In 1934, the Bowen State School community was shaken by the sudden and tragic death of one of its young students, Don Power. Remembered for his bright spirit and cheerful nature, Don’s passing cast a shadow not only over the school, but over the entire Bowen community.
Newspaper reports from the time describe Don as a happy, energetic boy — a “good scout” who was well liked among his peers. On the day of his death, Don had returned home for lunch, as was customary, and came back to school in good health. Moments later, while playing in the schoolyard, he suddenly collapsed. Whether the cause was an asthma attack or choking incident remains unclear. In a heartbreaking twist, the doctor who was called from nearby to attend to the emergency soon realised he was treating his own son.
Four years later, on Wednesday 23rd November 1938, a memorial ceremony was held at the school in Don’s honour. An established weeping fig tree, planted in 1934 by Head Teacher Mr H. Jenkins, was formally dedicated to Don’s memory by then-principal Mr A.W.L. Russell. Though Don’s father, Dr F.G. Power, had since resigned from his post at Bowen Hospital, he sent Colonel Heron to represent the family.
The Townsville Daily Bulletin reported:
“Memory took them back to the day exactly four years ago when Don Power’s sudden death had cast a gloom not only over the school, but over the whole town… He was a lovable boy, full of character and vigour, a good scout and boy who liked his church.”
At the ceremony, two boys were called upon to unveil a handsome bronze plaque, shrouded in the folds of a Union Jack. The inscription read:
“Don Power Tree – In memory of a school mate – 21st November 1934.”
Over the years, as new buildings were constructed, the tree remained a silent and steady presence — until it suffered significant cyclone damage in the mid-1980s. The Works Department constructed a timber support frame in an effort to preserve it, but during the Building the Education Revolution works in 2010, the ailing tree was eventually removed to make way for the library’s computer lab extension.
Though the tree is gone, the bronze memorial plaque was carefully preserved. It can now be found mounted on the brick wall behind the G Block drinking taps, where Don Power’s legacy continues to be remembered by generations of students.