Access For All Initiative Launched at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart
In a historic moment for Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Waiben and Kirriri, the Access For All initiative was recently launched by the Executive Director of Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns (CEDC), Durm O’Riordan.
Surrounded by students, staff, parish representatives, and community members, Mr O’Riordan praised the school for its vision and deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and partnership with families. The launch highlighted the steadfast support of Bishop Joe, Parish Priest Fr Michael, and the wider CEDC community, all united in their desire to strengthen educational access across Zenadth Kes.
The initiative represents a bold step forward in ensuring that Catholic education in the Torres Strait is truly open to every family with tuition fees at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart being entirely voluntary from 2026. Families will be able to contribute in ways that are meaningful and sustainable to them, removing financial barriers and honouring the school’s long history of serving the Torres Strait. The shift recognises that most of the school’s funding already comes from government sources, and that welcoming more families strengthens both the school and the community it serves. It also means that the Torres Strait’s leading educational option is now its most affordable, ensuring that quality, values-driven Catholic education is accessible to all.
Principal David Graham said the initiative reflects the heart of the school’s mission.
“Access For All is much more than a financial decision. It is a public commitment to walk with our families, to lift burdens where we can, and to ensure every child in the Torres Strait can experience a Catholic education that knows them, values them, and celebrates who they are,” he said.
“This community has trusted our school for almost 140 years. This is one way we honour that trust and invest in the future of our children.”
The initiative stands as a shining example of our collective vision in action. The bold and compassionate leadership of Principal David Graham, the unwavering dedication of the staff, and the support of Bishop Joe, Fr Michael, and Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns, embody our enduring commitment to making Catholic education accessible, inclusive, and transformative for all.