Douglas Shire students are being given a rare opportunity to take part in the prestigious Wakakirri National Story-Dance Festival, a nationwide program designed to boost student engagement and wellbeing through the performing arts.

Thanks to a successful scholarship application, St Augustine’s Primary School in Mossman has secured a place in this year’s competition - and is opening the invitation to all Year 5 and 6 students across the Douglas Cluster, not just their own school community.

Elizabeth Ottone from St Augustine’s said she wanted the opportunity to be shared more broadly, especially after the Shire's difficult start to the year.

“When I applied for the scholarship, I spoke about how badly the Shire was affected by the flooding in the aftermath of Cyclone Jasper,” she said.

“I thought it only fair to open the invitation to all Year 5 and 6 students in the Douglas Cluster, as our students weren’t the only ones that suffered.”

Wakakirri, which means “to dance” in the language of the Wangaaypuwan people, encourages students to express themselves through dance and storytelling, aiming to inspire positive change through creativity.

This year’s theme, Mind Over Matter: Tales of Inner Strength, will be brought to life through a performance titled Caught in the Web, which explores the negative impact of social media on children.

“We have never participated before, so we’re very excited to compete for the first time,” Ms Ottone said.

“Ideally, we’d love to have around 40 students involved, but we can take up to 120."

Weekly rehearsals will be held every Wednesday from 3.30pm to 4.30pm in the undercover area of St Augustine’s. 

Staff will supervise any students who arrive early, and sessions will include learning the dance as well as designing costumes and props.

“We want to build community spirit,” Ms Ottone said.