Taking on the job of principal for a day at Badger Creek Primary School last week was Wurundjeri Ngurungaeta (headman) Murrundindi. Pictured with him are prep students Tyler and Lochie, and the school’s usual principal, Garry Embry.By Dion Teasdale
BADGER Creek Primary School students ditched their classrooms last week to spend a day at the Healesville Sanctuary as part of the Principal for a Day program.
At an assembly held on Thursday morning, 17 August, the school’s usual principal, Garry Embry, handed over the top job to Wurundjeri Ngurungaeta (headman) Murrundindi.
Mr Embry gave Murrundindi the keys to the principal’s office, handed over his neck tie and presented Murrundindi with the principal’s name badge.
“Right across the state today important members of the communities have been asked to be principal for the day and we have asked Aboriginal elder Murrundindi to lead our school for the day,” Mr Embry said.
Murrundindi, who donned Mr Embry’s tie and willingly accepted the keys to his office, said it was an honour to be asked to lead the school.
“This is my first time as principal and I am excited to accept the challenge,” he said.
Murrundindi immediately wielded his newfound authority by announcing to the school’s 260 students that usual classes for the day were cancelled and lessons would take place at the Healesville Sanctuary instead.
“We are going to do something different today. We are leaving the classroom behind and will be learning the way I was taught, in the bush,” he said.
The announcement was met with cheers and applause.
The students spent their day at the Sanctuary touring exhibits and taking part in educational activities.
Murrundindi performed a traditional smoking ceremony in the Birds of Prey exhibit and the students enjoyed a visit to the Sanctuary’s new Australian Wildlife Health Centre.
“After being principal for a day I think I’d like to next try being the prime minister for a day,” Murrundindi joked.
Mr Embry said he asked Murrundindi to be principal for the day to help develop stronger links between the school community and the local indigenous community.
Murrundindi said taking part in the event was a great way to build richer relationships with the school’s students, parents and staff.
“This is a great way to widen the school’s understanding of Aboriginal culture and develop greater respect,” he said.
