Meet the next generation of leaders
Meet the next generation of leaders making waves across North Queensland. From Townsville to Charters Towers, these young changemakers share what leadership means to them and how their schools have helped them grow.
Townsville
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They’re compassionate, driven and already making their mark — meet the students from across North Queensland who have been elected to lead their schools in 2025.
These young leaders are stepping up with purpose and passion, many destined to become the state’s future leaders with their sights set on changing the world.
NQ Weekend spoke to some of the region’s brightest minds, who shared what leadership means to them, what makes their schools stand out, and how they’ve been shaped by their communities.
These driven children are setting themselves up for exciting futures, many with their sights set on careers as the doctors, lawyers and teachers of tomorrow.
For Townsville Grammar School captain Oscar Caniato, the key to his success has been the encouragement to grow and take risks.
“TGS has encouraged me to challenge myself, step outside my comfort zone and build confidence,” he says.
His co-captain Zarah Moller agrees. “We are provided with an environment to create lifelong friends and memories.”
At Kirwan High, Nylani Namai says the school’s belief in her potential helped her grow.
“I’ve never had to question whether there would be people to support me.”
Meanwhile, St Patrick’s College Townsville captains Meg Burbidge and Saskia Tresch describe their school as “a community where girls support one another, lasting friendships are formed, and laughter is ever-present”.
From Townsville to Charters Towers, these leaders are already proving that the future is in capable hands.
Their goals are bold, their values clear and their stories inspiring — and it’s only just the beginning.
Here our next generation of leaders tell us what makes their school excellent and how they’ve been empowered to take on leadership roles.
TOWNSVILLE GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Oscar Caniato,
School Captain
“The plethora of opportunities I’ve been given, both in the classroom and through co-curricular activities, has shaped my time here in the best way possible and allowed me to form friendships and experiences that I will never forget. TGS has encouraged me to challenge myself, step outside my comfort zone and build confidence. Townsville Grammar School is a place that has allowed me to grow both academically and personally.”
Zarah Moller,
School Captain
“We are provided with an environment to create lifelong friends and memories, experience every facet of co-curricular activities – as well as excel in our studies with fantastic support from friends, peers and teachers. This helps to truly make the school a vibrant, supportive and connected community in which to belong. The Townsville Grammar School community has been an incredibly welcoming and inclusive space for me over my time.”
ST PATRICK’S COLLEGE TOWNSVILLE
Meg Burbidge and Saskia Tresch, College Captains
“What sets St Patrick’s College Townsville apart is its welcoming, safe, and joyful environment. The staff genuinely care about our success, motivating each student to achieve their best while offering kindness and empathy. Beyond the classroom, the school provides a wide range of opportunities for students to explore their passions – whether in sports, the arts, or leadership – helping to build confidence and develop new skills. Rooted in the Mercy Values and supported by health and wellbeing programs that foster belonging, connection, and empowerment, students truly flourish. This strong foundation creates a community where girls support one another, lasting friendships are formed, and laughter is ever-present. At St Patrick’s College Townsville, every individual is acknowledged, valued, and included. With a deep sense of community and a commitment to inspiring students to “dare to imagine”, the college is truly exceptional.”
ST MARGARET MARY’S COLLEGE
Georgia and Ruby,
College Captains
“We believe that St Margaret Mary’s College is exceptional not only because of its state-of-the-art facilities but also because of the community and relationships it fosters. SMMC is a college that promotes sisterhood at its core, nurturing the growth of young women of spirit and purpose. Through embodying the Benedictine value of hospitality and living compassionately, our community ensures that every student entering its gates feels welcomed. Thanks to the support of our driven and committed staff, who go above and beyond daily, students are given every opportunity to flourish academically and otherwise. Our wide range of extracurricular activities – such as various sporting teams, debating, public speaking, social clubs etc – allows students to create bonds and build long-lasting relationships that continue with them into their adult lives, because once a Maggie, always a Maggie.”
