Last Friday, our Year 11 First Nations students from Carmel College had the honour of attending the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) new recipient ceremony hosted by the Australian Catholic University at Banyo.

Madeline, Fiarelli, Archer and Sam joined with hundreds of students from various Catholic, State, and independent schools across South-East Queensland. These students proudly received their scholarships, which are funded by the labour and unpaid wages of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders from past decades. This financial support represents a commitment to righting historical wrongs while also investing in the future of our First Nations students, providing opportunities their ancestors were denied.

Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland officiated at the event, and spoke with passion and enthusiasm about the challenges and opportunities ahead of the cohort.

The ceremony was not only about the official presentation of certificates but also featured captivating traditional dances and heartfelt reflections from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders. Additionally, former QATSIF scholarship recipients shared inspiring stories about the significance of education and seizing every opportunity.

Congratulations to our students who represented Carmel College, their families and culture with pride.

For more information about QATSIF, visit QATSIF.

Ms Terri Edwards
Learning Enrichment – First Nations Support / Academic Staff