STUDENTS at St Mary’s were able to embrace Indigenous culture during NAIDOC activities held at the primary school last Thursday.

NAIDOC Week ran during the July school holidays, so this was an opportunity for pupils to learn more about the ancient history of Australia’s First Nation peoples during term.

The morning began with a Welcome to Country conducted by Uncle John Franklin who was joined by Vern Simson and Miranda Connaughton.

Later in the morning Taungurung woman Talitha Annuscheit led a time of storytelling with the younger grades.

“I love to share my culture with everyone, and the next generation is my big passion” she said.

Seeing the joy in children as she shares her stories and those of her people is important to Talitha.

Children were then allowed to handle some traditional cultural artifacts and ask questions.

This was followed by a painting and drawing session with a focus on Indigenous culture.