AYR STATE SCHOOL STUDENTS EMBRACE NAIDOC WEEK CELEBRATIONS

“Seeing our students proudly engage in NAIDOC celebrations is incredibly special,” Head of Curriculum Nikky Guilfoyle said. Photos: Facebook/Ayr State School

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The Ayr State School community joined the nation in celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture as NAIDOC Week arrived late last month.

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The celebrations, this year honouring five decades of NAIDOC, saw students and families gather at the school to recognise the history, culture and achievements of First Nations peoples.

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Attendees created Indigenous-inspired artworks and took part in hands-on damper making, before exploring one of the Gudjuda Rangers' research boats used to monitor and protect sea turtles.

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A kup murri lunch provided a unique taste of First Nations cuisine, with traditional dance performances and the singing of Taba Naba, a traditional song from the Torres Strait Islands, closing out the event.

Ayr State School Head of Curriculum Nikky Guilfoyle said the event was an opportunity for students to “develop a greater appreciation of culture.”

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“Seeing our students proudly engage in NAIDOC celebrations is incredibly special,” she said.

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“Through storytelling, art, dance and shared experiences, [the students] develop a greater appreciation of culture, identity and community while learning the importance of respect and inclusion.

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“These experiences help build understanding, strengthen relationships and ensure every student recognises the significance of Australia's First Nations cultures as an essential part of our shared story.”

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The school extended a “heartfelt thank you” to everyone involved in bringing the event to fruition.

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