The camp provides a unique opportunity for Indigenous students to interact with and learn from professional artists in an intensive residential setting. In 2006, Indigenous students from Western NSW were invited to take part in one of two camps, one at Kinchega National Park in the State’s far west, and a second camp at Warrumbungle National Park near Coonabarrabran.

The positive outcomes of the camp have been widely recognised by key stakeholders. A number of regional Department of Education and Training offices are seeking to fund and manage future Arts Camps using the ConnectEd Arts camp model.

“On the first day we met the students, most of them were too shy to even say their own name. Three days later they were performing their own songs on stage in front of the whole town. We are so proud of them” Musician

“We had the best time. We got the opportunity to write our own songs, record them onto a cd and then we got to perform our own music in front of a crowd and overcome our fear of shame” Year 9 student – Gilgandra High School

Music was selected as the focus artform for both camps. Exploring the connection between music, Indigenous story telling and cultural knowledge, the intensive five day workshop program aimed to develop students’ interest and knowledge in music making, as well as providing a positive cultural and social experience for the students. The workshops were facilitated by leading Australian musicians, including the Award winning singer song writers, Stiff Gins, renowned musician and composer Paul Jarman (Sirocco), Indigenous Hip Hop group Local Knowledge, and Indigenous pop artist Naomi Wenitong (Shakaya). The Powerhouse Museum’s SoundHouse ran digital music and video production work shops during both camps, and students also had the opportunity to meet and work with local Indigenous artists and cultural ambassadors.

In addition to the artistic, social and cultural benefits for the students, previous camps have also proven to result in exceptional professional development outcomes for participating teachers. The camps are offered free of charge to participating students and teachers.

The first camp will took place at Kinchega National Park, Broken Hill, from 8 – 12 May, servicing students in the far western part of NSW. The second camp took place from 29 May – 2 June at Warrumbungle National Park, Coonabarabran, servicing schools coming from the remaining areas of the Western NSW School Education Area. Each camp site offered unique access to both natural beauty and an Indigenous cultural heritage experience.

For more information, please click on the Related Downloads on the right-hand side of this page.