This morning the Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, sought to heal the hurt caused by past decades of state-sponsored ill-treatment of all indigenous Australians by declaring an apology.

"For the pain, suffering and hurt, we say sorry."

This historic occasion was recognised right here at home, by students and teaching staff of the central and far west of NSW.Bathurst High Campus

Students, Principals, teachers, School Captains and Prefects, together with members of school communities, joined as one to rejoice and take great pride in today's apology.

At Bathurst High Campus of Denison College of Secondary Education, one of the schools attended by Girri Girri Academy Members, the significance of today's apology was universally recognised.

Key non-indigenous Australians who attended the ceremony included Ms Kathy Compton, Principal, Denison College of Secondary Education, the School Executive of Bathurst High School, teachers, School Captains, several hundred school students and members of the local community.

Denise Taylor, Girri Girri Academy Member, commenced proceedings with a Welcome to Country.

The School Captains of Bathurst High Campus spoke of the importance of today as a significant day in history.

Jenny Stirling, Acting Campus Principal, recognised Sorry Day and invited Bernadette Wood, Teacher, to the microphone, to speak to all those in attendance on behalf of non-indigenous Australians. Bernadette Wood

Bernadette spoke from her mind, as well as her heart, as she backed the apology given by our Prime Minister.

Indigenous students carried the Aboriginal Flag to the flag pole and raised it over the gathered assembly. Looking up at the Aboriginal flag

Following the ceremony indigenous participants were invited to meet with School leaders for morning tea.