Celebrating our 2026 First Nations graduates

209 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Year 12 students from across the Archdiocese of Brisbane were celebrated at the 2026 Year 12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Graduation Liturgy on 27 August.

Held in the presence of Elders, their families, community members, and school staff, the special gathering honoured the achievements of the graduating class and recognised the support networks that have helped guide students throughout their schooling journey.

Of the graduates, 129 were from Brisbane Catholic Education schools. 

St Peter Claver College, Riverview Year 12 graduate and 2026 Cultural Captain Kane Munt said the liturgy was a really special moment.

“It feels amazing to celebrate this achievement together alongside such deadly young mob, who have all worked hard to reach this point,” he said.

“It’s a chance to recognise not only what we have achieved at school, but also the strength, culture, and connections that have helped us along the way.”

During his time at school, Kane, a proud Mabaigal man, won the Kennelly Constructions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Achievement Award at the 7News Young Achievers Awards and was a finalist for the Queensland Family and Child Commission Contribution to Community or Family Safety Award (First Nations). 

After graduation, Kane aspires to study Law at The University of Queensland.

Kane’s mum Emilea Johnson said watching Kane and his peers graduate was an incredibly proud moment for her.

“For Kane, this achievement represents so much more than completing school,” she said.

“It reflects the journey he has taken in discovering who he is, staying connected to his culture, and continuing to believe in his own potential. 

“He has always shown a strong sense of justice, compassion, and a desire to make a difference, which is why it has been so inspiring to watch him grow through his school years. 

“I am proud not only of what Kane has achieved, but of the person he is becoming.

“I know he will carry his culture, his values, and his experiences gained at St Peter Claver College with him as he takes this next step and continues working towards creating positive change for others.”

Brisbane Catholic Education Senior Manager of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Dr Mayrah Dreise shared her hopes and dreams for the graduates as they enter a world that is increasingly shaped by technology, encouraging them to embrace innovation while staying connected to their culture, values, and communities.

“I want our young people to find meaningful work that draws upon their interests, gifts, and aspirations, rather than feeling directed towards careers that do not reflect who they are, or what they want for their future,” she said.

“This is core to our BCE Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Strategy Molum Sabe's Impact Domain, Pathways for Learning and Life, where student aspirations, voice, and agency are centralised.

“Whether these inspirational students choose technology, education, health, business, the arts, the trades, community service, or an emerging field, I hope they enter that profession with pride in being Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and confidence in their capacity to lead. 

“My dream is that they will be recognised for the knowledge and excellence they bring to their chosen fields, while continuing to strengthen culture, contribute meaningfully to community and create opportunities for the generations who follow.

“This year also marks a significant milestone for our community, with the first Year 12 students graduating from Sophia College, Plainland and San Damiano College, Yarrabilba, both of which opened in 2021. We are especially proud to celebrate the graduates from these two College’s.”

Sophia College Principal Narelle Dobson delivered the First Reading, while San Damiano College graduate Charlie Smith participated in the student procession.

BCE Acting Executive Director Ross Tarlinton congratulated the graduates on this important milestone.

“Reaching the end of Year 12 is a significant achievement,” he said.

“It represents many years of learning, growth, perseverance, courage and commitment. 

“It also represents the support of the people who have walked beside you, your families, your teachers, your school communities, your Elders, your friends and the many people who have believed in you along the way.”

This year’s NAIDOC Week theme, ‘50 Years of Deadly’, provided a powerful backdrop for the celebration, recognising the generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples who have paved the way for future generations to thrive.

“You stand on the strength of those who came before you, and you now carry that strength forward,” Ross adds.

“Your graduation is not simply the end of your schooling journey. 

“It is the beginning of the contribution you will continue to make to your families, your communities, your workplaces, your places of further learning, your Church and the wider world.”

Image caption: 209 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Year 12 students from across the Archdiocese of Brisbane were celebrated at the 2026 Year 12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Graduation Liturgy today. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2026).

Image caption: St Peter Claver College Riverview graduate Kane Munt. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2026).

Image Caption: St Johns College Nambour graduate Keeley and student artist Holly. Holly's artwork appears in the frame she is holding with friend Keeley. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2026).

Image caption: Ross Tarlinton congratulates an Assisi Catholic College Upper Coomer graduate. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2026).

Image caption: BCE's First Nations Dance Troupe. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2026).