here - Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Inc.

Transcription

issue 01, October 2014
Tracks2uni page 2
Explore university
in your living room
33
Unearthing
Indigenous Fashion
and Talent
In conversation with
Aaron Pedersen
page
46
page
18
“
The first step is to find
out what you are passionate about,
then find out how you can best be
supported to make it happen.
page
”
Kyle Vander Kuyp
Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Inc.
144 Westbourve Grove: PO Box 113, Northcote 3070 • p 03 9486 1599 /f: 03 9486 1577
design: sophie gaur
Koorie Year 12 Magazine is proudly produced by the Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Incorporated (VAEAI). In developing this magazine
VAEAI has been supported by our partners in Koorie Education, the Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD).
Selected text in this publication was reproduced by permission from Where to Now? 2014 Guide to the VCE, VCAL and Apprenticeships and Traineeships
© Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority 2014.
The VCAL handprint graphic is a registered trademark of the VCAA. Where to Now? was distributed to Victorian schools in June 2014 and is freely
available for download as a General Publication from the VCAA website (www.vcaa.vic.edu.au).
illustrations: dixon patten
cover image features 2013 koorie graduates alana ryan and jae crilly
Which
one
suits
you?
IN THIS ISSUE
A Message from the President of VAEAI
1
Tracks2uni: Explore University in Your Living Room2
Different Learning Pathways
10
Indigenous Fashion Unearthed
33
The First Koorie Statewide Year 12 Graduation 68
“I am
ered
empow le.”
eop
by our p
54 61-62 63-67 69-114
INTERVIEWS
Alana Ryan
Stacy Alsop
Professor Mark Rose
Kyle Vander Kuyp
Sophie Young Tyson Austin
Jirra Harvey
Andrew Jackomos
Rose Falla
Aaron Pedersen
Jade Solomon 4
9
16
18
20
26
31
36
42
46
58
Hurry! Send
us your deta
ils
before the 7 th
of November
!!
S T U D E N T in f o r m a ti o n Scholarships
Be a part of the Koorie Year 12 Book 2014
Student Support: Key Contacts in Koorie Education
2013 Koorie Year 12 Student Profiles from across Victoria
DEA102 Deakin University CRICOS Provider Code: 00113B
THE INSTITUTE OF KOORIE
EDUCATION: LEADING
PROVIDER OF INDIGENOUS
HIGHER EDUCATION
The Institute of Koorie Education offers world class higher education, research
opportunities and a responsive cultural experience for Indigenous students.
Community-based learning allows you to combine your family and community
obligations with study assisting you to achieve your educational and career
aspirations alongside your lifestyle and commitments.
Discover a world of opportunity at the Institute of Koorie Education.
Enrol now at deakin.edu.au/ike
A Message from
the President of VAEAI
decisions, decisions, decisions . . .
You have just picked up a copy of VAEAI’s first ever Pathways Koorie Magazine.
This magazine is about your life as a Koorie student in school and your life
after school. It is a magazine for every Koorie secondary school student who
has been asked “What do you think you will do when you finish school?” I’m
tipping that’s most of you!
It takes time to work out what direction you want to take. What you should
know is there are more options available to you now than ever before. Each
year more Koorie students are finishing Year 12, and entering into university,
traineeships, apprenticeships and employment.
I went to school at Nathalia High School, near Cummeragunja, in the 1960s.
I loved school, I loved learning and being around my sisters and brothers,
cousins and friends. In those days it was very rare for an Aboriginal person
to complete Year 12. Although I would have loved to stay in school, it was not
financially realistic at the time - so I left in Year 11. Now I find myself studying
for a Bachelor of Early Childhood, many years later!
VAEAI monitors the numbers of Koorie
students who are completing VCE and
VCAL annually, and we have been noticing
a trend: the number of Koorie Year 12
graduates keeps climbing. In 2013, a total
When I was in school most Aboriginal people were encouraged to finish school
early and look for stable employment, that was the done thing. Today is very
different, there is not just one done thing for Koorie people, there are many
different study and career pathways.
This magazine explores some of those pathways through interviews, articles
and student profiles written by Koorie Year 12 students themselves.
We hope you enjoy the Koorie Pathways Magazine for 2014.
Stay strong in your culture, strong in yourself, and follow the pathway to your
dream career!
of 384 Koorie students graduated from Year
12 in Victoria: 319 from government schools,
28 from Catholic schools and 37 from
Independent schools. This is a record high.
Geraldine Atkinson
Koorie Pathways Magazine • Issue 01, 2014
1
Exploring University in Your Living Room.
Does University seem like a strange and
unfamiliar place to you? Don’t let that put you off!
Going to University could be the best time of your
life and can lead you to a deadly career of your
choice!
You can take the first step to explore Victorian
universities at school, on the couch, or even in
bed by using the tracks2uni website.
Select your
interest areas
Let’s get
started
2
Like all the
study pathways you are
interested in
For more information visit
w w w.t ra c ks 2 un i .e d u .a u
tracks2uni was devised through the Toorong Marnong Accord, which is an agreement between VAEAI and the 9 Victorian
universities. The focus of the Agreement is on making university an friendlier place for Koories.
It is as simple as that!!
Good Luck with your studies!
Select the
location you
might like to
study at
Complete your
contact details so the
chosen universities
can get in touch with
you. Once you confirm
your contact details
you will also receive
a confirmation email
with a summary of
your interests.
Confirm your
choices
3
Alana’s Amazing ATAR
On Sunday December 15, 2013, Alana Ryan, a Koorie
(Wotjabaluk/Gunditjmara/Ngarrindjeri) Year 12 student
from Ballarat Clarendon College, received a call asking her to
be at school early on Monday. That kind of call might make a
lot of students nervous, but Alana was not in trouble.
End of year results were about to be released and Clarendon
College had an idea that Alana’s score would be good. So good
in fact the college wanted to take photos to mark the occasion.
You can imagine Alana would have been thinking before she
went to sleep, “I can rest easy, I must have done OK”.
Even that call from school probably did not prepare Alana for
the news that her Australian Tertiary Entrance Rank (ATAR)
was 99.25, putting her in the top one percent of high achievers
in Year 12 across Australia.
VAEAI talked to Alana about her amazing ATAR, her final
Year at school, and her plans for life after Year 12.
Congratulations on your ATAR score and for finishing
Year 12. Can you tell me what it was like for you getting
your results?
Pretty awesome. The score was higher than I expected, it
everything that I hoped for.
Your family must be very proud, what did they say?
Mum came running in the room when I got the results, and
she was really excited. They were all so excited for me, they
were really happy. My brother and sister were so proud of
me, my Dad bought me flowers.
How about your friends at school, what did they think?
They were pretty excited too. When I went into school,
everyone was sharing their results, most of my friends were
really happy with their results as well.
What did you study in Year 12?
English language, Global politics, Australian History,
Psychology, Philosophy, Further Maths last year.
4
. . . school has been really good to me,
it’s hard to imagine my life without it . . .
What were your favourite subjects?
Politics and Psychology.
You mentioned that your politics teacher Laura Brady
is one of your role models, can you tell me more about
her?
She is only young but she has achieved a lot for her age.
She really cares about all of her students, and is really
knowledgeable, and willing to share what she knows. You
can have big long chats with her about anything.
You were elected School Captain in your final year,
how did you balance your study with this extra
responsibility?
I found it was just all about managing my time. I used my
spares (free lessons) at school for School Captain activities.
Also I had to keep my priorities in check, if a SAC came up
I would focus on that. But I really enjoyed being the school
captain, I never saw it as an extra thing I had to do.
What kind of activities were you involved in as school
captain?
We had to run assembly every second week, we spoke at
our Founders’ Day service, we organised the Year 12 formal,
including food, decorations, venue. The theme of the formal
was Famous Figures. I went as George Washington.
Was that because of your interest in politics?
Yeah maybe. I also thought it was a cool costume that
would be fun. I found a red jacket and a wig. Some of the
other costumes were PacMan, Alice in Wonderland, Tarzan
and Jane, Mr Incredible, Indiana Jones… Also at our school
everyone gets their own hoodies in Year 12, so the Year
12 committee had to organise that. There was a stuff up
with the jumpers, they were the wrong sizes, and had to be
reprinted.
The next day was valedictory day, there was a formal
breakfast at the school, then every Year 12 had 30 seconds
to give a speech and thank everyone. Some of the speeches
were really emotional, and made you cry. Others were funny
stories.
Were you sad to finish school?
It is bitter sweet. I am really excited to finish school. But
school has been really good to me, it’s hard to imagine my
life without school. I don’t know what I will do with my time
now.
What are you planning on doing after Year 12?
I am off to do a Bachelor of Arts, (at the University of
Melbourne) and study history, sociology and politics.
Hopefully I will live in a college at uni. I have a few good
friends who live in residential at college, so there will be
familiar faces already.
And after your degree you mentioned a career in
International Relations or Teaching?
Yes, I am interested in both. Teaching has always been
an interest of mine. The teachers at Clarendon are pretty
fantastic.
Well you seem like a lovely person and we wish you all
the best with everything. And thanks for being on our
cover!
Thanks, thank you very much.
. . . as captains we had to
run assembly every second week,
we spoke at our Founders’ Day service,
we organised the Year 12 formal, including
food, decorations, venue. The theme of the
formal was ‘Famous Figures’.
I went as George Washington.
What was your graduation week like?
It was such a massive week, four days in a row of
celebrations, at the last school assembly we had silly
awards, like “selfie queen,” “most inappropriate car for their
size,” that is, tall person little car. On muck up day, the Year
12s covered the senior school offices in sticky notes.
5
Key pathways to Monash
Diploma of Tertiary
Studies (DoTS)
DoTS is an alternative entry pathway to
Monash. It is a one-year program that is
equivalent to the first year of a university
undergraduate course.
Successfully completing DoTS, with the
required average, allows you to enter
directly into the second year of a selected
range of Monash courses. DoTS provides
the choice, flexibility and support you
need for success at university. You will
begin studying towards your chosen degree
from day one, and have the flexibility to
choose a stream that interests you from
business, business administration,
education or nursing.
Unlike many other university courses, your
DoTS application is based on more than just
your Year 12 score, and takes into account
your life experience, drive, and desire to
succeed at university. This makes DoTS a
terrific option if you didn’t get the ATAR you
expected, or if you are looking to return to
university as a TAFE graduate or mature
aged student.
Entry requirements
To apply for DoTS you need to have:
completed Year 12 with an ATAR of
at least 50, or
completed a graded TAFE certificate
IV with a distinction (70%) average or
a graded TAFE diploma with a credit
(60%) average, and
ensure that you have met the English
and mathematics prerequisites, and
Indigenous programs
Monash is committed to increasing access and success
for Indigenous Australians.
The Indigenous Enabling
Program (IEP)
Indigenous Non-Award
Pathway (INAP)
The Indigenous Enabling Program is
designed for students whose ATAR score
falls below the minimum requirements for
entry to their preferred degree, and for
those who are seeking mature-age entry
and have not completed Year 12.
In this pathway we assist you to choose
and enrol in two first-year university units.
The program runs for one semester and
consists of three units of study and an
assisted tutorial program designed to
develop the study skills needed to enter
an undergraduate degree. This program is
ABSTUDY-approved for full-time students.
Successful completion of these two
units enables you to enrol in a Monash
undergraduate degree with credit for
these two units. We provide you with
a tutor for each of your units to help you
make a successful transition to university
study. INAP is also suitable for adults
returning to study.
If you successfully complete the Indigenous
Enabling Program you will then be able to
enrol in a Monash undergraduate degree.
For further information on admissions, pathways
and scholarships available at Monash University,
please contact the Indigenous Student
Recruitment Coordinator, Kristel Keleher
at [email protected] or 9905 8699.
For more information please visit:
monash.edu/study/life/indigenous
complete an online supplementary
form telling us why you want to study
at Monash.
Advice for students
A couple of words of advice I would give any future students are to be focused and determined. Be the best student you can be
now. Don’t wait until you get to uni, or don’t just do the minimum workload. If you start doing the hard work as soon as you can,
it would make everything following that so much easier and you can look back on all your hard work with pride.
6
Stephanie Lilardia Jane Briggs
Stephanie Briggs has a strong family
connection to Monash. Not only did her
mother study at the university, but one of the
Clayton campus’s residential halls is named
in honour of her great grandmother, Yorta
Yorta Elder and renowned community
activist, the late Geraldine Briggs AO.
But it wasn’t the family ties alone that
enticed Stephanie to study at Monash.
She is now studying a Bachelor of Arts,
focusing on Indigenous studies and
anthropology, having completed the
Indigenous Enabling Program, a onesemester course comprising two Monash
College units and one university-level unit.
As for the future, Stephanie has ambitious
achievements she wants to reach, if not
definite plans just yet.
“I was happy with the courses and units
provided… and I felt that I had support
to start and finish my studies from the
very beginning,” Stephanie says.
“I’d love to travel. And work in
Indigenous affairs. I look forward
to the time I will be able to help
my community and the wider
Indigenous communities with
what I have learnt in my time
at university.”
CRICOS provider: Monash University 00008C
“The program allowed me to enhance
my writing skills as well as get used to
the design of university and fully
prepare myself for it. During this
semester, I was able to move onto
campus with the aid of a scholarship.
Coming from a big family, moving away
from home really helped me focus on my
studies,” Stephanie explains.
7
SUPPORTED LEARNING
PATHWAYS FOR
KOORIE STUDENTS
Koorie
Specific
Programs
and Support
Credits
towards
University
degrees
A VARIETY OF
ENTRY LEVEL
PROGRAMS
• Community Services
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Primary Health (Koorie specific)
• Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy
• Trade Programs in Carpentry, Cabinet
Making, Automotive, Plumbing,
Electrical and Engineering
VCE/VCAL options also available
OUR KLO’S CAN
HELP YOU WITH:
Career
Pathways &
Scholarships
• Support in the enrolment process including
information about fee payments, concessions
and scholarships
• Developing an Individual Education and Pathway
Plan (IEPP) to assist students with career planning
• Choosing the right course to help you work
towards your career choice
• Assist with access to professional tutoring support
• Referrals to other support agencies
Secondary school students should contact the
Koorie Liaison Officer at your school and they will
organise a meeting with the South West TAFE Koorie
Liaison Officer. Any community member can contact
the Koorie Liaison Officers for guidance and support
about your education and training.
Contact the Koorie Liaison Officers at
South West TAFE on 1300 649 411
8
www.swtafe.vic.edu.au | 1300 648 911
Staci Alsop, 17 year old Yamaji woman : VCAL The Gordon Automotive Studies – Panels and Paint
Staci Alsop is currently enrolled with Geelong Technical Education Centre (GTEC) – a school with a difference. GTEC specialises
in VCAL with a focus on trades training - meaning students tick all the VCAL boxes and get trade skills to start apprenticeships
or to find work.
Why are you studying Panels and Paint?
Spray painting, or panel and paint if you want to get
down to specifics was the perfect course for Staci, as her
passion lies with the restoration of old cars. She also has
a passion for art and is developing new skills with acrylic
paints on canvas. Staci inherited her love of traditional
art from her paternal grandmother, a Yamaji woman
from Geraldton.“The best thing about studying paint and
panel is that there are heaps of jobs out there and I get
to work on my car. As long as people keep crashing and
scratching their cars, there will always be work,” Staci
comments. “This industry is really good for girls too. I
just get treated like any other worker or student in the
workshop and it’s great.”
For information on courses at the Gordon TAFE visit
www.thegordon.e du.a u
Why Study at The Gordon TAFE?
“The Gordon is perfect for me, study is really flexible,
they treat me like an adult and most importantly it’s
loads of fun. Knowing that you are learning a trade that
is useful and will ensure I get work is also great. Our
Aboriginal Liaison officer, Cathy May also makes being
at The Gordon even better. She treats us like family and I
know I can always talk to her whenever I need to.”
Staci comes to The Gordon three days a week for
practical classes and on Wednesday she is out working
with a local panel beater. This allows her to build her
skills and put them into practice in the workplace.
A message to Koorie Students
“For anyone trying to work out what they want to be,
I think you should do what you love and there will be
something out there for you.” Koorie Pathways Magazine • Issue 01, 2014
9
DIFFERENT
LEARNING PATHWAYS
(follow the lines to see where your path can take you)
VCE
VCAL
The VCE is made
up of usually
20-24 units; 90
different studies
available
Victorian Certificate
of Applied Learning
is for Literacy and
Numeracy Skills,
Industry Specific
Skills, Work Related
Skills, Personal
Development Skills
VET/Apprenticeships
& Traineeships
VCE VET, school-based
apprenticeship & traineeship,
or other VET Certificates
Training
(TAFE or School,
Industry, RTO,
ACE)
Completion
of VCE
Structured
Workplace
Learning
Completion
of VCAL
Employment/Apprenticeship/Traineeship Workplace Learning
TAFE Certificate II/III/IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma
University
for information about VCE, VET, VCAL, Apprenticeships and Traineeships, visit the VCAA guide, Where to Now?
www.vc a a .v i c .e du . a u/ D o c u me n ts /wtn /wh e re to n ow.p d f
10
Which one suits you?
WHAT IS THE VCE?
WHAT IS AN ATAR?
The Victorian Certificate of Education is the
qualification that most students in Victoria receive
when they satisfactorily finish Year 12.
The VCE offers a huge number of pathways if you’re
interested in further study or training at university or
TAFE, as well as to employment.
If you’re interested in university studies, you’ll need an
Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).
You can apply for ATAR once you’ve met the
requirements to get your VCE.
ATARs are calculated by the Victorian Tertiary
Admissions Centre (VTAC) using VCE study scores.
VCE is made up of 20 – 24 units taken over 2 years.
Jirra Moffat
Gunai Kurnai
VCE
Gippsland Grammar
Keisha Nash
Thursday Island
Torres Strait
VCE
Mornington Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12
English, Biology, Psychology
Your biggest challenge while studying
My biggest challenge whilst studying was to maintain my
motivation and keep focused. It can sometimes be tempting to
hang out with your friends and use technology, but by keeping
my goal in mind, I was able to overcome this challenge.
Your final year in three words
Challenging , Exciting, Aspirational!
A message to other Koorie students currently in
school
I would tell other Koorie students in school to never lose hope
or give up. If you have the dream, don’t let anyone tell you
that you cannot achieve that dream. As long as you can find
motivation, you can do anything.
Physical education and physics
Your biggest challenge while studying Balancing sports with studying
Your role model and why
My mother, as she is able to deal with anything that she faces And still have the strength to put others first and rise
above any challenges that are present.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next
Study at University
Exciting, Enriching, Challenging!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school
To keep going to class and don’t let anyone distract you.
11
WHAT IS VET?
Renni Cameron
Darwin
VCAL / VET Hospitality
Swan Hill College
VET is Vocational Education and Training, which means it is focused
on practical skills training for specific jobs.
You can include VET studies as part of your VCE or VCAL.
There are three ways to include VET as part of your VCE or VCAL.
Completing any of these ways will get you a certificate from the
registered training organization (RTO) as well as credit in the VCE.
1. VCE VET PROGRAMS
VCE VET students do vocational training programs as part of their
VCE or VCAL. Currently there are 22 VCE VET programs to choose
from. A booklet for each of the VCE VET programs is available on the
VCAA website at: vcaa.vic.edu.au
VCE VET units will contribute towards satisfactory completion of
your VCE or VCAL and also give you a qualification that is recognised
around Australia. VCE VET programs that have Units 3 and 4 can
be included in the calculation of the ATAR. If you are interested in
a particular area of work, ask your school about how a VCE VET
program in this area will contribute to your VCE or VCAL.
Dean Churchyett
Gunai
VCE
Sunbury College
I like all my subjects, but hospitality would have to be my
favourite!
Juggling my school work, while having a School based
Traineeship at the Commonwealth Bank for two years. It
taught me how to be organised.
I would like to go travelling in particular America, while
having a gap year. Hopefully will be employed by the CBA
full time. Also further my studies in the future in other areas.
Exhausting, Rewarding, Proud!
