Aquinas College celebrated NAIDOC Week with an enriching program of activities designed to engage students across all year levels.

In the Junior School, hip-hop dancing, Noongar language classes, bush tours, Indigenous art workshops and cultural dance sessions offered the students many opportunities to connect with the stories, traditions and perspectives of First Nations peoples.

In the Senior School, NAIDOC Week was marked by a program of cultural experiences including a spirited Didj Ball with students and staff, a themed lunch celebrating Indigenous flavours, Wargyl Wars competitions, and engaging art workshops. Guest speakers provided powerful insights into the history and impact of the Stolen Generations, fostering meaningful conversations. With music from Aboriginal musicians played throughout the breaks, including Archie Roach and Kevin Carmody, students were encouraged to reflect on the past, present and future of our nation, and to consider their role in walking the path of reconciliation.

The week culminated in a powerful whole-school assembly in the Br Paull Centre – a moving celebration of culture, connection and our shared journey toward reconciliation.

Indigenous students led with pride, performing traditional dances that honoured Country and conveyed sacred stories through movement. Among the highlights was a stirring recital by student Sachjein, who delivered Steven Oliver’s poem ‘I’m a Blackfella’ with boldness and heart. His performance was a moment of deep cultural strength and storytelling, prompting the entire College community to reflect on Australia’s past and present, and to embrace the call for meaningful change.

We were honoured to welcome back Old Aquinian Jiah Reidy (Class of 2016), who was introduced by Master of Ceremonies, Chayce. The first Captain of Boarding, Jiah spoke with honesty and pride about his Aboriginal heritage, encouraging students to see themselves as part of the solution and asking what kind of legacy we wish to be remembered for.

A beautiful five-panel Indigenous artwork was presented in parts as the 2025 Indigenous Education Awards. These were awarded to members of the Aquinas community who have made a lasting impact on Indigenous education at the College.

To close the assembly, our Schola Cantorum choir performed a breathtaking piece in language, filling the Br Paull Centre with the beauty and spirit of First Nations culture and reminding us all of the richness that lives in the oldest continuing culture on Earth.

NAIDOC Week at Aquinas is more than a celebration; it is an invitation to listen, learn and walk together in faith and solidarity and work together to make the world a better place.