Students unite in special NAIDOC footy project

The entire Year Six student group at Gwynne Park Primary School participated in the school’s biggest ever NAIDOC footy project this year.

More than 45 students produced their very own dot painting designs on footballs provided by the WA Football Commission (WAFC).

The project was led by ex-student Chloe Calyon and coordinated by the school’s Aboriginal Worker Javeena Miller.

Chloe is an Aboriginal and also a member of the ‘Follow the Dream’ Aboriginal program as well as the Deadly Sister program run by David Wirrpanda.

Chloe asked the students to write a life story that would frame the design of their unique dot-paintings.

The students learnt about the process of dot painting and the Aboriginal symbols used.

Gwynne Park WAFC School Ambassador Terry Pass said the project allowed the students to interact and share their stories.

“The project was so successful and really gave the students insight into Aboriginal culture and art,” he said.

“Many students commented that they really enjoyed the serenity of dot painting and having to work in this form of art helped them think more about Aboriginal culture and also their classmates. They often used the words community, belong and journey.

“I am very proud of how the children took part and the reactions they displayed.

“Football and Aboriginal culture go hand-in-hand. We all marvel at the skills they display in this great game and school football is no exception. The skills of some of the school’s Aboriginal girls and boys is absolutely breathtaking.

“I would like to thank everyone involved in this project including Liam Anthony at the WAFC, project leaders Chloe and Javeena, the class teachers and most of all the children who were open and honest in their words,” he said.