At Lyndale Secondary College, we proudly acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we learn—the Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation—and pay our respects to Elders past and present. Our commitment to Koorie Education is deeply embedded in our school culture, curriculum, and community partnerships. Each day, we work to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and perspectives are meaningfully and respectfully included across all areas of learning.
Central to this commitment is our Womenjika Cultural Learning Space—a vibrant, welcoming area created in collaboration with our community. This space is more than just a place; it represents a deep sense of pride in place. The area features artwork co-created by renowned Bunurong artist Steve “Ulula” Parker and our students, reflecting shared stories, connection to Country, and the strength of culture. It stands as a living testament to reconciliation, cultural celebration, and the power of collaboration.
Our bush tucker garden, generously supported by Plantmark Wantirna, houses a diverse collection of Indigenous food plants. We are particularly proud of our work to reintroduce Murnong—a staple food source and vital plant of the Kulin Nation. Its cultivation symbolises our ongoing commitment to the health, strength, and regeneration of Koorie communities.
We recognise that the journey of embedding First Nations perspectives in education must be deliberate and sustained. Our active Koorie Education program is focused on building the capacity of staff through professional learning, cultural competency training, and close collaboration with the Koorie Education Support Officers (KESO) team from the South East Melbourne Region. By working in partnership with network schools and community members, we are ensuring the vision of the Department’s Marrung Aboriginal Education Plan is brought to life.
Our approach to cultural inclusion is not limited to internal efforts. We are proud to have built strong partnerships with external supporters, such as the Rotary Club of Greater Dandenong and Endeavour Hills. Their involvement has helped to broaden awareness and reinforce the importance of cultural safety within educational settings. Their support underscores a shared belief: that every student deserves to feel seen, respected, and empowered through their identity.
At Lyndale, we understand that reconciliation is not a one-off project—it is an ongoing responsibility. Through place-based learning, community connection, and curriculum development, we are walking together with our First Nations community to build a stronger, more inclusive future for all.
Michelle Lewis — Assistant Principal Inclusion and Wellbeing
