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 organisation 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
Indigenous leadership and excellence celebrated at Western’s inaugural NAIDOC Awards
Western Sydney University is proud to announce the winners of the inaugural NAIDOC Awards 2024, celebrating the outstanding contributions and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within the University community. The NAIDOC Awards, established to recognise excellence, were celebrated across several distinguished categories highlighting remarkable achievements in leadership, impact, research, and academia.
The winners were unveiled at a special gala dinner hosted by the Division of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership, on Friday the 12 th of July.
Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President, Indigenous Leadership, warmly congratulated the exceptional nominees and winners.
“Western Sydney University is proud to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who are contributing so much to our community through excellence in leadership, impact, research, and academia,” said Professor Trudgett.
In attendance of the gala was Chancellor, Professor Jennifer Westacott AO, who also offered her congratulations.
Artwork by Chris Edward (2010) Swimmy Creek [Mixed media on Latvian linen 100cm x 145cm Western Sydney University Art Collection Image in Western Red].
Colleagues from the Division of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership, with Professor Michelle Trudgett and Professor Susan Page. Photography: Sally Tsoutas.
“The NAIDOC Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the significant contributions of Indigenous staff and students to the University and to acknowledge the next generation of Indigenous leaders,” said Professor Westacott.
Western Sydney University would like to congratulate the following winners:
≥ 2024 Indigenous Student Stage One Academic Excellence Award: Tjanara Ridgeway
≥ 2024 Indigenous Student Stage Two Academic Excellence Award: GemmaRose O’Brien
≥ 2024 Indigenous Student Stage Three Academic Excellence Award: Mia Bates
≥ 2024 Indigenous Student Stage Four Academic Excellence Award: Lillian Newton
≥ 2024 Indigenous Student Post Graduate Course Work Excellence Award: Aimee Woods
≥ 2024 Indigenous Higher Degree Research Award: Doctor Paul Saunders
≥ 2024 Indigenous Higher Degree Research Award: Matilda Harry
≥ 2024 Outstanding Indigenous Student Award: Jess Oehm
≥ 2024 Outstanding Indigenous Student Award: Audree Campbell
≥ 2024 Indigenous Trainee of the Year: Jordan Janson
MESSAGE FROM THE DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR, INDIGENOUS LEADERSHIP
Welcome to the Spring 2024 edition of The Yarning Circle
Work continues to progress on our amazing Indigenous Centre of Excellence. We have now moved from the Schematic Design phase to the Detailed Design phase of the development. Additionally, a significant milestone was reached in July, with the lodgement of the State Significant Development Application.
In June, I travelled to Wollongong to spend a couple of days on the sidelines cheering on our incredible students who skilfully represented Western at the 2024 Indigenous National Games. I could not be any prouder of how the team cared for one another and represented our University.
In the first week of July, my Division hosted Western’s 2024 Indigenous Staff Conference. This year’s theme
≥ 2024 Indigenous Professional Staff Excellence Award: Amelia Corr
≥ 2024 Indigenous Academic Excellence Award: Ali Gebhardt
≥ 2024 Indigenous Leadership Team Award - School of Social Science Team consisting of: Professor Corrinne Sullivan, Ellen Karimanovic, Doctor Georgia Durmush, Kaiya Aboagye, Lindsay McCabe and Karen Fernando
≥ 2024 Contributions of Indigenous Excellence to Western Sydney University Doctor Danièle Hromek
≥ 2024 Indigenous Person of the Year Award: Professor Corrinne Sullivan
The awards were part of Western Sydney University’s celebrations for national NAIDOC Week, 7-14 July. This year’s
was Strength in Unity: Building an Empowered and Enriched Community. In attendance was approximately 40 Indigenous staff, both academic and professional, from various areas across the University.
This year’s NAIDOC Week was more action packed than ever before, with events hosted on different campuses each day. The Yarramundi Lecture was an absolute highlight with Dr Danièle Hromek and Sarah Lynn Rees delivering powerful keynotes. Paramedicine student Andrew Webster also delivered an incredible student response.
The other big highlight was our inaugural NAIDOC Awards and Gala Dinner event. This was a huge success as we proudly celebrated Indigenous excellence across our University family. I am so proud of the impressive achievements of our staff and students who were acknowledged at the dinner.
Given the success of this event we will ensure it is a regular feature in our NAIDOC Week calendar in the future. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my amazing team who worked so hard to ensure that the weeks activities ran smoothly.
theme, ‘Blak, Loud and Proud’, celebrates the unyielding spirit of Indigenous communities and invites all to stand in solidarity, amplifying the voices that have long been silenced.
Western Sydney University is deeply committed to building the next generation of Indigenous leaders and celebrating their achievements. This event is a testament to the University’s investment in honouring the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The Division of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership is already planning for the 2025 NAIDOC Gala dinner to continue to provide opportunities to highlight Indigenous voices, traditions, and successes.
In other exciting news, Professor George Williams AO commenced at Western on the 22nd of July as our new Vice-Chancellor and President. George has an impressive record in the Indigenous space, having worked on the famous Mabo case and has written books about treaty. I know that he is deeply committed to working with our Indigenous community at Western and look forward to working with him.
Professor Michelle Trudgett (BA, MPS, EdD)
Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President Indigenous Leadership
Professor Michelle Trudgett. Photography: Sally Tsoutas.
Recipients of the 2024 Indigenous Leadership Team Award with Professor Susan Page. Photography: Sally Tsoutas.
BOLD conversations
Mirriyta Ebsworth, PhD Candidate
The Bold Conservation segment encourages Indigenous staff and students to share their ideas to promote discussions in a culturally safe environment. They reflect the authors personal views and not that of the University.
Mirritya Ebsworth is a proud Paakantyi/ Wangkumara woman, born in Bourke and currently living on Dharawal Country. She began her PhD at Western Sydney University in January 2024, after careers in Microbiology, Statistics and Education. In 2022, Mirritya received the Charles Perkins Memorial Award for Academic Excellence recognising her work in revitalising the Paakantyi language. Her research at the Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment will investigate the environmental and cultural importance of culturally significant species and the impact of various land uses on Wangkumara Country.
In the following segment, Mirriyta reflects on her personal journey in strengthening her connections to language, culture and Country. She also introduces her thesis focus wherein she is studying minnarityi (the red mulga).
For First Nations people language, culture, Country and connections are intertwined and inseparable. These elements define how we view the world and are often described as our ways of knowing, being and doing. Typically, our families shape these epistemologies through storytelling, experience, and observation.
I am particularly curious about how language, culture, Country and connections influence us because I did not grow up with my Aboriginal family and was never told about them. I was removed as a three-year-old and raised in a non-Indigenous (and highly dysfunctional) household. My name had been changed and I did not find my family until I was in my late thirty’s. Yet the way I saw my world growing up was distinctly different from those who raised me. I was largely left to my own devices and was often described as a ‘wild child’ (usually in a tone of despair or irritation) in that I was
always outside, climbing trees or wiggling my toes in grass or dirt, watching lines of ants, gazing at the clouds, talking to birds, and saving injured animals. From the time I was eighteen, I spent all my energy trying to escape suburban Sydney to ‘get out to the country’ – the impulse was strong, but the reason was blurry.
