Maritime milestone: TSRA’s Arianne Laifoo, acting chairperson Patrick Mooka, CEO Charlie Kaddy and Nancy Cook celebrate with Growing Our Own graduates. Photo: Supplied.
* Student surnames have been withheld on request.
Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) has celebrated a major milestone with nine proud Tagai State College graduates also completing the Growing Our Own project.
The initiative connects students with training, skills and career pathways to confidently step into the next stage of their lives.
The TSRA-funded project is a vital part of the organisation’s mission to drive sustainable economic opportunities – including for young people – and preserve the region’s proud maritime heritage.
In 2025, the Growing Our Own Tagai Transitions Maritime Project with Tagai State College, TAFE Queensland and UAV Industries enabled 75 students in years 10-12 to undertake maritime operations, first aid and essential elements of shipboard safety-certified courses.
On behalf of the class, 2025 Coxswains Award recipient Robert thanked those involved for the opportunity to obtain “important licences that put us in a really good position to get work”.
“The best part for me was being on the boats,” he said. “We all grew through the program and could put the theory into practice doing skills and drills.”
Acting TSRA chairperson Patrick Mooka, who attended the school graduation, said the Growing Our Own project delivered real outcomes and opportunities for young people.
“The project is about more than certificates, it is building confidence, leadership and career opportunities for our young people to take into the future,” Mr Mooka said.
“These inspiring nine graduates balanced their school, study, time and commitments to complete the program and show what is possible when our young people are supported to dream, achieve and succeed.”
Some students will work in the Torres Strait, others will build their careers and qualifications on the mainland first.
Graduates William, Joey, Lenny and Tyrell plan to explore options in the region, including in trades, maritime and as local rangers.
Shakyah and school captain Emily have gained early offers to study at James Cook University.
Liteah and Robert intend on using the qualifications to gain mainland experience including in Cairns and Western Australia, while Kalisha hopes to take a gap year for travel before working.
