Tweed Shire’s inspiring 2023 school student leaders share their aspirations
More than 100 Tweed school student leaders have shared their aspirations, dreams and wins – like successfully lobbying council for new goalposts. Meet the inspiring group.
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Student leaders from across the Tweed Shire have been working hard to motivate and inspire their fellow students as the school year rolls on.
From budding athletes to teachers, police officers, lawyers, doctors, and a marine biologist, the young stars in the making have shared what they are most looking forward to this year and what they hope to achieve.
Meet the inspiring young group.
Banora Point High School
Betty Ward – school captain
Betty feels “very lucky” to be one of Banora Point High’s school captains.
An avid netballer, Betty said she loves meeting new people and learning their backgrounds and interests.
Some of her passions include cooking, baking, and reading.
“As school captain I act as a representative for the students of my school and as a representative for the school in the wider community,” she said.
A self-proclaimed people-person, Betty aims to encourage and inspire her school community and provide a voice for the school, students, and staff.
Students participated in interviews with their principal and submitted a filmed speech that was voted on by their peers and staff.
“I’ve been a part of our schools SRC since year 9 and have been active in the school community since I was in year 7, so thought I would make a good school captain because of this,” Betty said.
Betty applied for the job because she believes being involved in the school community is “so important”.
“I decided to pursue this position because I hope to inspire younger grades to have more of a say and to be able to have the confidence to participate in the school community,” she said.
Her goals include making the most of her time at school to encourage learning, confidence in the school community to raise issues, and to make a safe space for everyone to feel heard, safe and welcomed.
“I would like to work toward believing that school is not the be all and end all and what happens, happens.”
Elli Steel – school captain
Elli said her role as captain involves being a role model, leader – someone who sets a positive example and someone others can look up to.
“My role also involves attending important ceremonies such as Anzac Day services. I also find ways to further improve our wonderful school,” Elli said.
“I study English, maths, PE, Biology, Hospitality and Sports Coaching.
“I grew up playing multiple sports but I now play soccer for Gold Coast United.”
The young leader plans on attending college in the USA for soccer. She also has ambitions to be a police officer.
“I’ve always wanted to be school captain as I believe I am a good leader and wanted to be able to help make a positive impact on our school,” she said.
Elli’s passions and goals include having a positive impact on those around her and performing well in her studies.
Jorja Goodwin, vice-captain
“I enjoy painting and making art in my spare time. I’m very passionate about creative and performing arts, mainly visual arts,” Jorja said.
“I support both of the school captains Betty and Elli. I step in to assist if either of the captains are sick or injured. We work as a team when it comes to decision making.
“I pursued this position to further my leadership experience and to make a change in as many aspects as I could at my school including the CAPA faculty (creative and performing arts).
“I also wanted to support the students in the younger grades needing help mentally and with their education.
“My goal for this year personally is to just have fun and experience everything as a school leader.
“My goals also include helping to promote the inclusion in CAPA programs and other subjects such as drama, visual arts and photography.
Tweed River High School
Jaydee Weir – school captain
“I am a proud Minjungbal/Bundjalung young woman from Tweed Heads,” Jaydee said.
“I actively partake in SRC events, and advocate for students.
“I decided to pursue this position to be able to represent all kinds of students as well as myself.
“My passions at school are legal studies and my goal for this year is to graduate and successfully gain my HSC, as well as an ATAR score that I will be proud of, and to further pursue law in order to continue advocating for all people in society.”
Rylee Ogston – school captain
“I am a proud Wiradjuri woman, originally from Condobolin and I am now one of the school captains at Tweed River High School,” Rylee said.
“I pursued this position in order to become a student voice, assisting with school events, and running SRC events.
“I am passionate about being a voice for the students and advocating for people that don’t have a voice.
“I am also passionate about maths and PE at school. I hope to get a good ATAR that can allow me access to University and possibly pursue a teaching career.
“I am also passionate about community service and respect for our history and I recently spoke at the Anzac Dawn Service about Lieutenant Frederick William Bell.”
Lilly De Belle – vice-captain
“I am vice-captain of Tweed River High School. This involves organising the SRC, planning events, and speaking in front of the school at assemblies,” Lilly said.
“I decided to pursue this position to better develop my leadership skills, and represent the students of our school. I also like to help organise fun events for us to participate in.
“My passions in school are science and maths. I do seven units of science, including biology, chemistry, physics, and extension science, and four units of maths, advanced, extension 1, and extension 2.
“Along with this, I am also enrolled in the Griffith University guest program for chemistry and physics.
” love these subjects and couldn’t see myself doing anything else, which makes it easy to do well in them.
“My goal is to achieve a high ATAR so I can pursue medicine in my tertiary studies.”
Chenoa Lowe – vice-captain
“My position as vice-captain involves being a leader to the students of the school and representing the school in the best way possible, while pursuing leadership roles,” Chenoa said.
“I decided to be a school leader because I want to have responsibilities in my student life and of course to make a good reputation for our school in front of teachers, parents, principals and the public community.
