REVEALED: Ipswich’s top high school achievers for 2021
Despite another year of disruption due to Covid-19, Ipswich students have thrived. Now, the region’s highest achieving students and Dux awardees have been revealed.
Ipswich
Don't miss out on the headlines from Ipswich. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Through what has been another tumultuous year for high school students, Ipswich teenagers have excelled.
The Queensland Times has compiled a list of the region’s highest achievers for the year, including Dux award recipients and other academically and socially thriving students.
Many schools are yet to finalise or award their Dux, due to the newly-introduced ATAR system.
Congratulations to all who did their best this year and to Ipswich’s outstanding teachers.
BREMER STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Ashlynn Dowling
Since joining Bremer State High School in Year 7, Ashlynn Dowling has set the gold standard for what it means to be an exemplary student.
Her focus and drive to succeed has never wavered as she has consistently demonstrated excellence in all academic pursuits.
Miss Dowling academic achievements include numerous high distinctions and first places in competitions such as Australian National Geography Competition, Eastern Suburbs ANZAC DAY writing challenge, Australian Brain Bee Challenge and the Premier’s Coding Challenge.
Despite the stress and difficulty of Year 11 and 12, she has continued to succeed.
She swept the school’s subject prizes and has herself excellently placed before External Exams.
In spite of the complexities of maintaining such a high standard, Miss Dowling still managed to complete two university courses in her senior years, achieving a High Distinction in both.
She has also served the school admirably as Vice-Captain.
“Bremer State High School is very proud of her and wishes her the very best. We can’t wait to hear about the amazing things she will do next,” the school said.
BUNDAMBA STATE SECONDARY COLLEGE
Albert Sandor
Since a young age here at Bundamba State Secondary College, Albert Sandor has carried himself with distinction across all aspects of schooling life.
“Albert is disciplined, determined and has always had a clear vision for his future,” the college said.
“His primary goal of joining ADFA has become a reality earlier this year as he was accepted and has enrolled at the University of NSW Canberra, studying Electrical Engineering.
“His discipline and dedication throughout year 10 and 11 served him well in preparation for year 12.”
He carries himself with distinction and was rewarded with College Captain for 2021 and has led upheld the College values of Pride, Respect, Responsibility and Empowerment at an exemplary level.
He has been able to successfully manage his year 12 demands resulting in placing himself top student after the first three internal assessments.
“The Bundamba community wishes Albert well for the future,” the college said.
IPSWICH GIRLS’ GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Amandi Jayawardena
Amandi Jayawardena is a Year 12 student at Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School and one of the 2021 Head Girls.
Having attended Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School including Ipswich Junior Grammar School since Year 1, she has always worked hard and has now set her sights on studying medicine after graduating from school later this month.
“My goal is to study medicine and my first preference is Monash University in Melbourne, due to the structure and duration of its medicine program,” she said.
“I have looked into postgraduate study and am leaning towards specialising in paediatrics or dermatology.”
“The teachers have been great at preparing us for university and are always there if we need support.
“We are in control of our own studies and we need to be proactive and seek support when we need it.
“ The School has also given us lots of information about tertiary options and had guest speakers in from different universities to talk about accommodation on campus.”
As well as balancing Year 12 studies, she is one of the 2021 Head Girls and has the added responsibility of writing and delivering speeches at important school events throughout the year.
She credits her family for supporting her throughout the year, keeping her on track with her studies and overall wellbeing.
IPSWICH GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Hamish Cassidy
Hamish Cassidy began at Ipswich Grammar School in Prep and is now just a few short days away from finishing Year 12.
An all-rounder, Hamish is the school’s top performing academic students and has been awarded Dux every year from Year 7 to Year 11 (the Dux of Year 12 won’t be awarded until the boys final academic results are released in December).
At Awards Night, he will be awarded subject prizes for Performing Arts, German, Chemistry and share the prize for Specialist mathematics as well as the Stan Slipper Prize for Personal Achievement, Dedication and Inspiration.
Mr Cassidy is well respected by his peers and has been recognised several times for his leadership abilities being awarded the roles of both Prefect and Arts Captain.
The Arts is where his passion is, he plays clarinet, saxophone and flute and is hoping to study a Bachelor of Music at the Conservatorium next year with a focus on the future as a classical performer.
LAIDLEY STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Tamiara Pollock and Shayana Shepley
Congratulations to both Tamiara Pollock and Shayana Shepley for receiving the Australian Institute of Physics award for excellence in physics.
