What a wonderful evening it was as our College community came together to celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2026. Surrounded by family, friends and staff, our graduates marked the conclusion of an important chapter in their lives and reflected on the many experiences, relationships and achievements that have shaped them during their time at Kolbe Catholic College.
As I prepared my address for the evening, I found myself reflecting on the value of traditions and the memories that stay with us long after the moment has passed. One such tradition from my own childhood revolved around The Australian Women’s Weekly Children’s Birthday Cake Book. For many Australian families, choosing, baking and decorating a birthday cake was far more than a culinary exercise. It was an opportunity to spend time together, create memories and bring joy to others.
That reflection led me to what I believe is one of life’s most important lessons: the value of time.
The true worth of a birthday cake is not found in its ingredients, but in the time invested in making it. Time is our most precious commodity. We cannot buy more of it, and every moment can only be spent once. When we use our time to build relationships, create memories and support others, it becomes something truly meaningful.
I encouraged our graduates to think about the traditions and moments they will carry with them into the future. Whether through family holidays, sporting adventures, movie nights, café visits or simple everyday routines, these shared experiences help shape who we are.
Schools also create traditions and memories. In many ways, a school is the sum of thousands of hours spent together learning, growing and supporting one another. During their years at Kolbe, I hope our graduates have found worthwhile pursuits, meaningful friendships and experiences that have helped them develop into the young adults they are today.
I reflected on the many lessons that are learned both inside and outside the classroom: resilience developed while designing and constructing a project, excellence gained through academic perseverance, dedication demonstrated in performances and activities, and the friendship found in gathering with the same group of people each day. These moments, while sometimes ordinary at the time, become the memories that define a school journey.
The Class of 2026 has also left a significant legacy on our College.
As one of the last cohorts whose schooling was impacted by COVID, they reminded us of the importance of connection and community. They embraced College life with enthusiasm, helped establish traditions that future students will enjoy, contributed to the ongoing development of our TKW program, and became the first Year 12 group to lead major events and ultimately graduate in our Gymnasium.
As our graduates look towards the future, they now step into a world where life is no longer measured by timetables, term calendars and school events. New opportunities, challenges and pathways await each of them.
I shared with them a piece of advice from children’s television educator Fred Rogers: “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”
This message resonates deeply with our Catholic faith. Jesus was a helper who cared for those in need. St Maximilian Kolbe was a helper who dedicated his life to serving others and spreading the Gospel. Throughout their time at Kolbe, I have seen many examples of this same spirit within the Class of 2026.
I have witnessed students supporting one another in the classroom, mentoring younger students, volunteering at events, leading prayer and quietly helping others without seeking recognition. These acts of service often go unnoticed, yet they speak volumes about the character of a cohort.
When I look to the future, I do so with great hope because of the helpers, healers and humble leaders among this graduating class. My hope is that they continue to be people who make a positive difference in the lives of others and that they surround themselves with people who encourage and support them to become all they were created to be.
Most importantly, I wanted each graduate to leave knowing that they are enough and that they are loved.
The end of a journey is rarely the most important part. What matters most is the time, care and relationships built along the way. The Class of 2026 has contributed greatly to our College community, and I thank them for the legacy they leave behind.
I also extend my sincere thanks to our parents, caregivers, families and staff who have walked alongside these young people throughout their journey. Their support, guidance and encouragement have helped make this milestone possible.
I look forward to following the journeys of our graduates and seeing the many gifts they will share with the world in the years ahead.
