Respect, reflection & unity

STUDENTS, staff, families, and community members from Grant High School, Mount Gambier High School, and Mount Gambier North Primary School gathered for a powerful and uplifting National Reconciliation Week event last week, embracing this year’s theme: “All In.”

The afternoon began with a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country led by Uncle Ken, setting the tone of respect, reflection, and unity.

Grant High School principal Caroline Davey welcomed the community, reinforcing the importance of honouring stories, culture and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and the critical role these gatherings play in building understanding across generations.

Special addresses were delivered by Clare Feszczak, Department for Education SA’s Executive Director, Student Pathways and Careers, and Lauren Letton, Board Member from Reconciliation South Australia. Both highlighted the ongoing journey of truth-telling, meaningful dialogue, and the shared commitment required by all Australians for reconciliation to succeed.

Formalities concluded with the rhythm and tone of the Yikadi (Didjeridu) played by Nathan Watson from Deadly Didge, and accompanied by his sons, Lukas and Cooper, using traditional tools as clapsticks.

Distinguished attendees included:

• Karen Turnbull (Deputy Mayor, District Council of Grant)

• Lynette Martin (Mayor, City of Mount Gambier)

• Josh Lynagh (Deputy Mayor, City of Mount Gambier)

• Travis Fatchen (Independent for Mount Gambier)

• Darren Humphrys (Executive Director, Support and Inclusion, Department for Education SA)

• School and community leaders.

Guests enjoyed student project displays, an Indigenous-inspired afternoon tea by Blissful Bites, and a community BBQ—opportunities for connection, conversation, and celebrating the contributions of young people and their growing passion for reconciliation.

Mount Gambier High School principal Kym Grant reflected on the event’s success.

“Community collaboration is at the heart of meaningful reconciliation,” Mr Grant said. “Coming together for Reconciliation Week with Grant High School and Mount Gambier North Primary School allowed us to celebrate culture, share stories, and ensure our students of all backgrounds are empowered as leaders in this journey.

“‘All In’ calls each of us to take action, today and every day, as we walk side by side towards a more respectful, connected future for our region.”

Nigel Brito, Education Director for Blue Lake, attended and supported the event.

“It’s great to see the community of Mount Gambier attending Grant Highschool to support National Reconciliation Week,” he said. “National Reconciliation Week is a key national event recognising the importance of building positive relationships, acknowledging the past, and moving positively towards the future.

“I’d also like to acknowledge the support of the central office of the Department for Education, who highly values and encourages these types of activities across the state. I value to partnership and collaboration between these three schools and look forward to many more events in the future.”

Grant High School principal Caroline Davey said one of the most powerful aspects of the event was seeing people from across our community gathered together in the same space.

“Students, families, educators and community members shared in a meaningful experience that celebrated culture, encouraged conversation and strengthened the connections that bring us together,” she said.

The event encapsulated the spirit of “All In”—reminding all present that reconciliation belongs to everyone, and that by stepping up together, real, lasting change is possible.