Story and Photos by Rozahlia Dorante
Secondary students boarding at Torres Strait Kaziw Meta will benefit from improved facilities following the completion of a significant upgrade funded by the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).
Over a two-year build, the completed works included:
- Renovation of the Waiwi Meta Office.
- Refurbishment of the House Parent Flat.
- Upgraded Reception area.
- Renovated Board Room.
- Creation of new office space.
- Renovations to the Senior Girls’ and Junior Girls’ Wing.
- Refurbishment of See Kee House (Study Area).
- Installation of a new entrance gate.
- Creation of a feature mural celebrating culture and community.
- New building signage to enhance the campus identity.
This project has provided boarders with modern, comfortable living and learning environments, while supporting staff to deliver high-quality care and boarding services.
Torres Strait Kaziw Meta Chief Executive Officer Thomas Dunsmore said the upgrades have refreshed the look and feel of boarding at Torres Strait Kaziw Meta.
“Torres Strait Kaziw Meta is home away from home for our boarders and for them to see upgrades like this, is reaffirmation that we’re invested in them, their wellbeing and their education,” Mr Dunsmore said.
“As a boarding facility infused with cultural identity, our feature mural and building signage features works by the talented George Gabey who worked with boarders to create the artwork pieces that have formed our brand identity,”
“The refurbishment of See Kee House was crucial as that space is the main study area for our children to complete their school work with our study teachers,”
“From large whiteboard walls and desks to laptop stations, the room facilitates all learning styles and can now adequately accommodate larger study groups,” he said.
“We thank The National Indigenous Australians Agency’s funding demonstrates a continued commitment to improving educational outcomes for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal boarders through investment in quality infrastructure and boarders support services,”
The recent renovations were blessed and opened by Father Stephen at an intimate gathering featuring boarders, family members, board and staff of Torres Strait Kaziw Meta.
The investment recognises the important role that quality boarding facilities play in helping students remain connected to education, culture, and community. By improving accommodation and shared spaces, the project has contributed to a positive boarding experience that promotes student wellbeing, safety, and success.
These upgrades have enabled Torres Strait Kaziw Meta to house up to 97 boarders from across the Torres Strait region.
About Torres Strait Kaziw Meta
Kaziw Meta is a not for profit on Thursday Island providing wrap-around residential, cultural, academic and wellbeing support for students from the outer islands of the Torres Strait who attend local schools and programs.
For more information, contact Thomas Dunsmore 07 4069 1284 or email office@kaziwmeta.org.au
