From the Principal

Celebrating Achievement and Effort at Every Level

It has been an excellent term so far — a very busy one, packed within a short time frame. It is hard to believe we have already passed the halfway mark.

A Memorable Farewell to Year 12

Our Year 12 students completed their HSC examinations last Friday, and that evening we celebrated their graduation with a wonderful event marking the conclusion of their Kinross Wolaroi journey. I could not be more proud of the mature and impressive manner in which they finished their schooling with us.

Their gratitude for their friendships, teachers, and for all that the School has given them was evident throughout the evening. It was a truly special occasion, and a fitting finale to their time at Kinross Wolaroi.

In the weeks leading up to Graduation, we received outstanding news from NESA — the State authority overseeing education in NSW — regarding the exceptional practical works and performances of our Year 12 students. Once again, we have received an extraordinary number of nominations: 35 in total. (New nominations in Visual Arts and English Extension are found at the end of this article)

This remarkable achievement reflects the breadth of talent and dedication within our student body and, importantly, the professionalism, commitment, and expertise of our outstanding teaching staff. Each year, our teachers guide students to achieve superb results — a testament to their dedication as educators.

The Power of Perseverance — Phoebe Litchfield

As we move toward the end of the academic year, with exams and assessments upon us, it is timely to reflect on what truly drives success. It is not luck or talent alone, but hard work, determination, and perseverance.

Few examples illustrate this better than Phoebe Litchfield (2021) one of Australia’s brightest cricket stars and a proud former student of Kinross Wolaroi School.

Our Australian Women’s Cricket Team recently competed in the World Cup in India, where Phoebe’s performances were exceptional — including a brilliant century in the semi-final. Her rise to international cricket is an inspiring story of focus and dedication.

From her early days training on our school oval to balancing study, travel, and national representation, Phoebe demonstrated unwavering discipline, commitment, and passion. Her achievements remind us that success is earned through effort, resilience, and a love for what you do.

Phoebe’s humility, calmness under pressure, and authenticity reflect the values she developed here at Kinross Wolaroi. As students prepare for final assessments, I encourage you all to follow her example: set your goals high, work hard, and persevere. Hard work opens doors — sometimes even to the world stage.

Celebrating Excellence in Science

We have also received wonderful news from the Young Scientist Awards for 2025. Congratulations to Nethuli Pathirana (Year 10) for her project on “The effect of storage temperature on Free Fatty Acid levels and rancidity in Canola Oil” and Holly Bennett (Year 12) for her project “Reproductive Rate of Maiden Ewes and the Relationship with Liveweight at Mating and Birth Type.”

Their research has been recognised among the best student-based scientific investigations in Australia. This is the third consecutive year that Kinross Wolaroi students have received national recognition, and the first time a Year 10 student has achieved this distinction.

Community Spirit on Display - Pink Stumps Day

Our students have also demonstrated great community spirit through the Pink Stumps Day initiative, supporting the McGrath Foundation’s vital work with cancer patients.

Led by our Round Square Service Leaders and Rev Sally, students, families, and staff together raised over $20,000. Many students walked the equivalent of two marathons — over 80 kilometres each — in an incredible effort that exemplifies our strong sense of community and service.

Exploring Pathways - Try-a-Trade Fair

A number of our Year 10 and 11 students represented the School admirably at the Try-a-Trade Fair at the Orange Function Centre. Exhibitors spoke highly of their courtesy, enthusiasm, and thoughtful questions about the vocational pathways on display.

My sincere thanks to those students for being such splendid ambassadors for Kinross Wolaroi.

Inspiring Alumni - Nedd Brockman

We were also delighted to hear that Nedd Brockman (Class of 2020) has been named the 2026 NSW Young Australian of the Year.

Many will remember Nedd’s inspiring address at our 2023 Speech Day, where he shared his story of endurance and purpose. Since his remarkable 2022 run across Australia from Perth to Bondi Beach, Nedd has continued to raise millions to support those experiencing homelessness through Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge.

His leadership, generosity, and determination embody the very essence of our School’s mission — to nurture individuals who go on to make a positive difference in the world.

Looking Ahead

As we head into the final stretch of the year, may these examples — of hard work, service, innovation, and compassion — inspire us all. They remind us that success is built on perseverance, gratitude, and a commitment to something greater than ourselves.

Congratulations

Staff Announcements

Staff Appointment – Justin McInnes, Director, Head of Boys’ Boarding

I am delighted to share that Justin McInnes, currently at The Scots College in Sydney, will be joining Kinross Wolaroi School with his family in 2026.  Justin will take on the role of leading our boys’ boarding community, bringing with him a wealth of experience and passion for boarding life.

