As another remarkable school year draws to a close, the College Awards Night 2024 lit up the auditorium with an unforgettable celebration of student achievements. With the theme “Keep the Fire Burning”, the evening symbolised the relentless pursuit of excellence and the journey of growth and learning from Years 7 through 12.
The metaphor of the fire resonated deeply, reminding students, staff, and families alike that our dreams, like flames, need nurturing, fuel, and care to shine brightly. Each step forward is an ember, and together, they form the fire that lights the way to success.
Mr Barry Winmar along with the college choir, dancers and the scholarship band opened the ceremony with an inspiring Welcome to country followed by a Spirit Dance and the opening liturgy.
The night was filled with moments of pride and joy as students across all grades were recognised for their achievements in academics, sports, arts, and leadership. The Year 12 special awards were a highlight of the College Awards Night, celebrating the outstanding achievements of our graduating students. These awards, the pinnacle of recognition, acknowledged excellence in academics, leadership, community service, and personal growth.
- Dux of the 12: Euan Vincent
- Proxime Accessit: Dawon Oh
- Performing Arts Award: Emily Gray
- Kolbe Sportsperson Award: Euan Vincent
- Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award: Dylan Russell
- Br Sergius Service and Leadership Award: Blake Wiltschut
- Excellence in VET Industry Pathways: Dylan Russell
- Excellence in University Preparation Pathways: Jade Olsen
- Excellence in General Pathways: Jorja Essex
- Br Pat Carey Principal’s Award: Georgia Coleman
- St Maximilian Kolbe Award: Shae Donaldson
Special recognition was also given to Rice House who won the Ali Buckner Champion House Award and to the Senior Boys Netball Team – ACC Championship winners who were awarded Team of the Year. Beyond individual accolades, the evening emphasised the collective spirit that makes the college a thriving community. Performances by the college choir, dancers and musicians added a touch of magic that captivated the audience.
The Year 12 Executive Leadership Team reflected on their journey, guided by the theme “Show Kindness, Have Courage, Make Change.” They emphasised leadership as a responsibility to nurture and inspire others, drawing on the selfless example of St. Maximilian Kolbe. They shared how their focus on kindness created a more inclusive community, celebrated acts of courage in everyday challenges, and encouraged positive change through small but meaningful actions.
Concluding their leadership journey, they passed the torch to the 2025 Student Executive team, urging them to embody these values and keep the spirit of Kolbe alive.
Principal Mr. Neil Alweyn inspired the audience with a speech emphasising resilience, growth, and self-belief as the cornerstones of true success. Drawing on the metaphor of the bumblebee, which defies logic to achieve flight, he encouraged students to rise above limitations and embrace their potential. Quoting Winston Churchill, he highlighted the importance of seeing failure as a step toward growth: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”
Mr. Alweyn also stressed the value of relationships and compassion, urging students to lead lives inspired by the humility and service exemplified by St. Maximilian Kolbe.
“Take pride in your accomplishments, but remember they are only part of who you are,” he concluded, leaving the audience with a powerful reminder to pursue excellence with purpose and kindness.
While we eagerly anticipate next year’s festivities, let’s take this moment to rest, recharge, and prepare to keep the fire burning bright in all that we do. Congratulations to all the incredible award winners, and here’s to a future filled with even greater achievements!
