(This paper was presented by Mrs Doreen Jones, Aboriginal teacher aide, at the Wilcannia Nyngan Conference, February 1977.)

I think I was lucky to have been chosen for the teacher aide job in Wilcannia. Before I found out I had the job, I was told the other lady had got it. I was down hearted in a way but thought to myself, “Oh well, it doesn’t matter, I wouldn’t have been able to do the job anyway.” (I found out differently.) Before I knew where I was, I was on the bus for Sydney for training for the job.

The training in Sydney has helped me a great deal. (I am willing to help the teachers with the Aboriginal children in every way I can.) I will never forget my first morning at school. Believe me, I was really very very nervous and I just didn’t know what to do or what I was in for.

On my arrival, I was standing on the opposite side of the office when I noticed one of the lady teachers getting out of her car; she came towards me and gave me a nice big smile (I won’t forget it) and said, “Good morning, how are you this morning?” I answered, and thought to myself, “It’s not as bad as I’m thinking it’s going to be.” Believe me, this teacher made me feel really welcome on my first day.