Dear Yeronga Community,

As Term 2 comes to a close, I want to thank our students, staff, and families for another outstanding term at Yeronga SHS.

From our successful Open Day and Cross Country to Year 7 and 9 Camps and Harmony Day, there’s been so much to celebrate. A standout was receiving the national Student Voice Impact Award, recognising our students as true changemakers.

We’ve embraced global learning too – hosting a Korean Study Tour, sending students to Japan, and seeing next year’s NZ Ski Trip book out already!

Our Athletics Carnival, Kokoda Challenge, and Top Blokes evening were all inspiring examples of teamwork, resilience, and leadership. Refugee Week was another proud moment, celebrating the rich diversity of our school.

Next term, we look forward to Yeronga Celebrates, the launch of daily Breakfast Club, and upgrades to our basketball courts at D Block and the Oval – with students helping choose the final designs.

On a personal note, I’m delighted to share that I’ve been appointed permanent Principal of Yeronga SHS. It’s an honour to lead this wonderful school, and I’m excited for our future together.

Enjoy a well-earned break and see you in Term 3!

As Term 2 comes to a close, it’s a pleasure to reflect on the vibrant learning and community spirit that has defined the past few weeks for our Year 7 and 8 students.

A highlight this term was our Top Bloke Evening, where students and families came together to celebrate respectful relationships, self-leadership, and the importance of positive role models. It was a powerful reminder of how small actions can shape strong futures.

During lunchtimes, students took part in classic games like the egg and spoon races, bringing light-hearted competition and laughter to the school grounds. These moments of joy and connection are an important part of the Yeronga experience and a great way to build friendships and house spirit.

Our school proudly recognised Refugee Week with cultural performances, storytelling and classroom conversations that highlighted the strength and resilience of those who seek safety and belonging. It was a meaningful opportunity to deepen empathy and global awareness among our junior students.

Musically, our students showcased their talent at the Local Schools Cluster Music Evening, performing with passion and pride alongside peers from neighbouring schools. These shared performances help build confidence and community through creativity.

Throughout the term, many students also took part in the Push-Up Challenge, raising awareness for mental health while building fitness and determination.

These are just a few of the experiences and activities that have happened over the term.

Semester 1 reports have now been released. These provide an important snapshot of your child’s progress so far and are a chance to celebrate effort and set goals for improvement. We encourage families to discuss the report together and reach out if support is needed.

As we head into the break, I encourage all students to take time for rest and recharge. A balanced break helps ensure our young learners return refreshed, focused and ready for the opportunities of Term 3.

The next round of Parent Teacher Interviews will be booked through the Compass App.  The bookings will be aligned with the Semester 2 timetable so there will be some teachers in Year 7 – 10 that will have only taught your child for 6 weeks as they start their Semester 2 rotation or elective.  Bookings will open at the start of Term 3 when the new timetable is active.  Students will be emailed their timetables during the holidays on Monday 7 July.  We look forward to welcoming all students back to school on Monday 14 July.  Subject changes may only be requested for Semester 2 subjects in Week 1 of Term 3.  We are limited by student selections, class sizes, staffing expertise and specialised rooms when determining whether subjects can run.

Year 10 – Careers and Senior Education and Training Planning (SET planning)

Change to subject selection process for SET planning. 

This year when Year 10 students submit their initial subject selections, they will be done through a “smorgasbord” structure.  This means subjects will not be limited to lines and students will be able to communicate their preferences.  The timetabling program will be able to run algorithms to adjust the times subjects will run to reduce the number of clashes and create a best fit.  History tells us this process is not perfect and not all combinations will be possible, but this process will allow for the best fit for this cohort of Year 10 students. 

A subsequent subject selection will be necessary for the students with clashes, or exploration of other pathways to achieve their intended learning pathway.

Uniform

In reviewing uniform infringements recorded by staff it is clear that footwear and jumpers are key areas for improvement. 

In our last periodic uniform review, a decision was made to allow plain black, leather upper sport shoes to be part of the formal uniform.  It is disappointing to see a number of students stretch the sport shoes relaxation rule by wearing plain black fabric shoes.  These do not meet workplace health and safety in kitchens, science labs and workshops.

Many thanks for your support in ensuring your children have correct jumpers and footwear for the second half of the year.

As Term 2 comes to a close, student report cards have been emailed to all parents and carers. If you have not received your child’s report, please contact the school office to ensure your contact details are up to date in our system.

