Tiwi Islands community welcome local students with open arms

TWO teens from the Bellarine have visited the Tiwi Islands, where they immersed themselves with the people and learnt about the culture.
Jolyon Simpson from Ocean Grove and Mathew Hartley from Barwon Heads, who both attend St Joseph’s College Geelong, joined eight other students, along with three teachers for the life changing experience earlier this year.
Student Connor O’Sullivan said as soon as they arrived, the students were welcomed into the community with open arms.
“We spent our time on the island wandering around the community, learning about Tiwi culture, especially different tribes, skin groups and dances, as well as some Tiwi history at the local museum.
“Singing and dancing with the elders, going to church, helping at the school and lots and lots of basketball.
“A highlight of the backend of the trip was meeting Tejinder Singh, 2017 Northern Territory representative in the Australian of the Year acknowledgements, who spends the last Sunday of each month traveling around the city feeding the homeless and hungry.
“His kindness and compassion was truly inspiring, not to mention his and his wife’s food was delicious.”
Connor said he was truly grateful for the opportunity they were given, and being able to see first-hand how the Tiwi Islanders live.
“We were welcomed graciously into their community, strengthened friendships within our group and even made new ones, as well as experiencing a new part of our beautiful country.” He implored anyone considering signing up for one of the school’s immersions to take the opportunity for an unforgettable and life changing experience.