Southeast Qld school leaders of 2023 reveal plans for the year
100+ STUDENTS: We asked every school captain across southeast Queensland to shaire their vision for the coming year. Here’s what they told us.
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With their sights set firmly on the future, there is no doubt the state will be in good hands with the next generation.
There has been an impressive response to Quest Community News’ call for school captains and leaders from across southeast Queensland to share their vision for 2023.
This year, leaders from 30 schools, listed in alphabetical order, have highlighted their aspirations and values and told us, in their words what they hoped to achieve for their school this year.
Join us as we celebrate these inspiring students taking the first steps on their leadership journey.
ALL HALLOWS’ SCHOOL
SENUTHI HERATH MUDIYANSELAGE
What made you want to become a school captain?
I wanted to have the chance to voice the opinion of our grade, while also learning skills I can apply to life once I've left school. I was always inspired by past captains to put a foot forward and go for a leadership position during my senior year, and my close friends encouraged me to apply.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to help lead a mindset where we can create a more enthusiastic and spirited school cohort. By advocating for more grade events to help my peers branch out and meet new people, I want to create an atmosphere that is free of judgment and more open-minded.
YANNI TUIMALEALI’IFANO
What made you want to become school captain?
I feel so grateful to the people who helped me learn how to manage my time and balance a busy schedule, got me involved in a bunch of extra-curricular activities that now shape who I am as a person, and allowed me to participate in experiences that I will always remember. Basically, I want to be able to pass that feeling onto other students who come into All Hallows’ and be a part of the welcoming and learning experience that All Hallows’ can provide.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
Two words that my co-captain and I have used to sort of guide us through the year in terms of our goals for the school are enthusiasm and inclusivity. For enthusiasm, we really want to promote other students getting involved in school events, such as carnivals, dress up days, and fundraisers.
AMBROSE TREACY COLLEGE
HARVEY COLE, DAVID CHILDS and BYRON BUTCHER
Ambrose Treacy College is an inclusive community which is centred around a sense of belonging and support for others. As leaders, we aim to facilitate opportunities for younger students to get involved in our community whether that be in the classroom, around the playground or in extra-curricular activities. Our theme for 2023 is Pave The Way, a message about moving forward as one, building on our young history at ATC, and encouraging everyone, staff, parents and students to help us build a culture of spirit. As student leaders we are committed to supporting all students and we believe that by offering opportunities for connection and personal growth, we lay the foundations of a lasting legacy for future ATC students.
ASPLEY STATE HIGH SCHOOL
HOLLY THOMAS
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become school captain as I’ve always enjoyed leadership and wanted to represent our school. I also love a challenge and working as part of a team.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As captain I hope to inspire the younger grades and create a positive, friendly environment throughout the school.
EWAN MCFADZEN
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become school captain to improve my leadership, collaboration and communication skills. Furthermore, I want to contribute to improving the school community while enjoying myself for my last year of school.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As school captain, I want to make Aspley a better place. I want to get to know students throughout different grades to help build a more friendly and inviting school environment. I also want to contribute to the events that are going to occur throughout the year to ensure they can be the best that they can be.
BRAY PARK STATE HIGH SCHOOL
THOMAS COADY
What made you want to become school captain?
Being a school captain comes with a great deal of responsibility, which I was happy to take on, but it also comes with a lot of opportunities and experiences that will enable me to grow as a person and help form amazing memories of grade 12. Creating a positive environment and the opportunity to meet so many new people and learn from new experiences encouraged me to become school captain.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As a captain I hope to form many new relationships between my peers, teachers, parents, and those in my community through networking. I’ve challenged myself a lot in the past and hope that by being school captain I will be pushed to go beyond my boundaries and encourage my peers to do the same.
LORIEAL VILLAR
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to be school captain to not only inspire others around me, but also to develop responsibility, leadership qualities and confidence within myself. Being school captain also gives me the chance to support and encourage, and to help make everyone feel that they are a part of the school community.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to create a safe environment for everyone within the school community and instill a sense of pride, involvement and belonging amongst students and staff. I want to inspire individuals to perform their best and try to accomplish their goals through relationship building, motivation and influencing others around me.
SARAH HANSON
What made you want to become school captain?
I applied for the position of school captain as I am a highly motivated, committed, and compassionate person who is dedicated to my learning journey and the success of the school.
What do I want to achieve as school captain?
As school captain I strive to positively contribute to the school ethos and wider community by displaying exemplary effort and behaviour. I hope to leave a positive leadership legacy for the next generation; proving that commitment, motivation and resilience are the keys to success.
LACHLAN COADY
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become school captain to make a difference and influence others in a positive way, by being a role model to all students. I want to seek new opportunities and broaden my horizons, while gaining leadership experience along the way.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
To seize moments of opportunity and experiences. To make connections with industries outside school and work, for different career options. Also, to make a difference in the school, by influencing others in a positive way, through learning and having fun.
RACHEL BROWNING
What made you want to become school captain?
I have always been very involved in our school and it has always been a dream to be a part of what goes on behind the scenes. The Student Council President when I was in year nine was a major role model for me and I have wanted to do it ever since!
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I‘m hoping to work with the students this year to enhance my communication skills and to help me understand their wants and needs. I hope that I will be able to help set them up for future years through both the Student Council and within the school community.
BRIBIE ISLAND STATE HIGH SCHOOL
THOMAS MADDEN
What made you want to become school captain?
Passion for leadership and the recommendation of my friends and family.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to achieve a cleaner and more respectful working and learning environment for both students and teachers by leading campaigns that benefit school values.
NOAH GREIG
What made you want to become school captain?
I feel that I am a positive role model to other students and have the skills to lead the cohort through 2023.
I am also prepared to publicly represent the school and local community with respect and integrity.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I hope to make a lasting impact on the school and improve my leadership and management skills by working with like-minded people.
MISA HAYWARD
What made you want to become school captain?
I decided to run for school captain because I wanted both my peers and myself to have a fantastic senior year. My desire was to be the voice for my peers in the hopes of ensuring their dreams and a lasting legacy is attained.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I hope to leave behind a legacy of hope, inclusivity and leadership. As School Captain, I aim to implement the ideas and programs my peers provide as a tradition for years to come.
SERA UPIN
What made you want to become school captain?
I applied for school leadership position to increase the safety, security and acceptance of my peers. School should be a welcoming environment for both staff and students and I wish to focus on respect within Bribie Island State High School.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to leave a legacy of respect and acceptance in regards to both staff and students. I hope by the end of the year all students feel welcome and valued in our school community, are engaged with learning and school events and feel safe.
BRIGIDINE COLLEGE
ABBEY ADAMS
What made you want to become school captain?
I had always dreamt of becoming College captain, not for the title or the fact it’d look good on my resume, but because I genuinely loved my school and wanted to have a positive impact on the lives of others. I wanted to be able to put my own and others’ ideas into action, and to strengthen our school community by spreading positivity.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As College captain, I want to promote compassion, respect, and love for others in order to strengthen our College community and spread positivity. I believe that the success of a leader is not defined by the number of new initiatives they have implemented or their extensive list of achievements, but instead by the way they made others feel and how they brought people together.
KELLY EEKHOUT
What made you want to become school captain?
Over the years my school has given me so much, so I wanted to be able to give back. I wanted to be able to make a difference in my school and positively impact others. I have a strong passion for sport and wanted to share this with others to encourage them to give everything a go.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to create a stronger sense of spirit in my school, where everyone feels comfortable trying new things. I want everyone to feel supported and valued as they step out of their comfort zone.
MOLLY GORDON
What made you want to be school captain?
. I was drawn to the idea that I could potentially influence people to get involved and participate in co-curricular activities. As a school leader, I wanted to promote engagement and participation in many different aspects of school life.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As captain, if I created a warm-open environment where students feel like they can be themselves without any judgment from peers, I feel that I will have achieved what I aimed to. I believe that if students feel more comfortable and ‘at home’ at school, they will be more open to engage in many of the activities offered, and therefore have a full-filling school experience.
