TAFE NSW

The Koori Writing Group, is one of TAFE NSW Taree’s innovative programs. It’s having a positive impact on the lives of Aboriginal people by empowering them to share their stories in their own words and communication styles. This initiative is not just about enhancing writing skills; it is a deeply moving and healing process that allows participants to reflect on their struggles, dreams, triumphs, and the grief and loss of loved ones and culture.

Through the Koori Writing Group, participants have the opportunity to write and publish their stories, capturing their unique experiences as Aboriginal people. These stories are then compiled into books, which are distributed to families, friends, and local TAFE NSW libraries. This ensures that these important narratives are preserved as part of our collective history, offering a perspective that is often overlooked in mainstream historical accounts.

One of the standout aspects of this program is its focus on storytelling as a means of cultural preservation and education. For instance, Biripi woman Toni Baxter has written a short story about her family traditions called “Naanggu Duran” (Mother Shell), which celebrates her grandmother’s traditional shell work. This story, along with others, is part of the “Short Stories for the Mob” collection, which is used to teach Indigenous people to read, thereby addressing a critical need for culturally relevant literacy resources. Digital versions of the Collection have been sent to the Reading Writing Hotline for further distribution throughout Australia via their networks.

The program has also expanded to include TAFE NSW Great Lakes, encouraging more Indigenous people to share their stories. The stories cover a wide range of themes and are highly relatable, making them valuable resources for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers.

The Koori Writing Group is a testament to the power of storytelling in healing and cultural preservation. By providing a platform for Aboriginal people to share their stories, the program not only strengthens their writing skills but also ensures that their voices are heard and their experiences are acknowledged and respected. This initiative is a vital step towards reconciliation and a more inclusive understanding of our shared history.

If you know of an organisation who would be interested in supporting the program’s books to be distributed more widely to schools, organisations, and local council libraries please contact Debi.Richardson1@tafensw.edu.au