Community groups and educators unite to inspire Brewarrina youth
Young people in the Brewarrina region of NSW recently met with University of Melbourne staff and explored education, training and employment pathways beyond school.
Ms Paris Mordecai, Senior Coordinator, STEM Outreach (Indigenous), Faculty of Science, and Associate Professor Joseph West behind the University's stall at the Brewarrina Community Pathways Expo.
Hosted by Brewarrina Central School, the Brewarrina Community Pathways Expo brought together schools, organisations and the wider community. The University hosted an expo stall and was an event sponsor.
Aunty Kim Hardy, Community Engagement Officer at Brewarrina Central School, spoke at the expo, acknowledging the 31 stall holders and 150 participants. She noted that students took on leadership responsibilities to ensure the event ran smoothly, from preparing food, to taking photos, to supporting stall holders.
Aunty Kim Hardy speaking at the expo, with school principal Ms Jennifer Green and Aunty Mary Waites.
I’ve been working at Brewarrina Central School for 43 years and the Community Pathways Expo is the epitome of our school and community spirit.
“It brings people together – all of us – with the intention of wanting a better future for our young ones,” Ms Hardy said.
FEIT and Faculty of Science staff were involved on the day, after travelling to the region to connect directly with students, share insights into study pathways, and showcase opportunities in STEM.
The participation builds on a strong, ongoing partnership with Brewarrina Central School through programs, such as Return to Country and STEM on Barwon-Darling, and reflects a commitment to regional engagement and Indigenous partnerships.
The NSW Department of Education co-led the expo. Head Teacher, Secondary Studies (Education Pathways Program Far North West group of schools), Ms Deavelyn Besterwitch said she was pleased to see the expo bring together so many people to speak with students about different opportunities.
Remoteness should never be a barrier to education. Students cannot be what they cannot see, so creating aspirations and connecting students to post-school pathways is essential.
“Providing opportunities for schools in the far northwest region supports community growth and helps students envision a future beyond their immediate surroundings,” Ms Besterwitch said.
