A celebration dinner was held on Tuesday 23 September for the Indigenous boys graduating in the class of 2025. The evening was a casual event to recognise the boys achievements, reflect on their time at the school and thank all of those who have supported their journey. Attended by the 34 Indigenous students currently enrolled at the college, along with Headmaster Mark Tannock, Indigenous Program Manager Kaleb Taylor, support teachers and mentors, the graduates shared stories of funny moments, challenges and achievements they experienced during their time at the school. 

Congratulations to the class of 2025: 

Tristan D - Yamba (Yaegl) 

Willy K- Torres Strait - (Moa Island) 

Will B - La Perouse (Dharawal country) 

Will O - West Pymble (Badu Island Torres Strait) 

Heath - Ballarat (Wathautong) 

Traevion F - Dubbo (Wiradjuri) 

Mathew K - Tamworth (Gomeroi) 

A consistent theme amongst the graduating students was their appreciation for the opportunity to have been at the school and the support they had received from those around them. In particular, the boys spoke with some emotion about the pastoral care and support provided by Kaleb and Kyle, helping the boys to overcome home sickness, social challenges and the lack of belief they sometimes had in themselves to continue on and reach this important milestone. The boys also expressed their appreciation for the mentors who gave their time and were present at important stages in their journey. 

Having been involved in the program for four years now, it was a privilege to see this group of young men who arrived back to the college in 2021 after the disruption of COVID and who were now standing in front of their peers and community celebrating them reaching year 12. Knowing the challenges some of them faced along the way, reinforced the huge amount of respect that I have for each of them. 

We are still looking for mentors to support 15 Indigenous boys. Please contact me on president@oiu.org.au if you are interested in being involved in the program.