For NAIDOC week the Kool Kids team thought it would be nice to invite our Switch Leaders to come together for a discussion about NAIDOC Week and its importance for Aboriginal people. We also talked about why it’s crucial we maintain the Aboriginal cultural traditions and celebrate NAIDOC every year.
We arrived at Mahon Pool in Maroubra and sat all together to do the Acknowledgement of Country, followed by damper and Ochre painting which was done by myself, Lauren and Daniel. We ran an afternoon activity around NAIDOC Week and Culture. The young people all listened and participated really well, answering questions and sharing their knowledge about NAIDOC.
The Switch Leaders ate sandwiches and damper before getting changed and going to the pool for an early morning swim. Even though the conditions were rough it still didn’t stop our saltwater kids from getting in and having fun. Lauren taught the young people about Ochre, the different types, how its variations are formed as well as showing them all the hidden ochre along Mahon Pool. The young people didn’t want to get out of the water which shows that strong connection they have with the land and ocean.
A big thank you to all the Kool Kids staff for their support throughout the program and also a massive thank you to Lauren Ella-Duncan & Daniel Daylight for coming to speak to the young people about the importance of our culture.
ALWAYS WAS, ALWAYS WILL BE ABORIGINAL LAND
“THROUGH THE MOTHER”
Written by Beau Foster | Kool Kids Activity Worker