RYAN CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Charlie, College Captain
Ryan Catholic College provides a wide range of opportunities for all students. I have attended Ryan since Prep and have immersed myself fully in the college community. My involvement in the College Arts and Sport Programs has allowed me to establish such connections and friendships. My experience with the Arts department and the wide range of programs that are available has impacted me greatly and shaped my future goals within the field of music. Although I am in my final year, I hope to continue my music studies in the future.
Chloe, MacKillop
House Captain
At Ryan Catholic College, we strive for excellence as our school provides endless opportunities for all students. Leadership roles are available for all year levels, providing students with opportunities to develop responsibility, teamwork and communication skills. The sporting programs and teams allow students to further develop their skills, make new friends, and play the sports they love. With so many leadership, academic, sporting, arts and cultural opportunities, Ryan takes great pride in providing students with the best opportunities for success and growth.
IGNATIUS PARK COLLEGE
Cooper Fletcher, College Captain
Ignatius Park is widely recognised for its strong academic focus, sporting success, many arts and cultural programs – as well as providing students with a holistic education in the Edmund
Rice tradition. A massive focus in recent years has been placed on upgrading facilities to allow for the best environment for students to learn and develop into young men. However, what truly makes Iggy Park excellent is the school’s strong sense of community. Within the student body there is a connection deeper than just being peers, it is a brotherhood. A strong bond that makes every student feel supported and welcomed. With amazing staff and a wide network of “old boys”, Ignatius Park is more than just a college, it is a family.
KIRWAN STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Nylani Namai
Kirwan High has always been supportive of my passions and who I am as an individual. I’ve never had to question whether there would be people to support me. This has allowed me to harbour courage and explore many of my interests. Whether in sports or academics, Kirwan High has believed in my abilities. Kirwan High consistently sets a standard – one that enables me to achieve above and beyond, and not many institutions offer that. If you had told me in Year 9 that I’d be the person I am today, I wouldn’t have believed you.
Henry Allery
I believe Kirwan High is a place where the possibilities are infinite. Whether it be on the sporting field, in the arts or excelling in academics, Kirwan has offered me numerous opportunities that have developed my abilities as a sportsperson and as a leader in the community. Throughout my time at Kirwan, I have participated in the National Futsal Championships, inter-school soccer, the Bill Turner Cup, inter-school swimming carnivals and the GRIP Leadership Conference, just to name a few. Every opportunity at Kirwan is fully supported by teachers striving to motivate students to achieve.
ANNANDALE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
Canaan Colwell
One thing that I love about Annandale Christian College is that it’s a community where students feel supported, valued and inspired every day. What makes ACC truly stand out is its deep sense of connection. Whether through the buddy system, extra-curricular activities, or the unwavering support of dedicated teachers, students form meaningful relationships that create a strong sense of belonging.
Raichel William
ACC is more than just a school – it’s a community where students and teachers support one another like family. The close relationships between staff and students create a warm, encouraging environment where everyone is valued and uplifted. Whether in academics, faith, or friendships, this school fosters a sense of belonging that makes every day meaningful. It’s a place where excellence isn’t just about achievement, but about growing together in faith, knowledge and love.
TOWNSVILLE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
Anesu Machando, year 12
I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support I have received from the staff and teachers at Townsville Christian College. Their dedication to my growth, academically and personally, has played a huge role in my journey. They have always been approachable, offering guidance and encouragement whenever I needed it. Whether it was helping me navigate challenging coursework or providing advice on my career path, their commitment to my success has been evident every step of the way. Beyond academics, this school has provided me with many leadership opportunities, together with opportunities for personal and professional growth. Pursuing a Certificate II in Health Support Services and a Certificate III in Pathology Assistance, has allowed me to gain invaluable experience. The hands-on training, particularly the opportunity to work in a hospital setting, has been instrumental in preparing me for my future career aspirations. I truly appreciate the positive impact Townsville Christian College has had in shaping my future.
PIMLICO STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Elann Malot
At Pimlico State High, we believe in making a world of difference and we are
fortunate to have access to world-class facilities that help us pursue our dreams. From our incredible music excellence and global studies programs to our dedicated teachers and amazing campus, we have the support and resources to grow into confident, prepared, and capable global citizens. Every day, our staff go above and beyond to ensure every student’s learning needs are met and that our school feels like a second home. I am proud to represent and be part of such an inclusive and inspiring school community.
