Batchelor Institute recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special event called "Dinner Under the Stars." This event took place on 9th August at the Desert People's Centre in Alice Springs. The night was a time for alumni, students, stakeholders, and community partners to come together, share stories, and celebrate the history of Batchelor Institute.
A Night of Connection and Culture
The event was created to honour the Aboriginal community of Alice Springs and Central Australia. The focus was on helping guests connect with each other and reflect on the 50-year journey of Batchelor Institute.
During the evening, guests enjoyed a small art exhibition showcasing works from Batchelor Institute’s collection. Entertainment was provided by Paul Ah Chee, whose performance added a special touch to the night. There were also poetry readings about the importance of water in the region, which created a calm and thoughtful atmosphere.
Teamwork Behind the Scenes
The success of "Dinner Under the Stars" was due to the hard work and teamwork of many people. Vicki Young and Charlee-Anne Ah Chee played key roles in planning and making sure everything went smoothly. Staff from Batchelor Institute and the Desert People's Centre helped in many ways, such as preparing food, setting up, and cleaning up after the event.
Many people contributed to making the evening a success, including Cheryl Rubuntja, Kathryn Gilbey, Jude Lovell, and others. The Centre for Appropriate Technology (CfAT) also helped by cleaning the area and assisting with set-up on the day of the event.
Reflecting on 50 Years
The event was not only about celebrating the past but also about giving back to the community that has supported Batchelor Institute for so many years. A slideshow of photos from the Institute’s 50-year history played throughout the evening, allowing guests to see and remember the many people and moments that have shaped the Institute.
Looking to the Future
As Batchelor Institute looks to the future, the success of "Dinner Under the Stars" reminds us of the importance of community, working together, and respecting culture. This event was a wonderful way to show the Institute’s commitment to Both-Ways Learning, which combines First Nations knowledge with Western education.
Batchelor Institute remains focused on its mission to blend these two ways of learning, and the 50th anniversary celebrations are just the start of a bright and promising future.
