IT’s been a tough few years for Moree Secondary College’s cohort of Year 12 students, who graduated at a special final assembly at the school’s multi-purpose centre on Friday.

In recent years, MSC students navigated the transition from the Carol Avenue campus and battled their way through the COVID-19 pandemic – all while achieving high academic benchmarks and goals.

Friday’s assembly, including the changeover of school leaders as well as special award ceremonies, was emceed by relieving school principal, Stevie Drenkhahn.

“Today marks the conclusion of 13 years of formal schooling for our Year 12 cohort,” Ms Drenkhahn said.

“Being a leader is not about being the best, but about bringing out the best in those around you.

“A true leader has vision, the capacity to recognise when things are not going to plan, and to be visible in their action.

“Leadership is linked to commitment, determination, teamwork and loyalty.

“These are all big asks of young people as they navigate their final years of schooling, balancing study, employment and school-based apprenticeships,” she said.

Special guests included Moree Secondary College Parents and Citizens Association patron, Rita Rogers, Moree AECG president Janine Brown, School Reference Group member Lorilie Haines, representing Abcare, School Reference Group member Glen Crump, deputy principal Francis Anyango and Lloyd Munro, who delivered a Welcome to Country.

(from left) 2025 school leaders Talara Munro, Carlo Jaluague, Phoenix Sweeney, Isabella Young and Jaxon Budiada, with (at back) new school leaders Joshua Rigby and Stella Hurle (absent: Isabelle Kelly and Benjamin Walker).

Awards were given to students who placed in the top three of chosen courses and achieved an attendance rate greater than 90 per cent.

“We also acknowledged students who received Level of Credit, Distinction or Excellence on the MSC positive level system. Some were awarded at the final assembly, while others received their awards earlier in the school term,” Ms Drenkhahn said.

Outgoing school leaders, Jaxon Budiada, Carlo Jaluague, Talara Munro, Phoenix Sweeney and Isabella Young were awarded the Gordon and Norma Kirkby Memorial Prize.

They welcomed new leaders Stella Hurle, Isabelle Kelly, Joshua Rigby and Benjamin Walker, whose new roles will take them through Term 4 this year, and Year 12 next year.

Jaxon Budiada said the assembly marked final responsibilities for Moree Secondary College school leaders.

“We thank our school, its staff, and students for allowing us to develop our leadership skills over the last year, and for providing us with the opportunities to become proud, resilient leaders – not only our school, but also in the wider community,” Jaxon said.

“We wish the new leaders the absolute best in their leadership journey, and every success throughout their final year of school,” Jaxon said.

Special Year Adviser awards were also given to Lachie Beness, Samual Coulton, Mackenzie Cubis and Georgia Stokes.

Jasper van’t Spyker was awarded the Premier’s Challenge Sporting Medal, which acknowledges a student from NSW Public Schools for their outstanding commitment to fair play, effort and improved performance in a sporting context as well as the student’s contribution to the school’s sport and physical activity programs.

Jasper was also named Moree Secondary College Citizenship Award recipient for his contribution to the Moree Secondary College community.

Jaxon Budiada was honoured with the Ampol All Rounder Award, given to a Year 12 student who has made an exemplary contribution to their school and wider community.

The Paul Philp Memorial Award for demonstrating exemplary spirit and determination, was awarded to Ruby Humphries.

The Sarah Sheil Memorial Award, for encouragement and determination to succeed in academic studies, went to Carlo Jaluague.

Carlo was also named ADF Long Tan Award recipient for his demonstrated leadership and teamwork within Moree Secondary College and the broader community.

The award recognises strong, personal ethical values, such as doing one’s best, respecting others and mateship – aspects considered essential to the ADF and Australian Society.

Carlo also received the University of Newcastle’s Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Academic Excellence, which recognises a student in Year 12 who has displayed dedication and determination to excel in their studies.

The Reubin F Scarf Award, which recognises and honours consistent effort and the desire to improve went to Georgia Stokes.

UNE’s Vice-Chancellor’s High Achievement Prize, which recognises outstanding performance and endeavour in the fields of performance, personal development, social and community contributions and school activities was awarded to Lucy Brown and Jasper van’t Spyker.

Jaxon Budiada, Carlo Jaluague and Jasper van’t Spyker also received the 2025 Principal’s Award, the highest level of achievement in the Moree Secondary College award system.

The Principal’s Award is presented to students who have demonstrated a valuable contribution to the school community through academic achievements, sporting achievements, creative and performing arts achievements and leadership skills.

Moree Secondary College principal, Bethany Kelly, sent her best wishes via video from homeland Scotland, where she attended her brother’s wedding.

“Congratulations to those achieving awards, accolades and certificates, but also many congratulations to all who have made it to this milestone,” Mrs Kelly said.

“Over the years, each of you have contributed to creating an environment where everyone can find their place, be themselves and flourish.

“Whether that be on the sports field, in the classroom, through the arts or simply in the friendships you have forged here, your sense of belonging has shaped your experience,” she said.

“Your leadership through the amalgamation of the two campuses, the resilience, the kindness that you have demonstrated as senior students is nothing short of inspiring. This is what truly defines our community.

“As you move forward, beyond these walls, I encourage you to carry the sense of belonging with you.

“Your ability to build connections, include others, and to create communities will be some of your greatest strengths.

“You are not simply leaving a school. You’re taking with you a network of support and shared history, and I will always be proud to call you graduates of Moree Secondary College,” Mrs Kelly said.

Next month, more than 80,000 students will sit for their Higher School Certificate, the highest level of attainment school students can achieve in New South Wales.

Students will sit written exams from October 16 to November 7, starting with English and finishing with Food Technology.

Mathematics is the most popular subject, after English, which is mandatory, and more than 5500 markers will work across New South Wales in three marking centres as well as from home.

HSC results will be issued online, by email and via SMS from 6am on December 18, 2025.

The NSW Education Standards Authority oversees the HSC to ensure it remains inclusive, flexible and caters for the diverse range of student backgrounds, abilities and goals.