“I also want to improve the school spirit and help make school a fun place to be.
“My passions involve going to my favourite subjects including marine studies and English.
“I also love being involved in SRC activities and volunteering at events.
“My goals this year would be to provide a good school spirit to peers and excel in my classes and leadership roles.”
St Joseph‘s College
Willow Trimboli – college captain
“In my role, I aim to inspire others to be the best versions of themselves and to lead by example particularly through participating in the many different arts, sporting and academic opportunities we have at the college,” Willow said.
“To earn this position, I was elected by the student body and I gave a speech in front of the school. From there, students and teachers voted for the candidate they thought would be the best student representative for the college.
“I decided to nominate for this position as I want to make a difference and improve the school community so that students can have the best experience at the college.
“I love participating in many of the various activities offered at the college and enjoy studying ancient history and English at school.
“My goals for this year are to increase student participation in college events and to achieve the ATAR I require to be accepted into the University of Queensland next year.”
Thomas Busbridge – assistant house captain, Hanly House
“I am able to help encourage younger students to participate in carnival days but also have a duty to hear them out if they would like something to happen in our house or school, so that it might make our school a better place for all,” Thomas said.
“My duty is to provide support to our house captain and help make sure our carnival days run smoothly.
“I also look to get the younger grades involved in the variety of things we have to offer at the college.
“Late last year, other seniors and I came up with our theme for 2023 of “Strive Together” (Romans 15:30).
“We chose this to have more participation in the school while striving together as one school while helping each other to achieve personal goals.
“To earn the position of house captain I had to present about why I believe I should be selected for it. Some of the reasons I was elected was because I have been an active member in the community helping out at things like You Have a Friend (charity).
“I wanted to pursue this position to become a role model for younger students and therefore set an example for them in participating in the events and opportunities that are provided at the college.
“I was excited to learn about the new leadership skills I would gain from this experience in teaching and influencing others.
“My passions at school include sporting opportunities and cultural activities.
“I enjoy doing things like participating in service opportunities like You Have a Friend.
“Some goals I have for this year would be to receive the great honour of college captain, or another leadership role so I might be able to remain a role model for all students.
“I also hope to do well in all of my subjects so that I might be able to do my teachers proud in getting good grades.”
Tyson Smith – year 11 house representative, Reynolds
“I wear my badge with honour and pride as I am not only a voice for my grade, but even a voice for the younger grades so we all get a say,” Tyson said.
“To earn this position, I was elected through my grade and voted in by my peers. I wrote a description of myself to display to the school and waited for peers to vote for me.
“I am the voice for the younger grades of Reynolds.
“I persevere through the school and strive together with my peers to keep morale and academics up.
“I decided this position would be good to pursue as this may give me chances for bigger roles in the years to come to help maintain and improve the school and its students.
“I love science subjects such as chemistry and physics. By pursuing these subjects I get a wider idea of how the world works in different concepts.
“The maths department has helped me a tremendous amount with the Maths Accelerated program, which helps me finish my HSC a year earlier.
“The English department helps me write and prepare essays and can help me apply them to real world situations.
“My main goal in this position is to encourage participation throughout all houses, not just mine.
“I believe the right opportunities open up for you, but you have to apply yourself to get the results.”
Banora Point Public School
Allyssa Lateo – school captain
Allyssa said she likes meeting with her principal and discussing new things to help her school.
She also likes helping out with school functions.
“I love my position because it’s involved with helping out with my peers and planning fun things for our whole school to enjoy,” Allyssa said.
The year 6 student wanted to follow in her brother’s footsteps.
“He went for it in 2019 and it was lots of fun for him,” she said.
Although it was “really scary” the first time speaking in front of the whole school, Allyssa said she got through it and now “it’s just an easy thing for me”.
“My passion is sports. I love going out and just having fun,” she said.
“I’ve participated in many primary schools sports association (PSSA) sports.
Alyssa’s goal for 2023 is to help people more often and help make school an environment students really want to attend.
Taj Ogston – school captain
“My position is school captain and it involves helping around the school and helping kids that are upset,” Taj said.
“It also involves going to meetings and helping sell food and meeting with the Principal and giving ideas for things like colour runs at school.”
Taj took on the role because he likes helping out his peers and coming up with good ideas.
“You get to talk to your whole school and make fun stuff for your peers,” he said.
“My passion for my school is helping kids when they need it and playing games.
His goals include coming up with good ideas for the school and helping classmates more often.
Centaur Public School
Melina Greenup – school captain
“My role involves representing the school at special events and activities, with functions to play a role in assemblies too,” Melina said.
“Being a school captain also means obeying the school rules, being a good role model, helping others and being an exemplary student.
“I have been at Centaur since its little sailors’ program.
“I am good at public speaking, and I have represented the school in sports at various state levels.
“I decided to pursue this position as I always encourage and support my fellow schoolmates and believe I could make the school a better place.
“My passions include athletics, touch football, maths, PE and science.
