North Stradbroke Island’s Dunwich State School scores a massive goal with Transit Systems’ support

Thursday 07 March 2024

Australia’s largest multi-model transport operator, Transit Systems, has collaborated with Dunwich State School students and Minjerribah artist Nathaniel Chapman, proud Goenpul/Yuggera man of North Stradbroke Island/Brisbane City, to design and fund all new sports shirts with bespoke local artwork.

With the new sport shirt contribution, Transit Systems QLD will also unveil a new, specially wrapped school bus featuring the same artwork as the shirts.

The name of the bus was revealed at a special school assembly on Tuesday morning, called “Jarjum Journey”, which was approved by the Elders in Council on the island and translates to children’s journey.

The brand-new school bus is a Volvo IRIZAR B8R, a fully seat belted vehicle with CCTV and air conditioning. The new bus was funded through the Department of Transport and Main Roads' School Bus Upgrade Scheme.

Shaun Gannon, Operations Manager at Transit Systems North Stradbroke Island, said the bespoke shirts and mesmerising new bus will immerse passengers and the community with the beauty of the local natural environment.

"We are proud to support Dunwich State School with the supply of new sports shirts and to showcase the talents of Nathaniel in championing the local environment.

"We recognise the importance of investing in initiatives that empower our youth and strengthen the bonds within our community, and the collaborated efforts reflect our deep commitment to the community, with respect to the local culture, waterways and land,” he said.

The artwork featured on the shirts and the school bus showcases a vibrant display of dolphins, a humpback whale, an eagle and a sea turtle, all surrounded in a kaleidoscope of colour from the sea and sun.

Students from Dunwich State School worked alongside Nathaniel to bring their creative visions to life.

"This initiative not only enhances the school's spirit, but also promotes creativity and unity among our 2200 island residents, and the 200 plus students we service on the island each day,” he said.

In addition to the sponsorship and the school bus initiative, Transit Systems Queensland remains committed to ensuring the safety of students during their daily commute. The company will soon launch a collaborative safe school presentation to educate students about safe bus travel practices.

"We prioritise the safety and well-being of all our passengers, especially the students, ensuring they are confident and comfortable getting to where they need to go," said Shaun.

In addition to providing school services in Queensland, Transit Systems also operates school services across New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria, Northern Territory and Western Australia.