Yiramalay students visit Melbourne
Last month, six graduating Year 12 students and two teachers from the Yiramalay Studio School spent a week in Melbourne as part of the students’ Industry Studies program.
The purpose of the trip was to explore employment opportunities in the city and for some, it was their first time visiting Melbourne - an experience made even more memorable by the unseasonably cool ‘summer’ weather for students who come from communities spread across northern Australia and the Torres Strait Islands.
During their week-long visit, they spent time at each of our campuses, connecting with Junior and Middle School students at Elsternwick and Glen Waverley through sport and art activities.
At the St Kilda Road Campus, they met with Year 4 students who have been exploring the central idea that ‘Country, language and community are significant to the lives of First Nations people.’ The visit offered a wonderful opportunity for students to ask questions and hear firsthand what it is like to live on Country.
‘We are the oldest culture in the world. We want to tell you our stories and share our culture with you,’ said Yiramalay student, Mcfarlene.
‘When students visit, we share our kinship and show them different ways of living. We teach our language and tell stories through dance; our bare feet grounded on the land. The river is our life - without it, we are nothing. We teach them how to fish, hunt and make fire. We show them the true night sky and share the stories in the stars.’
The visit also provided a special moment of reunion for students like Charlie (Year 10, St Kilda Road) who took part in Induction Group 70 earlier this year.
‘I made friends from all walks of life at Yiramalay and have kept in touch since coming home,’ said Charlie. ‘The experience helped me learn about myself - meeting people I may never have otherwise met, trying things I’d never imagine doing, like bush medicine and making my own boomerang. My time at Yiramalay has given me memories that will last a lifetime.’
2025 Glen Waverley School Captain Kirwan fondly remembers her time at Yiramalay. ‘Looking back, my trip to Yiramalay in Year 10 shaped me into the person I am today. I learnt many lessons about humility and the importance of open mindedness, and I now have a greater understanding of my place in the world. Yiramalay gave me memories that will last a lifetime.’
Each year, more than 120 Wesley students have the unique opportunity to learn on country through the three-week Yiramalay Induction Program. Learn more about this life-changing experience available to Year 10 students here.
