Headmaster Mr Michael Blake addressed the graduating Class of 2025 on the final day of Term 3, emphasising the importance of their collective and individual achievements.
“What matters most is the lessons you’ve learned along the way, the challenges you faced, and the friendships that you’ve built,” said Mr Blake.
“Your legacy is about all those achievements that impacted others, that inspired the younger boys to discover their own potential and strive for their own excellence.” He thanked Head of Year Mr Greg Thompson, Leader of Wellbeing and Formation Mr Barry Hughes and Academic Leader Mrs Donna Quinn for their role in guiding these Joe-Boys on their unique paths. “Boys, you leave here with great heart, you’ve matched your words with actions, and you’ve shown how the small things are what really matters – you have contributed enormously to our culture at Joeys. You shape the dreams of those that follow – never underestimate that impact.”
Mr Blake reminded Year 12 that while looking back shows them where they’ve come from, looking forward challenges them to shape where they will go. “They’re not simply memories to hold on to, but the foundations of what comes next – what matters most is who you are becoming, and the man you continue to grow into beyond these gates,” stated Mr Blake.
In a heartfelt, emotional and humorous reflection, Head of Year Mr Thompson acknowledged the many boys in Year 12 who were the quiet achievers – the boys who went about their daily commitments without fuss; who went quietly to their desks each evening to study; who turned up to training each afternoon; who gave 100 per cent to everything they did; who never sought praise but simply worked hard and contributed. “Your efforts have never gone unnoticed, and each one of you, with your modest and unassuming natures, have been an absolute pleasure to look after.”
His advice to the graduating Class of 2025 was simply “you don’t have to be the best, just be your best”.
Year 12 student Louis B responded on behalf of his cohort, noting that “what makes this group so special isn’t just the things we’ve done, but the way we’ve done it, backing each other, picking each other up when things got tough, and celebrating everything, win, draw or loss.”
That is truly something they should all be proud of. “As we move beyond these stone walls, I will carry that same spirit with me,” stated Louis. “The world outside is bigger and full of opportunities, but I’ve no doubt we will face it with the same courage, humour and loyalty we’ve shown at Joeys.”