2. SCHOOL-BASED APPRENTICESHIPS OR TRAINEESHIPS
Physical Education was my favourite as I enjoy sport and I
was able to use the knowledge I attained in everyday life.
Your biggest challenge while studying Motivation and social life.
My mum, Sue, is definitely my role model. She is the
strongest person I know.
I want to go to university.
Awesome, Fun, The Best!
To keep going to class and don’t let anyone distract you.
12
School-based apprenticeships or traineeships are another way for
vocational training to contribute towards your VCE or VCAL. To become
an apprentice or trainee you have to be in paid work and sign a contract
of training, which must be registered with the Victorian Registration
and Qualifications Authority (VRQA).
Your VCE or VCAL program would then include:
• VCE or VCAL studies at school
• vocational training at an RTO, for example a TAFE institute
• part-time, paid work in the industry in which you are training.
There are many industries in which you can do a school-based or parttime apprenticeship or traineeship as part of your VCE or VCAL, including
agriculture, automotive, business, community services, engineering,
horticulture, hospitality, information technology, retail, and sport & recreation.
A school-based or part-time apprenticeship or traineeship qualification
contributes to satisfactory completion of the VCE or VCAL in the same
way that VCE VET programs do by giving credit at Units 1–4. Schoolbased apprenticeships or traineeships may contribute to the ATAR.
Ask your school how a school-based or part-time apprenticeship or
traineeship can be set up for you.
For more information on apprenticeships and traineeships, visit the DEECD website:
http://www.education.vic.gov.au/training/learners/apprentices/pages/default.aspx.
3. BLOCK CREDIT
If you are interested in doing a vocational training certificate that is
not available as a VCE VET program, it is possible you may be able to
count this training towards satisfactory completion of your VCE.
Nathan Krause
Wiradjuri
VCAL
Block credit is the name given to this arrangement. Ask your VET or
VCE coordinator for more information about the rules for block credit.
Wodonga Senior Secondary College
WHAT IS VCAL?
The VCAL is an alternative to the VCE, and a hands-on option for Year
11 and 12 students. The VCAL gives you:
•
•
•
•
practical work-related experience
employability skills
literacy and numeracy skills
personal skills that are important for life and work.
Annaleisha Daykin
Gumbainggir
VCAL
University of Ballarat
SMB Campus
VET Electro
Trying to keep motivated and complete work on time.
My family because they encouraged and supported me
Diesel Mechanic. Your final year in three words
Hard, Supporting, Encouraging!
Drama
Getting there. Sometimes catching up on work that I may
have missed – in order to hand it in on time
My nan – she is a strong woman, and always so very
supportive and she is always there when I need her.
Going onto uni either to extend on my interest of performing
arts or early years education.
Your final year in three words.
Challenging, Nervous, Positive!
A message to Koorie students currently in school
Take every opportunity you get to have a go and do your best.
Students who do the VCAL are likely to be interested in going on to
training at TAFE institutes, doing an apprenticeship, or getting a job
after completing school. Once you have completed your VCAL, you
will have knowledge and skills that are a useful preparation for a trade
or industry certificate.
The VCAL has three levels: Foundation, Intermediate and Senior. You
can start and complete your VCAL at the level that matches your
needs and abilities. Speak to your school if you need help with making
this choice.
The VCAL’s flexibility offers you a study program that suits your
interests and learning needs. You choose accredited modules and units
for each of the following compulsory strands:
• Literacy and Numeracy Skills
• Industry Specific Skills
• Work Related Skills
• Personal Development Skills.
source: where to now? (© 2014 vcaa) Koorie Pathways Magazine • Issue 01, 2014
13
Just received your ATAR score?
What now?
We have Indigenous student advisors ready to answer your call
1800 200 155
Free call from Mon 24th Nov to Mon 22rd Dec 2014
Between 8am and 6pm
If you would like to explore your course and career choice, try this animated website:
www.tracks2uni.edu.au
Jae C rilly
Gunditjmara / Yorta Yorta • VCAL | Reservoir High School
Community Recreation (Footy Focus) and Furniture Making
Staying at school until I finished year 12
Family - because they are always there for me
I would like to have a ‘gap year’ but I think I might do further studies.
Fast, Funny, Adventurous!
Parent/Guardian message
What I am most proud of is when you had a choice to drop out of Year
11 and you didn’t, but instead chose to complete Year 12, and that you
and you alone made that ultimate decision to stay; and I always had
faith that it would be the best decision you would make.
After attending an information session at La Trobe University in 2014, Jae Crilly has now applied for a Certificate IV
in Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management at La Trobe University. VAEAI asked Jae why he chose his course:
“...the cultural knowledge, the processes and legislation around it are all interesting to me”.
All the best with your studies Jae, and thanks for being on our cover!
Commitment to providing Indigenous Australians:
• study and employment opportunities; and
• hold events, at all campuses throughout the year,
to promote our culture and people.
OUR SERVICES
Indigenous Student Services
• Tutoring
• Academic Advice
• Scholarships/Bursaries
• Student Networks
• Computer Lab Access
• Cultural Activities
Study applications, either through VTAC/UAC or direct to the
University,
are strongly
encouraged
and considered
on toanthe
Study applications,
either
through VTAC/UAC
or direct
individual
University,basis.
are strongly encouraged and considered on an
individual basis.
Indigenous Employment
Seeks to establish the University as an Employer of Choice
for Indigenous Australian people.
You can register your expression of interest to receive
regular job vacancy information.
latrobe.edu.au/indigenous
CRICOS Provider 00115M
15
In 2008 VAEAI and the Vice Chancellors
of the 9 Victorian universities signed
the Toorong Marnong Accord, through
which the 9 universities agreed to work
together with VAEAI to improve access,
participation and course completion for
Koorie people.
Through the Toorong Marnong Accord
we have a commitment to put in front of
you the widest range of choices that are
available. The Accord builds upon the work
that VAEAI has been doing for decades,
working to make university a welcoming
and supportive environment for Koories.
If you want to know about education,
Professor Mark Rose is a good person to ask.
Ask the Professor
For over three decades Mark Rose has worked in
education, as a teacher, a Principal, an academic,
and now as Executive Director of Indigenous
Strategy at LaTrobe University.
Professor Rose is also Vice President of VAEAI.
We talked to Professor Rose about life after Year 12.
Professor Rose, what advice would you give to Koories who
are thinking about going to university?
Well the message I think is important is that there is a place
for everyone, if you are a Koorie student who wants to go to
university, you can get there.
Victoria is the state with the largest number of universities in
the nation. As a result each university has a different package of
offerings and one will be right for you.
The higher your ATAR naturally the more choices you have got,
which is good, but with the cooperation between universities with
the Toorong Marnong Accord there is a place waiting for you in a
Victorian university even if your ATAR is not as high as what you
would have hoped.
16
What advice would you give to a young Koorie student who
is just starting VCE/VET/VCAL?
This is a very special time of your life. There are the challenges
of exams and assignments – but it’s also a time where lifelong
friendships are often formed.
While there are many stresses on you around working out what
you want to do during and after Year 12 bear in mind you have
VAEAI and an Indigenous Higher Education workforce - we
have got your back. These support mechanisms, along with your
families, can help you find the right destination point for you.
Most of all we want you to follow your dreams. Your dreams
may not include a university at this time, but there will be some
time in your life where to take that next step you will need higher
education. There are many paths to university and we can also
help you with other pathway options including TAFE , private
providers and apprenticeships
What if you don’t get the ATAR that you were hoping for?
Over the two years of your VCE much of what you do will revolve
around getting an ATAR score. While a functional ATAR score
is most valuable in getting a wide range of course choices,
sometimes people exaggerate its importance. This can be to the
point where some students feel that the ATAR score defines who
they are - and of course this is not the case. The ATAR score is
like a cricket score, it depends on the day and the time that the
assessments were held, and there are of course environmental
impacts on that.
My key advice is that the important thing is not what your score
is but what you do with it. What matters is how you play it. The
ATAR score is whatever it is, so never lose sight of your dream
and we are here to invest in it.
Again, VAEAI Toorong Marnong and the Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander staff at all 9 universities have strategies to get
you where you want to go and we will assist you whatever
ATAR you get. My university La Trobe like other Victorian
universities see Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students as
a priority.
Mentoring - is it important for Koorie students?
Mentoring is very important. And in the Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander community in Victoria there are an abundance of
mentors that will work with you.
How can Koorie students connect with mentors?
There are programs that can help you to connect with mentors,
or you can also choose someone you admire, as a community
Koorie people are very generous with their time and their talents.
There is AIME, the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience
www.aime.org.au (see page 23 for more information about
AIME).
There is also the Koorie Academy of Excellence (KAE) in
the Northern Metropolitan Region of Melbourne. (for more
information about the KAE visit the VAEAI website www.vaeai.org.au).
There are a range of mentoring relationships available. Successful
mentoring rests on the quality of the relationship between you
and your mentor.
For Koorie people enrolling at university for the first time,
what support can they access to settle into their course?
VAEAI of course has always worked in this space;
Aboriginal people have been going to universities through
different programs for just over 4 decades.
Each university has specific Indigenous support mechanisms
in place. (See page 64 & 65 for Indigenous Support Units in
Universities).
Whatever course you choose there will be support that you can
access to make settling into university easier, and those supports
will follow you when you need them as your pursue you dreams.
Be inspired to make a difference.
Our University’s commitment is to offer a range of
courses to cater for your educational needs.
OUR PROGRAMS
Courses and degrees
La Trobe has a wide range of study
options that it offers, across its
campuses, in the areas of:
• Business, Economics, Law
• Education
• Health Sciences
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Science, Technology and Education
Aspire
La Trobe’s early admission program,
designed to reward Year 12
students who are making a difference
in the community - no matter how big
or small.
• Apply through VTAC/UAC or direct
to the University
VCE Plus
Exciting opportunity for high achieveing
VCE students to complete
first year University subjects and have
them recognised as part of your VCE.
• Early offers for your chosen course
• Boost your ATAR
• Gain University subject credits
• Study support, mentors and more
with our Enrichment Program
• Receive early offer with guaranteed
entry into selected courses
• Applications close 31 August
• Applications for 2015 VCE students
are now open
(late applications maybe considered)
For details about all courses and program available:
latrobe.edu.au
17
Kyle Vander Kuyp
There is a saying people sometimes use about
overcoming hardships: “I had to jump over a lot
of hurdles to get here”. The use of the hurdles to
describe something very challenging hits at a truth:
hurdling is damn hard work. Of all the events in
athletics, the hurdles is considered to be one of the
most complex and difficult. Why is this so? Well
hurdling demands the athlete combine the speed
of a sprinter, the grace of a dancer and the timing
of a master technician. Whoever excels in hurdles
at the elite level must be blessed both with talent
and with the capacity for extreme concentration
and discipline. Kyle Vander Kuyp is Australia’s
greatest ever hurdler and it therefore follows that
he is one of Australia’s greatest ever athletes. Kyle
is an Aboriginal man from the Woromi Tribe, North
18
Coast NSW, Yuin Tribe, South Coast NSW. Kyle
was adopted as a baby by the Vander Kuyp family.
VAEAI visited Kyle at Victoria Park, home of the
Collingwood Football Club Foundation and office
of AFL SportsReady. Nowadays Kyle isn’t hurdling,
today he mentors young Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander people and helps them to connect to
education and career pathways through sport.
It is not hard to talk to Kyle Vander Kuyp, he is the
sort of person who puts you at ease because he
seems very much at ease with himself. This quiet
self-confidence was not always there though, as
a young boy growing up in Melbourne’s Eastern
suburbs, in a school where he was the only
Aboriginal person, Kyle faced a lot of challenges.
AFL SportsReady delivers traineeships and education in a
wide range of fields nationally. The not for profit organisation,
where Kyle spends most of his time, has supported more than
11,000 young Australians gain the skills they need to develop
a successful career, with over 1,000 of them Indigenous. For
more information on AFL SportsReady and the benefits of a
traineeship, visit aflsportsready.com.au. It’s a great way for
young people to receive an income, learn new skills and open
doors to career opportunities.
Kyle tells us that being the only Aboriginal person in his
school was tough, and he experienced a lot of racism and
name-calling. His self-esteem was low as a result of the
race-based bullying that he went through. What helped Kyle
though was athletics. From finding something that he really
loved to do, Kyle was able to “construct a new identity for
myself, as Kyle the hurdler”.
Although Kyle’s parents were not athletic themselves, they
were very encouraging of his developing gifts, taking him to
all of his events and cheering him on.
“I joined Little Athletics when I was young and tried every
event. At the age of 10, I decided hurdles was what I really
liked doing. It was a good event with a technical challenge
and I could catch up on the guys that were a bit better than
me in the sprints. I was the Victorian State Champion at
primary school and that’s probably where I said Yep Mum,
this is what I want to do – I want to be a hurdler.”
To help with her son’s confidence and pride in his Aboriginal
identity Kyle’s Mum got in touch with AFL footballers Maurice
Rioli and Phil Egan. “That was a turning point, they told me I
was Aboriginal and I should be proud of that and I could do
anything.”
While Kyle was competing in events and refining his technique
as a hurdler, he was also studying and completed his Year 12
at Mulluana College (formerly Mitcham Technical School).
Kyle Vander Kuyp is so modest in the way he speaks about
his athletics career that when he starts talking about the
Commonwealth Games and the Olympics it almost comes
as a surprise.
“I still hold the Australian record for the fastest men’s 110m
hurdles (13.29 seconds at the 1995 World Championships).
At that World Champs, I came fifth in the final and the next
year I made an Olympic final (Atlanta) – so the mid-90s
was when I hit my best. I was able to win 12 national titles
spanning from 1992 through to 2006 – eight of those were
consecutive.”
What Kyle tells us is that when he started competing in
hurdles events at the international level he was a young
man amongst athletes who were much older. The respect
and acknowledgement of his fellow athletes throughout his
career in hurdles is something he is very proud of.
Like a lot of elite athletes, Kyle was very fussy about his routine
in preparing for events. He had to have his environment very
quiet and extremely neat to get into the right headspace in
the days leading up to competition.
As an adult Kyle was able to reconnect with his biological
family and discovered that he comes from a family who are
very gifted athletically.
“I discovered my biological grandfather was pretty tall and
very athletic. He was part of the Simon family and my
grandmother was a Stewart – both have a long history of
sporting talent. On the Stewart side are the Ella brothers
(Mark, Glen and Gary) who played for Australia and pretty
much changed the whole game of rugby union. They’re guys
that I looked up to as a young kid. When I found my family, I
found out they’re my first cousins!”
In his life after sport Kyle has devoted his career to mentoring
young Aboriginal people. It is immediately apparent that
he would be a great mentor, he has an amazing story, and
tells it in a way that is not intimidating. And what advice
does Kyle Vander Kuyp have today for young Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander people?
“The first step is to find out what you are passionate about,
then find out how you can best be supported to make it
happen. Be prepared to do all the work required, be patient
and stay focused. To be successful you have to surround
yourself around the right people.”
references
Additional material for this interview on Kyle Vander Kuyp was sourced from AFL
SportsReady and Beyond Blue.
http://www.aflsportsready.com.au/our-story/the-team/our-staff/national/444kyle-vander-kuyp
http://www.beyondblue.org.au/connect-with-others/ambassadors/ambassadorprofile/kyle-vander-kuyp
19
Like a lot of graduating Year 12s when Sophie
Young finished high school she wasn’t sure
what to do next. When Sophie’s mother
pointed out an ad in the paper for AFL
SportsReady traineeships, Sophie applied.
Traineeships are structured employment and
education programs that enable an individual
to gain a formal qualification and practical
work experience whilst being paid. Sophie
completed two traineeships through AFL
SportsReady and discovered that she loves
working with kids. Sophie is now studying
to be a primary school teacher and early
childhood educator and is employed in an Early
Childhood Centre.
Some Facts About Sophie:
• Sophie is Wurundjeri and is the granddaughter of
Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Joy Murphy
• Completed Year 12: Healesville High School in
2011
• Favourite subjects in high school: Health,
Outdoor Education, English, PE (prac).
• Currently studying: Bachelor of Education (Early
Childhood and Primary) at Australian Catholic
University.
20
VAEAI spoke to Sophie Young
Sophie how did you get involved with AFL SportsReady?
My Mum cut an article out of the local paper, I didn’t really
know what it was about, I just did it. I had an interview, and
was accepted into the program. As a first year trainee, I was
placed at Swimming Victoria. I had to move to Richmond
and lived with my Aunty and Uncle.
What was that like moving away from home?
It was fine, because I was staying with family. There were
things I missed, my boyfriend and my friends, but I went
home on the weekend.
I think moving away from home, even though I was with
family, made me more independent and I developed a great
relationship with my Aunty and Uncle. I’m very thankful for
their love and support throughout the year.
So how did the traineeship work?
In the first year I completed a Certificate III in Sport and
Recreation as a Community Development/Administration
Trainee at Swimming Victoria. Then I did another year,
where I studied for a Certificate IV in Sport Development as
a Sport/PE trainee at Mater Christi College in Belgrave.
What were some highlights of the traineeship?
I enjoyed the whole thing. Working at Swimming Victoria,
it is a State Sporting Body, and I worked in their Community
Development Programs, I worked on the Indigenous
Swimming Program and in the Disability Program, which
engages kids with a disability in swimming. I also worked
on reception and at our swimming championships, so I got
to do a range of things.
At Mater Christi College, I helped with PE, Outdoor Ed
and organised all of the interschool sports, I found I enjoy
working with younger students.
And now you are studying a Bachelor of Primary and Early
Childhood Education at ACU?
Yes I just completed the first semester, which has been
good. It has been pretty full on but will be worth it. I am
currently doing placement at an Early Childhood Centre
in Healesville, it is interesting to see how different centres
operate as I am currently employed at a different Early
Childhood Centre.
Kyle Vander Kuyp has been one of your mentors right? What
was that like?
It was amazing having Kyle as a mentor, he’s really
supportive. He was always emailing and calling to see how
I was. We still keep in touch and I seem to always see him
out and about when I’m with my Grandma.
What advice would you have for young Koories who are
considering a work placed traineeship?
Go for it!!! I had no idea what I was getting into, and I found
out what I want to do. You have to believe in yourself. I have
a lot more confidence in myself thanks to AFLSportsReady,
Swimming Victoria and Mater Christi. You never know
what you can achieve!
21
“Give it a go, you never
know where a traineeship
might take you.”
AARON DAvEY, ex AFL player
AFL SportsReady Project Officer - Indigenous Programs
AFL SportsReady has provided over 1000 young Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islanders with education and employment opportunities through a TRAINEEShIp
AS A TRAINEE, YOU WILL:
• Earn the national training wage while you learn
• Take the first steps of your career in an industry
of your choice
• Obtain on-the-job training and essential work
experience
• Complete a nationally recognised qualification
(Certificate II, III & IV)
• Guaranteed entry to our University partners +
course credit (Diploma)*
• Be supported every step of the way
INDIGENOUS TRAINEES WILL ALSO BENEFIT FROM:
• One-to-one Indigenous MENTORING
• LEADERShIp and cultural affirmation workshops
• GAThERINGS and Indigenous networks
• MOTIvATIONAL speakers
*Conditions apply, visit aflsportsready.com.au for more information
We have jobs in SpORT, BUSINESS, ARTS and the cREATIvE INDUSTRIES, FINANcE and EDUcATION.
Call (03) 8413 3500 or visit our website at aflsportsready.com.au
Check out our
new program
22
visit artsready.com.au
for more information.
Nada (centre) with mentees, at an RMIT Bundoora AIME program day.
australian indigenous
mentoring experience
In 2005, 25 Indigenous and non-Indigenous University
of Sydney students walked down to Alexandria Park
Community School in Redfern, Sydney. There they met with
25 Indigenous high school students. On that day, AIME was
born. Nine years later, we’re working with 3,500 Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander kids in all mainland states and
the ACT, and growing to 10,000 kids across Australia by
2018. In 2013 AIME worked with 275 Indigenous students
in Victoria from year 9 to12, across 48 secondary schools
and 202 University mentors form RMIT, Monash and
Federation Universities.
