Last week, we were privileged to welcome delegates from Catholic Education Queensland to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School across both our Thursday Island and Hammond Island campuses. The visit of Peter Elmore, Deputy CEO, and Emily Wilson, Director of Education Advocacy and Strategy, was a strong affirmation of the importance of collaboration and authentic partnership as we continue addressing the significant and long overdue capital works required at our school.
As a remote Torres Strait community, we face a distinct set of challenges. Escalating building costs, driven by freight, logistics and workforce limitations, have compounded the complexity of delivering major infrastructure projects. Since receiving a capital grant in 2022, Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns has worked persistently to secure a builder capable of delivering the full scope of works within the allocated funding envelope. Despite multiple tender processes, this has proven difficult. The ongoing partnership and advocacy of CEQL strengthens our confidence that a pathway forward will be realised.
While the process has at times been frustrating, our community has remained resolute. We are grateful for the tireless efforts of Lloyd Matheson, Executive Manager Building and Planning, along with Kate Guy-Hall and the CES Building and Planning team, whose professional persistence continues to drive this work. Their commitment reflects our shared determination to see these improvements brought to fruition for the benefit of our students and families.
Encouragingly, enrolments are projected to rise in 2026, supported by the Access For All initiative launched late last year. This growth reflects our clear strategic intent: to be the school of choice for First Nations families in Zenadth Kes. Our commitment to culturally responsive, faith-centred education remains unwavering.
We were also honoured by the presence of Bishop Joe, Parish Priest Fr Michael, and Director of School Performance Bronwyn Buckley during the visit. A particular highlight was the moving performance of traditional dance and song by our students and staff. This celebration of cultural identity and connection to land, sea and sky powerfully embodied who we are as a Catholic school in the Torres Strait.
The visit reinforced the strength found in community, faith and collaborative endeavour. We remain deeply appreciative of our CEQL partners for their willingness to listen carefully, engage thoughtfully and walk alongside us. With shared purpose, professional resolve and enduring faith, we look forward with confidence to achieving the capital improvements our students and community deserve.
