The Yarning Circle Edition 14

Spring 2023 | Edition #14

The YarningCircle

Acknowledgement

With respect for Aboriginal cultural protocol and out of recognition that its campuses occupy their traditional lands, Western Sydney University acknowledges the Darug, Eora, Dharawal and Wiradjuri peoples and thanks them for their support for its work in their lands in Greater Western Sydney and beyond.

Disclaimers

The opinions expressed in these articles are those of the authors and contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the University or the organization to which the authors are affiliated. Statements of fact are believed to be true as at the date of publication, and the University accepts no liability for the truth or accuracy of such statements.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that the following magazine may contain images or names of deceased persons.

Publication Enquiries

Please contact Matilda Harry at M.Harry@westernsydney.edu.au

Western launches Indigenous Futures Decadal Strategy at opening of First People’s Walk

On Thursday, 6 July Western Sydney University proudly launched its Indigenous Futures 2023-2032 Decadal Strategy at the opening of the First People’s Walk at its Kingswood campus. Students, staff, alumni, Elders and community members gathered to celebrate this significant occasion.

The Decadal Strategy is an important blueprint for Indigenous growth and development at Western over the next ten years and reinforces the University’s commitment to building the next generation of Indigenous leaders.

The stories of Indigenous People and Western Sydney University have over time become shared stories that are interwoven into the organisation and the broader community. They are stories of people, of place, and of partnerships –all of which form the foundation for the ambitions and commitments outlined in the Strategy.

Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership, said she believes that Western is the first and only university with a long-term and short-term Indigenous strategy.

Artwork by Chris Edward (2010) Swimmy Creek [Mixed media on Latvian linen 100cm x 145cm Western Sydney University Art Collection Image in Western Red].

Nicholas Howie, Aunty Pearl Wymarra, Aunty Jean South, Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Barney Glover AO, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Michelle Trudgett, Uncle Chris Tobin, Josh Mason and Allira Johnson (Left to right then front). Photography: Sally Tsoutas.

(continued from previous page)

“Western’s strategic approach encompasses connecting with First Nation People across the globe. We aim to harness our Indigenous research and teaching success and to augment Indigenous People, determining our own cultural, economic, political and social autonomy in a changing world. In order to be successful, the key values for this Indigenous Futures Decadal Strategy are based on the fundamental principles of social justice and self-determination,” said Professor Trudgett.

Professor Barney Glover AO, ViceChancellor and President, noted that the Indigenous Futures 2023-2032 Decadal

MESSAGE FROM THE DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR, INDIGENOUS LEADERSHIP

It gives me great pleasure to present the Spring 2023 edition of The Yarning Circle, our newsletter highlighting Indigenous excellence at Western. The last three months have been incredibly busy across the Indigenous portfolio. In the last week of June, we sent a fantastic team of Indigenous students to Melbourne to compete in the Indigenous National Games, hosted by Monash University. Our students transformed into elite athletes as they represented Western in basketball, netball, touch football and volleyball. I had the honour of cheering them on as they played four games of touch football on day three of the games. I am immensely proud of the team as they showed significant care, respect and appreciation towards each other, always representing Western with dignity and pride.

In the first week of July, we delivered a packed agenda of activities for NAIDOC Week, acknowledging this year’s theme

Strategy builds on the strategic work of the 2020-2025 Indigenous Strategy and positions Western as a place that fosters, develops and supports the next generation of Indigenous leaders.

“As our nation embraces and adopts technology and knowledge capabilities for the future, this Strategy combines local access with global possibilities for the next generation of Indigenous People. For this reason alone, we welcome the opportunity to create a bold strategic vision for the future,” said Professor Glover.

The First People’s Walk is a space of tribute and recognition of Indigenous people and culture. As a place of

education, it aims to teach people about the cultural significance of plants and animals for our First Peoples. The space also provides an ecosystem restoration, local Indigenous teaching and storytelling, and the development of a bush tucker garden through hands-on learning with the University’s environmental experts and Indigenous Elders. Importantly, it is a space where staff, students, and the community can gather and feel connected to both the University and the natural environment.

To access Western Sydney University’s Indigenous Futures 2023-2032 Decadal Strategy please follow: https://www. westernsydney.edu.au/content/dam/ digital/pdf/DecadelStrategy.pdf

‘For Our Elders.’ Moving the Annual Yarramundi Lecture to NAIDOC week proved to be a popular transition. Our keynote speakers this year comprised of members of Western’s Elder Advisory Committee, all of whom did an outstanding job as they generously shared their knowledges with the audience. On Thursday of NAIDOC week, Western was blessed by beautiful sunshine as we opened our First Peoples Walk at our Kingswood Campus. This beautiful space pays tribute to Indigenous culture and knowledges. I strongly encourage everyone to spend some time at the walk. At the same time, we also launched our 2023-2032 Indigenous

Futures Decadal Strategy. This document articulates our ambition to build the next generation of Indigenous Leaders over the next decade and beyond.

As we move closer to the time when Australians will take to the polling booth to vote on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, we continue our commitment to provide staff and students with information to assist them to make an informed decision. There has been a hive of activity across our campuses in relation to this important referendum, which I’m incredibly proud of and thankful for.

Finally, the planning for the new Indigenous Centre of Excellence is well underway. We are in the process of running a national design competition and anticipate announcing a winning design at the end of this year. It is one of the most exciting projects I have had the honour of being involved in, particularly as it will provide a unique place where our communities can connect as we celebrate Indigenous excellence in all aspects of the Centre. I look forward to keeping you updated on the progress of this space.

Professor Michelle Trudgett (BA, MPS, EdD) Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership

Professor Michelle Trudgett. Photography: Sally Tsoutas.

Uncle Chris Tobin addressing Western Sydney University staff, students and community. Photography: Sally Tsoutas.

Allira Johnson. Photography: Sally Tsoutas.

BOLD conversations Ruby

Ruby Ritchie is a Dunghutti woman studying law and arts communications living on Darug country. Ruby previously worked as a legal assistant in a firm and a racial justice not-for-profit before moving into communications at Western Sydney University. She is currently the Director of Student Publications at W’SUP (Western Sydney University Paper) and is working on producing the latest Print Edition on the Wellbeing theme with her team. Ruby hopes to become an investigative journalist and author.

In the following segment Ruby explores Blak and White thinking, and her place in the 2023 referendum.

I can’t remember it ever being announced that I was Blak, other than knowing my Dad told me when I was little; just like I accepted that the sky is blue, I also accepted that I was Koori. What I was made to understand, though, was that I wasn’t like ‘other’ Blak people. I was a fair-skinned and red-haired kid, growing up in a family and community that looked the same.

My first relationships with Aboriginal people was at University when I met friends at the Badanami Centre. Our family didn’t know much of our family history beyond my great-grandfather, our family name ‘Ritchie’ even being called into question by a lack of paper trail.

