National Reconciliation Week

National Reconciliation Week is a significant week for all Australians, as we come together to build upon relationships between the many different cultures that make up this great land. As always, it is very important that we pay our respects to Australia’s First Peoples. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples will this year commemorate two historic milestones – 50 years since the 1967 referendum, and 25 years since the Mabo decision.

The theme for 2017 National Reconciliation Week, ‘Let’s take the next steps’, is a challenge to all. It reminds us of the positive changes and progress made to date, and the persistence and courage of people working together. The unique partnership between Wesley College and the Bunuba people, and the establishment of the Yiramalay/Wesley Studio School, is an example that should be celebrated by all.

Across campus, Reconciliation Week commenced with a Reconciliation Breakfast in the Hartnell Dining Room at Glen Waverley. Murrundindi, Head Man of the Wurundjeri Clan of Melbourne was the guest speaker shared wise words with our audience. The breakfast was also enhanced through the display of some wonderful art work completed by students and music from a small component from the Soul Band.

At St Kilda Road, our Yiramalay students reunited with old friends made from the Yiramalay/Wesley Studio school program when they visited the campus last week as part of the Reconciliation Weekassembly. Students enjoyed a barbeque at the Smorgan Terrace before the assembly and played a game of basketball in the Games Hall.