Transgrid Discovery Hub connects Riverina students to Wiradjuri culture

The Wiradjuri Education Module, delivered in partnership with local Indigenous educators, the Girls at the Centre, and cultural practitioners, aligns with key school curriculum outcomes, aiming to enhance student’s cultural awareness and understanding.

Transgrid General Manager Strategic Advocacy, Government and Legacy, Nicole Ryan, emphasised the importance of this initiative in supporting cultural learning and reconciliation.

“Transgrid is deeply committed to fostering respectful relationships and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities,” Ms Ryan said.

“The Wiradjuri Education Module offers a meaningful way for students to engage with and learn about Wiradjuri culture, language and history.

“We have been honoured to collaborate closely with local Wiradjuri Elders and educators to ensure an authentic, respectful and impactful educational experience for all participants.

“This program not only enhances cultural awareness but also builds a greater sense of pride and responsibility among young people to preserve and revitalise Indigenous culture for future generations.”

The workshops, running from 22-24 July for primary students and 29-31 July for secondary students, will feature a diverse range of interactive and immersive activities.

Highlights include a Welcome to Country ceremony, yidaki (didgeridoo) playing, Wiradjuri language sessions, traditional storytelling, and hands-on cultural activities conducted within the Discovery Hub’s community space and yarning circle.

Wiradjuri educator and animation artist Bernard Higgins from Birdyulang Animations is leading a series of interactive workshops during the two-week program.

Mr Higgins will introduce students to facial-capture animation technology, teaching them simple Wiradjuri words and phrases and creating a collaborative digital avatar video that reflects the diversity of voices engaged with Wiradjuri language.

“I feel that the Wiradjuri Education Module is important for students and the broader community because it may be the first real opportunity for some to access Wiradjuri culture and language,” Mr Higgins said.

“Even though Aboriginal people are the oldest continuing culture in the world, we’re also embracing new technologies alongside traditional storytelling methods.

“Wiradjuri people are only a small percentage of the population and working with the Transgrid Discovery Hub in being able to deliver these sessions will help build strong supporters and allies to help preserve and share our language and culture.”

The Wiradjuri Education Module further contributes to local decision-making, helping to close educational and cultural gaps in line with broader reconciliation goals.

“Through initiatives like this, we continue to champion reconciliation within our industry, creating opportunities for cultural education that resonate deeply with local communities,” Ms Ryan added.

“We’d also like to thank the local community for their overwhelming support for this initiative and their continued support of the Discovery Hub.”

Due to the popularity of this program, it has already been fully booked. Schools are encouraged to register their interest on the Transgrid Discovery Hub website to receive information on upcoming events and school programs to ensure they don’t miss out on future opportunities.

To register your interest or learn more, visit: https://www.transgrid.com.au/community/wagga-discovery/

Media enquiries: Jaryd Ramsey – 0407 132 406