"Learning from Country" within the "Connecting to Country" series encapsulates the essence of constant learning. As I immerse myself in the sacred sites and engage with the stories and wisdom embedded within the land, my mind swirls with a sense of journey and discovery. I attempt to contextualize and place my experiences within a timeline, only to realize the profound depth of deep time that transcends conventional notions of linear progression. Through this process, I delve into the concept of dreaming, both my own dreams and the collective dreams of humanity, seeking to understand their significance and guidance. Along this path of exploration, I confront stark truths and encounter confrontingly honest learnings that challenge my preconceptions. The scope of knowledge to learn and unlearn can be intimidating, yet I embrace it with humility and a willingness to expand my understanding of the interconnectedness of all life and the responsibilities we hold as custodians of the Earth.
Mt Emu Creek
The work "Mt Emu Creek" within the "Connecting to Country" series evokes a deep sense of disgust at the scars inflicted upon the landscape. As I connect with the land, I recall the initial visit where I missed the turn off to Noorat, feeling a reluctance to confront the painful history that resides there. It is a reminder that this is not solely my story to tell, as the permissions for sharing and disseminating information are relatively new and require careful consideration. In navigating this delicate terrain, I find myself withholding certain thoughts and experiences, grappling with the difficulties of not fully expressing and teaching everything that weighs on my mind. It is a challenging endeavour, filled with moments of shame and disgust, as I confront the knowledge that others are aware of the wrongs that have been committed but also witness the overarching impact of the great forgetting—a collective amnesia that obscures the true extent of the harm inflicted upon the land.
MRC
The artwork titled "MRC" captures the experience of working in the field of education, where there is a constant rush and a million running thoughts. The never-ending to-do list seems to grow perpetually, with the challenge of catering to the interests of many students at once. This creates a split attention and decision-making process, where the interests of groups often take precedence over the needs of individuals. Amidst this, there are scars that traverse the entire production, highlighting the complex relationship between our work and the Country we occupy. Are our actions merely deflated symbols of action, shadows of possible change, tokenistic attempts? The Welcome to Country, while a start, does not fully address the underlying issues. The acknowledgement of Country can often feel insincere, adding to the unlimited frustrations that arise within this environment.
Acknowledgement of Country
As I live, learn, create and work on the land of the Djargurd Wurrung people and Gundjitmara people of the Eastern Maar nation. I would like to pay respect to Elders past and present and express my gratitude for the current use of this land, in addition the the invaluable knowledge that the Traditional Custodians impart on us.
I am thankful to the, and all Indigenous communities who continue to maintain a deep connection with this land. I acknowledge and appreciate their ongoing custodianship, which ensures the preservation and protection of the environment and cultural heritage. I recognise the significant role that Indigenous knowledge plays in shaping our understanding of the world. The knowledge and teachings of the Traditional Custodians encompass a holistic approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of caring for the land.
By incorporating this wisdom into our educational practices, we can nurture a deeper respect for the environment, promote sustainable living, and foster a stronger sense of community. Their deep knowledge of land management, cultural traditions, and the histories of this region enriches our educational landscape. We are privileged to learn from their experiences, stories, and perspectives, which provide a unique and vital lens through which we can understand and appreciate this land.
May this acknowledgment and apology serve as a starting point for healing, understanding, and a genuine commitment to reconciliation. Let us work together towards building a future based on mutual respect, cultural diversity, and justice for all.
In recognizing the history of this region, we must confront the harsh reality that massacres of Indigenous people took place on this land. These acts of violence, perpetrated against the Djargurd Wurrung and Gundjitmara and other First Nations peoples, have left a lasting and tragic legacy. I acknowledge the immense pain, suffering, and loss that resulted from these massacres and the ongoing intergenerational trauma experienced by Indigenous communities as a result.
I acknowledge the immense injustice inflicted upon the First Nations people, the destruction of their cultures, and the profound and lasting impacts on their communities. We apologise for the pain and trauma caused by the violence and dispossession experienced and cultural genocide Indigenous peoples are now faced with.
I pledge to continue to listen, learn, and engage in ongoing dialogue to address the systemic injustices that continue to affect First Nations communities. I commit myself to fostering a culture of respect, understanding, and equality, one that acknowledges the rights, contributions, and resilience of Indigenous communities and strive to create inclusive and culturally safe educational spaces where the histories, cultures, and voices of First Nations peoples are celebrated and valued.
As we move forward, let us continue to foster partnerships and collaborations that promote a mutual exchange of knowledge, understanding, and respect. By embracing the teachings of the Traditional Custodians, we empower our young people to appreciate the diverse heritage and wisdom that this land holds.
Timboon
The individual work titled "Timboon" within the "Connecting to Country" series explores the theme of home, resettlement, safety, and love, juxtaposed with the historical reality of sanctioned culls within my grandparents' generation on this land. Upon inquiry, any memory of the First Peoples becomes an unseen footnote, a past extermination event on their property that was long over. The contrast between the beauty of the country and the dark shadows of its history creates a complex and conflicting narrative. Racism infiltrates conversations, leading to the need for explanations of insults that are difficult to comprehend. Bringing together these conflicting truths within my mind proves to be exceptionally challenging. Deep grief and frustration emerge as I confront the reality of my situation and the powerlessness I feel in the face of larger systemic issues. However, I find solace in refocusing my sphere of influence and working towards manageable, actionable changes.