AIME pairs Indigenous high school students up with
university student mentors, to create a dynamic educational
program that is proven to support Indigenous students
through high school and into university, employment or
further education at the same rate as all Australian students.
AIME’s Program Manager at RMIT University, Nada
Aldobasic has been on a long and successful journey with
AIME. Nada began her journey as a mentee in the program,
and then became a mentor and now an AIME staff member.
When Nada is not working with AIME, she is volunteering
her time with the Victorian Youth Parliament, where she was
recently given the role of Victorian Youth Governor.
For more information about AIME, visit
www.aimementoring.com
This is what Nada has to say about her AIME journey:
I am a proud Indigenous young woman who grew up in
Dandenong and I have been a part of the AIME journey since it
began in Victoria. I came to the program as a mentee during my
final year of high school in 2010. Breaking the stereotype that I
was immersed in growing up, I finished year 12 and decided to
take the leap into University, the first in my family to do so. I went
on to study a Bachelor Of Criminal Justice at RMIT University
and made it my focus to ensure that other young Indigenous
people were exposed to the experiences that I was given during
my years at high school. Being given an opportunity to have an
AIME mentor, someone to walk alongside me in year 12 and to
have the support and belief of the Indigenous community that
AIME created in my school was what was needed to pave the
way. Whilst studying at university I put aside the notion of ‘too
much to handle’ and volunteered my time in community, which
included becoming an AIME mentor. I got to see what my mentor
experienced when he worked with me during high school; the
importance of not giving up and sticking by a young person,
being real and mostly being a role model that can stand tall in a
community, sit beside someone younger and help them up I see
AIME, as a program that provides a space for Indigenous students
from different schools and communities to come together, to
stand together as one community. A safe space to stand up and
be proud, through understanding who has come before us and our
role now as young people to stand together and move forward.
23
We Interrupt this magazine
to bring you an important
message on attendance.
So you
don’t think
you are
missing
much
school?
24
You are only
missing.
That equals. . .
Which is . . .
and over 13 years of
schooling that’s...
1 day / fortnight
20 Days / year
4 weeks / year
Nearly 1.5 years
1 day / week
40 Days / year
8 weeks / year
Over 2.5 years
2 days / week
80 Days / year
16 weeks / year
Over 5 years
3 days / week
120 Days / year
24 weeks / year
Nearly 8 years
missing 1 day week of school means
you missed over 2.5 years of school
time over 13 years!!
Remember ~ Every Day Counts!
25
Talking with Tyson Austin
Tyson Austin is
a 22 year old
Gunditjmara/
WembaWemba
man who is majoring
in Media Studies
Tyson has worked on community radio since
he was 12 years old, presenting on 3KND (the
Koorie community radio station) about sport.
Tyson is not afraid to use the media to impose his
Collingwood biased views on the public.
Tyson also promotes the Fitzroy Stars football
team on social media.
VAEAI talked to Tyson about his time in school,
Uni life, and his work in radio and Koorie
community organisations.
So Tyson, are you working or studying, or both?
Both. I am at the University of Melbourne doing the
Bachelor of Arts (Extended) and I am also working at
VAEAI assisting with organising the Wurreker Awards.
What do you enjoy about work/study?
The media and communications subjects that I have
been doing in the course are the ones that I have
enjoyed most, I’ve ended up choosing that as a major.
What secondary school did you go to?
I went to LaTrobe Secondary from Year 7-10, then that
school merged with Banksia Secondary College, and
that’s where I finished Year 11 and 12.
Now Tyson you were involved in Koorie
community radio for a number of years weren’t
you?
I started getting involved in radio when I was 12
years old. I began doing a radio show on 3KND
with my Dad (Troy Austin). We ended up doing a
few different shows, all sports themed. The shows
changed over the 8 years we were doing it. The first
one was a general sports show, then there was an
AFL show, and a Collingwood specific show that we
did with Joffa from the Collingwood cheer squad.
What was your Year 12 experience like?
It was good. There was a bit of pressure to do well, exams
were something new. A lot of importance was put on it.
But it was good to still be around your group of friends.
When I look back on it now it was a good time.
Did you always plan on doing the course you are
doing now? If not, what inspired you to follow this
course?
No. After I finished school I didn’t know what I wanted
to do at all. I did reception at VAEAI for a year. Then
Jeff Richardson contacted me about the BA Extended
at Melbourne Uni, it seemed like a good program to get
involved in. Now I’ve been in it for 3 years with 1 to go.
26
What was that one called, Colliwobbles Tonight?
Ha Ha (very sarcastic laugh). It was called the
Magpie Footy Show. We ended up getting a
notification put on the Collingwood football club
website to alert people that the show was on.
My year 12 experience was good. There was a bit of pressure
to do well, exams were something new. A lot of importance
was put on it. But it was good to still be around your group of
friends. When I look back on it now it was a good time.
You sound like you really enjoyed the radio work.
What career do you plan to pursue? Why does this
career appeal to you?
This is a question that I’ve been trying to answer since
Year 10 I think. I would ideally like to be involved in a
media department, I wouldn’t say no if Collingwood
tried to pick me up for their media department.
One highlight was getting in contact through radio with
Sam Merasco, who was involved with the Fitzroy Stars
Football Club before it became Aboriginal controlled. It
was good to hear about the history of the Stars.
Well it’s good that you are putting that out there Tyson.
What do you like about media work?
10469
What did you like about doing community radio?
I liked building relationships with the listeners. People
would ring up to request songs, or talk about the footy.
Sometimes with the Collingwood show people would
ring up to say we were talking crap, but it was all a bit
tongue in cheek. It was good to know that people were
listening.
I like building community connections and developing
a following, like what we have been doing with social
media promoting the Fitzroy Stars. It feels good to be
able to build something.
CRICOS No: 00116K
Big Dreaming, No Shame!
Australia’s leading university
welcomes Indigenous students
Indigenous students come to live and study at the University
of Melbourne from all over Australia – from as close as the
suburbs of Melbourne to the furthest corners of the country.
They come, from diverse backgrounds and with a whole range
of academic results, because the University of Melbourne –
through our Murrup Barak Melbourne Institute for Indigenous
Development – offers the support and the services that allow
Indigenous students to stand strong, aim high, and reach wide.
The University of Melbourne is proud of its outstanding
completion rates for Indigenous students. Their success
matters to us.
To learn more about support services and alternative pathway
programs for Indigenous students at the University of
Melbourne, check us out at: murrupbarak.unimelb.edu.au
or ring 1800 457 528.
Todd Fernando, Kalarie man of the Wiradjuri Nation from Central West
New South Wales is studying for his Postgraduate Diploma in Arts, and
Shonae Hobson, Kaantju woman from Cape York, is in her first year of the
Bachelor of Arts (Extended) at the University of Melbourne.
Shanghai Jiao Tong Academic Ranking of World Universities 2014
27
Consider studying at
Australian Catholic University
Australian Catholic University (ACU) welcomes people from all beliefs and backgrounds. We empower
students to think critically, ethically and to bring about change in their communities and professions.
Australian Catholic University is committed to working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander communities to achieve their goals.
Australian Catholic University promotes flexible pathways to enable access to university education for
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
ACU is a national university with campuses located in Melbourne, Ballarat, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra
and Adelaide. Our Victorian campuses are located in Fitzroy and Ballarat.
Jim-baa-yer
Melbourne and Ballarat Campuses
Jim-baa-yer Indigenous Higher Education Unit is located on the Melbourne campus and also services
the Ballarat campus of Australian Catholic University. Jim-baa-yer offers social, cultural, personal and
academic assistance to students whilst undertaking tertiary study in an environment that promotes
positive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identity.
Our units have an open door policy and we encourage students to come and yarn with us. The units
provide student facilities such as a common room, computers, photocopiers, printers and dedicated
study areas.
ITAS - Academic Support
Academic support is provided to students through the Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme
(ITAS) which is coordinated by Jim-Baa-Yer. In addition, personal and academic skills advice, career
development and counselling services, and support for people with special needs or disabilities on
each campus is provided by ACU’s Office of Student Success.
Make your mark . . . . . be the change
28
29
So start your career
TODAY without
an ATAR!
koorie
business
woman
Jirra
Lulla
Harvey
Which secondary school did you attend?
I finished my VCE at Swinburne Senior Secondary College.
What was your Year 12 experience like?
I did my year 12 over two years, I chose all visual arts
subjects so wanted some extra time to create folios and
really immerse myself in the subjects. It was hard work,
and I had to make some sacrifices and cut back on my
social life but it was worth it because I was passionate
about what I was studying.
Jirra Lulla Harvey is a young
Yorta Yorta/ Wiradjuri woman and a
multi-talented writer, artist, curator
and event manager. Jirra recently
established her own marketing
and events company, Kalinya
Communications. VAEAI talked to Jirra
about school, university, and starting
her own company.
Was there anything or anyone who really helped you get
through your final years of high school?
My parents were very supportive and saw my VCE as a
real priority, I was very lucky to have that.
Tell us about the work you are doing. How did you arrive
in the career that you are in?
I have my own marketing and events company, Kalinya
Communications. After school I studied Media and
Communications at Uni, I wanted to be working in an
industry where we could celebrate our achievements.
Today I work across diverse areas such as arts, sports and
music and everyday I’m surrounded by positive stories
coming out of our community.
What message do you have for Koorie students who are
studying at the moment?
Study what you are passionate about! Ask your teachers
if you can write your own essay questions and tailor your
studies to what excites you - study doesn’t have to be boring.
What’s the best advice that you’ve ever received?
That you need to be kind and take care of yourself,
because only when you are strong can you have a positive
impact on family, friends, your community and the rest of
the globe.
| Hawthorn Football Club Indigenous Round guernsey designed by
Jirra Lulla Harvey 2014.
31
32
UNEARTHING INDIGENOUS
FASHION & TALENT
The Indigenous Runway
Project connects young
Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander people
with mentors in fashion,
photography, design,
makeup/hair artistry
and modelling.
If you are a young Koorie who would like to know
more about the world of fashion, styling, photography,
makeup/hair artistry and modelling, please visit
www.globalindigenousmanagement.com
General enquiries:
Mobile: 0430 796 086
[email protected]
The Indigenous Runway Project (previously known as
Indigenous Fashion Unearthed) brings Indigenous design,
culture, photography and modelling talent to the runway.
The project, primarily run by volunteers, is in its third year of
running.
The mentor model has been a great success in empowering
young Aboriginal people to develop their skills and talents, and
connect with a community of creative people.
Coordinator Tina Waru says that participants become
“Indigenous brothers and sisters for life” and develop selfconfidence by working in their area of interest.
The Indigenous Runway Project is a pathway where
Indigenous talent gain access to unique fashion platforms and
spend time in a week long intensive workshop in preparation
for a professional fashion runway show.
The Indigenous runways are headed by the world’s first Global
Indigenous Management and are currently in preparation
for the 2014 Melbourne Spring Fashion Week’s Indigenous
Runway event taking place on Saturday 6 September. Over the
past couple of years the Indigenous Runways have featured
as part of major Australian Fashion Festivals such as the 2013
L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival, 2013 Melbourne Spring
Fashion Week, and the 2014 Virgin Australia Melbourne
Fashion Festival.
The Indigenous Runway Project has branched out to
Indigenous participants from New Zealand, Pacific Islands,
Canada, and the US. This means participants are able to share
in a cross-cultural exchange with Indigenous peoples across
the globe.
All project participants are encouraged to maintain or seek
education and career pathways.
https://www.facebook.com/globalindigenousmanagement
33
Aboriginal Models Sharna Clarke, Stella Gartlett and Maori Model Amber Burrows
showcase garments from well acclaimed fashion designers Batreece Morgan and
Shona Tawhiao.
Aboriginal Beauticians Woo Woo Yiljirli from Alice Springs in the Northern Territory
prepare the models nails as they create bush stories in nail artistry while other
models gain an experience of a lifetime - particpating in a photoshoot with
Aboriginal Photographer Colleen-Ara Palka Raven Strangeways.
34
The third successful Indigenous Fashion Runway as part of Virgin Australia’s
Melbourne Fashion Festival 2014 was a blast; ninety percent of the models
had never modelled before participating in the program and embrace each
Koorie
Magazine
• Issue
01, 2014
otherPathways
ready to
walk the
runway.
35
The student days of
Andrew Jackomos
Andrew Jackomos is a Yorta Yorta man who has
over 30 years’ experience in the Victorian and Federal
public service, in policy and program administration.
36
In 2013 Andrew Jackomos was appointed the Victoria’s first
Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and Young People.
VAEAI talked to Andrew about his school and university days. We
found out he was once a struggling student filmmaker in New York,
who sometimes lived on lifesaver lollies to survive!
Where did you go to school?
I did Year 7-11 at Greythorne High School in the Eastern
Suburbs of Melbourne. I then completed Year 12 at
McKinley Technical College in Washington DC, on an
American Field Service Scholarship.
What are some of your memories from your early years
at school?
I loved secondary school, especially when I got to the
senior years. I was a young teenager, enjoying that life.
I had great friends and we would go surfing along the
coast and have beach parties. But I always had time for
my studies, well most of the time.
Were there any teachers who really encouraged you, or
who you particularly liked?
There were a couple of teachers who were great mentors
and encouraged me and my fellow students to excel. A
good teacher like a mentor is an invaluable friend, they
can set you on your pathway and open your eyes to what
you can achieve in life.
What was it like for you being a young Koorie person
going to school?
There were challenges, but more so in my early years
at high school. I was constantly in conflict with the
Australian History teachers, who put forward their
sanitised version of Australia’s past. All that stuff like
Captain Cook discovered Australia, let alone Aboriginal
people or the Indonesian people who were trading with
Aboriginal people for thousands of years. Unfortunately
there was never anything positive or factual on the
Aboriginal people as first people of this nation.
You studied Year 12 in Washington DC. How did that
come about? What was the experience of studying
overseas like? Were you away from your family?
I was successful in applying for a placement on the
American Field Service to finish year 12 in Washington
DC and stay for the year with a local family. I remember
seeing a notice for the exchange program in the school
corridor. I applied and then found out that I got it.
Spending a year in Washington DC was a fantastic
experience, it opened up my eyes to the world.
There were times when I was very lonely. It was a lot
worse then than now, no Facebook or email, and phone
calls home were the exception. Mainly I wrote letters,
and then would have to wait weeks to get a reply. And
always hoping there would be a ten or twenty dollar note
in the letter.
I became very close to the host family I stayed with. We
are still are in contact today through Facebook. I named
one of my daughters, Naida after my host mother. Lovely
lady who recently passed away.
Living in Washington was a totally different experience
from living in Melbourne. I made lifelong friends from
all over the world. McKinley was then 99.9% African
American. I joked that the 0.1% was a Chinese guy, a
couple of Puerto Ricans and me.
One thing I remember is being voted the School
Captain, but the principal didn’t want a Koorie captain
for his school, so they gave it to my best mate. Whilst I
suspected all the time, a teacher that I met many years
later told me the true story.
37
“The most important thing is to enjoy it, have fun, get involved. It
is very important to enjoy school, enjoy your friends, get involved
in a range of activities in the school. Whether it is sport, arts or
drama, try a range of extra curricular activities because these help
to develop you as a whole person”
You studied cinematography. What sparked your
interest in studying filmmaking? Do you remember any
of the student films that you made?
Yes, I remember them all unfortunately. They (the films)
were all terrible. I studied cinematography at New York
University Film School, with a scholarship from the
Australia Council for the Arts. I then continued my film
studies at the Australian Film and Television school at
Macquarie University.
I became interested in filmmaking in Year 12 whilst at
McKinley, I was doing some photography work at night
at the Howard University Medical School. It was film and
photography work in the operating theatre of the medical
school.
Let me tell you New York was magnificent. At the age
of 20 I was going to school in Greenwich Village, in the
south of the island, and returned at night to my flat in
Spanish Harlem, at the top end of the island. Two very
different communities, but both representative of the
1970s. Rich and poor.
I remember in those days you had to wait for your
student allowance to come through, and often it would
be delayed. There were times I lived on lifesavers days
on end until my pay came through to the Australian
Consulate. Surviving on Lifesavers made you tough, if not
rotted your teeth.
While I was studying I also did quite a lot of freelance
work in cinematography, mostly commercial work like in
advertisements, but also some films which I prefer we not
talk about. With the benefit of hindsight I can say I am a
far better public servant than I was ever a film maker!
38
How did you get involved in the public service?
A friend of mine was working for Aboriginal Hostels
Limited. I was looking for work after realising I was no
good with film. I started out as a Trainee Administration
Office in Moonee Ponds in 1977. By 1980 I had started
a cadetship in the newly established Aboriginal
Development Commission in Canberra, and that set me
on my way to becoming Commissioner.
This year you became Victoria’s first Commissioner for
Aboriginal Children and Young People. What inspired
you to take on this role? What has the role been like
so far?
I don’t think there are any more important people in
our community than our children. Whilst the majority
of Koorie babies, children and young people are being
raised in loving and culturally rich families, there are
unfortunately many who are not. Many of our children
are getting a rough ride at the moment. I thought I could
make a positive contribution and make life a little bit
easier for some of them. I have loved the job so far. It
is a total learning experience with highs and lows as in
any job. It is a very challenging opportunity that I have
to work with community and government to make a
difference.
What advice would you give to Koorie young people
who are in secondary school at the moment and are
moving through to the senior years of their schooling?
The most important thing is to enjoy it, have fun, get
involved. It is very important to enjoy school, enjoy your
friends, get involved in a range of activities in the school.
Whether it is sport, arts or drama, try a range of extra
curricular activities because these help to develop you as
a whole person.
39
40
41
A Conversation with Victoria’s First Koorie Magistrate
It’s a warm day and I’m in a café right across the road from
the Broadmeadows Magistrates Court.
Maybe this VAEAI reporter has seen too much Judge Judy,
but waiting to meet a magistrate for coffee and an interview
is making me feel a bit nervous.
Rose Falla is the first Koorie magistrate in Victoria, and it
turns out when I do meet her she is a lovely woman who is
smart, strong and authoritative, but not scary.
Rose explains to me that she sees her role, amongst other
things, as finding a just outcome for the cases that come
before her.
Rose also believes that it is very important for the magistrate
to guide people through the stressful experience of going
through the court system. Rose does this by trying to give
the people she sees in court all the information they need in
a clear, straightforward way.
I was probably not the best at it, but I had an interest in
Australian History and American History. I also enjoyed sport
and PE, studying the body anatomically and physiologically.
I initially had an interest in becoming a physiotherapist and
studying human movement. I was also always interested in
law enforcement, and I thought about joining the Police Force. I
went to the Police Academy Open Day in Glen Waverly.
Were there any teachers who you found particularly helpful
or inspiring?
There are quite a few that I remember, I had a real affection for
some of my teachers. There was a teacher at Ivanhoe Girls, Ms
Cliffe, who taught English and French, and she was lovely to me
because she saw what a massive learning curve I had in front of
me academically, as well as learning how to conduct myself and
to meet the expectations of the school.
Hi Rose, what clan/tribe are you from?
What was it like for you being a young Koorie going to school?
Wotjobaluk/Wemba Wemba, from the Western District
of Victoria.
I remember studying the 1988 Bicentennial, and we were
discussing what it meant. A teacher asked me what I thought
- the first time I had been asked for my opinion as a Koorie
person. I said that we are now a nation, but this wasn’t
something that was necessarily celebrated by my community.
It was out there and I had made a statement about my identity
it was really good. I was always very mindful of representing
my community well.
Where did you go to school?
I went to Coolaroo Primary School. In Year 7 I went to
Broadmeadows High (now Hume Secondary College) and
then in Year 8 I got a scholarship to Ivanhoe Girls Grammar
School, where I finished my secondary education.
42
What subjects did you like in school?
“I’m still the daggy
Aunty who dances
to Beyonce.”
What was your final year at school like?
I look back on it with real affection. I was concerned with
passing though. I knew I had worked hard, and got good
grades. But I was aware that the school prided itself on a
100% pass rate. Friendships helped to get me through the
difficult times. Also what helped me was being organised. I
think that this is something that has seen me through both my
studies and my career. I feel less stressed if I am organised and
I know I have worked steadily along, plugging away.