INDIANA TICHON
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become Mission captain not only for my passion for social justice, but also because throughout my years at school, I found that every student has amazing ideas to bring to the table. As Mission captain, I want to ensure as many of these ideas and voices get to be heard and used.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I’ve always understood the importance of fun and the arts when learning new ideas and gaining new perspectives. Through creativity, I hope to engage more students in social justice issues. As Mission captain, I also hope to involve as many students as possible in planning Brigidine’s many Mission events. So many students, from Year 7 to 12, have so many original ideas that would greatly benefit the school and others.
BRISBANE BOYS’ COLLEGE
JAMES ALEXANDER
What made you want to become school captain?
The past leaders of our College have given so much of their time, their encouragement and support to me over the years and I wanted to pass on some of that amazing legacy to the younger boys coming through.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
It is an enormous honour to lead the outstanding boys of BBC. My hope for 2023 is that each boy feels the bonds of our unique brotherhood, so that whatever their individual goals, successes or struggles are this year, they feel supported, uplifted and part of our amazing College family.
ANGUS SEETO
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become the College Captain because from a young age I have experienced the culture surrounding the College and have been immersed deeply in it. This stemmed mainly from experiencing First XV and First XI games because of my brothers’ involvements. Having experienced this so young, I learnt to love the College and wanted to thrive as much as I could.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to help improve the culture this year and mostly improve the relationships between the boys. I want to be able to show the boys my love for the College and help them find theirs.
FERGUS MILLS
What made you want to become school captain?
My love for the College. Simply, I have been here since year 4 and have had the opportunity to watch my mates grow up with me. I have seen hundreds of new boys come and hundreds of old ones leave. I wanted to become Captain to be able to give my brothers here the best opportunity to have a fun and successful time.
What do you want to achieve as a captain?
I want to continue building a community where all boys have the desire to give everything to everything. I want them to have the need for College spirit. I want to achieve a level of connection between all boys, that will inspire them to make the most of the opportunity they have at this College.
BRISBANE STATE HIGH SCHOOL
JORDANA MCLEAN
What made you want to become school captain?
I see the role of school captain as an invaluable chance to give back to the school that has provided me with so much, and to instil that same sense of pride and integrity in my fellow students. This position will challenge me to grow and develop esteemed life skills while making memories that will last a lifetime.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to cultivate our strong pride in the Blue-Red-Blue and work towards a more connected community of students, teachers, and families. I aim to fill this year with unforgettable experiences while inspiring students to grow as individuals.
HARRIS ZHONG
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become school captain because of the positive impact State High and its community has had and continues to have on my high school experience. I remember that I went from feeling lost in a sea of unfamiliar faces on my first day of high school to feeling like I belonged, thanks to the friendships I formed with classmates and the support I received from my teachers.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
There are two main goals I want to achieve as school captain:
1. To connect students and make them feel that State High is a comfortable, safe and homelike environment, where they can enter as strangers and leave as friends.
2. Encourage all students to recognise and show gratitude for the teachers who have assisted them in any way. Inspired by one of State High‘s 2022 captains, I hope to implement a “Giving Day” for the teachers to acknowledge their extraordinary work.
CANNON HILL ANGLICAN COLLEGE
SAMUEL PAECH
What made you want to become school captain?
When considering a leadership role as captain, I liked the prospect of being able to lead and inspire other students, as well as having a more active role in organising events and fundraisers for organisations which I believe are crucial in the lives of many. Being College captain provides a platform which can be used to promote positive messages, and help others both directly and indirectly.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
This year, as captain, I would love to inspire as many students as possible to do their very best in any endeavour they partake in, whether it be through speeches, presentations or simply being a positive role model other students can look up to.
ARIANE WALLAST
What made you want to become a School Captain?
The biggest thing that inspired me was the enthusiasm previous College Captains had whenever they ran events and fundraisers for the College and how they managed to get the whole school excited and involved with fun initiatives each year.
What do you want to achieve as a Captain?
To be an encouraging and inspiring role model and to lead by example. I wish to encourage involvement in the many unique and interesting aspects of the College just as previous Captains did for me and to excite students for initiatives and fundraisers which also provide a sense of support and compassion for the bigger community.
ZOE BILLINGS
What made you want to become school captain?
Taking on a senior leadership position has been an aspiration of mine even before I came to high school. I have always had a strong desire to help others, and the role of college captain seemed like the perfect way to give back to my school community.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to encourage others to strive for their goals, and not be afraid to fail. Through my role I also hope to inspire other students to have the confidence to be themselves, even in the face of judgment or uncertainty.
BEN MASNJAK
What made you want to become school captain?
I pursued the responsibility of school captaincy as I saw it as an unmissable opportunity to lead by positive example and give back to a community that has offered me so much throughout my school life. For me, the privileged position of school captain gives me the chance to assist the student body in navigating high school and allows me to give voice to some of the challenges they may face along the way.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As College captain, I aim to promote the qualities of servant leadership and raise awareness and funding for local charities and organisations.
CARMEL COLLEGE
EMILY RIESENWEBER
What made you want to become school captain?
The Carmel College motto, “Let your light shine”, has always resonated with me. I want to inspire students in all year levels to discover their own light and enrich our the academic, cultural, religious and sporting life of our College.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
To work with other school leaders at Carmel College to ensure we go from being a good school to a great school that builds on the legacy of past staff, students and members of the wider College community.
FLETCHER WINTERBURN
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to have a positive input into the College and influence all members of the Carmel College community to achieve to the best of their ability.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to enhance our reputation as a caring, inclusive and supportive Catholic secondary school in the Redlands community.
CITIPOINTE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
ASHA VARGHESE
What made you want to become school captain?
I have watched Student Presidents in the past work to encourage every student to be their best in the arts, sports and academics sector. I see this as a unique capacity to serve my fellow students and the Citipointe community at large, and to help them to understand their God-given purpose and achieve them for His glory.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
Our focus for 2023 is Purpose. My team and I firmly believe that God has a purpose that is unique to each of us, and He has equipped us with all that we need to achieve it. Along with the Leadership team, I want to see every student find their talents in the sports, arts or academics sector this year, and then use that to honour and glorify God as a Citipointe community, thereby accomplishing their purpose.
ZACHARIAH SMITH
What made you want to become school captain?
For me, a major reason why I wanted to become student president was to give back to the school community that has invested and nurtured me so much. I saw it as an amazing opportunity for me to use my gifts and talents to make a meaningful impact and contribution to the school. I have a passion to help students achieve their goals and find their purpose throughout school in all aspects.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As student president it is my goal to help students find their God-given purpose. As a leadership team we are enthused to mentor and cooperate with peers to be able to see them push towards their goals. I hope to develop meaningful relationships with students and through my leadership opportunities, encourage them to fulfil their potential and find their purpose in the Lord.
CLAIRVAUX MACKILLOP COLLEGE
ANA VARAYUD
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to be school captain to make a difference. I wanted to make an impact on the daily lives of students – not only with getting to organise some fun events for the school to enjoy, but also just being someone that is there to help other students, and make their voices heard in the community.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
One of the things I really want to achieve as a captain, is a larger sense of unity and community in the school. Creating a place where the students feel supported and feel like they belong. I also want to help students to make the most out of their high school journey, by encouraging participation in extra-curricular activities and school events.
EDWARD MAHONEY
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to serve and give back to the school that has looked after me for almost six years! I’ve been very fortunate throughout my time at the college to be surrounded and supported by some amazing teachers, staff and students.
What made you want to become school captain?
When initially going for the position of school captain I was motivated by what the role could do for me: it would look good on a resume and help develop skills that will be useful later in life. While these things are true, when writing my application I realised, with each line I wrote, that the essence of being a school captain is actually about what you can do for others and how you can contribute to a great community.
CLAYFIELD COLLEGE
KATE JARDINE
What made you want to become school captain?
