Warama Workshops

AIM: The aim of the Corroboree workshop is to give students a better understanding of Indigenous Dance. We provide in-depth knowledge of what corroboree is and the importance of corroboree. With over 30 years of collective experience, we teach a multitude of corroboree styles. We teach traditional dance with a modern approach. ACTIVITY: We have a number of activities that are orientated around corroboree. We educate the participants on the background, traditional wear and the instruments that are used as part of our corroboree. We teach the students a generalised/ unique beat according to their skill level. Once the students are able to clap in rhythm to the beat, they are then given the dance moves. Corroboree encourages the students to take pride in indigenous culture.

AIM: The aim of our Didgeridoo workshops is to introduce participants to the traditional art of playing the didgeridoo, fostering an appreciation for Aboriginal culture and musical heritage. ACTIVITY: In our Didgeridoo workshop, you'll learn about the history and cultural significance of this iconic instrument. Our instructor will guide you through basic playing techniques, including breath control and creating different sounds. You'll have the opportunity to practice these skills and explore the unique rhythms of the didgeridoo. The session concludes with a discussion on the cultural importance of the instrument and the role it plays in storytelling and ceremonies.

AIM: The aim of our Artefacts workshop is to provide in-depth knowledge of what artefacts are; their uses; their importance and their cultural significance. The summary of each artefact will be explained in 3 sections: theoretical, practical and cultural. Many of our artefacts are made from locally sourced materials and are created right here in Rockhampton. ACTIVITY: All activities are hands on and are dependent on which artefacts we have present. Activities such as ochre crushing, fire making, boomerang throwing, spear throwing and potentially spear making.

AIM: The aim of our fire-making workshops is to teach people how to start a fire using traditional hand drill and friction methods, helping them connect with nature and learn valuable survival skills. ACTIVITY: In our workshop, you'll learn how to make a fire the old-fashioned way! We'll start by explaining why these techniques are important and how they've been used throughout history. Then, we'll show you how to use a hand drill and friction to create an ember. You'll get hands-on practice with guidance from our instructors. By the end, you'll have a chance to share your experience and thoughts about keeping these skills alive.

AIM: Ochre is essential to Aboriginal people's wellbeing both spiritually and physically and has been a practice passed down through centuries. This workshop is a hands-on experience which teaches clients how ochre is collected, how it turned from rock to powder and how ochre is used for painting up and why it is used. This workshop not only allows clients to see ochre and feel ochre but also gives them the chance to be painted up. This workshop is appropriate for kindergarten aged clients through to adults. ACTIVITY: We provide a hands-on experience with Ochre. The Warama Crew speaks on the importance of Ochre; the cultural significance; the differing colours and the preparation of Ochre for ceremony. The creation of Traditional paint through grinding and crushing ochre is one of our activities. The application of ochre to canvas/ skin is the other activity. Many participants engage well with this workshop.

AIM: In this workshop, participants will be guided through a range of Aboriginal art forms, focusing on the iconic stencil painting and dot painting techniques that are central to Indigenous Australian visual storytelling. Participants will explore the methods and materials used in traditional Indigenous art. Jordan Young, an Indigenous artist, incorporates his deep understanding of the symbolism and techniques that have been used for thousands of years, offering a valuable perspective on how Aboriginal art connects to the land, ancestors, and spirituality. ACTIVITY: In Warama’s Indigenous Art Workshop, you’ll explore traditional Aboriginal art techniques and learn about their cultural significance. You’ll have the opportunity to create your own artwork using methods such as stencil art and dot painting, guided by skilled instructors. Throughout the session, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous storytelling through art and its connection to the land and culture.

AIM: Our Traditional Cooking Workshop is to give our participants a chance to learn how to dig and use a traditional underground oven. Our participants will be given the background, history and science behind why and how it works. Our style of cooking consists of using hot stones, natural insulation and good timing. Such a skill is one that can be taught and, with practice, perfected. Our underground feed can also be used to cook for medium to large amounts of people.

AIM: The aim of the Bush Tucker Workshop is to introduce participants to traditional Indigenous foods, their cultural significance, and their uses on Country. Through hands-on learning, participants gain an understanding of how native plants are identified, harvested, and prepared, while also exploring the knowledge and stories connected to these foods. The workshop encourages cultural appreciation, environmental awareness, and a deeper connection to First Nations knowledge systems. ACTIVITY: Option 1: Show-and-tell with native plants Option 2: Planting bush tucker gardens at school while learning about their uses

AIM The aim of the Spear Throwing Workshop is to provide students with a deeper understanding of traditional Indigenous hunting practices and the cultural significance of spear throwing. The workshop explores how spears were traditionally made, used, and passed down through generations as tools for survival, skill, and cultural knowledge. We teach traditional spear-throwing techniques using a safe, modern approach suitable for all skill levels. ACTIVITY The workshop includes a range of hands-on activities centred around spear throwing. Participants are introduced to the cultural background of spears, including their traditional uses, design, and connection to Country. We demonstrate correct stance, grip, and throwing techniques, adapting instruction to suit the age and ability of the group. Students practise throwing using safe equipment and guided instruction, focusing on coordination, accuracy, and respect for cultural practices. The Spear Throwing Workshop encourages confidence, engagement, and pride in Indigenous culture while promoting learning through active participation.