Community

FIRE Carriers Program

At Padua College, our FIRE Carriers (Friends Igniting Reconciliation through Education) play a central role in shaping the culture and spirit of our school.

More than just a program, the FIRE Carrier initiative reflects Padua’s deep commitment to community, inclusion, visibility, and authentic connection.

It's about creating an environment where every student feels a genuine sense of belonging, and where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures are seen, valued, and woven into daily life.

Through their leadership, FIRE Carriers help bring our College values to life. Building understanding through shared learning, guiding cultural events and ceremonies, and strengthening ties with our local Aboriginal communities. Their work is grounded in the belief that education is not only about knowledge, but about identity, empathy, and connection. By nurturing these qualities, Padua College continues to grow as a place where diversity is celebrated, relationships are valued, and all students are encouraged to lead with respect and purpose.

Across Victoria, FIRE Carrier Schools are part of a network committed to embedding First Nations perspectives and cultural presence in all aspects of school life — not just as an add-on, but as a fundamental dimension of identity, relationships, and community.

Being a FIRE Carrier has deepened my understanding of Indigenous culture and strengthened my commitment to reconciliation. It’s more than a leadership role; it’s a chance to honour truth, show respect, and create meaningful change within our school community. One of my proudest achievements was helping organise events that celebrate Indigenous voices and bring people together

Millie Smith, FIRE Carrier Captain

Koorie Youth Mentoring

The Koorie Youth Mentoring Program at Padua College also offers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a safe and supportive space to explore identity, culture, and community. Through mentoring, hands-on cultural activities, and partnerships with local Elders, the program empowers students to strengthen their connection to Country, celebrate their heritage, and build confidence as young leaders within the school and beyond.

campus yarn circles

Created to strengthen community and belonging, our Campus Yarning Circles offer students a meaningful space to connect, listen, and reflect.

These gathering places honour the deep cultural history of this land, strengthen our connection to Country, and offer students an inclusive environment to share stories and learn from one another.

The Yarn Circle and Gathering Place at our Mornington Campus has been thoughtfully created in collaboration with our Koorie students, FIRE Carrier students, and supported by our Hands on Learning students, to reflect the voices, stories, and knowledge of our community.

The artwork featured within the space was designed by alumni Indigenous artist Holly Ryan, with cultural consultation and guidance from Living Culture. Their involvement ensures the space remains grounded in authenticity and cultural integrity.

As we continue construction of a Yarn Circles at our Tyabb and Rosebud Campuses, our vision is to establish a dedicated gathering place at each campus. These spaces will continue to honour the history of this land and provide students with opportunities to yarn, listen, and feel connected to one another.

cultural immersion

Padua College offers an annual cultural immersion experience in Central Australia. This program provides senior students with the opportunity to learn on Country, engage with the landscapes, and deepen their understanding of the histories, cultures, and lived experiences of Australia’s First Nations peoples through guided walks, shared stories, and time spent in community.

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FIRE Carriers Program

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FIRE Carriers Program

Catholic Primary School Partners

Liverpool FC IA Partnership