By Sam Donohoe, 1st Austinmer Scouts Committee Chair
On a cool and clear Wednesday evening in June, 1st Austinmer Scouts of all ages gathered together at the 1st Austinmer Scout Hall for an Aboriginal cultural experience.
Scouts were very fortunate to have Clarence Slockee leading proceedings. Clarence is a Cudgenburra/Bundjalung man with extensive experience in environmental and cultural education and is a frequent presenter on Gardening Australia.
Following an Acknowledgment of Country, Clarence invited scouts to experience a traditional ‘smoking ceremony’, where the purposeful smouldering of native plants offers a spiritual and physical cleansing. Scouts were then guided through an evening of learning by Clarence, who proved an immensely engaging presenter who shared teachings on Indigenous language, tools, use of native plants, and ceremony.
We learned (or some were reminded) that the term Dharawal is related to the Cabbage Tree Palm (also known as Darrangarra in the Yuin language group) and the tree is native to this area. We also learned how symbols inscribed on sticks and also delivered over distances via smoke were used to communicate between different Aboriginal clans despite their use of unique and different dialects and languages.
Clarence also demonstrated how tools such as boomerangs are used in hunting and then showed us how he uses rhythmic breathing to play the didgeridoo. Scouts then worked up a hunger by performing an animal dance to the captivating rhythmic drone of Clarence’s didgeridoo. The night was capped off with a bush tucker feed of grilled octopus, kangaroo, mussels, and seaweed, all polished off by our scouts who left the evening with full minds, hearts, and bellies.
1st Austinmer Scout Troop provides a supportive and inclusive environment for children and youth to develop skills, knowledge, resilience, and personal growth; all while participating in fun and challenging activities and adventures.
Each of our Scouts units (Joeys ages 5-8, Cubs ages 8-11, Scouts ages 11-14, and Venturers ages 14-17) meet one evening per week during the school term with additional opportunities for weekend adventures. We invite you to come and give Scouting a try.
Call 0409 695 575 if you are interested or have any questions.
