Lakes Entrance Secondary College recently held a celebration to acknowledge three significant events: National Sorry Day, National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week.
Local primary schools also attended the celebration including Toorloo Arm, St Brendan’s, Lakes Entrance, Metung and Tambo Upper. There were many dignitaries from Aboriginal organisations and elders, as well as Victoria Police represented.
The students enjoyed the ceremony as well as a barbecue lunch and activities including weaving, face painting, boomerang painting, sand art, hair spray and braiding, nail art and keyring making.
Hugh Pepper emceed the event which included a profound and thought provoking Welcome to Country by Jedda Paton, a speech from school captain Jacqulyn Shankland and Koorie Engagement and Support Officer Lynette Solomon-Dent.
A special video of students from a variety of local schools singing I Am Australian was also a highlight.
College principal Craig Sutherland spoke of the significance of the day when everyone comes together during a time of reflection, truth-telling, learning and hope.
He emphasised each event carries a powerful message of healing, justice and strength.
“National Sorry Day reminds us of the grief, suffering and injustice experienced by the Stolen Generations, Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander children who were forcibly removed from their families,” Mr Sutherland said.
“It’s a day of mourning and a day of recognition. Recognition of the pain and resilience of survivors, and of our responsibility not to let the removal of children from their parents happen again.
“Sorry Day is not only about saying ‘sorry’ it’s also about backing our words with actions. We should listen, learn and support healing.
“Reconciliation Week follows directly after two key anniversaries, the 1967 Referendum and the 1992 Mabo Decision. These events were key steps on Australia’s reform journey.
“The theme this year, Bridging Now to Next, reflects the ongoing connection between past, present and future. It’s a call to action. Reconciliation isn’t a destination; it’s a journey we all walk together. Reconciliation means building relationships based on truth, respect and unity. It means acknowledging the wrongs of the past and committing to a future where there is equity and justice for all.
“During NAIDOC Week we honour the rich history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy, celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of young leaders, the vision of communities, and the legacy of ancestors.
“These three observances, Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week remind us that we all have a role to play. Whether we’re Indigenous or non-Indigenous, young or old, in schools, workplaces or communities, reconciliation lives in our actions and not just our words. Therefore, let us reflect, learn and, all stand together,” Mr Sutherland said.
