For the sixth year in a row, St Peter Claver College Year 12 students have spent time getting to know and contribute to the First Nations communities of Cherbourg and Murgon.
The service-learning experience took place from Thursday 8 to Saturday 10 May 2025 with the three-day, two-night program devoted to building meaningful connections with the community and broadening students' awareness and understanding of First Nations culture and history.
Co-ordinator and Pastoral Leader, Daniel Meehan said the experience was a chance for Year 12 students to give back to others through the act of service.
“My hope is that the students who attended, understand the importance of service to others in our community, not expecting anything in return," he said. “I also hope they walk away with a better understanding of the Stolen Generations and share this with their family and friends as we work towards reconciliation in our country."
On the first day, students visited the Ration Shed Museum where they read, watched videos and were told stories of Aboriginal Elders and their experiences of settlement life in Cherbourg.
Year 12 student Kiera Lobegeiger recounted, “During our time at the Ration Shed, we were each given a 'permit' – a confronting symbol of the control and regulation Indigenous people experienced under the Protection Act in the 1900s. These laws gave State authorities power over the lives of Indigenous people, including their employment, movements and property."
On the second day students and staff ran a Mother's Day Breakfast barbecue for St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Murgon and then assisted classroom teachers with Wakka Wakka language, Art, Physical Education and Music lessons.
“We started the day by serving a barbecue breakfast for the St Joseph's Murgon community. This was a fun and awesome experience. Everyone was so grateful, and all the primary school students were extremely excited to have us there," said Year 12 student Noah Curtis.
Mr Meehan said, “Members of the Cherbourg and Murgon community regularly comment on the great work done by our students each year and the sad goodbyes at the end of our time reflect the community's gratitude for our positive impact."
To conclude the trip, the group visited Burt Button Lookout in Cherbourg and were privileged to hear local Elder Uncle Eric Law speak.
Mr Meehan said, “Uncle Eric's key messages were about looking after the land so the land will look after you; sharing the truth of Cherbourg with family and friends as a step towards reconciliation; and young people making the most of every opportunity in life.
Year 12 student Campbell Bartlet echoed the sentiments of his fellow trip participants when he said, “I'm incredibly appreciative for this experience and hope next year's Year 12s jump at the chance to partake in such a transformative and educational experience."
We sincerely thank Gloria Wilson, Daniel Meehan and Kirstin Winnel for their generous contribution of time and their support of the project.
© Brisbane Catholic Education, St Peter Claver College.