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Celebrating culture, achievement and bright futures
2026 First Nations graduates
Toowoomba Catholic Schools proudly celebrated the Class of 2026 First Nations graduates with a special Graduation Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral on Monday, 12 October.
For 52 First Nations students from across Toowoomba Catholic Schools, reaching the end of Year 12 marks much more than the completion of their schooling. It is a time to celebrate achievement, culture, family and community, while looking ahead to the opportunities and possibilities that await.
The graduating students represent St Mary’s College, St Saviour’s College, St Joseph’s College, St Ursula’s College and Downlands College in Toowoomba, Mary MacKillop Catholic College in Highfields, St John’s School in Roma, Assumption College in Warwick and St Joseph’s School in Stanthorpe.
Surrounded by proud parents, grandparents, Elders, teachers and members of their communities, the students were recognised not only for reaching an important milestone, but for the strength, identity and experiences they carry with them into their futures.
The Graduation Mass was presided over by the Most Reverend Bishop Ken Howell, who reflected on the important role of family and community in supporting and encouraging young people.
Dr Pat Coughlan, Executive Director: Catholic Schools, encouraged the graduates to recognise education as a gift that can open doors, create opportunities and enable them to make a difference in the lives of others.
“While they may not fully realise it yet, these young people hold a precious gift, an education that many across the world do not have access to,” Dr Coughlan said.
“It is a gift to be shared, to help others achieve what they have achieved and to make the most of opportunities which come their way.”
“Each of these students carries within them their unlimited God-given potential. This celebration is not just about academic achievement - it is a recognition of their strengths and the great things they are capable of.”
“My advice to these young people is to go forward with confidence, carry their culture with pride, use their many strengths with humility and pursue their purpose with courage.”
During the Mass, each graduate was presented with a specially designed sash and medallion, providing a lasting reminder of this significant milestone and the community that has walked alongside them.
The celebration continued after Mass with an address from Mary MacKillop Catholic College alumnus Archer Turner, a proud Kamilaroi man who is now studying a Bachelor of Education at Australian Catholic University (ACU).
“Life after school will challenge you and help you grow in ways you may not expect. You don’t need to have everything figured out from day one. Growth rarely occurs within our comfort zones. Trust in the process, embrace every opportunity and keep moving forward,” Archer said.
“There are so many opportunities ahead of us. My advice to everyone graduating today is to back yourself, take the opportunities that come your way and don’t be afraid to have a go. We don’t know exactly where life will take us, but that’s what makes this next chapter exciting.”
For the third consecutive year, UniSuper proudly sponsored merit awards recognising students for their dedication to First Nations culture, education and community.
Recipients Kailee Laverty (Mary MacKillop Catholic College), Taylor Lobwein (St Joseph’s College), Jackson Winnett (St Mary’s College), and Kiara Jacson (St Ursula’s College) each received $125 to support their future endeavours.
For graduate Taylor Lobwein, the occasion was an opportunity to reflect on what completing Year 12 represents.
“Graduating Year 12 is not just about finishing school; it’s about honouring our culture and the support of our families and community. This achievement is a step towards a brighter future for all of us.”
As the Class of 2026 prepares to step beyond the school gates, they do so carrying their culture, their stories and the support of the families, Elders, educators and communities who have walked alongside them.
The Graduation Mass was a celebration of how far they have come, but even more importantly, of the possibilities that now lie ahead.
Pictured: Taylor Lobwein, Kailee Laverty, Kiara Jacson, Jackson Winnett - recipients of a merit award.