Life happened, and I found myself living in Balmain – about as close to the city as you can get – but it was a soulless existence. The desire to move to the country was so strong, I did an Agricultural Science degree (not much call for agronomists or cattle inseminators in Sydney’s inner-west).
Then I stumbled upon some documents that led me to my father’s family and instantly all the pieces fell into place. I will never forget my first trip back to Bourke, watching the eagles circle overhead, leading me… home. Nor will I forget the powerful and visceral response I had when I first woke up to the smell of gidgee (you either love it or hate it, but I swear I have gidgee in my blood!).
Those first days, weeks and months of rediscovering my family were, of course, emotional. Sadly, my father died when I was four, during his attempt to find me. My family knew about me, but I did not know about them. So, I spent my time learning. I was learning who was who, learning my family’s history, learning the stories, and going to culture camps. I was learning who I was and where I came from.
When Covid hit, I did what many people did – I took up a course. But this course was in Indigenous Languages, and I set about learning my grandmother’s language – Paakantyi (also written as Barkindji). This set me on the path to language revitalisation. Learning Paakantyi had a profound effect on my family and I; I felt very connected to
my grandmother even though she had died before I was born. I also watched my then eleven-year-old son grow in confidence as he learned Paakantyi with me. It helped him stand proud as a young Paakantyi boy, and he now has what I did not, at his age – a strong identity and sense of belonging. Now that I have some language, I find many of my mob also want to learn it and so I can help them with the resources I have developed. They connect, we connect.
Now, along my journey of discovery, I find that my Ancestors have led me to this logical mid-point. My PhD project does exactly what we have always done, it combines language, culture, Country and connections. I am studying minnarityi – red mulga – a beautiful tree that only grows in semi-arid/arid zones in Central Australia, in one small spot in Western Australia.
My field work means I have the privilege of being out on Country several times a year. Wangkumara people were forcibly removed from Tibooburra in 1938, and none of us have lived on Country since. In July this year, however, we converged en masse in Tibooburra for our Native Title handover – the first meeting on Country in nearly a century. One mob, reconnecting with each other, reconnecting with our ancestral land. The Old People told us stories, took us to significant sites, used language, told more stories. The young people played together, laughed together, looked after each other. We cooked together, sat around the fire together, we watched the sunrise together. Just like we always have… connected, on Country, practicing culture, using language. Or…
Wangkumara kawalanyi ngadidji, Wankgumara purnulanga, Wangkumara kulagarla, Wangkumada yandhagarla.
Mirriyta Ebsworth.
Western Kept the Fire Burning during NAIDOC Week events, including the Yarramundi Lecture
Western Sydney University celebrated the history, culture and achievements of Indigenous communities across campuses during NAIDOC Week. The Division of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership and Badanami team hosted a range of events where staff, students and community members joined in celebrating this year’s theme, Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud, honouring the enduring strength and vitality of Indigenous cultures.
On Monday the 8 th of July, everyone was invited to a Dadirri session hosted by Badanami on Campbelltown Campus to experience cultural practices of mindfulness informed by Aunty MariamRose Ungunmerr’s approaches. During the session, knowledge was shared about Dadirri and how it can support a cultural framework of mindfulness. All who engaged shared space by sitting quietly and listening. Those involved expressed how the session strengthened connections between their mind, body, spirit and the environment which in turn allowed participants to calm their energy and feel a sense of quietness within.
On Tuesday the 9 th of July, Badanami Hawkesbury hosted a Family Fun Day where students, staff, community and their families joined in games, activities and shared lunch in Stable Square. There were inflatable games, sack races, pool and ping-pong competitions, and painting stations where every child painted and took home Indigenous tools.
On Wednesday the 12 th of July, the Division of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership had the honour of hosting the University’s 26th Yarramundi Lecture on Parramatta South Campus. The Yarramundi Lecture was established in 1997 by Aunty Pearl Wymarra, who was an Elder on Campus,
out of respect and recognition for the Darug people. The Yarramundi lecture has developed over time and is a much anticipated annual event, providing a platform for the discussion of issues of local and national importance. Dr Michelle Locke commenced the Lecture by honouring the audience with a moving Welcome to Country and coemceed the event alongside Professor Gawaian Bodkin-Andrews, Western’s Director of Indigenous Research. Professor Clare Pollock, Western Sydney University’s previous interim Vice-Chancellor, provided an insightful address acknowledging the University’s responsibility in continuing to strengthen reciprocal relationships which serve Indigenous communities in a genuine manner. Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership, provided an address.
The Division would like to give a special thanks to the two esteemed guest speakers, Sarah Lynn Rees and Dr. Danièle Hromek who reflected on designing spaces for Country, community, culture and kin to be Blak, Loud and Proud.
Sarah Lynn Rees is a proud Palawa woman who is the lead architect for the Indigenous Centre of Excellence. Throughout the Lecture she shared her extensive knowledge in Indigenous built environments discussing her intentions for the Indigenous Centre of Excellence and how Country and community have authorship in its design.
Dr. Danièle Hromek is a proud Saltwater woman who provided guidance as the Cultural Lead on the Indigenous Centre of Excellence project. She further yarned about her understandings of CountryCentred design and the need to create spacial equity.
Andrew Webster, a Wiradjuri Paramedicine student, then reflected on his learnings in the student response. He also reflected on what the NAIDOC theme of ‘Keeping The Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud’ means to him.
The event was a great celebration of Western’s commitment to the 2024 NAIDOC theme and how it is emulated through the design of the Indigenous Centre of Excellence.
On Thursday the 11th of July, a Cultural Workshop was hosted at Kingswood Campus by Badanami where all were invited to embrace creativity by engaging in basket weaving and art at the First People’s Walk. The First People’s Walk was designed to share a space which is a visual and audible acknowledgement of Indigenous Australians, past and present. Those who engaged broadened their cultural knowledge through storytelling and sand artefacts presented by Ian Shearer and shared a BBQ lunch with bush tucker desserts.
On Friday the 12 th of July, the Division of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership hosted Western’s inaugural NAIDOC Awards to celebrate the outstanding contributions and achievements of Indigenous peoples within the University community (see page 1).
By hosting and engaging in these events, the University acknowledged Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People’s culture, history, and contributions to society, fostering mutual understanding and respect. NAIDOC Week 2024 was a fantastic opportunity to learn and celebrate Indigenous excellence and leadership and reflect on Australia’s shared past and future, promoting unity and reconciliation among all Australians.
Yarramundi Lecture speakers, including Professor Michelle Trudgett, Dr Danièle Hromek, Andrew Webster, Sarah Lynn Rees, Dr Michelle Locke and Professor Gawaian Bodkin-Andrews (left to right). Photography: Sally Tsoutas.
