Tranby is Australia's oldest independent Aboriginal education provider.

Over the years, Tranby students and staff have struggled together for the right to pursue independence and self-determination in education for Aboriginal people, education on our own terms, according to our communities’ needs and aspirations. We have paved the way for courses to be developed by our Elders, according to criteria that remain spiritually, culturally and educationally Aboriginal.

I loved tuning in on a Tuesday to see Judy and go down rabbit holes around legislation and how it applies. But mostly, I loved connecting with everyone and hearing their perspectives and experiences with land claims and native title. It was most definitely a reflection of Tranby feeling like family.

Tranby’s been a big part of my family story for many years. I went to Tranby where my family went and I studied with my son, who reminded me to reach out, like you always said. I want to thank you for believing in me and pushing me to get those final assessments over the line. I am considering that it might be time to take that and try Uni. Also, the group conversations, I loved the group and Uncle Dion the way you did that was culturally safe, if we’re going to use that terminology, you made it safe and welcoming.

You guys have given me the confidence to believe in myself. I want to give back to my community and without the support and encouragement from you guys, I wouldn’t have succeeded and I would have just dropped out and I wouldn’t be going back to Uni. So, I sincerely thank you all, the whole team each and every one of you.

I work at the Neighbourhood Centre in Kempsey and I can tell you this course really has made me open my eyes in how I approach clients and helps me reflect on my mindset, and even understanding why I am the way I am too. It's a very profound experience I didn't realise I would get from doing this course, which is a good thing.