Creating message sticks as a reflection on the colloquium experience.
Marist Educators gather on Dharawal Country to honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander spirituality, share wisdom, and walk together toward a more inclusive future.
The first-ever Marist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Colloquium took place from 2-4 April in Western Sydney, bringing together staff from across the Marist network. Hosted at John Therry Catholic College, Rosemeadow, and St Gregory’s College, Campbelltown, the event served as a platform for connection, cultural learning, and collaboration among those supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
Highlights of the colloquium included an immersive site visit to the Daramu and Mudjin Byala, First Nations youth services of Marist180 and engagement with the Jarara Cultural Centre team (Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese). The opportunity to interact with First Nations students from the host school communities, including learning the Unity Dance from the Year 11 boarders at St Gregory’s College, had a significant impact, with participants leaving inspired and energised to take their learnings back to their local communities.
Notably, the colloquium provided a unique voice for First Nations culture, story and spirituality within Marist schools, and began to explore the possibilities moving forward.
“I can’t wait to see what comes from this. What we can continue to share as a newly formed Marist community. ”
Colloquium participants being welcomed by students from John Therry Catholic College, Rosemeadow, performing the Lyrebird dance.
Colloquium participants with St Gregory’s College students learning the Unity Dance.
Colloquium participants with the Marist180 Daramu team.
With a strong sense of shared mission, participants left the colloquium energised and united in their commitment to shaping a more inclusive future.
Mission and Life Formation Team