In honour of NAIDOC week, which officially happened during the holidays, we launched a very special initiative at Cape Byron, which is a Reconciliation Walk.
This is a permanent installation that recognised in images and short factual statements the process of settlement and the ongoing process of reconciliation. The installation, which is wrapped around the paperbark forest at the eastern side of the lower carpark, consists of nine wooden bollards. Each bollard tells two stories.
On one side – walking south to north, towards the neighbour’s fence – tells the story of settlement. On the other side – walking north to south, back towards the school – is the ongoing story of Reconciliation. The walk culminates with a call to action and asks all of us to consider our role in this important process.
The Reconciliation Walk is designed to provide a contemplative and informative space for students, staff and community members alike. It serves as a place to engage with Indigenous perspectives in a more embodied way. By walking the path of history, a deeper understanding of cause and effect can be realised. Critically, the planning process has involved consultation with the Arawkwal community. It necessarily addresses some themes that are troubling, challenging and complex.
We believe that these are necessary historical facts to acknowledge, and feel confident they are safe for children to be exposed to. Both high school and primary school faculties have also been consulted in the process.
At our special NAIDOC Assembly on Monday, Rikkara McGuiness, a highly regarded and beloved member of our community, joined us to launch the Reconciliation Walk for Classes 4 – 12.
Students across the school have created and designed the stunning images that accompany the factual words.
Walking south to north, away from School, tells the story of settlement.
Walking north to south, back towards the school – is the ongoing story of Reconciliation.
This is an important step in creating a hopeful narrative for Reconciliation that is aligned with the school’s vision, “to bring forth a strong moral compass, a hope-filled heart, appreciation for nature, and cherishment of all life.”
