Each year Loreto Normanhurst develops in our understanding of our First Nations peoples and the cultural and spiritual connections that these peoples have to Country. As we continue to build and develop relationships with our local Indigenous communities, we learn more about the Land on which our school is situated and the richness of the truths of this Land. In consultation with Indigenous Elders of the Guringai Land and other important members of our community, we have chosen to update our Acknowledgement of Country to reflect this Land as Mother, as well as to celebrate and acknowledge the diversity of its landforms, plants and animals and the life-giving strength found within. We have a deep respect for the Elders, Culture, Spirituality and People of this Land.

Loreto Normanhurst Acknowledgement of Country

We pay our respect to this ancient Land that breathed life 300 million years ago. A Land that extends from the ridgeline of the Blue Mountains across the soft sandstone plateau to the coast into the ocean. These ridgelines are the water catchment areas. It’s where the rain hits first and flows down into our rivers and creeks, rejuvenating the earth and filling waterholes and hanging swamps. A Land kissed by rainbows and home to the tall Blue Gums. We acknowledge this Land as mother to possums, lyrebirds, the laughing kookaburra, the tawny frogmouth and brush turkey. We recognise the deep cultural and spiritual connection of this Land to the peoples of this Country, the Guringai and Dharug, and acknowledge their spiritual ancestors. We honour Elders, those past, present and emerging. We pay respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people within our community.  

Mrs Libby Parker

Director of Mission