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 plus 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: www.westernsydney.edu.au/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander/events
Western Sydney University introduces the Indigenous Research Strategy 2024 –2028:
Sharing Knowledges in Good Spirit
It is with great excitement that the Division of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership shares Western Sydney University’s Indigenous Research Strategy 2024 – 2028: Sharing Knowledges in Good Spirit. This strategy outlines the vision, principles, and key-focus areas of Western Sydney University in investing and building capacity for, the very spirit with which Indigenous research is conducted over the years to come. The strategy provides a series of strategic initiatives within the University to enable pathways towards a stronger and worldclass Indigenous Studies Research environment.
The Indigenous Research Strategy is available for viewing at the following link: www.westernsydney.edu.au/ content/dam/digital/images/atsi/ Indigenous-Research-StrategyWSU.pdf.
Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President Indigenous Leadership, thanks Professor Gawaian Bodkin-Andrews for his extensive efforts in developing this comprehensive and thoughtful document.
“Professor Bodkin-Andrews’ dedication and expertise have been invaluable in shaping the priorities and approach the University will take when conducting Indigenous research. I also want to express my thanks to the Indigenous Professoriate, Indigenous Research Network colleagues and the Western Sydney University Elders Advisory Committee for their contributions and guidance throughout the development of this strategy. I ask all Western colleagues to read the entirety of this document and consider how you can contribute to advancing its goals in your respective roles. We have an exciting opportunity to further strengthen Western Sydney University’s position as leading in the sector for impactful and culturally informed Indigenous research that will benefit generations to come. It is particularly timely in terms of our commitment to the Indigenous Centre of Excellence,” said Professor Trudgett.
The Division of Deputy ViceChancellor Indigenous Leadership looks forward to working with all Schools and Institutes across the University to bring this vision to life.
Uncle Greg Simms OAM received the Order of Australia Medal in the 2024 King’s
Birthday Honours ceremony
The Division of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership extends its warmest congratulations to Uncle Greg Simms OAM on receiving the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours ceremony. This recognition is a testament to Uncle Greg’s unwavering dedication to the Indigenous community of Western Sydney. We are particularly grateful for his ongoing leadership and service at the University, where he remains a valued member of the Indigenous Elders Advisory Committee. His contributions as a community leader, activist for reconciliation, traditional woodcarver, storyteller and Aboriginal cultural educator are invaluable, and we again thank him for his commitment to enriching our region.
Professor Michelle Trudgett congratulates Uncle Greg on behalf of the University.
“I extend my congratulations to Uncle Greg on being awarded the Order of Australia Medal. Your unwavering dedication to Indigenous communities is an inspiration to us all. Your legacy of leadership and service will continue to shape and enrich our Western Sydney’s communities for generations to come,” said Professor Trudgett.
To learn more about the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours List and the many other incredible Australians who were recognised for their conspicuous service, please follow: www.gg.gov.au/ kings-birthday-2024-honours-list
Uncle Greg OAM. Photography: Western Sydney Community Forum.
Western’s Future Student Engagement Team hosted an inaugural Inspire Camp with NRL School To Work
In early July Western Sydney University’s Future Student Engagement Team hosted an inaugural Inspire Camp with NRL School To Work. Held over three days at Western’s Hawkesbury Campus, the camp aimed to help participants explore future pathways to higher education and simultaneously furthering connection to culture.
Co-delivered by Western’s Indigenous Future Student Engagement staff and NRL School to Work, the camp gave students a glimpse into University life, allowing them to engage in a variety of workshops and activities. From interactive sessions with faculty members to a range of cultural sessions, participants truly immersed themselves in the academic environment of University.
Joel Thompson, from the NRL State of Mind Program, also spoke with the students about stress management, offering students advice focused on developing powerful skills and techniques for managing stress in the future.
Highlighting the significance of cultural connection, the Inspire Camp provided students with opportunities to learn more about their culture through yarning circles and cultural workshops. Over the three days, students learned and practiced the art of traditional dance, concluding the camp with a performance at the concluding presentation.
The camp emphasised the sense of belonging within the School To Work Program as participants were able to further their cultural connection and identity whilst also exploring future pathways into University.
Amelia Corr, Future Student Engagement Senior Project Support Officer, would like to thank the team at NRL School To Work for their outstanding support with this camp.
“The inaugural Inspire camp was a fantastic opportunity for Western to solidify our strong relationship with NRL School To Work, an organisation that is doing great things in local Indigenous communities. It was a privilege over the three days getting to know students and inspiring them to consider Western for their futures,” said Amelia Corr.
Sophie Partridge, Director of Future Student Engagement, said she is pleased the Future Student Engagement team had the opportunity to partner with NRL School To Work and host this camp.
“The students embraced all of the opportunities the camp provided with such enthusiasm. Hearing them speak at the lunch about how the camp had strengthened their connection to culture, each other, and their future pathways was inspiring. I hope to see them as students at Western in future.
A huge congratulations to Amelia for all her work and dedication engaging with Indigenous future students and communities,” said Sophie Partridge.
To find out more about the NRL School To Work program, please follow: www. nrl.com/community/school-to-work/
NRL School to Work Camp students.
Prospective student in Western’s nursing labs.
Western Sydney University Indigenous students, alumni and Elders were celebrated as finalists at the 2024 National NAIDOC Week Awards
Indigenous excellence and community leadership were honoured at the 2024 National NAIDOC Week Awards in Tarndanya (Adelaide) on Kaurna Yerta Country on the 6th of July. The awards recognised the outstanding contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make to improve the lives of people in their communities and beyond, with 28 finalists for 10 award categories.
Western Sydney University would like to congratulate all the National NAIDOC winners and finalists. We would like to give a special mention to:
≥ Aunty Fran Bodkin, D’harawal Elder and Western Sydney University Indigenous Elders Advisory Committee member, who was a finalist in the Caring for Country Category. Aunt is a trailblazer in Indigenous science, botany, innovation and education. She has dedicated her life to studying the natural environment and sharing D’harawal culture and knowledge through her publications and work in education. Aunt’s recognition as a National finalist in this NAIDOC category is very well deserved.
≥ Dr Stacey Kim Coates, Western Sydney University Alumni and Wiradjuri academic, executive leader, and education specialist, was a finalist in the Education Category. Dr Coates has earned three degrees at Western and recently completed her PhD, focusing on senior Indigenous leadership in higher education. She is deeply passionate about driving positive educational and employment outcomes for mob and has consistently been a powerful force for positive change, impacting Australian society at large. Dr Coates’ generous contributions to Indigenous education
prove her to be a very worthy finalist in this award category.
