Marist College Ashgrove Gold Optimus Breakfast

Head of College Mr Michael Newman and College Leadership Team; Regional Director, Marist Schools Australia, Mr Mark Elliott; Award recipients and families; staff and students.

I begin by acknowledging the Turrbal and Jagera peoples, original custodians of the lands on which we gather and pay my respects to elders, past, present and emerging. I would also like to acknowledge any First Nations people here today and commend Marist College Ashgrove for the work it does in providing educational opportunities for Indigenous students.

Well, I can feel the anticipation in the room, as you edge closer to the end of your schooling years! I have been told that the students we are recognising this morning are in fact the highest Year 12 academic achievers – congratulations!

It takes great effort and commitment to achieve at the top, and you are doing just that! You are talented young men, who will undoubtedly continue to humbly achieve, with honesty, kindness and integrity.

I commend you all for your extraordinary hard work so far, I know this has taken immense effort and grit, in the face of numerous challenges – especially having completed much of your senior school years under the various disruptions of COVID-19.

And with mere months to go, I know you will continue to carry the torch high.

I hope that you are proud of your accomplishments, as I am sure they have not come easily. Of course, the recognition you are receiving today is significant to your family and teachers too!

It is your family who has no doubt supported and encouraged you in your studies and will remain your biggest supporters in life beyond the College gates.

Your hardworking teachers must also take pride in you today, for they have provided you with the skills to take the next steps in your educational journey.

Your College motto, “Viriliter Age – Act Courageously”, has served you well through your schooling and will continue to do so for many years to come. For it is these values instilled in you by your parents and teachers that will lead you in your efforts to realise your ambitions.  

My advice to you, students, is to grab hold of the opportunities that present themselves, work hard, and stay true to your goals and passions.

I truly hope, that when you are nearing my age – and as respectful young men, you will know not to ask what age that is! – you can reflect on a life of personal achievement, whatever your passion may be.

I know that each of you has greatness ahead of you, please continue to work hard and stay true to yourself.

Thank you.