Bundjalung Dreaming at St Joseph’s Primary School, Alstonville

‘Bundjalung Dreaming’ at St Joseph's Primary, Alstonville, brought together students, staff, and local Indigenous leaders in a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and respect through a collaborative mural and picture book project. (18 October 2024)

St Joseph’s Primary School, Alstonville, came alive with excitement and pride as the community gathered for the launch of the highly anticipated ‘Bundjalung Dreaming’ book and mural. This wonderful event, made possible through the 2024 CSO Arts Partnership Grant, brought together students, staff, and local Indigenous leaders to celebrate a vibrant expression of culture, creativity, and respect for the land and its heritage.

The ‘Bundjalung Dreaming’ project began in Term 2, spearheaded by the school’s librarian, Rosalind Kingsford and Indigenous Education Worker, Victor Murgha. They were supported by local Indigenous elders and cultural representatives, ensuring that the project thoughtfully and respectfully acknowledged the Bundjalung people. The workshops centred on the Bundjalung language, led by Indigenous Language Expert Trudy Roberts, and introduced students from Kindergarten to Year 6 to the rich storytelling traditions of the Bundjalung nation.

Students had the privilege of learning the Bundjalung story ‘How the Birds Got Their Colours,’ delving into the significance of songlines and their deep connections to the land. After initial workshops, a select group of 29 students, including jarjums and non-Indigenous participants, continued with a series of focused workshops to further develop their language skills and cultural understanding. These students also collaborated with local Bundjalung artist Oral Laurie, who shared his artistic knowledge and painting techniques, guiding them in the creation of the stunning mural that now adorns the school entrance.

The community response has been nothing short of extraordinary. Feedback from parents and the broader Indigenous community highlighted the importance of the project in forging meaningful connections. Parents were moved by the joy and sense of pride their children experienced while working with cultural leaders and artists. Indigenous elders and representatives were particularly touched by the school’s dedication to honouring their heritage and fostering respect for the land, a value encapsulated in the Bundjalung word ‘gariima,’ meaning respect and care.

The highlight of the event was the official unveiling of the mural and the launch of the ‘Bundjalung Dreaming’ picture book. The students’ names, illustrations, and written contributions were a source of pride, with many describing the moment they saw their work in print as magical. The mural, painted by Oral Laurie and his father, Oral Senior, stands as a symbol of the collaborative spirit and respect that guided the project.

Though the first print run of the picture book has sold out, the school is preparing for another round due to overwhelming demand. Community members can contact St Joseph’s Primary School to register their interest in obtaining a copy.

Victor Murgha summed up the project’s importance: ‘The students in our school, especially the jarjums, must feel acknowledged. Projects like Bundjalung Dreaming teach us to respect our land and heritage. It’s not just about learning; it’s about creating our own songlines and sharing these stories with each other.’

As the event drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of achievement and unity. ‘Bundjalung Dreaming’ is more than just a creative arts project; it is a celebration of local Indigenous culture, a tribute to storytelling, and a bridge between generations that will continue to shape the students’ understanding of their place in this rich cultural landscape for years to come.