My school friends felt comfortable being racist, and even after identifying myself, would call me slurs as a ‘joke’, whilst other people would simply say, ‘You aren’t Aboriginal.’ I would awkwardly laugh it off and pretend I was not hurt, attributing it to ignorance and suppressing the doubt I began to feel.

Yet after the government released the Voice proposal, my friends suddenly

Ritchie

became more vocal about First Nations issues. They would post colourful social media graphics with statistics about youth incarceration or Indigenous deaths in custody in pretty, frilly font and a caption with the hashtag #voteyes.

It was unbelievably grating. I felt like I wasn’t Blak enough to contribute to the discussion. Yet, white people could get on a social media soapbox to preach about Blak issues remaining secure in their racial identity.

Even though I had concerns about the Voice proposal, I would tell myself that my future wasn’t directly impacted, so I shouldn’t count in the discussion. Gnawing away at these thoughts was an overwhelming question of why? Why do I feel I don’t have a place in the discussion?

In November 2022, I met Mark Dreyfus KC, the Attorney General of Australia, who came to speak to the University. There, I dared to ask a powerful figure about First Nations issues for the first time. Asking those questions made me realise why I never felt entitled to contribute to conversations about Blak issues in the first place; the ‘white trespasser complex’.

When non-Indigenous people have told me that I am not ‘really Aboriginal’, I felt like a white trespasser in a conversation with First Nations peoples. When you are a trespasser in a community, how could you possibly have a right to speak about changes to that community?

You feel like an alien stranded between two nations, able to understand what language each group is speaking but unable to respond to either group. Blak and white, racialised and privileged, included but simultaneously othered; these binaries encompass the struggles

that come with Blak identity and leave you stranded out of the conversation.

Having understood this complex, I enrolled in a unit called Law and Public Policy: The Voice to Parliament Referendum. The unit involved students engaging with local communities surrounding the factual background of the Voice. I opted to write an article on W’SUP called ‘Vote with Care; A Guide to the Voice to Parliament; It was an article that empowered me as an Aboriginal woman, as I finally got to spread awareness about issues that affect Blak people without feeling fraudulent.

As new insights are revealed about the Voice to Parliament referendum, I remain confident in my stance. If you were to ask me my view a few months ago, however, I would have told you that I was unsure whether I deserved to have my voice heard. Now I know that no matter the stance taken, we must endeavour to listen to all First Nations peoples’ perspectives.

Questioning your racial identity as a First Nations person can be a lifelong struggle, but it does not make you any less entitled to contribute to Blak conversations; if anything, you add a new perspective. Actively concealing your opinion for fear of not ‘being Blak enough’ goes against the purpose of the referendum.

No definitive standard of ‘Blakness’ is required to share your opinion about issues affecting you, your kin and your community. It is the inclusion of First Nations voices that is essential in this referendum proposal. So don’t fret; understanding your racial identity isn’t always Blak or white, and it does not make you a trespasser in community conversations, as you were always a part of these conversations.

The Bold Conservation segment encourages Indigenous staff and students to share to promote discussions in a culturally safe environment.

Ruby Ritchie.

Yarramundi Lecture explores the ‘For Our Elder’ NAIDOC Theme

Western Sydney University was proud to host its annual Yarramundi Lecture exploring the 2023 NAIDOC theme ‘For Our Elders’ on Tuesday, 4 July.

The event, which is central to the University’s longstanding commitment to its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, celebrates Indigenous history, culture and achievements.

Held at Western Sydney University’s Parramatta South campus, this year’s event brought together students, staff and members of the community to discuss issues of local and national importance.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership, Professor Michelle Trudgett said the panel consisted of members of Western’s Indigenous Elders Advisory Committee.

The esteemed members included Aunty Cindy Laws, Aunty Fran Bodkin, Uncle Chris Tobin and Aunty Rasme Prior, as well as Aunty Rayna St Julian.

“The panel at this year’s Yarramundi Lecture shared stories from the heart, reflecting on their significant life experiences and personal matters of importance,” said Professor Trudgett.

“The forum encouraged robust discussion from prominent Indigenous leaders who generously shared their insights, in the hope to inform the community on how we can better embrace Indigenous knowledge.”

Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost Clare Pollock opened the event, and the closing student address was given by Kayden Edwards.

Aunty Rasme Prior, Elder and Member of the Indigenous Elder Advisory Committee of Western Sydney University said she was honoured to present at the 25th Yarramundi Lecture alongside esteemed Elders of Western’s Indigenous Elders Advisory Committee.

“The Yarramundi Lecture is an important forum where we are empowered to discuss issues of importance and celebrate our cultural successes. The lecture was established out of respect and recognition of First Nations People and is named after Darug chief Yarramundi who was a traditional Elder of the Boorooberongal clan.”

“The event allowed me to reflect on the strong legacy my Elders have passed on through intergenerational sharing of cultural protocols, activism and achievement in very challenging times. It also grounded me in the realization that there is still a long way to go, yet with the new generations of Indigenous graduates and leaders I am very hopeful for the future. As we move towards a referendum there is no time more urgent to sit and listen to Elders, so this was a fantastic event,” said Aunty Rasme.

The University has a longstanding commitment to supporting Indigenous people’s aspirations, including across education, research, and as future leaders. Read more about Western Sydney University’s Indigenous Strategy 2020-2025 by following: https://www. westernsydney.edu.au/__data/assets/ pdf_file/0010/1672462/2020-2025_ Indigenous_Strategy_FINAL.pdf

Aunty Rayna St Julian, Aunty Cindy Laws, Dr Michelle Locke, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Michelle Trudgett, Aunty Rasme Prior, Kayden Edwards, Dr Scott Avery, Aunty Fran Bodkin and Uncle Chris Tobin (Left to right). Photography: Sally Tsoutas.

Aunty Rayna St Julian, Aunty Rasme Prior, Uncle Chris Tobin, Aunty Fran Bodkin and Aunty Cindy Laws (Left to right). Photography: Sally Tsoutas.

Shaping the Future at the 2023 Indigenous Staff Conference

On Tuesday the 18 th of July Western Sydney University’s Indigenous staff members came together to celebrate, reflect and learn at the annual Indigenous Staff Conference at Bankstown Campus. The 2023 conference theme was ‘Shaping the Future’ providing all full-time and part-time Indigenous staff the opportunity to network and learn about the on-going developments in the Indigenous portfolio at Western.

Western celebrates NAIDOC Week

Western Sydney University recently celebrated NAIDOC Week. From the 2nd - 9th of July, Western Sydney University and The Office of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership honoured the rich cultures and histories of Australia’s Indigenous Peoples during NAIDOC Week. The stories, cultures and achievements of our country’s First Nation Peoples were celebrated not only in Indigenous communities, but by all Australians. Western hosted several online and face-to-face events to celebrate this year’s NAIDOC Week theme of ‘For Our Elders’.