≥ Piper Stewart, a proud Gulidjan woman and paramedicine student at Western Sydney University, was a finalist in the National NAIDOC Youth Category. She is a young change-maker who has made a significant impact in improving water safety for Indigenous young people. Piper started an organisation called Bambigi at the age of 12 to raise money for Indigenous kids’ swimming lessons and since then, the now 18-year-old has raised about $40,000 through her charity Bambigi to pay for hundreds of Indigenous kids in the region to have swimming lessons. She is passionate about closing the gap in Indigenous drownings and her efforts have been recognised as she was named the 2023 Royal Lifesaving Australia’s Young Innovator of the Year. Piper’s passions for giving back to community and supporting the development of fellow Indigenous young people proved her to be a very worthy finalist in the National NAIDOC Youth Category.
Whilst Aunty Fran could not attend the ceremony, she did say that “I only ever wanted to teach of Country. I just want all peoples to come to value, respect, and hopefully protect Country more so.” She was immensely honoured by the nomination, and also very proud of all who were nominated.
Dr Coates attended the NAIDOC Week Awards ceremony in Adelaide and said she was honoured to be recognised on the national stage.
“It tells me I am making a positive difference to the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, which is
ultimately my purpose in life. The work I do is for my people, and I will continue to advocate for Mob in the education realm until I take my last breath, whether I am recognised for the work I do or not. In my opinion, education is the single most important key to prosperity and a better future. However, education gets life only when it inspires people to take action, initiate a change, or transform something with what they have learned. It is about changing the lives of Indigenous peoples for the better. My fire is burning, and through advocacy driving Indigenous education sovereignty, it will turn a spark into blazing flames that no one will be able to extinguish,” said Dr Coates.
Piper Stewart said it was an honour to be a finalist in the 2024 National NAIDOC Awards.
“I feel really lucky to have been recognised as a NAIDOC Youth Finalist and to represent my community and Bambigi nationally. Giving back to community through Bambigi has been incredibly rewarding and we’ve made such a huge impact. In the past 10 years there has been a 47% decline in Indigenous people drowning however we still have so much more to do in this space as unfortunately we are 1.7 times more likely to drown than nonIndigenous people,” said Piper Stewart.
The National NAIDOC Awards pay tribute to Indigenous people’s achievements whilst acknowledging that their work enriches Indigenous communities, Indigenous people and this nation. To find out more about this year’s NAIDOC winners and finalists, please follow: www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-06/ national-naidoc-week-awards-list-ofwinners/104067604
Aunty Fran Bodkin. Photography: ABC Radio. Dr Stacey Coates.
Piper Stewart. Photography: ABC Net.
Students
WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY’S INDIGENOUS STUDENTS ACHIEVE GREAT THINGS
Seven deadly questions: Introducing Tiana Thompson, Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) student
Who are you?
My name is Tiana Thompson. I proudly come from two strong Indigenous cultures, with my mother being Aboriginal and my father being Māori. I am the oldest sibling with my two little sisters and the eldest of my 30+ cousins from both sides of my family. I am currently in my third year of a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) degree.
Who is your mob?
I am a proud Wiradjuri woman living on Bidjigal land. My mob is from Warren, NSW.
What community or cultural events have you been involved in lately or will you engage in this year?
Last year, I attended the Indigenous Nationals at Monash University in Melbourne. I had the best time meeting new people from Western and mob from all over Australia. I loved it so much that I tried out again this year! Alongside my good friends, Luke Davies, Andrew Webster and Jasmine Kernaghan, I captained Western’s Indigenous Nationals team at the University of Wollongong.
In November 2023, I was lucky enough to be a part of a Cultural Immersion Program and travelled to Taiwan. I had the best two weeks of my life learning about Taiwanese culture, connecting with students from National Dong Hwa University, and witnessing some of the most breath-taking scenes in the world.
I also attended Western’s NAIDOC Gala Dinner in July of this year, which was a splendid night catching up with friends and staff.
Why did you choose to study at Western Sydney University?
When I finished high school in 2019, I worked a variety of jobs to try and find my passion. Though, in the back of my head I always knew I wanted to be a psychologist. In 2022, my partner encouraged me to look into studying and shared his positive experience studying at Western. After seeing Western’s accomplishments, the Badanami program, and the numerous campuses, I decided to apply here. I have no regrets choosing Western. I could not imagine studying anywhere else!
Have you faced any challenges as an Indigenous student? If so, how did you overcome them?
Starting University in 2022 was very nerve-wracking for me. Being the first person to attend University in my family, I had a lot of self-doubt and pressure on my shoulders. Fortunately, I had so much support from my Mother and partner which helped me gain more confidence.
During the first two years of University, it was quite hard to make friends during class. Understandably, everyone is focused and my degree can be quite competitive. However, getting more involved with Badanami and taking every opportunity I am offered has led me to meeting so many new people and gaining beautiful friendships.
When you graduate from Western Sydney University what do you hope to achieve?
I hope to graduate from Western as a clinical psychologist. My dream is to work in hospitals and correctional facilities to help individuals with mental health conditions and make a difference in their lives.
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. Visit the Badanami centre. I am blessed to have Adrian Atkins as my Student Success Officer at Bankstown campus. He is always down for a yarn and has supported me through my academic and personal life. After visiting the Badanami centre at other campuses, each Student Success Officer is exactly the same. Our support system at Western is unmatched.
2. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes to you. Getting out of your comfort zone opens you up to so many new and exciting experiences. Put yourself out there and do not be afraid to stand out.
3. Start preparing for the semester ASAP! I highly suggest familiarising yourself with vUWS, learning guides, marking criteria, and the discussion board. Subject coordinators often put so much information onto vUWS and it is so helpful when doing assignments or preparing for exams.
4. Make your physical and mental health a priority! It is easy to get caught up in a cycle of work and study during the semester, but it is super important to take time to look after yourself. You want to make sure you are 100% so you can achieve great things during your studies.
5. Take breaks in nature! When I am feeling overwhelmed or just need a break from studying, I love to go for a walk in nature. Feeling the sun on my face, breathing in fresh air, and listening to the birds sing instantly makes me feel better.
Tiana Thompson.
Western’s Indigenous Nationals team had an unbeatable energy at the 2024 UniSports Nationals Competition
From the 23rd to the 27th of June, Western Sydney University’s Indigenous Nationals team competed at the 28th Indigenous Nationals at the University of Wollongong. The annual week-long multi-sport event bought together student-athletes from universities across Australia to compete across four sports: touch football, basketball, netball, and volleyball. As usual, the 2024 Indigenous Nationals were an amazing environment for the team to not only celebrate the rich sporting culture of Indigenous Australian’s but to also acknowledge the heritage and history of the participating student-athletes.
On Monday the 24th of June the team competed in Basketball winning one game against Griffith University with a score of 20-12. On Tuesday the team played netball wining against three teams including James Cook University, University of Wollongong and Sunshine Coast University. On Wednesday the team had an amazing time playing volleyball against Adelaide University, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and Newcastle University. Finally on Thursday the 27th of June, they competed in touch football were victorious with a high score of 12-1 against Federation University.
