Red Earth Immersion

In the October school holidays, students from year 9, 10 and 11 travelled with Ms Dove and Ms Cleggett to Aboriginal homelands in remote Cape York. They were privileged to be able to spend time with Traditional Owners and learn about their culture and history. This opportunity was eagerly taken by our students who were keen to connect with Aboriginal culture and history in a way they have not previously been able to. As a Catholic College in the Marist tradition, it is important that we actively seek opportunities to engage in reconciliation, and to reach outward to individuals and groups so we can better understand them. Students have left this immersion with incredible memories about the strength and richness of Aboriginal culture, and are very grateful to the Traditional Owners for being willing to share their homelands and culture with them. 

STUDENT REFLECTIONS

The Cape York immersion was truly an amazing experience as we immersed ourselves in Aboriginal culture, away from the chaos of our everyday lives and it is something I would highly recommend to anyone. It was an important experience for me because I came away from the experience with a new outlook on life and a deeper appreciation for the culture and people in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. It was such a valuable experience in terms of the connections we made with the Traditional Owners and their families and the knowledge that they had to offer about the land. 

The Cape York Immersion was an incredibly beneficial experience, teaching me about the Indigenous culture and having me wanting to bring home these experiences and feelings. I went on the trip knowing 2 people and came out with 8 new friends who all made the experience so enjoyable. Together we learned about the importance of preserving the Indigenous culture and got to experience firsthand their traditions and practices, additionally, hearing about their experiences with the stolen generation. These stories are extremely valuable. Connecting that time in history with someone you know and someone who has welcomed you into their home shows you how much respect and forgiveness these people hold and the pride they have in their culture.