The National Reconciliation Week 2022 theme, ‘Be Brave. Make Change’, is a challenge to all Australian individuals, families, communities, organisations and government to tackle the unfinished business of reconciliation.

Good Shepherd Lutheran College was keen to reflect on the theme and encourage the conversation within the GSLC Community.

For more than 25 years, National Reconciliation Week has been a time for all Australians to reflect on what they can do to advance the reconciliation of the nation.

For this purpose, students and staff engaged in a variety of experiences and activities to gain a deeper understanding about the shared histories, cultures, and achievements and to explore ways to contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.To reinforce awareness of the campaign and its purpose, students created ‘Walking Together’ banners, which were displayed throughout the campus, and enjoyed Indigenous-infused foods like Lemon Myrtle cookies.

During break time, footprints were drawn around campus to symbolise walking together, music by First Nation Peoples was played and photos were taken with friends.

College staff were treated to a variety of Indigenous foods, including Lilly Pilly Chilli Jam, Wattle Seed and Saltbush Damper, Bunya Nut Soup and Dooja Lime Cheesecake. With tastebuds alive to the new flavours, staff were also given a sample bag of dried, ground lemon myrtle, harvested from one of the numerous lemon myrtle trees on campus.

“While students engaged in a variety of experiences and activities throughout the week, assembly and Chapel was used to recognise and connect to the importance of National Reconciliation Week,” Sandy Hardy, head of middle years studies and Reconciliation Week coordinator, said. “We explained that change begins with brave actions in daily life – where people live, work, play and socialise.

“We encourage our students to take these actions to make change every day of the year, not just during National Reconciliation Week.

“The purpose of National Reconciliation Week was to encourage and inspire students and staff at Good Shepherd to contribute to a more reconciled nation. I hope that by engaging the college community with a variety of activities and experiences, we will enable this to occur.”