We are thrilled to share the incredible experience our six sustainability students had at the Global Link Queensland Competition, held at the breathtaking Tangalooma Island Resort. This internationally recognised educational event, hosted on Moreton Island, provided a unique opportunity for primary and secondary school students to engage in meaningful discussions about environmental issues with their peers and local environmental leaders.

Surrounded by pristine national and marine parks, Tangalooma served as the perfect backdrop for our students to immerse themselves in various environmental experiences. This world-leading event is renowned for fostering connections between students from diverse cultures and backgrounds, allowing them to develop essential skills in leadership, presentation, critical thinking, and bilingual communication.

This year, we proudly sent three Year 11 students and three Year 7 students to represent our school in both the senior and junior school categories of the competition. Over the course of three days, our students participated in a range of activities, including dolphin feeding, whale watching, and tree planting. They also engaged in global discussions and presented on pressing environmental issues, showcasing their dedication and passion for sustainability.

Our students' participation in this event not only highlighted their commitment to environmental stewardship but also provided them with invaluable experiences and connections that will inspire them for years to come. We congratulate our students on their outstanding efforts and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will continue to make in our community and beyond.

“On the 31st of July at 5am, 6 students were getting ready to present their ideas at the 4th annual Global Link conference at Tangalooma Island. Our three-day trip started with exploring the island, viewing shipwrecks, and feeding dolphins – Matilda and I fed Storm, the leader of the dolphin pod. The next day was competition day. Representing A.B. Paterson College, our presentation on ‘Lack of Sustainable Frameworks in Schools’ placed us 3rd overall against students from Japan, Thailand, and Australia. The third day saw us connecting with students, planting trees and cruising around Moreton Island on a magical whale watching cruise. Thank you to Ms Beckett and Ms Harker for their support throughout this amazing opportunity. If you are in Years 4-12 and would like to join Sustainability Club, meetings are held every Tuesday lunchtime in Winton 4.” - Molly Read – Year 11

“As the junior team from A.B. Paterson College, we absolutely adored our time at global link. We had so much fun sharing our ideas about how to implement sustainable practises into our school canteen and found the judges feedback so helpful! The highlight of our trip would be socialising with other schools and listening to ways they have sustainability in their schools. We are so grateful to have had this amazing opportunity to interact with schools all over the world, over all different age groups. Learning from the experts at Tangalooma Island Resort about marine life was so interesting, and our entire stay there was the epitome of enjoyment.” - Sophie Magee – Year 7

Kiana Sloane | Science Teacher