National Reconciliation Week at MLC

From 27 May to 3 June, MLC celebrated National Reconciliation Week – a time to reflect on our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to deepen our understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Our National Reconciliation Week program embraced a whole school approach, connecting students from Kindle to Senior School through a diverse range of activities and learning opportunities. 

Through thoughtful consultation with students, including the 2025 Reconciliation Prefect, families, and First Nations elders within our community, we collaborated to shape a program that respectfully and authentically embedded Indigenous perspectives across College life.

The result was a rich and diverse program of events that engaged students in historical, contemporary, political, artistic and sporting experiences. Guided by this years' theme, 'Bridging Now to Next', experiences explored core values such as courage, bravery, pride, connection and community. 

Program highlights

The week was filled with a variety of engaging events that sparked curiosity, reflection and celebration. Students participated in everything from cultural performances and storytelling to hands-on workshops and curriculum projects that brought Indigenous histories and stories to life.

Alongside assemblies in Junior School, Junior Secondary, Middle and Senior School, which featured performances by student dancers and presentations from First Nations peoples, highlights included:

• Cultural performances and visits from Pallyan and the Djirri Djirri Dancers
• Various art workshops led by Aunty Tarina Fanning, Bianca Easton, and our Reconciliation Prefect and Junior Secondary School Prefect
• Clapstick performances and storytelling about possum skin cloaks with Natashia Ellis-Corrigan
• Dance workshops with Thara Brown from the Ngargee Dance Group
• Cooking classes featuring Indigenous ingredients
• A ‘Wear it Yellow’ fundraising day supporting Children’s Ground
• Curriculum connections such as history assignments on the Aboriginal Rights Movement, and creative art inspired by First Nations artists and the theme of spirituality

Reconciliation AFL Match 

In the lead-up to Reconciliation Week, our Senior 1sts and 2nds took to the field for the Reconciliation AFL match against Genezzano. 

Our Senior 1sts proudly wore the MLC Indigenous guernsey, first unveiled in 2024. Designed by five students from Years 9 to 12, each element reflects their family totems and features meaningful Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander symbols. Earlier in the week, this year’s players received the guernseys during a special lunchtime presentation.

Before the first bounce, students, staff, families and Old Collegians gathered for an Acknowledgement to Country, as well as a ceremony featuring current MLC students. The rain did little to dampen the energy, with both players and spectators creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Both matches were played with heart. Our Senior 1sts took out the win, while the 2nds fought hard in a close contest, rounding out a day full of connection and school spirit.

Looking forward

National Reconciliation Week serves as a powerful reminder that reconciliation is an ongoing journey, requiring commitment, openness and respect every day. At MLC, we are proud to nurture a community that values learning from the past while building a more inclusive and connected future.

We remain dedicated to deepening our understanding, strengthening relationships, and embedding Indigenous perspectives across all aspects of College life.