28 May 2025
During our Reconciliation Week assembly, Ms. Marcelle and Cooper E. delivered a moving Acknowledgement of Country that included a personal reflection and the integration of Auslan, making their tribute both heartfelt and inclusive.
"Good morning, everyone. As we come together for this Reconciliation Week assembly, it is important that we begin by paying our respects to the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet today. To honour inclusion and reconciliation, one of our students, Cooper, will now help me begin this Acknowledgement using Auslan.” With confidence, Cooper signed the message, demonstrating the significance of accessibility and understanding.
The Acknowledgement continued, "We acknowledge the Traditional owners of this land and their connection to country. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and to their Elders past and present.”
Ms Marcelle took a moment to share her personal connection to the land, acknowledging the Awabakal people, the traditional custodians of her current home, and the Kamilaroi people, the country of her birth. She reflected on her roots, stating, “This day holds special meaning for me personally. My mum was born in Gunnedah and grew up in a tiny place called Emerald Hill — a place that now sits beneath Keepit Dam and later, with her family, moved to a small town called Breeza. The entire population of Breeza was home to her entire extended family, all related to us — some of whom were part of the Stolen Generations, removed from their families and communities.”
Her poignant words highlighted the stories of resilience, pain, strength, and survival that are intertwined with the land. "So, when I stand here and acknowledge Country, I do so not just as a teacher, but as someone with deep ties to this land and its stories," she expressed.
Mr Marcelle urged everyone to reflect on the stories shared, saying, "So, on National Sorry Day, let us reflect on those stories, listen with open hearts, and commit to learning from the past, so we can walk together toward a better future."
Uncle Darren and Mrs. Maher also shared their personal reflections on reconciliation, highlighting that it is an ongoing journey that requires us to open our hearts and minds. They emphasised the importance of seeking understanding and respect for our First Nations peoples and for one another as we move forward together.