This award is presented to students who have received 90 per cent or greater on their internal assessment items.
Both students have produced work of a consistently high standard not only in physics but across all their subjects throughout their senior years.
“We wish both girls all the best for their future studies and career paths,” a school representative said.
LOCKYER DISTRICT HIGH SCHOOL
Catherine Scanlan
Lockyer District High School is extremely proud of their 2021 Provisional Dux, and 2020-21 School Vice-Captain, Catherine Scanlan.
In 2021, she became only the second student in the school’s history to achieve Gold Badges in all four areas represented by the school’s crest, demonstrating outstanding achievements and excellence across academic, citizenship, cultural, and sporting endeavours.
From academic excellence awards, to Darling Downs School Sporting representation, to involvement in school cultural activities and vital leadership roles, she has exemplified a truly all around performance and was also named as the Year 12 Best All Rounder (previously the Caltex All Rounder award).
REDBANK PLAINS STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Tristan Green
“The Redbank Plains State High School Awards Night was held on Tuesday 16 November,” a school representative said.
“Our annual awards ceremony is an opportunity to recognise, reward and celebrate outstanding student achievement, academic and co-curricular.
“Year 12 student, Tristan Green is one of our school’s top performing students for 2021 with academic excellence in the subjects Digital Solutions, Chemistry, maths Methods, Modern History, and Physics.”
He received the University of Southern Queensland Excellence Award which recognises a Year 12 student who is an exemplary member of the school and wider community, and has maintained high levels of academic achievement.
ROSEWOOD STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Kelsey McRae
Rosewood State High School awarded its Dux last week to Kelsey McRae.
She was also given academic awards for five subjects: physics, chemistry, math methods, specialist math and english, and received the University of Queensland Award and the Principal Award.
Kelsey completed Year 9 and 10 in the same year in 2019. Upon moving into Year 11 in 2020, she decided to complete Year 12 chemistry and physics in the same year, topping both of her classes. A specialist math subject was brought into the school for her to complete in her final year.
Kelsey also sat the UCAT exam in July this year to gain entry into medicine. She has applied to study medicine at a university in Tasmania, and bio-medical science in Brisbane and Central Queensland. She already has an interview lined up with Central Queensland University.
ST AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE
Zoe Watts
Zoe Watts is one of the highest achieving students at St Augustine’s College, Augustine Heights, graduating as a recipient of the College’s most prestigious award, the Tolle Lege, recognising outstanding performance as a lifelong learner.
She earned this award, having performed at the highest academic level.
She studied Mathematical Methods, Literature, Study of Religion, Biology and Psychology, while also completing a Certificate III in Fitness.
In addition, Zoe is active in College Life, as a College Captain and star athlete.
Miss Watts has applied to the University of Queensland for a double degree - Bachelor of Arts (Writing)/Bachelor of Communication (Digital Media).
“I thoroughly enjoyed Literature, as reading and writing is my passion,” she said.
“I hope to pursue a writing career in the future, and my inspiration to pursue writing stems from my English teachers, from those in Year 10 when I lived in Perth, to my literature teacher, Mrs Gannaway, and Head of English, Ms English, at St Augustine’s College.”
ST EDMUND’S COLLEGE
Kobie Low
“During my time as an Eddie’s student, I had the opportunity to study subjects I am passionate about and learn from dedicated teachers who share that passion,” Mr Low said.
“My senior subjects were Specialist mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, English and Study of Religion.
“I really enjoyed all my subjects, but the mathematics and science subjects have always been my favourites.
“I eventually want to study medicine, but am required to do an undergraduate degree first.
“I’ve applied for a Bachelor of Advanced science at UQ for next year and I’m hoping that they accept me so that I can continue learning about things that I enjoy, while also progressing towards my goal of medicine.”
Patrick Schmidt
“In my final two years at St Edmunds, I studied Physics, Chemistry, English, Study of Religion, Specialist Mathematics and Mathematical Methods. Next year I am hoping to study a Bachelor of mathematics at UQ,” Mr Schmidt said.
“My love of maths was fostered by the passion of the teaching staff at Eddies.
“Throughout my academic journey, I found that it was important to take advantage of opportunities, and expand my horizons beyond only my studies.
“I was involved in a variety of sporting and cultural activities including cricket, football, basketball, athletics, cross country and band.