Being school captain is a legacy in my family as both my mother and sister were school captain of Clayfield College. Through these connections I recognised the joy and inspiration it brought to my family. I too wanted to experience this and give back to the Clayfield community that has aided me in wearing my green and white stripes with pride.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As College Captain in 2023, I want to be a leader that every student can rely on and easily communicate with. Due to the introduction of coeducation, I wish to create a tighter knit community and encourage every student to try their hardest.
ABI CARR
What made you want to become School Captain?
Coming from a rural background, and being a boarder, this school has given me so many opportunities. I wanted to be able to give back to a community that has supported me constantly and lead my peers through senior year.
What do you want to achieve as School Captain?
I want to continue to foster a community of belonging. At Clayfield we are a relatively small school, and with the introduction of co-ed learning it is more important than ever that we connect with each other. Being able to feel like you belong at a place where you spend so much of your time is really important to me.
CORINDA STATE HIGH SCHOOL
SIENNA HEAD
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become school captain because I want to create a strong school culture, and I have a strong desire to make positive change and improve the school community. Ever since Year 7 I have taken up every leadership and volunteering opportunity possible, all to do my part within the school and create an enjoyable high school experience for everyone.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
One of my main goals this year is to create initiatives that work closely with charity and non-for-profit organisations to inflict positive action within our local community, not just our school community.
OLIVIA HOLLIS
What made you want to become a school captain?
The position of school captain has always appealed to me as an opportunity to develop my leadership and communication skills, as well as have a positive impact on those around me. As someone who aspires to be their best, this position allows me to work hard in new contexts to overcome larger-scale problems that I wouldn‘t otherwise be faced with in my studies.
What do you want to achieve as a school captain?
I hope that in 2023, I can improve not only school culture, but also cater to the greater wants and needs of my peers. I plan on initiating change through creating opportunities for engagement from all students; I will create an environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued.
CRAIGSLEA STATE HIGH SCHOOL
NIKIAH INGLIS
What made you want to become School Captain?
I have always recognised that I have leadership qualities and since I was a child, I dreamed of being a School Captain. However, more so, I wish to create a kind and inviting community everywhere I go. If I can make a difference in my community, I am very ready to put my foot forward.
What do you hope to achieve as captain?
I wish to leave a kind and inviting environment behind. I wish to help everyone feel included and loved. I also wish to educate people on issues that affect us every day.
ZANE LAI
What made you want to become School Captain?
I have always loved the idea of leadership and representing our school values. Becoming the voice for the student body has been a desire of mine, so I can promote ideas, especially from those who aren’t so forthcoming.
What do you want to achieve as School Captain?
Within a school community, I believe creating a culture of connection and kindness is so important. Showcasing kindness and our school values towards our fellow peers can make a huge difference to someone. Therefore, I would love to see a culture like this evolve and allow students to feel like they are a part of a strong community.
MORGAN DAVIDSON
What made you want to become a school captain?
I have always loved being a part of the community and now I can be a big part of helping out our school community.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I would love to achieve the feeling at the end of the year where I can look back and see that our school students and staff had fun while indulging in studies.
NICHOLAS WALSH
What made you want to become school captain?
In primary school, I was a School Captain, and having an experience where you are servicing a greater community instils a passion in you – a passion to lead, but more importantly, serve.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
Our School Captain team has decided that our overarching theme will be Kindness Culture. So, in essence, if we can make our community a kinder place, we have done our jobs.
DAKABIN STATE HIGH SCHOOL
KIARA-LEA HURLEY
What made you want to become a school captain?
I saw that Dakabin students had so many ideas but no way to put them through to the school and that some students wanted to form groups for different hobbies and interests and wanted to help become a voice of Dakabin State High not just to the teachers, but to the community so that our opinions can be heard as well.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As captain I want to form a school that is better at communicating with each other through group situations like clubs and bring us closer to the community so that we can find easier pathways when leaving the school, whether analysing which university to go to, or what our first jobs should be depending on our interests.
DREW RICH
What made you want to become a school captain?
I wanted to achieve something to prove to myself that anything is possible when you put your mind to it.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to make a positive change for the school to ensure that everyone finds it enjoyable and will reflect on a positive schooling experience.
EMMA DEACON
What made you want to become a school captain?
I wanted to implement change, not just say I will. I also want to include everyone’s opinion to make this happen and create and do activities that people suggest. So, it can make it more fun for everyone.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I wish to achieve progressive and tremendous things that people will remember. This would require me to input ideas and physically make a change so everyone would be included and make everyone feel heard. Also, to create trust with people and of course to have fun.
KELEA HOPKINS
What made you want to become a school captain?
I wanted to become senior deadly leader for 2023 as I wanted to be a role model for all students but especially for the Indigenous students here at Dakabin. I want to be able to show my fellow Indigenous students that you can achieve your goals if you put the work and effort in.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As a proud Wakka Wakka and Gubbi Gubbi women, I want to make a change within the school community around culture here at Dakabin. I want to encourage and uplift each and every student to be proud of their culture or whatever that culture may be. I want students to not be shame and to speak up and educate other about their culture and what it means to them.
JACK SULLIVAN
What made you want to become a school captain?
I wanted to become a school captain as I wanted to challenge myself through improving my public speaking and speech writing and be able to use these later on in life. I also wanted to express ways to help improve the school and give the students more of a voice in the school.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As a school leader, I wish to create more activities to make school life more interesting for students and help the engage more in their learning. I also want to improve the facilities within our school and create events to fundraise for these improvements.
EMMAUS COLLEGE
JAYLAH MILLARD
What made you want to be school captain?
The community life of Emmaus College is the one thing I have always valued most over my time at the College. Having the chance to be involved in any and every way I possibly could was what stood out to me and made me want to be College captain.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As captain, I hope to help grow the community connection of the College even further. To use my leadership role to serve all throughout the College community from the Preps to the Year 12’s.
DANIEL RYAN
What made you want to be school captain?
I wanted to become school captain because of the people and friends around me. Because they inspire me every day to serve and lead to the best of my ability.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As captain I want to achieve true leadership. Leadership through serving the community not by empty words but by actions.
GENESIS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
BEN MCGRATH
What is the most exciting thing about being a school captain?
The most exciting thing about being the 2023 College Vice Captain at Genesis is that I get to work as part of a very capable leadership team including all prefects and captains.
What one thing do you want to achieve for your school this year?
With this team, I hope to achieve many little things that build up into other younger students remembering what we did and us leaving them with lessons or morals that hopefully they will never forget and implement into their daily lives.
JETHRO CAITENS
What is the most exciting thing about being a school captain?
The most exciting thing as school captain is all of the new connections that you make. You talk to people you wouldn‘t normally get a chance to speak to, and make friends with people you wouldn’t expect.
What one thing do you want to achieve for your school this year?
I want to create the opportunity for students to work between subjects, like the biology and chemistry or agriculture students working together on overlapping content. I‘m not sure of the form that this would take, but it could be optional group projects and competitions with groups being made of a mix of students from either subject.
OLIVIA GITTINS
What is the most exciting thing about being a school captain?
Connecting with people across different grades and throughout the community, and having the opportunity to enhance their school experience.
What one thing do you want to achieve for your school this year?
A vision of unity, with the school working as a team to achieve more school spirit and intergrade connections.
IONA COLLEGE
MATTHEW STRAUSS
What made you want to become school captain?
Since arriving in Year 5, I have loved Iona and what this amazing community stands for, so I was naturally eager to involve myself. When the idea of Year 12 leadership came up, I felt I could make a positive impact to the Iona community and, hopefully, give back to the College as much as I have received.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As College Captain, I want to leave a legacy of Iona spirit to current and future students. If I am able to positively influence the lives of other students, whether through some kind words or selfless action, I will feel as if I have played my part in making Iona an even better community.
KEANU CAREW
What made you want to be school captain?
For me personally, it was when I realised the leadership potential I had, and understanding that I have the power to help students every day. Being able to lead my peers, and recognising I consider myself a leader, pushed me for this position.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
Once that last bell rings for Year 12, I hope I will have made enough of an impact that students will look up to me as the guy who was willing to help others, and willing to do the things no one else wanted to do. I want to make my own impression on Iona College.
