Sharing Culture to Care for Country

Students from Streaky Bay Area School and Streaky Bay Children’s Centre recently participated in a series of ‘Caring for Country’ workshops facilitated by Warna Manda Aboriginal Women’s Corporation.

The cultural, classroom and outdoor workshops have been supported by Natural Resources Eyre Peninsula and funded through the Australian Government Targeted Areas Grants Program.

Primary school students were led by Wirangu Elders Veda Betts and Della Sansbury on excursion to Perlubie Beach, Eyre’s Waterhole and Smooth Pool.

Natural Resource Officer Libby Hunt said students were enraptured by the Elders’ stories.

“Students from the Children’s Centre learnt about the Wirangu people’s connection to Country at Sheoaks Beach.”

Students created collages, clay models and mobiles from natural materials, to depict what the landscape and life may have been like for the Wirangu Aboriginal Ancestors.

Warna-Manda Women's Aboriginal Corporation Cultural Instructor Susie Betts said the workshops promoted connections.

"It is important for all children to understand and learn Aboriginal people's survival and connection to "Warna" (Sea) and "Manda" (Earth), but most importantly their very own connection and the interconnectedness to Mother Nature."

Children’s Centre Managing Director Wendy Carcuro said Warna Manda is a fantastic opportunity for children to learn.

“It’s about respecting diversity and building a sense of belonging with people, country and community,” said Wendy.

To conclude the event students assisted the Elders to make ‘Fry Mai’, a flat bread, and watched it being traditionally cooked over hot coals. Lashings of butter, jam and vegemite ensured this treat was enjoyed by all.

For further information on Warna Manda Cultural Program please contact Susie Betts: 0467 207 807 or visit Natural Resources EP webpage: www.landscape.sa.gov.au/ep/projects-and-partners/NatureLinks-TAG