Welcome to Spinifex State College - Mount Isa
As the largest secondary school in North West Queensland, we are proud to provide a high-quality education to students from Mount Isa and surrounding communities. Ours is a college built on opportunity, connection, and a deep belief in the potential of every young person.
We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we learn and grow, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. We recognise the deep and enduring connection that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to Country, culture, and community, and we are committed to embedding this knowledge, respect, and understanding into the life of our college.
At Spinifex, we are three campuses – one college: Junior, Senior, and Boarding. While each campus has its own identity, we are united by shared values, high expectations, and a collective commitment to student success. We are also four houses – one family: Moondarra, Julius, Leichhardt, and Rifle — fostering belonging, pride, and teamwork across our college.
Our vision is to develop clever, skilled, and creative Spinifex graduates. We are equally committed to ensuring that our students develop a strong sense of identity, belonging, and cultural understanding. We value and celebrate the rich cultural diversity of our community, particularly the knowledge, stories, and perspectives of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and families.
Teaching and learning at Spinifex is designed to meet the diverse needs of our students. We work in partnership with families and community to understand each young person's strengths and challenges, ensuring learning is purposeful, personalised, and supportive. We believe that strong cultural identity and strong learning go hand in hand.
At the heart of our college are clear expectations for all learners:
- We are safe
- We are respectful
- We are responsible
These values guide how we learn, how we interact, and how we contribute to our community.
Our approach to teaching and learning places students at the centre. We empower every learner to understand and take responsibility for their progress. At Spinifex, students are encouraged to confidently answer:
- What am I learning?
- How am I going?
- How do I know?
- How can I improve?
- Where can I go for help?
Through this, we build not only academic success, but also independence, confidence, and lifelong learning habits.
Strong partnerships are essential to achieving the best outcomes for our students. We place great importance on working alongside families, community members, and local organisations. Our partnerships with groups such as Glencore and TAFE provide authentic learning opportunities, while our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee plays an important role in guiding our work and strengthening cultural connections within our college.
I cannot emphasise enough the importance of parent and carer involvement. Whether it is ensuring regular attendance, celebrating success, attending interviews, or contributing to our school community — your partnership is vital. Together, we create a supportive environment where every student can succeed.
At Spinifex, we believe leadership is collective. It is grounded in respect, connection, and looking out for one another — values that are deeply embedded in both our local community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Here in Mount Isa, we see this every time our community comes together in times of challenge. It is this spirit of care, resilience, and shared responsibility that shapes who we are as a college.
Since being appointed Principal, I have been continually inspired by the strength of the Spinifex community. There is something special about this place — the pride, the connection to Country, and the way people support one another.
Spinifex State College is more than a school — it is a community, a family, and a place where young people are supported to grow, achieve, and create their future.
State schools are great schools, and Spinifex State College is one of the best.
Tom Bates
Principal
Spinifex State College – Mount Isa