What did you do after you finished school?
I didn’t go straight to uni, I worked. My first job was a data
entry (consumer entry) job at Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
I then got experience working at a range of government and
non-government agencies. I worked for the Koorie Heritage
Trust, then I worked for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Commission (ATSIC) as an Executive Assistant to
the Regional Councils. After that, I worked for OATSIH (Office
for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health) looking at
projects and funding for Koorie organisations in Gippsland.
Then I went to Department of Justice.
When did you begin studying the law?
I began studying when I was working at the Koorie Heritage
Trust. Uncle Jim Berg was pivotal in giving me the time off
to pursue my studies. Becoming a magistrate has never been
a clear path to me, but – and Koories get this- to me it is a
shared journey. So many people have guided me along the
way, supported me. For example Uncle Jim Berg, my friends
at Justice – and working on the Koorie Court, I met other
magistrates, and got to know them. One day a magistrate said
to me, “Have you ever thought of becoming a magistrate?” At
that point in time, it didn’t even cross my mind as I thought
being a lawyer was challenging enough.
You helped establish the Koorie Courts as a legal officer at
Department of Justice. How did that come about?
The First Justice Agreement had been created, and the RAJACs
were being set up (Regional Aboriginal Justice Advisory
Committee). I was looking after the Northern Metropolitan
RAJAC, and the implementation of the Koorie Courts fed into
our area. I had just finished my law degree and the Director of
Legal Policy asked if I was interested in the job.
You then worked at the Office of Public Prosecutions, what
was that experience like?
Initially at the interview I was asked how I would feel about
prosecuting Koories. I took that as a bit of a challenge. Well
what about non- Koories? I saw it as a real opportunity
to dispel some myths and affect cultural change. The
reason why I ended up prosecuting rather than defending
was a matter of timing. I had applied for a job at Legal
Aid but was still waiting to hear back when the Office of
Prosecutions job came up. So I took the job.
In 2013 you became Victoria’s first Aboriginal Magistrate.
What was it like for you receiving this appointment?
I had to keep it a secret for 2 months, which was hard.
I couldn’t tell my colleagues. I did get some “I heard a
rumour” type questions. In receiving the appointment I felt
incredibly humbled. It is a massive responsibility, which
impacts on peoples’ lives, and I take that very seriously.
Often people find themselves in court after having made
bad decisions, and being able to provide people with that
human contact, that is a part of the job that I enjoy.
How have you found the role so far?
Sometimes I think what have I done? Some of it is
unchartered territory for me. I do feel though that how you
come across in court can really ensure that people feel they
have been heard, understand your ruling and hopefully
make them make better decisions in the future. I think
that is really important. Often people come to court with
underlying issues. It is the one job where you really don’t
want the people who come to see you to attend again. You
want to try to help that person to minimise the chance of
them re-offending as much as possible.
What advice would you give to young Koorie people who are
interested in pursuing a career in the law?
Do it. There is so much variety. I was interested in criminal
law, but you can also do commercial law, which is very
rewarding. If you go to the Victorian bar, you can become
a barrister. You can specialise in so many different types of
law, sport, entertainment, occupational health and safety
law, commercial, criminal, there is so much you can do.
Finally, what does your family think about you becoming
a magistrate?
Well I know that they are very proud of me, but I have never
really asked them what they thought. Without diminishing
the role it is still just a job, it is what I do, not what defines
me. I’m still the daggy Aunty who dances to Beyonce.
43
Victorian Skills Gateway
In December 2012, the Minister for Higher Education and Skills launched the Victorian Skills Gateway, a new
website with a searchable list of RTOs and their public training offerings in Victoria. The Gateway is an online
one-stop-shop for vocational training in Victoria. It enables vocational training consumers to easily navigate the
extensive vocational training options available across Victoria, searching by occupation, course, study area or
training provider.
The Gateway includes: information about occupations (including video and text case studies), Victorian job
prospect information, and which vocational training courses are relevant to each job. Prospective students can
search or browse for an occupation, view a video featuring someone in the workplace describing their day-to-day
activities, find a relevant course, and locate the exact campus where the course is offered.
Since its launch, over 305,000 people have visited the Victorian Skills Gateway.
Visit the Victorian Skills Gateway at
http://www.education.vic.gov.au/victorianskillsgateway/Pages/home.aspx
A record 31 young Koories were nominated in 2014 for the Ricci Marks Award
which was presented in May this year as part of Victoria’s first Koorie Youth
Summit. The purpose of the summit is to promote the ambition and talent of
Victoria’s Indigenous youth.
Lucy-Rose Doolan from Mildura, who is studying Arts and Law and involved in youth leadership initiatives
in her community, and William Austin from Ballarat, who is completing Year 12 and is very active in his local
community were the joint recipients of this year’s award, receiving $5,000.
Ngaree Blow, of Melbourne, who is studying for a degree in Medicine and Masters in Public Health received
the $500 Encouragement Award.
For people in your
community to see
and recognise you
for the contributions
you make to your
community- it’s really
special and it really
means a lot.
Lucy-Rose Doolan
Lucy-Rose Doolan
William Austin
Ngaree Blow
RICCI MARKS AWARD 2014
The Koorie Youth
Summit brought
together 120
Indigenous youth
from across Victoria
seeking to connect,
inspire, express and
empower each otherincluding past Ricci
Marks recipients who
acted as leaders for
many of the youth
over the two days.
This is the 17th year of the award- renamed in memory of past recipient, Ricci Marks, in 2004. At this year’s
ceremony present and past recipients spoke of the honour the accolade bestowed upon them. “For people
in your community to see and recognise you for the contributions you make to your community- it’s really
special and it really means a lot,” 22-year-old Lucy. Will and Lucy embraced their role as young leaders
through their active participation at the summit, aimed at inspiring young Koories. Will was part of an
interactive panel that discussed his work on rising suicide rates among young Indigenous males, including
his involvement with the R U OK? campaign and his own video on the important issue.
Lucy has been an active member of the Koorie Youth Council for two years and volunteered to be the Interim
Chairperson this year. Statewide Coordinator of the Koorie Youth Council and co-organiser of the KYS, Greg
Kennedy, says it is a role she fulfills with passion and dedication. “Lucy travels down from Mildura for every
meeting...she travels on an overnight bus, gives a really great input and then travels back about a seven hour
journey home. She’s a tremendous young Koorie lady.” “I’ve known Will for a while now... What strikes me
about him is that for a 17-year-old he’s really got great composure and a great presence about himself. He’s
one to watch,” Greg said of the young achievers.
The Koorie Youth Summit grew from a strong collaboration between two past winners- young Koorie
businesswoman and owner of Kalinya Communications, Jirra Lulla Harvey, and Greg Kennedy with the
Koorie Youth Council team. Last year’s recipients, Bronwyn Mongta and Nayuka Gorrie, were present and
active at the summit as participant and Ricci Marks Award co-presenter, and facilitator of the Creating
Change workshop respectively. For Will, time in the spotlight is time he wants to spend continuing a cause
close to his heart. “I’m definitely going to try and engage myself more in the Indigenous community and
connect myself more with mental health organisations,” he said. “The Koorie Youth Summit has allowed us
to broaden our perspective on heaps of issues that the Aboriginal community faces on a day-to-day basis.
And we’ve got amazing young people, people who’ve got the chance to speak their ideas and bring fourth
their projects and it allows us to learn new things and jump on board and make a difference for the better of
our Aboriginal community.“
45
“It doesn’t take two people to interview Aaron
Pedersen!” That is what our manager at VAEAI
tells us two Policy Officers when we head off
to interview Mr Pedersen one afternoon. Of
course, the manager is right. It really does only
take one person to interview Aaron Pedersen.
Trouble is, if we had only sent one person we
would have had to fight over who went. So
for the sake of office harmony, two did the
interview.
What we discovered is that Aaron Pedersen has a
amazing life story. He was born in Alice Springs, and
faced a lot of challenges in his early years. Aaron and
his brothers and sisters moved around many times,
and Aaron was the main carer for his brother Vinnie,
who needs a lot of support because he was born with
mild cerebral palsy and a mild intellectual disability.
From a young age Aaron was determined to make a
better life for himself and his brother. This led him to
move to Melbourne with Vinnie, so that Aaron could
complete Year 12. What followed was a journalism
cadetship with the ABC, and a career in news reporting,
then a move into stage, film and TV acting.
One of the most recognisable and awarded actors
working in Australia today, we find Aaron to be very
generous with his time and willing to share his life
story in the hope that it will help Aboriginal young
people feel inspired to pursue what they want to do.
Aaron Pedersen
46
VAEAI: So you spent your childhood in Alice Springs and from what I have read you and
your siblings moved around a lot. And you were also a carer for your brother. What effect
do you think your home life had on your schooling?
Oh I think everybody’s home life can affect their schooling, a lot of people had it worse than me,
came from broken homes, dysfunctional homes.
My home life was not as stable as what I would like it to be. But I thought I can still achieve
things, in an environment that’s not perfect. The thing that kept me going was that I just made
myself my own role model. I looked inside myself, and I thought if anyone is going to get me out
of this it is going to be me. We can have aspirations to be like other people but I do think that
you have to believe in your own spirit. As Aboriginal people our ancestors have come a long
way, have fought hard to get us here, they had a lot of hardships, a lot worse than me. A lot of
our parents, our families they were not even considered citizens at one point.
I just realised from my young years that I was part of a privileged generation. I was able to go to
the same school as white people, I was able to go to the same hospital, I could immerse myself
in society without conditions or restrictions. I was in a better place than my ancestors before
me. I was born in 1970, three years after the Referendum. I thought it was important for us not
to waste all that fight and all the hard work that a lot of our ancestors had gone through. It was
hard, home was hard, but I didn’t let that affect me. I kind of blocked a lot of things out and I
thought I had a job to do. With the caring of my brother, I thought if I didn’t do it nobody was
going to do it. I focused on my brother and focused on myself. I gave myself some responsibility
and some self belief when I was a lot younger.
What kind of student were you in school?
A couple of my teachers would probably say “class clown”. I was one of those students who had
a lot of energy, I saw school as an opportunity to escape and also to distract me from the things
that were going on at home.
It made life a lot easier for me, I just felt that it was important that I used it like that. I didn’t
have negative thoughts about school. I thought it was probably not perfect, but I just thought
1967 Referendum
On 27 May 1967, 90.77% of Australian voters recorded the largest ever ‘Yes’ vote in a
referendum to alter the Australian Constitution. This referendum finally enabled Aboriginal
people to be counted in the national census and to be subject to Commonwealth laws, rather
than just state laws. Many Aboriginal people considered that changing sections of the Federal
Constitution was essential in gaining formal recognition of their existence as people of their
own country. Only four referenda prior to 1967 had been passed.
Teacher resource, Museum of WA
47
it was a great way of putting my head into something
else and focusing on finding the right path and the right
people I suppose to make things work in my favour. It was
one of those things that just comes back to inner belief I
just believed that I could do it. I don’t know why, maybe it
is something that I got from my ancestors. I just believed
that it was possible.
is probably a good chance. The case worker at the time,
her son had gone to Monivae college in Hamilton, in South
Western Victoria. And she gave me some options for
schools, in Queensland, in Darwin, and Monivae College
in Victoria. And I thought to myself, yeah look I have to
get as far away from here as possible for things to fall back
into my control.
I didn’t watch a lot of TV when I was younger and I didn’t
have access to a lot of other early role models, so I just
made myself a role model, it seems weird to say that but
that is what I did. The conversations that I had with myself
about changing things in my life were good conversations.
School, a bit like work, just occupied my brain.
So I went to school for the last three years in Hamilton,
and I completed Year 12 too. I didn’t pass it by much but
I just completed it, it was a goal that I had that I set for
myself. It was something that I had to do for me. And I was
one of the only Aboriginal people there. And that didn’t
stop me, I just thought that was something that made us
special. It was the same boarding school that Mick Dodson
and Pat Dodson had gone to. They had been mentioned to
me, their history, and I had their image in my heart, that
was a bit of an inspiration.
Do you remember learning much about Aboriginal history
and culture in school?
Well there really wasn’t any Aboriginal history or culture
in the school. We were taught about Captain Cook and
they were saying things like we were savages, it was
concerning really. I do remember going home and thinking
why are they talking about us this way? But Aboriginality
is something in yourself, and we come from a long line
of warriors, be they men or women. They have done
magnificent things to survive in this harsh land, with their
skill, spirit and soul. That was something white Australians
didn’t have. To me, that was like a magic ingredient
in the recipe of my life. And I feel like that today. I am
empowered by our people.
I think you have got to get the message out there about
our mob, who we are. That is part of my work. If you
can do it through drama and art, then you can get that
message out to people in a way they can understand.
That early self belief that you had in your school days, is that
something that you have carried through your life so far?
Oh definitely. I have had my brother with me the whole
time. I have done this with my brother walking beside me.
And I think in a way I have done this for both of us, making
our lives better.
We are just going to ask some questions now about your
career. You began your career as a cadet journalist with
the ABC. How did that come about?
I was in high school in Alice Springs, and probably about
16 and I thought to myself I want to get out of here. I felt
like I had to make sacrifices and leave my home for things
to change and shift in the right direction. And because I
was in a home, I was a ward of the State, at the time, I just
pretty much said to them “look is there any chance of me
going to school somewhere else?” And they said yes, there
48
When I was at the start of Year 12 a careers person came
to speak to us and they asked what do you want to do,
and I said I wouldn’t mind becoming a PE teacher or a
social worker, and I’m interested in TV too. They said well
actually there is an ABC cadetship on offer in Melbourne.
And I thought oh cool, OK. So I got some help from people
in the school to do an application and put it on tape. I went
back to Alice Springs after school and it had been so long
that I thought I hadn’t got the cadetship. Then they sent
me a letter saying I had to start in three days. I just packed
up everything and left in three days. I just went for it.
I didn’t understand much about journalism or storytelling
at that time, but I just threw caution to the wind and did
it. I started in 1989. I had no accommodation, no money,
nothing. I went to the op shop bought out all these clothes,
suits and stuff. I probably looked really out of place but I
didn’t care, for me I was on my way, and I was out of Alice
Springs and I was going places.
The cadetship was really hard, it wasn’t easy for me. I
went down that path, I struggled but all along I just didn’t
give up. I thought, “you know what, I don’t know what
I am doing, but I do want to do this, whatever it is”. I
was in the ABC newsroom, and I was in the heart of city
news. I gravitated towards sport [journalism] and that
was something I really loved. I was interviewing Greg
Norman, Pat Cash, John McEnroe. I thought this is freaky
- it is fantastic.I was pretty driven, I was very ambitious,
stubborn. And if I started something I saw it through. I
only just passed Year 12, but I saw it through and that was
what helped me get the apprenticeship.
I think for a lot of young Koories reading the article, it
would be good for them to know that you just passed Year
12 but it opened doors for you doing that.
A colleague here at VAEAI told me that she saw you in a
play about Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, Conversations
with the Dead, and she said it was the first time that she
appreciated how powerful an actor can be in telling a
story and making it come to life.
Yeah sis, that was amazing having that opportunity. That
came about because one of the other actors couldn’t do it.
I had no time to learn it. I packed my house up in Sydney
on the Sunday, and I think on the Wednesday I had to
perform with book in hand, a 90 page script. Then by
Friday I was off the script, I learnt it that quick. But I got a
lot out of that, I was very fortunate to do that, and to win
the Green Room Award for best actor, for that part.
I threw my heart and soul into it for a lot of reasons. And
it was a heavy play, about Deaths in Custody. I made all
these really positive changes to do that play, I stopped
drinking, not that I was drinking that much, but I knew
it was a heavy play, and I thought this is something that
could really do your head in. We also performed it for the
police and for the justice mob, as a training piece, and an
information education piece.
That was my first big play and my first big acting role, and
I just grabbed it with both hands.
You have been in a lot of high profile TV shows, what
is it like for you getting recognised in the street, is it
something that you get used to.
It’s interesting, sometimes it gets a bit claustrophobic, but
I realise that it comes with the job. But I stay home a lot, I
don’t really go out that much. With my brother Vinnie we
just hang out [at home], I have responsibilities.
Also if someone comes up to me I’m happy to say hello, I’m
just my normal self, do photos and autographs. I’m never
rude to anyone because you have to realise that if you don’t
have an audience you don’t have a job, it’s really simple.
But it’s fun, it’s great, especially when blackfellas recognise
me, it makes me laugh. And they are proud too, so that’s
a positive thing that has come out of it. When I was doing
my earlier stuff I went and worked in prisons a lot. It was
empowering because I was playing a detective and I
thought “here we go, these countrymen here they’re not
going to enjoy me playing a detective”. But they were like
“hey brus that’s deadly eh, I love all that hey brother can I
have a photo for my kids”. And I thought you know that’s
solid, they saw me as an actor doing something that was
positive even though I was playing a detective and coppers.
And blackfellas saw that, they saw that even though you
were doing that stuff there was still that fight in your
heart, that need to be Aboriginal.
Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody
The play that Aaron speaks of in this interview is
Conversations with the Dead by Richard Frankland,
which is about a young man who is employed by the Royal
Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody. This Royal
Commission was established in October 1987 in response
to a growing public concern that deaths in custody (i.e
in prison or remand) of Aboriginal people were far too
common.
One of the major recommendations that came out of that
Royal Commission was that all Australians needed to be
educated to understand Aboriginal people, their history
and contemporary culture.
Recommendation 290 of the Royal Commission into
Aboriginal deaths in custody states that:
Curricula of schools at all levels should reflect the fact
that Australia has an Aboriginal history and Aboriginal
viewpoints on social, cultural and historical matters.
It is essential that Aboriginal viewpoints, interests,
perceptions and expectations are reflected in curricula,
teaching and administration of schools.
Speaking of detectives Ivan Sen wrote Mystery Road
with you in mind as the lead actor. Was that daunting
knowing he had you in mind as the central character of
his film?
No it wasn’t daunting - I was really really excited with Ivan
doing that. About 6 years ago we ran into each other and
he said to me “I have a project I want to talk to you about”.
6 years later he sent me the script. He said “I wrote this for
you brother, you are in every scene” and I said “no worries
brother”, and I understood the script, I was very familiar
with that character, the sort of person he was. So it wasn’t
daunting it was empowering. I never get taken aback by
stuff because I think that our ancestors have fought so
hard for us to be here and to be true to ourselves as much
as we can.
The thing that stood out to me most about the character
you played in Mystery Road was how much you conveyed
through the eyes.
Look the most powerful thing about that was working with
Ivan. He understood that I had played enough policemen
and detectives that I came with something for him, and
he came with something for me. Because Ivan is a really
talented filmmaker, if there is anyone in this country who
has the right to call themselves a filmmaker it’s Ivan
Sen. Because he does everything, he’s just an incredible,
incredible brother boy.
49
The script is quite hardcore really, it’s a piece about
standing up for your community standing up for your
people. We just approached it with such honesty and
rawness but we also realised that we were making this
for our people, we were making this for our ancestors,
we were making it for the next generation. And the
underlying message was that [my character] Jay Swan
was the hero, he was doing everything within the
parameters of the law. He wasn’t a law breaker, he was
bringing justice to very unjust circumstances. And I loved
it, I thought how did you get this funded, because in the
end I just [SPOILER ALERT] kill everybody. But it was all
within the parameters of the law.
I was just so honoured to take on the role, and Ivan and
I we just empowered each other. I am so grateful to him
because it means so much to him.
A lot of stuff in the film is very true, it’s not gammon,
there’s a statement here to be made in this film, it will be
there for generations to come. There are messages there
about racism, about the land we live in. It’s a smart,
hardcore piece of filmmaking, but with subtlety.
Your character is a bit of an observer, and an outsider,
do you find as an actor you are always watching and
studying people?
Of course I’ve always been a listener, I’ve always been
aware of stuff. I probably do more talking than Ivan
though. I based that character half on Ivan and half on me.
I knew that he based that character on me, so I knew he
wanted the spirit, the walk, the talk the body language of
Aaron, but when I read the script I knew what he wanted
to say. I didn’t overindulge on finding some character to
base this on, I thought you know what - it is half Ivan and
half me.
