Regional Government House: Official visit to Bwgcolman Community School

Mayor Lacey Senior; Councillors; Principal, Mr Beresford Dominic; (Bwook-a-mun) Bwgcolman Community School students, staff and supporters.

Thank you most sincerely for your Great Palm Island hospitality this afternoon, we are proud to visit your Shire for the first time.

I at once acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we gather, and pay respect to their Elders past and present – with encouragement to their young emerging leaders.

Kaye and I are honoured to join you today as we continue our fourth annual Regional Government House program, part of my ongoing commitment to be a Governor for all Queenslanders.

As I look around your school, I am proud to see your Indigenous languages, stories, songs, dances and histories continue to live on in your curriculum, and your extra-curricular activities.

Though small in numbers here on Palm Island, yours is a school with a strong sense of the global community, and indeed, the importance of maintaining identity and links to those who came before you.

You are part of a very special community, and you should continue to be proud of your successes and achievements. These are rewarding lessons that will stay with you for the rest of your lives.

And so I congratulate you all on your commitment to your school, your community, and your culture. Please continue to make the most of every opportunity.

Both Kaye and I look forward to touring your shire and meeting more of your community later today.

Once again, thank you for welcoming us so warmly to Great Palm Island.