Goondoi Junior Rangers’ cultural exchange to Japan
Photo by Phisch Creative
Story created by Goondoi Aboriginal Corporation and Radiant Life College.
Connecting Worlds: Goondoi Junior Rangers’ Cultural Exchange to Japan
In September, the Goondoi Arts Aboriginal Corporation’s Junior Ranger Program and Radiant Life College took an important step towards fostering cross-cultural understanding and exchange. This initiative captured the imaginations of young minds as the junior rangers and students embarked on a journey to Japan. The trip not only showcased the rich cultural heritage and environmental stewardship of the Dyirribarra/Bagirbarra community but also provided invaluable learning experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).
Magnus Edwards at Ikebukuro Station. Photo Credit: Phisch Creative.
A Journey of Cultural Exchange and Learning
Their unique experience began with visits to Sendai and Tokyo. They had the opportunity to explore the innovative world of Google Japan, gaining insights into cutting-edge technology and innovation. Their itinerary also included visits to the TeamLab Borderless Digital Art Museum and Samsung Galaxy Harajuku, where they engaged with virtual reality, 4D theaters, and immersive art experiences that blended technology and creativity. These moments inspired and educated the young rangers and students, highlighting how art and technology intersect in modern Japan.
Goondoi Rangers and Radiant Life College students and staff at Google Japan. Photo Credit: Phisch Creative.
Showcasing Dyirribarra/Bagirbarra Culture on the Global Stage
One of the trip’s highlights was the performances by students, who shared their cultural stories, music, and dances at various events. This exchange promoted the Goondoi Caring for Country programs and emphasised their unique connection to the Great Barrier Reef. The experience fostered mutual understanding and appreciation between the young rangers and their Japanese hosts, creating lasting bonds and shared knowledge.
The journey began weeks before in Brisbane, where the junior rangers met with government representatives to discuss the significance of their cultural exchange. The Goondoi rangers shared insights from their various Healthy Water Projects and their Strong Peoples-Strong Country Project, initiatives funded by the Great Barrier Reef Foundation that underscore their commitment to caring for Country.
Manatsu Ishida, Business Development Officer at Trade and Investment Queensland. Photo Credit: Phisch Creative.
A Vision for Future Exchanges
From the pristine Dyirribarra/Bagirbarra Country on the Cassowary Coast to the technological heights of Tokyo, this cultural exchange marked the beginning of what is hoped to be a series of international collaborations for the Goondoi Rangers and Radiant Life College. As expressed by Radiant Life College principal Nathaniel Edwards: “These experiences are designed to broaden the junior rangers’ understanding of global perspectives on what environmental custodianship and cultural heritage looks like for other nations and peoples around the world.”
By embracing opportunities to learn and share, the junior rangers became ambassadors for their culture and active participants in global conversations on sustainability and cultural preservation. It is hoped that this trip to Japan was just the beginning, paving the way for future initiatives that will continue to build bridges between communities and foster a deeper appreciation for our shared world.
Goondoi Rangers, Radiant Life College students and staff at the Australian Embassy in Tokyo Japan with the members of the Japan Office Trade and Investment Queensland. Photo Credit: Phisch Creative.
Our Reef Stories acknowledges and pays respect to past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this website may contain images or names of people who have passed away.