And I think that Ivan was very taken back by that. I said to
him “you know brother I’m actually basing this character
on you, you know that”. And he didn’t say anything, so I
thought “oh I wonder what he thinks about that”. But then
I found out later on that he even mentioned that I based
the character on him so I thought “ok he was proud of that,
he did understand what I was doing”. He did know that it
was important to play it that way. So I laugh and I say “the
part that is doing the talking is me and the part with all
the silences is you Ivan”. But it’s true it really is true.
Mystery Road is a 2013 Australian crime film written and directed by Ivan Sen.
Near the rural town of Winton, Queensland, a truck driver hears a wild dog growling and
finds the body of a teenage girl named Julie Mason inside one of the tunnels. Detective Jay
Swan (Aaron Pedersen) is called from the city to investigate the murder.
50
What message would you have for young Koorie people
in school who are looking to get into a career in the
media or performing arts?
Look it’s a cutthroat industry, nothing happens overnight.
But my attitude is if you have got the talent, your career
will take over. My attitude is that if you want to get into
this industry it has to be for more than one reason, it
has to be for the messages that you send out, and the
opportunities that you get, rather than the fame. You can’t
just want to be famous, you have to want to be a part
of a bigger movement. I am just a part of a generation
of people who were inspired by people like Uncle Jack
Charles, and Kylie Belling, who did TV and film way before
I did. I am going to take the opportunity that I am given
and try to make it work to benefit everybody. I feel like I
have always got my people on my journey.
Well we think that you have got an amazing story and
the most striking thing about it is the way you have
pushed yourself, so it will be a good story to share.
Well having Vinnie in my life, you know my brother Vinnie,
made me realise I had to do something in my life, because
I thought he’s not going to have the life he deserves and
I’m not going to be happy with myself because I haven’t
at least tried to make it better for him and more secure.
And he loves it, he loves meeting all the famous people, it
makes you laugh. It is really beautiful. He’s got a spirit and
he’s got a soul and he gets to be a part of what I am doing.
He’s a big part of why I chose to keep my head together
and not end up behind bars, or lost in the system.
No one laughs louder than my brother, no one smiles bigger
than him. No one has as much unconditional love for life and
for me as he does. We are just two brothers in arms.
My Brother Vinnie
The bond between Aaron and his brother is
explored in this 2006 documentary by Steven
McGregor and Sarah Bond.
Reach Your
Goals in 2015
Contact the Ngarara Willim Centre for
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
for study options, scholarships and support.
+61 3 9925 4885
[email protected]
www.rmit.edu.au/ngarara
/ngararawillim
Artwork by Wurundjeri artist Mandy Nicholson
NGARARA WILLIM CENTRE FOR ABORIGINAL
AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLES
51
52
53
Scholarships
There are many scholarships that are available for
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Victoria.
We have listed a range here, so you can get an idea of
what is available. You can also search for scholarships
online using these databases:
Tip: if you are looking for Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander scholarships, you can use the search terms
“Indigenous” or “Aboriginal” which will bring up a
range of scholarship options (by State).
www.myfuture.edu.au
www.indigenousscholarships.com.au
has detailed listings of scholarships and support. (Go to
The Facts section and look under Funding – Awards and
scholarships.) You can search for information:
Here you will find over 300 scholarships for undergraduate
study at Australian universities as well as more than 100
postgraduate scholarships for study in Australia and overseas.
•
•
•
•
alphabetically
based on the region where you want to study
by organisation
by subject.
Scholarships from TAFE and Universities (Visit the website for more information)
TAFE Box Hill Institute • http://www.bhtafe.edu.au/students/scholarships/Pages/default.aspx
East Gippsland TAFE • http://www.advancetafe.edu.au/pages/achieve/scholarships.htm
Gordon Institute of TAFE • http://www.thegordon.edu.au/Future%20Students/Scholarships/Pages/Home.aspx
Kangan Batman TAFE • http://www.kangan.edu.au/scholarships
Northern Metropolitan Institute of TAFE • http://www.nmit.edu.au/current-students/awards-program/
William Angliss Institute • http://www.angliss.edu.au/future-students/scholarships
Universities
LaTrobe University • http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/la-trobe-university-indigenous-students-scholarship
(This site also provides information on Commonwealth Government scholarships)
Australian Catholic University • http://www.acu.edu.au/about_acu/faculties,_institutes_and_centres/centres/centre_for_indigenous_education_
and_research/scholarships Deakin University • http://www.deakin.edu.au/ike/scholarships.php/
Monash University • (This site also provides information on other scholarships and cadetships) http://www.monash.edu.au/students/
scholarships/
RMIT • http://www.rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=rprnr81zl8fo Swinburne University of Technology • http://www.future.swinburne.edu.au/scholarships/future/
Federation University (formerly University of Ballarat) • http://federation.edu.au/students/getting-started-at-feduni/scholarships
University of Melbourne • http://futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/admissions/scholarships
Victoria University • http://www.vu.edu.au/study-with-us/scholarships
54
Scholarship Name
Scholarship Details
Organisation & Contact Details
Closing Date
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander
Pharmacy Scholarship Scheme
This is available for any student (Bachelor of Pharmacy
or Master of Pharmacy) enrolled as a full-time student at
an Australian university, undertaking the qualification for
registration as a pharmacist. Students can apply for the
scholarship at any time throughout their study.
5th Community Pharmacy
Agreement (Rural Pharmacy)
02 6270 1888
[email protected]
No closing date
AIEF-BHP Billiton Tertiary
Scholarships
Offered by the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation
(AIEF) in partnership with BHP Billiton, these scholarships are
aimed at Indigenous students who are interested in successfully
completing a degree in an Engineering or other eligible mining
related disciplines, and with a motivation to work for BHP
Billiton in the future.
Australian Indigenous Education
Foundation (AIEF)
02 8373 8000
[email protected]
http://www.aief.com.au/
Currently closed. Contact
the scholarship provider for
information about future
scholarships.
AMA Indigenous Peoples' Medical
Scholarship 2014
The scholarship is aimed at increasing the number of
Indigenous doctors in Australia. Applicants must be currently
enrolled at an Australian medical school and have successfully
passed their first year of medicine.
Australian Medical Association
Ms Sandra Riley
02 6270 5452
[email protected]
https://ama.com.au/indigenouspeoples-medical-scholarship-2014
scholarships.
Anglo American Indigenous
Undergraduate Scholarship
Anglo American Metallurgical Coal is offering scholarships to
exceptional Indigenous students to support them throughout
their university studies to the completion of their degree (to a
maximum of 4 years). Scholarships are open to students at any
stage of their degree studying in an area relevant to the mining
industry.
Anglo American Metallurgical Coal
Kate Whiting
[email protected]
http://bethedifference.
angloamerican.com.au/
scholarships.
APS Indigenous Cadetship Program
The APS Indigenous Cadetship Program is designed to link fulltime Indigenous students undertaking their first undergraduate
degree with Australian Government employers who can give
them work placements and ongoing employment once they
finish their studies. A cadetship is a combination of full time
study and work placement.
Australian Public Service
Commission - Indigenous
Employment Team
1300 656 009
[email protected]
http://www.apsc.gov.au/
indigenous/indigenous-pathways
scholarships.
Australian Disability and
Indigenous Peoples' Education Fund
The purpose of the education fund is to help people with
disabilities from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous
backgrounds undertake education courses and programs
through the provision of small grants.
Frank Hall-Bentick
03 9429 4210
[email protected]
Two closing dates per year;
contact the scholarship
provider.
Australian Disability and
This Fund aims to assist people with disability gain
Indigenous Peoples’ Education Fund empowerment through access to formal and informal education
programs.
03 9429 4210
[email protected]
http://www.adipef.org.au/
Deadline for the next round of
applications is September 30th,
2014. Check website for dates
of future rounds.
Australian Rotary Health Geoff
Bailey PhD Scholarship
This scholarship, jointly funded by Australian Rotary Health
and relevant universities or research institutes, provides
financial support for recent graduates looking to build a career
in health research with research conducted in Australia which
has the potential to enhance the health of the community.
Ms Kelly Martinez
(02) 8837 1900
kellymartinez@
australianrotaryhealth.org.au
provider.
Australian Rotary Health
Indigenous Health Scholarship
This scholarship is intended to provide financial assistance,
support and encouragement to Indigenous students
undertaking a course in the health-related professions of
nursing, medicine, or allied health. The scholarship is paid in
addition to the Government Abstudy allowance.
Ms Cheryl Deguara
02 8837 1900
cheryldeguara@
australianrotaryhealth.org.au
provider.
Department of Human Services
and Department of Health
Indigenous Scholarships
These departments administer everal Aboriginal scholarships
that assist Aboriginal students to complete studies that are
relevant to either a career in department or in the funded
health or allied health sector.
http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/forindividuals/financial-support/
scholarships/aboriginal-scholarships
See the website for the various
deadlines
Department of Justice Koorie
Tertiary Scholarships
The Department of Justice Koorie Tertiary Scholarship Program
provides financial support for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait
Islander people to undertake full time studies in a justice
related field.
03 8684 1751
[email protected]
http://www.justice.vic.gov.au/utility/
careers/koori+employment/
Applications for 2014 have
closed. For information on
the 2015 Koorie Tertiary
Scholarship intake. Contact the
Department of Justice Koorie
Employment Team.
Heart Foundation Australian
Indigenous Scholarship
The Heart Foundation Australian Indigenous Scholarship
exists to encourage and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander peoples to undertake a PhD or Masters (by research)
in cardiovascular research. Study may be in any area that is
relevant to cardiovascular health (including biomedical, clinical,
public health and health services research).
Heart Foundation
Ernie Kocsis
03 9321 1581
[email protected]
http://www.heartfoundation.org.au/
research/funding/Pages/australianindigenous-scholarships.aspx
20th June 2014
55
Examples of Indigenous Scholarships
56
Scholarship Name
Scholarship Details
Closing Date
Indigenous Business Australia
Scholarship Fund
The purpose of the Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) fund
is to provide financial support to mature-aged Indigenous
Australians who wish to achieve a tertiary qualification
in commercial or economic management with a focus on
business, finance and/or leadership.
Indigenous Business Australia
1800 107 107
[email protected]
http://www.iba.gov.au/scholarships
September 2014. Contact
information.
Indigenous Cadetship Support
Program (ICS)
The Indigenous Cadetship Support (ICS) program links
Indigenous tertiary students with employers who can give
them paid work placements relevant to their course of study,
and ongoing employment once they finish their studies.
Approved cadets undertake a 12 week paid work placement
(or equivalent) with an employer for each full year of the
Agreement.
Indigenous employment line
1802 102
No closing date
Jeff Dobell Memorial Scholarship
The Jeff Dobell Memorial scholarships are offered to students
who have completed the Indigenous Australian Engineering
Summer School (IAESS) and are undertaking the first year of
an engineering or engineering related course at any Australian
university.
Anne Vans-Colina or Peter Berry
02 9449 6004
[email protected]
No closing date; contact the
scholarship provider
John Koowarta Reconciliation Law
Scholarship
This scholarship commemorates John Koowarta, a member
of the Winychanam community at Aurukun, and a traditional
owner of the Archer River region on Cape York Peninsula in
Queensland. Applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate
or postgraduate course in the area of law.
The Law Council of Australia
[email protected]
http://www.lawcouncil.asn.au/
lawcouncil/index.php/aboutthe-law-council-of-australia/
scholarships/john-koowartareconciliation-law-scholarship
scholarships.
Mary MacKillop Foundation
Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Tertiary Scholarship
These scholarships are open to Indigenous men and women
who are undertaking full-time study at an Australian university.
Eligible applicants must have completed at least one year of
their degree. Scholarships are offered for study in the areas of
health, education, law, and human rights.
Jacqui Garber
9929 7344
[email protected]
https://mackillopfoundation.org.au/
scholarships/
Closed for 2014; applications
for 2015 will open on 1 October
2014.
Murup Barack Indigenous
Scholarships and Awards
The Melbourne institute for Indigenous development has a
number of scholarships and awards available. See the website
for a full list and deadlines.
http://www.murrupbarak.unimelb.
edu.au/content/pages/indigenousscholarships-and-awards
deadlines
Neville Bonner Memorial
Scholarship
The Neville Bonner Memorial Scholarship is for Indigenous
Australians to study Honours in Political Science or related
subjects at any recognised Australian university. Ms Karen Holt
02 6125 2825
[email protected]
http://philanthropy.anu.edu.au/
philanthropy/scholarships/nevillebonner/
January each year
Oodgeroo Scholarship
Indigenous scholarships are provided to encourage and enable
Indigenous students to study at the University of Melbourne
and Trinity College.
03 9348 7100
http://www.trinity.unimelb.edu.
au/learning/residential-college/
scholarships/scholarships-forindigenous-students.html
See the website for more details
on the deadlines.
PhD Scholarship in Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander Male Health
Available to an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student
to undertake full time research towards a PhD degree. It is
proposed that the project will focus on health service access
and primary health care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander males.
Dr Carol Holden
1300 303 878
[email protected]
https://www.andrologyaustralia.
org/phd/
scholarships.
Planning Institute of Australia's
Indigenous Australian Scholarships
Successful students will be guaranteed 12 weeks of paid work
experience as a student planner with a regional local council,
and also receive a $13,000 per annum scholarship to put
toward their study and living expenses for each year of their
undergraduate degree. In addition, PIA will provide each
student with support in the form of mentoring and professional
development services.
03 9654 3777
[email protected]
http://www.planning.org.au/
viccontent/indigenous-australianscholarships-2
For more information about
the scholarship and deadlines
contact the PIA.
QANTAS Spirit of Youth Awards
These awards celebrate emerging talent in a number of areas
including visual arts, design and communication, film and
video, animation, music and photography.
http://www.qantas.com.au/travel/
airlines/spirit-of-youth-awards/
global/en
on the deadlines and awards.
Scholarship Name
Scholarship Details
Closing Date
Sally White/Diane Barwick Award
This scholarship is awarded annually to a female Aboriginal or
Torres Strait Islander tertiary student who is about to start or is
already studying at Honours level. Students may apply at any
time for selection in April of the following year.
Aboriginal History
Rob Paton
0419 736 459
[email protected]
No closing date; contact the
scholarship provider
South Australian Research and
Development Institute (SARDI)
Science Bursary
This bursary is available for an honours graduate currently
undertaking or wishing to undertake post-graduate studies in
agriculture, fisheries or forestry science at a tertiary institution
in Australia.
The South Australian Research and
Development Institute (SARDI)
Ms Pauline Bowden
08 8303 9420
[email protected]
http://www.sardi.sa.gov.au/
employment/sardi_science_bursary_
for_aboriginal_students
Closed for 2014 bursaries;
however applications for 2015
are accepted any time of the
year.
The Alice Jennings Scholarship
This scholarship is for female Koorie students who are
currently completing Year 12 in a Victorian school and will be
commencing a full-time approved TAFE or university course
the yrear aft in a field that contributes to the welfare of the
Koorie population (i.e. law, social work, education, psychology
or applied science).
Department of Education and Early
Applications will re-open
Childhood Development, Coordinator mid-November 2014. See the
website for updates.
of Student Scholarships
03 9637 3367
[email protected].
gov.au
https://www.eduweb.vic.gov.au/
scholarships/list.aspx?YearID=13
The Marilyn Godley Scholarship for
Indigenous Students
This scholarship is offered to a female Aboriginal or Torres
Strait Islander student residing in Victoria and enrolled in an
undergraduate degree at a Victorian university. This scholarship
is valued at $2,000.
[email protected]
http://gradwomenvic.org.au/
scholarships/marilyn-godleyscholarship-indigenous-students/
closed. For information on the
next intake see the website for
details.
The Northcote Trust Academic
Scholarship
The annual Northcote Trust Academic scholarship is open
to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who have
achieved outstanding results in the Victorian Certificate of
Education (VCE) and who are enrolled to commence a suitable
degree course of study at a Victorian tertiary institution.
The Victorian Aboriginal Education
Association Incorporated
03 9481 0800
http://vaeai.org.au
http://www.rmit.edu.au/
scholarships/northcote
Applications have closed for
2014. For the 2015 intake, see
the VAEAI or RMIT website for
updates.
The Northcote Trust Book Vouchers
The purpose of this award is to assist students by providing
vouchers for the purchase of text books. Up to ten are offered
each year.
Murup Barak Institute (The
University of Melbourne)
Mr Michael Martin
03 8344 5330
See the website or contact the
university office for dates.
The Puggy Hunter Memorial
Scholarship Scheme
The Scheme is for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
undertaking studies in one of the following professions:
Aboriginal health work, allied health, dentistry/oral health,
health promotion, medicine, mental health, midwifery, enrolled
or registered nursing. This scholarship is for entry level or
graduate entry level courses only; Certificate IV and above.
Funding is not available for postgraduate study.
Australian College of Nursing
1800 688 628
[email protected]
http://www.acn.edu.au/australiangovernment-scholarships
Applications open 21 July 2014,
and close September 2014.
Tynan-Eyre Memorial Scholarship
for Year 10 Koorie Students
Sponsored by the Victorian Police Blue Ribbon Foundation, this
scholarship is valued at $400 and is available for one year for
a Koorie student currently completing Year 10 in a Victorian
school.
Childhood Development
on the deadlines and other
scholarships.
Victorian College of the Arts and
Melbourne Conservatorium of
Music Scholarships
The VCA-MCM offer a number of scholarships designed to
provide assistance to talented Indigenous Australian students
in overcoming barriers to university education by alleviating
some of the costs associated with higher education study.
http://vca-mcm.unimelb.edu.au/
wilin_scholarships
deadlines
Wannik Education Scholarships
Twenty scholarships awarded each year to Koorie students
completing Year 10 in a Victorian government school and
intending to go on to study Year 11 and complete the VCE or
equivalent. Each scholarship is valued at $5,000 ($2,500 per
year) and is available for two years.
Childhood Development
03 9637 3529
on the deadlines and other
scholarships.
Yalari Scholarships
The Rosemary Bishop Indigenous Education Scholarship
program aims to provide Indigenous children with the
opportunity to access a first class education at one of
Australia’s high achieving secondary boarding schools.
http://www.yalari.org/scholarships1/
Scholarships.aspx
closed. See the website for
updates on the 2015 intake.
57
Jade Solomon’s
Jade Solomon is a young woman from the
Gubi Gubi and Manero tribes. Jade was
raised in East Gippsland, where her father
was born.
Jade is a radiographer. Radiographers are
medical scientists who take images (moving
and still) of the insides of human bodies.
Using these images, such as x-rays and
scans, radiographers help in investigating
and diagnosing illness/physical problems.
We ask Jade how she ended up in the
medical field.
58
Hi Jade – tell us about your school days?
From Year 7-10 I went to Nagle College in Bairnsdale,
and then I went to Methodist Ladies College (on a
scholarship) for Year 11 and 12.
What was it like changing schools in Year 11?
It was a bit difficult at first adjusting from going to a
co-ed school to one that was all girls. But I fitted in after
a while. I found that at MLC the girls were more focused
on their school work.
Who helped you in the move to a new school?
The teachers were really supportive , and it was a
welcoming environment.
I remember in the hospitality class the teacher would
bring in food and coffee for the class. The teachers
would give out their phone numbers for us to call them
if we needed any help with our work.
Medical Investigations
What did you do after Year 12?
I went to Ballarat University, to study nursing. It was a
very social town, lots of uni students. I lived with two
students, a girl and a guy, who were studying drama
and musical theatre. We still hang out today, 10
years later.
I tried the nursing course for 2 years- I liked the
medical side, but I wasn’t sure if nursing itself was
for me.
I was also working at the Country Fire Authority,
in administration. When the CFA job finished,
I was looking for work. The girl I was sharing
a house with moved to Sydney, so I moved
there too.
In Sydney I worked in a Creative MP3/
Multimedia company, doing office
administration. I also worked doing
bookwork and accounts for a commercial
real estate and for a restauranteur.