“While I wasn’t the best at all of these pursuits, they gave balance to my heavy academic and leadership commitments. I will look back fondly at my time at Eddies and I look forward to the next chapter.”
ST MARY’S COLLEGE IPSWICH
Hannah Nugent
St Mary’s College Ipswich student Hannah Nugent has excelled academically this year, taking advantage of the College’s diverse and dynamic curriculum offerings.
Miss Nugent was the College’s top performer in Physics, Specialist mathematics, Mathematical Methods and Study of Religion.
Notably, Miss Nugent achieved 100% in her Year 12 Internal Assessment for Mathematical Methods and 98% for Physics.
She was awarded a Certificate of Excellence in Physics from the Australian Institute of Physics and received the University of Southern Queensland Excellence Award at the recent St Mary’s College Awards Night.
“I have always loved problem solving and critical thinking, which got me interested in maths and Physics,” she said.
“It’s the real-life applications of mathematics and science, though, that I am most intrigued by and excited about.”
In her senior years Hannah also undertook a Certificate II in Engineering Pathways and a Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot).
Delivered across Years 11 and 12, these courses involved the construction and flying of drones, with the opportunity to receive a CASA certified Remote Pilot (drone) licence.
She is looking forward to pursuing a career in Engineering.
STAINES MEMORIAL COLLEGE
Lillian Gillespie
Lillian first started at Staines Memorial College in 2014 when she was in Year 5.
Lillian studied subjects including English, General mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Legal Studies, and Sport and Recreation, excelling with her studies.
Lillian served the College as College Captain throughout 2021.
Marnie Cilento
Marnie first started at Staines Memorial College in 2014 when she was in Year 5.
Marnie has always excelled at academics, studying subjects including English, Mathematical Methods, Biology, Chemistry, Sport and Recreation, and Faith and Life.
Throughout Year 12, Marnie served the College as a Prefect, and participated in Volleyball as an extra curricular sport.
Post school, Marnie hopes to study a Bachelor of Education.
THE SPRINGFIELD ANGLICAN COLLEGE
Judy Magirin
Judy has been with the College since her first day in Prep and she has represented the school in sports, debating, volunteering and music.
She has valued her education and made the most of every opportunity presented to her.
She is a ready volunteer, showing high levels of commitment and loyalty in many events ranging from the coaching the Year 9 Debating team and the Rosies Outreach Program.
Judy applies herself diligently to her studies and demonstrates a strong desire to challenge herself and an ability to work positively in a team environment.
She has explored and been successful in every part of College life and represents everything that we value in a student.
“Judy’s friendly nature has enhanced College life over the last thirteen years, and the College wish her all the best for her future,” Springfield Anglican College said.
WEST MORETON ANGLICAN COLLEGE
James Segon
WestMAC House captain James Segon will have to find a new trophy cabinet for all the accolades he has achieved this year in a variety of areas in the College, as well as beyond campus borders.
As a 225 Air force Cadet Squadron Corporal, James won a 2021 Queensland Defence Innovators Award as well as the Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award.
James is steadily working towards his dream of becoming a fighter jet pilot having moved to the final stage of being accepted in the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) with next week’s interview with the Officer Selection Board in Canberra.
He has already passed four selection exams including medical, physical and aptitude while he plans to study a Bachelor of science majoring in Physics and Aviation at the Australian National University while part of the ADFA.
His WestMAC achievements include: Swimming Captain, Cross Country Captain, House Captain for Lawson achieving the Senior School House Shield and Interhouse Shield and Academic highest achiever in Chemistry.
“WestMAC has helped to inspire me to reach for my dream of becoming a fast jet pilot, operating either a Growler or Hornet aircraft, especially the College’s amazing Defence program led by our Defence mentor Jenny Sheehan while it is handy the 225 Air force Cadet Squadron is based on our campus,’’ he said.
“I admire my swimming and sporting coaches because of their commitment while the teachers have helped me achieve my academic goals especially in my favourite subjects of Chemistry and Physics.
“After completing three years of university and military studies, I will receive my ‘Flying Wings’, (a) gold badge that entitles me to fly.
“It’s very difficult to become a jet pilot because they only take the top percentage, I hope I’m one of the very small percentage of people who get to live their dream of being a fighter jet pilot.’’
Margaret Hayes
Champion West Moreton Anglican College public speaker Margaret Hayes’ 2021 could not have started more successfully, as one of only five regional finalists who competed in the prestigious Lions Youth of the Year 2021 District Final on the Gold Coast in March.
