ASEAN–Australia BRIDGE School Partnerships Program: Second Cohort Winning Student Stories Announced

The ASEAN–Australia Centre and Asialink Education are thrilled to announce the winning collaborative stories as part of the First Nations Storytelling Student Workshops of the second cohort of the ASEAN–Australia BRIDGE School Partnerships Program. 

All the stories demonstrated creativity, commitment to cultural understanding, and collaboration across the school partnerships, and we congratulate all the students, alongside their teachers, who have contributed their time, ideas, skills, and enthusiasm.

The Bridge of Two Rivers, by Phonmee Secondary School, Lao PDR, and Our Lady of Good Counsel, Karrinyup (WA)

The Bridge of Two Rivers weaves together the mythological traditions of both nations through the iconic Rainbow Serpent and connections to land, creating a narrative that celebrates how stories grow stronger when shared. This exceptional cross-cultural partnership authentically integrates Australian and Laotian cultures, demonstrating seamless collaboration between both schools throughout the storytelling process. The work beautifully establishes profound links between people and place, extending these connections to forge meaningful bridges between Australian and Laotian communities. With engaging storytelling, creative presentation, and an original supporting video, this story exemplifies how authentic cultural exchange can deepen friendship and mutual understanding across borders.

The Sacred Rock, by Mee Toh School, Singapore, and Alyangula Area School (NT)

The Sacred Rock brings together culturally inspired characters from both Australia and Singapore to explore powerful moral themes, including the Kampong Spirit of familial support and the wisdom of not judging by appearances. Through distinctive animals and landmarks, the story creates vivid connections to both nations whilst celebrating their unique identities. The collaborative effort is evident in how both schools' voices are authentically represented in the presentation, and the creative integration of a recent Singapore crocodile sighting adds contemporary relevance to the narrative. This original and engaging work demonstrates strong collaboration between cultures, inviting audiences to see beyond stereotypes and recognise the shared values that unite diverse communities.

Read The Sacred Rock

Two Pebbles of the Same Boulder, by American University of Phnom Penh High School - Foxcroft Academy, Cambodia, and Mungindi Central School (NSW)

Two Pebbles of the Same Boulder sophisticatedly blends the Australian Dreaming Story of how Marayn (Dingoes) gained their camouflage with the Cambodian tale of Thun Chey, creating a narrative centred on respect and balance between cultures. The story demonstrates authentic attribution to traditional sources and reflects a strong theme of working together harmoniously. Supported by high-quality visuals and clear narration, the work showcases cross-cultural blending at its finest, with the Cambodian and Australian schools contributing distinct yet complementary elements. Whilst the collaboration faced the inherent challenges of online international partnership, the final product reveals thoughtful integration of both traditions and a genuine commitment to honouring the stories and voices of both nations.

Read Two Pebbles of the Same Boulder

The Wild Aussie Outback Quest, by EBC Asumau Remexio, Timor-Leste, and St Mary's Primary Laidley (QLD)

The Wild Aussie Outback Quest celebrates friendship, environmental stewardship, and intercultural awareness through an engaging narrative featuring Australian animal characters and Timorese landmarks. The story's authentic Dreamtime inspiration and bilingual presentation, offered in both English and Tetun, demonstrate a genuine commitment to honouring Timorese language and culture. With clear, accessible storytelling that resonates with young audiences, this work emphasises care for land and community across borders. The collaborative spirit shines through in the bilingual booklet and the shared message of unity, making this an excellent example of how stories can bridge cultures and inspire environmental consciousness.

Read The Wild Aussie Outback Quest

Read Aventura Rai Maran Australia Nian

The ASEAN–Australia BRIDGE School Partnerships Program is an initiative of the ASEAN–Australia Centre and is implemented by Asialink Education (formerly Asia Education Foundation) at the University of Melbourne.