Kaarak and Marri Tree Project — Bassendean Primary School

The Bassendean Primary School developed a year-long learning program for all students from kindy to year 6, alongside class teachers. The Marri Tree Project saw a unique collaboration between the students, local Indigenous artists and performing artists in consultation with local Elders.

The project focused on the school’s historic Marri Tree and its importance as an environment for the Karrack (Red Tailed Black Cockatoo). The students also learnt of the 6 Noongar seasons and painted a mural on the school grounds that reflected the changes across these seasons 

The arts learning program culminated in a twilight performance involving every student at the end of the year. The partnerships between Indigenous and non-indigenous artists enabled cross cultural learning, understanding and awareness to make this a richer experience for students and artists.