A group of drama students, who collaborated with Aboriginal artists to create a theatre piece which portrays hope for reconciliation, have been awarded the top accolade at the 2018 PALS awards.
Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt presented the Newman College students, the Minister’s PALS Award at a ceremony held today at the Meeting Place in Yagan Square.
The Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries’ PALS (Partnership, Acceptance, Learning, Sharing) program encourages young people to learn more about our unique Aboriginal culture, and to be active participants in the reconciliation journey.
The students created and performed the piece ‘Koort Kadadjiny Kadidjiny’, which means Heart Learning, using Noongar language, original music, song, body percussion and movement, and digital projection of visual art to share a true cultural representation of Australia’s history.
This year, 665 projects from 620 primary and secondary schools across WA received PALS funding from the State Government – a record number since the program began in 2004.
A Noongar music program, Aboriginal art-inspired t-shirts, bush tucker walks and a girls football and wellbeing program were among some of the projects recognised.
The Minister presented awards to the following category award winners:
- Aboriginal Language and History (joint winner) – Baynton West Primary School (Karratha);
- Aboriginal Language and History (joint winner) – Gilmore College (Orelia);
- Arts and Culture – Newman College (Churchlands);
- Digital Technology – Bibra Lake Primary School (Bibra Lake);
- Environment – Ardross Primary School (Ardross);
- Health and Wellbeing – Northam Senior High School (Northam); and
- Student Engagement and Community Participation – Mater Dei College (Edgewater).
As noted by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt:
“The continuing success of the PALS program demonstrates the commitment of the school community in WA to embrace reconciliation and cultural diversity and inclusivity.
“I would like to congratulate schools from across WA that have participated in PALS for their efforts in undertaking educational projects that enhance the understanding of Aboriginal people, their history and culture.
“It is inspiring to acknowledge the work being done and to witness the significant commitment to the reconciliation journey led by our school community.”
