Day Three of the First Nations Leadership Program was a wonderful celebration of culture, learning, and leadership with primary school students from across the Great South Coast. The program, an initiative of the Koorie Engagement Support Officers (KESOs), creates culturally safe opportunities for young people to strengthen their identity, explore leadership, and build connections with community.
This workshop was made possible thanks to the dedication of our working group — Koorie Engagement Support Officers Robby Lowe, Steve Young, and Casey Harradine; founding principals Abby Madden and Denise Kelly; and Koorie Academy of Excellence Liaison Jess Chatfield. We also acknowledge the support of the Eastern Maar Traditional Owner Group, represented by Allan Miller, General Manager.
Our facilitators brought cultural knowledge and creativity to life:
Jess Chatfield, Worn Gundidj – Basket weaving
Bret Clark, Worn Gundidj – Culture and storytelling
Tracy Roach – Cultural art
We thank the schools who participated in this day of shared learning and leadership:
Warrnambool West Primary School, Warrnambool East Primary School, Warrnambool Primary School, Hawkesdale P–12 College, Grassmere Primary School, Koroit and District Primary School, Port Fairy Primary School, and Mortlake P–12 College.
Every student brought enthusiasm and energy to the day, and it was a joy to see them engaged with culture, community, and each other. We look forward to the end-of-year celebration, where the achievements of all participants will be recognised.
– Jindara Alberts, Project Officer
