Naidoc Week celebrated at Merimbula Public School

The school's big plans for a conference, guest speakers and special guest appearances were thrown into turmoil but students still took part in the painting of a massive mural under the guidance of Aboriginal educator, artist and performer Lewis Burns.

Mr Burns worked with local Djiringanj Elder, educator and artist Aunty Colleen Dixon, to learn about Djiringanj Country. Staff and students worked on the mural, leaving their hand prints and helping to paint the mural.

There were cooking lessons with Djiringanj Elder and educator Aunty Glenda Dixon and educator Erika Luff, painting and storytelling with Djiringanj educators Robben Dixon and Bronwyn Luff, a chance to learn about bush tucker and taste Lemon Myrtle popcorn with Indigenous Cultural Adventures' educator Gerald Power, traditional Indigenous games with Djiringanj educator Marcus Mundy, a writer's workshop with children's and Streetwize Comics' author Gayle Kennedy and Healing Through Country and Mindfulness Workshop, led by school staff, inspired by local Aboriginal educator Emma Stewart.

Students also attended a Zoom workshop with Olympian and ex-federal politician Nova Peris.

Merimbula Public School principal Michelle Hulme said Ms Peris was "so amazing with our students and loved answering all of their thoughtful questions about her journey, Naidoc Week and her Olympic experiences".

"While we didn't get to meet Nova in person today, as previously planned, we looking forward to meeting her and welcoming her to Merimbula Public School and the Sapphire Coast Learning Community, once current restrictions are lifted," .

Students tucked into bush tucker tasting crocodile skewers, kangaroo cheese burgers, Johnny cakes and lemon myrtle popcorn.