A special delivery of joy for local students affected by floods
SCHOOL WRAP
Mossman State School students experienced a truly unforgettable moment when Qantas’s “special delivery plane” touched down in Cairns, brimming with Christmas presents for children impacted by Cyclone Jasper’s devastating floods.
This heartwarming initiative was a collaborative effort between Qantas and the Australian Red Cross, who have been dedicated to supporting the Far North Queensland community in the wake of the disaster.
Following the Red Cross Pillowcase Program’s visit to the school in September, the organisation returned to brighten spirits with a community morning filled with joy. Each Mossman Primary School student received a Christmas gift, courtesy of Qantas staff who donated generously as part of the airline’s annual holiday tradition.
In partnership with Qantas, they hosted a community morning which involved creating some positive memories and bringing some joy by gifting presents to each student from Mossman Primary School.
This initiative is part of Qantas’ Christmas annual tradition, where staff generously donate to give back to the community.
On December 10, 35 members of the Mossman community, including staff, students, and local organizations, traveled to Cairns Airport to receive the gifts.
The following day, during a special school assembly, Qantas and Red Cross staff personally distributed the presents. To add to the festive atmosphere, a BBQ celebration brought together students, parents, and staff in a moment of community solidarity.
The generosity extended beyond Mossman, with gifts also shared with Bloomfield River State School and the Wujal Wujal community, who were similarly affected by the floods.
A milestone moment for Port Douglas Year 6 students
Port Douglas State School Year 6 students ended their year with a wonderful graduation at Oaks which was full of fun, laughter and delicious food and cake.
Kelda Wray, Grade 5/6 teacher at Port Douglas State School, reflected on the final year of primary for the Year 6 students.
“What a year it’s been for the Year 6 students of Port Douglas State School!,” she said.
“They’ve secured friendships with the elderly, made a butterfly garden at The Neighbourhood Centre, and made many new friends at the district school camp in Tinaroo.
“Other highlights included showcasing their Asia Day exhibition, a trip to Low Isles and making Wobblebots (a motorized project teaching students about circuits and motion).
“They will never forget their prep and kindy buddies and are all super excited as they move on to High school.”
Mossman State School’s stunning new mural: "Rainforest Meets the Reef"
Mossman State School unveiled a breathtaking mural created under the guidance of contemporary Indigenous artist Lalania Tusa, of the Kuku Yalanji Tribe.
Working alongside the school’s Indigenous Leaders of the Future (ILF) students, Lalania led a collaborative effort to bring to life the mural titled Rainforest Meets the Reef.
The artwork tells the story of Kubirriwarra and surrounding clans, incorporating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural symbols. Musical instruments celebrate tradition, kangaroo tracks depict educational journeys, and the flowing river represents Mossman Gorge, while the crocodile reflects resilience. Coconut trees, hibiscus flowers, and turquoise waters highlight the region’s cultural richness and balance of learning.
The project was funded by the school's P&C and we were also grateful to Cairns Hardware as part of the Community Chest funding who donated all of the paint for the project.
The school would like to publicly thank Lalania and all her many helpers, particularly Tyler Smith for his persistence and diligence each day!
The mural creates a lasting legacy for students, families, and the community, leaving an enduring impact on Mossman State School for generations to come.
Check out what's been happening at Daintree State School
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