The Unbroken Spirit of the Kalkadoons (Year 7-12)

Join us for an inspiring and deeply meaningful workshop exploring the story of Colleen Sam, a Kalkadunga (Kalkadoon) artist and storyteller, and the resilience of the Kalkadoon people. Linked to State Library's The unbroken spirit of the Kalkadoons exhibition, 8 March to 24 August 2025 this workshop provides students with a powerful insight into Colleen’s family experiences and the true history of Queensland.

Through striking artworks, personal narratives, and first-hand accounts, students will gain a deeper understanding of frontier violence and its lasting impact on Kalkadoon perspectives and culture in Queensland. This authentic truth-telling experience highlights the unbroken spirit and strength of the Kalkadoon people, inspiring meaningful learning and reflection.

Key Highlights of the workshop 

• Impacts of frontier violence on First Nation’s peoples. 

• Sounds of Country: Explore how the sounds of water, like raindrops and thunder, connect the Kalkadoon people to their land. 

• Connection to Family: Learn about the elders who passed down their knowledge and stories, shaping the strength and identity of the Kalkadoon people. 

• Connection to Country: Discover how Colleen’s art illustrates the deep relationships between people, animals, and the land, and how the Kalkadoon people care for each other and their environment. 

• Inspiration from Ancestors: Reflect on your own family stories, the wisdom shared by your ancestors, and ways we can all contribute to caring for the world around us. 

Important information for teachers: 
This workshop supports the sharing of First Nations perspectives and contains content that some may find confronting or upsetting. Teachers are advised to prepare students accordingly. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that the workshop may include images and names of deceased individuals. 

Workshop notes: 

• This free, 40 minute workshop is open to all schools and will be live-streamed via Microsoft Teams. 
• A Microsoft Teams link will be sent to you upon completion of your booking. 
• Bookings for this workshop close 5 days prior to the event date.

Image credit: Black Cockatoo Dreaming, Colleen Sam (Kalkadoon/Kalkadunga), 2021, acrylic on canvas.