Hopes high as projects head to finals SUPER Koorie Kids Bush Playgroup and Balnarring Preschool have been named as finalists in the 2019 Victorian Early Years Awards. The awards celebrate the contributions that individuals and organisations make to improving the learning and development of young children and their families. Super Koorie Kids Bush Playgroup and Balnarring Preschool were nominated in the Creating Collaborative Community Partnerships category, which will be awarded next month. Since 2016, Mornington Peninsula Shire has worked closely with Willum Warrain Aboriginal Gathering Place to provide Super Koorie Kids Bush Playgroup, a culturally welcoming bush playgroup for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families. The aim was to create a weekly opportunity for these children to be immersed in their culture and learn in a caring environment, surrounded by kin. The success of this model has allowed members of the Willum Warrain Bush Playgroup to take ownership of the program and, as of this year, Super Koorie Kids is run by three local parents. Balnarring Preschool was nominated for its program delivered in partnership with the Boon Wurrung Foundation, which advocates a culture of learning in natural environments and consciously connecting children to the land. Since 2010, the organisation has been introducing First People’s world views into its practice and community, carefully guided by Elders from the Boon Wurrung peoples, on whose land the preschool stands. First People’s perspectives are now incorporated into all areas of the daily curriculum, allowing children to learn and explore the Boon Wurrung language, stories, songs and dances. The mayor Cr David Gill congratulated both finalists on their dedication to bringing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island culture to the forefront of learning for our young community. “It’s fantastic to see two well deserving local projects
Drawing tips DURING her time as artist in residence at Point Nepean last summer Trish Bourke, pictured above, became fascinated with some of the objects displayed at Sorrento Museum. That link with the museum has now led her to volunteer to guide people with their drawing. Participants should take along their own pencils, pastels and paper to the museum at 827 Melbourne Road, Sorrento from 10am to 1pm on 24 October. A $5 donation will include tea and coffee. Call Joy Kitch on 0405 572 326 or email admin@nhs.asn.au
‘Joni’ at the point
Immersed in culture: Shire Supported Playgroup facilitator Kerry Fortyun with Super Koori Kids. Picture: Supplied
acknowledged at a state level,” he said. “To have both programs now run by community represents great success for the empowerment and independence of our people. “The success of both programs is evident in the positive community feedback and high level of enrolments. “Well done to all involved and congratulations
on your dedication to improving our community culture.” Winners will receive $10,000-$15,000 to further develop their work or undertake professional development. The award winners will be announced Tuesday 22 October at the National Gallery of Victoria. Details: education.vic.gov.au/veya
REBECCA Barnard will sing the songs of Joni Mitchell in two concerts at Point Nepean on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 November. The concerts are in support of Sorrento Museum. Singer, songwriter, producer and musician, Barnard led the band Rebecca's Empire from 1993 to 2000, and has released two solo albums, Fortified (2006) and Everlasting (2010). While at Point Nepean she will sing such Mitchell classics as Both Sides Now, Big Yellow Taxi and The Circle Game. Food and drink will be available at the concerts from 6.30pm and the concerts start at 7.30pm in Badcoe Hall in Point Nepean’s Quarantine Station precinct. Bookings for the Rebecca Barnard concerts: trybooking.com or clickRebecca
Mornington News
15 October 2019
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