Community
21 January, 2026
Three Rs made clearer
THE first 17 graduates of a program teaching adult literacy have graduated at Mossman.
The Literacy for Life Foundation, based in Front Street, Mossman, has successfully delivered its first adult literacy campaign on Kuku Yalanji Country, marking an important milestone for the community.
The foundation, co-founded by Professor Jack Beetson, is an Aboriginal-led organisation dedicated to improving adult literacy in First Nations communities.
Following successful delivery in Yarrabah and ahead of expansion into Cairns and Mapoon, Mossman started its first literacy campaign last year during NAIDOC Week on July 31.
Local community members Dakota Bowen and Kapreece Swindley led the initial classroom delivery, supported by campaign coordinator Jody Wallace. Their work was strengthened by steady engagement from families, Elders and local organisations.
Ms Wallace said the campaign marked a meaningful step forward for Mossman.
“We have achieved so much this year, watching students’ confidence build alongside their literacy skills. Being our first time running in Mossman, I feel the class has supported us just as much as we supported them to success,” she said.
Classes concluded last month, with 17 participants graduating on 15 December.
Campaign project officer Skye Bickford praised the team’s dedication.
“It’s been an adventure, full of laughs and learning. It’s an honour to be part of this first journey. Preparations are already underway for the next intake planned for February 2026,” she said.
Facilitator Dakota Bowen said the impact reached beyond basic literacy.
“We’ve worked alongside local agencies throughout our ‘Everyday Literacy’ classes to help students and their extended families become more familiar with the services in the Shire.” she said. “It’s been a successful campaign, and we’re excited about the positive impacts this will have.”
The first term of 2026 will start on February 29.
