Bella Grace Early Learning Centre, Beerwah

In a reconciled Australia, national unity means Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights, histories and cultures are valued and recognised as a part of a shared national identity. Reconciliation involves all our community working together to value and recognise the richness and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures that exist in our community. As a service we recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures are the oldest living cultures in the world.

We can’t change the past, but we can learn from it. We embrace the strength of the local First Nations communities and their connection to the Land with the Glasshouse Mountains.  We strive to respectfully embed a moto, that when we care for the Land, the Land cares for us.  We recognise the significance of the local stories and encourage children, families and educators alike to learn through song and dance. Each child, family and educator is encouraged and supported to engage and learn from the Land, listen to the animals and share the space with them. As a service, we will embark on a journey together for growth and understanding of local Gubbi Gubbi peoples as we respectfully engage with Elders and community members. We understand the need for ongoing respectful relationships with the Gubbi Gubbi people and Elders, and strive to enhance our relationships, listen and respect our opportunities for reconciliation. We will immerse ourselves in rich cultural learning opportunities, that will enhance our understanding and support our teaching structure towards strong relationships, built on trust and respect and that are free of racism.