Bradbury Preschool has long been committed to acknowledging, promoting and celebrating our First Nations histories, cultures and practices. To acknowledge NAIDOC 2024 week, we hosted an afternoon celebration that brought together local Elders, community groups, AECG members, schools, and connected early learning services.

The celebrations began with our children saying our Acknowledgment and singing songs they have learnt in Language thanks to our Gujaga Foundation language program. We were then honoured to have the girls from Airds High School perform a beautiful contemporary Aboriginal dance for us. Following, we had a range of experiences and activities for families and visitors to participate in. These included collaborative artworks with local Dharawal artist and Bradbury Preschool dad Michael Fardon, artifacts display and Fire Sticks discussions with Gundugnurra man Jim Halls, campfire cooking with buru (kangaroo) sausages and crocodile bites seasoned with native flavours, bush tucker talk and tasting tables, flag making, native seed planting, weaving station, games and so much more! Young Brax really lifted the atmosphere with his didgeridoo playing.

This was a beautiful afternoon of coming together, meaningful connection, celebrating culture and learning from each other. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making our afternoon an enjoyable experience for all involved. Special thanks to Natasha, Tiffany and the talented dancers from Airds High School – Official, Michael Fardon, and his amazing family, Aunty Carol, Chris Jim Halls, Mimo from Campbelltown City Council Bushcare and young Brax. We also extend our thanks to our visitors from Campbelltown Performing Arts High School, Leumeah High School, Bradbury Public School, Macarthur Preschool and Camden Family Day Care.

 

Story submitted by Jacqui Bail from Bradbury Preschool. Published in 2024.