Community & Business
30 June, 2026
Wyreema State School News
On Tuesday 2nd June, our Year 4/5 students and staff had the privilege of visiting Amaroo Environmental Education Centre to participate in the Murri Migaloo Magic program.
The experience provided a valuable opportunity to learn about and compare the lives of First Nations Peoples with life in Australia today.
Throughout the day, students engaged in a variety of hands-on activities that encouraged teamwork, problem-solving and a deeper understanding of First Nations cultures and traditions.
Working collaboratively in small groups, students used modern materials and tools to design and construct shelters.
The shelters were arranged in a semi-circle, creating a community space similar to a yarning circle where students shared lunch together.
Students then discussed how First Nations Peoples traditionally built shelters using natural materials such as branches, bark, leaves and grasses, adapting their homes to suit the environment around them.
Students also enjoyed a guided bush walk where they explored the local environment and learned about native plants and trees that First Nations Peoples used for shelter, warmth, tools and weapons.
Along the way, students discovered termite mounds and were excited to spot a tawny frogmouth resting among the trees.
During a series of cultural activity rotations, students experienced traditional practices including attempting to create fire using friction, grinding grain into flour, digging for yams using sticks, applying ochre markings and playing a traditional First Nations game.
These activities helped students gain a greater appreciation for the knowledge, skills and resourcefulness of Australia’s First Nations Peoples.
A special highlight of the day was the opportunity to join students from Highfields State High School who were visiting Amaroo as part of National Reconciliation Week.
Together, students participated in a smoking ceremony and learned about the significance of reconciliation and the lasting impact of Eddie Mabo’s contribution to Australian history.
This was a unique and memorable experience that enriched students’ understanding of truth-telling, respect and the importance of recognising the histories and cultures of First Nations Peoples.
Our students represented our school with pride and enthusiasm throughout the day.
We are grateful to the staff at Amaroo Environmental Education Centre and Highfields State High School for providing such a meaningful and engaging learning experience.
The excursion encouraged students to reflect on the rich cultural heritage of Australia’s First Nations Peoples and the importance of continuing to learn from and respect the world’s oldest living cultures.