SAM CRANNY
What made you want to be school captain?
Early in Year 11, my peers and family made me understand the potential for leadership that I had. Looking around the school, I saw how great Iona is, and I wanted to mark my name down as someone who made a positive contribution to the school‘s culture.
What do you want to achieve as a captain?
Through our leadership, and as a Year 12 cohort, I hope that we can take a positive step to strengthen our community spirit and respect. Since starting at Iona in Year 5, I have involved myself in all aspects of College life, and it is my hope that I can encourage all Ionians to do the same and experience the wonderful opportunities Iona offers.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE
ARIEL FRANZMANN
What made you want to become school captain?
I am driven by the belief that small actions can create a significant impact, and I wanted to use this position to encourage and inspire others to do the same. My goal is to be able to help leave a lasting, positive legacy at my school for future students to follow and build upon.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I am focused on making a positive difference through completing small but meaningful actions, whilst promoting others – especially our Year 12 cohort – to do the same. This includes welcoming students in the morning, visiting the younger year levels during lunches, and leading by example as role models of the college.
LIAM VICKERS
What made you want to become school captain?
I have always had a passion for leadership and community service. I have been a part of the JPC community since Year 7, and have always wanted to have a positive impact on my school and the students around me.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to grow on an already strong base at JPC with a positive and inclusive College environment, where all students are respected and feel encouraged to reach their full potential in their academic, co-curricular and personal pursuits.
KELVIN GROVE STATE COLLEGE
SAMDAVE WITHANAGE
What made you want to become school captain?
During my six years at Kelvin Grove, I have been fortunate to experience and participate in a variety of memorable activities, including live musical performances, sports days, and SRC events. However, I have realised these memories and activities are only made possible because people choose to make a difference, to lead the way in order to make schooling life easier for both students and teachers. That is why I wanted to become school captain, to make a lasting impact for all that come to Kelvin Grove.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As the college captain of Kelvin Grove, I endeavour to make college life easier for everyone, to help both the student‘s and teachers’ voices be heard, and to create an environment that values diversity, creativity, and innovation. But most importantly, to help people make memories.
CASSIDY POLE
What made you want to become school captain?
I’ve spent most of my life in the UAE, a very multicultural place, so I grew up valuing diversity and inclusion and felt I could apply this to my work as captain, providing a unique perspective shaped by my experience overseas.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As captain, I hope I can make positive changes in my school and in my community. I strongly value equality, respect, and kindness and hope to spread these values through the work that the Kelvin Grove leadership team and I do this year.
LORETO COLLEGE
CATE WARD
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become school captain for the opportunity to represent student voice on the issues that are important to us. I saw this role as an important opportunity to not only have my own ideas heard but to amplify the ideas of others, so every student has a voice.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As a captain, I aim to bring greater awareness to social justice issues and ways that Loreto students can work together on the issues which are relevant to them. I also want to help foster a warm and welcoming Loreto community where everyone feels safe, comfortable and valued.
GABRIELLE HAZZARD
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted the opportunity to give Loreto students a voice to ensure their opinions are heard and valued. The role also provides the opportunity to unite students and build a community where everyone plays a role and holds their own unique place. Creating an environment where every student feels free to try something new, in a supportive and safe space and have the courage to be themselves, is a key goal.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
Our main aim is to develop spirit and a positive school culture through a range of student-led events and activities. As a school captain, I want each girl to feel they can reach out if they have suggestions. I hope to support the value of justice to ensure each girl has the strength and courage to act justly within the wider community.
LOURDES HILL COLLEGE
BETTY ANGELI
What made you want to become school captain?
Our previous College Captains left such a positive impact on our College community, and I wanted to continue to lead LHC with compassion, courage and pride as those who have come before me have. I believe that I can have an impact and encourage our students to stay true to themselves and stand up for what they believe is right.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As captain, I hope to instil courage in all members of the Lourdes Hill College community that will allow all individuals to have the confidence to stand up for what they believe in and understand that there is beauty in individuality.
ISABELLE LOGAN
What made you want to become school captain?
Since arriving at Lourdes Hill College in Year 7, I’ve felt such a sense of pride in our College and immense gratitude for all the opportunities that have been available, not just academically, but also serving in the broader community. I realised that this position would be a wonderful opportunity to serve the College community and show my gratitude for the education, support, and other opportunities we have.
What do you want to achieve as school captain?
I am hoping to create a community that is connected, united and willing to support each other, so no one walks alone. We aim to celebrate everything that is LHC!
MACGREGOR STATE HIGH SCHOOL
KALLIOPE PASS
What made you want to become school captain?
Seeing the legacies of past leaders flourish and become embedded in our school’s culture made me appreciate the voice and impact a captain has – which was something I wanted to be involved in – and I hoped to better my public speaking and teamwork abilities alongside likeminded teachers and classmates.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
This year, I want to focus on giving back to both the school and broader Brisbane community through initiatives and student led projects. I also hope to strengthen the relationships between different year levels and teachers alike, to build a stronger school spirit, student identity and create a foundation for future leaders to continue off.
RUBY LEE
What made you want to become school captain?
Throughout high school, I always admired the school captains of every year. They were always upbeat, fun, and great leaders who really encapsulated the school spirit with pride, making everyone around them exude the same energy. I wanted to become school captain to do the same for my peers.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As school captain, I hope to not only lead by example and inspire others through my actions, but also become an honest and positive role model to everyone. I wish to leave a legacy on the school and students as previous captains have done so for me.
ALIMA BILAL
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become school captain because I value community, culture, and student voice. I knew that through this role I could have the chance to actively influence and contribute towards the greater good of these aspects within the school, both today and in years to come.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As captain, I want to be able to build connections within my school community that can last a lifetime. I hope to achieve this by creating a supportive culture through student mentorship and participation encouragement. I believe that by building these positive relationships, both myself and my fellow captains can leave an unforgettable legacy.
MATTHEW STEHBENS
What made you want to become school captain?
During my transition from primary to senior schooling and in my first year or two of senior schooling, I was the kind of student who needed strong positive role models and influences to keep me on the right path and to give me the best chance and reaching the potential I had. Looking back, I realized that it was thanks to those influences such as the school captains that I have achieved so much both within my academic and sporting areas.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As a school caption, I want to achieve and make possible for the younger students what was made possible for me, a positive influence and strong role model for the younger students. Someone who they can hopefully aspire to be like and look up to throughout the year.
PRABHJOT SINGH
What made you want to become school captain?
My sincere enthusiasm, dedication and optimism made me strongly believe that I am be able to create visions and implement strategies which will respond to longer term development of the MacGregor community.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As a school captain, my main goal is to improve the overall student experience and create a positive and inclusive school culture. I want to achieve this by fostering strong positive relationships between students, staff, and the community. Additionally, I aim to improve the academic performance of the school by promoting a culture of excellence and encouraging more student involvement in extra-curricular activities because I believe it is important to include everyone as this is MacGregor where students count.
KIRRA WILSON
What made you want to become school captain?
Since Year 7, I have been inspired by all previous school captains and the idea of leading my high school to be, and as our motto states, “The Best We Can Be”. Being able to step up to the challenge of leading my school with 5 other exceptional individuals and promoting sport at MacGregor has been something I have been dreaming of since 2018.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As a Sporting School Captain, the main thing I hope to achieve and promote is sport at MacGregor. Seeing different students from all grades get involved and enjoy sport, it’s all about stepping out of your comfort zone and I want to be able to show the students at MacGregor S.H.S that it’s OK to do that.
MORETON BAY BOYS’ COLLEGE
LACHLAN HUME
What made you want to become school captain?
Moreton Bay Boys College has nurtured me since year five and one of the main reasons I wanted to become College captain was to ‘pay back’ and spread the lessons I’ve learnt throughout my previous years at the College to help build up other members of our community.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As College captain, I believe that whilst the big things look cool and make the most noise, it’s really the little things that matter. Being someone’s role model or helping a person when they’re struggling are actually really important and fundamental aspects to shaping a person’s character.
