This week, as we acknowledge Reconciliation Week, our school community has the privilege of celebrating and unveiling beautiful new artworks that will now become part of the story and identity of Avondale School.
These artworks were developed through a collaborative process involving a team of students, including First Nations students, and other students passionate about inclusion, belonging, and celebrating the diversity of our community. Together, they worked alongside Indigenous artist Saretta to create pieces that reflect our school, our values, and the kind of community we aspire to be.
The process itself reflects this year’s Reconciliation Week theme, 'All In', and challenges us to move beyond words and to actively commit ourselves to reconciliation through listening, learning, inclusion, and genuine relationships. It reminds us that reconciliation is everyone’s responsibility and that stronger communities are built when we walk together with respect, understanding, and shared purpose.
The mural, installed in both the Primary and Secondary Campuses, welcomes all to Avondale School as a place of connection and shared culture. It acknowledges our school's presence on Awabakal Country. At the centre of the artwork are meeting circles connected by flowing songlines, representing the journeys of students, families, and staff from Awabakal, Wonnarua, and Darkinjung countries coming together at Avondale School. The inclusion of the Elders’ symbol reflects the passing of wisdom and knowledge from one generation to the next and acknowledges the important role teachers, families, and community play in guiding young people.
The waterways flowing through the artwork connect Dora Creek and Lake Macquarie, symbolising life, connection, and the movement of knowledge through our school community. The surrounding mountains, native animals, birdlife, and flourishing trees celebrate the beauty, resilience, and renewal found within Country and remind us of our shared responsibility to care for creation and one another.
As a school community, we are blessed by the diversity of cultures, stories, and experiences, including the rich history, wisdom, and continuing contribution of First Nations peoples. Reconciliation Week provides an important opportunity to reflect on how we continue to build a community where every person feels seen, valued, respected, and connected.May these artworks serve as an ongoing reminder that Avondale School is a place of welcome, respect, and shared growth; a community where we learn from one another and walk forward together with understanding, compassion, and hope.
The earth and everything on it belong to the Lord. The world and its people belong to him. Psalm 24:1
Mrs Deb Cooper
Principal
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