Reconciliation Week at Carmel: Building Bridges, Together

This year for National Reconciliation Week, the Carmel College community embraced the theme “Bridging Now to Next” by taking time to reflect, connect, and act.

Earlier in the week, all students and staff were invited to take part in a simple yet powerful activity in PC. Each person wrote two messages on a paper leaf—one starting with “Now I…” and the other with “Next I…”. The “Now” leaves were about what we understand or commit to today—things like “Now I listen” or “Now I know the truth.” The “Next” leaves shared our hopes and next steps—like “Next I will walk with others” or “Next I will stand up for justice.”

These leaves were displayed on a wooden bridge near the College office—turning it into a striking symbol of our shared journey toward truth and reconciliation.

On Thursday, we had the privilege of welcoming First Nations students from Star of the Sea and Bayview State School to join us for a special afternoon workshop. Set by the lake in our Yarning Circle, the afternoon brought together young voices and big hearts. The visiting students added their own “Now” and “Next” leaves to our bridge, making it even more meaningful. It became clear that this wasn’t just our journey—this was everyone’s journey.

Led by Carmel’s First Nations students and a team of supportive Year 12 leaders, the workshop included cultural storytelling, creating name cards, plaiting ribbon bracelets, and sharing laughter and yarns. Our guests were also joined by Aunty Bernice Fisher and Kim MacDonald—aunt, grandparent, and great-grandparent to several of the Star of the Sea students—who shared in the joy and significance of the occasion.

Here’s what Star of the Sea shared about the day:

“Sitting together in Carmel’s beautiful Yarning Circle, surrounded by nature and the spirit of connection, our students shared stories, laughter, and creativity... These leaves now decorate the bridge near Carmel’s office, a bridge that became more than just a structure—it became a symbol.”

The message on the bridge says it all:

“Building a Bridge… From Now to Next”

• NOW is knowing the truth
• NEXT is growing understanding
• NOW is listening deeply
• NEXT is walking together
• NOW is learning the past
• NEXT is living with respect

We’re proud of how our First Nations students and Year 12 Leaders welcomed our guests with warmth, respect and care. It was a beautiful reminder that reconciliation is more than just a word. It’s something we do. Together.

So, we ask our Carmel community: How can you help build this bridge?

Mrs Erin Hardy

Assistant Principal-Religious Education