Aunty Sharralyn Robinson has always enjoyed a special relationship with Bellambi Public School.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But Aunty Shas was nevertheless ecstatic on Tuesday when the school community unveiled a painting of her.
The portrait of Aunty Shas was painted by local artist and teacher, Braden Perry, with the help of Aboriginal students at the school.
Mr Perry donated his time to paint the portrait with the help of Aunty Shas and the Koori students.
Mr Braden previously painted a portrait of Uncle Richard Archibald at the school, to commemorate Uncle Richard's commitment to Bellambi.
"It is wonderful," Aunty Shas told the Mercury.
"I knew they had engaged an artist to do a portrait of me but when they pulled the cover off it today, I was just blown away. He is a brilliant artist. It is just amazing.
"The school kids are wonderful, as is their principal Michelle [Sotiros] and the staff."
The feeling was mutual with Bellambi Public School principal Michelle Sotiros saying that Aunty Shas was highly regarded at the school and throughout the Illawarra.
"Aunty Shas is well known and highly respected in our community," Ms Sotiros said.
"She is able to engage young and old alike, and bring people together to share her culture with all peoples."
Sharon Hanlon, the school's Aboriginal Education Officer, said Aboriginal elders like Aunty Shas were deeply committed to sharing their knowledge, providing guidance, teaching others, and connecting to their communities.
She said Aunty Shas has been involved in Bellambi Public School activities for over nine years, leading the annual Walk for Reconciliation, working with students on a regular basis, supporting the school in Aboriginal culture immersion days, and frequently working with children including reading and talking about local dreaming stories.
"Aunty Shas loves to spend time with our students and staff sharing her knowledge," Ms Hanlon said.
"When the students see Aunty Shas come in to the school they are so excited.
'You can see how much she means to them and how much they value what she brings and teaches them about Aboriginal culture.
"Aunty Shas' connection to our community and school is one of leadership, knowledge, love of children, culture and respect."
We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.
Sign up for breaking news emails below ...
Agron Latifi
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
