The aim of pastoral care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students is to acknowledge the uniqueness of individuals.
Students are encouraged to embrace their Indigenous culture and share this knowledge while being fully involved in the school community.
Acknowledgement of Country at school events is an important way to create a sense of belonging for these students.
The Yaamba Road campus features a significantly cultural ‘Yarning Circle’. This special space is for our Indigenous students to meet as a group in addition to practicing their cultural activities.
The Yarning Circle is a starting point for many College functions and maintains the strong links Emmaus shares with traditional owners.
The Yaamba Road site is made even more significant in that it’s very name ‘Yaamba‘ means ‘home‘ in the Darumbal language.
Activities for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students include:
- NAIDOC Mass
- Year 11/12 Indigenous Leadership Camps
- Year 12 Indigenous Celebration Mass
- Indigenous Dance Group
- Regular meetings
Students represent their culture at other events throughout the year, including:
- School liturgies
- Other significant celebrations
Our vision for reconciliation at Emmaus College Rockhampton is to respect, recognise and advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ right to continue to practice their cultural heritage, values, customs, ceremonies and special relationships with lands and waters. We will work together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, staff, families and community members in achieving equal and equitable opportunities and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through improved services within the Catholic education system and through educating students about health, wellbeing and the importance of reconciliation in the early years of their