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Induction Group 45 visits Yiramalay

Lessons from Indigenous elders are an especially valuable part of the Induction program

The Induction program is a unique experiential learning program which brings together Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students to forge friendships and learn from one another at the Yiramalay/Wesley Studio School in Fitzroy Crossing, WA.

Pandemic-related travel restrictions have disrupted the Induction program schedule, so we were especially excited to see Induction Group 45 go ahead as the first Induction from Melbourne this year, in Term 2. Over three weeks, Induction Group 45 walked, ran, stumbled, rode, drove and laughed their way through the Kimberley on many different adventures. The daily swims and chatter around the waterholes consistently proved to be the perfect ice-breaker for the whole Induction group.

Visiting Jowie with Dillon Andrews, a Bunuba traditional owner, was a particular highlight for Year 11 Yiramalay/Wesley Studio School student Wayne Watts. ‘Dillon gave us a tour and told us about Jowie and where Jandamarra was running from the settlers and where he was hiding in a gap in the hill. I enjoyed the story about the ancestors that lived there. I felt special getting a chance to go to a sacred place and learning about the history,’ Wayne said.

While students enjoyed themselves, they were also able to see what a unique experience it was. ‘This program is one of a kind and gives a new meaning to experiential learning. It was an honour and a privilege to be accepted into Induction 45 and this unique experience is one that I’m sure none of us will ever forget,’ said St Kilda Road Year 10 student Laura Nayman.

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