Urban Discovery Re-Discover PD: Immersion

IMMERSION; the state of being deeply engaged or involved

As educators and practitioners working with children we must look far into the future.

What is necessary? What is essential? What can we do to ensure the best outcomes possible for children now and in the decades that will follow?

These are big questions with many answers. The Immersion PD invites you to engage with a series of experiences, conversations and practitioners in order to activate your own inner compass so that it may guide you in your work with children.

Nestled in the embrace of the tea tree forest, the sandy dunes and the company of others, we will gather together on Boonwurrung/Bunurong Country. Joined by Indigenous Knowledge Holders, artisans and practitioners, together we will explore a range of techniques, practices and questions which will prepare you to take the next steps forward on your journey.

Bring your whole self. Dive in.

What you might discover;

Connection: with your self, with the landscape, with others.

Restoration: of your passions, your inspiration, your purpose

Knowledge: through storytelling, experiential experiences, reflective practices

Relationship: with the natural world, with other educators, with practitioners

Who can come;

Anyone who works with children

What to bring;

Layered clothing for warmth, a journal, curiosity & an open mind.

More information to follow.....

• Artisans

• Practitioners

• Knowledge Holders

Kerri Clarke is a Boon Wurrung, Wemba Wemba woman. Kerri works with communities across South eastern Australia, maintaining and establishing cultural connections for Aboriginal communities, families and children and young people. Kerri is an established Possum Skin Cloak maker having participated in and facilitated the creation and exhibition of many cloaks across the South east of Australia and internationally. Kerri has participated in the revival and making of cultural objects for over 20 years, passing this knowledge onto family members and the next generations. Kerri also has an established career in the Family and Community Services sector having assisted numerous organisations to develop strategies and programs to ensure quality service delivery to meet the needs of Aboriginal communities, families and children.

Molly Mahoney is a Boonwurrung and Barkindji woman.  Molly was born and raised on Latji Latji Country, lived on Wonnarua Country and now resides on the land of the Awabakal people.  Molly descends from a longline of changemakers, activists, community leaders and artists. Molly is a Possum Skin Cloak maker and has participated in the revival and making of cultural objects and items alongside her mother Kerri Clarke and her Aunty Maree Clarke for as long as she can remember. 

Comments from 2025 participants:

What was your favourite experience or moment from today?

"I enjoyed all the day's events, and the key notes offerred opportunity for reflection. I left feeling confident as a professional to give things a go and feel good about what I am capable of. This is something I would like to impart with the children in my kindergarten."

"Having the freedom to join different sessions at any times, not having a rigid schedule to be followed. Having the speakers speak freely and engage on an emotional level."

"Everything from keynote speakers to open workshops including building connections with others."

"Feeling free to move between the fire and the arts and the yarns without fear of judgement or thinking I’m doing the wrong thing."

"All was very valuable. The reflections about Koori perspectives was great and the music with Kat was amazing. Jenn was very thought provoking."

"A great conference! It gave me a chance to stop, reflect and share the day with my team."

Ticket Pricing:

Kookaburra (1st release): $266

Rainbow Lorikeet (2nd release): $299

Powerful Owl (3rd release): $333

Magpie (Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander Educators): $200

Lunch and Morning Tea included