Since opening its’ doors on 26 January 1959, Bremer State High School has proudly served generations of Ipswich families, building a rich legacy grounded in community, resilience, and innovation. Our original campus was located on Blackstone Road in Silkstone, with Mr Wesley Donaldson Napier appointed as the school’s first Principal.
In 2011, after more than 50 years at the Silkstone site, Bremer relocated to a new, purpose-built facility on Warwick Road, closer to the Ipswich CBD. This move was prompted by both land instability at the original site and the need for a larger, modern campus to support our growing student population. Today, our school sits proudly on its new site, continuing to serve as a centre of learning, growth, and opportunity.
Our school colours and uniform have evolved over time. The original colours, light grey and yellow, are believed to have been chosen in an unexpected and charming way: Principal Napier, when asked for colour suggestions, looked to the curtains in his home for inspiration. Grey curtains decorated with lemons became the basis for the school’s original palette.
With the 2011 campus move came a refreshed identity. Blue was added to our colour scheme to symbolise the educational journey of our students, from local primary schools (many of which wear blue) to our then-neighbour, the University of Queensland, who’s branding was blue at the time. Today, we share a boundary with UniSQ, whose colours include yellow, further strengthening the continuity of colour across each stage of our students' educational pathways.
From the very beginning, Bremer took a bold and respectful approach to naming our school houses. Rather than following the common tradition of honouring explorers or political figures, our founding leaders chose to celebrate First Nations language and culture. Our first three houses were named using Aboriginal words for colours:
- Mardango – Red
- Narganoo – Green
- Torarenna – Blue
In the mid-1960s, a fourth house, Kara Kara (meaning Black), was added. The earliest known record of Kara Kara's house spirit dates back to 1965, when they won the Inter-House Basketball competition.
Continuing this cultural appreciation, our school magazine was named “Durian,” a local Aboriginal word meaning “Message.”
Established in 1985, the Great Bremer Canoe Race has become one of our school’s most beloved traditions. What started as a spirited and creative challenge continues to unite students, staff, and alumni alike in a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and good-natured competition. Learn more about the event on our dedicated Great Bremer Canoe Race page.
Bremer is a school that honours tradition while embracing innovation. Across the year, we host a range of signature events that bring our community together and celebrate student achievement, talent, and leadership. These include:
Major Annual Events:
- Leadership Induction Ceremony
- ANZAC Day Ceremony
- Year 12 Graduation
- Academic Awards Morning and Night
- Sports Awards Night
- The Great Bremer Canoe Race
Other annual school events we enjoy each year include:
- BremerFest
- Swimming, Cross Country, and Athletics Carnivals
- Battle of the Bands
- Variety Night
- Music Under the Stars
- Senior Art Exhibition
- Performing Arts Showcase
- Dance Night
- Multicultural Night
- Year 11 Semi Formal
- Senior Formal
- Senior Mystery Tour
Bremer State High School continues to grow and evolve, but our roots run deep. We honour our past, embrace the present and look forward to an exciting future shaped by the values, traditions and spirit that have defined Bremer for more than six decades.
Donate your Memorabilia:
Please consider donating your treasured memorabilia to the school, where it will be preserved and displayed for all to enjoy.
To find out more about donating, please email info@bremershs.eq.edu.au