Several students and teachers recently returned from the annual week-long immersion on the Tiwi Islands, describing the experience as both inspiring and life-changing. During their time, participants engaged deeply with Indigenous cultural, artistic, educational, and environmental activities, gaining a richer understanding of Tiwi traditions and community life.

St James College Assistant Principal Learning, Innovation, Pathways & Partnerships Ms Karen Lindsey said it was a privilege to stay on Country.

“I was privileged to join our students on the Tiwi Islands Immersion, staying on country and working with teachers and students in the community of Wurrumiyanga.”

“It was inspiring to witness our students grow in confidence and leadership as they interacted with their peers.

Many described the experience as life-changing, with some even expressing a desire to become teachers in the future—a testament to the power of shared learning and connection,” Lindsey added.

Year 11 student Emma wrote a powerful reflection of her experience.

“Before arriving in Tiwi, I pictured a place that had a rich culture, but was inhabited by people who were unwelcoming due to their remote location. I was a bit apprehensive about staying on the Tiwi Islands because I was worried that the locals wouldn’t accept us because we were foreigners.

I wanted to come on the Immersion because I have always been interested in learning about new cultures. As my dad always said, “the best way to learn something new is to go and experience it yourself,” which has always pushed me to be inquisitive.

After spending time in the Tiwi Islands, I will definitely cherish the memories of my new friends from there, and I’ve gained humility and gratitude. Living in Tiwi showed me how to be content with the things I already have, and that I shouldn’t take anything for granted. I started to become grateful for even the small things like sleeping in a bed and having a shower. I also learnt the importance of community as I was fortunate enough to have met so many beautiful people on Tiwi.”

St James College Principal Andrée Rice said she felt blessed for experiencing the Tiwi culture again.

“Blessed to have experienced so close up the welcoming, resilient and incredibly rich culture of the Tiwi people.”

“Words can't adequately capture the way our time has impacted us but our hope is that we can use our learnings to make the Jimmies community even more inclusive, culturally responsive and justice-oriented and that we can use the little microcosm that's our school to help create a more equitable Australia for all especially for our First Nations' sisters and brothers.”

Further, Rice announced the commissioning of a painting of Edmund Rice from the renowned Tiwi Islands artist Fiona Kerinauia.

Pictured: St James College staff, Sr Anne Gardiner (seated) and artist Fiona Kerinauia.