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As NAIDOC Week approached, we were pleased to have our friend Paul from Mirri Mirri visit us again. NAIDOC Week is an annual celebration across Australia that recognises and celebrates the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The acronym NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee, which was once responsible for organising national activities during this week. Today, NAIDOC Week has grown into a nationwide celebration of Indigenous culture and history, with events taking place in schools, workplaces, and communities.
Mirri Mirri aims to create greater cultural awareness, so having Paul spend time with the kids and staff at Allowah during NAIDOC Week was really valuable. He shared stories from his heritage, offering insights into the traditions and customs of Aboriginal people. The children and staff were engaged by Paul’s storytelling, which brought to life the history and connection that Aboriginal people have with the land and their practices.
The Yidaki Demonstration
During his visit, Paul also demonstrated the techniques needed to play the yidaki, commonly known as the didgeridoo. Many of us were very familiar with the deep, rumbling sound it creates, but hadn’t before seen such a wonderful demonstration of how it all works. Paul got everyone involved as he explained how the sounds are produced and the significance of the instrument historically and culturally.
A Lesson in Listening and Understanding
One of the key messages from Paul’s visit was the importance of listening to and learning from people of different cultures. He emphasised that understanding and respecting diverse cultural backgrounds can foster greater empathy and encouraged everyone to be curious, ask questions and always listen. This lesson resonated with everyone at Allowah, highlighting the value of cultural diversity and its role in enriching our lives and community.
Fun and Learning Through Cultural Engagement
Paul’s ability to connect with the children through music and storytelling creates an inclusive environment. The children had fun dancing to the music, feeling the vibrations created by the instrument and even joining in with percussion. These activities were a wonderful way for the children to be involved and included in this celebration of the cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Continuing the Journey
At Allowah, we are committed to continuing our journey of cultural engagement and education – to keep listening, learning and growing in our understanding and appreciation. We are grateful for Paul and his son Kai for visiting us, and for those who helped organise and facilitate the incursion.
For more information about Mirri Mirri and their work in promoting Aboriginal culture, please visit their website at www.mirrimirri.com.au.
Allowah is a Dharug word which can be translated as ‘Come, sit here with me.’ We are situated on land with which the Burramattagal people of the Dharug nation have an enduring and deep connection. They have been custodians of this land for innumerable generations. We pay our respect to their people and elders, past, present, and emerging.
