ALUMNI Program
Wangaratta High School
Year 10 Careers Insight Session
At the end of last term, our Year 10 students participated in a Careers Insight Session featuring four WHS alumni from a wide range of fields and graduation eras.
We were delighted to welcome:
- Blair Archer (Class of 2013), Disability Inclusion Coordinator
- Daniel Steel (Class of 2003), Senior Fisheries Officer
- Grant Wilson (Class of 1976), Civil Engineer
Kerrie McLeish (Class of 1990), Legal Counsel at Haileybury
A strong takeaway from the discussion was that career pathways are rarely straight lines. Kerrie spoke honestly about trying different roles, including spending a year working in a pub, before gaining clarity about her future direction. Her advice encouraged students to stay curious, talk to people, and remain open to opportunities.
Daniel gave students a glimpse into the adventurous side of his role, sharing stories of tracking illegal fishing operations that sometimes involve crawling through dense bushland. Blair reflected on starting out in business before finding a career aligned with his values, while Grant transported students back to the 1970s, a time before computers, calculators and mobile phones, highlighting how much both work and school life has changed.
When asked by teacher Harry Hildebrand what WHS gave them growing up, all four alumni agreed that the friendships formed at school remain one of the most lasting and valuable outcomes. The panel also acknowledged the different challenges students face today, particularly with technology and social media shaping modern social experiences.
We have four sessions scheduled for Term 2, including sessions with Year 12 Chemistry students, VCE VM students, a reflective talk with a former WHS Principal, and a Careers Insight Session with Year 11 and 12 Legal Studies students.
Alumni Program Impact in 2025
By the end of 2025, the WHS Alumni Program has achieved remarkable progress:
- 9 alumni sessions held
- 268 student attendances across sessions
- 20 alumni involved in sharing expertise and experiences
- 111 new alumni added to the alumni database
- 7 work experience placements offered by alumni
1,034 followers on WHS alumni social media pages
These outcomes reflect the strength of our alumni community and the dedication of our part‑time Alumni Program Coordinator, whose work continues to build meaningful connections that benefit both students and alumni.
We are proud of the way WHS alumni are giving back, inspiring students with real-world perspectives and reminding us all that once you’re part of the WHS community, that connection lasts well beyond the school gates.
Stay Connected!
Join our Alumni and school community on Facebook and Instagram to stay in touch.
Join the Alumni Program!
Do you, or someone you know, want to join the Wangaratta High School Alumni Program? By joining the program, you can stay updated on school events, reconnect with old friends and teachers, and even help inspire the next generation of Wangaratta High School students.
To join our alumni community and get involved, please complete the form on our webpage https://www.whs.vic.edu.au/alumni/ or email us at alumni@whs.vic.edu.au with your contact details, and Megan De Fazio will be in touch with you.
Stay tuned for more updates and events as we continue to grow and strengthen our alumni network!