Principal’s Blog 

NAIDOC WEEK at Holy Cross College 
50 Years Deadly 
 
Last week, our Holy Cross College community came together to celebrate NAIDOC Week. It was a time of deep reflection, learning and celebration. The 2026 theme, ’50 Years of Deadly,’ marks a powerful milestone, recognising five decades of celebrating the strength, pride and cultural leadership of First Nations communities. 

A Living Expression of Who We Are 

At Holy Cross, our connection to First Nations culture is part of our foundation. 

This is most clearly seen in our College logo. At its heart is the cross, and within it, the shape of a coolamon — a traditional Aboriginal vessel used to carry water, food and to cradle life. 

The choice to embed the coolamon into our logo is deliberate. It reflects our identity as a community that carries and nurtures each young person, while remaining deeply connected to the land and the cultural heritage of Ellenbrook. It reminds us that culture is not something we observe from a distance, it is something we hold with care and responsibility. 

During NAIDOC Week, this became more than symbolism. 

As a community, we walked together through our Ngala Maya Yarning Circle as part of a smoking ceremony to begin our liturgy. Led by Aboriginal artist and Cultural Adviser, Justin Martin and his family, it was a powerful and humbling experience. To witness every student and staff member move through this space with reverence and respect was deeply inspiring. In that moment, we were not just acknowledging culture, we were living our story as Holy Cross College. 

Education and Connection 

Education plays a vital role in building understanding and connection with First Nations communities. Our Deadly Doors competition in the Junior School (and voted on by the Middle and Senior School) enabled our community to join together in a fun competitive spirit and celebrate the gifts and talents of our community.   

Catholic Education Western Australia calls all schools to strengthen these relationships, ensuring that every student engages meaningfully with First Nations histories and cultures while building culturally competent communities. 

This work is essential. It is through education that we develop respect, and through respect that we form genuine and lasting relationships. 

Looking to the Future 

NAIDOC Week also calls us to look forward. 

Our students will shape the next chapter of this story. The experiences they have now, walking together in ceremony, learning in our classrooms, and engaging with culture and language, will influence how they lead, connect and contribute in the future. 

The theme ’50 Years of Deadly’ reminds us that the next 50 years will be shaped by young people who are proud, informed and committed to building stronger connections across our nation. 

This week has been a celebration of culture, community and shared responsibility. 

We honour the past, we engage in the present, and we look with hope to the future. 

At Holy Cross College, we are proud to walk this journey together. 

50 Years of Deadly — Life to the Full! 

Mr Albert Borrello 
Principal