28/04/2008 - Wiradjuri Art Project - Condo Kids

Condobolin High School - Community Career Transition Project

Condo Kids is a creative and cultural program, with Aboriginal perspectives celebrated within the classroom. Condo Kids essentially targeted chronic non school attendees, by offering achievable and meaningful school based activities.

Students essentially learnt new skills in art production, and self awareness and pride was encouraged. Participants were directed to construct original creative designs. These designs were individually relevant and reflected their traditional roots and contemporary lives in Condobolin.

The lessons highlighted time management, cooperation with others, the school system and timetable. Condo Kids also encouraged meaningful relationships with staff and other students and their families.

20 Wiradjuri students from years 7,8,9 and 10 gathered each Tuesday at 1.30pm at Condobolin High School. They were directed by the Home School Liaison Officer Nina Machielse, who is also an artist, and class room support was given by the Aboriginal Education Officer, Sheree Brandy. Additional community members support was negotiated from the Wiradjuri Condobolin Coorporation manager Percy Knight. Young local Wiradjuri leaders Tim Atkinson and Lewis Coe assisted in class.

The students designed a logo for Condo Kids, which was printed up on baseball caps and polo shirts for the students to wear. 10 artworks were selected to be printed on gift cards which were beautifully presented in metal boxes with the logo and details of the project clearly outlined. These boxed cards will be available through the Condobolin High School and the Wiradjuri Condobolin Coorporation shop on the main street on Condobolin.   

Positive cultural awareness was highlighted by strengthening family and community ties with the individual student and their school.  

Condo Kids has the opportunity to becoming a community/school based art business. Due to the success of the project The Wiradjuri Condobolin Corporation has generously donated further funds to encourage the project. 

Photographer: Nina Machielse

'Condo Kids' was made possible through a grant from the Federal Government, Central West NSW Youth Transition Services Inc and staff negotiated from Percy Knight, Wiradjuri Condobolin Corporation Ltd.