This year Western’s Indigenous Nationals team nominated a leadership team to support the organisation and management of the team. The Leadership team consisted of Luke Davis, Tiana Thompson, Jasmine Kernaghan and Andrew Webster.
“This year at Indigenous Nationals we truly began building something special. The connections that we have built are lasting and we cannot wait to see what is to follow in the years to come. We are honoured to have been team leaders and part of such an incredible group of people and are so proud of everything that our team achieved. The bond within the team was on full display the entire week, proven by the fact many of us had
lost our voices from all the cheering,” said the 2024 Indigenous Nationals Leadership Team.
Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice Chancellor Indigenous Leadership, travelled to Wollongong to support and cheer on the team.
“Western’s Indigenous Nationals team had an unbeatable energy and absolutely smashed it! It was fantastic to see their teamwork and athletic abilities from the sidelines.
Western Sydney University would like to thank Wollongong University for kindly hosting this amazing event,” said Professor Trudgett.
To find out more about the 2024 UniSport Indigenous Nationals, please follow: www.unisport.com.au/ indigenous-nationals
Western’s Indigenous Nationals team and Luke Warren, Fiona Towney, Professor Michelle Trudgett, Josh Mason, and Dr Sarah Kennedy. Photography: UniSport Nationals.
Western’s Indigenous Nationals team. Photography: UniSport Nationals.
WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY’S PASSIONATE INDIGENOUS STAFF
Seven deadly questions: Introducing Ellen Karimanovic, Indigenous Education Officer in the School of Social Sciences
Who are you?
My name is Ellen Karimanovic. I am the Indigenous Education Officer in the School of Social Sciences.
Who is your mob?
I am a Worimi woman with my connection to the Port Stephens region (just north of Newcastle) through my Mum’s side and through my Dad’s side, I’m German and Yugoslav. However, I was born and continue to live on the lands of the Darug people, where most of my work is delivered too.
What community/cultural events have you been involved in lately?
The most recent community events that I have attended were for NAIDOC week. I attended two University events, the annual Yarramundi Lecture and a cultural event held at the First People’s Walk at the Kingswood campus. I also prioritised taking cultural leave, to attend a local community event – held by Penrith City Council at Jamison Park every year. I have many fond memories of attending this event over the years since being a kid, until now.
What is your current position at Western Sydney University and how long have you worked at the University?
I am the Indigenous Education Officer in the School of Social Sciences. This role allows me to work closely with students studying Social Science based programs to achieve success. Not only do I have the student facing aspect of support, but I have the privilege to work alongside my academic colleagues in providing support to Indigenous students and identifying opportunities relevant to the students.
Within this role, I also work alongside the School’s Indigenous Strategy 20202025, by working in conjunction with the
Associate Dean (Indigenous Education) Professor Corrinne Sullivan. The strategy work is vital to establish the School of Social Sciences as a leader in Indigenous Education, through prioritising students, teaching and learning, research, employment and engagement.
Have you always aspired to work in tertiary education?
Being an alumni of the University, I always saw the hard work of Indigenous staff that made a huge difference to the success and achievements of Mob studying at this University. It sparked an interest during my studies to continue in this space, and from casual employment, to completing an internship - I then moved into fulltime positions here at Western.
What is your favourite thing about working at Western Sydney University?
The diversity. The knowledge, learnings, and yarns you have with students, your own team, from other departments, community and external stakeholders, you really get to grow through sharing experiences with everyone you have the opportunity to connect with.
Do you have any advice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people wanting to work at Western Sydney University?
The University has many opportunities for Mob, from casual possibilities for students, to traineeships and ongoing employment prospects for professional staff. If you see something that interests you, go for it!
Staff Updates
Western Sydney University would like to congratulate the following Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander staff members on their new appointments:
≥ Brayden Popovich was appointed as a Business Administration Trainee
≥ Heidi Duncan was appointed as a Cultural Wellbeing Officer
≥ Tyson Binge was appointed as a Future Student Engagement Project Support Officer, Indigenous Engagement
≥ Kirsten Atkinson was appointed as a Project Coordinator, Gumbaynggirr Daari
≥ Dr Georgia Durmush was appointed as a Senior Lecturer in Social Sciences
≥ Skye Lampton was appointed as a Business Administration Trainee
≥ Lauren Castino was appointed as an Outreach and Indigenous Engagement Librarian
Western Sydney University would also like to thank all of the Indigenous staff who continuously demonstrate excellence and the Universities values. We would like to give a special mention and congratulate Gabrielle TalbotMundine on recently being recognised for her 10 years of service at Western. Throughout Gabrielle’s time at Western, she has held multiple positions. Currently she is the Senior Indigenous Employment Coordinator in the Division of Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership. Gabrielle’s contributions to Western are recognised University-wide as she has extensive knowledge of University systems and processes. Her involvement in the Western Sydney University community has enabled Gabrielle to create strong and fruitful connections with the institution’s key stakeholders. We would once again like to thank Gabrielle for her service.
Ellen Karimanovic.
Celebrating Strength in Unity at Western’s 2024 Indigenous Staff Conference
On the 2nd of July, Western Sydney University’s Indigenous professional and academic staff came together at Bankstown Campus for the annual Indigenous Staff Conference. The 2024 theme was ‘Strength in Unity: Building an Empowered and Enriched Community’. This theme emulates Western’s commitment to celebrating the invaluable contributions of Indigenous employees and providing opportunities to build connections and develop professionally.
The event commenced with a moving Acknowledgement to Country delivered by Jarred Murphy, grounding us in the spirit of the land we stand on.
This was followed by an informative opening address by Professor Clare Pollock who was the Interim ViceChancellor and President at the time, who provided great strategic insight into higher education in the sector. Professor Michelle Trudgett then spoke about our achievements under the 2020-2025 Indigenous Strategy and the priorities ahead.
In addition to this we heard from a range of different stakeholders including Dr Sarah Kennedy and Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine summarising the Indigenous SAGE Report Results, Thomas Klobucar and Sarah Lyn Rees provided an Indigenous Centre of Excellence update, Professor Susan Page expanded on The Australian Universities Accord, then Josh Mason and Matt Taylor outlined the Deadly Chat for students, with our event sponsors, UniSuper, finishing off the session with an educational presentation on superannuation.
After lunch, the Indigenous staff network undertook a team-building activity where the staff were put to the test, expressed creative flare and showed their competitive side. The staff engaged in brain teasers and a heartwarming activity, where they built bicycles which have been donated to Deadly Connections. Deadly Connections is a culturally informed, trauma aware, community and peer designed organisation that places culture and healing at the centre of all they do. The initiative of building the bicycles provided our staff the opportunity to work together with members from other teams, and to give back to the Indigenous community.
Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy ViceChancellor and Vice-President Indigenous Leadership, thanked all who participated and contributed to making the Indigenous Staff Conference a day to remember.
