Bowen State High School Celebrates NAIDOC Week

On Wednesday, July 10th, Bowen State High School celebrated NAIDOC Week with a fun-packed day of activities.
The day commenced with a traditional smoking ceremony conducted by Juru Elder Uncle Jimmy Gaston, Acknowledgment of Country and traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dancers.
Principal Robert Harris welcomed Juru Elders, community partners, families, sponsors, students and staff to the day of celebrations and shared how proud he is of the opportunities and support Bowen High provides First Nations students and families.
“We are committed to create a culture of teaching and learning fostered through strong relationships, common language and understanding,” he said.
Students, staff and community members participated in a range of activities including spear throwing, traditional dance and games, indigenous arts and craft. Students were also treated to a traditional Kup Muri which includes cooked meats, vegetables and damper. Students and staff also enjoyed the NAIDOC cake.
Students also had the opportunity to sit and listen to the protocols and purpose of a yarning circle.
Bowen SHS NAIDOC Celebrations were also attended by NAIDOC National Poster Winner Mrs Deb Belyea and 2023 School Captain Danzel Lewis.  
The celebration is an important event on the school calendar. Bowen High dedicates an entire school day for celebration, reflection and an opportunity to come together as one to honour the enduring strength and spirit of First Nations culture. Student attendance at this years NAIDOC celebrations was the highest it’s been for years.
The 2024 NAIDOC celebrations were made possible through sponsorship from the National Indigenous Australian Agency, AURIZON and Postech. Community support was received from Juru Elders, First Nation’s families, Girudala, Pacific National, and Woolworths.

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Students celebrating NAIDOC week
Students listening to protocols and purpose of a Yarning Circle.
Cutting of NAIDOC cake

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