Alice Springs School of the Air celebrates 75 years of outback education
The Alice Springs School of the Air (ASSOA) celebrated its extraordinary 75th anniversary milestone in Term 2 2026, marking more than 7 decades of learning.
Established on 8 June 1951, ASSOA was the first school of its kind anywhere in the world, inventing a 'classroom without walls' that revolutionised remote education and created a vital lifeline for families across Central Australia.
The special anniversary event brought together multiple generations of the ASSOA family, with current and former students, alumni, long-serving teachers and remote families travelling from across the Territory to reflect on this proud legacy.
The formal proceedings included addresses from Department of Education and Training Chief Executive Susan Bowden and Principal Kerrie Russell, alongside the unveiling of a beautiful new commemorative artwork.
Current students Conor and Maeve Martin also stole the spotlight, showing themselves to be consummate professionals during their interviews for TV and radio broadcasts on the ABC.
'We have a proud history of delivering high-quality education to children and young people across the outback and that is worth celebrating,' said Principal Kerrie Russell.
Following the formalities, the celebration moved to the school courtyard for a relaxed afternoon tea, giving old friends, retired educators and distant neighbours a chance to reconnect.
The youngest generation of ASSOA students made sure the day ended on a high note, thoroughly enjoying the cupcakes and the jumping castle to cap off a historic afternoon.
Congratulations to the ASSOA!
