West Moreton Anglican College has a proud background that finds its foundations deeply rooted in the history of its surrounding lands and community. In commemoration of the ties preserved with its traditional Yuggera Elders and Aunty Pat, the Executive Leadership Team and the Reconciliation Committee of the Junior School celebrated the unveiling of its Goondeen acknowledgment pole this morning along with respected community Elder Uncle Albert Holt.

Principal Geoff McLay explained that the College is working hard to embed indigenous perspectives into its curriculum as a priority of student learning. Aboriginal culture is a wisdom that in all its wonder through story-telling, ancient beliefs and the intricacies from which an extraordinary spiritual life is based, and the complexity of an ancient social system, detailing roles and responsibilities of identity, is still evident today.

As an acknowledgement of this wisdom and ancient culture, WestMAC has permanently positioned the acknowledgement pole at the entrance to the school beside the Foundation Stone of WestMAC.

“Goondeen” is a person respected for their wisdom, gleaned from long experience; an elder who is listened to and their opinions shared and acted upon. Year 8 students and in particular Lucas Marsh worked tirelessly during school holidays to grout, design and strategically place the circles around the pole forming a beautiful rainbow serpent representing the creator spirit of Yuggera country.

Indigenous Perspectives Learning Innovator, Mrs Phyllis Marsh facilitated the ceremony and said, “Today we unveil this pole, we will celebrate with our honourable Elder of 20 years Uncle Albert and Traditional custodians who will perform a traditional Welcome to Country, and thank them for their wisdom as well as remembering Aunty Pat King”.