A small gesture turned into a big gathering at Lilli Pilli Public School this month, for the opening of an outdoor area symbolising an Indigenous past and present student generation.
The school welcomed its garden and new learning space, which was dedicated to the Dharawal people, on September 6.
In the past year the school has brainstormed ways to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land. The process began with a personal acknowledgement of country to more thoroughly recognise the custodians with physical additions to the playground that would also benefit children.
Attorney General Mark Speakman, Aunty Deanna Schreiber and deputy chairman of Sutherland Shire Council's Aboriginal Advisory Committee, Bruce Howell, were among the guests at the official opening.
Legendary country music performer Col Hardy also sang for pupils.
Year 6 teacher Anne Martyn says the idea is to keep the stories and memories alive.
"This is what inspired us as a school to build this peaceful garden and outdoor learning space, forging a great relationship with the school community," she said.