Celebrating Big Dreams

Rhys* is in Year 11 at Xavier Catholic College in Wurrumiyanga on the Tiwi Islands. He has three sisters and one little brother and says that his role model is his older sister because, “She did the right thing for me, told me to come to school every day.”  There are many different factors that impact school attendance in remote communities like Wurrumiyanga, but with support from the Cathy Freeman Foundation education program, students are feeling empowered and understanding the value of education.

Why did you get chosen to join the Horizons program?

I got selected to go to Sydney because I came to school every day. My favourite subject at school is English. 

What was your favourite part on the Horizons camp in Sydney? 

Boat cruise – I saw the Opera House and lots of different boats.

What did you learn? 

I learnt about how to get a job as a mechanic, which is what I want to do when I finish school.

What’s your goal? 

My goal is to finish Year 12 and graduate.

What’s your advice to other kids that want to come on Horizons?  

Go to school every day, listen to teachers, do the right thing and follow school rules. 

*Name changed to protect privacy

"My goal is to finish year 12 and graduate. After school I want to get a job as a mechanic."

Rhys, Year 11, Xavier Catholic College, Tiwi Islands