EACH year, The Academy of Sport, Health and Education (ASHE) hosts the educational community event ‘ASHEfest’ where schools come together to celebrate the history and culture of Indigenous people.
Spread over three days, the fun filled event run by the students at ASHE includes ASHEletics, facepainting, story time with elders, arts and crafts, traditional Indigenous games and dancing, and much more.
Speaking to the origins of the festival, ASHE culture and family engagement officer Neil Cooper said, “It was really created for aboriginal students to have something to look forward to of their own. They can come and play games and interact with other schools, but they also get that cultural benefit from it as well- especially playing the traditional games from all different parts of Australia.
“The event was formed to give all students that sort of belonging and celebration of who they are and where they come from.”
While some children come to the event with knowledge of their culture and history, there are some who aren’t as aware of their background something ASHEfest aims to change.
“You get some kids and families that grow up really rich in their culture, but you also get a lot of kids that don’t know a lot about it. ASHEfest gives them an opportunity to come and feel like they’re being part of community and embracing culture, whilst learning about it at the same time,” said Neil.
“It’s been a real benefit for the community- to know ASHEfest is on and that it’s something they can come to. So come down and enjoy our culture with us.”
This year’s ASHEfest takes place from Wednesday, September 6 – Friday, September 8. For more information on the event or to register your attendance, contact Seldan Andrews on 58236600 or email seldan.andrews@unimelb.edu.au
