Welcoming Our Residents to Country

Embracing Culture and Community through Welcome to Country Ceremonies

Moving into Deakin Res is about more than settling into your new room - it’s about becoming part of a diverse and inclusive community. To mark this important step, residents are invited to a Welcome to Country ceremony. This powerful tradition, led by Traditional Custodians at both our Geelong and Burwood campuses, extends a warm welcome to newcomers and is a way of showing respect for the history of the land, recognising its deep cultural roots, and setting the tone for an inclusive and connected experience at Res.

By incorporating this event into our Orientation programming, Deakin Res aims to create a shared opportunity for students to reflect on their new environment, recognise their role in fostering a supportive and respectful community, and develop an appreciation for the space and land they now call home, regardless of their background, culture, or religion. It also serves as a reminder that their newfound community is enriched by embracing the knowledge and traditions of both First Nations Peoples and indeed every culture represented within our community.

In Geelong, residents got to experience a Welcome to Country from Wadawurrung woman Melinda Kennedy. As the scent of eucalyptus smoke drifted through the crowd, she shared stories of her ancestors and spoke about the importance of looking after Wadawurrung land while living on campus. It was a moment of learning, reflection, and connection that sets the stage for the rest of Orientation and beyond.

Sam Johnstone, our Geelong General Manager, summed it up perfectly:

“Deakin Res is more than just a place to stay—it’s a home. And part of that is learning about and respecting the land we live on. Having the chance to hear from First Nations leaders like Melinda helps our residents feel more connected—not just to each other, but to the history and culture of this place.”

As Sam mentions, this event is more than just a symbolic gesture—it serves as a catalyst for connection, helping students who arrive at Deakin Res with a mix of excitement and uncertainty to come together in a shared moment, and meet fellow residents and staff in a welcoming atmosphere.

As regardless of whether you’ve moved from around the corner or across the world, this is a community where everyone belongs. Throughout the year, we run events, workshops, and discussions that help residents learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures—things like Indigenous art showcases, storytelling nights, and cultural awareness programs.

Ultimately, our goal is to make sure every student feels at home. Acknowledging the history of the land we live on is a big part of that. By embracing culture, respect, and inclusion, we’re not just building a great place to live—we’re building a community where everyone is welcome, heard, and valued.

So as students settle into life at Deakin Res, they know that they’re part of something bigger—a place that celebrates diversity, fosters connections, and creates lifelong memories. Welcome to Deakin Res!