The WestMAC Public Speaking and Debating Captain competed in the Q1 District which covers an area of more than 600 kilometres including Brisbane, west to St George, and south to the Northern Rivers of New South Wales.
Margaret, a product of West Moreton Anglican College’s award-winning public speaking and debating program, represented the Rosewood Lions Club and WestMAC after winning the regional final against Boonah and Fassifern representatives.
“As WestMAC Public Speaking and Debating Captain, I’m very excited and proud to reach the district final and bring more awareness around the importance of accessing extra-curricular activities such as public speaking, debating, community work and leadership all here at school,’’ she said.
“Here at WestMAC I’m grateful for the many extra-curricular and leadership opportunities we receive and the encouragement and dedication of our teachers.’’
Margaret led WestMAC’s Debating team in competitions this year and her positive leadership around the College community was recognised at the Presentation Night as the recipient of the prestigious Foundation Chair’s Cup for Outstanding Student Leadership.
Margaret co-founded the student-led Social Justice Committee and as part of this group created awareness for indigenous students with an annual indigenous Walk while she also helped to organise the College’s Reconciliation Games which involved all Senior School students participating in traditional and ancient indigenous games.
Margaret hopes to study a Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics next year.
“I would like to use my skills to shape public policy for the benefit of all people while also working within the political system to ensure the voices of the underprivileged and under-represented are heard,’’ she said.
WESTSIDE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
Rebekah Friesen
“Rebekah Friesen is humble and unafraid of a challenge,” Westside Christian College said.
“(My mother) inspires me to do the best I can, to just keep working hard,” Miss Friesen said.
“But she also reminds to have a break and just have fun. That’s important.
“My break from the busyness of life is music. My father, he played guitar and passed on this love on to me.”
When she’s not performing in ensembles, the accomplished multi-instrumentalist and vocalist can be heard playing in her local church.
Rebekah graduates Westside Christian College as the APCCS Academic Excellence Award Winner for 2021, the Year 12 Subject Award Winner for Biology, Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Music, Music Extension and as Senior Musician of the Year.
Rebekah has been approved for an early offer at QUT, for a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory science.
“I am passionate about learning and understanding the intricacies of the body and how complex it is.”
WOODCREST STATE COLLEGE
Christian Risco
Woodcrest State College student Christian Ricco has excelled in his final year of secondary school.
Never one to shy away from a challenge, not only has Christian done a fabulous job as a School Captain in the College student leadership team, he has also achieved outstanding academic results.
At the recent College Awards Evening, Christian was one of two Year 12 students who received an Outstanding Academic Achievement Award.
Additionally, he was awarded the subject prize for English, Mathematical Methods, and Philosophy and Reasoning as well as the USQ Excellence Award.
Christian has contributed to school life in a variety of ways including playing an influential role on the Student Council and as being a valued member of the College STEM & Robotics Team.
In 2022 Christian hopes to study Secondary Education next year and specialise in Math and a science.
“Woodcrest State College can’t wait to see what Christian achieves next,” a spokesperson for the school said.
Igno Jansen Van Rensburg
Igno Jansen Van Rensburg has had a wonderful final year at Woodcrest State College.
At the College’s recent College Awards Evening Igno was recognised for his ingenuity as the recipient of the Year 12 ADF Future Innovators Award.
Igno is passionate about innovation and STEM and has shared his expertise with students across the College’s P – 12 Campus and represented the school as part of the Robotics Club which showcased their ingenuity at the FTC Nationals in Sydney.
As a School Captain Igno has inspired his peers across the school consistently demonstrating the College’s core values of Respect, Responsibility and Resilience.
“College staff have no doubt that Igno will continue to inspire and innovate with whoever he collaborates with as he embarks on his pathway to tertiary studies studying Law,” Woodcrest State College said.
To contribute a high achieving Year 12 student or school Dux to this feature email jessica.baker@news.com.au.
SEE MORE: Find a full list of Southeast Queensland’s highest achieving Year 12 students in 2021 here.
Police fears for missing teenage girls
Police say they hold concerns for two teenage girls missing from the Ipswich area since Monday who may be trying to travel to Cairns.
Ipswich sale and auction results, week ending September 15
There were 39 properties sold in Ipswich last week, with 98 new listings in the region. See the latest auction and sales results.