JAMES SEYMOUR
What made you want to be a captain?
The principal reason I chose to put my name forward for Cultural Captain last year was to improve. I want to improve Moreton Bay Boys’ College itself, to create a better experience for its students. At the same time I want to challenge myself, to improve my own integrity and my own commitment to my ideals.
What do you want to achieve as a captain?
My goal is to create a more welcoming, balanced and supportive environment for everyone at the College. There are many advantages to attending MBBC; being such an intimate College there is a strong sense of mateship and connection. But there is always opportunity for growth and improvement.
RAMI MFINANGA
What made you want to become school captain?
I love to help people. I want to be the person that people go to when they cannot go to anyone else. I want to be someone that people look up to, whether that be for advice or even just to be someone who will listen.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I would like to show my peers that in most situations, it is up to you to put in the work to get where you want and that once you truly strive for something, almost nothing will be able to stop you. When you believe you deserve something, it is only up to you to achieve it.
VINNEY PORAL
What made you want to be a captain?
I always aspired to be a positive influence within the lives of my peers and younger students and to lead the College which has fostered me for many years. Captaincy to me isn’t just wearing a badge but a form and platform of giving back: giving back in the sense of making a change within my community, representing my College proudly, and being a voice for the student body.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
Ideally, what I would like to achieve as a captain is to further reinforce the Colleges’ pride and culture; building a positive culture within the College community boys are proud to be a part of. I want to encourage boys to always look out for their mates, that “speaking out isn’t weak” but is instead one of the strongest things one can do.
MATTHEW ROBSON
What made you want to become school captain?
I‘ve always admired leaders and wanted to follow in their footsteps since I was little. I’ve admired people like the legendary AFL player Luke Hodge. Hodgey not only guided his side to victories in three of his four premiership games, but he assisted others in developing, and he always played with honour and a sense of club culture to mentor others.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
Becoming the sports captain this year, at Moreton Bay Boys’ College, my goal is to encourage others to participate in activities that will teach them to “become comfortable with being uncomfortable.” This phrase has helped shape who I am today, and I want to share its meaning and the form of growth that it can produce with as many people as possible.
MORETON BAY COLLEGE
CALIESE MCEACHERN
What made you want to become school captain?
Following the New Zealand All black’s rugby teams’ mantra that so effortlessly embodies the unified spirit of Moreton Bay, I wanted to ‘leave the jersey in a better place’. This ideology drove me to become a college captain, so I could engage fully in college life and leave Moreton Bay knowing I contributed to the continual growth of the bay community, and simultaneously encouraged and supported others to follow in my example.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to continue to foster an environment where students are free to express themselves and give everything a go no matter their experience, whether this be in academic, cultural, sporting, or spiritual domains, all of which Moreton Bay provides a myriad of opportunities in.
SOPHIA MCBRIEN
Why did you want to be a captain?
High school is a period of growth. It is a time to make mistakes and learn yet this idea is often outcasted for perfection. So, to put it simply, I wanted to become a captain to inspire people. I wanted to inspire every member of our Bay community to be vulnerable and themselves without fear, unifying us.
What do you hope to achieve?
I hope to embrace our senior legacy, Embrace your Gold Heart, Unleash our Bay Spark, into every aspect of my senior year. This legacy was created by the entire senior cohort and encompasses everything we want to achieve as seniors.
OLIVIA ATKINS
What made you want to become school captain?
Having been at Moreton Bay since Prep in 2011 and entering my 13th and final year, I wished to give back to the community and place that has become my second home. I wished to do my part in ensuring the students who come after me can have the same invaluable experience I have had.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
Through the prioritisation of community at MBC, I have had several opportunities to engage with younger students, including reading Indigenous stories to the children in the Pre-Prep centre. My biggest aspiration as a captain was to continue building this sense of belonging by ensuring the value of relationships between older and younger students is strengthened, in turn building a deeper community.
LYDIA MCCARTHY
What made you want to become school captain?
I aspired to be a school captain to make a positive difference by inspiring a community. Moreton Bay has been a welcoming, lively environment for myself since the beginning of my high school journey, and reaching my Senior Years I knew I wanted to continue and contribute to such a special culture and community.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As captain, I want to inspire others to challenge themselves to grow, seek opportunity and ultimately, fulfil their potential. As College Academic Captain, I aspire to be an inspiration for every student in their academic endeavours, whilst acting as a role model for every aspect of life.
SIENNA HUME
What made you want to become school captain?
Approaching my senior year, I wanted to become a captain as I wanted to give others the same experience I have been given; the incredible range of opportunities to suit every person and the consistently high level of spirit and support that I have always felt at Moreton Bay- whether that be in celebrating my achievements or helping me to overcome my challenges.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I hope to be a relatable role model to whom all students feel they can connect with and share any ideas or concerns. I want to further positively impact our school community by enhancing the current support systems and countless opportunities to forge new connections.
MT MARIA COLLEGE
MARISSA HANNA
What made you want to become school captain?
My desire to become a school captain came from the influence of the great previous school captains we’ve had at Mt Maria College Petrie. Ever since I started high school my biggest role models were the school captains. I was always motivated to act as mature, responsible and respectful as they were.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
My biggest aim as school captain is to show humility and respect to all students at school, so they see the brighter side of becoming a leader.
EMILY LOHMANN
What made you want to become school captain?
My main motivator for becoming school captain was to make a difference to the lives of other Emily’s, people that are not afraid to be themselves, even when faced with adversity. Even if I could simply be a friend to those who have none, I would deem the mission I set for myself successful.
What do you want to achieve as school captain?
If I wish to achieve anything this year as school captain, it would first and foremost be creating a nurturing environment where I could have the privilege of seeing others flourish, and creating a sense of cohesion between my fellow leadership team and school community.
MURRUMBA STATE SECONDARY COLLEGE
BLAIR QUILTER
What made me want to become a school leader?
I wanted to become a leader at Murrumba State Secondary College so that I could provide the students a voice to the staff and community and so that I could work to unite the student body as a whole.
What do I hope to achieve as captain?
As captain of Murrumba State Secondary College I hope to develop an environment in which mental health can be openly talked about and allow for the students to feel safe and heard. By doing this I am to better the wellbeing of all of the students that are in the college currently, but also for the future generations to come through.
HANNAH HOOTON
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become College captain to lift up and encourage students at our College. I want to positively impact the students and be a strong voice for them, and be someone they can lean on.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As Captain I hope to achieve a more safe and supportive school community, while focusing on a more open mental health discussion at our school. I hope to create a positive impact on the students, especially the younger year levels, and leave values of kindness, resilience, and respect on our school community.
NARANGBA VALLEY STATE HIGH SCHOOL
AKSHPREET
School Captain
What made you want to be school captain?
I wanted to be school captain because I wanted to give something to the future students that would improve their learning experience and the environment they are in 5 days a week.
What do you want to achieve as a captain?
The main goal I had in mind was to reduce the number of students being bullied. Possibly completely remove bullying. Also, with the other captains, a decision to connect our cohort was also made.
MONIQUE
School Captain
What made you want to be school captain?
I wanted to become a captain to help be the voice of my peers and help create an environment that people not only flourish in but build stronger bonds with the people around them. I want to provide my peers with a positive last year experience and create lifelong memories along the way.
What do you want to achieve as a captain?
This year I want to achieve creating a strong bonded cohort and an environment that is both supportive and optimistic. I want to be able to make a difference and have an impact on NVSHS.
JACOB
School Vice Captain
What made you want to be school captain?
I wanted to be captain because I want to make a positive impact on the school environment and work in collaboration with other people of the same mindset.
What do you want to achieve as a captain?
This year I want to be able to leave an impact that will still be felt in the years to come.
MERINDA
School Vice Captain
What made you want to be school captain?
I wanted to become a school captain because I wanted the ability to make students’ voice heard. I wanted to be able to shed light on new ideas, and I wanted to contribute to my school because I care. I enjoy the challenge of leadership and I hope this will give me valuable skills and experience to carry further in life.
