Hyllus Maris
A visionary leader who believed Aboriginal education should be grounded in culture, identity and community.
About Aunty Hyllus
Aunty Hyllus Maris was a Yorta Yorta and Wurundjeri woman, and a leading figure in Aboriginal affairs, education and cultural life. She was an advocate for Aboriginal rights and worked across community organisations, government and the arts to create lasting change.
Throughout her life, she was committed to improving opportunities for Aboriginal people. She played a key role in establishing Aboriginal community controlled services, including the Aboriginal Health Service and Aboriginal Legal Service.
She was also a writer and storyteller, co-writing Women of the Sun, an award winning series that shared the experiences and histories of Aboriginal women.
A Vision For Education
Aunty Hyllus believed that education should reflect culture, identity and community.
Her work in Aboriginal affairs, and her own experiences, showed her that many Aboriginal young people were not being supported to succeed within mainstream systems.
She saw the need for a different approach. One shaped by Aboriginal people, grounded in culture, and responsive to the needs of community.
Creating Worawa
This vision led to the establishment of Worawa Aboriginal College.
Aunty Hyllus brought together community, advocacy and education to create a school designed by and for Aboriginal people. Worawa was established as a place where students could learn in an environment grounded in culture, identity and wellbeing.
Her work in Aboriginal education, including the Green Hills Foundation, helped create the pathways and opportunities that made this vision possible.
A Lasting Legacy
Aunty Hyllus’s legacy is embedded in Worawa today. The College continues to reflect her vision of a culturally grounded education where students develop confidence in who they are and a strong sense of belonging.
As an Aboriginal community controlled organisation, Worawa continues to be guided by the principles she helped establish. Culture, community and Aboriginal leadership remain central to how the College operates and grows.