I ended up wanting to come home to
Melbourne though, because my sister had
a baby.
How did you end up studying Radiography?
Well when I studied nursing I liked the
medical/scientific side, and radiography is
focused on that.
Radiographers are medical imaging
technologists. We do X-rays, CT scans,
Fluoroscopy studies, Angiography, and other
types of medical imaging as well. My favourite
thing about the job is the variety, you can be
doing a general x-ray, and next a CT scan, you
rotate using different techniques and every patient
has a different issue to investigate.
RADIOGRAPHERS: THEIR TOOLS OF INVESTIGATION.
Radiographers using different
imaging techniques to help
investigate what is happening in a
patient’s body. Here are some of their
tools:
X-rays Taking 2D images of the
body’s internal organs or bones to help
diagnose conditions or diseases.
Computer Tomography (CT) scans
A medical imaging procedure that uses
x-rays and digital computer technology
to create cross-section images of the
body. It can make an image of every
type of body structure at once, including
bone, blood vessels and soft tissue.
Fluoroscopy A study of moving body
structures--similar to an X-ray “movie.”
A continuous X-ray beam is passed
through the body part being examined.
The beam is transmitted to a TV-like
monitor so that the body part and its
motion can be seen in detail.
Angiography A medical imaging
technique used to visualize the inside,
or lumen, of blood vessels and organs of
the body, with particular interest in the
arteries, veins and the heart chambers
What message do you have for Koorie students
who are studying at the moment?
There are many different pathways to get to what
you want to do. It’s important to work hard but you
don’t need to get the perfect ATAR score, it’s not the
be all and end all. You can go a different way.
Top Image: An early X-ray picture (Radiograph)
taken at a public lecture by Wilhelm Röntgen
(1845–1923) of Albert von Kölliker’s left hand.
59
As staff, we are here to invest in your dreams.
OUR PEOPLE
Our
Indigenous
Management
Team
Our
Indigenous
Student
Services
Team
Professor Mark Rose
Executive Director
Dr Pettina Love
Albury-Wodonga
Nellie Green
Manager, Indigenous
Student Services
Kym Walker
Bendigo
Mick Coombes
Indigenous
Employment Co-ordinator
Renee Sleigh
Melbourne
Belinda Philp
Mildura
OUR LOCATION
Mildura Campus
Albury-Wodonga Campus
Shepparton Campus
Bendigo Campus
Melbourne Campus
60
Lisa Zabadal
Executive Assistant
Sianlee Harris
Mildura
Aunty Joy Murphy Wandin
University Elder
Sharonlee Post
Shepparton
Let our staff assist you, to start your
University journey with us.
Indigenous Student Services:
• Albury-Wodonga:
02 6024 9796
• Bendigo:
03 5444 7812
• Melbourne:
03 9479 3817 or
03 9479 5806
03 5051 4046
• Mildura:
03 5820 8629
• Shepparton:
Indigenous Employment: 03 9479 6678
~ The Wurreker (Message Carriers)
This is a simplified version of the painting
about Wile the Possum and Tyuling the
Goanna. Wile and Tyuling (below) are the
totems of learning. They reach out to all
Koorie communities to carry the message
of the need for Koories to gain greater
knowledge.
Artist: Kevin J. Williams • Wemba Wemba
Calling ...
all 2014 Year 12
Koorie Students
Dear Koorie Year 12 Student,
Firstly we want to congratulate you on reaching your final year of school. The Victorian Aboriginal
Education Association Incorporated (VAEAI) is very proud of your achievement. Last year 384 Koorie
students completed Year 12 in Victoria. Each year we are seeing an increase in the number of Koorie
students who are completing VCE or VCAL.
VAEAI celebrated this success last year by hosting the first Koorie Year 12 Statewide graduation.
VAEAI also produced a Statewide Koorie Year 12 Yearbook.
This year we are looking to do it again!
We would like to include you in the Yearbook and invite you to the Koorie Statewide graduation.
A page in the Yearbook will be dedicated to you, with your photo and your answers to the student
profile.
IMPORTANT: We will not include your contact details in the yearbook or share your contact
details for reasons of privacy.
To be included in the Yearbook, you just have to:
1. Be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander student studying Year 12 in Victoria in 2014
2. Complete your student profile by filling in the registration form overleaf (your answers will be
stored on our VAEAI database). Registration forms can also be downloaded from our website:
http://www.vaeai.org.au/news-and-events/fx-articles cfm?loadref=53&id=69.
The 2013 Koorie Yearbook
with student profiles
3. Email or post us the form back together with a photo (if you send the photo separately please
make sure your name is attached so we can match it to your profile). The cut off date for inclusion
in the Yearbook is 7 Nov 2014.
When the Yearbook has been printed we will post you a copy. This will be a record for you and your
family to keep. We believe that by publishing the Yearbook your success will inspire more Koorie
students in communities around Victoria to go on to Year 12.
We wish you all the best with completing your studies this year and with your plans after Year 12.
Warm Regards,
Geraldine Atkinson
President - VAEAI
61
VAEAI Year 12 Koorie Yearbook & Magazine
Registration Form 2014
Your Name
Your Address
Your Email
Your Phone no
Your age
Your clan/tribe/area
The name of your school
Are you studying through VCE or VCAL?
(please state which one)
Now that you have completed Year 12, what do
you want to do next?
Who is your role model and why?
A message from your parent/guardian.
(please include name)
If under 18, do you have consent from your parent/
guardian to appear in the VAEAI Year 12 Koorie
Yearbook? (please answer either Yes or No)
If you are under 18 and have not received consent from your parent/guardian we will not be able to include you in the Yearbook or Magazine. If
you or your parent/guardian have any questions, please contact VAEAI. Your details and photo will not be used for any purpose other than as
an entry in the VAEAI Year 12 Koorie Yearbook 2014 and VAEAI Year 12 Koorie Magazine 2014.
Please post or email your completed registration form to [email protected] or mail to P.O. BOX 113, Northcote 3070. Please don’t forget to
include a photo of yourself (electronic version preferred) that is clearly labelled with your name. Alternately you can download the form from:
http://www.vaeai.org.au/news-and-events/fx-articles.cfm?loadref=53&id=69
The cut off date for inclusion in the Yearbook is Friday, 7 Nov 2014.
62
student support: KEY CONTACTS
VAEAI Office
144 Westbourne Grove ; PO Box 113
Northcote VIC 3070
Phone: 94810800 • Fax: 94814072
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.vaeai.org.au
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vaeai#
Wurreker Brokers
VAEAI employs eight Wurreker brokers, one based in each of the following Victorian
regions and who can help to connect you with training opportunities. If you are interested
in Vocational Training:
Region
Wurreker broker and contact Phone Nunber
Central Highlands Wimmera Peter Lovett
403 Main Road
Ballarat VIC 3350
[email protected]
4308 0780
Central Gippsland
Margaret Atkinson
[email protected]
0409 545 693
East Gippsland
Nicole Hood
Level 1, 210 Main St
Bairnsdale VIC 3875
[email protected]
0417 104 998
5152 1188
Goulburn Valley
Robert Britten
31 Wyndham St
Shepparton VIC 3632
[email protected]
0418 128 255
Loddon Campaspe
Robert Saunders
Loddon Campaspe
[email protected]
0417 038 034
Metropolitan Melbourne
Clinton Edwards
144 Westbourne Grove
Northcote VIC 3070
[email protected]
0439 353 846
Murray Valley
VACANT
0433 800 286
South Western
Joshua Edwards
135 Kepler St
Warnambool VIC 3280
[email protected]
0408 335 379
63
TAFE Koorie Units
Many TAFE and some universities have Koorie Units with dedicated staff – Koorie Liaison
Officers – employed specifically to assist Koorie students to choose and complete their
courses.
Koorie Liaison Officers (KLOs) operate within most Victorian TAFEs and are available
to assist Koorie students throughout their studies. KLOs are Koorie people employed to
provide course information, pathways into employment or further education, Abstudy/
Centrelink information, and tutoring.
Institution
contact
Phone Nunber
Bendigo Regional Institute of
TAFE
[email protected]
1300 554 248 (and ask to
Federation Training (combines
Central Gippsland Institute of TAFE & East
Gippsland Institute of TAFE)
Joanne Wilson
jo.wilson@
federationtraining.edu.au
Box Hill Institute of TAFE
Koorie Liaison Officer
speak to the Koorie Support Unit)
5127 0237
9286 9891
(Monday, Tuesday, Thursday)
Chisholm Institute of TAFE
Koorie Liaison Unit
[email protected]
Gordon Institute of TAFE
Cathy May
Aboriginal Liaison Officer
[email protected]
Goulburn Ovens Institute of
TAFE
Kangan Institute
1300 468 233 (and ask to
speak to the Centre for Koorie
Education)
Indigenous Education
Centre
[email protected]
Northern Melbourne Institute
of TAFE
South West Institute of TAFE
5225 0859
9279 2357
9269 1200 (and ask to speak to
the Koorie Services Centre)
[email protected]
1300 648 911 (and ask to
speak to the Koorie Community
Education Officer)
Sunraysia TAFE
5022 3666 (and ask to speak
to the Koorie Liaison Officer)
64
Swinburne University of
Technology TAFE
Lea Jones
Indigenous Liaison Officer
[email protected]
William Angliss Institute of
TAFE
Jon Belling
National Community
Initiatives Coordinator
Koorie Liaison Officer
[email protected]
Wodonga Institute of TAFE
Aboriginal Liaison Officer
[email protected]
9214 6965
02 6055 6638
University Koorie Units
Indigenous Higher Education Units are located in universities around Victoria.
These units provide support to Indigenous students, assist with academic studies, create
a network of Indigenous students and academics and provide an Indigenous presence on
university campuses.
University
Contact
Phone Nunber
Australian Catholic
University
Jim-baa-yer Indigenous Higher
Education Unit
9953 3004
Deakin University
Institute of Koorie Education
[email protected]
5227 2538
or 1800 063 383
Federation University
Lorraine Coutts
Aboriginal Education Liaison Officer
[email protected]
5327 6929
La Trobe University
See
student-services for the contact
details of each campus
Monash University
Jason Brailey
Coordinator
Indigenous Academic Engagement &
ITAS
[email protected]
9905 1507
RMIT University
Level 4, Building 12 at the City
campus
9925 2000 (and ask to
speak to the Ngarara Willim
Centre)
Swinburne University
Lea Jones
Indigenous Liaison Officer
[email protected]
9214 6965
University of Melbourne Vicky Peters
Student recruitment and support
[email protected]
9035 3032
Victoria University
9919 2836
Moondani Balluk Academic Unit
[email protected]
65
ZO460776
66
The Koorie Education Workforce
The Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood Development’s (DEECD)
Koorie Education Workforce can provide a range of supports for Koorie students and their
families on school issues.
Koorie Engagement Support Officers in particular can play a key role in assisting you to
work with your school to resolve any issues that might be impacting on your education,
connect you to other support services, and provide you with information about postschool pathways.
Contact a Koorie Education Coordinator, who will put you in contact with a Koorie
Engagement Support Officer:
DEECD REGIONAL SERVICES GROUP – KOORIE EDUCATION CONTACT LIST
Koorie Education Coordinators (KECs)
Contact
Phone
Email
Region
Sandra Stewart
5051 1321
[email protected]
North Western Region (regional)
James Atkinson
9488 9424
[email protected]
North Western Region (metro)
Michael Graham
9488 9424
[email protected]
North Western Region (regional)
Sandy Hodge (Acting)
5310 5329
[email protected]
South Western Region (regional)
Richard Fry (Acting)
5215 5409
[email protected]
South Western Region (metro)
Deb Kiley
5761 2114
[email protected]
North Eastern Region (regional)
Katrina Penfold
9265 2426
[email protected]
North Eastern Region (metro)
Lisa Anderson
9794 3503
[email protected]
South Eastern Region (metro)
Zack Haddock
5127 0407
[email protected]
South Eastern Region (regional)
67
Register for the 2014 Koorie Year 12 Student Book before friday 7 november 2014
Fill in and send us the form on page 62 or download the form at
http://www.vaeai.org.au/news-and-events/fx-articles.cfm?loadref=53&id=69
VAEAI Celebrates a Record Number
of Koorie Year 12 Graduates
Ms Atkinson also highlighted the some of the personal
stories of Koorie graduates from 2013:
• Alana Ryan from Ballarat with an ATAR score of 99.2.
Alana is undertaking a Bachelor of Arts at Melbourne
University this year and is interested in pursuing a
career in education or international relations.
• Jirra Moffat from Gippsland – the youngest of a family
of 11 kids and the first to complete Year 12 and go onto
university.
• Twins Kelsey and Allira Brown from the Boort District
- one is going on to study Fine Arts and the other
Speech Pathology.
• Jarman Impey and Karl Amon, both young men were
drafted to Port Adelaide and starting careers in the
AFL this year.
To record the stories of graduates VAEAI produced a
Koorie Statewide Yearbook. VAEAI will grow the Year 12
event each year.

68
Aaron Pederson addresses year 12 Koorie Graduates.
On Friday 14 February 2014 the Victorian Aboriginal Education
Association Incorporated celebrated the first Koorie Statewide
Year 12 graduation ceremony. Families travelled from across
the State to share in this milestone event.
The Victorian Education Minister Martin Dixon, and the then
Victorian Minister for Higher Education and Skills Peter Hall, both
spoke at the graduation ceremony. Minister Dixon and former
Minister Hall presented graduates with graduation yearbooks and
certificates alongside VAEAI’s President, Geraldine Atkinson.
Gaetano Greco, the Mayor of Darebin, was also present to share in
the success of Koorie graduates and their families.
Actor Aaron Pedersen was a special guest speaker and gave a
commencement address to graduates. Aaron spoke about his drive
to move from Alice Springs to Melbourne to finish Year 12 in the
late 1980s, when not many Aboriginal people were completing high
school. Aaron then went on to become a journalist with the ABC and
of course is a successful television and film actor today.
VAEAI’s President Geraldine Atkinson gave a speech to graduates
urging them “to make the most of your hard work, to call on your
strengths, your talents, your dreams, to find something that you
really love to do, and to make that your career.”

Year 12 Koorie Graduates at the ceremony.
Koorie Class of 2013
Graduate Stories
Aaron Brooke
Ajuka Julin-Turner
Alana Ryan
Aleesha McCrae
Alexander B. Monks
Alice Skye Anderson
Aliesha Newman
Allira Brown
Amy Paten
Andrew Murray
Angaline Thalasinos
Angel Harrison-Firebrace
Annaleisha Daykin*
April Barry
Arron Ryan
Ashley Blandon
Ashley Johnson
Billie–Jo Best
Bohdi Walker
Brenden Johnson
Chloe Geddie
Dakota Henderson
Dale Marsh
Danielle Edwards
Danielle Jones
Danielle Speak
David Perry
Dean Churchyett*
Donovan Jones
Dylan Murphy
Dylan Walsh
Dylan Wilkinson
Edward Bryant
Ellie White
Emily Roberts
Emma King
Erika Grace Johanna Kyle
Grace Bin Swani
Hannah Mennen
Hayden McEwan
Heather Ward
Jade Kelly
Jae Crilly*
James Taylor
Jarman Impey
Jas Knox
Jaxson Mahy
Jayden Glossa
Jesse Heffernan
Jessie Joyce
Jirra Moffat*
Joel Kilgour
Joseph Matheson
Josh Leishman
Karl Amon
Katie-Rose Lewis
Keia McIntyre
Keisha Nash*
Kelsey Brown
Kennisha Edwards
Kiera Chavez
Kori Franklin
Liam Flanagan
Lyra Walker-Mackay
Madison McCarthy
Mariah Briggs
Mariah McClelland
Mason Johnson
Mason Peter
Melanie Warren-Caskie
Mirikki Love
Monique Kirby
Nakita Muggeridge
Nathan Krause*
Nioka Rose Thorpe-Williams
Pamela J Bowden-O’Leary
Phoebe Wilson
Raymond Adams
Remy Nicholson
Renni Cameron*
Rosie Kilvert
Savannah Ki Harrison
Shanara Stewart
Shani Blyth
Sharna Clarke
Sharney Wise
Simone Philp
Sinead Ryan
Skye Marsden
Teghan Allan
Tiffany Marygold
Tiffany Tilbrook
Tori Day
Tyrone Urquhart-Singh
Zoe Franz-Eaton
Zzak Togo-Singh
*These student profiles do not appear in the following pages as they are featured earlier in the magazine.
Keisha Nash & Jirra Moffat on page 11
Dean Churchyett & Renni Cameron on page 12
Nathan Krause & Annaleisha Daykin on page 13
Jae Crilly on page 15
69
Raymond Adams | 19 years
Biripi
VCE | Bairnsdale Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 I.T and Sport
Your biggest challenge while studying Not doing Year 11 VCE and going straight into Year 12 VCE
Your role model and why Paul Carroll (Clontarf). He has helped me at school to finish Year 12. I can talk to him about anything. He is always helping the other kids.
Have a gap year and then go to University
Your final year in three words Long, Study, Hard!
Teghan Allan | 18 years
Gunditjmara
VCE | Emerald Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Health and Human Development/ Physical Education
Keeping up with sport as well as a job while completing Year 12
My Mum, because she has sacrificed so much for me and my family, she is the reason why I want to succeed and do well. Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next
I want to do exercise and sport science and become a Dr. in Physiotherapy. Nerve Wracking, Exciting, Hopeful!
70
Karl Amon | 18 years
Noonuccal
VCE | Haileybury College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Sociology and Visual Communications
Your biggest challenge while studying Balancing my studies and sporting endeavours
I have different types of role models. My family are the ones who I will always look up to and are always there for me. My sporting role model is Scott Pendlebury who I love to watch due to his professionalism and the way he goes about his football
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next My aim is to make it into the AFL. Although I have a strong interest in landscape architecture in which I aim to pursue at some stage.
Your final year in three words Demanding, Fun Journey!
Parent/Guardian Message Karl was accepted into RMIT but also got drafted to Port Adelaide currently in Dubai training. Congratulations on a successful year. Love Mum and Dad and Lucy.
Alice Skye Anderson | 18 years
Wergaia
VCE | Horsham Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Studio Art, Biology and Literature.
Your biggest challenge while studying Remaining calm during the stresses that come with Year 12 was definitely hard at times!
My whole family have already been great role models for me. In particular my aunties Eleanor Bourke & Estelle French. They have both done amazing things in their lives and in the Aboriginal community. Their stories and what I have learnt from them have encouraged me to embrace my heritage with pride.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I plan on going to University next year to pursue my interest in the arts and science.
A message to other Koorie students currently in school I think it’s important to leave an impression and show people that Koorie students are no different from any other students.
Parent/Guardian Message Alice’s secondary school success has been a credit to her since entering the SEAL program in Year 7, she has excelled. I am proud of her achievements, and her father would be too – to know that she has strived for equality and goodness.
71
Billie–Jo Best | 18 years
VCE | Robinvale P-12 College
English & Psychology
Maintaining motivation and trying not to get too distracted
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Hopefully continue on with studying at Uni in the area of Health Sciences
Challenging, Fun, Memorable!
We are all so proud of what you have accomplished over the past 18 years, you always worked hard to achieve what you wanted and we are sure you will continue this throughout the rest of your life. Thank you for being a role model to your younger siblings. You have inspired us all well done love mum dad and family. P.S. You must take after your dad.
April Barry | 18 years
Wiradjuri
VCAL | Maffra Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Community Projects (I’m working with my Aboriginal tribe)
Your biggest challenge while studying Keeping up with all the work, making sure I hand everything in to my teachers
Your role model and why My family friend, when I was younger I would always look up to her and now she is so successful in her life.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Work as a childcare worker, as I’m doing children’s services at TAFE at the moment.
72
Your final year in three words Fun, Stressful, Unforgettable!
Parent/Guardian message I’m proud of you and your achievements! Love Mum.
Grace Bin Swani | 18 years
Bard
VCE | Genazzano FCJ College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Studio Art
Your biggest challenge while studying Being away from home and being at a boarding house. Living in a big city
Your role model and why My mum because she encouraged me to go to school and did what is best for me
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I would like to go to uni and become a primary school teacher
Your final year in three words Friendship, Inspiring, Achievable!
