Assistant Principal - Mission

Yarning Circle Opening

Last Friday morning staff, students and parents came together for the official opening and blessing of our school's new Yarning Circle. This momentous occasion brought together our school community to celebrate and honor the rich Indigenous culture of our local Gumbaynggirr people. Central to the opening ceremony was the blessing performed by Father Michael (and Zippy!). This blessing made the Yarning Circle holy and elevated it to a higher purpose, transforming it into a place that lifts people up and gives God praise.  

Local elders Uncle Ian Brown and Aunty Vicky Filewood played significant roles as well by leading the smoking and water ceremonies. The smoking ceremony cleansed our hearts and minds while the water ceremony reminded us of our Baptism and our belonging to this community.

The presence of many parents added to the significance of this occasion, as they joined us in celebrating our school's dedication to fostering a deep understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures as we work together towards reconciliation.

Throughout the project, there was extensive consultation and collaboration with the local Indigenous community, ensuring that the design and implementation of our Yarning Circle truly reflected their cultural values and traditions. The positioning of the Yarning Circle holds strategic significance, located in close proximity to both the St John Paul II bust and the College Chapel. This intentional placement creates a profound link between Catholic Tradition and Aboriginal spirituality, symbolizing the harmonious coexistence of these two rich cultural traditions. The Yarning Circle serves as a tangible representation of our commitment to honoring and integrating Indigenous perspectives within the fabric of our educational institution, fostering a deeper sense of reconciliation and shared spirituality among our school community.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the P & F and the Catholic Schools Office for providing the funds to make this project possible. We also wish to thank Father Michael, Uncle Ian Brown, and Aunty Vicki Filewood for their invaluable contributions to this special event. May the Yarning Circle serve as a constant reminder of our shared commitment to reconciliation, healing and unity.