To launch Western Sydney University’s NAIDOC week activities the Badanami team hosted a pizza lunch and yarning session with students, staff and community at Liverpool Campus on Monday. On Tuesday Western held its 25th Yarramundi Lecture featuring the Indigenous Elders Advisory Committee members. The event was well attended by a huge audience on Parramatta South Campus. On Wednesday the Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education held a BBQ lunch at Hawkesbury campus with Aunty Jean South and Wayne Clark yarning about the importance of coming together and celebrating our Elders and knowledge holders in communities. On Thursday, the Office of the Deputy ViceChancellor Indigenous Leadership held the opening of the First Peoples Walk on Kingswood campus and launched the 2023-2032 Indigenous Futures Decadal Strategy. To conclude the NAIDOC week celebrations the Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education hosted a pizza lunch at Campbelltown campus.

Western’s students and staff were also invited to test their knowledge and have fun while taking part in the annual NAIDOC Week quiz. Participants answered multiple choice quiz questions and reflected on the significance of NAIDOC week and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures in short answer responses. The Office of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership would like to thank you for your entries and congratulate the following:

Western Sydney University Staff Winners:

• 1st Prize, Merryn Horrock

• 2nd Prize, Cassidy Gepp

• 3rd Prize, Natalee Koller

Western Sydney University Student Winners:

• 1st Prize, Rose Lewis

• 2nd Prize, Marni Stanley

• 3rd Prize, Annalise Galofaro

To learn more about upcoming Indigenous events at Western Sydney University please follow https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/ aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander/ events

Professor Clare Pollock, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost provided the welcoming address and provided great strategic insight into higher education in the sector. The Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor congratulated Western’s staff on their collegiality, teamwork and commitment through the year. She noted that it is an important moment to serve and empower Indigenous Australian communities as we continue to become an anchor institution to the region and a national leader in Indigenous education, employment and research.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership Professor Michelle Trudgett also yarned through Western’s achievements under the 2020-2025 Indigenous Strategy and the ambitious aspirations set in the new Indigenous Futures Decadal Strategy.

Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine, Senior Coordinator of Indigenous Employment, then officially launched the Indigenous Professional Staff Leadership Program that is imbedded in the existing Professional Staff Mentoring Program. Additionally, we heard from students and staff on representative panels discussing their experiences at Western and insights into their future ambitions.

Fiona Towney, Director of Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education, chaired a student panel featuring Andrew Webster, Ted Vanderfeen, Lily Currell and Kelsey Sealb. Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine, Senior Coordinator of Indigenous Employment, chaired a trainee panel featuring alumni of the IGNITE trainee program Korinne Bargiel, Allira Johnson and Monique Tait-Owens.

(continued overleaf) 5

Photography: Sally Tsoutas.

(continued from previous page)

Following the panel discussions,

Professor Michelle Trudgett and Thomas Klobucar provided an update on the progress of the Indigenous Centre of Excellence. All staff were excited to hear of the continued progress on this project.

After lunch the Indigenous staff network tested their communication, teamwork and construction skills in competitive team-building clay and trivia activities.

Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership, said the annual Indigenous Staff Conference was a huge success.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate how much we have achieved at Western, whilst acknowledging all that there is still to do in this space. I enjoyed engaging in ongoing discussions around Western’s key strategic priorities and hearing insights from Indigenous staff across different schools and faculties. I would like to thank all involved in organising and facilitating the event, particularly the

Western’s Annual Indigenous Writing Workshops celebrates the success and work of Indigenous academics and Higher Degree Research students

From the 12th – 14th of July Western Sydney University held its 2023 Annual Indigenous Writing Workshop at the Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury Valley. Indigenous academics and higher degree research students engaged in three days of writing workshops, inspiration sessions, methodological discussions, and free and therapeutic writing sessions. The writing workshop was a great networking opportunity for the Indigenous Research Network and was very productive with many working on their theses, journal articles and book chapters.

Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership, really enjoyed the annual Indigenous Writing Workshops.

Indigenous Employment Team. I would also like to extend my thanks to all attendees for their enthusiasm and contributions,” said Professor Trudgett.

“The event showcased the importance of connectedness and community at Western. Offering a fantastic networking opportunity for our mob to connect and discuss the matters going on within the Western Sydney University Indigenous Community.”

Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine, Senior Coordinator of Indigenous Employment, said she was honoured and excited to launch the Indigenous Professional Staff Leadership Program.

“The Indigenous Professional Staff Leadership Program is an important step in building a more diverse and inclusive workforce at Western. The Conference demonstrated Western’s commitment to serve our communities with excellence and integrity, and building the next generation of Indigenous leaders,” said Miss Talbot-Mundine.

To find out more about Westerns commitment to Indigenous staff, students and community please read the 2020-2025 Indigenous Strategy by following the link, https://www. westernsydney.edu.au/__data/assets/ pdf_file/0010/1672462/2020-2025_ Indigenous_Strategy_FINAL.pdf

“It was a wonderful three days of hard work, sharing, and fun. I was exceptionally proud of the critical conversations that arose from Professor Bodkin-Andrews’ presentations, where both staff and HDR students freely shared the Indigenous protocols and strengths they commit to when writing. The workshops were wellplanned and facilitated to allow time for knowledge sharing, intensive writing and celebrations of the New South Wales State of Origin Blues win. I would like to thank Professor Gawaian Bodkin-Andrews, Western’s Director of Indigenous Research, for organising and facilitating the event,” said Professor Trudgett.

Professor Gawaian Bodkin-Andrews, Western’s Director of Indigenous Research, gifted all academics and higher degree research students in attendance a native tree or shrub.

“I was honoured to see the event so well attended, and as per D’harawal traditions, I was happy to take part in gifting a series of native plants. Each plant had many traditional medicinal uses and were also featured in numerous D’harawal Garuwanga (Dreaming) Stories, including how the White Waratah became Red, Dahl’wah – how the Casuarina came to be, How the Wombat lost its Tail (the native mint), and the Sisters Bookerrikin (wattle). It was great to see so much hard work being done by all, and I was pleasantly surprised to see the planned 15-minute critical yarns extend to well over an hour as we shared our own livedexperiences of best practices using Indigenous research methodologies. Finally, a massive thanks to the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership for funding the event,” said Professor Bodkin-Andrews.

To learn more about higher degree research opportunities please follow https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/ future/study/courses/research

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Michelle Trudgett addressing Western’s Indigenous staff.

Indigenous academics and HDR students at the three-day intensive Writing Workshops.

Western partners with the Greater Western Sydney GIANTS

Western is proud to announce its recent partnership with the Greater Western Sydney GIANTS (GWS GIANTS). This partnership has already seen great engagement opportunities come to fruition.

