Smoking Ceremony 3rd April 2025

This term, we were incredibly fortunate to welcome Cree from Murrook Culture Centre back to visit us and share her rich knowledge of Indigenous culture. Over the 10 weeks, Cree guided us through an amazing journey, teaching us about the Coolamon and many different Dreaming stories.

A Coolamon is a traditional Aboriginal wooden carrying vessel, often used by women to carry food, water, babies, or other items. It holds deep cultural significance and is a symbol of care, connection, and tradition. Through Cree’s guidance, we not only learned about its history and uses but also had the opportunity to create our own Coolamons using clay, exploring our creativity while connecting with culture.

A particularly special experience was when Cree visited Georgia’s house to cut a Coolamon from one of her trees. Together, Cree and Georgia selected the tree, then respectfully spoke to it and asked for permission before beginning. This practice honours the living spirit of the tree. Cutting a Coolamon does not harm the tree, and it remains alive. Cree guided Georgia through the shaping of the Coolamon on the tree, and together they carefully carved it out. Once the Coolamon was removed, Cree placed sticks on it to help it maintain its shape, then took it home to sand and oil it, returning it later to share with all the children. This was a deeply touching moment, allowing Georgia and our team to deepen their understanding and connection to Indigenous culture.

A particularly special experience was when Cree visited Georgia’s house to cut a Coolamon from one of her trees. Together, Cree and Georgia selected the tree, then respectfully spoke to it and asked for permission before beginning. This practice honours the living spirit of the tree. Cutting a Coolamon does not harm the tree, and it remains alive. Cree guided Georgia through the shaping of the Coolamon on the tree, and together they carefully carved it out. Once the Coolamon was removed, Cree placed sticks on it to help it maintain its shape, then took it home to sand and oil it, returning it later to share with all the children. This was a deeply touching moment, allowing Georgia and our team to deepen their understanding and connection to Indigenous culture.

On the day of the Smoking Ceremony, we took the opportunity to thank Cree for her invaluable knowledge and time shared with us all. To say thank you, we presented Cree with an Australian native flower arrangement, and scones with jam and cream containing lemon myrtle and strawberry gum. The children also presented her with a handmade card including their sentiments of thanks and drawings.

We are so grateful to Cree for sharing her knowledge, stories, and practices with us. The experiences this term have been truly memorable, fostering curiosity, respect, and a deeper connection to Indigenous culture for our whole community.

Cree also suggested that our Coolamon be used as a special serving platter for important occasions and functions. Each time we use it, we will think of Cree and the meaningful learning she has gifted us.