Small School, Strong Culture

Students, staff, families, Elders, community members and visiting workers gathered at Enngonia Public School to mark the start of Reconciliation Week. Far back row l–r: Israel Rogers, William Cubby and Kiara Kelly. Standing row l–r: Simone Mazza, Joan Shillingsworth, Vicki Scott, Kelly Roberts, Jacinta Smith Robbins, Carlyle Shillingsworth, Taryn Kelly, Patricia Smith, Marina Krivoshev, Colleen Shillingsworth, Kara Kelly, Dudley Shillingsworth, Emily Williams, Margot London, kids seated Jolanda Kelly and Evie Wood. Front row l–r: Ava Shillingsworth, Jazarli Kelly, Henry Shillingsworth, Manon Ronzet (adult) with Vianne Ronzet, Zion Ronzet, Lilianna Troutman and Barney Johnson. Seated on ground: River Troutman and Lukaya Corby. Photo: Beverley Callow

Enngonia Public School

Story and photos by Beverley Callow

It is morning in Enngonia, a town of about 80 people and the aroma of kangaroo curry cooking in the canteen is wafting through the hall where people sit in a circle on the floor around a pile of colourful grasses and raffia.

Enngonia Public School principal Israel Rogers is making coffee for the guests while the community gathers. There is a tangible sense of welcome and warmth while teachers, Elders and friends crowd around a classroom table and chat together.

Nearby, Lakaya Corby, a Year 4 student is working on her second piece, while the Bourke Aboriginal Corporation Health Service (BACHS) team try their hand at weaving with her and the other children. There is laughter while students run around the grounds waiting for the johnny cakes to cook.

The event marked the start of Reconciliation Week, which follows National Sorry Day, a day that acknowledges the Stolen Generations. Reconciliation Week asks Australians to learn about shared histories, cultures and achievements.

At Enngonia Public School, this idea is more than a concept – it is visible in the connection between education, community support, and cultural guidance. […]

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