Students Visit Storm

Wallan Secondary College’s Year 12 First Nations students have been engaging with Lydall from the Melbourne Storm NRL Club through the NRL School to Work Program. 

This initiative leverages the powerful profile of Rugby League to support young Indigenous Australians in achieving success, providing them with valuable work experience, mentoring, and leadership opportunities.The program aims to ensure students not only complete school but also smoothly transition into further education, training, or meaningful employment.This initiative leverages the powerful profile of Rugby League to support young Indigenous Australians in achieving success, providing them with valuable work experience, mentoring, and leadership opportunities. 

As part of the program, the Year 11 and 12 students had the privilege of attending a cultural day at AAMI Park with the Melbourne Storm. The day began with a welcoming and smoking ceremony, an important ritual for honouring and connecting with the land and ancestors. This set the tone for an enriching cultural experience that followed.

Students then had the exciting opportunity to meet some of the Melbourne Storm players, while watching them train for their upcoming match. They heard from stars like Cameron Munster and Xavier Coates, who shared their personal journeys, insights into their careers, and the importance of staying grounded while pursuing their passions.

The day concluded with an educational session from Dadirri, where the students learned about traditional Indigenous practices such as the creation and use of the boomerang, as well as traditional hunting techniques. This hands-on experience not only deepened the students' understanding of their cultural heritage but also fostered a strong sense of pride and connection to their identity.

The experience provided a unique blend of cultural education, sport, and leadership development, empowering the students to embrace their futures with confidence. It's a great reminder of how powerful programs like this are in creating opportunities for young Indigenous Australians to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.