On Thursday the 29th of August secondary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from across the Diocese of Wollongong gathered at The Pavilion in Kiama. This was for the Cultural Day that forms part of the Bangawarra Program.

The Bangawarra Program is a purposeful initiative created by the members of the Catholic Education Office, Diocese of Wollongong Aboriginal Education Team. This program has been designed with the intention of providing support, fostering meaningful engagement, and creating immersive experiences for secondary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students on their educational and cultural path. Through this program, we aim to empower students by nurturing their growth, building connections, and honouring their unique cultural identities.

Throughout the cultural day experience, students were immersed in culture through a smoking ceremony, cultural performances, keynote speakers, yarning, and cultural workshops, including; art, weaving, and Didgeridoo.

St. Francis Catholic College is proud to be an inclusive community where we learn about and embrace the culture of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.