Aboriginal Tools & Techniques - Cultural Workshop

Feedback collected from the Walla Walla Gum Swamp Cultural Heritage Day regarding what attendees liked about the event:

1. **Informative Content**: Participants found the event to be very informative and interesting, particularly appreciating the detailed presentations on cultural knowledge, craftsmanship, and material usage.

2. **Interactive Elements**: Attendees enjoyed the interactive nature of the event, including hands-on tool-making activities using locally found materials.

3. **Presentation Style**: The informal presentation style was highlighted as engaging and effective, with a good balance of detailed information and practical demonstrations of Indigenous tools and skills.

4. **Accessibility of Representatives**: The presence of the BCT representative was noted positively, with attendees feeling that they were readily accessible for questions and discussions.

5. **Venue and Catering**: The venue was described as amazing, and the catering received high praise, contributing to an enjoyable atmosphere.

6. **Knowledge Sharing**: There was a strong emphasis on the value of knowledge sharing, with participants appreciating the first-hand communication of cultural knowledge and experiences.

7. **Overall Experience**: The event was generally viewed as fantastic, relaxed, and engaging, providing a unique opportunity to learn about Indigenous practices, which many found eye-opening.

This feedback reflects a strong appreciation for both the content and delivery of the event, emphasizing its educational and cultural significance.

What attendees want to learn next after the Walla Walla Gum Swamp Cultural Heritage Day:

1. **Basket Weaving and Plant Identification**: There is a strong interest in learning more about basket weaving and the identification of Indigenous plants.

2. **Cultural Landscape Perspective**: Participants expressed a desire for more information on understanding landscapes through a cultural lens.

3. **Hands-On Experiences**: Many attendees are seeking more hands-on learning opportunities to engage directly with the material.

4. **Bush Foods and Tool Making**: Specific interests include learning about bush foods and wood tool-making techniques.

5. **Cultural Heritage**: Acknowledgment of the importance of cultural heritage sparked interest in exploring this topic further.

6. **Variety of Interests**: Attendees indicated a broad range of interests and desires for more content and details in various areas.

7. **Further Cultural History**: There is a demand for additional information regarding cultural history and practices.

8. **Self-Directed Learning**: Some participants expressed a desire to learn how to apply these skills and knowledge independently.

9. **Conservation**: Interest in conservation-related topics was also mentioned, indicating a desire to connect cultural practices with environmental stewardship.

This feedback highlights a keen interest in deepening knowledge and practical skills related to Indigenous culture, ecology, and conservation.

Suggestions for improving the Walla Walla Gum Swamp Cultural Heritage Day:

1. **Increase Workshop Offerings**: Attendees expressed a desire for more workshops, particularly hands-on sessions related to tool-making and other practical skills.

2. **Clarify Event Expectations**: Some participants noted a misunderstanding from the advertising regarding personal tool-making opportunities. Clearer communication in promotional materials could help set accurate expectations.

3. **Extend Duration**: Many felt the event was so engaging that it could have benefited from a longer duration, allowing for more activities and interactions.

4. **Enhance Hands-On Opportunities**: While the hands-on experiences were appreciated, there is interest in expanding these opportunities to deepen engagement with the material.

5. **Positive Feedback on Catering and Staff**: The catering and staff were praised, suggesting that maintaining or enhancing these aspects would contribute positively to future events.

Overall, the feedback indicates that while the event was well-received, there are opportunities for further engagement and clarity to enhance the experience.