We encourage you to take the time to review the report with your child and discuss not only their Level of Achievement, but also their Effort, Behaviour, and Homework results. In Years 11 and 12, students are expected to demonstrate Very Good or Excellent in these areas to reflect their commitment to learning.

We also encourage families to reflect on the Semester 1 results together — identify strengths to build on and set goals for areas needing improvement. Our upcoming Parent-Teacher Interviews will take place in Week 6 of Term 3 (date to be confirmed). These meetings are a valuable opportunity to speak with your child’s teachers and collaborate on strategies to support their continued growth and success.

Year 12 – The Final Stretch

We are now at the halfway point of the academic year — and with just 13 school weeks remaining before the External Exam period begins, it is crucial for Year 12 students to stay focused. This is not the time to ease off. The decisions and efforts made now will directly impact their achievement of the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).

Students are encouraged to maintain momentum, meet deadlines, seek help early, and prioritise consistent revision and study. Procrastination can significantly impact their readiness — the end of the year will arrive sooner than they think.

Year 11 – Building the Foundation

Year 11 is a foundational year in the Senior School, setting the platform for Year 12 success. Unit 1 results contribute towards the QCE, so students must take every assessment seriously. While Year 11 results do not contribute to a student’s ATAR, they are still an essential indicator of future potential and progress.

Please use your child’s Semester 1 report to reflect on how they are tracking and support them in making any necessary adjustments in Term 3.

Attendance Matters

Consistent attendance is vital to success in senior schooling. This term, we have been closely monitoring attendance and communicating with students and families where concerns have arisen. Daily attendance is expected. Where absence is unavoidable due to illness, a medical certificate must be provided.

Repeated lateness or unexplained absences place students at risk of having their enrolment reviewed. We ask that all parents and carers continue to keep the school informed of any absences to ensure appropriate support can be provided.

ISP Reminders

Student Visa Requirements (ISP)

A reminder to all internationals students, as part of your visa conditions, you are required to:

• Maintain at least 95% attendance
• Pass all subjects
• For Year 11 and 12 students - be on track to graduate with your QCE

Homestay Travel

If you are living in a homestay and plan to travel, you must submit a Request to Travel form at least 3 weeks before your departure. EQI needs to approve this before you travel. It is therefore important to lodge your paperwork as soon as you know you are travelling.

Suspending Enrolment

A Request to Temporarily Suspend Enrolment form is only approved under compassionate or compelling circumstances - for example, serious illness supported by a medical certificate.

Please note: Holidays are not considered a valid reason. If you wish to travel overseas, it must be during official school holiday periods only. Travelling during the school terms will count towards your absences and will affect your 95% attendance.

Wishing all students a safe and restful break. We look forward to seeing you in Term 3!

Hello everyone

On the evening of Friday 13June, a couple of P and C (Parents and Citizens) members volunteered in the Cultural Centre’s kitchen to make hot drinks for the attendees of the Top Blokes event. I would like to thank Katie Shepherd and Ruth Ross Pe’er for their hard work and enthusiasm.

At the P and C meeting on Monday 23 June 2025 Maths Head of Department Mr. Habermehl put his hand up to be the new P and C Treasurer. Welcome abroad Mr. Habermehl. Many topics were discussed at the meeting, including the upcoming trivia night on Saturday 2 August 2025 at 6.30 pm. We would like to see as many parents/carers there as possible, especially those who joined Yeronga State High School this year. If you can’t make it on the night we need people to volunteer to help with the set up during the afternoon. Please go to https://volunteersignup.org/EEJF3

The next P and C meeting will be on Monday, 11August 2025. This will be an online-only meeting. Everyone is welcome, and we will be discussing different matters, including the upcoming Yeronga Celebrates on Friday, 15 August. If you cannot attend the meeting but would like to become a member, please complete the membership form and return it to pandcyshs@gmail.com

P&C Membership Form

Thank you

Think you’ve got what it takes to be crowned the ultimate music trivia champion? Time to prove it at Yerongapolooza Trivia Night!

Sample Questions – Can You Answer These?
1️⃣ Which iconic band’s logo features a tongue sticking out?
2️⃣ What was the first music video ever played on MTV?

If you know the answers, you’re already on your way to victory! Don’t miss this fun-filled night of music, laughter, and epic trivia.

