Over the September school holidays, Rockhampton Girls Grammar School Year 11 student Olivia attended the Waalitj Foundation Camp funded by Shell QGC Business. The purpose of the camp is to provide an opportunity for students to experience life as a university or vocational student whilst providing information pertaining to various career pathways. The program also highlights student eligibility to apply for the QGC Indigenous Scholarship Program.
Olivia says, “I would highly recommend this camp to all first nations people, whether you are looking into a trade, to do a degree or higher tertiary studies or for those who do not know what their life after school is going to hold.”
Olivia recalls feeling very welcomed among the cohort of students, staff and mentors who were selected to be a part of the program. She was provided with opportunities to make friendships with like-minded Indigenous students from various Aboriginal tribe groups as well as network with established Indigenous professionals who work with the Waalitj Foundation and Shell QGC.
The supervisors, special guests and directors’ information sessions and speeches were very inspiring and further cemented the career pathway that Olivia aspires to pursue.
During the course of the camp, students were lucky enough to head on an excursion to Curtis Island and tour parts of the Shell QGC Downstream Plant. This was an informative experience. Students were also transferred to CQU Gladstone Campus where they were challenged with some fun activities.
Overall, Olivia had a great time attending the program. She represented herself and Rockhampton Girls Grammar School wonderfully.
Shania Conlon
Indigenous Liaison Officer