What do you want to achieve as a captain?
This year as a school captain I’d love to help the school establish a strong presence in the community, with (hopefully) some new opportunities for students, and I’d love to give students the opportunity to voice their opinions.
NORTHPINE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
EMILY CHESTER
What made you want to become school captain?
I applied for captaincy because I want to inspire an instinctive culture of kindness, fun, and genuineness amongst all of us at College and leave a positive change that will last long after we graduate.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
This year, I want to encourage students to realise their individual value. I would love to promote personal character over paper grades, and inspire students (and teachers) to live well and help others live well too.
BILLY WHITE
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to be part of the leadership team so that I could help the current students feel the same sense of belonging.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
This year I want to be a voice not only for my own ideas, but a voice for my peers as well. I want to have made an impact on the College for the better, encouraging students to take part in as many of the opportunities that our great school offers.
OUR LADY’S COLLEGE
CHARLOTTE DOBSON
I hope that through this role I can encourage my community to celebrate what makes us different. I aspire for all OLC girls to feel welcomed and supported to achieve their best. There is unity in our diversity, and I wish to carry and share this message as a College Captain.
MERRY MATTHEWS
We aspire to embrace our differences, honour the diversity within our community and enhance the inclusivity of our community. We will offer support and reach out both in our community and beyond it just as Jesus did to those in need.
PADUA COLLEGE
WILL STARK
What made you want to become school captain?
What made me apply immediately was the opportunity I saw to improve on our already amazing schooling environment at Padua College. As both a grandson, and son, to Old Boys of the college, with several cousins still at this school, my love and passion for Padua is indescribable. My passion is what drives me to improve college life.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As Captain, I don’t aspire to install new bubblers, I don’t aspire to change bell times, however I aspire to connect with all students and help all students connect with each other. Over the past year or two, my attitude at school has shifted greatly and I believe that a shift in attitude has a butterfly effect around the school. Ultimately, a more joyful community is more willing to attend and participate at school, and most importantly, students go home happier at the end of each day.
DOMINIC SMITH
What made you want to be School Captain?
The opportunity to fulfil the role as one of the School Captains for 2023 was a prospect of a lifetime. The passion and appreciation I have for my school is indescribable; this meant I never wanted to implement big changes, but rather establish a strong community with spirit and connections. Padua has shaped my attitudes and values, as well as developing me into the young man I am today; I owe everything to my community.
What do you want to achieve as school captain?
I’ve never had big ideas but in 2023, I simply want to target all the little things. I hope to make connections with all the boys around the school and develop a positive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Throughout the years, I’ve always pushed myself to try new things and be the best version of myself that I can be – this is a legacy that I hope to engrave into the Padua name.
REDEEMER LUTHERAN COLLEGE
DOMINIC DUVAL
What made you want to become School Captain?
One of the biggest influences on my Year 9 self was one of our College Captains in 2020. He helped me become a better version of myself and was a really positive influence on me. I knew I wanted to be a positive role model for at least one other student, to share the positive experience I had, and try and give that feeling to someone else.
What do you want to achieve as Captain?
As Captain, I would love to be a face that people can approach, and connect with people in ways that make them feel valued. Ultimately, I believe that big elaborate projects are insignificant without personal conversations and connections. Engaging all in our tightly-knit community is definitely a major priority this year.
CINDY LEE
What made you want to become School Captain?
I wanted to be a Captain so that I could make a difference by leading and making connections with people on a larger scale. So far, I’ve really enjoyed spending time with the Junior students and participating in multiple co-curricular activities.
What do you want to achieve as Captain?
As a Captain I want to unify our P-12 College, empowering students across year levels from P-12 to foster connections.
TIMOTHY BELL
What made you want to become School Captain?
I wanted to give back to the College community which has served me so well and ensure everyone can flourish in the same fulfilling and rewarding environment I experienced.
What do you want to achieve as Captain?
I am committed to empowering the growth of the community by fostering authenticity and compassion.
JEMMA WERNICK
What made you want to become School Captain?
I was inspired to become a College Captain because I realised it was a chance to make a positive impact on the College community. I’ve been motivated by the service of previous Captains who created a great culture within our College.
What do you want to achieve as Captain?
As a Captain, I want to show all students that doing your best is enough and you don’t need to be ‘the best’ to be accomplished.
REDLANDS COLLEGE
SOPHIE SAUNDERS
What made you want to become school captain?
Having attended Redlands College since prep, I want to continue to share the values that the college represents by being a role model and serving the school community in a leadership role. A key reason for my involvement was due to being inspired and influenced by previous student leaders.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
The last few years have been challenging for young people due to navigating Covid restrictions, and managing the disappointment caused by the cancellation of events. Students at the college haven’t experienced a normal school year since 2019 – when the current Year 12s were in Year 8. My vision is that 2023 is a year where we increase participation in college activities, foster a sense of belonging, build a positive College culture, and thrive as a school community.
NITA DE JAGER
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become school captain to mentor, influence and lead others to become the best version of themselves. When I was a young student, I received heaps of encouragement and support from older leaders that inspired me, and I want to live up to that legacy.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to make certain that everyone can speak and is heard. Everyone should feel a part of the team, take part, and realise their full potential. I want to lead by example, to serve others, and to foster strong bonds among people in my community.
NOAH DAVEY
What made you want to become school captain?
I have known many college captains over the course of my time at Redlands College, each of them willing to give up their time to get to know me and make a positive influence on my life. Therefore, I wanted to become College Captain to be the person previous College captains were to me and to inspire other students around the College to be the best versions of themselves.
What made you want to become school captain?
My vision for what I want to achieve as College Captain in 2023 is to foster a positive college culture where each school day brings excitement and joy for fellow students. A positive culture where everyone is happy to participate in activities and feel like they belong.
JACK PALMER
What made you want to become school captain?
I have spent many years dedicating time to my sport, volleyball. I have had the privilege of being captain of my school team, as well as captain of the Queensland team. Through this journey, I have come to learn the profound difference between being in a team, and playing for and serving the team. Hence I wanted to be captain as a way of partnering with the school, sharing its goals and the goals of students, and help guide people towards said goals.
What made you want to become school captain?
For me, it’s about helping others achieve their goals. To be able to encourage individuals towards them, as well as help further guide students as a whole towards a positive culture, where people feel safe, accepted and motivated to pursue their goals.
SAN SISTO COLLEGE
LANA HOLT AND PETYON HOARE
We are both very excited and grateful for the opportunity to be women of integrity, fulfilling our duties as leaders of San Sisto College. We will refer to our Catholic Dominican pillars and act with gratitude, mindfulness, and diligence. In our year as College Captains, we look forward to inviting students to engage in life at the college, encouraging a love of learning, respectfulness, and inclusiveness. We will continue to build upon the cordial sense of community here at San Sisto and will help our girls to take advantage of our school‘s loving and accommodating atmosphere.
STAINES MEMORIAL COLLEGE
CKAIYM DUNWELL
What made you want to become school captain?
To me, being a school captain isn’t just the title, it’s the responsibility that it comes with. You have the power to change the school‘s legacy but with that, you are held to a higher standard. I was home-schooled most of my life, halfway through grade 10 I joined SMC and my life honestly changed.I wanted to give back to the school for what they did for me, I want to take SMC to the next level.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
For me culture is such a big part of the school, the mentality people have toward not only school but their whole life too. I want to be able to help the students not just in my grade but all the way down to Kindy. I know if I can change one student‘s life, I can change anyone’s.
TALEA MAKIN
What made you want to become school captain?
Becoming school captain has always been a goal of mine ever since I started school at SMC; I saw it as a chance to be able to help others, whether with their learning, their faith or giving the students a chance to make changes within the school. Seeing my dad in a place of leadership and how he leads and makes a difference made me realise how I also wanted to help others and make a difference.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As school captain my main aim is to be able to create an inclusive environment within my school community and to also create a relationship with the community outside the school. To create a difference and to make the school more comfortable and inviting for those who come after I leave.
