A traditional hut built by Yuin Elders at Bermagui Public School is helping to create lasting connections to Culture and Country for local students on the NSW South Coast.
Yuin Elders Uncle Garry Campbell and Uncle Paul Campbell built the traditional structure with Stage 1 students in a hands-on project that gave the students an opportunity to learn about local Aboriginal Culture and traditions while creating a dedicated space for cultural learning within the school grounds.
The project saw the Elders construct the traditional hut using stringybark, collected by Forestry Corporation staff, from local State forests.
The hut became a focal point during Bermagui Public School's NAIDOC Week celebrations in July serving as a learning and art space and featuring prominently in the school's special NAIDOC assembly.
Bermagui Public School Year 1-2 Teacher Julia Loughran:
"The stringybark hut has become an important place for learning and sharing Culture at our school and will continue to be used for years to come," Ms Loughran said.
“It was also an important feature of the school's 150th anniversary celebrations on September 12 with students decorating the site and Uncle Garry and Uncle Paul displaying cultural artefacts alongside the hut to showcase local Yuin culture.”
Forestry Corporation Area Manager Trent Froud:
"It is fantastic to see local forest resources being used to create a place where students can learn directly from Yuin Elders and develop a deeper understanding of local Culture and traditions," Mr Froud said.
To find out more about Forestry Corporation’s cultural heritage and community activities go to www.forestrycorporation.com.au
Media enquiries