“My goals for this year consist of continuing to represent the school in sport, learning as much as I can before going to high school, assisting and being involved with fundraising for the school and helping to organise fun days, like colour runs and mufti days for the students.”
Jessica Wilcox – school captain
“My role involves running assemblies, being a role model and taking pride in my school. It also involves helping without being asked and going to meetings every week,” Jessica said.
“I decided to pursue this position because I wanted to help people and show them what to do.
“I also wanted to make the school the best place to be by adding cool elements that will help students learn and have fun.
“My passions at school are netball, choir and running assemblies. Also, helping kids and teachers, and learning.
“My goals for this year are to do my best, get good grades, being a good leader and find time to enjoy my hobbies.”
Madison Clark – school captain
“Part of my position involves being a voice for the student body and a role model. As role models, we lead by example and bring new ideas to life,” Madison said.
“I decided to pursue this position because I have looked up to the past leaders ever since I came to this school and always started to do the same.
“My passions at school are leading and helping others with their learning journeys.
“I would like to be able to leave the school in a better position than when I first became school leader.”
Chantelle Zammit – school captain
“My role involves running assemblies and always upholding our school values, respectful, responsible, and ready.”
“I always attend meetings and not only share my opinions, but listen to others.
“I decided to pursue this position as I believed it would help my confidence and leadership skills increase.
“I knew it would be interesting to be a part of a leadership team and was eager to take on the challenge. I also wanted to share my opinions and make a difference for the school, whether it’s a small difference, or a massive one.
“I have many different passions in school, many to do with school sports and my education.
“I have a passion for netball, I have represented Centaur at carnivals and individual trials. I have also represented the school in many other sports, including athletics.
“Aside from sports, I work hard in class to achieve my personal best and take pride in my work.
“By the end of this year, I would like to have an impact on the school and improve my leadership qualities.”
Condong Public School
Dharylle Price – school captain
“I chose to run for school captain because I wanted to be a great leader, someone that the younger students look up to.”
“My position as school captain involves helping the teachers and principal lead the school by helping students to know right from wrong so that they grow up to become good role-models.
“I love hanging out with all my friends here at Condong because they are fun, and kind and they make everyone happy.
“My goal for this year as captain is to ensure that all students continue to be nice and caring.”
Oscar Fullagar – school captain
“I’m proud of my position as school captain.”
“It has plenty of responsibility and I must make sure that I help the staff and students and represent my school to the best of my ability.
“I wanted to become captain so that the younger students can look up to me so they too can be responsible and a great role-model.
“I love learning and am great at maths and sport.
“My goals for this year are to be well-prepared for high school and to continue to be a great role-model and set an example for the future school leaders here at Condong Public School.”
Cudgen Public School
Lawson McIntosh – year 6 school captain
Lawson applied for school captain to be a role model for the younger students.
“As a school leader, we speak at special days such as school assemblies and our annual Easter Hat Parade,” he said.
“We have represented our school at the (Anzac) Dawn Service at Cudgen.”
One of Lawson’s goals at the beginning of the year was to make sure that everyone felt included at school.
“As a leader I promote inclusivity by getting involved in lots of activities so that everyone knows there are opportunities for them too,” he said.
Some of the activities Lawson has been part of include Far North Coast Dance, sports gala days and sports carnivals.
Fraya O‘Dwyer – year 6 school captain
“As a school captain I have a voice in what should happen to our school.”
One of Fraya’s goals for this year is to be the best leader she can be.
“I decided to be a school captain so I can help kids by being a role model and also to inspire younger students to use their voice,” she said.
As a leader, Fraya has represented her school in a variety of events, such as speaking at the Dawn Service at Cudgen.
“The Dawn Service at our school is significant to our community because a lot of servicemen and servicewomen that went to war came from Cudgen,” she said.
“An idea that we initiated as School Leaders here at Cudgen is a student support circle.
“We encouraged students to come and check in with us at lunch to talk about their wellbeing, learning or anything at all.”
Fraya senjoys chatting to other Cudgen kids about what is important in their lives.
Beau Halliday – year 6 school captain
“My passion is sport. One of my goals for being school captain is to bring back the goalposts on the Cudgen Recreational Ground next to our school”
Beau said the goalposts would be beneficial for the students and the wider community.
“I have worked with the other school leaders, and we have put together a proposal and have sent it to Tweed Shire Council,” he said.
“Council has just advised us that we have been successful in our campaign and we now are just waiting for the installation of the goalposts on the oval. We’re so excited.”
Beau has shown initiative in helping set up assemblies and he also speaks at special events.
“I decided to go for school captain because I wanted to help with these events – and I really wanted to bring back the goalposts,” he said.
Lola Barrera – year 6 school captain
Unfortunately, Lola was unavailable at the time of publication. The school wishes her health and every success in 2023.
Dungay Public School
Oliver Gilfillan – school leader
One of 11-year-old Oliver’s main roles is to run the weekly Friday assembly.
“I also help to brainstorm and support fundraising events and I work hard to see them come to life. I almost never miss a day of school,” he said.
“I earned my position as school captain in an election, where I had to write a speech about the commitments I would uphold and the promises I would keep if I was elected.
