On a beautiful Kimberley evening, our college gathered as one community for our 2025 Presentation Night – a celebration of achievement, growth, and the enduring spirit of our College. The evening began with a heartfelt Acknowledgment of Country from Ms Janenell Kennedy and opening prayer from Bishop Tim Norton, reminding us of the deep respect for culture and story that is woven into the identity our college and grounded in our Catholic tradition.
This year’s event was more than an awards ceremony; it was a reflection of who we are as a community. From Pre-Primary to Year 12, students were recognised for excellence in academics, leadership, faith life, cultural engagement, service, and sport. Special commendations honoured those who demonstrated our college values of courage, love, empathy, acceptance and resilience – qualities that define the heart of our College.
Ms Coby spoke passionately about the partnerships that make education possible, acknowledging families, staff, sponsors, and education partners including OLQP Parish, Deadly Sista Girlz, Clontarf, Broome Residential College, Follow the Dream, and Madalah. ‘Education is never a solo journey’, she reminded us. It is built on trust and collaboration – and our presentation night was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate that shared commitment.
Our Presentation night also highlighted the richness of College life through stunning performances by the Choir, musicians, and performing arts students, showcasing creativity and talent across all year levels. These moments of artistry were met with enthusiastic applause, reinforcing the vibrant spirit of our college.
A particularly moving part of the night was the roll call and farewell to our Year 12 graduands – the Class of 2025. Many have been with us since their earliest years, and their legacy of courage, love, empathy, acceptance and resilience will remain a guiding light for future students. In this Jubilee Year of Hope, they leave with hearts full of possibility, ready to embrace new adventures.
The Presentation Night also honoured milestones within our community. One of our long-serving recently retired staff members, Ms Gwen McDermott was celebrated for decades of dedication to Catholic education, recognised for an extraordinary 30 years of service. We also paid tribute to the Christian Brothers, pioneers of our secondary college, as they prepare to leave Broome after decades of faith-filled service. Their legacy of commitment and care continues to inspire us. Ms Coby reminded us that our history and our people are what make St Mary’s College so remarkable.
We were delighted to have the support of our sponsors who presented and sponsored well deserved awards With gratitude, we acknowledge the generous support of our sponsors and the contributions of the presenters for making themselves available on the evening. These awards are a testament to the strength of our community relationships and the shared commitment to celebrating achievements. We thank them for helping us to honour the achievements of our students and for being part of our celebrations. Nulungu Research Institute – The University of Notre Dame Australia, Kimberley Mineral Sands, Pilbara Kimberley University Centres, Broome Office National, Lions Club of Broome, Theatre Kimberley, Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership, Divina D’Anna MLA, The Hon Melissa Price MP, Sisters of St John of God (& Aidan Albert for presenting this special award), Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions, Bishop of Broome and St Mary’s College Parents & Friends.
Our College also shared exciting news of continued growth, including the launch of the Little Saints Playgroup, now offering education from Playgroup through Year 12. The evening concluded with addresses from our College Captains, Jada Puertollano and Fletcher Moase, who spoke with gratitude and hope, embodying the spirit of leadership that has defined their journey and what a special place our college is.
The 2025 Presentation Night was a resounding success. It reaffirmed our commitment to living with listening hearts and striving for excellence in all we do. To every student, staff member, and family: thank you for making St Mary’s College Broome a place where every young person can thrive and celebrating this night of nights with us!
