Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Programs

Celebrating culture • Strengthening identity • Walking together

Elder-in-Residence: Uncle Lann Levinge (Kombumerri)

Uncle Lann Levinge is our Elder-in-Residence and a respected Kombumerri Elder of the Yugambeh language region. He walks alongside our students, staff and families—guiding our community with cultural knowledge, care and quiet strength.

As Elder-in-Residence, Uncle Lann:

• Provides cultural guidance and protocols for school life and events, including Welcomes to Country and ceremonies.
• He mentors students and staff, offering wisdom through yarning, story and on-Country perspectives.
• Supports our First Nations programs—especially C'Bah Muggera—across dance, didgeridoo, and men's/women's business activities.
• Helps us celebrate key moments such as Reconciliation Day, NAIDOC, Celebration of Cultures, Harmony Day and community gatherings.
• Strengthens connections between school, families and Elders, nurturing pride, belonging and wellbeing.

Uncle Lann's presence reminds us that learning is relational: to each other, to Country and to culture. His leadership deepens how we understand respect, responsibility and community, and it inspires our students—First Nations and non-Indigenous—to walk with integrity and purpose.

C'Bah Muggera – Celebrating Culture, Empowering Youth

C'Bah Muggera is the heart of our school's cultural celebration—a vibrant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance and didgeridoo performance group that honours the living traditions of First Nations peoples. More than a performance troupe, C'Bah Muggera is a cultural movement within our school that nurtures pride, identity, and community connection among our Indigenous students.

Guided by respected Kombumerri Elders and cultural mentors, students engage in traditional dance, storytelling, and music, art and sharing their culture with peers, staff, and the broader community at events such as NAIDOC Week, the Swell Sculpture Festival, and international student welcome ceremonies. These performances are not just artistic showcases—they are acts of cultural transmission, pride, and resilience.

Men's Business

Under the C'Bah Muggera banner, Men's Business offers young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men a sacred and supportive space to connect with cultural traditions. Through yarning circles, didgeridoo practice, and Elder-guided discussions, students explore themes of identity, leadership, and purpose. This group cultivates a sense of belonging and supports social and emotional wellbeing, grounded in cultural strength.

Women's Business

Women's Business within C'Bah Muggera provides a culturally safe environment where young women are empowered through traditional arts including dance, drama, weaving, painting, and craft. These activities foster self-expression, resilience, and connection to Country. Shared storytelling and mentoring build strong intergenerational links, instilling confidence and pride in their heritage.

Unity and Reconciliation

Through its involvement in the Celebration of Cultures and collaborations with local community artists, C'Bah Muggera stands as a symbol of unity and reconciliation. Students from all backgrounds are encouraged to learn from and with each other, making our school a place where diversity is honoured and cultural learning is a shared journey.

C'Bah Muggera is more than a group—it is a legacy of culture, pride, and community spirit. It empowers our students to walk proudly in two worlds, carrying forward the wisdom of the past into a bright future.

QATSIF Scholarships (Years 11–12)

QATSIF supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to finish Year 12 and step into university, training or work. At Coombabah SHS, our applicants are regularly successful.

Why it matters

• Eases costs (uniforms, subject fees, transport, resources)
• Lifts attendance, participation and QCE completion
• Recognises cultural contribution and leadership

What successful applicants show

• Strong attendance and effort
• Positive behaviour and school values
• Active cultural engagement (e.g., NAIDOC, C'Bah Muggera)
• Clear post-school goals

Who can apply

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students entering Year 11 or 12 with school endorsement.

How we help

• Info sessions and timelines
• Coaching for statements, evidence and referees
• Regular check-ins with the First Nations team

Interested? Contact our First Nations team for dates, documents and next steps.

Our Support Programs and Leadership

• Cultural Liaison Officer
• Elder in Residence
• QATSIF
• EALD

Cultural Liaison Officer

Our Cultural Liaison Officer brings all cultures together at Coombabah SHS by leading whole-school celebrations and cultural festivals, coordinating workshops and performances, and building relationships with community organisations and Elders. The role promotes cultural harmony and friendship across our campus, supports students with cultural connection, wellbeing and engagement, and advises staff on culturally safe practice—so every young person feels respected, included and proud of who they are.

EAL/D Team (Future)

Our EAL/D (English as an Additional Language or Dialect) team supports students whose first language is not English to thrive and be successful at school. We assess language proficiency (bandscaling), set clear goals, and provide targeted support. The team collaborates with teachers to scaffold curriculum, monitor progress, and prepare students for assessments, while also helping families with translated information, interpreter access, and smooth school–home communication. We celebrate multilingual identities, promote culturally safe classrooms, and ensure every learner can participate, progress and feel proud of their language and culture.

Want to learn more?

If you would like to learn more about our First Nations programs, cultural workshops or C'Bah Muggera, please contact the school's First Nations team.