Alumni Visit 

Recently our Year 9 students took part in a Career Immersion Day, designed to give them an insight into Year 10 subject choices and some career pathways available beyond school.

We welcomed back five alumni who shared their journeys from Ballarat High School to a wide range of careers. Students heard from construction business owner Paige Gercovich (Class of 2016), Police Sergeant Mick Downes (Class of 1985), archaeologist and business owner Jodie Mitchell (Class of 1987), paramedic Alexander Cairns (Class of 2001) and Jessica Hodge (Class of 2020), Sales Coordinator for Conferences and Events at Village Roadshow Theme Parks in Queensland.

The panel spoke candidly about the twists and turns of their careers, the opportunities they embraced and the lessons they learned along the way. Mick reflected on being a third-generation Ballarat High alumnus and the varied challenges of policing. Paige shared her passion for architecture, design and innovation, including being involved in one of Australia's first 3D-printed homes. Alex spoke about following his interests in health and sport into paramedicine, while Jess shared how a gap year in Canada eventually led her to a career helping bring events to life at Australia's leading theme parks. Jodie inspired students with her journey to university as a mature-age student and her 20-year career in archaeology.

A common theme throughout the session was the importance of pursuing something you genuinely enjoy and remaining open to opportunities along the way.

We thank Paige, Mick, Jodie, Alex and Jess for giving up their time to return to Ballarat High School and inspire the next generation as they begin thinking about their own futures.

In Term 2, Melissa Battye from the Class of 2019, joined our Year 12s at their fundraising night - a night aimed at dressing up, having fun, creating memories and fundraising for mental health, specifically the James Petrie Foundation. 

Melissa, a Mental Health Clinician with Grampians Health, spoke to the students about ways to manage stress, not just this year but in years to come. Knowing the signs, learning ways to calm the body, maintaining balance, the importance of sleep, seeking support and looking after each other, were a few of the topics addressed. 

We thank Melissa for giving up her Friday night, to generously give back to our 2026 cohort!

Get in touch if you’re a former student and want to be a part of our program alumni@ballaraths.net 

Eliza Hopkinson

Alumni Coordinator