Parent/Guardian’s Message Grace you are too deadly! We are very proud of you. Love Mum
Ashley Blandon | 18 years
Ngunnawal
VCE | Patterson River Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Studio Art, Health and Human Development
Your biggest challenge while studying Staying motivated and keeping up to date.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Study Photography and Arts at University. I hope to have my own photography business in the near future.
Your final year in three words Challenging, Rewarding, Enjoyable!
Parent/Guardian’s Message Thank you to my parents for all the love and support throughout my schooling. Without you (Donna and Geoff) I wouldn’t be where I am today. Love you very much.
73
Shani Blyth | 18 years
VCE | Wonthaggi Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Art
Your biggest challenge while studying Finishing and doing homework; always had distractions
While I was studying Year 12 I was doing an indigenous traineeship at ANZ Bank, so I wish to move upwards through the bank, or try to find a traineeship that’s full time so I can experience other jobs and learn new things.
Your final year in three words Stressful, Fun, Supported!
I think that other Koorie students should take anything that’s offered to them because the worst thing that could happen is that you don’t get the scholarship or the traineeship, but there is always room to go for others. I think doing Year will give them confidence to excel
Parent/Guardian’s Message Good on ya for completing Year 12! Well done.
Pamela Josephine Bowden-O’Leary | 18 years
Kamilaroi
VCE | Laverton P-12 College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Physical Education, Outdoor Education
Your biggest challenge while studying Staying concentrated.
Your role model and why Mum and Dad – they have been there for me my whole life and have helped me accomplish things that I couldn’t have done alone.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Become a Victorian police officer A message to other Koorie students currently in school Stay in school and complete Year 12; it will be one of the most exciting experiences and you will make yourself and your family proud.
Parent/Guardian’s Message
74
I’m quite proud of Pamela’s progress in school. Her achievements to me are outstanding and she has great potential and I feel she will have a very successful career in her future. It is now her time to shine.
Mariah Briggs | 18 years
Gunditjmara / Yorta-Yorta
VCE | Warrnambool College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 I’ve enjoyed all my subjects studied but to pick one it would be Physical Education (PE).
Your biggest challenge while studying The work load and staying motivated to complete VCE.
Most definitely my mum because she was my number one support. Out of all the times I wanted to give up she kept reassuring me of the regret I’d have, and told me that I could be a leader for younger Aboriginal students.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Most likely work in the health/education field. I’d love to work in remote communities, so want to be qualified in an area to allow me to do this
Your final year in three words Challenging, Worth it, Fun!
Aaron Brooke | 18 years
Gunditjmara
VCAL | Keilor Downs College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 English
Your biggest challenge while studying It wasn’t a challenge for me, I thought I went well
Your role model and why My role models would be Anthony Mundine or David Beckham because I look up to them and would love to be doing what they are. Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Hopefully I can become a professional sportsman, if not find a job and save my money.
Your final year in three words Fun, Exciting, Happy!
75
Allira Brown | 18 years
Gunditjmara
VCE | Boort District P-12 School
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Art and Outdoor & Environment Studies
Your biggest challenge while studying Time management
Your role model and why My family because they gave me the most encouragement to be able to get through.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Study Fine Arts at University.
Your final year in three words Quick, Stressful, Memorable!
As a parent I am so proud of both my twin girls Allira and Kelsey being twins and completing Year 12. They are both going on to university in 2014 and again our whole family is so proud of their achievements to date.
Kelsey Brown | 18 years
Gunditjmara
VCE | Boort District P-12 School
Keeping up the motivation
My friends and family because of all the support they have given me
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I hope to go to University and study Speech Pathology
76
Outdoor Ed and Psychology
Hard, Exciting, Tiring!
As a parent I am so proud of both my twin girls Allira and Kelsey being twins and completing Year 12. They are both going on to university in 2014 and again our whole family is so proud of their achievements to date.
Edward Bryant | 17 years
Yorta Yorta
VCE | Shepparton High School.
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Philosophy and Music Performance.
Your biggest challenge while studying Focusing and Distractions
Your role model and why Some of my cousins because they finished Year 12 when the rate for Aboriginal graduates was very low.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Dance in Melbourne, at a dance company named Patrick Studio’s Australia that I got accepted to, or Robert Sturrocks Industry Dance Company which I also got accepted into.
Your final year in three words Hard, Happy, Relief!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Stick at school no matter how hard you may find it, because in the end it is such a great achievement.
Parent/Guardian message I’m proud of you for completing Year 12 and happy you are going to chase your dreams my son.
Kiera Chavez | 18 years
Wamba Wamba
VCAL
| Thornbury Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 English and Food Technology
Your biggest challenge while studying Time management for study.
Your role model and why My mum; she encouraged me to finish high school.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Going to Deakin University, Institute of Koorie Education to do a Bachelor of Education to be a primary school teacher.
Your final year in three words Fun, Educational, Memorable!
77
Sharna Clarke | 17 years
Gunditjmara / Kirrae Wurrong
VCE | Victoria University Secondary College
(Brimbank Campus)
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Legal Studies and Psychology.
Your biggest challenge while studying My biggest challenge while studying was to remain focused and motivated in achieving my academic goals.
Your role model and why My role model is my mum. She’s a really strong and resilient person who’s accomplished a lot in her life, even after setbacks
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next My goal is to next be enrolled in a nursing course at Victoria University. That’s one step closer to my dream of being a Paramedic.
Your final year in three words Challenging, Tough, Worthwhile!.
Words cannot express the happiness I feel about my daughter Sharna’s dedication, drive and motivation throughout her school years. She has always had the confidence and the ability to forge ahead even in difficult times. She is focused on her profession of nursing/paramedic and I am very proud of her accomplishments.
Tori Day | 18 years
Yorta Yorta / Gunditjmara
VCE | Shepparton High School.
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Philosophy and Music Performance.
Your biggest challenge while studying Distractions by other students.
Your role model and why My older brother Thomas, as he has done so much in the last few years for others and his own tribe.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I would really like to travel the world and do volunteer work
Your final year in three words Proud, Happy, Scared!
A message to Koorie students currently in school To keep going and finish Year 12 so you can have the qualifications for your dream job.
Parent/Guardian message We are very proud that our baby of seven kids has gone all the way in completing Year 12, Couldn’t be happier!
78
Danielle Edwards | 18 years
VCE | Sale College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Art, Studio Art
Your biggest challenge while studying Finding motivation. So much work can be too hard to manage. Not wanting to disappoint anyone.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Still working that out. Your final year in three words. Determination, Frustrating, Challenging
A message to Koorie students currently in school Listen to the advice given to you. Don’t give up. Look at your options, there is more than one way to get to where you’re going. If you lose motivation talk to someone who can help.
Kennisha Edwards | 19 years
Yorta Yorta / Wemba Wemba
VCE | St Joseph’s College Echuca
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 My favourite subject is Health and Human Development
Your biggest challenge while studying I’m also doing a School-Based Traineeship, Cert II in Business. It’s hard catching up on my classes when I miss a day because I work in the Bank.
My role model is my Aunty Kellyann Edwards, she was the first to graduate high school out of our family. She is a successful worker and she is helping her community; she also loves her job. She has inspired me to finish school and help my community.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Have a gap year and do some casual work; the year after I want to go to university and do social work.
Your final year in three words Extremely Hard Work!!!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Just try your best at everything you do, don’t give up on yourself
I’m proud of Kennisha for completing Year 12 and her traineeship with the bank and that she has grown into a healthy young lady and Koorie role model for the community of Echuca. We wish Kennisha nothing but the best for the future.
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Liam Flanagan | 17 years
Larraka
VCE | St Patrick’s College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 VET Sport and Recreation
Your biggest challenge while studying Concentrating; work load
Your role model and why Dad; just because he’s always there. Just in general been a good role model.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Go back home and hope to start my apprenticeship full time.
Your final year in three words Fast, exciting, intense!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Stay in school all the way through to Year 12.
Parent/Guardian message Liam has come a long way since he was a quiet shy boy in Year 10. Comes from Darwin.
Kori Franklin | 18 years
VCAL | Bacchus Marsh College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 English and Health & Human Development
Your biggest challenge while studying Completing work to meet deadlines
Your role model and why My mum, because she always remains stronger through hard times
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Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Study tourism, and youth work
Your final year in three words Hard, Stressful, Worth it!
Zoe Franz-Eaton | 17 years
VCE | Lyndhurst Secondary College
Business Management, Psychology
Trying to make time with school work, personal time and work, it was challenging to make time in general for anything when studying.
My mum, because she is one of the strongest people I have known, she tries everything and she has always tried to give me every opportunity to continue in school activities.
I want to go to Chisholm and complete a Diploma in Nursing and then University for Midwifery
Quick, Interesting, Hard work!
Never give up! Parent/Guardian message For who we see and those we hear we speak a clear message for hope and future dreams; good luck on your journey of discovery congratulations love to you our baby girl! Mum and Dad. Chloe Geddie | 17 years
Frankston
VCAL | Mount Erin College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 I don’t have general subjects but my favourite thing about VCAL is that I get to choose my own projects throughout the year
Your biggest challenge while studying The biggest challenge was all of the distractions
Your role model and why My role model is my dad, because he has taught me that even though life has bumps and troubles, there is always a way to overcome them!
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I wish to successfully complete my traineeship at Peninsula Health and be on my way to pursuing a career in drug and alcohol rehab
Your final year in three words Fun, Busy, Challenging!
Parent/Guardian message Well done we are proud of you
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Jayden Glossa | 18 years
Wurundjeri
VCE | Laverton College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Physical Education and VET music
Your biggest challenge while studying The large amount of homework; having a social life; practicing music for performance.
Your role model and why Matthew Lloyd, because he is an awesome leader and a great person.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Something to do with music or electronics.
Your final year in three words Long, Tiring, Rewarding!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Don’t stop trying because at the end of the year you will have the sweet feeling of success and accomplishment.
Parent/Guardian message Well done we are both very proud of what you have achieved this year. Love you.
Angel Harrison-Firebrace | 17 years
Yorta Yorta / Bidwal / Gunai
VCE | Lakes Entrance Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Business Management, Health and Human Development
Your role model and why My mum and dad because of their encouragement when times were low and their love and support.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Enjoy the summer and find work and my independence
Your final year in three words. Well done we are very proud of you Angel, had some challenging times but got through it. With Love Mum and Dad and Family.
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Jesse Heffernan | 19 years
Yorta Yorta
VCE | Catholic College, Bendigo
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Systems Engineering
Your biggest challenge while studying Studying around my family
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next? Change the world through my designs
Your final year in three words Tedious, Informative, Revealing!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Don’t let people tell you that you cannot do something!
Parent/Guardian message Jess you inspire me every day and challenge me to follow my dreams.
Dakota Henderson | 17 years
Yorta Yorta / Wiradjuri
VCE | Camberwell Grammar
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Visual Communications
Your biggest challenge while studying I love graphic design, so focussing on other subjects besides Visual Communications was a challenge
Your role model and why My grandparents Merle and Alick Jackomos. They were key players and activists in the Aboriginal rights movement and worked hard to make a difference in the lives of Aboriginal people. Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I would like to study Graphic Design at Swinburne University of Technology or RMIT and eventually start my own graphic design company
Your final year in three words Fast, Fun, Exciting!
Parent/Guardian message Words cannot express how proud I am of you. I am looking forward to the next stage in your journey. The world is your oyster.
Love Mum and Damien.
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Jarman Impey | 18 years
Yorta Yorta
VCAL | Shepparton High School
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Physical Education
Your biggest challenge while studying When I was away playing footy and I had to study.
Your role model and why Skye Marsden, because she’s always doing her work and always so organised
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I want to play footy and be a personal trainer
Your final year in three words. Hard, Exciting, Fun!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Stay in school, study, be a role model for younger students
Parent/Guardian message Stay in school, don’t be a tool.
Ashley Johnson | 18 years
Swan Hill
VCE | Swan Hill College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 English; because it is an interesting subject that is easy to
understand.
Your biggest challenge while studying Motivation Your role model and why My sister, Teneille as she has completed year 12 and has helped me a lot throughout my VCE studies
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I’m considering having a gap year, just leave my options open and contemplate my career pathway for the near future
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Your final year in three words Exhausting, Fun, Overwhelming!
Brenden Johnson | 18 years
Wamba
VCAL | Robinvale P-12 College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Work skills
Your biggest challenge while studying Staying at school!
Your role model and why Mark Olive – ‘The Black Olive’
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Get a full time job Your final year in three words Fun, Long, Hard!
Mason Johnson | 17 years
VCAL | Traralgon College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 VET
Your biggest challenge while studying Staying in line and accepting figures of authority.
Your role model and why My pop and my brother.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Get an apprenticeship or a really good job so I can down the track buy a farm.
Your final year in three words Finally finished, Massive achievement, Happy about it!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Keep at it; doing Year 12 is the best thing to do. It makes it a lot easier to get a job. Always ask for help as there are always people wanting to help.
Parent/Guardian message Good effort, never thought you would go this far. So happy with you.
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Danielle Jones | 18 years
Victoria
VCE | Highview Christian Community College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Animal Studies, Studio Arts, English
Your biggest challenge while studying The high expectations of year 12 including; becoming an adult keeping on top of studies, as well as a social life!
As my parents, their role in my life was crucial to be able to reach my full potential. They play a vital role in my life teaching me the hardships of society,encouraging determination through and overall offering the neverending love they had for me as their daughter.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next At the end of this year I will have completed an Animal Studies course qualifying me to work in any animal industry as a animal attendant, and hopefully gaining employment through this. Your final year in three words Achievement, Thrilling, Unforgettable!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Year 12 was a achievement for me that I will never forget nor regret. I wish for anyone else that has this opportunity to make the most of it!
Parent/Guardian message We are very proud of Danielle’s achievements through year 12!
Donovan Jones | 18 years
Ngaliwuri
VCE | St Patrick’s College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 English, Australian History
Your biggest challenge while studying My biggest was studying for SACs and exams. It took me about 2 hours to finish studying.
Your role model and why My role model is Andrew McLeod because he is the most amazing footy player when he was playing footy for the Adelaide Crows.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I want to go home and start an apprenticeship in Timber Creek to be an electrician.
Your final year in three words Tough, exciting, amazing!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school I hope you all try for your future and I hope you get the work done.
Parent/Guardian message Donovan remote boy from Timber Creek, N.T. 5 years been attending St Pat’s. Come a long way.
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Jessie Joyce | 20 years
VCE | Sale College.
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Outdoor Education, Physical Education
Your biggest challenge while studying Juggling work, school and other commitments, coming back to school as a mature aged student and living up to expectations
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next University, meanwhile a traineeship, involving outdoor sports and recreation.
Your final year in three words Resilience, Completed, Challenging!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Even when you feel like you can’t get through, just talk to someone, and remember that you can achieve it if you really want to.
Congratulations to you Jesse on finally reaching your goals with your VCE we’re all proud of you. You have put in a lot of hard work and have gone through a lot during your time! You’ve finally done it. Jesse again we are so proud of you and your achievements.
Ajuka Julin-Turner | 18 years
South Australia
VCE | Mordialloc Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Media, English, Studio Art
Your biggest challenge while studying Keeping on track with school work
Your role model and why Leon Johnson
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Take a break for a year and travel Your final year in three words Exhausting, Over, Great!
Parent/Guardian message With great success comes great responsibility, proud that you’ve accomplished Year 12 will love you no matter what. Love Mum.
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Jade Kelly | 18 years
Barkindji
VCAL | SuniTafe Central
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Business
Your biggest challenge while studying Keeping on top of my trainee bookwork as well as my studies at school.
Your role model and why My dad because he has taught me so much, inspired me to be better and always encouraged me to go beyond my limits. He has helped me through so much.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Work full-time or full-time casual Your final year in three words. Rewarding, Challenging, Accomplish!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Push through it, it is worth it in the end! Savannah Ki Harrison | 18 years
Murrawarri
VCE | Footscray City College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Health and Human Development
Your biggest challenge while studying Finding the motivation to keep studying throughout the year.
Your role model and why My Mum, Jane Harrison. She is a strong,hardworking, successful woman who has pride in her Aboriginal heritage.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I hope to study and extended Bachelor of Art at Melbourne Uni. I want to help people through social work or Nutrition.
Your final year in three words Exciting, Challenging, Fast!
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Beyond her academic achievements, such as receiving the award for top health student of 2013, as her mum I am proud of Savannah for the person she is. She is 100% herself at all times, makes her own thoughtful decisions, is a real people person, has a strong sense of justice, sticks up for others and is a great role model for her younger sister, who is her best friend too. I look forward to seeing how she will make a contribution to her future, because I know she will!
Joel Kilgour | 17 years
VCE | Wonthaggi Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Geography, Outdoor Education
Your biggest challenge while studying Staying focused for long periods of time.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I would like to have a gap year. Then hopefully go to uni.
Your final year in three words Fun, Challenging, Exciting!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Just try your hardest, it’s not the end of the world if you don’t do as well as you thought you would and have fun while at school.
Rosie Kilvert | 18 years
Wemba Wemba / Gunditjmara
VCAL | Footscray City College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Studio Art and Literature
Your biggest challenge while studying Studying for Exams and SACs.
Your role model and why My Mum because she encouraged me all through the year and is a strong and pround Koorie Woman.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I want to take a gap year and travel and then go to Art school.
Your final year in three words Challenging, Exciting, Difficult!
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Emma King | 18 years
Pinejunga
VCE | Mentone Girls’ Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Chemistry and English Language
Your biggest challenge while studying Trying to find motivation when it all seemed to hard
Your role model and why My Mum as she’s a hard worker and very caring
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I want to go on and study business at university
Your final year in three words Exhausting, Challenging, Rewarding!
Monique Kirby | 18 years
Gunditjmara / Wemba Wemba
VCAL | Thornbury High School
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Maths and my Visual Arts course
Your biggest challenge while studying Keeping up to date with work due to being sick a lot
Your role model and why My mum, ever since I was little she’s always been there for me and inspired me to do great things. She’s always believed in me and has always be a strong person for my brother and I.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I want to do heaps of things, such as become a tattoo artist, do a personal trainers course and also a bar course. Just so that I have so experience in a few things
Your final year in three words Challenging, Exciting, Fun!
Parent/Guardian message I am very proud of Monique, she has grown up to be a beautiful young lady who has a bright future ahead of her.
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Jas Knox | 17 years
VCAL | Sacred Heart College, Geelong
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Personal development and Work Related Skills
Your biggest challenge while studying Juggling work, sport and school
Your role model and why Corrina is a leader in the Wathaurong Community, she is like an Auntie to me. She has overcome great challenges yet still gives her whole self back to young people in our Community. Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Work as a dental nurse, save some money, get a car and home, go to uni and do Oral Health.
Your final year in three words. Memorable, Fun, Sad to be leaving!
Erika Grace Johanna Kyle | 18 years
Bard
VCE | Genazzano FCJ College
Your biggest challenge while studying Living away from home and coping with illness
Your role model and why Both grandparents and parents because of the support they have given me throughout my years at Genazzano, especially during Year 12 and being understanding of my illness.
Tourism or something hands on with children or further my VET certificate.
Friends, Challenging, Impressive!
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Katie-Rose Lewis | 17 years
Yorta Yorta
VCAL | Mornington Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Practical Assessments
Your biggest challenge while studying Organising my time effectively.
Your role model and why My dad – he always finds time for his family despite his hectic work load.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Perhaps work for a while and possibly study more later on.
Your final year in three words Challenging, Rewarding, Exciting!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Remember that great opportunities will present themselves if you are prepared to work hard.
Parent/Guardian message Thank you Jenny Mason from Mornington Secondary College; we truly appreciated your hard work.
Josh Leishman | 18 years
Yorta Yorta
VCE | Mount Clear College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Food, Drama
Your biggest challenge while studying My biggest challenge was asking people for help
Your role model and why My best friend Tahnee, she is always there for me and helps me with my study
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I would like to move to Japan to teach English to young kids or I would like to open my own business.
