Bowen State High School celebrates 60th birthday

A Bowen community icon turns 60 this weekend and everyone is invited to join the celebrations.

Be at Bowen State High School for the cutting of the cake at 4pm this Saturday, May 22. File photo

Bowen State High School is going all out to celebrate its 60th birthday this weekend, with a jam packed afternoon of entertainment for the whole community to enjoy.

The party starts at 3pm this Saturday, May 22, with live music and performances, amusement rides and inflatables, tours, games, memorabilia displays, food stalls, and more, all the way through to the evening.

School principal Pam Prichard said the event had been months in the planning, with all staff – from admin to teachers to groundskeepers – getting involved to give the milestone the recognition it deserved.

Ms Prichard said the school had come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1961, growing from an original cohort of 101 students to 713 enrolments in 2021.

Bowen State High School opened in 1961 with a cohort of 101 students. Picture: Supplied.

From a limited curriculum in limited space, with no computers, the school is now leading the way in technology focused STEM subjects, as well as Universal Design for Learning, which makes education accessible to all students.

“For me, it’s our collaboration that makes our school incredible,” Ms Prichard said.

“We’ve made it a priority to promote an inclusive learning culture, and that will only continue to grow as the school continues to grow,” she said.

Ms Prichard was delighted to welcome past and present staff and students to join in the festivities, and reflect on the many changes – big and small – that have occurred over the years.

She said the school was “really proud” of all its students and she hoped to see many graduates return for the special day.

“It’s all about having a community event to acknowledge a significant milestone in our history,” Ms Prichard said.

“Sixty years – that needs to be celebrated.”

For further details and to pre purchase ride tickets, head to the school’s Facebook page or visit the office at 1-9 Argyle Park Road, Bowen.