Blake, a year 12 student at Inverell High, was one of two guest speakers at the presentation.

As part of his occasional address, Blake, a non-Indigenous student, performed a rap song that comprises part of the major work he prepared in Aboriginal Studies for the Higher School Certificate.

“It’s a rap song about the history of Inverell from an indigenous perspective,” Blake said.

It was his major work for Indigenous Studies.

His teacher Cath Jeffery said it was the first time the subject has been taught in Inverell and said Blake’s song was the major component of the course.

“It symbolises how the Education Department is embracing cultural studies,” Mrs Jeffery said about the subject.

The Indigenous Studies subject looked into key areas, such as health and criminal justice, she said.

Yesterday’s Giyanha Dirrubuu Murri Awards, which translate from the local Gamilaraay language as “future outstanding Aboriginal”, acknowledged a wide range of achievements by students, staff and schools from across the New England Region.