Western is particularly proud to support the AFL Women’s Partnership with GWS Giants. Our University became the back of jersey sponsor for the GWS GIANTS AFL Women’s team for this season. Aligning with the university’s values in diversity and equality, the partnership will help to develop awareness of shared values of championing diversity on and off the field. AFL goal posts are also now installed at the Parramatta South Campus, as Western and GIANTS hope to continue engaging students in experiences and opportunities to collaborate with the GWS GIANTS.

Western’s Future Students Team and GWS GIANTS further collaborated on the Unlocking Careers in Sport Conference which had over 90 prospective Indigenous students, teachers and family members along for an interactive day of workshops. Malcolm Lynch, GWS GIANTS’ Indigenous Inclusion and Diversity Manager was a part of the conference panel and spoke to prospective about his journey into a career in sport. The GWS GIANTS also provided an opportunity for all conference attendees to take part in a number of experiences taking place during Sir Doug Nicholls Round including free tickets to attend GIANTS v St Kilda, food vouchers for the game, access to the VAILO Community Centre before the game and an opportunity to go on field in the Guard of Honour as the GIANTS ran out for the game. 30 students took part in the additional GWS GIANTS opportunity on the day.

Western hosts the Red Heart of Australia exhibition

The Institute for Australian and Chinese Arts and Culture at Western Sydney University was thrilled to exhibit Red Heart of Australia from the National Museum of Australia at the art space on Parramatta South campus. It included eight paintings created by Aboriginal artists from across central Australia and were selected from the National

Western’s Future Students team and the GWS GIANTS worked together to further provide the opportunity for local primary and high school students to submit an Indigenous design to be painted on match worn boots by three GWS GIANTS players during Sir Doug Nicholls Round. Over 70 designs were submitted, with one high school and two primary school aged winners being chosen. Winners were also invited to the pre-match experience and old field experiences alongside the attendees of the Unlocking Careers in sport conference.

The GWS GIANTS were excited to include Western in their Sir Doug Nicholls Round celebrations. Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy ViceChancellor Indigenous Leadership won the on-field coin toss on the day and six Western staff were invited to be a part of our Chairman’s Lounge for the game, with special guest Nicky Winmar.

Sophie Partridge, the Director of Future Student Engagement at Western Sydney University is excited to see what this partnership will bring for both Western and the GIANTS.

Museum of Australia’s collection. The exhibition was opened on the 15th of June by Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Indigenous Leadership, and Rauny Worm, Head of Visitor Experience National Museum of Australia in Canberra. There was also musical performance by Bundjalung music student Ethan Teuma and Band. The exhibition ran until the 28 th of July.

The Institute for Australian and Chinese Arts and Culture recognises how knowing and understanding Indigenous history

“Partnering with the GIANTS team really helped bring the skills and talents of Indigenous primary and high school students into the celebrating the Indigenous round in a meaningful way. The Unlocking Careers event also provided Indigenous high school students with insight into the range of professions and careers in sports and health, along with the opportunity to speak with an amazing group of role models working in these areas,” said Ms Partridge.

Malcolm Lynch, the Indigenous Diversity Inclusion Manager for the GWS Giants said it is a really exciting time for GWS GIANTS to partner with Western.

“The partnership seems like a natural fit as we collaboratively strive to make positive social change and create more educational and sporting opportunities for Indigenous Australian people and communities across Greater Western Sydney,” said Mr Lynch.

To learn more about the GWS GIANTS please follow https://www.gwsgiants. com.au/

and culture through Indigenous art is empowering and powerful. The Institute took this opportunity to promote protocols for using First Nations cultural and Intellectual Property in the Arts and is looking forward to sharing more artistic representations of Indigenous Australian cultures, languages, history and contemporary experiences of mob in future exhibitions. This exhibition was well attended giving our students, staff and community the opportunity to enjoy the art and deepen understandings of the histories and cultures portrayed.

GWS GIANT Joshua Kelly gifted his Sir Doug Nicholls Round boots to Avery, who designed the artwork on them. Photography: GWS GIANTS.

Josh Mason, Nicky Winmar and Deputy ViceChancellor Professor Michelle Trudgett at the Sir Doug Nicholls Round.

Students

WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY’S INDIGENOUS STUDENTS ACHIEVE GREAT THINGS

Seven deadly questions: Introducing Audree Campbell

Who are you?

Hi, my name is Audree Campbell. I am a third-year university student studying in the School of Social Sciences.

Who is your mob?

I am a proud Bigambul woman living on beautiful Dharug Nurra.

What community or cultural events have you been involved in lately or will you engage in this year?

I really enjoy attending community and cultural events where I get to catch up with mob and meet new people. Recently, I went to the Hawkesbury NAIDOC Ball with friends and colleagues from Western. I was honoured to attend the Indigenous University Nationals at Monash University where we competed against mobs from all over Australia. During NAIDOC Week I attended Western’s Yarramundi Lecture where we listened and learnt from the stories of our Elders. I have also been an active ambassador for Western in the Pathways to Dreaming and Heartbeat Programs and am currently an Indigenous Officer at the Future Student Service Hub supporting all students with enquiries about tertiary pathways.

Why did you choose to study at Western Sydney University?

I chose to study at Western because of the support offered through Badanami and the Pathways to Dreaming program.

Have you faced any challenges as an Indigenous student? If so, how did you overcome them?

The transition to University was challenging for me. The academic writing and expectations were different from high school, therefore it took me a little while to understand the content and develop my academic voice.

Western’s Indigenous Nationals team celebrated success at the National Indigenous University Games for 2023

After months of planning, training and working on logistics, on Monday 26th June Western’s Indigenous Nationals team headed to Victoria for the 2023 Games, which were hosted by Monash University. The team were excited to compete, build their networks and engage in all of the events in beautiful Nam.

Tutoring for success and other help from Western has helped me overcome this.

When you graduate from Western Sydney University what do you hope to achieve?

I am passionate about social work and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to enhance overall wellbeing and meet basic and complex needs. I am interested in working in the tertiary education space in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to access pathways and networks to achieve their aspirations and break stereotypes.

You are clearly a busy person with lots of commitments, what are your top 5 tips towards success for other Indigenous Western Sydney University students?

1. B uy a diary! Organise your time and manage all of your commitments and events. Write things down and plan out your week in advance.

2. A sk questions and get familiar with support services!

3. Step outside of your comfort zones! Universities are a place to explore different groups, disciplines and social events.

4. Take time to look after yourself and your mental health! Your pathway through university is a marathon not a sprint.

5. G et involved with the mob at the university, other students, staff, Elders and local communities.

The first sport played was basketball, where the team put in a massive effort for all three of their pool games. The team started strong with a win for our first game. The team played their hearts out with slim losses to the University of Newcastle and Queensland University of Technology. Congratulations to Charles Darwin University who were the overall winners of Basketball for this year’s nationals. The team had a great night also as they celebrated with Tiana Thompson for her 21st birthday at a team dinner.

