Bowen State School marked a major milestone on Saturday, celebrating its 160th birthday with a day full of pride, nostalgia, and community spirit. The event attracted a large crowd of past and present students, families, and staff, all gathering to honour the school’s rich history.
Among the special guests was Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, a proud past student of the school. He was invited to lead the roll call, reading out the names of past students by decade from the 1930s to the present—an honour that connected generations of Bowen alumni.
One of the day’s most touching moments came during the cake-cutting ceremony. The school’s oldest known past student, Mrs Rogers—who also returned as a long-serving teacher—joined the two youngest current students to cut the commemorative cake.
A vibrant fair ran alongside the official proceedings, and the school hall featured an impressive memorabilia display, showcasing the school's legacy through photographs and artefacts.
The event was a fitting tribute to one of Queensland’s oldest schools and a celebration of its enduring place in the community.