From the Principal

Dr Andrew Parry

Congratulations and Farewell to the Class of 2024

As we farewell the graduating class of 2024, I want to acknowledge not just their achievements, of which there have been many, but the values they have demonstrated throughout their time here.  

 

Many of our graduates are exceptional musicians, athletes, dramatists, scholars and leaders. Beyond those accomplishments, what truly makes me proud is the way they have contributed to the life of our School community, showing commitment, kindness, and a willingness to serve others.  It is the choices we make today that shape our future character, and they have chosen well. 

 

This cohort have shown us through their actions a genuine care and concern for the welfare of others, particularly for those whose life journeys have been less fortunate than our own. They have proven time and time again to be resilient, dedicated and supportive of one another. I want to particularly acknowledge our school leaders, the Prefects, our Head Prefects and Captains for their outstanding service, example and commitment. To every member of this graduating class, thank you for your contributions.  You have made our school a better place, and we are deeply grateful.

 

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the dedication of our teachers and staff.  Your passion for education, your care, and your guidance have been instrumental in assisting our students reach this milestone. On behalf of our students, parents and the entire school community, I extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you.

 

To our parents and families, congratulations. This moment is not just a celebration of your child’s accomplishments, but also a recognition of your unwavering support throughout their journey.  We know that the road has not always been smooth, but your love, patience and encouragement have brought them here today. Thank you for entrusting us with your children and for the countless hours you have devoted to supporting school activities and fostering our very special community.

 

To our graduates, who walked across the stage today, know that we are proud of you – not just for your academic success, but for the individuals you have become.  You have approached school life with great enthusiasm and have been dedicated and determined in your desire to learn. Remember, that your academic results do not define you. Life is much bigger than exams and qualifications.  Your true success lies in the choices you make from this moment onward. It is how you live your life, the kindness you show, the respect you give, and the contributions you make to your community that will truly matter.

 

I have been enormously impressed by your openness, friendliness and ‘can do’ attitude.  You have integrity and authenticity, highly admirable qualities that have been shaped by your regional backgrounds and the country spirit that pervades our school community. This combined with your natural confidence and warmth are highly valuable personal attributes that you must never lose.

 

As you commence your journeys into the future, please allow me to share a little advice on what I believe may help you lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. 

 

First, resist the temptation to define success solely by wealth or status. True success is about living a life of purpose, contributing to the wellbeing of others, and staying true to your values. As Albert Einstein wisely said, “try not to become a person of success, but rather try to become a person of value”.

 

Second, seek happiness not in fleeting pleasures but in contentment and compassion.  The most enduring happiness comes from a heart that is open, kind and willing to give.

 

Third, follow your moral compass.  In a world full of noise and distractions, stay true to yourself, your hopes and your principles.  Learn from your mistakes, embrace failure as a teacher, and always strive to act with integrity. Ralph Waldo Emerson, the 19th Century American poet and philosopher once said: 

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us”. Your inner strength, your values and dreams will guide you through life’s challenges.

 

Fourth, be resilient, life will inevitably throw challenges your way, but it’s in those moments of stillness, when you pause and reflect, that you will find strength and persevere.  Know when to push forward and when to find peace in what you have.

 

And fifth, embrace the call to serve others.  In a world that can sometimes feel divided, commit to justice, equality and the dignity of every person, regardless of their background or beliefs. Use your voice and influence to lift others up, particularly those who may not have the same advantages.

 

In the end, what matters most is not what you achieve, but the positive impact you have on others.  If you can amplify the voices of the unheard, to extend kindness to those in need, and make the world a little brighter for others, you will have lived a life worth celebrating.

 

Finally, as you step into the next chapter of your life, hold onto the friendships you’ve made here.  These are the people who have shared your journey, who have seen you grow, and who will continue to support you in the years ahead.

 

Cherish those bonds – they are some of the most valuable treasures life has to offer, and remember, you are forever part of this community.

 

To the graduating class of 2024, we wish you every success in the years to come. May you leave here with confidence, compassion and a commitment to making the world a better place.

 

It has been an honour to be part of your journey and we look forward to seeing the great things you achieve in the future.

 

Congratulations and thank you.

Missed the 2024 Graduation Ceremony?

You can enjoy a recording of the ceremony at the link below:

 

WATCH THE 2024 GRADUATION CEREMONY

Dux of School 2024: William Haseler

Congratulations to William Haseler, who has been awarded Dux of Kinross Wolaroi School at today's Graduation Ceremony. William studies English Advanced, Mathematics Advanced, Mathematics Extension 1 and 2, Chemistry, Physics and Economics. 

 

William has shown exceptional dedication to his studies, consistently putting in long hours of focused work. This has served to inspire his peers and has had a positive impact on the working environment in the boarding house during Prep. His leadership qualities have shone through in the way he helps and supports his peers both academically and socially. He has a strong sense of responsibility and care for his community and is someone who leads by example. William embodies the values of hard work, leadership, and kindness. He has made an overwhelmingly positive impact on the school and boarding community and for that I would like to thank him. I know that he will continue to strive for excellence.