“I also had to address the five keys to success (persistence, organisation, getting along, confidence, and resilience) and how I achieved them.
“Persistence would be my greatest strength. Recently I demonstrated this through my outstanding effort while training for a school running event.
“I applied for this position so that I could help the students, staff and wider community create a school where we all love to go to school.
“I have had many ideas about how to make lessons more enjoyable such as increased interactive moments with teaching staff.
“For example, I am in constant conversation with my teacher and SLSO about daily learning targets (ways we can meet them), student expectations (maintaining focus), organisation of class groupings (acknowledging peoples’ strengths and weaknesses within the group) and ways “I can support my peers (one-on-one mentoring).
“I am passionate about sport, music, maths and science. In sport, I always participate and help my peers with achieving their sporting goals.
“In music, I enjoy playing the ukulele and work hard to learn all the chords.
“My favourite topic in mathematics is whole number. I am quick and accurate and score highly in this area. I currently hold the title of highest level achieved in Fast Minute Math Drills.
“I love science because it is usually hands-on and (involves) real-life experiences. Albert Einstein is an inspiration for me – he worked hard for his successes, like I do.
“This year I would like to push my limits and see what I can achieve in all areas of schooling and home life.
“I am currently attending the gym developing my wellness and fitness levels.
“Keeping it balanced is something my Mum strongly believes in.”
Duranbah Public School
At Duranbah, every year 6 student has the chance to develop leadership skills and gets opportunities to practice them.
Senior students set an example for others and conduct themselves in a positive way so younger students can learn from them.
Year 6 students are given the chance to speak to others on behalf of our school.
They lead our SRC (Student Representative Council) in meetings and activities and at times they address our P&C.
Year 6 student Jasmine said she has looked up to older school leaders since kindergarten.
“I wondered what it would be like to be in year 6 and after seven years of waiting I am finally one of the leaders of the school,” she said.
“What I love about being in year 6 at our small school is the many opportunities that we get to be a leader.
“Instead of having school captains at our school, everyone is given a go.
“I personally love helping younger students in as many ways as possible, like running lunchtime clubs, assemblies and helping at school events.
“So far, year 6 has been my favourite year and I can’t wait to find out what other leadership opportunities are yet to come.”
Kingscliff Public School
Evie Lloyd – school captain
“I wanted to become a leader because it would be a really good opportunity to do really great things like representing our school at community events, hosting assemblies and helping to lead initiatives by thinking of ideas to improve our school,” Evie said.
“I like to help others and being a school captain we get to be good role model for the younger kids who look up to us.
“We helped with preschool orientation to help our new students adjust to their new school and help them make friends.
“It’s great being a school captain because we get to help make big decisions. Our school is having a new build at the moment and we’re helping to choose the cool new playground equipment.
“My passions at school are dancing and debating.
“I’ve been to STEM days and a girls enterprising day where we got to plan a sustainable business idea.
“I went to a leadership day where we got to work with students from other schools and collaborate with them on school initiatives. It was great to plan with kids who are leaders from other schools and hear what they are doing at their school.
“Another highlight was we got to lay a wreath at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra a couple of weeks ago.
“This was special because it was a great honour to be chosen to represent Kingscliff Public and our wreath will become part of a permanent exhibit at the Australian War Memorial in the future.”
Kai Friend – school captain
“I wanted to be a school captain at Kingscliff because I really wanted the chance to make an impact and a big difference at Kingscliff Public,” Kai said.
“I knew I could have a say in making changes if I was in a leadership role.
“I get to talk to other students about their opinions and bring these ideas to our School Representative meetings.
“I’ve had the opportunity to give feedback to builders about designs for our new build and that’s exciting.
“I’ve had lots of opportunities such as sporting teams, debating, dance groups and the honour of laying a wreath for Anzac Day.
“I feel honoured to be a school captain at Kingscliff Public.”
Mount St Patrick Primary School Murwillumbah
Juanita Millar – school captain
Juanita Millar strives for the best for the school.
“My goal is to lead with school spirit and be a role model for the peers of my school.”
Juanita was inspired by former school captains to be one herself. They were kind and Juanita looks up to them.
Juanita dreamt of being captain since kindergarten and the former captains helped her pursue her dream.
“I would like to create heaps of fundraisers for all kinds of problems we have in our world today, locally or globally – each problem needs a solution,” Juanita said.
Rafe McAndrew – school captain
Rafe feels honoured to be school captain and enjoys running assemblies with his fellow leaders.
“I have enjoyed representing my school on Anzac Day, school open days and other events in our Parish community,” he said.
“I have attended the GRIP leadership day at Tweed Heads. GRIP stands for generosity, responsibility, integrity and people. I learnt a lot about leadership, got to meet other school leaders in our area and really enjoyed the experience.
“I decided to pursue a leadership role in my school to inspire others to enjoy our school as much as I do. And also to look after the younger students at our school and inspire them to make good choices.
“My goals for this year are to be a good example for others and to listen to the students to see if there are any ways that he can make the school better as a team.”
