Bowen State High School came alive with colour, culture, and community spirit on Friday, the 18th of July, as students, staff, families and community partners gathered to celebrate NAIDOC Week.
The day began with a heartfelt Welcome to Country and traditional smoking ceremony, led by Juru Elder Uncle Jimmy Gaston and accompanied by traditional Aboriginal dancers. Student representatives proudly raised the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags in a special flag-raising ceremony.
To commemorate 50 Years of NAIDOC, the school also introduced its inaugural academic and citizenship awards, named in honour of the late Aunty Cecelia Upkett and Mr Darryl Paul — two cherished figures who played significant cultural roles within the school community.
Principal Robert Harris welcomed all attendees, acknowledging the strength of community partnerships and the school’s ongoing support for First Nations students.
“Bowen State High School is about empowering students to realise their full potential, including nurturing the next generation to flourish and thrive and to be the Elders of tomorrow,” Mr Harris said.
“We do this by providing high quality teaching and learning, a culturally safe, respectful and responsible environment and leaning into our vision to strengthening relationships with First Nations students, families and communities.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins attended the event and praised the school’s leadership.
“Congratulations to Mr Harris and the Bowen SHS team for putting on such a meaningful event and continuing to champion reconciliation and equity in our community,” he said.
The celebration featured hands-on cultural activities, including palm frond weaving, traditional games, Indigenous arts and crafts, and a traditional Kup Muri feast, complete with meats, vegetables, damper, and a specially made NAIDOC cake.
The celebration holds a special place on the school calendar, with the entire day dedicated to reflection, celebration, and unity.
“The celebration is an important event on the school calendar. Bowen High dedicates an entire school day for celebration, reflection and an opportunity to come together as one to honour the enduring strength and spirit of First Nations culture,” Mr Harris said.
The 2025 NAIDOC Week celebrations were made possible through support from the National Indigenous Australian Agency, North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation, Pacific National, AURIZON, Bowen Meat Supplies, and members of the Juru Elders and First Nations families.
Staff and students of Bowen State High School enjoyed a wonderful NAIDOC celebration last week (Photo Supplied)
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