Milton State School Student Leadership Induction Ceremony

Principal, Mr Paul Zernike; staff; parents and students. Thank you for your very warm welcome and for that superb performance of our National Anthem.

I at once acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands around Brisbane, and extend respectful greetings to Elders and emerging leaders.

Kaye and I are delighted to be back at your wonderful school. We will never forget the Milton State School students who so eagerly – and loyally – waved us into Government House on the evening of my first day as Governor on 29 July 2014.

That, by the way, came as a complete surprise to Kaye and me – and it was for us a very moving experience. It was then, before entering the House, that Kaye memorably called to all the students on the Lower Lawn, saying: “I would love to be the grandmother of each and every one of you!”

And today we are very honoured to attend this Leadership Induction Ceremony.

Milton State School has a long history of providing an outstanding educational environment. Indeed, my mother was very proud to have taught here – some years ago now, and Mrs Ngaire Jarro, one of your much-respected teachers, would I think be regarded by us as a sister-in-law by marriage – do you understand that students?

I am myself a former student of Ithaca Creek, so part of the ‘village’, but a very special village within this City.

May I commend all teachers and parents for your dedication and devotion to the young people in your care. Your work and your love provide the foundation for building stronger communities and encouraging our future leaders to flourish. Never doubt the importance of what you do.

The skills and qualities required for leadership must be nurtured and developed. I believe this takes place not only in classrooms, but on sports fields, while engaging creatively, and in playgrounds. Leaders emerge from a range of backgrounds and experiences.

Almost daily, Kaye and I pass this elegant School – as I see it, the ‘school with a park’ and we are both very proud to be your neighbours.

To the 2020 leaders of Milton State School – congratulations! You must have worked hard and performed admirably to have earned the respect of your teachers and fellow students. You must rightly feel satisfied with your achievements – and that you have been chosen to lead your school community. 

Shortly I will give you a badge as a symbol of your new position.  This badge comes with expectations. You must act as role models for all students. Strive to be the very best of yourself.

Leadership isn’t just about being liked. Your school motto is “Truth Conquers”. This does not just mean being honest to others, but also being honest to yourself – always be prepared to learn and develop in your new role.

As a good leader, listen carefully to others. Pay attention to those around you – particularly the very young and newcomers to your School. Inspire all Milton students to get involved and encourage them to do their very best.

To all students, you too have an important job to do. Together with the newly elected leadership team, I encourage you all to work hard, to co-operate and to do your best – thereby you will succeed.

Kaye and I have long admired this School community. My Honorary Aide-de-Camp, Acting Inspector Stewart, regularly reports of impressive students, including unsurprisingly her own children, Master Franklin and Miss Ivy, who were a very great help during our Christmas Lights Display at Fernberg in December.

It is a great honour to be here on this most special day for our leaders, and for this wider School community. Thank you, Mr Zernike, Councillor Matic, students, staff, parents and supporters, and especially, today, the 2020 school leaders of Milton State School!