Wren Webster – vice-captain
“I’m very grateful that the fellow students in my community trust me to help lead our school in positive ways,” Wren said.
“I hope that always trying my best to give heart and pride in my work will give off an impact on the growing students in our school and one day inspire them to want to lead others also.
“I love to help organise big events that bring others together through joy and happiness.
“This year my goal is to make a happy splash on someone’s day, everyday, so then they can also spread love.
“I am quite a confident person who loves to act and dance on a stage, but I understand others may not have that quality. I try my hardest to help them crack through their shell and just be themselves.”
Raj Dunn – vice-captain
Raj relishes his role representing the school at formal events, running school assemblies, helping students and staff when needed and setting a good example to younger students within the school.
“I pursued the role of vice-captain after I was elected to the school SRC last year,” Raj said.
“I enjoyed the role so much as I was able to participate in events within the school and be the representative voice for my class.
Raj’s favourite subjects at school are art, history, and geography.
“My goal is to continue to learn and grow through the leadership opportunities that I have had such as our Incitare Retreat, Anzac Day, school open day tours and our weekly assemblies.”
Murwillumbah East Public School
Jarrah Hynes – year 6 leadership team
“I represent Murwillumbah East Public School and I am a leader for 2023.”
“Being a leader requires me to be responsible and confident. It includes being kind, looking out for others and letting people join in activities.
“I also need to be prepared to complete jobs, host assemblies and offer help.
“I decided to become a leader because I was always shy. Everyone encouraged me and I did it.
“My goal as a leader is to encourage students to attend school every day.
“I enjoy planning fun days, excursions, and school events. At Murwillumbah East Public School we like to come to school to learn and have fun.”
Nimrat Kaur – year 6 leadership team
“As a school leader at Murwillumbah East Public School for 2023, I like to see myself as a role model to younger students.”
“I am always there to help anyone in need.
“I always wanted to be a leader because I want to make school a better place. I want to encourage everyone to do their best and keep trying to reach their goals.
“I am passionate about everyone being busy during breaks, playing happily with their friends.
“During games like cricket, I have set up rosters so that everyone gets a turn to bat, bowl and field. It has helped everyone to co-operate and feel included.”
Caleb Geldens – year 6 leadership team
“My role as a leader at Murwillumbah East Public School in 2023 involves preparing and delivering assemblies, planning fundraisers and school events.
“I decided to pursue this leadership role because I like to listen to others’ ideas and make them come true.
“I am passionate about the school goal of encouraging others to participate in all school activities.”
Emilie Swift – year 6 leadership team
“As one of the Murwillumbah East Public School Leaders for 2023, I really enjoy being a role model, hosting assemblies and being helpful to staff, students and community.”
“I decided to become a leader because it gives me the chance to help and encourage others.
“I enjoy the feeling of supporting people with their actions and goals. One of my peers recently made Nationals in their chosen sport.
“I suggested and helped co-ordinate a fundraiser to support her with travel costs. This involved a dress up in your favourite jersey day and a cake stall.”
Ella Gamble – year 6 leadership team
“My role as a leader at Murwillumbah East Public School in 2023 has allowed me to develop skills in organisation of school events and communication.”
“I am a role model and I am helpful.
“My goal to become a leader was so that I could always make sure that every student voice is heard at MEPS. I always listen to others and take their ideas to meetings.
“My passion as a leader is action. I want to act on students’ ideas.”
Nerissa Cooney – year 6 leadership team
“Being one of the Murwillumbah East School Leaders for 2023 has helped me to improve my skills with public speaking.”
“I enjoy being a peer for younger students, someone to look up to.
“My goal for this year is to be more organised and I believe that being a school councillor will help me to develop these skills.
“I like to help set up and organise assemblies and awards. I enjoy speaking on assemblies.
“My passion as a leader is to gain confidence in all things.
“I enjoy participating in sport, athletics carnivals and socialising with my peers and students at our school.”
Pottsville Beach Public School
Noah Griffiths – year 6 SRC executive
Part of Noah’s role as an SRC executive is running the school assembly and attending meetings on how to improve the school.
“I wanted to help the school more and make it a better place,” he said.
Noah recorded a speech then uploaded the video for his peers to decide who to vote for.
“My goals for this year are to compete in sporting events and to get sports person of the year.”
Sam Flynn – year 6 SRC executive
“My position is an SRC executive and I am involved in all the meetings to make suggestions for the school and to be a role model.”
Sam gave a speech and was voted into the role by the “whole school”.
“I just wanted to be a good leader, a good role model and to run the assemblies,” he said.
Sam wants to run more assemblies throughout the year.
Stella Donald – year 6 SRC executive
As part of the SRC executive team, Stella attends meetings to discuss what's needed at school.
Potential team members had to fill out a form and answer questions before an interview to further explain answers.
The executives made a video to convince the school they would be a good leader.
Stella wants to “make learning fun and exciting”.
“I thought I’d make a huge change in my school,” she said.
