The Lakes South Morang College Newsletter COLLEGE CONNECTIONS
WELCOME TO COUNTRY AND SMOKING CEREMONY WITH AUNTY ZETA, SIMONE AND NICOLE THOMSON
At The Lakes South Morang College, we are proud to acknowledge and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Australia ’ s First Peoples and affirm that this land always was and always will be a place for learning and connection. As part of our commitment to fostering respect, understanding, and connection, we recently held a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony—two significant practices that hold deep cultural and spiritual meaning. These ceremonies were conducted by the matriarchal Wurundjeri trio of Aunty Zeta, Nicole and Simone Thomson.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF A SMOKING CEREMONY
A Smoking Ceremony is a sacred ritual that involves the burning of Eucayluptus leaves, to cleanse the space, ward off negative energy, and promote the health and well - being of those present. It is a powerful way to bring people together, create a sense of belonging, and mark new beginnings—making it especially meaningful in a school environment.
WHY THESE PRACTICES MATTER IN SCHOOLS
By incorporating these traditions into our College ’ s events, we reinforce our commitment to learning, respect, and inclusivity. These ceremonies allow students and staff to experience Aboriginal culture in a living, meaningful way, fostering a deeper understanding of history and ongoing traditions and perspectives of our First Peoples. Our Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony are more than symbolic acts, they remind us that reconciliation is an active process—one that requires ongoing learning, reflection, and action.
WHAT IS A WELCOME TO COUNTRY?
A Welcome to Country is a formal ceremony conducted by a Traditional Custodian of the land, in our case, the Wurundjeri - Willam people. This practice acknowledges the ongoing connection of First Peoples to Country and welcomes people visiting the land by setting clear intentions for responsibility, care and connection whilst on Country. It is an important act of respect and recognition of Aboriginal sovereignty and custodianship.
We thank Aunty Zeta, Nicole and Simone for their generosity in sharing their culture with our community and look forward to continuing to learn from and with them.
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