Wednesday was netball day and Western won all three games in their pool. In the first game they scored a whooping 23-13 points against the University of Sunshine Coast. The next game they had a winning result of 24-17 against Adelaide University. The third game in the pool was close with a 12-8 win against Curtin University. The team made it to the semi-finals and just fell short with a 21-14 score against Australian Catholic University. Despite not being victorious, the team demonstrated great sportsmanship.

Thursday was Touch Footy day. The team had a deadly time on the footy fields despite freezing in the early 8am game which was fairly challenging in Melbourne in winter! They warmed up during the day and won their fourth game against Edith Cowan University scoring 5-3.

(continued overleaf)

Audree Campbell. Photography: Sally Tsoutas.

Friday was Western’s final day of competition and the team had fun playing volleyball. Western’s spirits were high however the team did not manage to progress to the semis. The team attended the closing ceremony and celebrated with Queensland University who were the overall winners of the Indigenous Nationals for 2023.

Congratulations also to the female MVP for Western Sydney University Abbey Zabielo and the male MVP Andrew Webster. Also, Kayden Edwards was awarded the Bird-Delaney Medal for Overall Sportsmanship, Attitude and Commitment. Western are incredibly proud of the team. They were a great group of young Indigenous students

who all appreciated the experience that was offered to them. Great leadership was shown by the team captains, Abbey Zabielo and Luke Davis, while the team camaraderie by those participating was great to watch.

A special thanks to staff members Sarah Kennedy, Josh Mason and Wayne Clark for giving up their time to attend training sessions and to travel with the team. Many thanks to Professor Michelle Trudgett and Fiona Towney who travelled to Melbourne to cheer on the team.

Abbey Zabielo said participating in the 2023 Indigenous Nationals at Monash University in Melbourne was an incredible honour.

IGNITE trainee, Korinne Bargiel, was recognised as a finalist in the 2023 Indigenous Trainee of the Year NSW Training Awards

Western Sydney University would like to congratulate Korinne Bargiel who was recently recognised as a finalist for the Indigenous trainee of the year 2023 in the NSW Training Awards, Western Sydney and Blue Mountains Region. The award recognised Korinne’s efforts as a previous IGNITE Indigenous Trainee in 2022. The awards program promotes Vocational Education Training (VET)

“As a proud Kabi Kabi woman, this experience held deep meaning as I represented my people, community, and university. Captaining and playing alongside such passionate, kind, and determined Indigenous students, who served as role models in our community, made the experience even more special. I want to also express my heartfelt gratitude to Western Sydney University, especially the Badanami team, for making this unforgettable experience possible for me and my teammates. Their unwavering support and generosity created memories that I will cherish forever. Bring on next year,” said Abbey Zabielo.

Western cannot wait to do it all again next year at the University of Wollongong.

and saw each awardee tell their stories about their Vocational Education Training experiences and how this has helped them, changed their lives or career paths.

Korinne is a proud Saltwater woman with family ties to Darug, Garigal, Awabakal and Wiradjuri peoples. In 1993, Korinne successfully completed her trade certificate in Pastry Cooking, and remained in the trade for 28 years. After taking a break from employment to care for her family and reflecting on the positive journey she had as an apprentice, Korinne knew that she wanted to complete a traineeship to get hands on experience and training. She decided to apply for a business traineeship with Western and retrain to re-enter the workforce.

Western Sydney University’s Indigenous Nationals team with Fiona Towney, Professor Michelle Trudgett, Wayne Clarke and Dr Sarah Kennedy.

Andrew Webster, Kayden Edwards and Abbey Zabielo (Left to right).

Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine, Korinne Bargiel and Corey Kelly (Left to right).

Students

(continued from previous page)

Korinne was the first in her family to complete an apprenticeship and is a strong advocate for family members and other mob to pursue VET pathways. She is very proud to have family following her path and pursuing their own journey through vocational education.

Korinne said she was honoured to be nominated and recognised as a finalist in the NSW Awards.

“It was a fantastic celebration of vocational education success. My experience as an IGNITE trainee has been such a positive step forward. Completing this qualification has motivated me to reach out for more opportunities and engage with the community. During my traineeship I was able to share my passions and interests in Aboriginal cultural arts, and build lifelong friendships and networks,” said Korinne Bargiel.

Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine, Senior Coordinator of Indigenous Employment, had the pleasure of attending the 2023 NSW Training Awards to celebrate Korinne’s nomination.

“It was a fantastic night networking with other industries that support and encourage Vocational Education and Training. This nomination was a testament to Korinne on her efforts throughout her traineeship, not only for her own development but also the pastoral support she offered her peers. I would like to also thank Corey Kelly and the team from Souths Cares for supporting Korinne on the night and during her trainee journey alongside her fellow IGNITE Trainees,” said Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine

Western would like to congratulate Korinne once again for her recent achievement and wish her the best of luck with future endeavours.

Da Murrytoola

Aboriginal Education Excellence Awards recognises 68 Indigenous primary and high school students

On Tuesday the 16th of May, the Future Students Engagement team partnered with Da Murrytoola Aboriginal Education Consultative Group for the second annual Da Murrytoola Aboriginal Education Excellence Awards. Da Murrytoola Aboriginal Education Consultative Group is the AECG for public education in the Hawkesbury region. The event was based upon Indigenous community requests and recommendations to recognise and celebrate the achievements of Aboriginal kids. Too often Indigenous student achievement is unacknowledged in mainstream education, so these awards were a fantastic opportunity to bring together the community and celebrate success across our region.

The event was held on Hawkesbury campus with over 320 Indigenous school students, parents, careers, extended family, teachers, school staff and Aboriginal community attending. Western’s Future Student Engagement team would like to thank Rhiannon Wright for Welcoming everyone to Country.

68 awards were presented to Aboriginal primary and high school students to acknowledge and celebrate Indigenous leadership, resiliency, creativity, sporting, academic and deadly allround young people. The awards were presented by special guests including Darug custodians, Department of Education and Training Leadership Staff, local Aboriginal organisations and the Future Student Engagement Team.

The Future Student Engagement team were significantly involved in the organisation and planning of the event and organised the venue, set up, award printing and catering. Cultural Gifts donated by Future Students were given to the Deadly All Rounder Award winners.

Amelia Corr, Future Student Engagement Senior Project Support Officer, made a formal address on behalf of Western Sydney University where she acknowledged the students, their families and welcomed them to the university.

“This was the first time many mob stepped onto a University campus. It was just amazing to see everyone come together to recognise and celebrate the achievements of our young mob. I would like to congratulate and thank the Year 12 Indigenous Australian student from Richmond High who emceed the event and the talented young students who provided musical and singing performances,” said Mrs Corr.