“It was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate how much we have achieved at Western, whilst acknowledging all 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 our Senior Indigenous Employment Coordinator, Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine, for her outstanding organisational skills and dedication in making this event a huge success,” said Professor Trudgett.
Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine, Senior Indigenous Employment Coordinator, said the 2024 Indigenous Staff Conference was a powerful reminder that our collective strength lies in our unity, and through collaboration and mutual empowerment, we can build a vibrant, resilient community.
“The Indigenous Staff Conference is designed to enrich our staff, providing them with opportunities to network, build knowledge and enhance skills. The insights and connections made during the conference will undoubtedly inspire and guide us going forward with our goals to continue creating an inclusive and empowered future for the Indigenous community at Western,” said Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine.
To find out more about Western’s Indigenous employment opportunities, please follow: www.westernsydney.edu. au/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander/ employment
Western’s Indigenous Staff Network.
The winning team in the Deadly Connections Bicycle Building Activity.
Alumni
WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY’S INDIGENOUS ALUMNI
Seven deadly questions alumni: Introducing Kayla McCorriston
Who are you?
My name is Kayla McCorriston. I am a Wiradjuri and Tongan woman who grew up with my family on Darug land. I graduated from Western Sydney University in 2020 and am currently working as a podiatrist in Penrith.
What community and cultural events have you been involved in lately?
This year I have been involved in mobile podiatry visits to different Aboriginal groups local to Penrith and the Blue Mountains to provide foot care education. I have recently celebrated NAIDOC week and was involved in several events.
What is your current position and why are you passionate about it?
I am currently a Senior Podiatrist with NSW Health working in a High-Risk Foot Service. I love seeing the progression of peoples health while they are in our care and being able to discharge them back into community. I love working in a hospital setting and being able to work with people from several different disciplines and be able to get their input on patient care.
What degree did you study at Western Sydney University?
I graduated with a Bachelor of Podiatric Medicine.
What has your experience at Western Sydney University given you that is unique compared to graduates from other universities?
Western Sydney University provides incredible support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. I found the staff who taught in my degree were incredibly supportive of me as the only Aboriginal podiatry student and found that any opportunities that were available for Aboriginal students were offered to me. I went to Stellenbosch University as part of my degree and completed 3 elective units which was an incredible opportunity for me.
Who is your role model and why do they inspire you?
I am incredibly inspired by the work of people such as Fred Hollows and Catherine Hamlin who were able to dedicate their lives to improving the health and wellbeing of others. I aspire to be able to have the same level of care for patients for as long as they did.
What would be your top 5 tips towards success for Indigenous graduates from Western Sydney University?
1. I think students could easily get overwhelmed by the amount of work a University degree seems to be. Take each semester as it comes and do not look ahead to what you will be doing a year from now.
2. At the beginning of each semester break it down into assessments and exams and know what needs to be done in what order so you are not left scrambling.
3. Take advantage of extracurricular activities and any organised trips you’re able to go on.
4. Get involved in your degree’s association or group and get to know people from different cohorts as you may end up working together down the line, or in my case referring to each other.
5. Enjoy it! Full time work is way less fun than University years.
Congratulations to Western’s June graduates
Western Sydney University is committed to empowering and supporting Indigenous students’ to study and graduate from degrees of their choice. Currently, Western Sydney University has over 1,690 Indigenous alumni who have graduated from a variety of degrees across the University’s range of Schools.
Graduation is an incredibly important milestone as it celebrates the hard work and time put into achieving a degree, marking the formal end of tertiary study and the beginning of a new journey.
In June 2024, 83 deadly students graduated including two Doctor of Philosophy Degrees, eleven Master degrees, sixty-three Bachelor degrees, one Diploma, two Graduate Diplomas, one Graduate Certificate, one Undergraduate Certificate and two Associate degrees. Congratulations to the following students, we are so proud of each of you and wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours:
Jacob Alexander graduated with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
Cheryl Anderson graduated with a Bachelor of Community and Social Development
Ashlie Archer graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Pathway to Teaching Primary)
Erin Ash graduated with a Master of Teaching (Primary)
Jake Barton graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Pathway to Teaching Secondary)
Caitlin Batten graduated with a Master of Teaching (Primary)
Nenah Becquet graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Primary) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education
Abbey Bergan graduated with a Bachelor of Midwifery
Giulia Blasonato graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Suzanna Boyd graduated with a Graduate Certificate in Counselling
Kyle Brazel graduated with a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours)
(continued overleaf)
Kayla McCorriston. Photography: Sally Tsoutas.
Katelyn Brennan graduated with a Bachelor of Policing
Jordan Clark graduated with an Associate Degree in Engineering
Kiara Combo graduated with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
Jack Davis graduated with a Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours)
Ebony Domanski graduated with a Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedicine)
Marley Ann Maree Edwards graduated with an Undergraduate Certificate in Cybersecurity, Cybercrime and Behaviour
Anne-Maree Fohrman graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Primary) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education
Luke Galea graduated with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
Amanda Gleeson graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Samantha Graham graduated with a Graduate Diploma in Child Health
Chad Grant graduated with a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Business
Nicholas Griffen graduated with an Associate Degree in Engineering
Abby-Lee Honeysett graduated with a Bachelor of Medical Science (Forensic Mortuary Practice)
Steven Horley graduated with a Bachelor of Science
Jaime Howard graduated with a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours)
Jasmyn Irwin graduated with a Bachelor of Arts
Jasmine James-Howard graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Ebony Jolly graduated with a Bachelor of Science
Jasmine Kernaghan graduated with a Bachelor of Health Science (Health and Physical Education)-Pathway to Teaching (Secondary)
Joshua Kubecka graduated with a Bachelor of Policing
Jasmine Langworthy graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Primary) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education
Christine Lee graduated with a Bachelor of Health Science
William Li graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Sarah Loft graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Tayla Lonergan graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
MacKenzie Loxton graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Primary) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education
Claire Lynch graduated with a Bachelor of Policing (Leadership Program)
Lachlan Marlow-Conway graduated with a Master of Teaching (Secondary)
Elliot Mason graduated with a Bachelor of Computer Science
Tegan McErlane graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Pathway to Teaching Primary)
Courtney Miller graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Primary) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education
Alison Milson graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Annaliese Morgan graduated with a Bachelor of Medical Science
Dr Karen Moses graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology)
Lachlan Myers graduated with a Bachelor of Business
Jessica Nakhoul graduated with a Master of Teaching (Primary)
Kobi Newell graduated with a Bachelor of Business
Ricky Newell graduated with a Bachelor of Communication
Louise Nicholas graduated with a Master of Teaching (Primary)
Bianca Nicholas-Ceissman graduated with a Bachelor of Midwifery
Emma O’Brien graduated with a Master of Teaching (Primary)
Samantha Payne graduated with a Bachelor of Midwifery
Brodie Petran graduated with a Bachelor of Accounting
Kyle Plant graduated with a Bachelor of Construction Management
April Price graduated with a Bachelor of Arts
Ellie Raper graduated with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
Dr Rhonda ‘Anjilkurri’ Radley graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development)
Jenna Rose graduated with a Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedicine)
Peter Rumble graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (Non graduate entry)
Jaala Sadler graduated with a Bachelor of Music
Charlotte Schonhagen graduated with a Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedicine)
Rebecca Scott graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Primary) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education
Eilis Scott graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work
Ashlee Scott graduated with a Master of Teaching (Secondary)
Kascha Semisi graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Madeline Sharpe graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Zoology)
Chantelle Sidebottom graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Tara Silimaibau graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Jacqualin Simmons graduated with a Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedicine)
Jemma Sutton graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Singamanikandan Thevar graduated with a Graduate Diploma in Cardiac Sonography
Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine graduated with a Master of Business Administration
Jennifer Tausala graduated with a Bachelor of Medical Science
Courtney Taylor graduated with a Diploma in Design Extended - Visual Communication
Blake Toomey graduated with a Master of Teaching (Secondary)
Marlee Tyson graduated with a Master of Teaching (Primary)
Claire Watson graduated with a Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology)
Memphis West-Sooby graduated with a Bachelor of Criminology
Zachary Wheatley graduated with a Master of Teaching (Secondary)
Teaghan Whitton graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Peta Woodland graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing
Abbey Marie Zabielo graduated with a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours)
Alumni
Western Sydney
University congratulates Dr Anjilkurri Rhonda Radley and Dr Karen Moses on recently graduating with Doctors of Philosophy
In June Dr Anjilkurri Rhonda Radley graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development) and Dr Karen Moses graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (School of Psychology). This is a huge achievement for both scholars, and the University more broadly to have two Indigenous students graduate with their PhD in one ceremony.
