Programmes
An innovative programme engaging Aboriginal young people in a range of cultural activities and events aimed at improving community connection, school retention and providing vocational learning opportunities.
What's been going on
Aboriginal Education Pathways Awards: under the radar
28/06/11
Denise Markham pulled off a moving night for the presentation of the awards, in an event which was referred to in several speeches as ‘under the radar’.
This is a great shame—this needs to change! Because not only is it the kind of awards night that gives you goose bumps and giggles in one hit, but the young people and teachers receiving awards deserve wide community recognition for their achievements.
Students who successfully completed year 10 or 12 in 2010 were awarded; as were teachers who had made a special contribution to Aboriginal education.
There were also mums with bubs who were awarded for obtaining degrees; students from TAFE and the Central Coast Community College; the Freedom Riders, the developing artists from NAISDA and the students in Juvenile Justice who were unable to attend were warmly acknowledged.
The awards were complemented with two memorable performances. The first was by the Ganang Spirit Dancers out of Woy Woy. Denise said they’d wanted to perform seven dances, but only had time for three. Bummer! The second was by singer songwriter Alisha Pawley, who held everyone captivated with her cool, relaxed confidence.
And John Millard made a cameo--if you looked closely you could see him sifting behind the balloons--thanks for coming John we hope you enjoyed it!
The night had a swag of sponsors: TAFE, Newcastle Uni, NAISDA, Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council, youthconnections.com.au, the Central Coast Community College, Department of Education and Communities, DEEWR, Bendigo Bank, Catholic Education, Central Coast Regional AECG and Tony Simpson and Co Law Firm.
Michael and Stacey facilitated the night and did an awesome job; a big thanks also to the Pathways Committee, guests and students.
Re-tracing the original 2,300km journey made in 1965 through northwest and coastal NSW, the Freedom Ride 2011 will celebrate the significant impact this early expedition had on the identity of Aboriginal Australia and it's role as a forerunner for considerable changes to improving the quality of life for Aboriginal people.
Today the Government's commitment is to 'close the gap' between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. youthconnections.com.au in strong collaboration and consultation with Aboriginal communities has initiated the Freedom Ride 2011 to acknowledge the courage of our past, challenge the struggles of today and come together as one mob.
With a group of 30 Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, Koori Connect unit, youthconnections.com.au staff and Central Coast DET staff, the Freedom Ride 2011 bus will depart Sydney on the 12th February 2011, returning on the 26th February. Here is a map to follow our journey.
Sydney - Orange - Wellington - Dubbo - Gulargambone - Walgett - Collarenebri - Moree - Boggabilla - Warwick - Tenterfield - Glen Innes - Inverell - Grafton - Cabbage Tree Island - Lismore - Coffs Harbour - Bowraville - Kempsey - Taree - Newcastle - Sydney
Media Releases and Press Coverage
Central Coast Rides For National Freedom, November 2010
Freedom Ride article in the National Indigenous Times, Thursday 9th December, 2010.
Freedom Ride article in the The Koori Mail, Wednesday 17th November, 2010.
To find out more about Koori Connect please contact
I wish I’d been sitting with the NAISDA crew for the Aboriginal Education Pathways Awards—they had the rowdiest table and were definitely having the most fun!