To learn more about the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group Inc. please follow: https://www.aecg.nsw.edu.au

Da Murrytoola AECG Awardees.

Staff

WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY’S PASSIONATE INDIGENOUS STAFF

Seven deadly questions: Introducing Dr Dean Norris

Who are you?

My name is Dr Dean Norris and was born in Sydney. I am a descendant of the Wonnarua people through my mum’s side.

Who is your mob?

Wonnarua people, which is located in the region that is now known as the Hunter Valley.

What community/cultural events have you been involved in lately?

On several occasions over the last year, I have volunteered to help with the fitness testing of the youth athletes for the South Western Sydney Academy of Sports. One of these testing occasions was used for Indigenous athlete talent identification where it was good to see 50+ students in attendance.

More recently however I have got to go back on Country and spend time with my mob for a book launch that my uncle is doing which gives insight into the Wonnarua people and their connection with the land with an amazing and breathtaking collection of photos of carvings, sacred sites and artwork.

What is your current position at Western Sydney University and how long have you worked at the University?

This my 8th year with Western, where I first started my journey with the University as PhD student and then a post-doctoral research fellow which was both supported by Western and the GWS Giants. I am now into my third year as a full time Lecturer in Exercise and Sports Science.

Staff Updates

Western Sydney University would like to congratulate the following Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander staff members on their new appointments:

• Kelsie King appointed as an Executive Officer in the Office of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership.

• Professor Donna Hartz appointed as Clinical Chair in Midwifery in the School of Nursing and Midwifery.

• Shalom De Vera appointed as a School Administration Officer in the School of Nursing and Midwifery.

Have you always aspired to work in tertiary education?

I have been quite lucky over my career one foot in both applied practice and one foot in academia. However, I always really enjoyed the research and teaching side of academia and knew that I ultimately, I wanted to be a part of helping develop the next generation of exercise and sports science students.

What is your favourite thing about working at Western Sydney University? It may be cliché but I really do have to say the people. From my time as a PhD student to starting my teaching during the years that were heavily affected via COVID, I have had nothing but support from my fellow colleagues. As I am getting to meet more colleagues at Western despite being spread across multiple campuses, I do feel a strong sense of community and ability to be able to collaborate.

Do you have any advice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people wanting to work at Western Sydney University?

I can only echo my comments from above, the support and people are great. As someone who found out about my connection to land later in life (I was 17), it has been great to come to Western and feel included and connected to my fellow Indigenous members and staff at Western and feel part of the community. Go for it!

• Wayne Clark appointed as an Indigenous Engagement Coordinator in the Infrastructure and Commercial Division.

We would also like to congratulate the following Indigenous staff members who received promotions:

• D r Sarah Kennedy promoted to Senior Lecturer in the School of Health Sciences.

• D r Scott Avery promoted to Associate Lecturer in the School of Social Sciences.

Upcoming events

Western Sydney University has planned a number of face-to-face and digital events in the coming months to showcase Indigenous knowledges, success and stories and empower networking and learning opportunities across all teams and Schools. All events may be subject to change. Please follow the link for updates on Western’s calendar and upcoming events: http://www.westernsydney.edu. au/aboriginal-and-torres-straitislander/events

Dr Dean Norris.

Western appoints the deadly Corey Aden Tutt OAM to the position of Adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Science

Western Sydney University is proud to announce its appointment of Adjunct Associate Professor Corey Aden Tutt OAM in the School of Science. This appointment was awarded in recognition of Adjunct Associate Professor Tutt’s significant contributions as an Indigenous STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) leader, an advocate, educator, author and mentor in communities across Australia.

Adjunct Associate Professor Tutt is a proud Kamilaroi man and from a young age developed a love of STEM but found little encouragement for Aboriginal people to pursue careers in STEM. A key reason was that regional and remote schools were often critically underresourced, and their students did not receive the same learning experiences as students in urban areas. To address this deficiency, Adjunct Associate Professor Tutt worked two jobs to purchase and send resources to some of these schools. In 2018, he founded DeadlyScience, a not-for-profit organisation to provide STEM resources and learning experiences to regional and remote schools in Australia and connect young Indigenous people with STEM professionals.

DeadlyScience has grown to be Australia’s leading Indigenous STEM charity working with over 800 schools and community organisations across all states and territories. DeadlyScience has provided over 16,000 culturally appropriate books focused on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) as well as telescopes, microscopes, Lego and other equipment to spark student interest. Schools involved with DeadlyScience have reported a 25% increase in engagement in STEM and increased attendance.

As a board member of Seed Mob and part of Science Technology Australia’s EDI committee, Adjunct Associate Professor Tutt is contributing to the development of multiple Reconciliation Action Plans to further encourage participation and inclusion of First Nations peoples in STEM. He has a passion for Indigenous education which has also been recognised through various awards including Young Australian of the Year for New South Wales 2020; CSIRO Indigenous STEM Champion 2019; AMP Tomorrow Maker 2019; 7 News Indigenous Young Achiever of the Year 2022; ABC Trailblazer 2019; 2020

Eureka prize winner; Wollongong to the World Citizen of the Year; and the only Aboriginal member of the Hall of Fame of Dapto high school. In 2020 he was named a human rights hero by the Australian Human Rights Commission and was also awarded the Order of Australia medal for his contributions to Indigenous STEM education.

In his spare time Adjunct Associate Professor Tutt writes for K-Zone magazine and has authored several books including ‘This Book Thinks Ya Deadly’ and ‘The First Scientists’ which just won the highly prestigious Patricia Wrightson Prize for children’s Literature.

Adjunct Associate Professor Corey Aden Tutt OAM, said that he feels honoured to have received such recognition for his commitment to community and STEM.

Professor Graciela Metternicht, Dean of the School of Science, said the School warmly welcomes the appointment of Adjunct Associate Professor Tutt.

“We are committed to establishing partnerships with Indigenous industry and community to inform on and shape our teaching and research. Corey’s breadth of knowledge, experience, and amazing networks will be invaluable to that end,” said Professor Metternicht.

Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership, says she is delighted to welcome Adjunct Associate Professor Tutt into his new role.

“We are very fortunate to have Corey join our team at Western. He is a respected leader in Indigenous Science and is passionate about expanding knowledge and understanding of Indigenous matters and increasing Indigenous people’s participation in education, using science as a vehicle of engagement. He will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, as well as immense passion and energy to the School of Science and broader University community. This is a very exciting appointment for Western,” said Professor Trudgett.

Western would once again like to congratulate Adjunct Associate Professor Tutt on his appointment and is looking forward to continuing to centre Indigenous leadership and strong community connections in the School of Science.