ST AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE
CHARLES COOPER
What made you want to become school captain?
I really want to leave my mark on history and push myself to see what I can accomplish.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to be an inspiring role model to my grade peers and all younger students that no matter what challenges they may face in life, they can still push forward to achieve the best they can. I want to make St Augustine’s a school that creates and promotes students that push themselves and others to be the very best that they can be.
MISCHA KALIC
What made you want to become school captain?
It’s actually been a goal of mine for a while now. I love to be involved in all areas of school life, and I’d love to help bring P-12 together!
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I would really love to be a positive role-model for the community, and really encourage others to achieve their absolute best (even when things get hard).
ST BENEDICT’S COLLEGE
RONALD VAIPUNA
What made you want to become school captain?
The reason I wanted to become school captain was because I wanted to set an example to the younger students at our College, of what leadership means to me.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As captain, I want to see my peers, younger and future students at my College beginning to act in service to each other and to each teacher. I want to see students be supportive of one another, and always being thankful for our lovely teachers.
CECILLE MIRANDA
What made you want to become school captain?
I was inspired by the responsibility and influence of the position of college leader. I believe that achieving this role is the best opportunity to lead my fellow peers through my actions, my goals, and my values.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As college leader, I want to bring together a college community that thrives in the prosperity of others; a community that is truly united, where everyone wholeheartedly strives to be the best version of themselves. I have the opportunity to lead and build an environment where everyone lives a life they are proud of and has the encouragement and support they deserve to strive for their goals.
ST FRANCIS COLLEGE
JASMINE FARAIMO
What made you want to become school captain?
For me, like many, becoming a School Captain comes with a backstory, filled with dreams, ambitions and goals. I want to make those around me proud, such as my family, teachers and my peers. I want to give back to a community that has given me so much.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
My dream is to be a Captain that demonstrates the important qualities of leadership, teamwork and communication. To help students interact and socialise, so they can build relationships and learn and create new things – put simply to be part of a growing SFC community.
VISAL DA
What made you want to become school captain?
To inspire the younger grades into becoming leaders themselves and to represent the College by leading by example and showing all students and staff respect, kindness, patience and empathy. To be an amazing role model and try to make the school an even better place than it already is.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I would like to improve the school experience for all students by advocating for their needs. Additionally, I would like to help look after the school environment and work on keeping the school running in a sustainable way by following our Franciscan values.
ST JOHN FISHER COLLEGE
PRABHDEEP KAUR and CHARLOTTE POLINSKI
What made you want to become school captain?
School Captains are gifted the privilege of a platform to encourage the greater student community to work towards a common goal. For us as leaders, building those relationships and connecting with those around us motivated us to apply for the position. We wanted to continue to support St John Fisher College’s sense of togetherness for others to live, love and learn.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As the College Captains of 2023, we want to lead with our hearts and hope our connections and service to others will create an everlasting impact on the people around us. At St John Fisher College, we believe that kindness is key and, by modelling this as leaders, we hope to create a relationship of trust and compassion with the student body. All within our school community know that kindness is never wasted; all it takes is one small act to change someone’s life.
ST JOHN’S ANGLICAN COLLEGE
LINCOLN MAUFOE
What made you want to become school captain?
I’ve always wanted to lead because those leaders before me have paved the way and shown exactly how to lead the St John’s way. I’ve also felt like I’m a comfortable leader and that people can always rely on me whenever and wherever.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
My main goal is to allow everyone the opportunity to embrace who they are, where they come from and showcase that as part of the St John’s culture. Culture is a massive part of my life and it’s something that I want younger kids to be inspired by
MIKAYLA BRAITHWAITE
What made you want to become school captain?
When I was in Year 7, I can remember many of the year 12 leaders who made a massive impact on my high school experience, from showing me around, mentoring me in my academics or just being there for a good chat. This is what made me want to become a College Captain.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
My goal for 2023 is to encourage every student to get involved in the College community. By doing this the students will find they have enhanced their school experience.
My goal for 2023 is to encourage every student to get involved in the College community. By doing this the students will find they have enhanced their school experience.
ST JOSEPH’S NUDGEE COLLEGE
JACOB GILLAM
What made you want to become a school captain?
I wanted to become school captain as the role provides many opportunities to connect with different people and give back to the school community. It is also an opportunity to create positive change and make a difference not just within the school community but also beyond the school.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As school captain, I aim to inspire others to strive for excellence - to be the best version of themselves, act with humility and model the way for younger students. I want to help students build meaningful connections with each other and with all members of our community.
ST LAURENCE’S COLLEGE
MACKENZIE DOUGLAS
What made you want to be school captain?
I go back to Year 5. I was a small and very shy young boy, coming from a Primary School of a little more than 200 students. During the beginning of my first year at Lauries I was scared, really scared, as I felt vulnerable to almost everything. However, one young man in Year 12, a great mentor supported me through this time. His name was Dylan Brink. Ever since that year, I have had a passion for emulating what he did for me.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
To make a difference. Make a difference in all facets of College life. Make a difference in the way boys approach learning, make a difference in the culture boys adhere to, make a difference in as many boys‘ lives as possible.
ST PAUL’S SCHOOL
LUCAS NGUYEN
What is the most exciting thing about being school captain?
The most exciting thing is definitely all of the opportunities I get to take part in. There are so many new opportunities such as being able to greet overseas guests, meeting new people that help run the school, and the opportunity to change the school for the better.
What is one thing you want to achieve for your school this year?
The one thing I want to achieve for the school this year is to increase the number of emerging leaders that are fostered in our community, hopefully having all of the new grade 7 students doing extra-curricular activities, and those in grade 9 and above looking to increase their leadership skills.
JASMINE WONG
What is the most exciting thing about being a school captain?
I love having the opportunity to meet and work with the younger year levels and to listen to their perspective on matters regarding their learning at St Paul’s.
What one thing do you want to achieve for your school this year?
I would love to inspire a younger generation of leaders at our school and to bridge the gap between domestic and international students at St Paul’s.
ST PETERS LUTHERAN COLLEGE
CHLOE BAIRD
What made you want to become school captain?
Someone who inspired this dedication was my sister – Julia Baird. She was the College Captain in 2020 and seeing her commit herself to everything she did truly made me think about the kind of student and leader that I wanted to be. I am incredibly honoured to have been offered the opportunity to give back to the St Peters community.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
During my time as College Captain, I hope to promote a culture of spirit, unity and inclusivity. Some of my own happiest memories were formed when I felt like a valued part of something bigger, and it is my goal to help form some of these memories for younger students.
MAX MCLEOD
What made you want to become school captain?
I put my name forward for Senior Leadership so I could be a more visible role model for younger students, and hopefully emulate some of the characteristics I observed and valued in past College Leaders. I have had such a positive experience here and this is one of the ways I can pay it back.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to increase student participation across the wide range of extra-curricular activities available at the College. Every student has their own set of interests and passions. By encouraging each one of them to give high school their all – to explore everything there is on offer and to understand themselves more deeply as a result – I believe that they will be better equipped to navigate their Senior years and step out into the wider world.
I want to increase student participation across the wide range of extra-curricular activities available at the College. Every student has their own set of interests and passions. By encouraging each one of them to give high school their all – to explore everything there is on offer and to understand themselves more deeply as a result – I believe that they will be better equipped to navigate their Senior years and step out into the wider world.
STRETTON STATE COLLEGE
ARZOO ABBAS
What made you want to become school captain?
I really wanted to become a school captain because as a Pakistani Muslim girl, representation is something that is really important to me. As well as I wanted to use this platform to make a positive impact on the lives of students so they can have the best school experience possible.
What do you want to achieve as captain? As a captain, I want to create a school environment in which everyone can appreciate each other’s cultures and differences. I will be working on this by educating our school community about the different cultures through events such as harmony day and multicultural events.
As a captain, I want to create a school environment in which everyone can appreciate each other’s cultures and differences. I will be working on this by educating our school community about the different cultures through events such as harmony day and multicultural events.