Dr Anjilkurri Rhonda Radley is proud Birrbay-Dhanggati woman from the mid-north coast of New South Wales and walks with her saltwater, freshwater ancestors. Dr Radley recently finished her PhD in the field of language and education in the MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour & Development, and holds a Bachelor of Teaching, Graduate Diploma in Adult Community Education and a Master in Indigenous Language Education. She is an active Elder supporting the revival of culture through language and practices in her local communities. Her passion is to revive Gathang language. She advocates for Aboriginal languages to be learnt, spoken, taught and integrated into every-day life.
Dr Radley’s thesis is entitled ‘Usefulness of Gesture as Teaching Modality to learn the Gathang Language’. The purpose of the research was to explore the usefulness of gesture as a teaching modality to help preschoolers to learn Gathang Language. In her project, she adopted an experimental approach to evaluate whether preschoolers learn Gathang nominals and interrogatives better with gesture alongside verbal and pictorial instruction, than without. Her research findings have significant impact with the potential to increase our understanding of how gesture can play a major role in the acquisition and retention of a second language and inform the design and development of teaching resources for the revitalised Gathang language.
Dr Anjilkurri Rhonda Radley said the PhD journey offered her the opportunity to speak her truth and research an area of language teaching that she is passionate about, matjarr djuyal ‘hand talk’.
“Marrungbu djukal ‘a big thank you’ goes out to my supervisors, Professor Caroline Jones, Dr Mark Richards, Dr Jose Hanham, and Dr Tess Ryan, for the support and guidance through fires, floods, COVID shutdowns and the death of my mother. Words of thank you are not enough to express my deep appreciation of the time, commitment and effort my principal supervisor, Professor Caroline Jones, has given me. I am also appreciative of the financial and resource assistance received from Western Sydney University, The MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development and the ARC Centre of Excellence for the Dynamics of Language. It truly takes a mob/family/community to raise a leader. As we rise up to advocate change, we lift up others. I acknowledge I have stood on the shoulders of my ancestors and Indigenous researchers that have shone the light on Aboriginal knowledges and ways of being and doing,” said Dr Radley.
Dr Karen Moses is a proud Aboriginal Australian living on Darug Country. Dr Moses is a clinical psychologist, a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology and the Head of Clinical Services for the School of Psychology at Western. Dr Moses has research and practice expertise in anxiety and related disorders, evidence-based assessment, exposure-based therapy, tele-health and training and supervision of clinical psychology interns. She is
responsible for overseeing the training and supervision of Clinical Psychology trainees on placement who offer psychometric testing; and assessment and treatment of children, adolescents and adults presenting with a range of symptoms.
Dr Moses’ thesis is entitled ‘The assessment and exposure-based treatment of anxiety and related disorders: Use and barriers to use’.
Dr Moses’ research found that most clinicians in Australia report partial use of evidence-based assessment, higher use of exposure therapy, but only partial use of disorder specific exposure therapy techniques. Importantly, barriers to use of a comprehensive assessment and disorder specific exposure techniques were identified that can be used by researchers and training providers to improve training practice and, in turn, access to evidence-based assessments and treatments in Australia.
Dr Karen Moses was thrilled to graduate.
“I would like to acknowledge and thank my supervisors, Professor Tanya Meade and Professor Craig Gonsalvez. Tanya has been an incredible mentor, generously giving me the time, support and patience I have needed to complete this research. I am thankful to Craig for encouraging me to pursue this dream, and for his support and guidance,” said Dr Moses.
To learn more about higher degree research opportunities, please follow: www.westernsydney.edu.au/future/ study/how-to-apply/higher-degreeresearch-candidates
Dr Anjilkurri Rhonda Radley. Photography: Red Room Poetry.
Dr Karen Moses.
Research
CELEBRATING INDIGENOUS RESEARCH AT WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY
Western Sydney University is very proud of their Indigenous academics and higher degree research students. Please read about some of their outstanding research that was completed this year.
A.M. Kanngieser, Filipa Soares, June Rubis, Corrinne T Sullivan , Marnie Graham, Miriam Williams, Joseph Palis, Lauren Tynan, Lara Daley, Fabri Blacklock, Beth Greenhough, Sandie Suchet-Pearson, Sarah Wright, Kate Lloyd & Uncle Bud Marshall. (2024). Listening to place, practising relationality: Embodying six emergent protocols for collaborative relational geographies.
Emotion, Space and Society, 50, 101000. Bradley Burns, Rebekah Grace, Gabrielle Drake, & Scott Avery. (2024). What are Aboriginal children and young people in out-of-home care telling us? A review of the child voice literature to understanding perspectives and experiences of the statutory care system. Children & Society, 00, 1–26. https://doi.org/10.1111/ chso.12880
Corrinne T Sullivan & Jessica McLean. (2024). Contesting Digital Colonial Power: Indigenous Australian Sovereignty and Self-Determination in Digital Worlds. In The Routledge Handbook of Ecomedia Studies (pp. 212-219). Routledge.
Corrinne T Sullivan . (2024). Introduction: ‘What Matters: Indigenous LGBTIQ+ Pasts, Presents & Futures’. Journal of Global Indigeneity, 7(2), 1-7.
