The Orange education community recently came together for a significant Partnership Agreement Renewal Ceremony with the Junior Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG), reaffirming the shared dedication to enhancing educational outcomes for Aboriginal students.

The ceremony brought together the Department of Education leadership team, school principals from the Orange Network, local and Western AECG executive members, Junior AECG student representatives, their families, the Orange Local Aboriginal Land Council CEO along with the Orange Aboriginal Medical Service CEO. Together, they celebrated the ongoing collaboration and mutual commitment to walking alongside one another in strengthening education equity.

The ceremony featured many significant highlights. It began with a traditional smoking ceremony led by Uncle Rick and Brother Trevor, principals and the local DoE leadership team standing in front of their students pledging their ongoing commitment to strengthening Aboriginal education and a performance by the combined schools Wula Gurray girls' choir, whose name translates to “Voice of Change."

They performed a powerful rendition of "I Am Australian," with the choir beginning the song in English, before progressing to verses sung in Wiradjuri language, creating a reflection of cultural pride and connection.

“This event demonstrated true partnership in action. It acknowledged the vital roles of schools, families, community members and Aboriginal voices working jointly to support equity, connection and opportunity in education,” Orange Network’s Director Educational Leadership, Duncan Auld, said.

As a symbolic commitment, all attendees signed the physical partnership agreement, with adults inscribing their names along with their roles, while students added their thumbprints and initials around the document’s edge.

There were inspiring words from special guests, including Aunty Mary Croaker, president of the Orange AECG and Mr Auld. Their voices echoed the importance and strength of cross-sector partnership and collaboration.

The renewal ceremony in Orange not only celebrated cultural heritage and partnership but also reinforced the vision for stronger and equitable educational outcomes for all Aboriginal students across the region.