By Charlene Macaulay
A performance that highlighted the Gurundji tribe’s fight for equality and land rights has earned Carranballac P-9 College a national Wakakirri award.
The Point Cook school took out the Reconciliation Australia/Narragunnawali Story Award for From Little Things, Big Things Grow, which included the songs of Paul Kelly, Kevin Carmody, Yothu Yindi and Ganga Girl.
A group of 36 grade 6 students first performed the piece at a Wakakirri heat at The Clocktower Centre in Moonee Ponds in July, bagging a number of state awards, before being invited to perform at the Wakakirri National Performance Competition Night at Melbourne’s Palais Theatre.
The school’s art, textiles and wood tech departments helped create costumes and props, while the performance was written, directed and choreographed by Koorie engagement support officer Judith Dalton-Walsh.
“It was a pleasure to be involved with the production, being asked to give advice and to see the students grasp the story with a full understanding of the concept,” Ms Dalton-Walsh said.
Grade 6 student Joel said he was really proud the team had made it to national level and won.
“I loved the experience of Wakakirri – it built up my confidence,” he said.
“It is important – no matter what you look like or your colour, eveyone should be treated as equals.”
Wakakirri is Australia’s largest annual performing arts event for primary and secondary schools.
