Last Friday marked a historic moment for Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Waiben and Kirriri, with the official launch of the Access For All initiative by the Executive Director of Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns, Mr Durm O’Riordan. The initiative represents a bold step forward in ensuring that Catholic education in the Torres Strait is truly open to every family.
Surrounded by students, staff, parish representatives, and community members, Mr O’Riordan praised the school for its vision and deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and partnership with families. The launch highlighted the steadfast support of Bishop Joe, Parish Priest Fr Michael, and the wider CEDC community, all united in their desire to strengthen educational access across Zenadth Kes.
From 2026, tuition fees at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart will be entirely voluntary. Families will be able to contribute in ways that are meaningful and sustainable to them, removing financial barriers and honouring the school’s long history of serving the Torres Strait. The shift recognises that most of the school’s funding already comes from government sources, and that welcoming more families strengthens both the school and the community it serves. It also means that the Torres Strait’s leading educational option is now its most affordable, ensuring that quality, values-driven Catholic education is accessible to all.
Principal David Graham said the initiative reflects the heart of the school’s mission.
“Access For All is much more than a financial decision. It is a public commitment to walk with our families, to lift burdens where we can, and to ensure every child in the Torres Strait can experience a Catholic education that knows them, values them, and celebrates who they are,” he said. “This community has trusted our school for almost 140 years. This is one way we honour that trust and invest in the future of our children.”
The initiative reinforces the school’s dedication to cultural strength, welcome, and community partnership. It also continues a tradition of service that began when Catholic missionaries first established education in the region in the late 1800s. By placing people before process and dignity before dollars, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart is renewing its promise to the people of Waiben, Kirriri, and the wider Torres Strait.
As the school looks toward 2026, Access For All stands as a powerful commitment to ensure every child can learn, grow, and thrive with confidence, belonging, and hope for the future.
