Local Aboriginal knowledge holder and teacher Trish Ellis grew up in the local area (Yuin country) and with her family, revived the Dhurga language that is now taught to students and teachers.

Trish liaises with the school’s Aboriginal Contact Teachers, Rebecca Brady and Karen Hadley, to maintain the authenticity of the culture and to build relationships with the local Aboriginal community.

Principal Johanna Wain said it has been wonderful to see the growth of knowledge and understanding of Indigenous culture in the St Bernard’s community since Trish joined the school.

“Language is such an important element of any culture, and Trish works to build knowledge and respect of the Dhurga language and culture behind it,” she said.

Trish immerses Kindergarten and Year 1 students in Dhurga through storytelling and games. In Year 2 – 6 students learn a deeper understanding of the language through symbolism and hands on experiences.

Students are introduced to the language with phonics, animals, body parts and greetings. All the while Trish works closely with teachers to integrate authentic Aboriginal culture across the curriculum. 

Rebecca Brady said that the introduction of Dhurga as a language has been a positive experience for St Bernard’s students, staff and parents. 

“We live in a community rich in Aboriginal culture and history. It is so important to embrace and respect this culture,” she said.

As an outcome of teaching Dhurga, Aboriginal students are taking pride in identifying their heritage. Staff have embraced the lessons and Aboriginal families are becoming increasingly involved in the school community.

Students look forward to their language classes and often greet each other with “Walawaani”, which translates to ‘Safe journey’ and ‘I hope you had a safe journey here’. 

St Bernard’s will be working closely with South Coast schools St Mary’s, Moruya and Carroll College, Broulee to create authentic celebrations when the schools meet together.

As Dhurga filters through St Bernard’s, it is clear that it is not just a language, but a culture that is being respected and revived on the path towards Reconciliation.