Celebrating Aboriginal culture in Derby for Reconciliation Week
Students at Holy Rosary School in Derby
The Holy Rosary School in Derby has created an inclusive garden space for students to come together to learn Aboriginal history, local language and cultural stories while sustainably growing their own bush food and vegetables.
The school set out to achieve this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme “Be Brave. Make Change” by creating the interactive learning space with the help of a $6,500 grant from Water Corporation and Lions Club of Broome.
Water Corporation North West Regional Manager Sharon Broad said helping young people develop a connection to Country and an understanding of Aboriginal culture was integral to ensuring important stories are passed down between generations.
“I commend Holy Rosary on creating this wonderful space for students to learn about their Country while building an appreciation of nature and understanding the rich history of their ancestors,” Mrs Broad said.
“It’s great to see the school using this initiative to grow local bush foods and vegetables, further promoting healthy eating habits and promoting general health and wellbeing of the Derby community.”
Holy Rosary School Principal Steve Dowie said he was delighted to have such a valuable resource added to the school.
“Our school community is thrilled with the addition of our outdoor garden which has created a warm and inviting space for Derby youth to learn on Country,” Mr Dowie said.
“Creating a safe, interactive learning environment has significantly improved our Aboriginal Studies and Language Program, which covers local history, culture art and language (Nyikina).
“Keeping our students in touch with the local culture is so important to us, and we’d like to thank Water Corporation and Lions Club of Broome for giving our project a kick-start.”
Kimberley community grants are available to not-for-profit organisations and schools for projects that support and empower people and communities in the Kimberley.
Round nine of the Kimberley Community Grants Scheme will open in mid-2023. To find out more, visit watercorporation.com.au/kcgrants
Media contact:
Eva Buckley
Senior Advisor - Customer & Stakeholder
P: (08) 9420 2085
E: Eva.Buckley@watercorporation.com.au
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