This year's NAIDOC theme, "For our Elders," serves as a guiding light for our community. It serves as a profound acknowledgment of the dedicated elders who tirelessly support the Yiramalay Studio School. These exceptional individuals hold pivotal roles not only within our Studio School but also in the wider community. Among them, we are privileged to count Alison Wunungmurra,Isaac Hale,June Oscar,Kaylene Marr,Marilyn Oscar,Ralph Green,Sandra Nuggett,Selina Middleton,and Jason Baird. These Elders have a wealth of knowledge and experience and are committed to passing on their culture and language to the next generation at the Studio School.
A Dive into Indigenous Culture
It was with a deep sense of respect and gratitude for our elders, we eagerly delved into the spirit of NAIDOC Week at Yiramalay in early August! It all culminated in a graduation ceremony for Induction 56 with 20 Wesley students from Melbourne and 9 Kimberley students. Through the week, we were fortunate to be part of a diverse range of workshops that deepened our experience of the land and Indigenous culture. Ivy Till orchestrated sessions, from crafting jewelry to tie-dying, silk painting, soap making, and even bush medicine was explored. Isaac Hale and our students returned from hunting and fishing adventures with wanjajirri and jarramba for our feast.
Alison showed students how to weave head pieces out of Ngiyali leaves and delicate desert rose flowers, and with their faces painted she guided our students into a flag dance. Lloyd Kwilla's spear making workshops had our boys engrossed in crafting their own unique artifacts.
Together with Selina, Isaac cooked up a magnificent feast that brought generations together. Elders, TOs, families from Fitzroy Crossing, students from Melbourne and the Kimberley and staff were all part of this heart warming celebration.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
As the graduation ceremony unfolded, we watched as certificates were handed out by Marilyn Oscar, Selina Middleton, Isaac Hale, Alison Wunungmurra and Alonzo Rogers and all listened to reflections from students and Elders, including Dr Helen Drennen and Kaylene Marr. And as the sun set on this special day, we indulged in a feast of Indigenous cuisine.
The NAIDOC theme "For Our Elders" came to life before our eyes, reminding us of the privilege we have to learn from our Bunuba elders on their ancestral lands. Together, we honour their past, embrace the present, and build a future grounded in tradition and respect.
We would like to acknowledge the NIAA for funding the NAIDOC celebration, and Year 12 Yiramalay student Shannon Smith-Haynes who allowed us to use her photographs that were part of her industry learning.