TAFE NSW

TAFE NSW Aboriginal Learner Support Officer Anita Brunhuber is passionate about keeping the Dhurga language alive for future generations and through her work is educating a community of like-minded people.
In 2022, Anita was instrumental in helping establish the successful Dhurga language classes delivered out of TAFE NSW Moruya for communities on the South Coast.

“I spoke with Elders, community organisations and others about increasing opportunities for Aboriginal people to learn their local language in a culturally safe environment. It was clear to me there was plenty of interest in this type of course.”

With her encouragement throughout the community, the first Certificate I in Aboriginal Language at TAFE NSW Moruya was a success. Then, with her commitment to improvement, Anita set about supporting the growth of language courses beyond the initial class, to a Certificate II and then further with a Certificate III.

“The success of the language courses is a team effort with a group of us registering, interviewing, enrolling, and teaching learners.”

“Learning the language brings people together and connects people with their culture. It’s also a helpful skill for people who are considering working as cultural tour guides, Aboriginal Land Council workers, and teachers. In fact, one of our graduates has now working in our Dhurga language team as an Education Support Officer.”

According to Head Teacher Fiona D’Alessandro Anita has an innate ability to connect with learners.
“She knows how to help them achieve their best. “She does this with compassion and understanding and the learner’s appreciate Anita’s dedication and quiet mentoring.”

Anita said one key to success was delivering the Dhurga language classes face to face at TAFE NSW Moruya, as well as online, making it accessible to people anywhere.

“When we started offering the Certificate II in Basic Aboriginal Languages for Social use, we had learners in Moruya as well as a group who would come together at TAFE NSW Ulladulla and use the campus’ Connected Learning Point. The result was two very strong community groups leading language revitalisation in both of those areas.”

Locally, learners say the courses sparked more than a movement to keep the Dhurga language alive.

As TAFE NSW learner Ebony Carriage put it “This course is teaching us the language, however it’s also creating a real community connection – a sense of community.”