Captains' Farewell

Farewell 

Presented below is the farewell speech that was delivered by our school captains, Lilah Newell and Jarvis Dobson, on behalf of all Year 6 students at the Graduation Mass last Friday. 

Although this chapter has come to an end, the story is far from over. Let’s take a moment to reflect on all the memories we’ve created since kindergarten. Today is a significant day for all of us as we come together to celebrate seven years of growth and learning alongside the people who have taught and inspired us along the way.

Good morning, Father, Sister Kathryn, Mr O’Toole, Mrs Holland, teachers, parents, students and special guests. We are Jarvis Dobson and Lilah Newell, the school captains of St Joseph's for 2024. Today, we have the honour of speaking on behalf of all the Year 6 students.

Serving as school captains has been an incredibly enjoyable experience, and we feel truly privileged to be part of such an amazing school. Although we are now heading off in different directions for high school, our time as school captains and Year 6 leaders has been unforgettable. We’ve shared so many fun and memorable moments as a class, and we hope you will cherish them just as much as we will.

We’ve created countless cherished memories, from cross country and school discos to swimming and athletics carnivals, our unforgettable trips to Canberra and Lake Burrendong, and so many other moments we’ll treasure forever.

A recent highlight of our time at St Joseph’s was the Canberra excursion. We had the opportunity to enjoy amazing activities like Questacon, Geoscience, and many others! Of course, we also visited iconic landmarks such as the War Memorial and Parliament House. But the Year 6 favorite was, drumroll please… the AIS!

Our school community is incredibly fortunate to have such a supportive and encouraging Parish Priest, Father Sabu, even though you couldn’t make it here today, we would like to thank you for the wonderful masses you’ve celebrated and the visits you’ve made to our school this year. Thank you Sister Kathryn for your involvement in school masses and organising special liturgies. 

A heartfelt thank you also goes to our school principals, Mr O’Toole and Mrs Holland, as well as all the teachers who have guided us throughout our journey at St Joey’s - your dedication has left a lasting impact.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our amazing and supportive parents and guardians. You have stood by us every step of the way, offering guidance and encouragement. While we may not always express our growing appreciation, we are deeply grateful for the wisdom and support you’ve provided throughout our primary years.

We can’t forget our special, talented, and vibrant Year 6 class. Let’s take a moment to congratulate them for thriving throughout our time at St Joey’s and for all the accomplishments they should be incredibly proud of. Each of you brings something unique, with talents ranging from runners, basketball players, and writers to mathematicians, soccer players, swimmers, horse riders, gymnasts, artists, and of course, comedians. If we tried to list all of our talents, we'd be here all day!

To the Year 6 class – moving from the familiar faces and surroundings of St Joey’s to a new school, with new teachers and routines, may feel daunting at first. However, we are confident that once you’re there, you will be just as confident as you are here. Remember to embrace the exciting challenges and endless opportunities high school will bring. Though we may be leaving Joey’s, the memories we’ve created here will be cherished forever.

The values that St Joseph's has instilled in us will continue to help us grow and guide us. We’ve been taught to be safe, respectful learners, and I encourage you all to let this be your guide. As we move on to high school, let’s commit to embracing new challenges, continuing to grow, and supporting each other as we take the next step in our journey.

So for the very last time, on behalf of Year 6, 2024  St Joseph's, we thank you! Goodbye and good luck to our fellow classmates!