Almost 70 Aboriginal students from the Ryde district have gathered at the Field of Mars Environmental Education Centre on Wallumedegal land to connect with culture and build a sense of belonging.

Primary and secondary students from 12 schools in the Ryde area participated in the first Ryde Cammeray Culture and Connection Day.

Students went bushwalking, explored significant features of the land and learned how to use different boomerangs, make a campfire and play traditional games.

The principal of Ermington Public School, Jennifer Riley, a proud Gandangara-Wiradjuri descendant, said the focus of the day was to provide enriching opportunities for Aboriginal students to make new friendships with peers and engage in on Country activities.

“We want our students to feel they belong and feel proud about who they are. We want them to know their past and what they have to offer the future,” she said.

“It’s about bringing culture to life and connecting us together.”

To start the day, students participated in a smoking ceremony and Acknowledgement of Country ceremony led by Ermington Public School.

Marsden High School student Tyrell Cooke, who has Biripi, Dunghutti, Bundjalung and Wiradjuri background, entertained participants with a didgeridoo performance.

Tyrell used the didgeridoo to mimic sounds made by animals, including emus, snakes and crocodiles.

He said the day helped create awareness and understanding for the students.

“This is all about your background and your identity, so it’s good to explore and know about,” he said.

Bush medicine practices left a lasting impression on Year 6 Ermington Public student Zarlee.

“We were shown how, if you get an ant bite, there are plants that can help you, and also how we can care for nature,” she said.

Ms Riley said parents and carers had joined the students after lunch.

“They were able to see what their children had learned and feel confident talking about culture with them, but also know that it’s valued in public schools,” she said.