Visit to Bundamba State Secondary College

Principal, Ms Quinn and Deputy Principal, Ms Tonges, College Captains Jarlin and Kaitlin; teachers, staff and students.

I too, would like to begin by respectfully acknowledging the original custodians of the land and waters we share. I pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people here today.

Thank you all most sincerely for the warm welcome you have extended me this morning.

Bundamba State Secondary College is recognised as a school that respects and celebrates its diversity of cultures and inclusive curriculum programs.

Established in 1970, your school is aptly named after this suburb that it is situated in. But did you know that this suburb was originally named Bundanba – with an ‘n’? It is believed to have derived from the Aboriginal words ‘bundan’ and ‘ba’, meaning a ‘stone axe’ and ‘place of’.

This interpretation connects to Bundamba Creek, which was a source of good stone, for hand axes. The name Bundanba was officially changed to Bundamba in 1932.

Stone is a hard, solid mineral matter, especially suited as a building material. Like stone, your college offers you the opportunity to build a strong educational foundation, so that you have the best chance in being able to choose a successful and fulfilling pathway post high school.

Now, a little about myself and the different duties I perform as Governor of Queensland.

Part of my role is in fulfilling constitutional responsibilities as His Majesty King Charles III’s representative here in Queensland. I meet regularly with our Premier and Ministers to inspect and give Assent to important documents which include Bills passed before the Parliament and I preside over meetings of the Executive Council. I also work in a ceremonial capacity, welcoming visiting leaders and dignitaries to Queensland, and celebrating the achievements of our citizens by conferring Australian Honours and Awards.

But I must say, one of the best parts about being Governor is visiting Queenslanders where they live and connecting with so many different people – and schools are some of my very favourite places to visit.

I have the privilege of meeting the amazing teachers, staff and students like yourselves, and I am always so impressed! I particularly enjoy meeting the young people in our communities, because you demonstrate so much enthusiasm and energy.

Ms Quinn refers to the staff here at your school as being the ‘super powers’ that scaffold its success. And I am sure, students, that you join me in expressing deep gratitude to them for all they do in supporting you on your educational journey.

I understand that your school values of ‘Pride, Respect, Responsibility and Empowerment’, underpin all that is great and important to your learning.

May these principles become a lifelong mantra, that will guide you long after you leave school. I wish you all the very best for a happy and successful school year and look forward to the Q&A session with some of your senior Legal Studies students following today’s assembly.

Thank you.