With a passion for spelling, Stella’s goals include raising enough money to have a school fete and hosting more school assemblies.
Will Bugden – year 6 SRC (First Nation), sport captain
“I tried to be an SRC executive but I didn’t make it,” sport captain Will said.
“My position is SRC and sport captain and it involves daily special activities and being a leader.”
Will pursued the sports role because he wanted to be a leader at school.
His passions are art, P.E. and maths. He wants to host more assemblies this year.
Roman Matai – year 6 SRC executive (First Nation)
“I’m a school leader and role model for my school,” Roman said.
“I believe I’m a good role model and I love this school.”
Roman said he wants to see more community projects happen and be involved with more assemblies this year.
St Ambrose Catholic Primary School
Sage Matson – year 6 school captain
“My role involves speaking at Friday assemblies and running Monday morning assemblies. I also help out around the school and are sometimes selected for different leadership days.”
“To get this position, I had to write a speech about the things I have done for the school and my passion and interests that would contribute towards this role.
“I was chosen by the teachers and students in St Ambrose.
“I am very grateful and feel honoured to represent the school in this position.
“I wanted to become a role model that all the younger kids could look up to.
“I wanted to represent St Ambrose and make everyone feel welcome because this is how I felt on my first day of school.
“I am passionate about learning, opening my mind up to new experiences and taking part in most sports.
“My goals for this year are to continue learning and improving and finishing St Ambrose with lots of fun memorable memories and making friends for life.”
Chase Deegenaars – year 6 school captain
“My role involves me doing the Monday and Friday assembly. This has given me more confidence.”
“I was elected by doing a speech in front of stage 3. I earnt this position for living out the school values and being respectful to my peers and classmates.
“I decided to pursue this position because I knew I had the courage and responsibility. I had all my classmates’ courage to go up there and do a two minute speech.
“My passions for school are to make a good leader and look after the younger kids that need help.
“My goals for this year are to my best at my education and do my best at sports.”
Arabella Mactaggart – year 6 vice-captain
“It (my role) involves setting up and presenting assembly, representing St Ambrose at in and out of school events, and more,” Arabella said.
“We did a speech and got elected by our peers in year 3 to 6.
“I pursued this position because I felt I could be a good school representative.
“I help out with the younger grades and am quick to comfort. I live out our school values with pride and take any opportunity I can.
“My passions at school are spelling, writing and reading.
“I love seeing the younger kids thrive in their classrooms and my goal is to keep that going and see students improve everyday.”
Lucas Singh – year 6 vice-captain
“It (the role) involves me doing the Monday and Friday assemblies. I have been able to represent my school at the GRIP (generosity, responsibility, integrity, people) leadership conference and the Anzac Day march.
“I was elected by writing a speech and presenting it in front of years 3 to year 6. I was elected because I follow our school values and am kind to all my peers.
“I pursued this position because I knew that I had the responsibility and courage to do it and my classmates were also encouraging me.
“My passions are to make a great vice-captain and look after all of the little kids.
“My goals are always to do my best with my education.”
St James Catholic Primary School Banora Point
The student leadership program at St James Catholic Primary School is based on the teachings of Jesus Christ, the school said.
It aims to help the students develop skills and capabilities so they can all be role models in the community.
“I enjoy leading with others. Everyone gets the opportunity to lead,” year 6 student Blake Halloran said.
The student leadership program involves all children in grade 6.
All have formalised leadership responsibilities in their last year at St James Primary.
“As leaders we get to have a turn at many different areas of leadership. It’s shared leadership,” Ethan Dalton said.
Students rotate through the four key leadership areas comprising of the Seeds of Justice Committee (Catholic identity), Strength and Gentleness Committee (health and wellbeing), Learning for Life Committee (community), and Stewards of Creation (environment).
“I have come from a school that had captains and vice captains,” year 6 student Leena Navin said.
“At St James, there is no one person in charge. Everyone has a role.”
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, South Murwillumbah
Oskar Buckroyd and Arlo Wilkinson – year 6 school captains
These two boys are ”super proud’ to be school captains at St Joseph’s in South Murwillumbah.
Oskar particularly enjoys “stepping up to assist the teachers and being the face of the school in leading by example”.
Arlo said he enjoys “helping others” and “setting a good example for the other students”.
“It feels nice to help others,” he said.
Arlo and Oskar work closely to organise and lead school assemblies, model expected positive behaviours to students and generally make a difference to the school.
Oskar believes leading by example is not just about “being good” it is about having a go, trying your best and being polite and kind to others.
Arlo was driven to become a leader because he has “so much pride in my school”.
“I can’t wait to be able to come back to this school in the future with my own kids and say I was school captain of this great school,” he said.
The boys hope other students enjoy their leadership and follow their positive examples.
Terranora Public School
Kiara Morgan – year 6 school captain
Kiara is a school captain at Terranora Public School. Her role involves, running assemblies, school discos and sports carnivals and setting “a good example at all times”.
“I wanted to set a high standard of excellence for myself and my peers,” she said.
Kiara’s passions at school are art and playing handball.
