From the Dean of Identity and Community
Though it began as a day of mourning in 1938, it was decided that we are more than what has happened to us and the week has grown into a powerful national celebration of culture, achievement and community. Held annually from the first Sunday in July through to the following Sunday, NAIDOC Week provides all Australians with an opportunity to recognise, celebrate and learn from the rich histories, cultures and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This year’s theme, 50 Years of Deadly, marks the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week in its current form. It is a milestone that invites us to reflect on the many achievements and successes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, while also acknowledging the challenges and struggles that have shaped the journey. Reaching this significant moment has required strength, resilience and determination from generations of people who refused to be silenced. It celebrates the organisers, artists, activists, Elders and communities who have carried NAIDOC forward for five decades, ensuring it remains grounded in culture, community and connection.
As one of the College's proud Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Officer’s, NAIDOC Week is always one of the highlights of my year. It is a time when we pause as a community to celebrate the richness of the world's oldest continuing cultures, acknowledge the wisdom and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and continue our shared journey of listening, learning and walking together in the spirit of Reconciliation.
We were honoured to welcome two outstanding First Nations community leaders and sporting role models, Bo De La Cruz-Maclean, a proud Gudjala and Erubian woman, and Willie Tonga, a proud Wiradjuri man to St Laurence's College. Bo is a dual International Touch Football and Rugby 7's World Cup representative, Touch Football Hall of Fame inductee, 2003 NAIDOC Sportsperson of the Year, sports broadcaster, coach, podcast host, businesswoman and mother of three. Willie is a former NRL premiership winner, Queensland Maroons and Australian Kangaroos representative who played more than 200 games at the highest level of rugby league. Both Bo and Willie are passionate about mentoring young people, strengthening communities and sharing their stories with the next generation.
Our Yuuingan Yari students were privileged to spend time with Bo and Willie during an exclusive meet and greet, engaging in meaningful conversations about culture, identity, belonging and becoming the very best version of themselves. Through sharing the wisdom from their own journeys, both guests left our students with a simple but powerful message: be proud of who you are, work hard, aim high and never stop learning.
One of the most memorable moments of the day was our Live Yarn, where Bo and Willie sat alongside our Yuuingan Yari students to share stories and answer thoughtful questions. There is something deeply significant about yarning. It creates space for genuine listening, respectful conversation and learning through relationship. Watching our students engage so openly and respectfully reminded me that some of the most important lessons in life are not taught in a classroom; they are shared through stories, experiences and connection.
Our commitment to reconciliation extends far beyond NAIDOC Week. Just recently, our staff had the privilege of participating in an Indigenous art workshop and yarning session with Uncle Arthur Conlon. It was a powerful opportunity to deepen our understanding of culture, reflect on our own stories and consider how we continue creating a College where every young person feels seen, heard and valued.
That journey has already begun to take shape in a very visible way. This week, our Yuuingan Yari students worked alongside Uncle Arthur to commence the creation of our own College Yarning Circle through the painting of a beautiful mural. A Yarning Circle is far more than a physical space; it is a place of connection, storytelling, reflection and belonging. It is where relationships are strengthened, knowledge is shared across generations and every voice is valued. I have no doubt this space will become a treasured part of St Laurence's College and a lasting symbol of our commitment to reconciliation.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to Bo and Willie for the generosity with which they shared their stories, to Uncle Arthur for his wisdom and guidance, and to our Yuuingan Yari students for the pride and leadership they continue to show. Seeing our young men embrace culture with such authenticity fills me with great hope. It reminds us that reconciliation is built one conversation, one relationship and one shared story at a time.
While NAIDOC Week provides a dedicated opportunity to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and achievements, at St Laurence’s College our commitment to recognising, valuing and strengthening community extends far beyond a single week. Together, we continue to celebrate culture, connection and the strength of community every day.
In respect and reconciliation,
Ms Peta Johns
Live Jesus in our Hearts. . . Forever!
MR LACHLAN HESHUSIUS
Dean of Identity and Community