Your final year in three words Crazy, Fun, Fast!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Never give up and don’t be shy to ask for help.
Parents/Guardian’s message Josh is a caring boy. He loves to help other people and he works hard.
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Mirikki Love | 18 years
Yorta Yorta
VCAL | Thornbury Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Food Technology
Your biggest challenge while studying Focusing
Your role model and why My dad for encouraging me to finish high school.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Would like to go to TAFE and university to study to become a youth worker.
Your final year in three words Memorable, Challenging, Finally!
Jaxson Mahy | 17 years
VCAL | Hampton Park Secondary
Your biggest challenge while studying VET course – Building and Construction
Your biggest challenge while studying Family problems
Your role model and why Arnold Schwartzenegger
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Join the army as a rifleman, complete my IETS and become a chippy
Your final year in three words Fun, Quick, Relaxing!
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Dale Marsh | 19 years
Yorta Yorta
VCE | Lynall Hall
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Music
Your biggest challenge while studying Dedication
Your role model and why Nathan Lovett Murray for what he’s doing for our culture musically
Now that you have completed Year 12 what’s next Work
Your final year in three words Fun, Hard, Achieving!
Parent/Guardian message Well done son on finishing Year 12. Proud of you!
Skye Marsden | 17 years
Gunai Kurnai
VCE/VCAL | Shepparton High School
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Personal Development
Your biggest challenge while studying Being organised and keeping up to date
Your role model and why My parents because they never give up when times are hard and keep their heads high.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Get a full time job and study Social Work. Your final year in three words Challenging, Overwhelming, Exciting!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Finish Year 12, always ask for help and try get into school based
traineeships if you’re not into studying in classrooms. Always try your best, don’t give up because it will be worth it in the end.
Parent/Guardian message Keep your head high, never give up.
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Joseph Matheson | 17 years
Nauiyu Nambiyu
VCE | Lakeview Senior College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Literature
Your biggest challenge while studying To stay focused
Your role model and why My friends and family because they have had a positive influence on my life
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I wish to continue to further my knowledge and education at a tertiary level
Your final year in three words Challenging, Fun, Different!
Tiffany Marygold | 18 years
Plangermairreenner
VCE | Traralgon College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 English, Health and Human Development
Your biggest challenge while studying My biggest challenge was staying focused while I was studying
Your role model and why My mum because she never gives up and because she is so caring and helpful towards other people.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I’m not sure at the moment Your final year in three words Tiring, Challenging, Homework!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Never give up Koorie Pathways Magazine • Issue 01, 2014
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Madison McCarthy | 18 years
Dja Dja-Wurrung
VCE | Padua College Mornington
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Studio Arts, Health and Human Development
Your biggest challenge while studying Time management.
Your role model and why Dad and Mum
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Find a part time job I enjoy and study
Your final year in three words Challenging, Stressful, Rewarding!
Congratulations on your educational achievements – it took strength and determination to see it through – you make us so proud. We wish you a lifetime of success. Lots of love Dad, Mum, Mitch, Gromit and Bresha.
Mariah McClelland | 17 years
Wiradjuri
VCE | Yarrawonga College P-12
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Math Methods, Further Maths and Biology
Your biggest challenge while studying Remaining motivated even though I was isolated and ignored by peers, organisation/planning.
My Dad and Mum because despite them not finishing school they
have persevered to complete Business and Management Diplomas (Dad) and Nursing (Mum) after not being at school for 20 years and raising 4 kids at the same time. They have always supported me despite our socio-economic barriers and taught me that I CAN indeed think big and never give up on what you want you just have to work hard to get it.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I am still contemplating my future at the moment and looking at moving from Yarrawonga to continue with tertiary education
Your final year in three words Challenging, Rewarding, Hard Work!
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Aleesha McCrae | 18 years
Yorta Yorta
VCE | Cranbourne Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Media, English, Studio Art
Your biggest challenge while studying Keeping on track with school work
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Have a gap year and then go to university or TAFE.
Your final year in three words Hectic, Stressful, Draining!
Hayden McEwan | 18 years
Yorta Yorta
VCE | Hume Central Secondary College
Drama, Biology
Putting more time aside for study.
I don’t really have a role model; I’m trying to be the best I can be.
Either go to TAFE or do an apprenticeship
Fun, boring, overwhelming!
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Keia McIntyre | 18 years
Palawa
VCE | Phoenix P-12 Community College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Community services, Health and Human Development, Legal Studies, Business Management
Your biggest challenge while studying Trying to stay motivated during busy times
Your role model and why My family. They have supported me through everything
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Finish my community services course, study law
Your final year in three words Hectic, Amazing, Quick!
Hannah Mennen | 17 years
Wathurong
VCAL | Ballarat Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Literacy
Your biggest challenge while studying Staying on task and getting my work in on time
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Go to TAFE and study a Diploma of Beauty Therapy, or get a full time job
Your final year in three words. Hectic, Scary, Exciting!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Even though Year 12 is hectic, always do your best so you can achieve more.
Parent/Guardian message We are very proud
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Alexander B. Monks | 18 years
Yorta Yorta
VCE | Cranbourne Secondary College
English, Work-Related Skills, Cooking,PDS
Not getting distracted and making sure my work was handed in on time.
My grandmother because she has helped me become the young man I am today.
I will be going to TAFE or getting full time work.
Challenging, Friends, Adventure!
Nakita Muggeridge | 17 years
Wakawaka / Jagura
VCAL | Sunraysia Institute of TAFE
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Business Admin and Children’s Services
Your biggest challenge while studying Concentrating on completing my Senior VCAL, Cert II & III in Business Admin,Cert III Children’s Services and my school-based traineeship.
Your role model and why I don’t have one role model in particular, there are many people in my life who I look up to, including my 3 older sisters and my parents.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Complete my Diploma of Children’s Services and continue working in Business Admin. In the future I would like to work in schools as a Koorie Education Support Officer.
Your final year in three words Interesting, Enjoyable, Challenging!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Stick at it, you will thank yourself for it in the long-run.
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Dylan Murphy | 17 years
Wakka Wakka
VCE | Traralgon Secondary College
Work-Related Skills, Literacy
Staying concentrated on my studies in class
Patty Mills, a Koorie NBA player because of what he has accomplished and he followed his dream.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next A career in sports and work in the community.
Fun, Worthy, Friendship!
Just stick it out and keep going. I’m really proud of my son for finishing Year 12 as it has been a real struggle at times, especially in year 10 when he was struggling do the work. With the support of the Wannik Tutor at the time we worked together to support him through it all. Now he enjoys school and looks forward to going each day.
Andrew Murray | 18 years
Wakka Wakka
VCE | Mary MacKillop Regional College Leongatha
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Legal Studies
Your biggest challenge while studying Staying enthusiastic all year
Your role model and why My Father, because he teaches us to be proud of our culture and who we are
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Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Study Fine Arts at University Your final year in three words Challenging, Hard work, I made it!
Aliesha Newman | 18 years
Pallawa
VCE | Maribyrnong College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Health and Human Development
Your biggest challenge while studying Time management, organisation
Your role model and why My mother is my role model because she is someone I look up to and has done a lot in life.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Take a gap year and then go into the police.
Your final year in three words Challenging, Commitment, Stressful!
Remy Nicholson | 18 years
Swan Hill
VCE | Swan Hill College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Mathematics – because I just understand it better than my other subjects
Your biggest challenge while studying Keeping myself organised
Your role model and why I have no one in particular, there have been a few people that have helped me succeed over my schooling years.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I’m going to do an engineering Apprenticeship
Your final year in three words Satisfied, Relief, Exciting!
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Amy Paten | 17 years
Gunai Kurnai
VCE | Roxburgh College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Psychology
Your role model and why My Mum – she’s the best
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Study Law
Your final year in three words Busy, Fun, Sad!
David Perry | 17 years
Nunga
VCAL | Sale College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12English
Your biggest challenge while studying Attending School, Concentrating in Class.
Your role model and why Kim and my Dad because they have supported me through everything.
Your final year in three words. Hard work, Fun, Challenging!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school To keep going to class and don’t let anyone distract you.
Parent/Guardian message Very proud of you David for finishing Year 12, continue working on that journey
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Mason Peter | 18 years
Wiradjuri
VCE | Werrimull P-12 School
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Studio Art, Art and Biology
Your biggest challenge while studying Balancing it all together
Your role model and why I have too many role models to choose one.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Attend uni and study Arts/Law. Your final year in three words Rewarding, Challenging, Stressful!
Simone Philp | 19 years
VCAL | Sunraysia Institute of TAFE
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Working with children
Your biggest challenge while studying Finishing year 12 and also my school-based traineeship.
Your role model and why My big brother Travis Philp is my role model because he is amazing and he is doing a lot for himself
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Get a full time job working with children
Your final year in three words Interesting, Enjoyable, Educational!
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Emily Roberts | 20 years
Gunditjmara
VCAL | Horsham College – Connect Ed Program
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Art & English
Your biggest challenge while studying Having a baby and returning to complete study and juggling school work and being a mother.
Your role model and why Kim Drummond (Leading Teacher). She is determined and motivated with her work. She supports her family and is never too busy to listen to people’s problems
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I would like to commence part time work in administration and further study in the field of photography and arts.
Your final year in three words Hard, Stressful, Worth it!
Arron Ryan | 18 years
Gunditjmara
VCAL | St Joseph’s Flexible Learning Centre
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Sport
Your biggest challenge while studying I would have liked a larger class size to discuss ideas and have a broader discussion on topics.
Your role model and why My dad, he taught me honesty, family values and has given me a broader understanding of the world today.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Would like to go to either TAFE or Uni and get a part time job.
Your final year in three words Overwhelmed, Relieved, Happy!
Parent/Guardian message We are very proud of Arron on completing his Year 12 and we hope
that he goes onto further studies.Congratulations!
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Alana Ryan | 18 years
Wotjabaluk / Gunditjmara
VCE | Ballarat Clarendon College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Psychology and Global Politics
Probably balancing my time between all of my subjects evenly, to
make sure I didn’t leave one or two in favour of the subjects that I enjoyed more. It’s easy to focus on a subject you like and ignore one that means you have to work a bit harder. Procrastination, especially with late-night studying, was another big challenge for me.
Probably my politics teacher this year, Laura Brady. She is very intelligent and articulate but also very generous with her time and cares a lot about every single one of her students. She brings good humour and so much knowledge to all of her classes.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Next year I would like to go to the University of Melbourne to start a Bachelor of Arts. Within it I want to study history, sociology and politics and also spend some time studying overseas. After that, I’d like to go into either international relations or secondary teaching.
Your final year in three words Challenging, Intense, Fun!
Alana has had an awesome year and worked very hard to achieve her results. She worked harder than I ever thought possible! She was School Captain so had some other things that kept her busy as well but overall she really enjoyed herself which is the main thing. I am so proud of her achievement this year and looking forward to seeing what she does in the future.
Sinead Ryan | 18 years
Torres Strait Islander
VCAL | Wodonga Senior Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Health and English
Your biggest challenge while studying Getting distracted by friends and the temptation to go out instead
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Physiotherapy
Your final year in three words Exciting, Eventful, Fun!
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Danielle Speak | 17 years
Gunditjmara
VCE | Bendigo Senior Secondary College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Biology and P.E.
Your biggest challenge while studying Keeping motivated and concentration
Your role model and why My mum is my role model, as she has raised three children and does a lot for me such as supporting me in anything I do.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I want to go into the workforce and experience real life situations. I would also love to volunteer working with wildlife.
Your final year in three words Exciting, Scary, Fun!
Congratulations on completing your VCE. Your whole family is so
very proud of everything that you have achieved. Never underestimate yourself or your ability, you can do anything, be anything, and achieve whatever you set your mind to. Whatever path
you choose to take in life always remember to be guided by your
ancestors and listen to your intuition. You have such a bright future ahead of you enjoy the next part of your journey.
Shanara Stewart | 18 years
Yorta Yorta
VCAL | Shepparton High School.
Your biggest challenge while studying Being motivated to go to school
Your role model and why My Mum, because she gave up her schooling for my sister and I and then went back to Uni when she was older to complete Certificates in Dental Nursing.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I want to get a job and do my Diploma in Children Services.
Your final year in three words Challenging, Stressful, Enjoyable sometimes!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Just stick at it, as much as you may not enjoy it. Having a Year 12 pass will get you a lot further than not having one.
Parent/Guardian message I am proud of you for completing your Year Twelve!
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James Taylor | 18 years
Ngarrindjeri / Yamatji
VCE | Lakeview Senior College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Physical Education, Health and Sport and Recreation
Your biggest challenge while studying I think my biggest challenge was sticking to the task of completing set homework and giving it my best effort.
My parents are my role models because they both have great work
ethics which have taught me to be reliable, honest and consistent. They have provided endlessly and selflessly for my siblings and I to ensure our educational personal success.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I am intending to take up an offer to attend university next year. Then I am moving closer to the uni to become independent and be able to stand on my own.
Your final year in three words. Difficult, Crazy, Fun!
I am very proud of my son James each and every day so my pride
in his achievement this year on completing Year 12 is overwhelming.
James’ effort to finish Year 12 at times was a struggle, but his
determination, persistence and courage were the strengths that he drew on to complete his studies. He is proud of his culture and where he comes from, and as a result, he is extremely family oriented. James is a caring and compassionate young man and one I feel will live his dreams
Angaline Thalasinos | 18 years
Food & Art
Your biggest challenge while studying?Friends
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Complete a Personal Training Coursey Your final year in three words.
Fun, Awesome, Scary!
Real proud of Angaline for completing Year 12. All the family is proud and love her heaps. We wish her all the best for her future.
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Tiffany Tilbrook | 18 years
Noongar
VCE | Mcleod College
Your biggest challenge while studying Staying motivated
Your role model and why My parents. They inspire me to do my best in whatever I do.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Complete a nursing degree at university Your final year in three words Amazing, Stressful, Quick!
Parent/Guardian message So very proud of you and all of your achievements to date. You are such a kind hearted person and deserve all the best in life. Lots of love Mum and Dad.
Zzak Togo-Singh | 18 years
VCAL | Robinvale P-12 College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Sport and Building
Your biggest challenge while studying Getting to class on time.
Your role model and why Leon Johnson
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Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Get a full time apprenticeship.
Your final year in three words Yeah, Not, Bad!
Tyrone Urquhart-Singh | 18 years
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Business Management, English and Maths
Your role model and why Sam Childers because of his dedication to fixing a problem
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Full time career in engineering and start a house
Your final year in three words Hard, Developing, Great!
Parent/Guardian message All your life you have stood apart from the rest, we are so proud of you. Stay strong.
Bohdi Walker | 17 years
Yorta Yorta
VCAL | Sale College
Your biggest challenge while studying My biggest challenge is trying to fit studying around my Certificate III and my sporting goals.
Your role model and why My dad, because he always looks forward and is willing to give others a helping hand so they can be the best.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next To further my career in AFL and be a Personal Trainer.
Your final year in three words Stressful, Enjoyable, Challenging!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school When times are hard never give up because its all worth it in the end.
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Lyra Walker-Mackay | 17 years
VCE | Avila College, Moreton Bay
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 My favourite subject is Business Management
Your biggest challenge while studying Motivating myself to study
My role model is my mother because she didn’t complete school and is now a very successful veterinarian. I look up to her because it shows that even if you don’t do well in high school, if you apply yourself and believe you can achieve your goals then it can really happen.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I want to study a double degree of Business and Behavioural Science at The Queensland University of Technology.
Our darling Wiwi we are so proud of the lady you have become.
From the moment we first laid eyes on you, we knew you were destined for great things. We are blessed to have been chosen to be your parents. May you continue to make the world brighter for those around you as you have done for us. Love Mummy and Daddy xx
Dylan Walsh | 18 years
Wurundjeri
VCE | Roxburgh Park Secondary School
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Business, Legal Studies
Your biggest challenge while studying Doing well on exams, staying organised and prioritising through the year
Your role model and why I see my family as role models
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Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Go to University and study economics and finance
Your final year in three words Good, Stressful, Challenging!
Heather Ward | 18 years
Noongar
VCE | Nhill College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Chemistry
Your biggest challenge while studying Finding the time to study and stay motivated
Your role model and why My dad, because he is a hard worker who always does the best he can with what he’s got.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I want to go to Melbourne to study pharmaceuticals
Your final year in three words Hectic, Challenging, Fun!
Melanie Warren-Caskie | 18 years
VCE | Lilydale Heights College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Physical Education, Outdoor Education, Health and Human Development
Your biggest challenge while studying Keeping up with all the work and finding motivation to continue the whole year
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Become a qualified nurse
Your final year in three words Difficult, Interesting, Fun!
Parent/Guardian message Congratulations, well done, I am very proud of your achievements even with all the struggles. Love Mum.
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Dylan Wilkinson | 18 years
Taungurong
VCAL | Kurai College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Maths, English
Your biggest challenge while studying Turning up to school and being focused
Your role model and why Grandma because she keeps me on my toes about school and getting my work done
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Apprenticeship mechanic
Your final year in three words Fun, Boring sometimes,Chilled-out!
Ellie White | 18 years
Kija / Bardi
VCE | Melbourne Girls Grammar School
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 Studio Arts/Psychology
Your biggest challenge while studying Disciplining myself to not be too distracted by those around me
Your role model and why My parents for teaching me to be resilient and to always strive to do, and be, my best
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I plan to go to University to gain a Bachelor of Exercise Science.
Your final year in three words Challenging, Enjoyable, Busy!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Aim to maintain an even balance between study, rest other commitments and your social life. Take advantage or positive opportunities you are offered.
Parent/Guardian Message Congratulations Ellie on completing your VCE. We are all very proud
of your commitment to your studies, your personal development &
your achievements along the way. All the best for your future pursuits.
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Nioka Rose Thorpe-Williams | 18 years
Gunai / Gunditjmara /
Yorta Yorta / Wiradjuri
VCE | Thomastown Secondary College
Your biggest challenge while studying The biggest challenge was finding motivation to study at home which led to finding it hard to hand work in on time.
I haven’t had one role model but my whole family has had a massive impact on the way I live my life and given me the motivation
to complete VCE and move onto higher education. All of my siblings completed VCE and my mother worked in a University so they have shown me how important getting an education is.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next I plan on going to University and studying Bachelor of Arts majoring in Anthropology.
Your final year in three words Memorable, Tiresome, Liberating!
Parent/Guardian message Congratulations Nioka! Whatever you choose to do in the future I’m sure will be done with grace and dignity. We are very proud of you, stay strong. Love always.
Phoebe Wilson | 17 years
Nganawal
VCE | Catholic College Bendigo
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 English and Legal Studies
Your biggest challenge while studying Focusing and catching up on my study due to me missing Tuesdays for my school-based traineeship
Your role model and why My sister Chloe because she always finishes what she starts, is positive, helpful and encouraging
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next Continue working at ANZ
Your final year in three words Hard and Challenging!
A message to other Koorie students currently in school Concentrate from the beginning, do all your work and that will help
you at the end of the year. Do what you enjoy and follow your dreams. Aim high.
Parent/Guardian message I’m very proud of Phoebe; she has completed her VCE and school-based traineeship.
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Sharney Wise | 18 years
Swan Hill
VCAL | Staughton College
Your favourite subjects in Year 12 I have really enjoyed my VET course which is Community Service
Your biggest challenge while studying I found it challenging to keep up with all the assignments for my VET course
Your role model and why My role model was my Nan. She raised me and looked after me when my mum couldn’t. I stayed with her until I went into foster care when she was sick. She passed away when I was 13.
Now that you have completed Year 12, what’s next In 2014 I plan on going to TAFE and doing a course in either youth
work or Childcare as I enjoy helping people.
Your final year in three words Challenging, Exciting, Fun!
Parent/Guardian message Sharney has turned her life around I the last 5 years since she has
been in my care. She has grown as a person and is ready for new successes and adventures.
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On Friday 14 February, 2014, VAEAI celebrated the
first Koorie Statewide Year 12 graduation ceremony.
Families travelled from across the State to share in this
milestone event.
~ opening ceremony
young Koorie dancers RJ and Manarra Bamblett