Her goal for this year is “to make the school a better place before I go off to high school.”
She has contributed to the school by proudly marching on Anzac Day, competing at the state swimming carnival and making sure the little kids have somebody to play with at lunch time.
Kira’s “inspiration as a leader is Anthony Albanese because he makes looking after Australia seem so easy even when it’s not”.
Indy Townsend – year 6 vice-captain
Indy’s position is to “represent the whole school, it’s values, the community and to provide direct support to the school captains”.
She aims to “inspire others and have the confidence and respect of all students and teachers”.
Indy decided to become a school leader to step outside of her comfort zone because she had “never spoken in front of an audience.”
“When I was chosen it was an honour and a moment I’ll never forget,” she said.
Indy loves to make all students feel welcome and safe in the school environment by “treating everyone equally and showing that our school is a fun place to learn”.
Indy is a role model both academically and in the sporting arena.
Her inspiration as a leader is her pop.
“He has been the president of the Tweed Heads Amateur Fishing Club for over 45 years and always has a positive outlook,” Indy said.
Lennox Eke – year 6 school captain
Lennox thought becoming captain would be a “good opportunity to develop leadership skills and get experiences” to benefit his future and make a positive impact on the school.
Goals for the year include winning the school dux award and the North Coast Sportsman award.
Lennox is passionate about art, sport, maths, olympiad and loves to spend time with his mates.
Working with the SRC, Lennox organises and runs school activities to “create a positive and supportive environment for all students”.
He participates in numerous events representing his school and showcasing his school’s talent because it “creates a positive reputation within the community.”
He looks up to Cameron McEvoy as a leader.
“He inspires me to aim high in sporting and academic areas and has a strong work ethic,” he said.
Carter Hamilton – year 6 vice-captain
Carter is one of thecice captains at the school.
“I wanted to become a school leader so I could assist with school tasks, and I like to help other people,” he said.
Carter’s passions at school are enjoying time with his friends and learning mathematics.
He enjoys being a school leader and playing multiple sports to represent his school.
Carter has lead the Acknowledgement of Country at assemblies and showcased his leadership skills in multiple school sporting teams.
His parents and talented Tweed rugby league player Ryan James are his inspiration as leaders: “They inspire me to want to improve.”
Tumbulgum Public School
Abbey Wilkinson – senior representative
Abbey is the senior representative in the school of only 10 students.
“I help with running assemblies and helping out the teachers wherever possible,” she said.
“We are only a very small school and I am the only student in year 6. I was very proud and happy to take on this role.
“I had looked up to the students before me who had been leaders. It seemed fun, especially to be like one of the teachers.
“My passions at school are maths and playing with the whole school together.
“My goal is to improve in reading and to help the school get more kids to come here because it’s such a great small school.”
Tweed Heads South Public School
Oscar Brooks – school leader
“I had to write a speech and be elected,” Oscar said.
“My position is a school leader and I am usually responsible for the assembly and what the kids are doing at school.
Oscar ran for school leader to make his parents proud and he wanted to “be there” as a voice for his peers.
“I wanted to make this school how I believe it should be – fair and safe for everyone,” he said.
“My goals for this year are to help kids find their way around the school and helping them when they find things difficult.
“I am also hoping to get into the academic talent pathway program (ATP class) at Tweed River High.
With ambitions to become a marine biologist, Oscar admits it will be “hard work” but thinks it will be “an amazing career”.
Ayser Malhi – school captain
“I’m one of the two school captains at Tweed Heads South Public School,” Ayser said.
The role includes speaking up on stage during assemblies, doing special jobs, setting up the hall for assembly, helping others and various other tasks.
“I got the school captain position because I simply got more votes than the other (person) when getting elected,” Ayser said.
“I wanted this position because I wanted to try something new. My parents also wanted me to pursue this position, and I also get a good resume.
“I want to have good results at school to make my parents happy and proud.”
Kessler Merchant – school leader
“My position is a school leader. It involves me going to assembly and on stage with other leaders talking,” Kessler said.
“I applied near the end of last year and was voted in as a school leader.
“One of the main reasons I wanted to be a leader was because my sister had been a leader at the school. She encouraged me to do it to.
“Some of my favourite things at school are being with my friends, break time and sport.
“I have achieved one of my goals already this year by making it to State swimming in breaststroke.”
Hamish Peter Fitzgerald – school leader
“The title that I proudly uphold is school leader. It may be the bottom of the leader chart, but I’m proud of it,” Hamish said.
“Every week I get a chance to speak up at the assembly with my fellow school leaders, captains and vice-captains.
“I earned the school leader title by being elected into the role by the entire school. I went on stage and said a speech to over 200 people at school. They liked it so much they made me a school leader.
“I decided to pursue this role because I wanted to speak up at the assembly with my friends.
“Other reasons would be that it will help me get into the academic talent program (ATP) in high school.
“My passions at school are doing my work, drawing, hanging out with my friends, and spotting my teacher (Mrs Hunt) doing weird stuff.