Date: Friday, 2 August
Where: Yeronga SHS
Tickets: Available via the Qkr! app or TryBooking
Scan the QR code on our flyer or click the link in our bio to secure your spot!

Bonus Fun!
Dust off your air guitar and unleash your inner rock legend – there’s a prize for the best Air Guitar Performance on the night! 

Team up with friends or join our Motley Crew. Come dressed as your favourite band or artist and prepare for a legendary night of community spirit and entertainment.

Let’s raise the roof and some funds! All proceeds support Yeronga SHS through our amazing P&C.

Get your tickets now and let’s rock Yeronga! 

District Cross Country

A number of students competed at the Met West Cross Country trials recently.

Well done to all for being selected to attend the trials, especially to Stephanie McGlashan and Tom Gribble who made the Met West team and will compete at a national level.

Track & Field Carnival

Well done to all students who competed at our recent Track and Field carnivals.

A record number of students participated in both events, with many records broken. Congratulations to Avoca who came first after our combined Track and Field days.

Students who placed 1^st and 2^nd in their events are invited to attend the Eastern Taipans trials early next term.

Student Success

Congratulations to the following students who have made Eastern Taipans and Met West teams

• Lily Resetti – Touch (Eastern Taipans)
• Lily McLaughlin – Cricket (Met West)

AFLQ Schools Cup

Our Junior Girls played in the opening round of the AFLQ Schools Cup

We had a win over Canterbury College which qualified us for the final.

While the girls gave amazing effort to lead Lourdes Hill College for much of the game, LHC finished strong with the wind to win the day.

The girls improved with every game, gave great effort and have qualified for the next round of the statewide competition early next term.

Special thanks to Ned and Radha who were team managers on the day and the parents who came to support and bring oranges for the girls

Mr Palmer

Upcoming Events

• Week 1 – Junior students choose their Term 3 sport. Gala Day sports on offer are Badminton, Pickleball, AFL and Ultimate Disc for both boys and girls.
• Week 2 - Monday 21 July and Tuesday 22 July – Eastern Taipans Track and Field
• Week 3 - Tuesday 29 July – Senior Winter Gala Day

Considering a new ride or know someone who is? Exciting news! Yeronga SHS P&C is now a proud partner in a Community Program with Motorama Toyota Moorooka. When you purchase a vehicle and present our referral voucher, Yeronga SHS P&C receives $300 upon completion of the sale. Email us at PandCExecutiveTeam@yerongashs.eq.edu.au for more info. Your support drives our school forward!

Semester Timetables

As we begin the new semester, students in Years 7 and 8 will transition into their new elective subjects. Updated timetables will be distributed at the Year Level Assembly on Day 1 of Term 3. Please ensure your student checks their new timetable and is prepared for any subject room or teacher changes.

Any requests to change an elective subject must be made during Week 1, and core subject changes require a formal discussion with the Head of Department – Curriculum. These changes will be considered on a case-by-case basis and must align with class availability and student learning needs.

Report Cards

Semester 1 Report Cards are now available. We encourage families to take some time over the break to reflect on your student’s progress and have a conversation about setting realistic and purposeful goals for Semester 2.

If you have not yet received your child’s report, please contact me directly so we can ensure you have access to this important information.

Parent/Teacher Interviews - Save the Date: Tuesday, August 20

This is a valuable opportunity to connect with your child’s teachers and discuss their academic progress, areas for growth, and goals for the semester ahead. Holding interviews a few weeks into the new term allows time for new teachers and classes to settle, giving staff meaningful insights to share about your child’s progress. Booking details will be shared closer to the date.

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

Our school prides itself on offering a wide range of extra-curricular activities—from clubs, competitions and lunchtime events to creative arts and sports. These activities are regularly emailed to students, and there is truly something for everyone. Please encourage your child to get involved in something new this semester—it’s a great way to develop confidence, meet new friends, and build school connection.

Year 7 Enrolments for 2026

Do you have a child starting Year 7 in 2026? Or know someone who does? Please ensure enrolment applications are completed as soon as possible. Early enrolment helps us with planning for the year ahead—especially for staffing and class structures—so we can provide the best possible experience for every student.

Careers Expo - Term 3 

The annual Yeronga State High School Careers Expo will be held on Tuesday 15 July 2025.   Exhibitors from Tertiary Education Institutions, Registered Training Organisations, Industry Professional Bodies and employers will be present to talk about Careers and Training opportunities.  Some attendees include TAFE Queensland and Skillstech, Queensland University of Technology and Griffith University, Mater Education and Australian Defence Force Recruiting.