TEC-NQ
Matthew Munro,
Year 12 P-Tech
My school is excellent because they not only offer unique and supportive training in all areas of the trade industry, but they help you get a foot forward with getting an apprenticeship. Tec-NQ is excellent in a way no other school can compare, in Year 10 you get the opportunity to try every trade. For example, you may want to be a plumber in Year 10 but after trying the different trades, you can change your final trade decision. Tec-NQ is a safe and inclusive environment where you can also meet new people and easily make new friends. This is why my school is excellent.
ST CLARE’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL
Grace and Max,
School Captains
Our school is an excellent place to learn and grow because of our caring and welcoming staff, who support and guide us every step of the way. Our modern facilities, exciting playgrounds and beautifully maintained grounds create a safe and enjoyable learning environment. We take pride in working together to uphold our CLEAR Expectations of Compassion, Love, Effort, Appreciation, and Respect, which help us build a strong and positive school community. Our statues of St Clare, St Francis and Mary with Baby Jesus remind us of our strong Catholic identity, and we have many opportunities to explore our faith and spirituality. Students can take part in a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including sports, choirs, music, Mini Vinnies, Earth Carers, Library Monitors, Ganmana Adara, and Defence Club. With so many academic and specialist subjects, our school truly gives every student the chance to Be a Clear Light.
ST ANTHONY’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Alexandra and Ayden, College Captains
St Anthony’s Catholic College is more than just a school. It’s a community. A place where staff and students feel supported, valued and inspired to achieve their best. Our College prides itself on a strong sense of unity – a united front which continues to strengthen everyday. With a strong and knowledgeable team of staff, the students of St Anthony’s are set up to thrive in all elements of their learning. From our robust STEM and Science program, to our extensive Humanities and Creative Arts departments, students are invited to explore and immerse themselves head on. Our wide range of available subjects provide students with the opportunity to not only study what they excel in, but to also study what they love. St Anthony’s is a progressive school that works to make a positive impact in the life of every student. Promoting faith, family and future, St Anthony’s is a community we are very, very proud to be a part of.
SOUTHERN CROSS CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Georgia Sullivan
What makes our school exceptional is the strong sense of community. We pride ourselves on providing a supportive environment, where every student is encouraged to excel academically and in all other aspects of an individual’s life. This starts with the dedication of our staff to build close connections with students and other staff members. These bonds are central to creating an environment where all can feel safe, inclusive and be able to reach success.
Andrews Jobby
The plethora of academic and extracurricular music, arts and sporting opportunities students are offered and encouraged to participate in, centred around the Catholic identity and its core values, allows Southern Cross to be an excellent school. The strong culture, exceptional staff and dedicated teachers drive the growth of the college in a welcoming and engaging environment for all students.
NORTHERN BEACHES STATE SCHOOL
Montana Owen, School Captain
My school is truly a special place, largely thanks to the amazing teachers and staff who make it such a supportive and inspiring environment. Each teacher is dedicated to helping students reach their full potential, offering guidance both inside and outside the classroom. Beyond the classrooms, the extra-curricular programs including IXL Academic, Sport, Art and STEM makes every student feel like they have a place. The block sport, Theatre Restaurant and the newly established clubs for this year, once again supported by our teachers, demonstrates the number of opportunities for students to feel part of the team. Mr Frankling and the staff are really making a recognisable difference here at Northern Beaches.
THE CATHEDRAL SCHOOL
Celicia Niemandt and Luke Bartolo, Year 12
When we think of Cathedral, we think of one word: community. When we joined the school, we were welcomed with open arms and mountains of support. Throughout these past few years, our hearts have continuously been filled with pride and affection for our school. The rich history and traditions, plus a sense of belonging, makes establishing your place in our community effortless, due to our school spirit which is unmatched. Cathedral’s excellency and uniqueness is prevalent to all who enter our campus.
