Carmel College recently hosted with the support of Murri Ministry, a significant event to commemorate the Anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations. Joining people across Australia, we reflected on the pain endured by our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander brothers and sisters and reaffirmed our commitment to acknowledging the trauma caused by past policies of forced child removal and assimilation. 

We had the honour of welcoming First Nations and Torres Strait Islander peoples, along with representatives from thirteen Catholic schools, to share this meaningful day. The event began with a traditional smoking ceremony, a sacred cultural practice symbolising cleansing, protection, and connection to Country. After Aunty Sonja Carmichael did the Welcome to Country, Elders were presented with beautiful handmade corsages created by students from All Hallows’ School. 

Our First Nations students performed a traditional dance, showcasing their pride and connection to their heritage. The event continued with a procession of native flora, with one student from each school participating. This symbolised fostering a sense of belonging and community, our connection to Country, honouring our ancestral spirits, and our cultural continuity, where we preserve and pass on cultural traditions and knowledge to younger generations. 

Students participated in the liturgy and spoke beautifully, adding a reflective and meaningful moment to the morning. Moving speeches by Aunty Pauline Hannam, grandmother of past student Lila, and Eric Ellis from Brisbane Catholic Education were highlights of the day, shedding light on the impact of the Stolen Generations through their moving personal experiences. 

Following the liturgy, our guests enjoyed a lovely morning tea hosted by our hospitality students. The special menu featured food inspired by native flavors. 

All the school students participated in a cultural ‘Dance Off,’ impressing everyone with their eagerness to perform. As a sign of gratitude, our guests were presented with a native plant from Quandamooka Country to take back to their Country. The event was a beautiful celebration of respect, unity, and cultural connection, bringing together participating schools and members of the wider community.