This is a great opportunity to explore different career pathways, meet industry representative and ask questions.  This is a time to consider different career opportunities that are available and plan to work towards achieving career goals. Students should come ready to ask questions!

We are holding the event in the Cultural Centre with Grades 9 to 12 being given time to explore the event during pre-allocated class times.  All students will have access to the hall during First Break.

Hutchies Try-A-Trade Day

Last Wednesday, some of our senior students were fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to take part in a try-a-trade day at Yeronga Heart Construction site located next door to Yeronga State High School. The event was hosted by Hutchies, in conjunction with Construction Skills Queensland.

Students were given the opportunity to try their hand at carpentry, tiling and painting, while being provided with instruction and advice by Hutchies’ experienced tradespeople. The Hutchies trainers gave students great insight into what its like to work on a commercial construction site, advice on entering the industry and tips on scoring that dream job.

Students were treated to a tour of the site, including being given close up look at the new Aged Care facility under construction. They got to ask questions, were shown state of the art building techniques and new products being used onsite. Students got to try-out tools and implement some techniques of the trades.

It was a fantastic day topped off with a delicious lunch!

We would like to thank Hutchies and Construction Skills Queensland for this amazing opportunity.

OSMAC Try a Trade Day

As part of their Career Development and Planning, some of our senior students were given the opportunity to participate in a Try-a-Trade Engineering Pathways Day.  The event was hosted by Rockpress, a metal fabrication and engineering plant that has operated in the local area since 1972.   Our students were given a site tour and shown the various trades undertaken at the plant.  Students got to chat to staff and witnessed operations onsite including high precision 2D/3D laser cutting technology, metal forming, light and heavy fabrication and coating and finishing.  TAFE Qld and OSMAC sponsored the event and were on hand to discuss career opportunities and pathways with our students.  To top it off, Rockpress provided a delicious lunch.

Year 11 and Year 12 – QUT Future You Summit

Congratulations to Year 11 and 12 students, Erica K, Germano, Navid and Aiden S who have been selected to attend the 2025 QUT Future You Summit, joining high-achieving students from across Queensland and northern NSW for a four-day on-campus experience this July.

They will explore university life, collaborate with like-minded students, and engage in hands-on learning led by QUT academics and industry experts.

Well done to our students that were selected from a competitive pool of 541 applicants and thank you to the teachers who supported their applications!

Supporting Students to achieve their QCE

Please review subject results with your child. Year 11 results reflect a Unit 1 result. A pass equates to 1 QCE credit in Applied and General Subjects. If a student hasn't been successful in Unit 1, it might we worth considering a subject change. Students can see HOD Senior, a Guidance Officer, or the Deputy Principal Senior to revise their SET Plans and discuss subject changes. Changes can occur up until the end of week 2 of term 3. Students are issued with a green subject change form which parents are asked to sign to confirm you awareness of, and approval of the change.

For year 12 students, results reflect a Unit 3 result. Students need to pass both Unit 3 and 4 in order to gain the 2 QCE credits for their Year 12 Assessment. Students can review their confirmed IA1 results in their QCAA student accounts by logging in at https://myqce.qcaa.qld.edu.au/

As we move forward with the SETP roll out, here’s a quick overview of the next steps. All relevant resources will be avaliable to students in the LA Tuesday P3 lessons. Please make sure to stay updated and prepared for the following key dates:

Term 3

• Week 1

  • Tuesday 15 July P3: SETP Prep session. LA teachers present info and ste by step instructions for the OneSchool application. Students will be able to begin the process in OneSchool.

  • Tuesday 15 July: Yeronga Careers Expo in the Cultural Centre.

• Week 2

  • Tuesday 22 July: Complete OneSchool SETP and have students start preparing their PowerPoint presentations for their SETP interviews in Week 3.

• Week 3

  • Tuesday 29 July: Finalise SETP OneSchool and PowerPoint presentations in preparation for Thursday’s interviews.

  • Thursday 31 July: SETP Interviews will take place all day.

Should you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to reach out. If you would like an interpreter present at the SET P interview, please email me and let me know.

On Friday, 13 June, our Year 10 students had the privilege of attending two incredible events that opened their eyes to future career and university pathways. The day began with a visit to the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), where students were welcomed and introduced to the many exciting opportunities available to them through the SET Plan and various university pathways.