Since 2022, Justin has served as Director of Boarding at Scots, where he has overseen the entire boarding operation.  His leadership has encompassed promoting the boarding experience, managing the operational aspects for a 200 strong community, setting strategic direction and ensuring the recruitment, induction and ongoing development of the staff team.

With more than a decade of experience in roles such as Resident Tutor, Assistant Housemaster, Boarding Housemaster and Director of Boarding, Justin brings deep expertise and a strong commitment to the holistic development of young people. 

Justin’s approach to education places the boarder at the heart of every decision. He is committed to fostering a lifelong love of learning and nurturing a growth mindset in all young people under his care.  Justin values the development of the whole person, giving equal importance to character, wellbeing, and faith alongside academic achievement.  His philosophy ensures that education extends beyond the classroom, shaping individuals who are confident, compassionate, and prepared for life.

Justin’s academic disciplines include Computing Studies, Media Studies and Commerce and Business Studies.  He has a Bachelor of Technology from Swinburne University of Technology, a Diploma of Education from the University New England and has completed the 18-month Scots College Leadership Program.

We are delighted to welcome Justin and his young family to Kinross Wolaroi School, and we look forward to the energy, vision and positive impact he will bring to boys’ boarding and to our broader school community.

Staff Appointment – Darren McLeish, Director, Human Resources

It is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Mr Darren McLeish as Director of Human Resources at Kinross Wolaroi School.

Darren brings a wealth of experience to this role, having worked extensively across the Human Resources and Safety sector. His career spans diverse industries including education, manufacturing, transport and logistics, financial services and aged care.

Most recently, Darren served as Human Resources Manager for the Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst. In this capacity, he collaborated closely with school principals, assistant principals and both teaching and support staff across 33 primary and secondary schools within the Diocese.

Darren holds a Bachelor of Education from La Trobe University in Victoria, along with Advanced Diplomas in Management, Business and Human Resources, as well as a Diploma in Business (Human Resources) from TAFE NSW.

He will officially commence his role with us on Wednesday, 12 November. Please join me in extending a very warm welcome to Darren as he becomes part of the Kinross Wolaroi School community.

Staff Resignation – Adam Harrison – Head of Sport

It is with both gratitude and sadness that I announce the resignation of Mr Adam Harrison from the staff of Kinross Wolaroi School.

Adam joined the School in April 2021 as Master in Charge of Rowing, Science Teacher and Boarding Assistant. In November 2023, he was appointed Head of Sport.

Since his arrival, Adam has made an extraordinary contribution to the School’s rowing program, leading a remarkable resurgence on both the State and National stage. Under his leadership, Kinross Wolaroi has become one of the most successful school rowing programs in the country. Many young athletes have been inspired, coached and supported to reach their full potential.

In 2022, the Schoolgirl First VIII claimed victory at the Head of the River, accompanied by six medals at the Australian Rowing Championships (1 Gold, 3 Silver and 2 Bronze). The following year, KWS secured 11 State medals and 4 National medals. As Head of Sport, Adam continued to coach and played an integral role in the School’s most successful National Championships in 2024, achieving 10 national medals and 13 at the State level, including coaching the Australian record-breaking Schoolboy Coxed Quad.

The 2025 season further cemented this legacy, with another 10-medal haul and an historic campaign at the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta in the United Kingdom. The Fawley Cup crew progressed to the second round of 16, and the Prince Philip crew reached the semi-finals on the iconic Saturday of racing.

Adam’s vision, leadership and commitment to excellence have left an enduring impact on Kinross Wolaroi Rowing and the broader sporting community. Several young athletes have gone on to represent Australia and secure prestigious university scholarships in the United States.

Beyond rowing, Adam’s excellent organisation, communication and leadership skills have seen him thrive as Head of Sport. His care and support of our Gap students have also been exceptional, with he and his family going to great lengths to ensure they were well cared for during term time and holidays.

Adam has decided to pursue new opportunities, and I have no doubt he will continue to apply his skills and passions with great success.

We thank Adam for his outstanding service and wish him and his family every success in the future.

Staff Resignation – Mr Sam Bettle – Strength and Conditioning

It is with mixed feelings that I accept the resignation of Mr Sam Bettle who has made a marvellous contribution to KWS over the past two years, leading our Strength and Conditioning programs and supporting many sports activities.

Sam’s energy, skills and passion for what he does has seen him guide and inspire many students to strive to be their very best and have ensured a high level of student enjoyment and engagement. His leadership of our new Weight Training Facility has been exceptional.  Sam’s willingness to go over and above in supporting staff and students in so many of the activities we offer has earned him great respect.

Sam will return to Sydney to complete his university studies at the University of Sydney and reengage with the University sporting programs.

We are most grateful for Sam’s contribution to our school and wish him very success in his future endeavours.