Graduation Awards 

Congratulations to all of our Year 12 Awardees!

The Ex-Students' Association Family Heritage AwardKristy Finlay
The Ex-Students' Association Family Heritage AwardNiamh Webster
  
The Cooey Mutton Shield Angus Croft
The Cooey Mutton Shield Samuel Fabar
The Cooey Mutton Shield Hannah Goodsir
The Cooey Mutton Shield Charles Hansen
The Cooey Mutton Shield William Knight
The Cooey Mutton Shield Liam McKenzie
The Cooey Mutton Shield Campbell Miller
The Cooey Mutton Shield Emma Northam
The Cooey Mutton Shield Lolli-Rose Pasquali
The Cooey Mutton Shield Angus Pengilly
The Cooey Mutton Shield Nina Smedley
The Cooey Mutton Shield Ava Tucker
The Cooey Mutton Shield Lucia Varian
  
Orange NAIDOC Week Completion of Year 12 Award Halle Doyle
Orange NAIDOC Week Completion of Year 12 Award Blake Dwyer
Orange NAIDOC Week Completion of Year 12 Award Logan Knight
Orange NAIDOC Week Completion of Year 12 Award Georgia Williams
  
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Blackman House Prefect Sophie Smith
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Brown House Prefect Lucy Ashton
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Dean House Prefect Jamie Anderson
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Douglas House Prefect Zoe Bird
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Gordon House Prefect Alice Wilson
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for McLachlan House Prefect Ava Petersen
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Richards House Prefect William Haseler
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Williams House Prefect Charles Anderson
  
Prize for Captain of Loader HouseAmaya Shipp
G S Weingarth Shield (Miller House)Charlotte Ivey
B Geale & R Hancock Trophy (New House)Hannah McKay
Prize for Captain of Tower HouseAngus Ervin
G Hilder Trophy for Co-operation and Initiative (Weymouth House)Rhys Bonnington
Glen Eden Prize for Captain of Wolaroi HouseHarrison Shea
  
The Taylor Family Prize for Girl Senior Boarder PrefectAimee Zell
The Taylor Family Prize for Boy Senior Boarder PrefectJames Cooper
  
The Chaplain's Prize for Notable Faith/Life BalanceAbigail Palin
  
Gold Duke of Edinburgh AwardJemima McLeod
Gold Duke of Edinburgh AwardJessica Taylor
  
Gold Duke of Edinburgh AwardHalle Doyle
J R and M C Glasson Trophy for the Head Girl PrefectHalle Doyle
School Council’s Prize of a Bible for the Head PrefectHalle Doyle
  
Rotary Club of Orange Prize for the Head Boy PrefectEdward Southwell
School Council’s Prize of a Bible for the Head Prefect Edward Southwell
  
Susan Gordon Cup for Best All-Round SportswomanSienna Whalan
  
The WDJ Dean Award for Outstanding Service by a CadetWilliam Steventon
The Verity Warn Shield for the Senior CUO of the KWS Cadet Unit Claire Nelson
  
Skerman Trophy for Sportsmanship, Leadership and School Spirit (Boys)Charles Hansen
Ex-Students’ Association Prize for Outstanding EffortCharles Hansen
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Deputy Head PrefectCharles Hansen
  
Wellwood Shield for Sportsmanship, Leadership and School Spirit (Girls)Lucy Ashton
The Janette Brown Prize for PianoforteLucy Ashton
The Newtown Developments Prize for Studies of ReligionLucy Ashton
Gold Duke of Edinburgh AwardLucy Ashton
  
Reuben F Scarf Award for Commitment, Consistent Effort and the Desire to ImproveLaura Atkinson
Ex-Students’ Association Prize for Outstanding EffortAva Petersen
Ex-Students’ Association Prize for Outstanding EffortMatilda Quigley
  
A M Wilson Memorial Award for CitizenshipEmily Zell
Gold Duke of Edinburgh AwardEmily Zell
  
Sue and Tamara Eisenhauer Prize for AgricultureKaitlyn Rutledge
  
BLD Hewson-Vernon Prize for Ancient HistoryAlice Wilson
  
Jeanette Hall Prize for Senior ArtIvy Hawker
Emma Hansen Award for Excellence in Practical Work in ArtIvy Hawker
Mrs Nan Dean Prize for Outstanding Achievement in Music Ivy Hawker
Robin Thompson Prize for Stringed InstrumentsIvy Hawker
  
Mark & Cherie Byrnes Prize for Business StudiesZoe Bird
Hando Family Prize for HospitalityZoe Bird
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Standard English Zoe Bird
Ex-Students’ Association Prize for Outstanding EffortZoe Bird
  
