Principal's Report

Celebrating a Proud Alumni: Professor Graeme Leslie Stephens 

At Woodmans Hill Secondary College, we are proud to celebrate the achievements of one of our most distinguished alumni – Professor Graeme Leslie Stephens AC FRS – whose journey from Ballarat East High School to global recognition in climate science stands as a powerful reminder of where curiosity, education and perseverance can lead. 

Professor Stephens is an internationally renowned atmospheric scientist whose career has spanned continents and decades. After completing his PhD in meteorology at the University of Melbourne, he went on to lead pioneering research into cloud physics, climate systems and Earth’s energy balance. His leadership of NASA’s CloudSat mission transformed our understanding of clouds and their role in climate change. His contributions have been acknowledged with honours from the U.S. National Academy of Engineering, the Royal Society, and most recently, as a Companion of the Order of Australia in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours. 

What makes this recognition even more meaningful for our community is the connection to his roots. Professor Stephens’ story began in the classrooms of Ballarat East High School – the very foundation of our current school – where a love of science first took hold. 

That same spirit is alive and well at Woodmans Hill Secondary College today. Our commitment to STEAM education – Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics – is about more than just classroom learning. It’s about creating opportunities for students to explore, investigate and innovate. From robotics and coding to design challenges and creative problem-solving, we are equipping our students with the skills and mindset needed for the future. 

We are also committed to recognising and celebrating the achievements of our former students through our developing alumni program. As we continue to grow this initiative, we invite members of our community to nominate or share stories of past students who have gone on to make a meaningful impact in their fields. Our goal is to build strong connections between the past, present, and future of our College – and to inspire today’s students through the remarkable journeys of those who came before them. If you have any of these stories please feel free to email them through to woodmans.hill.sc@education.vic.gov.au  

Professor Stephens’ journey is a powerful example of what’s possible. His legacy reminds us that great things can begin in local classrooms – and that the next generation of changemakers, scientists, and innovators could very well be sitting in ours today. 

I hope that his achievements inspire all of us – staff, students and families – to keep fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and ambition. We have incredible potential here at Woodmans Hill Secondary College!