Immersion to Country with Catholic Mission
News
When students from St Paul’s College, Gilles Plains, accompanied Catholic Mission on a trip to South Australia’s outback, they experienced more than just spectacular landscape. What they found was a deeper understanding of First Nations cultures and communities, a strengthened connection to Country and reflections on their role in building a more just, respectful and reconciled Australia. They shared their experiences with The Southern Cross.
Hot, dry days and crisp, cold nights were the images that first came to mind when staff and students from St Paul’s College, Gilles Plains, heard the words ‘Country’ and ‘outback communities’. What they experienced, however, was far more than a journey through remote South Australia. It was an opportunity to listen, learn, connect and grow through meaningful encounters with people, culture, faith and community.
Nine students, including an old scholar (2025) and two staff members embarked on an Immersion to Country with Catholic Mission facilitator Tony Johnston, travelling from Adelaide through the Flinders Ranges and into the heart of South Australia’s far north. Along the way, students were challenged to step outside their comfort zones and engage deeply with the stories, traditions and experiences of the communities they encountered.
A highlight for many was the group’s time on Adnyamathanha Country at Iga Warta, where cultural educator Terrance Coulthard shared his knowledge, stories and deep connection to Country. Students explored the significance of the ochre pits and participated in an Ochre Ceremony, providing a powerful opportunity to reflect on the spiritual connection between land, people and culture.
Student Eade described the experience as one of the most memorable moments of the immersion. “My favourite moment was when we went to the ochre pits and Terry did an ochre ceremony to help us connect to spirits, the ground and to the land we visited,” Eade said.
Staff member Christabella said the Ochre Ceremony was a highlight. “It was grounding, emotional and deeply reflective, and Terry created a space where we felt safe to connect with Country, culture and one another,” Christabella said.
The immersion also challenged students physically and spiritually. Climbing Devil’s Peak rewarded the group with breathtaking views across the surrounding landscape and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and significance of Country.
“My best moment would have to be when our whole group had made it up to Devil’s Peak to enjoy a beautiful view,” said student Biar after reflecting on the experience.
The journey continued north to Coober Pedy, where students spent several days connecting with local organisations and community members. Through visits to the Umoona Tjutagku Health Service, the Umoona Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Centre and the Purple House Dialysis Centre, students gained valuable insight into the strengths, challenges and resilience of remote communities.
For Cooper, hearing the stories of local people was a standout experience.
“Being in Coober Pedy and being involved with the local community through listening to stories from the locals at the Umoona Tjutagku Health Centre and learning about the Purple House Dialysis Centre were my favourite parts of the trip.”
Similarly, Smit reflected on the importance of genuine community connection.
“Spending our days in Coober Pedy and connecting with the community through multiple visits and activities would have to be the best part of this journey. Going out to the Umoona Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Centre and having conversations with everyone is the most memorable.”
Eva notes that one of her most enjoyable moments “was getting to know the Indigenous community in Coober Pedy. Specifically in the Drug and Alcohol Centre, I was lucky enough to make a friendship with an Aboriginal woman named Tania. She taught me elements of her culture, her background, how she spends her days, her language with meanings and how to dot paint. For me, this was really special as it meant that she could express her story to someone she just met. Her time and enthusiasm shared throughout this experience will stay with me forever.”
Old scholar Brad said Coober Pedy was a standout. “Specifically, working with the participants at the Drug and Alcohol Centre,” Brad said. “Being able to learn their stories and connect with them through conversation and music will always stay with me.”
Students also had the opportunity to work with local artist Tommy on a mural project, using art as a way of learning about culture, storytelling and connection to place. The collaborative artwork encouraged students to contribute their own ideas while learning from Tommy’s artistic and cultural knowledge, as well as the insights shared by George Cooley.
“My favourite moment was creating a large artwork as a team alongside Aboriginal artist Tommy. Tommy was incredibly supportive of everyone’s ideas, and learning from both Tommy and George made the experience even more meaningful,” student Jacob reflected.
Beyond the organised activities, the immersion strengthened relationships within the group itself. Living, travelling and learning together created opportunities for students to form new friendships and deepen existing ones.
“My favourite part about this trip was spending time with people I wouldn’t normally do so. I’ve built great connections during this trip and hope they expand to a greater friendship,” said Anna. “Another thing was learning about the Indigenous community and their cultural practices. It was a good experience learning about the outback of South Australia and the Indigenous communities in it. If I could do this again I would definitely do so.”
Throughout the immersion, students witnessed the power of community and service in action. Whether learning from Terrance at Iga Warta, creating art with Tommy, listening to stories shared by community members in Coober Pedy, or working alongside Fr Harold and the parish community of St Peter and St Paul Catholic Church, students experienced the generosity, hospitality and wisdom of those who welcomed them. These encounters brought to life the values of St Paul’s College, demonstrating that reconciliation is built through authentic relationships, deep listening and a willingness to learn from one another.
“This whole trip in general was definitely a highlight which gave me and everyone else experiences and memories that will be unforgettable,” student Sofia said.
