Year 10 HASS Workshop

A reflection by Year 10 student, Dakota Pearce

On the 1st of July 1, 2021, we had Colin Battersby do a zoom meeting with the Year 10 Class. Mr Battersby works for IMA (Indigenous Ministries Australia). IMA is a ministry that ‘plants the Gospel of God’s grace in remote as well as rural and urban centres, partners in ministry within Aboriginal communities and with Aboriginal believers and participates within churches with an Indigenous Australia demographic in cross-cultural co-operation’.

Mr Battersby explained to us about the importance of the Welcome to country and the importance of knowing our culture. He taught us that the First Nations People may have already known about Jesus when the English came, because of some of the Dreamtime stories told. Against everything we thought about the First Nations People, they grew crops, harvested and stored crops as told in the book Dark Emu (Suggested reading from Mr Battersby). He explained how different western and Indigenous culture is, including the way they people get into power. This information gives light to gives light to the complications of a First Nations Person being able to speak on behalf of all tribes.

Mr Battersby explained why some First Nations People think that Australia Day’s date should be changed. He then went into how the apology of the Australian government in 2008 wasn’t really enough because nothing changed and nothing was done to fix the mistakes of the past. He then explained that First Nations Peoples weren’t counted as Australians until 1967, and because of this they had stolen wages rather than given money they were given sugar, flour or tea. They also weren’t given land after coming back from war (Even though the ‘white, European’ Australians). He also gave us insight into the Battle in Pinjarra, which First Nations People want to change to The Pinjarra Massacre because ‘battle’ requires both sides being ready. Lastly, Mr Battersby explained that the lower attendance rates at school in First Nations children is because of the lack of First

Nations Teacher and teachings. He considered it a positive move that schools have started teaching the students more Aboriginal History, Culture and Language.

Today’s Zoom meeting was very interesting and I’m very thankful for Mr Battersby giving up two hours of his time. I would also like to thank Mrs Phipson and Mr Youngman for organizing it. It was very informative.

Dakota Pearce Year 10 ODE Student