St Augustine’s celebrates culture through Deadly Day
Schools
Students at St Augustine’s parish school came together on Tuesday 16 June for the school’s annual Deadly Day celebration, a vibrant whole-school event designed to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, achievements, knowledge and community connections.
Given that NAIDOC Week falls during the school holidays this year, Deadly Day allows students and staff to celebrate and engage with the spirit of NAIDOC Week through a full day of cultural learning experiences.
The day began with a Welcome to Country led by Curtis Falla, a Kaurna man and school parent, helping set the tone for a day centred on respect, learning and celebration.
Throughout the day, students from Reception to Year 6 took part in a range of experiences designed to showcase the richness and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. A performance by acclaimed Aboriginal musician and storyteller Dion Drummond was a particular highlight.
Students also took part in weaving workshops with Aunty Janice, cultural art experiences with Violet Buckskin from Winda Creations, native plant workshops facilitated by Green Adelaide, and cultural viewing sessions.
There were also ‘Deadly Science’ learning experiences exploring the remarkable scientific knowledge and ingenuity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with a focus on water, solar energy and wind power.
There was also the chance to learn about native Australian animals and their significance within Australia’s ecosystems.
Aboriginal education focus teacher, Maja Bejnarowicz, said the day was about more than learning facts and information.
“Deadly Day is an opportunity for our students to celebrate culture, build connections with community and recognise the contributions, achievements and knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” she said.
“We want our students to learn through authentic experiences and to leave the day feeling inspired, informed and proud.”
Kaurna man Curtis Falls leads students through Welcome to Country.
Ariana and Ruby get up close to nature.
