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A Meaningful Cultural Learning Experience at Believe Early Learning Eaglehawk

📅 3th March 2026 📍 Eaglehawk Centre 🏷 Cultural Learning, Community

Smoking Ceremony at Believe Early Learning Eaglehawk

Recently, our Eaglehawk centre had the privilege of sharing in a deeply meaningful cultural learning experience — a traditional Smoking Ceremony led by Aunty Sandra.

About Aunty Sandra

Aunty Sandra’s family has been a part of the Djarra history for generations. She has recently begun leading Smoking Ceremonies and Welcome to Country ceremonies for organisations and community groups. As a member of the Stolen Generations, Aunty Sandra is deeply passionate about sharing her knowledge and heritage with the community — helping to educate others about the culture, history, and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

What Is a Smoking Ceremony?

A Smoking Ceremony is an important cultural practice used by Aboriginal peoples across Australia. The smoke created from native plants is used to symbolically cleanse a space and bring people together in respect and connection to Country. It is one of the oldest living traditions in the world.

The Ceremony at BEL Eaglehawk
Children and families at the yarning circle Believe Early Learning Eaglehawk
Organising the Smoking Ceremony was something that we at Believe felt strongly about. It was an opportunity for us to show our respect to the Traditional Owners of the land on which we learn and work. We were able to utilise the purpose-built yarning circle in the yard, allowing the children to experience the purpose and significance of this special space. Our Supervisor, Briony Smith, was incredibly fortunate to have a one-on-one conversation with Aunty Sandra, where they shared some of their own experiences. It was truly enriching to listen as she spoke to the children, sharing her stories of history, culture, and connection to Country. Participating in the ceremony and cleansing themselves with the smoke from the fire helped the team feel a deeper connection to the land on which they are teaching and nurturing the next generation.
Mayor Thomas Prince at BEL Eaglehawk Smoking Ceremony
We were also honoured to welcome Thomas Prince, Mayor of Bendigo, who joined our community during the ceremony and shared in this special moment.
Why Cultural Learning Matters in Early Childhood
At Believe Early Learning Eaglehawk, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives are woven into everyday learning. Experiences like these help children develop an early appreciation for culture, community and respect for the history of the land on which we live and learn — in line with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), which recognises children as belonging to culture, community and family.
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Smoking Ceremony at Believe Early Learning Eaglehawk
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We are so grateful to Aunty Sandra for sharing her knowledge, stories and ceremony with our community. We look forward to continuing to create meaningful cultural learning experiences at our Eaglehawk childcare centre in Bendigo.

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