On a day filled with joy, reflection, and heartfelt farewells, our College proudly honoured the Class of 2025, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another for our graduating students.
The celebrations began with a special breakfast for Year 12 students and staff, where laughter and gratitude set the tone for the day. Students presented awards to teachers, acknowledging the strong relationships that make St Mary’s a place of connection and care. At our Final Assembly, our Year 6–12 students farewelled the graduates with moving addresses from the College Captains, reminding all of the importance of a “listening heart” and living out our College values – courage, love, empathy, acceptance, and resilience. Teachers then presented awards to the graduates, celebrating their achievements and character.
In the afternoon, our community gathered for a Graduation Mass led by Father Liam and Fr Patricio. The Eucharistic celebration reminded us that Jesus calls us as a community and sends us out into the world with faith, hope, and love – the heart of a Catholic education.
The evening Graduation Dinner began with a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country by Stephen Sibosado, honouring the privilege of living and learning on Yawuru Country. Principal Ms Coby Rhatigan welcomed families, staff, and distinguished guests, including representatives of our Founding Orders. This year marked a historic moment as we farewelled the Christian Brothers, Br Berkely and Br Peter, after 54 years of service to the Kimberley.
Our keynote speaker Paul Lane was warmly welcomed and quietened the room, with him sharing his commitment to social justice and leadership and being able to inspire graduands to embrace their future with courage and purpose. Paul Lane, whose address “Embracing Change, Diversity, and the Worth of Every Person” challenged graduates to step boldly into the future. Paul reminded students that change is the one constant in life – sometimes exciting, sometimes uncomfortable, but always an opportunity for growth. He encouraged graduands “Don’t be afraid of change. Lean into it. Let it shape you. Every challenge is a chance to grow a little stronger, a little wiser, a little kinder.” He spoke of the richness of diversity and the importance of listening and understanding: “Real leadership is the ability to sit across from someone whose life looks nothing like yours – and still see their humanity, their value, their potential.” Paul urged graduates to develop the greatest skill of all:
“Recognise the worth of every person you meet. Every person has a story, something to teach you, and potential that may not be visible at first glance. When you learn to see that, your life will be enriched beyond measure.” His final challenge to the Class of 2025 was clear: “Go forward with courage. Embrace change with imagination. Build bridges wherever you go. And remember – the measure of your life will not be in titles or possessions, but in how you treat others and help them see their own worth.” Such wise and meaningful words from our 2025 keynote speaker.
The night was a celebration of milestones, memories, and the magnificent journey of our Class of 2025. We have seen them grow, struggle, triumph, and transform. We celebrated not just the student achievement, but their character, their courage, and their listening hearts. Ms Coby reminded students to “Be courageous. Be loving. Be empathetic. Be accepting. Be resilient. These aren’t just words they’re the compass that will guide you through life’s twists and turns. Trust your listening heart. It will never steer you wrong.”
As graduates step into university, work, travel, or new opportunities, they do so knowing they are never alone – their families, College, and faith will always walk beside them. We are extremely grateful to Mr Glen, Head of Year and Ms Antonietta Scriva, Deputy Principal Pastoral Care and their teams for ensuring such an incredible celebration for our class of 2025.
Congratulations, Class of 2025! May your future be filled with joy, success, courage, and a listening heart. Wherever life takes you, remember – you are forever part of the St Mary’s College family
