The camp was delivered in partnership with the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles and was supported by the Police Citizens Youth Clubs (PCYC).
In addition to delivering leadership workshops, career planning, education sessions and recreational activities to the Walgett High School students at the camp, the Royal Far West society introduced them to a range of inspiring innovators and leaders – including NCIE’s Indigenous Digital Excellence (IDX) Learning Experience Designer, Zoe Betar.
Zoe spoke to the group about her personal journey, about what life was like for her growing up and the big challenges and events that shaped her perspective and led her to where she is today. She talked about her work at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence and some of the exciting Indigenous Digital Excellence (IDX) Initiative projects supported by Telstra. The response to Zoe’s talk was wonderful- and one of the students is now even more determined to pursue a career in robotics!
The Royal Far West Society’s CEO Lindsay Cane said, “one of the most powerful things we can do as part of these camps, is to give students the opportunity to meet with young community leaders across a range of fields. These young people are the future leaders of their communities so it’s great to be able to connect them with positive role models who can share their insights and experiences. Like the NCIE, Royal Far West Royal Far West is committed to supporting the health and well-being of young Indigenous people and to promoting excellence. Zoe was an absolute inspiration to all of us.”
During their time in Manly, the Walgett Campers also enjoyed a very special invitation to morning tea at Kirribilli House with the Prime Minister’s wife, Margie Abbott, visited a Sea Eagles training session, participated in surfing lessons at Manly Beach and met with the Governor and Mrs Hurley at Government House.
Royal Far West has recently appointed an Aboriginal Cultural Relations Coordinator to further strengthen its engagement with Aboriginal communities and organisations.
Photo: Walgett High Student Michael Ray with Lois Birk, Aboriginal Education Officer at the Royal Far West School.