On Wednesday, 30 July, we had the privilege of gathering as a College community to celebrate our NAIDOC Week Mass—an important and deeply meaningful event in our annual calendar.

Together on Wiradjuri land, we began with a reflective yarn circle, followed by a powerful smoking ceremony, before entering into a beautiful Mass led by Father Xavier. His words offered thoughtful reflection on the sacred connection between faith, culture and Country, and guided us in prayerful gratitude for the richness and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

We were honoured to welcome staff, students and families from across our catholic school community (St Mary's Primary Batlow, St Joseph's Primary Adelong, and St Patrick's Primary Gundagai) to pray and celebrate with us. We were also delighted to be joined by special guests from Catholic Education, including our new Executive Director, Mr David de Carvalho, and members of the Aboriginal Education Team, Mr Lachie Eveston and Ms Libby Goodsell.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Aunty Sue Bulger for her generous and thoughtful address to our congregation, and to Uncle Lenny Connolly for his guidance and presence during the smoking ceremony. We were especially grateful for his outstanding didgeridoo playing, which added deep cultural significance and reverence to our Mass.

Following the Mass, we proudly hosted a special awards ceremony recognising the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from local Catholic schools. Awards were presented for excellence in academics, the arts, leadership, and sport—each one celebrating the unique gifts, talents and contributions of these young people.

We offer our warmest congratulations to all award recipients. Your achievements are a source of great pride and a reflection of your commitment, identity and leadership within our communities. It was a privilege to honour you as part of this special day.

It was a truly moving and memorable occasion—one that reflects our deep respect for culture, our shared faith, and the strength of our community. We are sincerely grateful to all who joined us and helped bring this important celebration to life.

Grateful thanks to Miss Mason and her team for their careful planning and hard work in preparing such a beautiful celebration.