Individual or Group Submission27/11/24

Catherine van Wilgenburg

Catherine van Wilgenburg, who learned about the destruction of land and genocide of the Wurundjeri after working at IramooGrassland Reserve, calls for on-country experiences in education, ecological projects, and storytelling to promote better understanding and respect for First Peoples. She emphasizes connecting people to country through local artists and ecologists.

Topics: Education, Shared understanding

Submission Transcription

What has been your experience learning about First Nations history and culture in Victoria's education system? Do you feel it was comprehensive?

It enough and needs to be grounded in on country experiences not just in classrooms!

What changes would you like to see in Victoria to promote better understanding and respect for First Peoples cultures?

In allyship ecological projects such as Chain of Ponds Collaboration along Moonee Ponds Creek Melbourne. Connecting kids with on ground Landcare projects and all enviro works on parks and reserves. Schools

In what ways do you think non-First Nations Victorians can contribute to the process of truth-telling and treaty?

Storytelling about waking up, changing thinking to relational thinking across all disciplines and connecting to country in our own backyards.

In what ways could First Peoples history and culture be promoted in Victoria?

Storytelling about waking up, changing thinking to relational thinking across all disciplines and connecting to country in our own backyards.

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