Gunnedah High School’s Year 12 Graduation Dinner and Awards Presentation took place at Club Gunnedah on Tuesday, November 19, marking a memorable farewell for the graduating class of 33 students.

Themed “A Night Under the Stars,” the event captured the spirit and creativity of the students in their final school celebration.

Heartfelt speeches by Year Advisors Natasha Constable and Rob Mason highlighted the students’ journey and achievements, leaving the audience moved by their reflections and encouragement.

Ms Constable was the year group’s original advisor, stepping away temporarily while on maternity leave with Mr Mason stepping up to look after the year 12 group.

Ms Constable was known as the “soft one” or as the “school mum” and still remembers meeting the group as fresh faced year seven students in 2018.

“It’s been an honor to watch you grow from the nervous, hopeful students you were when you first walked through these doors into the remarkable young people you are today,” She said.

“Regardless of where you started, every single one of you has arrived at this milestone, stronger, wiser, and ready to take on whatever comes next.

“We’ve seen faces come and go over the years—some of you have been with us from the very beginning, others joined along the way—but each of you has played an essential part in shaping the unique tapestry of this year group.

“I could not be prouder of the young people you have become. Your strength, your perseverance, your passion, and your spirit have carried you through to this pivotal moment. You’ve faced challenges with grit, and you’ve overcome them with grace. Now, as you stand at the threshold of the future, I encourage you to continue to shine. There will always be forces that will try to knock you down, but remember, you are stronger than any challenge that comes your way.

“The world can sometimes feel like it’s happening to you, but remember that you are also happening to the world. Don’t wait for opportunities to find you—go out and create them. Make your mark, because tomorrow is never promised. The only moment we can truly control is today.

“Congratulations, and may your future be as bright and full of possibility as the people you are today.”

Outstanding individual achievements were recognised during the evening. Ysbelle Orozco received the Gunnedah High School Award for Academic Achievement, Paige Grew was named Gunnedah Leather Processors Sports Person of the Year, and Lawson McCormack earned the Gunnedah Shire Council Award for Citizenship.

In a lasting gesture, the class of 2024 presented a farewell gift of $3000 to the school. The funds, raised throughout the year, are to be used to commission a local artist to create a mural or sculpture to support the new yarning circle that is in development.

Adding a sweet touch to the evening, Tarra Mooney of T’s Creative Creations designed a stunning cake that perfectly reflected the celestial theme.

Gunnedah Shire Councillor Linda Newell and Lawwson McCormack.

Upper Namoi Cotton Growers Association Peter Lennox and Jack Lees.

Rotary Club Gunnedah Peter McArthur and Ysbelle Orzoco.

Boggabri Coal Shannon Bull and Lawson McCormack.

Boggabri Coal Shannon Bull and Miah Moseley.

Taleesha Edmunds and Gunnedah AECG president Hayley Walker.

Gunnedah High School captains Lawson McCormack and Paige Grew with vice captains Kane Hollis and Blye Grover.

Cooper Mathers and GHS P&C Association president Alana Hunter.

Gunnedah CWA Coralie Howe and Jack Lees.

Dylan Mackay and GHS P&C Association president Alana Hunter.

Ellie Thomas and Gunnedah AECG president Hayley Walker.

GHS executive principal Darren Monte and Year 12 advisor Tash Constable.

Gunnedah AECG president Hayley Walker and Nicolas Vinarta.

Whitehaven Coal’s Hollie Sampson and Kayden Sutcliffe.

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