Walawaani njindiwan - Welcome everyone!

In what has turned out to be an ‘interesting’ term, Gooroon staff and students have been very active.

Prior to the lockdown, our dance troupes performed at several venues across the Shoalhaven including the Shoalhaven Community Pre-School and a wonderful visit to St Mary’s, Milton. Our students are so inspiring in the way that they have embraced the learning of culture and their willingness to share in this way. This is ably facilitated by Aunty Kate and Uncle Rory.

We welcome Aunty Chris Finney back to St John’s. Aunty Chris was instrumental in the formation of Gooroon, laying the foundations of educational support for our students. She has a great deal of cultural knowledge that is willingly shared with our school community and it is a privilege to have her back with us.

Work has continued on the Walawaani Garden at the front of the school. This garden has been planted with flowering natives and bush tucker species which will attract and sustain birds, make a visually attractive entrance to the school and provide some food for us at the same time. There is also a plan for the addition of artworks in the garden, so keep an eye out for those in the near future.

All of our AEA’s and Aunty Jo have been doing an amazing job in supporting the learning of students during the online learning phase. We understand the challenges of learning in this way and are here to help in a variety of ways. This assistance to students and families will continue for as long as required. 

Many of the tasks that we are all doing at the moment require us to sit in front of a screen for long periods of the day. It is very important to take regular breaks, away from the screen. One way to do this is to connect with nature in some way. We are so lucky to live in the Shoalhaven, truly, one of the most beautiful places in the world. With some sense of irony, I highly recommend a new program on the ABC as a source of inspiration in connecting to our environment. ‘Back to Nature’ is a journey through the Australian landscape and the unique stories of the land, deepening our connection with nature. It gives an insight into the connections of various Aboriginal peoples from around Australia with their unique landscapes. Well worth a look, despite the additional screen time involved! Click here to view. 

Mr David Muller

Gooroon Coordinator