As their final year of secondary school draws to a close, First Nations graduates from across the Archdiocese of Brisbane were celebrated and honoured in a special liturgy at the Cathedral of St. Stephen on Thursday, 29 August.
In 2024, 210 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students graduated from across 40 Catholic Schools, including 29 Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) schools.
This year marks one of the highest numbers of First Nations students graduating from BCE schools.
Among them was Year 12 San Sisto College Carina student Emily Stork, who said the graduation was especially important to her family.
“My family believes this is an important rite of passage for me,” she said.
“Looking to the future, I am planning on completing a Bachelor of Nursing at The Australian Catholic University.
“It is important for me to be able to help people when I leave school.”
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Officer Engagement Education Officer Kevin Eastment said the graduation liturgy was a chance to celebrate the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
“For some First Nations students, they may be the first graduating Year 12 in their family,” said the Wagaduagum man.
“The increasing number of students reaching and completing Year 12 is both significant and inspiring.
“This event is an important opportunity for community to come together, recognising and celebrating the dedication and hard work of our students.”
BCE Senior Manager of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Dr Mayrah Dreise congratulated all First Nations students on completing their formal years of schooling.
“My hopes and wishes are that our First Nations graduates consider pathways into education, TAFE, or university, or secure a job within the workforce,” the Gamilaraay and Yuwaalaraay woman said.
“It is extremely important that First Nations students are part of the Australian labour force and contribute to society, providing much needed advice and understanding of our cultures, heritages, and identities.
“It would be fantastic if some of our students would consider working within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education or with one of our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations, carrying the baton for future generations.
“I would also like to acknowledge the Elders who participated in this year's graduation liturgy and for their continual support of BCE First Nations students and staff throughout the year.”
San Sisto College Year 12 student Sharna Liedeman said she also aspires to pursue nursing after school.
“I am currently working as an assistant in nursing at the Princess Alexander Hospital which has given me the opportunity to understand all the different areas in the hospital,” she said.
“I would like to specialise in paediatric nursing.
“My parents are so proud of me.”
The graduation service featured a liturgy, a procession led by the graduates, an Acknowledgment of Country by Uncle David Miller, and performances by the BCE dance group ‘Dappīl Meeanjin Dancers,’ and Torres Strait Islander Family Dance Group, followed by a light lunch.
