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Reconciliation statement

We, as young people living in the Great Southern, acknowledge that the Noongar peoples, past and present are the traditional owners of the Wagyl Kaip region of the Great Southern. We respect the local Noongar Elders, past and present, for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and the hopes of local Noongar people. We realise that Noongars have shared and cared for Wagyl Kaip from time immemorial.

We recall that during the foundation ceremony of Great Southern Grammar in 1998, Elder Aden Eades reminded us of the importance of the land between the King and Kalgan rivers. He said, “The school grounds are of special significance to local Noongars, with the Kalgan and King rivers meeting close by.  Never forget that this is Noongar land but you are welcome to use it, especially for the use of something like education.” We are thankful that you have so generously shared your heritage with us. We recognise the significant cultural history of the nearby Fish Traps as traditional gathering and ceremonial grounds for Menang, Goreng and Bibbulmun families. We promise to recall and respect the meaning of this special place to Noongar people. We promise to remind students regularly about the cultural importance of this place.

As young people living in Great Southern, we are sorry for all the wrongs done knowingly and unknowingly to your people. We seek your understanding and acceptance. We will continue to listen and open our hearts to value you and your culture and we ask you to help us to discover ways to share a common future with you in Wagyl Kaip.