In the lead up to Reconciliation week, year 8 students from Millicent High School have been working on developing their shared pride and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, culture and contribution. Teachers and students in collaboration with the school’s Aboriginal Support Officer, Jenny Bishop and the Wattle Range Council, are in the process of creating a Reconciliation design to be painted on the garden beds at the intersection of Davenport Street and Glen Street in Millicent.

“Students were invited to submit their design and explain their creative processes. They needed to consider reconciliation, the Boandik country and landscape, emotions and feelings, colours, symbols and their own experience in developing a shared pride for the cultures,” Millicent High School teacher, Fernanda Ikeda explained.

“There were 28 entries, five of which have been selected to be shared with the community. The symbolism of the designs draw inspiration from the local fauna and flora, the local people and how nature and humanity interact. Under the influence of Aunty Michelle and her workshops, students were able to express their creativity and pride through the designs they created.”

During Reconciliation week the students reflected on their own reconciliation journey, as well as acted on what they believe still needs improving to recognise the traditional owners of the land. Uncle Doug was invited to share stories and to celebrate the local Aboriginal people's accomplishments. Students headed outside towards the school’s ‘Aboriginal Sacred Garden’ to participate in a smoke ceremony and listen to stories from the Aboriginal Elder.

“The students reflected on the history of the Stolen Generations and have found that their design, once painted in the community, will be their way of saying sorry and celebrating with pride the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s contribution to our society,” Ms Ikeda said.

Wattle Range Council, Director Development Services Emma Clay is very excited to see this collaboration unfold: “we are grateful to be able to facilitate the display of this meaningful artwork in our community,” Ms Clay said.

“It is important for students to examine the indigenous culture and history of our region, and their studies culminating in a project that enables them to raise awareness in the community, whilst also beautifying the streetscape is a beneficial outcome for the town.”

The students’ designs are currently being further developed and will be installed in their new home in the coming months.