125th Anniversary of the Quinalow State School

Speaker of the Legislative Assembly and Member for Condamine the Honourable Pat Weir MP; Toowoomba Regional Council, Mayor Geoff McDonald; School Supervisor for Darling Downs South West, Queensland Department of Education, Dr Dean Russell; Quinalow State School Principal, Ms Trish Luckock; President of the 125-year Anniversary Celebrations, Ms Rebecca Campbell and the organising committee; P&C President, Mr Kahn Vietheer; past and present staff and students; parents and friends; sponsors and supporters; distinguished guests.  

I begin by also acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands on which we are gathered, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here today. 

Good morning, everyone — thank you for such a warm welcome. It is a great pleasure for Graeme and me to join you today in this wonderful part of the northern Downs as we celebrate 125 years of the Quinalow State School.  

I will start by saying I find it very fitting that the school is located here in “Progress Street”, given its rich history and enduring impact on local communities. Quinalow State School was established at the time of Federation in Australia – Queen Victoria was our Monarch followed closely by King Edward the Seventh. Sir Edmund Barton was our Prime Minister, Lord Hopetoun our Governor-General, Lord Lamington our state’s Governor and Sir Robert Philp our state’s Premier. 

Since 1901, Quinalow State School has remained a cornerstone of this district, welcoming children from farming families, local businesses and surrounding towns, offering not only an education but a sense of belonging and community.  

Today, we honour the generations of families who have entrusted their children to this school. Many of you here today are former students yourselves, whether you be 19 or 90 years young!

Some of the first families to send their children to the school – the Vohland, Reimers, Maynard and Brown families – are now sending their great-great-great-grandchildren to this school. I understand that five generations of the Brown family have attended the school, including young Tommy and Ryder Brown who are here today.  

This continuity speaks to the enduring pride this community holds in its school, and the deep connection between Quinalow and the families who have sustained it. 

Today we recognise the valuable contribution of teachers and teacher aides —past and present – whose dedication and professionalism has helped shape students’ lives, strengthened families and enriched this community.  

We also acknowledge other staff who keep the school running—administrators, groundskeepers and support workers. Your contributions, though sometimes behind-the-scenes, are essential to creating a safe, welcoming and vibrant learning environment. 

In particular, I acknowledge Principal Trish Luckock for her leadership and commitment, and thank those involved in organising these wonderful celebrations, as well as members of the P&C who contribute to the school’s success, particularly through fundraising efforts to support school excursions, new equipment and upgraded facilities.  

To the students of today: you are the next chapter in this school’s proud story. You carry forward its traditions, and you will shape its future. I hope you feel proud of the place you come from and are excited for the possibilities ahead. 

We look forward to touring the school, exploring the displays, meeting many of you, and learning more about your history.  

Once again, congratulations on your remarkable 125th anniversary.