Melbourne Storm x School to Work Cultural Day /

Melbourne Storm School to Work Program Welcomes Students with Cultural Day at AAMI Park

Wednesday, March 19th, the School to Work Program hosted a vibrant Cultural Day to welcome the new Year 11 and 12 students into the program. With over 40 Aboriginal students in attendance, the day was filled with cultural learnings, exposure to elite sport, and meaningful connections.

The event commenced with a powerful Acknowledgment to Country and a traditional Smoking Ceremony led by Dardi Munwurro, setting a respectful and inclusive tone for the day. Students were then given the opportunity to gain insight into the history and culture of the Melbourne Storm, as shared by the club’s first Aboriginal player, Peter Robinson.

A major highlight of the day was watching the Melbourne Storm team train at AAMI Park Stadium, followed by an exclusive meet and greet with the players. The students then participated in one-on-one interviews with star players Cameron Munster and Xavier Coates, who generously shared their life experiences, challenges, and the dedication required to achieve their lifelong dream of playing professional rugby league.

Dardi Munwurro further enriched the students’ knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal culture by sharing personal stories and teachings on various Aboriginal artefacts, explaining their significance and traditional methods of creation and use.

The celebration continued the following evening when students attended the Melbourne Storm game at AAMI Park Stadium, witnessing an exciting victory as the Storm won over the Panthers.

The day was a fantastic opportunity for students to form new connections, learn more about their Aboriginal culture, and be inspired by the dedication and perseverance of elite athletes. A special acknowledgment goes to Dardi Munwurro for making the day one to remember.

The event was attended by students from various schools, including Wallan Secondary College, Assumption College, Parade College, Hallam Senior School, Thornbury High School, Staughton Secondary School, University High, Point Cook Secondary School, and Sunbury College.

It was a day of cultural enrichment, inspiration, and celebration, setting the tone for an exciting year ahead in the Indigenous School to Work Program.