CQUniversity campuses unite to support Indigenous Literacy Day

By Katelyn Dunn

CQUniversity staff and students marked Indigenous Literacy Day through events on the Rockhampton and Bundaberg campuses last week, highlighting the importance of literacy and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices and stories.

At Rockhampton North Campus, CQUniversity Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Champions Tiff Blake and Jen Frazer coordinated the University's inaugural Great Book Swap, raising funds for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF).

A call for book donations among colleagues resulted in more than 280 books being collected, including 180 adult titles and 100 children's books, creating a community library of sorts for the fundraiser.

The event encouraged staff and students to swap or purchase pre-loved books, with 15 books swapped, 40 adult books purchased and 10 children's books sold. Additional books were also donated on the day.

The fundraiser has so far raised $374 for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, with donations still open through the University's Great Book Swap fundraising page.

Ms Frazer said the support shown by the University community was overwhelming.

"We would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported the event, from those who donated books and volunteered on the day, to the staff and students who came along and supported the Indigenous Literacy Foundation," she said.

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation works with remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia to provide access to books, literacy programs and culturally relevant resources. According to the foundation, every $10 raised helps put a book into a child's hands.

Following the success of the event, organisers are planning to hold another Great Book Swap in 2027, with interest already emerging from other CQUniversity campuses.

Meanwhile, staff and students at Bundaberg Campus gathered at The Refectory for an Indigenous Literacy Day Book Drive, with donated books being donated to not-for-profit Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation IWC.

The event provided an opportunity for participants to come together, share stories and recognise the importance of literacy and Indigenous voices, while reflecting on the role reading plays in building understanding and connection.

Through activities across both campuses, the CQUniversity community joined a nationwide celebration of Indigenous Literacy Day, supporting literacy and learning outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Donations are still open for CQU's Great Book Swap fundraiser, with all funds raised going to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.