DEIRDRE GRAHAM
STUDENTS from St Joseph’s School Renmark were treated to a visit from indigenous elder Uncle Barney last week, as part of celebrations for NAIDOC and Multicultural Week.
Uncle Barney said he wanted to impart the need for all people to show respect to each other.
He said the St Joseph’s students were particularly interested in his didgeridoo – how was it made, where did it come from, how long had he been playing it – and enjoyed a story he told with the instrument.
“They were spellbound I think,” Uncle Barney said.
“I told them about the different sounds I was making, the story of a dog chasing a kangaroo, a kookaburra laughing, whales diving down deep.
“At the end of the sounds I made, well I thought it was a lion, but they said it sounded like an elephant, so I said, ‘okay, we will go with an elephant’, so it was pretty good.”
Uncle Barney said it was important for people of all ages, and from all walks of life, to learn the message of NAIDOC Week.
“It is all about reconciliation and that our country is unique,” he said.
“As Aboriginals, it is fitting for people to acknowledge that we are the first people of this country, and show respect.
“Instead of just waiting for NAIDOC Week or Multicultural Week, there should be ongoing events to really appreciate this country and the culture and the people who were originally in this country.
“That is what people need.”