Aboriginal Tools & Techniques - Cultural Workshop

Summary of Feedback: Mungabareena Cultural Workshop - Albury

The feedback for the Mungabareena Cultural Workshop was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting several key aspects:

1. Presenters and Teaching:

• The presenters were consistently praised for their skill, approachability, and clarity.
• Specific mentions included Shane and Ruth’s workshop, with multiple attendees rating presenters as "10/10."

2. Cultural Knowledge Sharing:

• Attendees valued learning about Indigenous culture, including language, rope and tool making, and didgeridoo music.
• The cultural sharing aspect, such as learning how to care for and respect country, was deeply appreciated.

3. Atmosphere and Social Interaction:

• The event fostered a strong sense of community, with participants noting its friendly, inclusive, and social vibe.
• Many appreciated the opportunity to connect with others while learning in a relaxed, informal setting.

4. Organisation and Setting:

• The workshop was described as well-organized, with a great atmosphere and a perfect outdoor venue.
• The beautiful weather and natural setting enhanced the experience, though flies were noted as a minor inconvenience.

5. Food:

• The quality of the food received high praise, with many attendees specifically mentioning it as a highlight.

6. Engagement and Activities:

• Hands-on activities like making rope and tools were highly engaging and considered an excellent way to learn.
• Participants valued the interactive nature of the workshop.

Overall Impressions:

• Many attendees expressed that they enjoyed "everything" about the event, and some were eager for more workshops in the future.
• The event was seen as informative, inclusive, and community-strengthening.

Areas for Improvement:

• The only recurring complaint was about flies, though this did not overshadow the overall positive experience.

Summary of Feedback: Future Learning Interests – Mungabareena Cultural Workshop

The attendees expressed a strong interest in continuing their cultural education, with specific areas of focus including:

1. Cultural and Historical Knowledge:

• Expanded understanding of Indigenous culture, including more on recent and historical aspects of Aboriginal history.
• Interest in deeper cultural insights, including walking Country and connection to land.

2. Language:

• Strong demand for further language learning, with multiple attendees keen to build on their existing knowledge and develop new language skills.

3. Practical Skills and Knowledge:

• Requests for learning about Indigenous food preparation and cooking methods.
• Interest in bush plants, traditional medicine, and using plants for health and wellbeing.
• Crafting skills such as making Indigenous face paint.

4. Networking and Community Building:

• Desire for more networking opportunities with Indigenous locals to strengthen community ties and learning.

5. General Interest in Learning:

• Some attendees expressed a willingness to learn "anything and everything" available, reflecting their enthusiasm for diverse learning topics.

6. Continuity and Growth:

• Requests for more cultural days to continue learning and expanding on current knowledge, including both language and creative skills.

Overall, participants are eager to deepen their understanding and practical application of Indigenous culture, language, and history in future workshops.

Summary of Feedback: General Impressions – Mungabareena Cultural Workshop

The feedback for the workshop emphasized the following key themes:

1. Desire for More Events:

• Strong consensus on the importance of holding regular cultural events, with attendees noting their value in fostering motivation for biodiversity conservation and cultural understanding.

2. Overall Event Success:

• The event was described as "fantastic" and "great" by many, with attendees appreciating its engaging, fun, and informative nature.

3. Organisation and Hospitality:

• The workshop was praised for its smooth organisation, from the clear and efficient registration process to the well-planned activities on the day.
• Attendees appreciated the thoughtful touches, such as the provision of comfortable camping chairs for elders.

4. Presenters and Activities:

• The presenters were highly commended for their teaching skills and cultural knowledge sharing.
• Specific activities like didgeridoo playing, tool making, and language workshops were highlighted as excellent.

5. Food and Atmosphere:

• The food was a standout, with many describing it as "absolutely fabulous" and "delicious."
• The friendly, welcoming atmosphere added to the overall positive experience.

6. Gratitude and Cultural Appreciation:

• Attendees expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to participate and learn about Indigenous culture. Phrases like "Mandang gu" (thank you) were used to convey gratitude.

Suggestions for Future Events:

• A call for “more of everything” and regular events to continue the momentum and impact of this cultural engagement.

Overall, the workshop was a resounding success, with participants eager for more similar opportunities in the future.