell shared his excitement, “I really enjoyed learning and practising how to use the Indigenous tools and weapons. These tools were essential for Indigenous life and learning how to use them gave me a deeper understanding of their culture and way of life in Australia before colonisation.”

Will added, “Understanding the practicality of these tools gave me a whole new appreciation for how resourceful Indigenous Australians were and still are. It’s something I’ll carry with me.”

A Lasting Impact

The Murgon Immersion trip left students with memories and lessons that will stay with them for a lifetime. Lucas summed it up, “This was the best trip I’ve ever been on. I got a greater understanding of what it’s like to have a place in a community, where I could help out and put a smile on someone’s face, even if just for a brief moment.”

Peter added, “Hearing the kids’ stories and seeing their resilience taught me so much. I miss Murgon already.”

From the powerful stories at Cherbourg to the bonds formed at St Joseph’s and the cultural learning at Barambah, this trip was a testament to the power of connection, resilience and shared humanity.