On Friday, 19 August, St Michael’s Primary School, Nelson Bay, celebrated Book Week by inviting two cultural officers, John and Chris, from Murroook Cultural Centre to entertain and educate the students in the culture of the Worimi people of Port Stephens.

They spoke about culture as language, earth, people and story.

Principal, Helen Bourne, said, “We listened to stories and watched them dance while they played the didgeridoo. At the end they taught us the story of the Black Cockatoo and we were invited to dance. We are grateful they shared their stories with us.”

On Friday, 26 August, St James’ Primary School, Kotara South, held a parade covering all aspects of Australian culture.

Teacher Librarian, Sue Evans, said, “To explore ‘Australia: Story, Country’ and create great interest and variety, each class selected a different aspect of this theme and different music associated with this”

From Khe Sanh to Home Amongst the Gum Trees, the students explored all aspects of Australian history and culture.

“We’ve had a great week around the theme this year, with the musical production ‘Fairdinkum’ visiting yesterday, followed by the parade this morning and an Australian morning tea of lamingtons with the parents,” said, Principal, Mark Twohill.

Out at St Joseph’s Primary School, Kilaben Bay, the day began with a presentation from two Indigenous students that involved sharing their favourite Dreaming stories.

Teacher Librarian, Chloe Ryan, said “We were lucky to be joined by Aunty Di, Sophie and Amy-Lee's Grandmother who shared her own special knowledge and experiences of the stories and discussed the important lessons the stories teach us.

“'Tiddalik the Frog' was a favourite, especially because Aunty Di showed photos of a local site at Wollombi where a rock formation depicts the dreaming story of Tiddalik the Frog. A great day was had by all and we thank Aunty Di for kindly joining us.”