the Y
the Y
Y Kinders’ School Readiness Funding (SRF) Pedagogy Coaches, Karen Chugg and Michelle King, were fortunate recipients of scholarships from Early Childhood Australia, which enabled them to attend the Reconciliation Symposium in Gimuy (Cairns) in May. This is now the second year in a row that they have been able to attend this important event. Last year, it was through the support of the Sandbox Project.
Michelle King, who is also a teacher at Columbia Park Preschool, shares her experience:
“We felt honoured to gather on Gimuy Country and hear a powerful range of voices, stories, and insights. The Symposium created space for meaningful dialogue on reconciliation thanks to the contributions of diverse speakers and deeply engaged participants.
The speakers all called us to reflect on the ongoing connection between past, present, and future – to bridge now to next and help build a more united and respectful nation
On-Country experiences are deeply powerful. Learning that is connected to Country fosters identity, purpose, and more meaningful engagement. This insight deeply resonates with the work happening across our early years services through bush kinder, nature play programs, and community walks.
These experiences not only nurture children’s connection to the natural world but also honour First Nations perspectives by embedding a sense of place, respect for Country, and a deeper awareness of belonging. They remind us that meaningful learning starts with relationships; with land, with culture, and with each other.
In her Opening Keynote, Karen Mundine, CEO of Reconciliation Australia, challenged everyone present to:
Catherine Liddle, CEO of SNAICC, reminded us of the importance of truth-telling in building a just, reconciled Australia.
A thought-provoking keynote was delivered by Professor Chelsea Watego, which invited us to confront race as a construct used to marginalise Aboriginal peoples and to challenge political narratives with courage and clarity.
Speaking of the transformative power of quality education and inspirational teachers, Marcus Pedroand shared a powerful story of an educator whose words still guide him today: ‘I believe in you.’
Jo Goodwin and Catharine Hydon were incredible facilitators, creating space for deep reflection, courageous conversation, and meaningful connection. Roundtable discussions sparked rich exchanges and networks including a great connection with teachers from Haileybury. Jo reminded us, ‘If you do right by mob, you do right by all children.’
As we reflect on the outcomes of the Symposium, we are reminded of our shared responsibility at Y Kinders to advance reconciliation. Each interaction, idea exchanged, and commitment made contributes to our ongoing journey toward understanding, respect, and unity.”
