A SMALL group of eager students are learning about the language and culture of the Wiradyuri people.
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For the second year, TAFE NSW has offered people in Bathurst the opportunity to learn the language through its Certificate I in Fundamental Language for Personal Use.
The course is being led by Aunty Iris Reid, who not only teaches the language, but engages students in cultural and craft activities to help them learn more about the history.
"It's not just all language," she said.
"It is a fun lesson. If it was serious I don't think that they would come back."
Aunty Iris has worked with people of all ages and backgrounds to help them learn the language.
She even once taught a 91-year-old non-Aboriginal man who wanted to learn.
"He could not read because of his eyes, he could not write, but he could listen and his speech would come out just the way I wanted," Aunty Iris said.
When asked if the language was difficult to learn, Aunty Iris said that it depended on teaching style.
Her preference is to work slowly and break words up until people are able to speak them. She is always happy to spend more time with people who need extra help.
"Like anything, you take your time and then you'll learn it," she said.
The course in Bathurst takes 12 months to complete and sessions take place in the afternoon and evening.
At the end of the course, students will graduate and receive official certificates.
Aunty Iris is pleased that TAFE has introduced the course, saying it ensures the stories and language of the Wiradyuri culture are passed on.
"It will help to keep the culture alive, especially the language," she said.
"People said it died, but it didn't, it was asleep and we are revitalising it."
The course is set to run again later this year, with enrolments expected to be available in June for semester two.
Enrolment is available to both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, with cost exemptions for non-Aboriginal students.
Anyone who would like to find out more about the course can contact TAFE NSW on 13 16 01.