Adjunct Associate Professor Corey Aden Tutt OAM. The Yarning Circle

Western staff engage in discussion during Voice to Parliament webinars and events

Western Sydney University recognises its position as a knowledge sharing institution and has organised several forums to encourage discussion and information sharing this year. The Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership has hosted two all-staff webinars: the first all-staff webinar was held on the 17th of May and the second on the 24th of August. The webinars provided staff with opportunities for respectful discussion about the upcoming Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum. Both webinars featured esteemed panellists who responded to questions raised by staff in hopes to assist all in making informed decisions.

Earlier in May Professor Susan Page facilitated discussions with a group of Western Student Partners for the DVCA Divisional Forum. Jackson Edwards, Kobi Newell and Samuel Suresh discussed the Voice to Parliament, the Referendum and how they may affect young people.

The Social Justice Network further hosted an event in July at Western’s Bankstown City Campus to help ensure the Western Sydney community has access to diverse opinions and research. The event commenced with a screening of the Opening Keynote at the 2023 Universities Australia Conference by Professor Megan Davis, an informative and thought-provoking talk about Aboriginal history and colonisation. This was followed by a panel discussion led by Professor Michelle Trudgett discussing the Uluru Statement from the Heart, and whether the implementation of a Voice to Parliament will effectively acknowledge First Nations sovereignty in Australia.

Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership, thanks all event organisers, panellists and staff for engaging in meaningful discussions.

“Western Sydney University is deeply committed to facilitating opportunities where we can have an ongoing dialogue about all aspects of the Voice. The purpose of the webinars and events was to provide staff with information about the upcoming Referendum on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament,” said Professor Trudgett.

Uncle Ian Kennedy, a proud Kamilaroi man from Walgett, receives the Excellence in Indigenous Engagement and Impact Award

Western Sydney University would like to congratulate Uncle Ian Kennedy on receiving the ‘Excellence in Indigenous Engagement and Impact Award’ at the School of Medicine Awards Ceremony earlier this year. Uncle Ian is an Aboriginal Placements Support Officer at the Rural Clinical School in Bathurst. He is kept incredibly busy organising a compulsory five-week Indigenous Health Attachment placements for year 5 medical students from the School of Medicine. Uncle Ian and his team play a key role in leading staff through cultural learning and students through their Indigenous Health Attachments (IHA) and other cultural competencies.

Uncle Ian is particularly passionate about improving the health outcomes of Indigenous Australian people and ensuring all students develop understandings and knowledge about Indigenous Australians. He has worked tirelessly for almost 12 years in his role and has developed meaningful relationships with the across NSW. These didactic partnerships have allowed for excellent communication between the School of Medicine and 20+ Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services.

Uncle Ian is renowned for going above and beyond in his role in many ways in frequently maintaining contact and communication with Aboriginal Medical Service partners, with regular checkins and updates. He uses personal time to share insights about the virtues of Western to extend networks to stimulate interest and encourage support from many stakeholders. Annually, Uncle travels to meet with Aboriginal Medical Service partners

and communities ‘face to face’ to strengthen existing relationships, form new partnerships, support placement outcomes, support students on placement, keep current on community dynamics, provide feedback and receive feedback. All to benefit the host experience and student experience.

Uncle Ian supports students on an almost 24 hour/ 7 days a week model of support, regular fielding calls and emails, outside of normal work hours. He liaises regularly with accommodation providers for our students and also personally travels to each location to inspect and indorse student accommodation locations, to ensure our students are comfortable and safe whilst on placement. Uncle Ian and his team annually rosters student placement schedules. This is a very dynamic and multilayered process, with many factors needing to be evaluated to ensure students receive the best possible experience whilst on IHA.

Uncle Ian also organises Western’s Aboriginal Health Partners Gathering hosting Aboriginal Medical Service partners to review the program successes and changes and assists in steering the IHA in the best possible direction. He continually prioritises his students and the program’s success and these sentiments are echoed by the achievement and feedback from students about their experiences whilst on IHA.

Uncle Ian was honoured to receive his recent recognition.

“I was really proud to receive the award. I enjoy working with AMS partners and our students to ensures they are able to provide a higher standard of care when working with Indigenous patients in their future careers. The IHA is a pivotal moment in our students’ training and their lives in general. We see great success in our program as our students are graduating and passionate about supporting Aboriginal health outcomes with a high level of culturally appropriate care and skill,” said Uncle Ian Kennedy.

Western Sydney would once again like to congratulate Uncle Ian and thank him for always going above and beyond in his role.

To learn more about the Bathurst Clinical School please follow: https://www. westernsydney.edu.au/schools/som/ student_experience/teaching_sites/ rural_clinical_schools/clinical_ education_and_clinical_schools

Uncle Ian Kennedy.

Elders

WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY’S ELDERS

Seven deadly questions: Aunty

Rayna Shelley St-Julian of Western’s Elders Advisory Committee

Please tell us about yourself. Yomaan.

My mob are Kamilaroi. My Grandmother was born outside of Singleton in the sacred ranges of the Great Divide. It is deadly land for the people of many small surrounding nations working together to meet their needs and communicate with each other.

We are the people of the Wedge-tail Eagle totem soaring over lands and making well with country, with my moiety being the nhurraay (black snake). Even before I understood my connections to totem, I felt spiritually tied to nhurraay (black snake) and therefore connections to my Countrymy Mother. Many times, I have cared for, walked with nhurraay, held it in my hands and deeply understand its need to survive and thrive.

Who is your mob, and where are you from?

I am a Kamilaroi woman living in Sydney. Most of my life has been a story of educating, teaching and supporting Aboriginal youth in their journeys. Most of my career was spent on Wiradjuri land teaching and developing ASSPA (Aboriginal Student Support and Parent) centres. These centres provided local kids and families the opportunity to come together to learn, yarn, eat and strengthen connections to Country. This was a very rewarding time in my career as I was supported by Aboriginal communities to nurture children and young ones. It was there that Uncle Stan Grant Senior allowed me to learn Wiradjuri and teach language in the Forbes and Parkes area.

My experiences educating and mentoring young people across all communities have been both inspiring and challenging. It was these experiences that always empowered me and strengthened my connections and drive to continue making positive social change.

What does it mean to be an Elder?

It’s a position of great respect for us as people but also that people are prepared to listen and consider their own actions. It also allows for yarning which brings knowledge forward for all and as an Elder I know that I can do this with support and kindness in my life from others not necessarily Elders.

Who inspires you?

My inspiration is my Aboriginal naanga (Grandmother). She was one who instilled immense strength, power and resilience in me. She would tell me stories of the Sorry Business she experienced as a child when witnessing the massacre of her people and the continuation of considered rights of the Waterloo Creek massacre- 1837-1838. It is recorded that 200-300 people were massacred with many more undocumented. When she would recount this story to me, I would listen and we would cry together. She was a true inspiration in my life as she taught me to measure my sorrow and always look for opportunities to turn challenging life experiences into learning experiences.

Why have you joined the Elder’s Advisory Committee of Western Sydney University?