“She once said that she rode a broomstick to school, but I caught her on a bike.
“My goals include getting into the academic talent program (ATP), becoming better at drawing, and a lot of other things.
“Next’s year goals though? I’m unsure. Maybe just stick with my friends and learn how to tie my shoes.”
Ezekiel ‘Zeke’ Shaw – school leader
“This role has me speaking up at the front of the school every Monday for assembly and somehow this helped me cure my stage fright,” Zeke said.
“I earned my role through a vote and I persuaded my sisters to tell everyone to vote for me.
“I could have gone for school captain, but that would require speaking in front of the whole school. This was before my stage fright cure.
“I went for a leader role because I wanted something to do in my spare time. People may describe the microphone set up as confusing and the assembly chair set up as tedious, but I find them fun.
“I also wanted to have pride in walking around with a badge that says ‘student Leader’ and have my parents and grandparents be proud of me.
“My passions are that you are surrounded by kind and caring teachers. There is also an opportunity to make great friends and it’s a ten-minute walk to school.
“My goal for next year is having my friends with me, and maybe teaching Hamish to tie his shoes.”
Ava Knowles – vice-captain
“As a vice-captain, I get to speak in assembly, set up the hall for assemblies and other events, and I get to read with the younger students," Ava said.
“I was elected to the position. I think that because I am responsible, kind and caring – the teachers and other students voted for me.
“One of the reasons I wanted to become a vice-captain was to make my parents and teachers proud of me. I also wanted to do those extra jobs around the school.
“As well as doing the best I can in my schoolwork, one of my goals is to win the athletics events this year.”
Meela Parsons – school captain
“I am a proud school captain at Tweed Heads South Public School for 2023. As school captain, I have the responsibility of speaking every Friday in front of half the school (3-6), greeting visitors to our school and thanking people who have come to our school and presented us with information.
“I applied myself to write a three minute speech about why I wanted to be school captain then presented it to the whole school.
“Ever since I was younger I’ve seen all the school captains take a really important role. I knew I would be amazing at it.
“When my time came, I wanted to make my family proud.
“Seeing my family’s faces when I told them I was elected school captain was amazing.
“I want to keep putting that smiley face not just on my family, but on everyone.”
Uki Public School
Rose Trebilco – year 6 school captain
“I applied to be school captain because it is something I have always wanted to achieve,” Rose said.
She believes captain is a very important role within the school community.
“I remember watching past school captains leading assemblies and hoping that I could do the same one day,” Rose said.
“One of my goals this year is to leave the school knowing that I’ve been the best leader that I can be.”
Abigail Roberts – year 6 school captain
“I have always wanted to be a school captain because they have such an important role representing and leading the school,” Abigail said.
She said being a captain involves lots of public speaking, including running school assemblies.
When the year 6 student first took on the role, she was nervous but found it easier over time.
“I really enjoy working with the leadership team and I hope younger students want to do the same,” Abigail said.
Dominic Chmielewski – year 6 senior leadership team
“I want to be a role model for younger students and lead by example,” Dominic said.
He said that means following the three core values of his school – respect, responsibility, and care.
“Something I really enjoy is sport, and I use sport to be a good leader by displaying good sportsmanship,” Dominic said.
His goal for the year is to come up with great ideas that contribute to the school.
Kane Tulloh – year 6 senior leadership team
“I joined the school leadership team to show that I can be someone who can be there for other student,” Kane said.
“I’d like to think that being a leader isn’t just about being serious, but to also add a bit of humour to school life so that kids enjoy school and are happy.”
This year, Kane wants the leadership team to fundraise to support veterans.
Indy Austen – year 6 senior leadership team
Being captain at the school involves being respectful, caring and responsible.
Indy, a year 6 student, took on the role to help teachers and other students.
“The one thing I really wanted to achieve was being able to overcome the challenge of public speaking, and to help others have a voice,” Indy said.
“When I was younger, I had some good ideas but didn’t know who to talk to.
“Hopefully I have changed that for the younger students at our school.”
Sunny Samuelson – year 6 senior leadership team
Sunny applied to be a school leader to be a voice for her fellow students and to help have their needs and ideas recognised.
A self-proclaimed “deep thinker”, Sunny contributes her ideas and thoughts.
“I can use this quality to diffuse problems and bring issues to light,” she said.
“I love collaborating with the rest of the team and discussing my ideas with Mrs Watkins one-on-one.”
Claudia Watt – year 6 senior leadership team
Claudia was inspired to throw her hat into the leadership ring by previous school leaders and role models at her school.
“I hope to inspire others in the same way,” Claudia said.
“I enjoy working with my peers in the leadership team and hope I can bring more happiness and joy into the school by making people feel like they belong.”
Dasco Bond – year 6 senior leadership team
“As a school leader I want to come up with ideas to make our school a better place,” Dasco said.
Dasco “really enjoyed” attending the group leadership team conference.
“One of my goals as a leader is to fundraise to buy new equipment.”
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Originally published as Tweed Shire’s inspiring 2023 school student leaders share their aspirations
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