SM TAFE reflects during National Reconciliation Week

This year's theme, "Now More Than Ever," serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It underscores the importance of truth telling, unity and perseverance in our journey towards reconciliation.

At SM TAFE, we have a diverse community of staff and students across our twelve campuses. During National Reconciliation Week, everyone is invited to learn about our nation’s histories, cultures and achievements. This year, it’s brought to life through a week-long series of events and activities including a Cuppa & Yarn event at our Thornlie campus to share stories, and walking in solidarity in the Walk for Reconciliation in Langley Park.

A breakfast was held on Tuesday, May 28 at the Bentley Pines Training Restaurant at SM TAFE Bentley campus. The event featured meaningful conversations and meals prepared and served by our hospitality and cookery students.

Attendees heard a Welcome to Country from Whadjuk Noongar man Barry Winmar who is the Deputy Mayor of City of Kwinana. The keynote address was from Emma Garlett, a Nyungar-Nyiyaparli-Yamatji woman from Geraldton who is passionate about advancing sustainable mining, environmental justice and Indigenous rights. Emma is a Director at Garlett Group, a newly formed boutique specialist sustainability and communications firm.

SM TAFE Managing Director Darshi Ganeson-Oats says that reconciliation is embedded in our core values and actions at SM TAFE.

“We strive to create an inclusive learning environment that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal Australians and provides opportunities for all students to learn together.

“We have two dedicated Aboriginal centres, Koora Marr at Thornlie campus and Kadadjiny Mia at Rockingham. Our Aboriginal support team are instrumental in ensuring our support centres are culturally safe spaces and remain connected to community,” said Ms Ganeson-Oats.

During this week we share, reflect and act on the theme Now More Than Ever. SM TAFE asked members of our staff team what National Reconciliation Week means to them. Watch the full video to hear from our community.

We acknowledge the Noongar peoples of the Whadjuk and Gnaala Karla areas as the Traditional Custodians of the lands that South Metropolitan TAFE campuses are situated upon. We acknowledge the wisdom of Aboriginal Elders past and present, and pay respect to Aboriginal communities of today. We recognise the rich and diverse culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and the valuable contribution this diversity brings to our college and country.