I joined the committee to connect with people and continue to share knowledge and learn. I am a very social person and have enjoyed attending the committee meetings at Western. It’s possible as an Elder to focus on culture and connection thereby allowing others to look at themselves.

What are your hopes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in years to come?

My hope for all people is to not be discounted as a human. As Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people we need to keep yarning, listening and learning. We all need to continue learning and strengthening our connections. I hope to that youth can see their own skills and have confidence in themselves thereby building resilience to the max.

Do you have any advice for the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are striving to make change in community?

There are a lot of young mob in the next generation striving to make change which is deadly!!! I would encourage our next generations to continue to build their own trust and know their own truth. Our young people need support in making their own treaty with Country- our Mother. Our young people must understand how valuable their voices, skills and spirit are.

Aunty Rayna Shelley St-Julian. Photography: Sally Tsoutas.

Research

CELEBRATING INDIGENOUS RESEARCH AT WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY

Western Sydney University is very proud of our Indigenous academics and higher degree research students. Please read about some of their outstanding research that was completed earlier this year.

Duy Tran, Corrinne Sullivan , & Lucy Nicholas. (2023). Lateral violence and microaggressions in the LGBTQ+ community: a scoping review. Journal of homosexuality, 70(7), 1310-1324.

Kim Spurway, Corrinne Sullivan , John Leha, William Trewlynn, Linda Briskman, & Karen Soldatic. (2023). “I felt invisible”: First nations LGBTIQSB+ young people’s experiences with health service provision in Australia. Journal of Gay & Lesbian Social Services, 35(1), 68-91.

Matilda Harry, Michelle Trudgett , Susan Page, & Rebekah Grace. (2023). Researching and reorienting mentorship practices to empower the success of Indigenous Australian young people. The Australian Journal of Indigenous Education, 52(1). https://doi.org/10.55146/ajie. v52i1.46

Sarah Kennedy. (2023). A strong foundation for life. Future Makers Issue on Gender Equality https:// www.westernsydney.edu.au/ future-makers/gender-equality/astrong-foundation-for-life

The Third Annual Indigenous Professoriate Lecture featuring Associate Professor

On the 23rd of May, Western Sydney University’s Indigenous Professoriate held its third biannual lecture in the new series. Western’s Indigenous Professoriate is growing and passionate about contributing to national and international conversations regarding Indigenous recognition and the respectful dissemination of Indigenous knowledge. Following two engaging lectures held by Professor Gawaian Bodkin-Andrews and Professor Susan Page last year, Associate Professor Sandra Phillips gave the third lecture. Associate Professor Phillips’ lecture was entitled Indigenous Writing and Australian Futures.

In her lecture, Associate Professor Phillips discussed how Indigenous writing continues millennial tradition of storytelling while innovating our story forms; it reflects ourselves back to ourselves while nudging alternative ambition; and it acts as mirror to Australian society while getting readers to imagine different futures. By quoting the online database, BlackWords, she presented records which show over 25,000 entries of Indigenous writing and storytelling from over 7,000 Indigenous authors and organisations. Associate Professor Phillips questioned if written words reflect faces of a society, and if we should develop better ways to understand what Indigenous writing is saying about us and about Australian futures?

Through reflections on 30 years involvement in making books, Associate Professor Phillips helped to establish the audiences’ understandings of the genre diversity of Indigenous writing. She

Sandra Phillips

encouraged the audience to consider the distinctiveness of Indigenous writing irrespective of genre and took a deeper dive into selected works from this modern era. Associate Professor Phillips explored recurring themes across this canon and discussed the University’s role in the making, reading, and impact of Indigenous writing.

Associate Professor Sandra Phillips, School of Humanities and Communication Arts, was thrilled to give the third lecture.

“Western Sydney University’s longstanding commitment to writing and society was part of the attraction of joining the Indigenous professoriate here. I was thrilled to be invited to speak to my passion about Indigenous writing and its place in society but also its greater potential in universities, particularly Western Sydney University,” said Associate Professor Phillips.

Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership, thanks Associate Professor Phillips for the insights provided in her lecture.

“Associate Professor Sandra Phillips is a valued member of Western’s growing Indigenous professoriate and is highly respected in the higher education sector for her extensive research and passions for expanding knowledge of Indigenous matters. Sandra’s lecture demonstrated her energy, enthusiasm and knowledge. I look forward to the next Indigenous Professoriate Lecture with more details and information regarding this upcoming event to be shared soon,” said Professor Trudgett.

Associate Professor Sandra Phillips.

Associate Professor Corrinne Sullivan receives the Institute of Australian Geographers

‘William Jonas Award’

Western is thrilled to announce that earlier this year at the Institute of Australian Geographers Conference, co-hosted by Curtin University, and the University of Western Australia, Associate Professor Corrinne Sullivan was announced as the recipient of the Institute of Australian Geographers ‘William Jonas Award’. This award recognises her contributions to Indigenous geographies and the broader discipline.

Associate Professor Sullivan’s research has made significant and timely contributions to government policy, institutional practice, and communitybased services and resources, to improve the economic, social and cultural wellbeing of Indigenous people through centring and amplifying their voices to promote positive change.

The award is highly prestigious and is named in honour of Worimi scholar, Dr William Jonas, who was the first Aboriginal Australian to receive a PhD in 1980. He was a dedicated geographer and passionate advocate for Aboriginal heritage, Indigenous education, social justice, and human rights. He was appointed Australia’s second Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner from 1999-2004. His achievements and deep impact have paved the way for many to walk their own journeys in education.

Associate Professor Corrinne Sullivan felt honoured to receive the award.

“It is a deep privilege to receive an award that is named after such an accomplished Indigenous person. I feel very honoured to be recognised for the work that I do in a discipline that Dr Jonas paved the way into,” said Associate Professor Sullivan.

Western researchers are awarded runner-ups for Article of the Year

Western Sydney University would like to congratulate Dr Rhonda Povey, Professor Michelle Trudgett, Professor Susan Page and Dr Stacey Kim Coates whose paper was recently awarded runner-up for Article of the Year from a shortlisted pool of 20 articles published in the Higher Education Research and Development journal in 2022. The paper, ‘On the front foot: Indigenous leadership in Aotearoa/ New Zealand higher education’, was selected for its academic rigour and is a must read for all.

The Executive of the Higher Education Research and Development Society of Australasia and the Higher Education Research and Development journal’s editorial team noted that the paper was judged to provide significant critical and/or analytical insights to the field of higher education, and was characterised by a thorough literature review, sound methodology, persuasive, succinct, and coherent arguments, and was moreover, highly engaging.

Once again, Western would like to congratulate Dr Povey, Professor Michelle Trudgett, Professor Susan Page and Dr Stacey Kim Coates on being shortlisted for this prestigious award.

Associate Professor Corrinne Sullivan.