20 November 2023

A new garden to provide an outdoor learning space for Indigenous history and culture has been blessed and officially opened at St Brendan’s School, Somerville.

The garden consists of a winding path through an environment of rocks, trees, and local plants and grasses, creating a space for students to explore in formal and informal learning experiences. ‘With the creative and talented staff we have here at St Brendan’s, I’m sure the possibilities for engaging with and educating our students about Indigenous history and culture are endless’, said Principal Sue Carr.

The school was joined by guests including Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) Southern Regional General Manager, Deb Egan, principals from neighbouring schools, members of the School Advisory Council, and state and federal politicians. Following a blessing by Parish Priest Fr Shymon, guests at the opening, along with students and teachers, were invited to walk through the garden and to place a gumnut in the symbolic fire pit.

‘We want our students to learn about the Indigenous history of our beautiful country’, said Sue. ‘We want them to learn about the values of respect, inclusion and reconciliation. We want them to grow up to be people who can speak with respect and confidence about the past, and be part of respectful and inclusive ways of living in the future.’