I’m grateful to have gone on the Brewarrina mission trip for 2022, it was a great opportunity to learn and develop an understanding of people and communities both similar and different to those we are used to. While in Brewarrina we met Isaac Gordon who was an inspiring pastor and leader in the Brewarrina community, he welcomed us to their community and into their church family. On the Sunday that we were there they welcomed us into 2 church services and encouraged to share our testimonies. In the first few days we went to the Aboriginal Cultural Museum in Brewarrina and learnt about local history and the famous fish traps. We learnt that it may be one of if not the oldest man-made structures in the world.

The highlight for me would have had to be meeting Josie and Vera in Weilmoringle as they were the two sweetest old ladies who really showed what community was. I had a few interesting discussions with Josie and learned about her experiences in school and how different life was like for an Aboriginal person in that era. She also spoke of how there was division amongst some of their own people when it came to rights and inclusion in society. Josie and Vera then took us to an old shearing shed in Weilmoringle which everyone was quick to rush into.

Some other highlights were the hot bore baths, talking around the fire at night, visiting the Brewarrina Christian School, going to Gulargambone and meeting Pastor Henry as well as visiting Hickey’s falls. Pastor Henry shared some of his life stories which were very engaging.

I would highly recommend this trip for anyone thinking about going in the future, it was great to get some perspective and to meet new people. I’ve come to realise how lucky I am here on the Central Coast and to have a supportive school and family that are there and want the best for me.

By Isaiah F (Year 9) 

Student Contributions in The Messenger