Clontarf academies across Australia marked National Reconciliation Week through a range of cultural activities, community events and partner visits.
At Gilmore Academy in Western Australia, academy members took part in a cultural event where they learnt and performed a traditional dance under the guidance of local Tim Kelly. The event gave the young men an opportunity to learn from local community members and take part in an important week on the school calendar.
The day also included a visit from Western Australian Premier the Hon. Roger Cook MLA, who spent time with the group and joined them for photos.
In South Australia, John Pirie Academy attended a Reconciliation Breakfast hosted by Clontarf partner SA Water. The event brought together community members, school representatives and local organisations to mark the week and hear from a range of speakers, including academy member Tye Lennon.
John Pirie Academy also welcomed BAE Systems for an after-school session focused on career pathways, industry opportunities and future employment. The visit gave academy members a chance to hear directly from industry representatives and ask questions about future options.
Reconciliation Week also provided an opportunity for senior Clontarf boys to attend the National Thiess Reconciliation Action Plan Launch, representing Clontarf as a valued partner of Thiess. A highlight of the event was Year 12 student Damo Behan, who delivered a powerful speech about his journey with Clontarf and the positive impact the Foundation has had on his education and personal growth. The event brought together Thiess leaders, industry representatives, educators and government stakeholders, providing a valuable opportunity to showcase the success of Clontarf young men and the strength of the partnership.
Across New South Wales, academies marked the week in a variety of ways.
Inverell Academy visited Nurture One George Street Daycare Centre, where academy members spent time with younger children, played the didgeridoo and taught emu and kangaroo dances.
Northlakes Academy proudly participated in a Reconciliation Walk alongside thousands of community members in a powerful show of unity and respect. A highlight of the day was seeing younger academy members perform in front of more than 3,000 people, showcasing their confidence, culture and leadership on a large stage
In Muswellbrook, academy members performed traditional dances at the NAIDOC Flag Raising Ceremony, representing their academy and school at a significant local event.
Singleton Academy attended the Singleton National Reconciliation Week Flag Raising Ceremony, with four young men representing both the academy and Singleton High School. Eden Fay delivered a speech on the theme of reconciliation and what it means to be “All In”.
Academy member Mason Carr also helped raise the Aboriginal flag alongside his Pop, Uncle Warren, during the ceremony.
Congratulations to all the young men who participated in events and activities during the week.
