Mathoura Public School students were immersed with authentic learning experiences last week when they took part in some early NAIDOC Week celebrations.
The whole school walked down to the beautiful bushlands near the Gulpa Creek Walking Trail, where local Aboriginal Elder Uncle Rick Ronnan opened the celebrations with a Welcome to Country before holding a traditional smoking ceremony for the students and staff.
After the official opening, students took part in a variety of activities including an artefact presentation, playing the didgeridoo, tapping clap sticks, Aboriginal dancing, creating artworks using charcoal, cooking damper over the campfire and observing wildlife.
Students also walked to a canoe tree located on the banks of the Gulpa Creek, where they learnt about bark canoes.
Mathoura Public School said it was extremely grateful for the ongoing support that Uncle Rick Ronnan continues to provide, educating students about local Aboriginal history and culture.
NAIDOC Week is being held from July 2 to July 9.