Exploring Aboriginal Perspectives
With the scent of burning eucalyptus leaves in the air, Wenona families, educators and students gathered for an enlightening evening of learning at the 2025 Aboriginal Studies HSC Major Works Showcase.
The event opened with a traditional smoking ceremony which set the tone for respectful, detailed scholarship and conscientious efforts towards cultural understanding.
Each Aboriginal Studies student had approached their consideration of some of Ä¢¹½´«Ã½'s most complex and important conversations, with a genuine passion and months of research, including meaningful consultation with Aboriginal communities, professionals and organisations across the country and beyond.
Daniella’s vibrant magazine-style report drew on her love of creative arts and explored how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples use contemporary and performative arts to reclaim and redefine their narrative in modern Ä¢¹½´«Ã½. Her consultation with an Aboriginal opera singer based in London added an international dimension to her work, revealing how Indigenous Ä¢¹½´«Ã½n artists are reshaping global perceptions from stages across the world.
With aspirations for a healthcare career, Claudia gravitated towards examining culturally appropriate healthcare models across Ä¢¹½´«Ã½n states. She produced a bound academic report examining confronting statistics about health disparities, while highlighting successful initiatives that are making real differences. Through case studies including the Young Deadly Free project and the NSW Integrated Trauma-Informed Care Framework, Claudia's work offered practical insights that healthcare practitioners in attendance found particularly valuable.
Keira brought a unique perspective to her interactive website project, having experienced education in New Zealand, London and Ä¢¹½´«Ã½. She examined how different education systems address Indigenous histories after consulting with a New Zealand school principal who provided fascinating contrasts to approaches taken in NSW. She also reached out to Reconciliation Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ to gain an understanding of current best practice. The website Keira produce cleverly applies interactive elements to demonstrate how curriculum choices shape Reconciliation efforts.
Two students channelled their sporting passions into powerful examinations of Aboriginal experiences in Ä¢¹½´«Ã½n sport. Charlotte's magazine-style report traced racism in sport from historical exclusion to contemporary challenges, weaving together stories of icons such as Cathy Freeman OAM, Adam Goodes and Eddie Betts. Her analysis went beyond individual experiences to explore the broader social and political implications of racism in our national games.
Meanwhile, Maddie created striking infographic posters examining how Aboriginal sporting organisations advocate for health improvements while strengthening community identity. Her visual approach made complex data accessible, demonstrating how sport serves as both a platform for change and a space for cultural celebration.
Natalie tackled the politically charged topic of constitutional recognition. Her comprehensive website drew parallels with Indigenous communities internationally to provide useful context for the debate, while exploring concepts of self-determination and social equality.
Mikaela's professional-quality podcast episodes on the Stolen Wages brought attention to a lesser-known chapter of Ä¢¹½´«Ã½n history. Using professional equipment, she crafted 45 minutes of compelling audio that balanced historical documentation with contemporary voices, exploring not just what happened but why so few Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ns know about it.
Tully produced a timely website that explores traditional bush medicines and Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP). As pharmaceutical companies increasingly look to traditional knowledge, her examination of bio-prospecting versus bio-piracy offered crucial insights into protecting Indigenous heritage while acknowledging its value. Her work featured a sophisticated understanding of copyright law and its implications for Indigenous communities seeking to maintain control over their cultural knowledge.
Overall, the Showcase was a tribute to the importance of open-hearted listening and genuine understanding and a source of valuable contributions to important national conversations.