Remote schools doing great work


June saw a QTU delegation visit four remote Aboriginal community schools.

Vice-President Sam Pidgeon, Peninsula Organiser Maureen Duffy and myself joined with the AEU’s Federal Aboriginal Officer, Nicole Major, to meet with QTU members serving in some of the state’s most remote locations.

We were welcomed by students and staff at four schools: Kowanyama State School, Cape York Aboriginal Australian Academy – Aurukun Campus, Lockhart State School and the Hopevale campus of the Cape York Aboriginal Australian Academy. While we didn’t get to visit the school, we were also able to catch up with the Union Reps from Western Cape College in Weipa.

The commitment of the principals and staff in these schools was evident and impressive. The schools were all very welcoming places, with colourful artwork and images a common sight. Students clearly enjoy being at school and met us with happy grins, and we were able to witness direct instruction in action and hear teachers’ views on the program.

We were shown around the communities and had a chance to view the teacher accommodation. This was a topic of much discussion with members, as was the transfer system and the Remote Area Incentive Scheme. Remoteness adds an extra layer of complexity to teaching in these communities, with simple things such as getting groceries a challenge. Prices in Aurukun’s shop had us city folk balking!

We also had the chance to update our members on the big changes we are seeing to our profession. We were able to provide an EB update, as well as discuss the IPS review, the new IR laws and share copies of the draft QTU Reconciliation Action Plan. Nicole Major also gave a national overview, including news of the re-launched Gonski campaign.

In Lockhart we witnessed the hive of excitement as students and staff loaded up the troop carriers and headed off to the Laura Dance Festival. We also had the chance to watch the dancers from Hopevale practicing their routine.

It was lovely to get back into the classroom and witness the great work being done by QTU members.

Cost of living

We often bemoan the cost of grocery items these days. Spare a thought for those living in our regional communities. Here’s a snapshot of prices from the Aurukun store:

  • Peanut butter - $11.25
  • Vegemite - $8.39
  • Maple syrup-$17.95
  • Moccona instant coffee- $35
  • Lawn seed-$62.

Kim Roy
Research Officer

Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 120 No 5, 17 July 2015, p12