At QUT, students learned about the diverse routes to university, including alternative pathways that can offer flexible and achievable paths toward higher education. The informative session provided clarity on how to navigate their academic journey post school, ensuring students feel confident and well informed as they make decisions about their future. It was especially meaningful for students to hear from past Yeronga SHS alumni, Sakura, who shared their inspiring journey to university and beyond, offering valuable insights and encouragement for those looking to follow in their footsteps.

Following the visit to QUT, the students attended the highly anticipated Careers Expo, where they had the chance to engage with a variety of industry professionals. A highlight of the day was the Trade Expo, a unique event that only comes to Brisbane every eight years. The Trade Expo sparked enthusiasm among students, showcasing hands on demonstrations and career opportunities in the trades sector.

This successful and enriching day has inspired many of our Year 10 students to explore a broader range of career pathways, and we look forward to supporting them as they continue to make informed decisions about their future. Thank you to QUT and all the participants who made this day possible!

At this week’s assembly, we were proud to hear from two of our students, Arwin and Mahdi, who shared powerful reflections on the meaning of Reconciliation in Australia. As students from Afghanistan, their words offered a unique and heartfelt perspective on what it means to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land and to be part of a diverse community committed to respect, truth, and unity.

Their speeches - delivered with sincerity and thoughtfulness - reminded us all that reconciliation is not just an event or a date on the calendar, but an ongoing journey of understanding and connection. By sharing their experiences and reflections, Arwin and Mahdi demonstrated the importance of embracing cultural respect, no matter where we come from.

We commend them for their courage, leadership, and for reminding us of the power of student voice in shaping a more inclusive school community.

Arwin's Speech

Acknowledgement of Country

I would like to begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land on which we meet today, the Jagera and Turrbal people, and pay my respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging.

Why it’s meaningful to someone from another country?

As someone who has migrated from another country, learning about and acknowledging the First Nations peoples of Australia is deeply important to me. It reminds me that I am living on land that has been cared for by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for over 60,000 years.

Even though I was not born here, I believe showing respect for the Traditional Custodians is part of being a thoughtful and responsible member of this community. It helps me understand the truth of Australia’s history, and it allows me to walk alongside First Nations people with respect, openness, and a desire to learn.

This acknowledgement is not just words — it’s a way of saying that I value the culture, strength, and spirit of the oldest living cultures in the world. It helps me feel connected to this land in a more honest and respectful way.

Mahdi's Speech

Good morning everyone,

Earlier this month, Australians across the country took part in National Reconciliation Week - a time to reflect on our shared history and to commit to a future built on respect, truth, and unity.

Even though the official week has passed, the message of reconciliation doesn’t end with the calendar. In fact, it’s something that should guide us throughout the year -especially in places like our school and local community.

Reconciliation means building stronger, more respectful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. It’s about learning the truth of our past - both the proud and painful parts - and using that understanding to create a better future for everyone.

For our school, reconciliation is a reminder that learning isn’t just about books and exams. It’s also about becoming thoughtful, respectful people who care about the world around us.

Whether you were born here or came from another country like I did, reconciliation is something we can all support. It's not about guilt or blame - it's about listening, learning, and growing together.

Thank you.

Please email our Enrolment Officer at enrolments@yerongashs.eq.edu.au if you have any questions.

For enrolment interviews, please bring:

• Your child that is being enrolled
• Birth certificate/passport/travel documents
• Most recent school report card/NAPLAN reports
• Enrolment application documents

To watch the Yeronga State High Video, please click the link below

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxI0tsaM6Ss&t=2s

To watch Y Yeronga (Why Yeronga Video) please click on the link below

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYNam89UzIY

Thank you.

Hello everyone

My name is Maria Growns-Lieu, and I am proud to introduce myself as one of the International Coordinators here at Yeronga State High School.

In this role, I have the privilege of supporting our international students as they settle into life and learning in Queensland. From ensuring students receive their timetables, textbooks, and support materials upon enrolment, to maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of their academic journey, my focus is on making sure every student feels welcome, supported, and set up for success.

A key part of my work involves developing strong communication links with students, parents, host families, and Department of Education International (DEi) staff. I also help deliver engaging orientation programs that assist students in adjusting to their new environment—both in school and within the wider community.

At Yeronga SHS, we’re deeply committed to inclusion and diversity. We believe in fostering a school environment where every individual feels respected, valued, and safe. Our role is not only administrative but pastoral: we monitor student wellbeing, behaviour, and visa compliance, and we connect students to counselling and other support services when needed.

