BCE staff members took part in a unique ‘in country’ experience following Songlines of First Nations lives across the Kaurareg and Zenadth Kes region of the Torres Strait during the July school holidays.
Joining colleagues from the Cairns Diocese, Senior Manager - Education: Strategy, Policy & Innovation - Belinda Connolly, Education Officer - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement - Kevin Eastment, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Cultural Tutor - Brian Whap and Deputy Principal, Mary MacKillop College - Carly Richardson, spent six days listening to Traditional Owners and Elders’ wisdom and connecting to their ways of knowing, being, doing and valuing.
The Encounter In-Country Kaurareg experience was offered to staff as part of BCE’s ongoing commitment to working together with the First Nations peoples in healing, truth-telling and reconciliation.
Belinda Connolly said it was a transformative experience, both personally and professionally, which began with excitement, curiosity, and a touch of apprehension.
“By the end of the experience, I felt calm, transformed, and profoundly connected,” Belinda said.
“Initially, I believed I understood Torres Strait culture, but I quickly realised there was so much more beneath the surface. I felt deeply privileged by the trust Aunty Enid, Uncle Frank, and Aunty Ivy placed in me by sharing their stories.”
The team witnessed the educational experiences of students, learned of the challenges of maintaining lore, and were reminded of the lasting legacy of our shared history, marked by the impact of the Stolen Generation and the influence of multiculturalism.
“The winds of wisdom from the Elders left a lasting imprint, calling me to reflect, listen deeply, and take time to connect. The experience instilled in me a responsibility to share this learning and to encourage others to ‘come and see’,” Belinda said.
With a renewed understanding of culture, and a commitment to being part of change and truth-telling, Carly Richardson plans to integrate these learnings into her school environment to foster a more inclusive and respectful community.
“The knowledge gained from listening to Elders, and learning about their personal narratives, has given me a deeper understanding of leadership and humanity, which I will carry forward in my role within the BCE community,” Carly said.
“I learned about the power of story and truth-telling, which was both eye-opening and deeply moving. Understanding the importance of these narratives has given me a new perspective on how we can incorporate these elements into our educational context here at Mary MacKillop College.”
Head of Catholic Identity, Sharon O’Keeffe, said BCE is incredibly grateful to the Elders of Kaurareg and the Zenadth Kes for sharing their time and wisdom.
“This was the second year BCE staff have been invited to take part in the Encounter Kaurareg experience,” Sharon said.
“It is a unique opportunity for us to connect with the people, culture, history, and traditions of the Torres Strait Islands. Each of our staff members have returned with not only a deeper respect and understanding of First Nations culture, but also a desire to integrate these learnings into both their personal and professional lives. We extend our gratitude to Cairns Catholic Education for organising this enriching experience.”