Founded in 1863 Coranderrk was established as a last refuge for the people from the tribes of the Kulin Nation of Central Victoria, Boonwurrung, Taungwurrung, Djadjawurrung, Wathawurrung and the Woiwurrung (Yarra Yarra). The Coranderrk Children’s Dormitory housed up to 34 Aboriginal and “mixed race” children who were orphaned or deemed to be neglected. It consisted of a schoolroom and six dormitories. School was held for one hour per day and formal education stopped at grade three level.
The boys were taught to be farm labourers and the girls to be domestic servants. Once the young people reached the age of 15 they were compelled to leave and find a job away from family and community. Many children were disconnected from their families and never re-united. The harsh conditions of Coranderrk Station saw the deaths of many children through illness. The Dormitory closed in 1924.
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Worawa Aboriginal College officially opened in 1983. ‘Worawa’ is an Aboriginal word for eagle. The eagle being of great significance in Aboriginal culture and a symbol of the tremendous potential. Extensive consultation went into developing a curriculum that balanced Aboriginal culture with the very best of western education. Initially co-ed, the first students were from families who supported the concept of an all Aboriginal student.
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Copyright – 2014 Dept. of Premier and Cabinet