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Community and Family Studies Aimee Zell
Ex-Students’ Association Prize for Outstanding EffortAimee Zell
  
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Design & Technology Lars Nolles
  
Newcrest Mining CVO Prize for Earth and Environmental ScienceKristy Finlay
  
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for English StudiesJack Pursell
  
JB Maltman Memorial Prize for GeographyThomas Poulton
  
Edcon Steel Prize for Industrial TechnologyHenry McColl
  
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Legal Studies Iona Anderson
  
Cummins Prize for Modern HistoryApril Bragg
Ex-Students’ Association Prize for Outstanding EffortApril Bragg
  
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Music 1Scarlett Gee
  
Winifred Chapman Cup for MusicAlex Caban
Greg Howard Prize for Excellence in Brass PerformanceAlex Caban
  
The Mel Meek Prize for Primary IndustriesCharles Stephenson
  
Prize for Academic ExcellenceLaynee Visser
  
K C Low Family Prize for BiologyScarlett MacKenzie
Ex-Students’ Association Prize for Outstanding EffortScarlett MacKenzie
Prize for Academic ExcellenceScarlett MacKenzie
  
Prize for Academic ExcellenceZachariah Levi
  
G H Ridge Memorial Prize for Extension HistoryNina Smedley
Prize for Mathematics StandardNina Smedley
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for Deputy Head PrefectNina Smedley
Prize for Academic ExcellenceNina Smedley
  
Calder Family Prize for DramaNiamh Webster
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for English Advanced Niamh Webster
Suzanne Dawes Prize for FrenchNiamh Webster
Kinross Wolaroi School Prize for French ExtensionNiamh Webster
Ex-Students’ Association Prize for Outstanding EffortNiamh Webster
Caltex Best All Rounder AwardNiamh Webster
Prize for Academic ExcellenceNiamh Webster
  
P&F Award for Excellence in Practical Work - Textiles and DesignMaggie Anderson
Ex-Students’ Association Prize for Outstanding EffortMaggie Anderson
Gold Duke of Edinburgh AwardMaggie Anderson
Prize for Academic ExcellenceMaggie Anderson
  
Wolaroi College Shield for Best All-Round SportsmanGeorge Wakem
Sean Ngu and Craig Smith Prize for PDHPEGeorge Wakem
Chris and Suzie Brown Prize for Academic ExcellenceGeorge Wakem
  
McE D’Hudson Memorial Prize for EnglishTessa Lawson
Year 12 Prize for Textiles and DesignTessa Lawson
J B Caldwell Family Prize for Proxime Accessit to the DuxTessa Lawson
  
Sean Ngu and Foong Takaunlao Prize for ChemistryWilliam Haseler
Westpac Trophy for Senior EconomicsWilliam Haseler
WG Stewart Prize for MathematicsWilliam Haseler
W D J Dean Prize for PhysicsWilliam Haseler
Ex-Students’ Association Prize for Outstanding EffortWilliam Haseler
Carolyn Roweth Prize for the Dux of Kinross Wolaroi SchoolWilliam Haseler

HSC Achievements

It is exciting to see a number of achievements already coming in for our HSC students in performance and major works. These are listed below:

 

ENCORE

Congratulations to Alex Caban, whose HSC Music Performance has been nominated for inclusion in ENCORE. ENCORE presents a selection of outstanding major works by HSC Music students in NSW including performance, composition and musicology. It will be held at the Sydney Opera House onMonday 24 February 2025.

 

On STAGE

The following student's Individual Performances have been nominated for possible inclusion in OnSTAGE:

Digby GulliverNed
Edward SouthwellThe Death of Two Men
Niamh WebsterMr Clown

The following students Group Performances have been nominated for possible inclusion in OnSTAGE:

Cadence AustinDooms Day Dancing 
Alexia ChallitaStiff Business 
Halle DoyleFoxy Pirates 
Scarlett GeeFoxy Pirates 
Digby GulliverStiff Business 
Audrey HedleyDooms Day Dancing 
Edward SouthwellStiff Business 
Niamh WebsterFoxy Pirates 
Georgia WilliamsDooms Day Dancing 

OnSTAGE is an annual showcase of HSC Drama performances and individual projects and will be held at the Seymour Centre from Saturday 8 February to Friday 14 February 2025.

 

SHAPE - Industrial Technology

The following Industrial Technology student/s work/s from your school has/have been nominated for possible inclusion in SHAPE. Congratulations to:

Robert Burke

Samuel Fabar

Cameron Hoskin

Nicholas Nash

Gus O'Neill

Jack Pursell

 

SHAPE - Textiles and Design

Congratulations to Maggie Anderson, Tessa Lawson, Elke Sweetapple and Scarlett MacKenzie, whose Textiles and Design major work has been nominated for possible inclusion in SHAPE. 

 

SHAPE is a selection of outstanding works from HSC Design and Technology, Industrial Technology and Textiles and Design students and will be held at the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct from March 2025.