Regional Government House: Official visit to Western Cape College

Weipa Town Authority Chair, Mr Michael Rowland; Principal, Mr Noel Rawlins; Western Cape College students, staff and supporters; Northern Peninsula Area College students; school leaders.

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. Thank you, Natasha, your meaningful welcome was so well expressed.

Kaye and I are honoured to join you this morning as we continue the Regional Government House program for the fourth time.

This year we bring our operations, which are usually based in Brisbane, to Weipa – or as I am reliably informed, ‘The Capital of the Cape’ – as part of my ongoing commitment to be a Governor for all Queenslanders.

One of the highlights of this program is visiting educational institutions – in this case your college – and meeting our State’s next generation of leaders. 

And I must say, it was wonderful to see the Governor’s Standard flying proudly over your college grounds today.

Students, I thank you for your Welcome to Country, delivered so impressively. It is particularly poignant as we gather here today for your NAIDOC assembly under the theme, Because of Her, We Can!

Built on mining, fishing and defence, Weipa’s proud Indigenous culture continues to flourish.

Similarly, NAIDOC Week has continued to prosper since its launch in 1975, and celebrations are now a fixture at schools around Queensland, and indeed the rest of Australia.

This year we acknowledge, importantly, Indigenous women who so often provide the way forward.

The NAIDOC concept celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

While there is a dedicated date for this on the Australian calendar, I am proud to hear that it is part of the very fabric of Western Cape College, through its curriculum and extra-curricular activities inside and outside the classroom.

Speaking of outside, I am told of a football game this afternoon – Bamaga Boys against Western Cape – may the better team win! I hope you all enjoy your friendly rivalry.

And so, boys and girls, I congratulate you all on your commitment to your college, your community, and your culture.

Your time here at Western Cape College will forge friendships which will last a lifetime. Please continue to make the most of every opportunity.

I look forward to touring your campus and its facilities later this morning, before visiting some of the major industries in your town.

Once again, thank you for welcoming us so warmly.

Both Kaye and I wish you every success with your exams, enjoyable holidays, and a busy and rewarding finish to the academic year.