11 September 2024
It’s usually a cause of concern when any emergency services show up to a school. But that was certainly not the case when they appeared recently at Eaton Community College (ECC).
Emergency services workers attend the school each year for a tag rugby game against the students.
Eaton Community College students played tag rugby against emergency services.
The game aims to foster strong connections between the school and the wider community and is held as a part of NAIDOC Week celebrations.
Students took on a team comprising of members of the WA Country Health Service Aboriginal Mental Health Team, South West District – WA Police Force, South West Aboriginal Medical Service, and St John Ambulance.
The game also offers a rare chance for students to engage and familiarise themselves with these professionals outside of their usual roles, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. In a close contest, the Emergency Services team emerged victorious, clinching the win 7-5.
“It opens that door; they see a familiar face. When they walk in, they see me: “Shayne, how are ya going?” Shayne Taylor of the WA Country Health Service told 7News.
Emergency services workers attend the school each year for the game.
“I guess it breaks that barrier and also that stigma with myself and mental health.”
Other activities held this year, the fourth holding of the event, included the sharing of kangaroo stew and damper, as well as ECC’s Remote OpShop Project. The OpShop Project saw students from the school’s Year 12 Children, Family and Community class collect, sort and wash donations of pre-loved clothing, towels, blankets and sheets to be posted to remote WA Aboriginal communities to create their own independent locally-run OpShops.
Watch 7News’ report on the game on Facebook.