As students across Queensland return to school for the 2025 academic year, none can quite match the extraordinary back-to-school journey of Kaziw Meta boarders.
On Tuesday, _[number]_ students from across the Zenadth Kes outer island communities flew, ferried, and dinghied back to Kaziw Meta on Waibene filled with excitement and focus for the year ahead.
Among the arrivals were many first-time boarders, accompanied by parents and family as they transitioned into their ‘home away from home’. Happy tears were shed as house parents welcomed students into their dorms.
Each boarder has received a Buddy Bag, kindly donated by the Alannah and Madeline Foundation to help with personal hygiene care and independence. These thoughtful preparations align with the college’s strategic goal of ensuring boarders are happy, healthy, and safe.
This year marks significant advancements for Kaziw Meta, after receiving $4.7m funding from the National Indigenous Australians Agency to upgrade and extend the Waiwi Meta Boarding House.
Major upgrades are also underway to improve the facility’s security and safety, enhance the study environment, construct a reception/welcome area and a new residence for boarding support staff.
Kaziw Meta CEO Thomas Dunsmore expressed his enthusiasm for the improvements that will create _[number]__ more beds for students.
“We aim to provide safe and culturally centred boarding for as many students as possible to access secondary education at Tagai State College,” Mr Dunsmore said.
“We can’t wait to unveil the new look for Kaziw Meta, featuring stunning artwork by renowned Torres Strait Islander artist George Gabey,” he added.
Board President ___[Insert Name]__ reaffirmed Kaziw Meta’s commitment to fostering a positive and culturally connected boarding experience.
“We are committed to growing culturally connected Torres Strait Islander leaders of the future,” ___[Name]___ said.
“Our unique, on-country boarding experience is designed to nurture pride, confidence, and aspiration in every student.” ___[Name]___ added.
Kaziw Meta remains focussed on its mission to create opportunities for boarders that extend far beyond the classroom. With a line-up of extracurricular and cultural programs in store, the journey of yumi young leaders begins now, and Kaziw Meta will encourage them to excel in 2025.