BENITA HUANG
What made you want to become a school captain?
I wanted to become school captain because I believe that the students at our school not only need a voice for them to express their opinions or beliefs but need people to have and learn empathy. I want to become someone that people can depend on and trust, someone willing to understand their individual stories.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I want to create a more interconnected school, where there is a smaller gap or distance between the grades across the college so that everyone can have a sense of community and belonging. With this goal of achieving more connectivity, I hope to see the school flourish more, and for me to become an approachable person who is always able to help others in need.
ANN PAUL
What made you want to become a school captain?
I wanted to become a school captain to attain the valuable life skills that come with being a leader. Also, knowing that leadership is a privilege that shouldn’t be taken lightly, I want to make a difference, small or big, it can still go a long way.
What do you want to achieve as a school captain?
My goals as school captain this year is to improve facilities in our school. As well as having more school events, to allow for higher student participation. So, when kids come to school, it isn’t this idea of just learning and studying all the time, but a place to balance out the stresses of exams and assignments with a little bit of fun.
ANGELI GUEVARRA
What made you want to become a school captain?
My passion has always been to serve others — that reflects in my everyday actions, my desired career. Captaincy was one of the best ways I could do that. Even in my short time being a captain, I have been able to help improve the issues that have affected those in my community.
What do you want to achieve as a captain?
One of my biggest goals this year is to ensure that student voice is truly heard. That our opinions and views aren’t just being pushed aside but being actioned and brought to the people who can truly help us whether that be in student council, as a senior, or just as a student who is learning.
ST RITA’S COLLEGE
AVA WRIGHT
What made you want to become school captain?
From the moment I sat in my first school Assembly, I felt inspired by the confidence of the 2018 Captains and their positive influence on the St Rita’s community. I felt proud to be a St Rita’s student and motivated to give my best. In turn, I would now like to inspire my fellow peers to be their best selves and feel they belong.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As College Captain, I want to lead the St Rita’s community by example to uphold an environment of gratitude, kindness and positivity. 2023 is our Year of Simplicity, where the St Rita’s community is invited to “travel lightly”. To me, this means staying grounded by coming back to the basics. I want to focus on good old-fashioned fun, laughing, being considerate and respecting our environment.
TAYA KIRK
What made you want to become school captain?
I have spent every year in high school looking up to and admiring the College Captains before me. I remember all the significant things they have accomplished and how they have made me feel throughout the years. I want to create this feeling for others, making them feel welcome, included and appreciated.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
My main goal is to create an environment that is open and enthusiastic. I want to place an emphasis on the community aspect of our school, grouping together the unique individuals that we are and creating an atmosphere where all students feel welcome to be their true selves. It is in these inclusive environments where people are empowered to show their full potential and are aided in creating happy memories.
RACHEL COPSEY
What made you want to become school captain?
I wanted to become a College Captain to give a voice to those in our community who feel unheard. I believe in the importance of taking action and inspiring others to do the same, because when we start working as a team built on trust, empathy and equality, we can make genuine positive change in the world.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
It is our Year of Simplicity at St Rita’s College, and to me this means letting go of everything that is not authentic to who we are as individuals and as a community, so we can focus on what is important. By decluttering our values, we can feel the freedom to be ourselves unapologetically. This year, I would love to emphasise individuality to create a space where everyone feels they contribute to our school with enthusiasm and mutual respect.
THE SPRINGFIELD ANGLICAN COLLEGE
OLIVIA HARDING
What made you want to become a school captain?
This leadership opportunity allows me to ensure that everyone has the chance to have positive experiences at the College and also allows me to be the voice for the student body. This will be integral in ensuring that students’ ideas and feedback do not go unheard and will assist in improving the College.
What do you want to achieve as captain? I would like to be remembered as a person who is always ready to offer support and is always positive and enthusiastic. I want to make connections with as many of the students here as I can in my final year and hopefully be someone who they look up to and know that they can come to for support. I also would like to be remembered as a leader who is reliable and hardworking, always willing to pitch in at school events.
I would like to be remembered as a person who is always ready to offer support and is always positive and enthusiastic. I want to make connections with as many of the students here as I can in my final year and hopefully be someone who they look up to and know that they can come to for support. I also would like to be remembered as a leader who is reliable and hardworking, always willing to pitch in at school events.
LUKE JAMIESON
What made you want to become a school captain?
Being a College Captain for 2023 is an opportunity I have strived for after the success of my older brother, who was a College Captain in 2021. This opportunity allows me to develop my confidence and teamwork to carry with me after College life.
What do you want to achieve as captain? I want to be remembered as a positive student even during the most difficult times. I want to be seen as a mentor to the younger students and to be seen as somebody that can be easily approached. I hope to find my own legacy to leave behind at the College, as I’m sure many of my peers will strive to do as well.
I want to be remembered as a positive student even during the most difficult times. I want to be seen as a mentor to the younger students and to be seen as somebody that can be easily approached. I hope to find my own legacy to leave behind at the College, as I’m sure many of my peers will strive to do as well.
TRINITY COLLEGE BEENLEIGH
MADELINE LAND AND KY AHPENE
We are Ky and Madeleine and we are honoured to serve as the Trinity College Beenleigh Captains for 2023.
The focus of our College Senior Leadership team is to ignite hope and inspire change, to enhance further the sense of family spirit within our community, in the Marist way. With inclusiveness high on our agenda, we are excited to connect more intentionally with the younger students at the college creating a culture of togetherness, to inspire and encourage, to be a voice for solidarity, to be a family.
WESTSIDE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
EVEN TYNAN
What made you want to be captain?
I wanted to become captain because I am passionate about our school community and wanted to be involved in its development this year.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
This year, I would like to be involved uniting our school. For me this means forming good relationships with students in younger grades as well as promoting a culture of compassion in which students support one another.
ANTHONY SIDDEL
What made you want to become captain?
I wanted to be more involved in the life of this school and it’s students. In my younger years I always looked up to the captains, and they’ve inspired me to take this role. I admired the time that they gave to interacting with younger students and the time they gave to the school.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
I’d like to at least come close to how great the past captains were. Meaning that I would maintain the same level of interaction with younger students and, being at a Christian school, that I would also be an example of someone who has a good relationship with God.
WEST MORETON ANGLICAN COLLEGE
HOLLY GORRICK
What is the most exciting thing about being a school captain?
Having the opportunity to leave a legacy at WestMAC.
What is one thing you want to achieve for your school this year?
I would like to create a more inclusive culture where everyone is comfortable and is excited about coming to school.
RAYMOND HONG
What is the most exciting thing about being a school captain?
To me the most exciting thing about being College Captain is the opportunity to change the school. To leave an impact and legacy that hopefully can help others to connect with this wonderful community at WestMAC.
What is one thing you want to achieve for your school this year?
I hope to be able to create new traditions within the College, through annual events or celebrations that everyone can join in and have fun with. To me, making sure that everyone can have treasured memories of their time at school, is my upmost priority.
WISDOM COLLEGE
ABDUL-KHALIQ LIM-PARFITT
What made you want to become school captain?
Having been involved in student councils for the majority of my school life, including being a Primary School Captain at my previous school, I believe in my ability to be able to develop good relationships with both students and teachers alike.
What do you want to achieve as captain?
As School Captain it is my aim to encourage my fellow students to always strive to achieve their full potential. I strongly promote participation in all school activities, both curricular and extra-curricular, with a particular focus on the service-based ethos of our school.
ISHEETA NARAYAN
What made you want to become school captain?
Being a very approachable person has given me the opportunity to develop social connections with both my teachers and peers. This social connection both inspired and motivated me to become a leader who is relatable to all regardless of age or position in the school.
What do you want to achieve as a Captain?
My aim is to actively engage students on the importance of upholding our school values of respect, integrity, compassion and excellence. I have also set myself a personal goal to challenge myself to improve my communication and public speaking, and being a School Captain will help me on the road to achieving this.
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