There were mixed emotions at Dubbo College Senior Campus late last month as 283 Year 12 students, including a record 81 Aboriginal students, donned their academic gowns and accepted their portfolios at the graduation assembly on September 26.

Principal Glen Braithwaite and Macquarie University Vice Chancellor Professor Stephen

Bruce Dowton addressed the graduates, congratulating them on completing their schooling journey.

Principal Braithwaite described the day as one that marks the achievement of years of hard work, dedication and personal growth.

“As you walk across this stage and receive your portfolio today, you are closing a significant chapter of your life and yet, beginning an exciting new one,” he said.

“Within this cohort, we have countless shining examples of students already achieving incredible things and inspiring others along the way.”

The assembly also heard from Year 12 advisers Kate Damen and Rebecca Brown, incoming captains Gabriella Bromham and Jayden Murray, and outgoing captains Charley Elliot and Max McAneney.

Special awards were presented to Rafferty Kater, Ollie Druitt, Aanya Rai, Max McAneny, Jessica Johnson, Grace Benias, Bhoomi Sagar, Jessica Naidu, Hayden Vandermaal, Mannat Shadbolt, Matthew Knight, Azel Olsen, Selwyn Kelly, Kiara McKeown, Akuba Ackerson-Ennor, Koloarah Newman, Stephanie Seton, Bronte Cunningham and Monica Muirhead.

Professor Downton presented leaders and achievers awards to Maxwell Baker, Tazmaine Campbell, Jack Irvin, Delphi Rombout Hewanth Sivakaran, Aanya Rai, Bhoomi Sagar and Monica Muirhead.

Overall outstanding academic excellence medals went to Maxwell Baker, Tully Pittock, Andie McTiernan, Harley Stewart, Matthew Chen, Jasper Wells-Riley, Charley Elliot, Bryce Hemsworth, Myles Baigent, Peace Chiwato, Liam Smith and Abbey Lawson.

The graduating class of 2025 was then treated to an entertaining video performed by college staff, with a unique take on what their future careers will look like.

Students started their HSC exams on Thursday, October 16, and Dubbo Photo News wishes all graduating students the best of luck for the future.