In everything we do, we strive to uphold DEi’s standards and government requirements, all while promoting the values of respect, collaboration, and cultural understanding.

It’s an honour to contribute to a program that celebrates global perspectives and helps young people from around the world thrive in their educational journey here in Queensland.

Warm regards

Maria

I’ve been living with my homestay family since July 20, 2024, and over this past year, they have truly become like a second family to me. Moving to a completely new country at the age of 13 was not easy — I had to face a new language, a different culture, and the challenge of being far from my parents. But from the very beginning, my homestay gave me warmth, care, and a strong sense of belonging. Their support helped me grow and adapt, and because of them, my mother no longer worries about how I live or whether I’m doing well.

My host uncle and I both love Formula 1 and airplanes, and our dinner conversations are always filled with excitement and joy. These shared interests have built a close connection between us. My host aunt is always thoughtful and prepares delicious meals that make every day feel like home. Even though I am far from where I was born, I have never felt like a stranger here. I don’t feel lonely or helpless anymore, because I know I am surrounded by genuine love and care.

Living with them has been the most meaningful part of my life abroad. They haven’t just provided me with a place to stay — they’ve given me a place to belong. In their presence, I’ve found comfort, strength, and something that feels like home in the deepest sense of the word.

This piece is dedicated to my dearest homestay family.

With your kindness, patience, and quiet presence, you’ve brought light into my life far from home.

In this corner of the world, you’ve given me the warmest sense of belonging.

After nearly a year of adventure, learning, and laughter, it's time to say auf Wiedersehen to our wonderful international student, Sanae Koenig, who joined Yeronga SHS in July 2024.

Sanae, who hails from beautiful Switzerland, has been an absolute delight to have in our school community. During her time here, she’s embraced the Aussie lifestyle, made lifelong friends, and created memories she’ll carry forever—from classroom laughs to weekend adventures and everything in between!

Before heading home, Sanae will be travelling around Australia with her family (lucky!), soaking up the final moments of her Australian Adventure. She’ll then return to her hometown to complete the final two years of high school.

Sanae would like to thank all her teachers, friends, and her homestay family for their incredible support, kindness, and for making this year such a special and unforgettable journey.

We'll miss your bright smile and positive energy around campus, Sanae!

Wishing you all the very best as you head into the next exciting chapter of your story.

Don’t forget—once a Yeronga student, always a part of the Yeronga family!

Safe travels and stay in touch! 

My name is Salome Nunda, and this is my story. I was born on September 15th, 2008, in a small refugee village called Luwani in Malawi. My family is among the millions who fled the Democratic Republic of Congo because of the ongoing genocide. Since the first Congo war in 1996, many Congolese families have been forced to leave their homes, with little hope for a better life.

I’ve always been told that my country was peaceful before the war started. Deep in my heart, I wish those peaceful days had never ended. But everything really changed. My parents were forced to live in small mud houses with roofs that leaked every time it rained. Life was not easy, but we had no other choice. We had to work hard just to eat a piece of bread.

I remember carrying bottles to the river just to collect water from the dirty rivers full of litter. Unless the UN built new water fountains, we had no other choice. I always had moments where I wished everything was different, like when I went out with my dad for 12 hours burning charcoal, often with no food for the whole day. These experiences taught me the meaning of endurance and hope.

Many times, I imagined how life might be in other parts of the world—where people have food, proper clothes, soft beds, and peace. I had none of these. Being a refugee is not easy because it’s not something that happens by choice, but it’s forced. Even though I was not in my home country, I have found a second home—Australia.

Get ready to light up Brisbane!

We're thrilled to announce the return of Multicultural Australia's LUMINOUS Lantern Parade in 2025!

Mark your calendar for Friday the 1^st of August at South Bank Parklands—and kick off Multicultural Queensland Month with a burst of colour, culture, sounds and celebration.

This year’s parade promises to be an unforgettable spectacle of Queensland’s vibrant diversity. Join us in welcoming new Queenslanders and experience the magic of one of the state’s biggest multicultural events.

Organise a group of friends or family and let’s make this night shine brighter than ever!

Event details

DATE: Friday, 1 August 2025 
TIME: From 5.30pm    
LOCATION: South Bank Parklands, Brisbane 

Brisbane Bullets - Holiday Clinics