DreamFest 2024

DreamFest Camp 2024: A celebration of Culture, and connection.

Last week at Lake Burrendong in western NSW, we brought together over 80 NASCA students for our annual DreamFest Camp — a cultural enrichment event that aims to connect our young people to their culture, community, and bring them on a journey of self-discovery.

The event opened with a heartfelt Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Joe Daley and Lewis Stanley which set the tone for a weekend full of Culture and connection.

Throughout the weekend, students immersed themselves in a range of workshops that celebrated Indigenous ways of being, knowing, and doing.

• Bush Food and Medicines Workshop: Bek Shephard from Edible Native Landscapes introduced students to the wonders of native bush foods and medicines through a sensory session. The highlight? A hands-on cooking experience using native ingredients that connected taste with tradition.

• Dance Workshops with Dinawans Connection: Students discovered the stories embedded in Aboriginal dance. Guided by Dinawans Connection, they learned how movement not only tells stories but also strengthen ties to Country and Culture.

• Aboriginal Star Totems Workshop: Aunty Beth Wright and Uncle John from TAFE NSW brought stories to life through artifacts and teachings about Aboriginal Star Totems. This session illuminated the cultural significance of the stars and their connection to Indigenous identity.

• Traditional Weaving with Karana Harris: With skilled guidance from Karana Harris of Made With Marrumbang, students explored the art of traditional weaving. Each participant created their own earrings and pendants, tangible symbols of their learning and creativity.

The impact of DreamFest was profound. Many students shared that they left the weekend with a renewed sense of cultural pride, deeper connections, and greater confidence. “I feel more connected with my Culture and a sense of belonging in the NASCA community. As a result, I’m a lot more confident in myself,” said Taylor from Dubbo Senior College.

“The knowledge I have of my history and the connections I’ve made with new people at NASCA mean everything,” said Khloe from Kempsey High School.

DreamFest is an important event in the NASCA calendar, enabling our young people to connect with their Culture, ensuring they can grow strong, proud, and confident.