Thursday, 3 July 2025
Stories and events of the Kaurareg homeland of Kaiwalagal, the Torres Strait homeland and Cape York homelands of the Anggamuthi, Atambaya, Wuthathi, Yadhaykenu and Gudang Peoples.
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Beep beep: boarders behind the wheel
MAIN PIC: All smiles at the blessing of the new Torres Strait Kaziw Meta learner driver car. INSET: Olita Agie showing off her learner’s licence. Pics supplied. BY KANTESHA TAKAI & TAMARA DAVID Boarders and House Parents got together in song to bless their brandnew learner driver car at Torres Strait Kaziw Meta (TSKM) last Friday. Father Tom Stephen led the blessing, followed by a chorus hymn by House Parents. As soon as formalities concluded, everyone was
keen to take photos in and around their new ride. For the first time ever, TSKM boarders and staff can apply for their learner licences and accrue driving hours under the guidance of an accredited driving instructor – local Torres Strait Islander – Uncle Jimmy O’Cloudy, thanks to ongoing program support from the Australian and Queensland governments. At the blessing, TSKM CEO Thomas Dunsmore
encouraged everyone to take advantage of this new opportunity. “The whole concept is to ensure that the Torres Strait Kaziw Meta community are empowered and for our boarders to feel prepared to graduate high school,” Mr Dunsmore said. “The program funds cover application fees as soon as boarders turn 16 years old and driving lessons with Uncle Jimmy.
“The car is equipped with dual brakes and pedals to ensure on-road safety, with monitored driving schedules for our boarders.” Senior boarder and Cultural Leader Kennisha Matthew (Year 12) said she was excited to get behind the wheel. “For me, this means freedom,” she said. “I am looking forward to getting my learner’s and starting to drive.
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“This gives opportunities for future boarders to learn to drive here instead of waiting to go home on the holidays.” Samson Akiba (Year 12) said he planned to use his licence to get around town. “I’m excited to get my licence so that I can drive around in town and go anywhere I want to go,” he said. Senior boarder Olita Agie (Year 12) showed off her
learner’s licence and said she couldn’t wait to start driving lessons. “I have my learners, and I’m keen to start driving lessons with Uncle Jimmy next term,” she said. The TSKM learner driver car is hard to miss, wrapped in artwork by local Torres Strait Islander artist George Gabey. “If you see our boarders on the road, give us a wave,” Mr Dunsmore said.