Gawaian Bodkin-Andrews , Susan Page & Michelle Trudgett . (2024).
Research Spotlight: Dr Sarah Kennedy
Dr Sarah Kennedy is a Wiradjuri scholar, born on Awabakal lands, raised on her home Wiradjuri Country. She now lives on Wangal Country and works on Darug lands. She grew up on Country, playing sport and being active – a privilege not all kids have in our progressively inactive society. Despite the benefit to our physical and psychological health when we are physically active – only around a quarter of Australians do enough. This includes the aerobic kind, but also musclestrengthening activity. In her teenage years, Dr Kennedy was introduced to resistance training and realised the benefit of this type of movement to her overall health and sports performance.
Dr Kennedy’s research journey began in 2012 as a work experience student at the University of Newcastle during the final year of her undergraduate studies in Exercise and Sports Science. This was her first insight into the world of schoolbased physical activity promotion and research. Seeing firsthand the impact of enhanced physical education and physical activity opportunities for the students, Dr Kennedy decided to continue her studies and become a primary teacher as well as complete her Masters in Exercise Science majoring in Strength and Conditioning. It would be this combined skill set, as an educator and strength training specialist, that would go on to provide the backbone
for her research endeavours into the future. Her PhD project, Resistance Training for Teens (RT for Teens) was a world-first school-based resistance training program delivered at-scale. Developed in partnership with the NSW Department of Education, RT for Teens has now impacted approximately 10,000 students across NSW. For her work on this project, she was awarded her PhD in 2021. Findings from Dr Kennedy’s PhD thesis are now being utilised to guide a funded NHMRC Partnership Project, evaluating updated versions of RT for Teens, in partnership with the NSW Department of Education (DoE) and NSW Ministry of Health. This body of work now position’s Dr Kennedy as an emerging leader in the field of youth resistance training, physical activity promotion and scale-up. Her current research is focused on the design, delivery, scale-up, and evaluation of school, community, and sport-based physical activity interventions for youth.
Dr Kennedy has presented on the importance of resistance training for youth at international (International Society of Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity, US Annual Conference on the Science of Dissemination and Implementation, Asia Pacific Society for Physical Activity) and national (Sports Medicine Australia) conferences, as well as invited to talks for Western Sydney
Shaming the silences: Indigenous Graduate Attributes and the privileging of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices. In M. Vass & M. Hogarth (Eds), Critical Studies and the International Field of Indigenous Education Research. Routledge, London.
Katrina Thorpe, Shaun Bell & Susan Page. (2024). Indigenous-led learning design: Reimagining the teaching team. Designing Learning Experiences for Inclusivity and Diversity: Advice for Learning Designers.
Lucy Nicholas, Corrinne T Sullivan & Sarah Callahan. (2024). ‘An abundance of cakes’: Assigned female at birth queer joy and queer ethics across generations. Sexualities, 13634607241245945.
Madi Day & Corrinne T Sullivan . (2024). Indigenous peoples, digital leisure, and popular culture. AlterNative: An International Journal of Indigenous Peoples, 11771801241256115.
Moving and the NSW Health Kids Rehab team. She has published 27 papers in leading scientific journals, with six as lead author. Notably, Dr Kennedy was invited to lead the chapter on ‘Implementation and Scale-Up of School-Based Physical Activity Interventions’ in the Routledge Handbook of Youth Physical Activity. She was also recently invited to lead a new chapter in the upcoming third edition of Strength and Conditioning for Young Athletes: Science and Application, titled ‘Integrating strength and conditioning in schools’. Over her career, Dr Kennedy has been awarded almost $1,000,000 as a Chief Investigator. She has also been the recipient of the School of Health Sciences Research Excellence (2021) and Research Impact (2022) awards, as well as the published feature in the Future Makers Gender Equity Issue (2023).
Dr Sarah Kennedy.
The Indigenous Research Network engaged in Western’s 2024 Annual Indigenous Writing Workshop
On the 17th and 18th of July Western Sydney University hosted the 2024 Annual Indigenous Writing Workshop. Indigenous academics and higher degree research students engaged in two days of writing workshops, inspiration sessions, methodological discussions, and free writing sessions. The writing workshops were a great networking opportunity for the Indigenous Research Network and were very productive with many working on their theses, journal articles and book chapters. Several members of
the Indigenous Research Network also had the opportunity to walk on Country at Garguree (the Gully in Katoomba) with Uncle David King, a highly respected Gundungurra Elder.
Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President, Indigenous Leadership, really enjoyed the annual Indigenous Writing Workshops.
“I was exceptionally proud of the critical conversations that arose from Professor Bodkin-Andrews’ presentations, where both staff and higher degree research students freely shared their thoughts on Indigenous protocols and ethics. The workshops were well-planned and facilitated to allow time for knowledge sharing, intensive writing and celebrations
Western congratulates Dr Georgia Durmush on being awarded as a Chief Investigator on a successful Australian Research Council Linkage grant
Dr Georgia Durmush is a proud Wailwan and Gomeroi woman and Senior Lecturer in the School of Social Sciences. Western Sydney University would like to congratulate her on being awarded as a Chief Investigator on a successful Australian Research Council Linkage grant that was announced recently.
The project Dr Durmush will be working on is entitled ‘Game-Changers: Enablers
of Indigenous University Students’ Success’ and aims to identify gamechangers that enable Indigenous students to complete University capitalising upon research advances and a powerful synergy of Indigenous and empirical methods. The project looks to generate new knowledge about enablers of University completion, leveraging research-derived interventions, and Indigenous voice and agency.
Dr Georgia Durmush said she is excited to be working on the project.
“The research project centres the voices and experiences of Indigenous University students. The outcome of this project will hopefully inform future educational change and inform policies
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, and Monique Tait-Owens, Senior Administrative Officer, for organising and facilitating the event,” said Professor Trudgett.
Professor Gawaian Bodkin-Andrews, Western Sydney University’s Director of Indigenous Research, said it was an inspirational two days seeing the mob work so hard together.
“It’s always an honour to walk and work on sacred Gundungurra and Darug Country. The crisp, fresh air, the inspiring views, and Dr Locke’s thoughtful Welcome to Country that taught of the deep strengths in shared places was a perfect start to the workshop. And to finish with Palawa scholar Lindsay McCabe’s amazing scholarly piece that won the Indigenist Writer’s award for weaving a critical Indigenous standpoint over the systemic white pathologies that protect the State from accountability over Aboriginal deaths – well that certainly got our intellectual fires burning even brighter,” said Professor Bodkin-Andrews.
To learn more about higher degree research opportunities please follow www.westernsydney.edu.au/future/ study/courses/research
Dr Georgia Durmush. Photography: Australian Catholic University.
and practices to implement Indigenous student-centred strategies and solutions resulting in more Indigenous graduates and leaders,” said Dr Durmush.
Members of the Indigenous Research Network at Western’s 2024 Indigenous Writing Workshops.