On Monday 8 May, 17 students from Sacred Heart, accompanied by Ms Barnes and Mr Walker, embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of Indigenous Australia with Red Earth. Over five days, the group visited sacred homelands in New South Wales, including Culpra Milli and Lake Mungo, to learn firsthand about Aboriginal culture, Country, and community.

The adventure began with a heartfelt smoking ceremony at Culpra Milli, welcoming students onto Country and introducing them to traditional owners Uncle Barry, Aunty Sophia, and Uncle Dick. Students learned about ancient fish traps, bush medicines, cultural tools like the coolamon, and even made clap sticks by hand—cutting, peeling, and sanding wood from local trees.

A visit to Mount Dispersion highlighted the importance of fairness and truth-telling in history. Uncle Barry’s stories moved students, emphasizing the role of young people in keeping culture alive. Later, weaving with Aunty Sophia around a warm campfire brought more stories—of spirits, family, and deep connection to land.

At Lake Mungo, the group met Aunty Tanya, who guided them through the world’s oldest outdoor museum. From 110,000-year-old clay to ancient animal tracks and sacred artefacts, students were immersed in a landscape rich with history. A sunrise viewing with a spiritual poem by Aunty Vicky offered a moment of deep reflection and gratitude.

Students also explored Aboriginal footprints estimated to be 19,000–23,000 years old, saw megafauna fossils, and learned about Mungo Man and Mungo Lady. The trip closed with a stunning sunset and a final moment of reflection, where students shared how the journey had impacted them.

This unforgettable experience offered more than just knowledge—it gave students a deeper respect for the land, its people, and the stories that shape Australia. The group expressed deep thanks to the traditional owners, their guides, Red Earth, and their bus driver, Darryl—'the man with the van'.