WILLIAM ROSS STATE HIGH SCHOOL
Laani Bradley,
School Captain
I believe William Ross is an excellent school because of the passionate staff and the opportunities provided to students. Every staff member is determined to see our students do well and they dedicate time, resources and energy to see this success. Additionally, the opportunities offered to us as students makes our community a positive and enjoyable place to be. Our teachers and staff volunteer their own time to give us access to extra-curricular activities and are committed to seeing us thrive, both inside and outside the classroom.
BLACKHEATH & THORNBURGH COLLEGE
Sascha Young,
College Captain
To me Blackheath & Thornburgh College is a phenomenal school. It has so much to offer kids from all over the country and further abroad. We are a very diverse school and are a very proud school community. Being able to interact with so many different people and learn about so many different cultures is really incredible. You make so many awesome friends that will last a lifetime – not to mention how many different extra-curricular activities you are able to participate in at the school.
Jayden Pacey,
College Captain
There are so many reasons why Blackheath & Thornburgh College is a great school, but I think they can all be linked back to the school’s friendly community. Although we are growing in numbers every year, the school maintains its friendly vibe and characteristics that help shape us into the best versions of ourselves. The staff here are always supportive, whether it be an interschool event or learning in the classroom. The same can be said for my peers, who are always full of school spirit. You can definitely say that I am surrounded by great people.
COLUMBA CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Layla, College Captain
Columba Catholic College is an amazing school because it offers diverse learning opportunities from Prep to Year 12, ensuring guided learning experiences. With a supportive community and dedicated staff, students are inspired to express the colleges values of Courage, Commitment and Compassion.
Callum, College Captain
Columba Catholic College is an amazing school because of the opportunities it offers
all students. Whether it’s academics, sports, community activities, or religious realms, it has something for everyone. The staff are dedicated and always willing to help.
ST JOSEPH’S MUNDINGBURRA
Student Council Representatives
The teachers are very nice, they have a fun energy – which makes learning fun. They work hard to keep the students motivated to achieve. They care about us and are supportive. Our school is somewhere we feel safe. We are lucky to have lots of wonderful facilities like our playgrounds, library and a tuckshop that sells healthy food and treats. The students are always friendly and we have the Joey’s Way, which all of them follow. This means we are respectful, responsible, proud, we serve others and we are safe at school. We have a lot of extra things the students can get involved in. These include Bimbi Wadja group, Earth Warriors, Eco Marines and Tech Club. Our school is welcoming and inclusive, providing us with a sense of belonging. We have lots of great gardens, including Joseph’s garden – where the students get to grow vegetables for our school.
ST JOSEPH’S THE STRAND
Grace
I think what makes my school so great is the community and the teachers here. Everyone is so kind and it really feels like a family.
Harrison
I really like St Joseph’s because all the staff are so welcoming and everyone sticks together as a community – no one leaves you out and everyone works together to achieve the same goal.
HOLY SPIRIT CATHOLIC SCHOOL
Arya, School Captain
Our school is the best because we have a student voice and we love being part of the Spirit community. I love how we feel welcome, how the staff care for us and go above and beyond their role.
Kai, School Captain
It’s the best because we have the best staff and have lots of opportunities to learn as well as fantastic facilities like our library. We are going to miss Holy Spirit when we leave for high school.
MARIAN CATHOLIC SCHOOL
Eva, Year 6 School Captain
Marian is an excellent school because all of the staff and students are really respectful and everyone is welcome. We have a lot of opportunities to support our education and emotional development and our school grounds are well organised and tidy. It’s a place everyone wants to be.
Tate, Year 6 School Captain
Marian is an excellent school because there are lots of adults who are easy to talk to if you need help, which makes everyone feel very safe. Students also have a lot of different opportunities for their learning, sport and interests.
ST BENEDICT’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Mia F, Year 6
We get to do different eProjects in every grade and our facilities are set up really well to help us with these.
Harper H, Year 5
Everyone here is super nice. The staff are amazing and always helpful when we need support.
Cienna L, Year 4
I think all of the specialist subjects we get to do, like Sport (PE), Drama, Technology and
Spanish, are excellent. It’s great getting to learn about so many different things.
Originally published as Meet the next generation of leaders
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