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Friday, 31 October 2025
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Year 12 celebrate their graduation
3 min read

Newhaven College's Class of 2025 bid farewell to their school life last week, with plenty of festive activities.

The four-day celebration commenced with a playful twist as students dressed up as "What I want to be when I grow up" as remembered from their childhood, and then on Friday, they 'blinged' their uniforms.

The days that followed were filled with Celebration Day dress-ups and competitive House commando games at the Year 9 Environmental Centre, providing an opportunity for the students to let off some steam before they embarked on the more official formalities.

Valedictory Day commenced with a family breakfast in the amphitheatre, followed by House group meetings.

The formal final assembly commenced with all the Year 12s accompanied by haunting bagpipes played by their fellow student, Mackenzie Cameron. The assembly included awards presentations to high achievers.

A Valedictory dinner was held at Silverwater Resort, where the students had the chance to spend their final moments together, surrounded by their dedicated teachers and proud parents.

Addressing the gathered Class of 2025 at the final all-school assembly, Principal Tony Corr congratulated each student. 

"We are proud of the year level we are sending off today - who you are and what you have achieved," he said.

"You are bright, fun, vibrant, enthusiastic, respectful and committed. In many ways, you embody all that is good about our school. You are what we hope our graduates will be - and there is great pride in that.

"It is symbolic that your parents are here today to accompany you on your last day of school," Mr Corr continued.

"This is a particularly significant day for those parents whose youngest or only child is finishing school."

A remarkable 52 families are leaving the College this year, having had numerous students go through the school. Notably, the Taylor family of six children, is ending their time at the College this year, with Max.

"It has been our honour to share your journey, to walk with you, support you, and encourage you," Mr Corr told the students.

"Thank you for all you have taught us. Your year group is special and has left a lasting legacy. Let your time here at Newhaven serve as a compass to guide you on your next adventure."

During the final assembly, awards were given to students in each Year 12 subject who had achieved the highest grades and made significant contributions to the development of their subjects for the benefit of all students.

Mr Corr presented the prestigious Principal's Prize to Marley Brown, saying he was an "excellent representative of the College values and consistently demonstrated determination and perseverance across his time at Newhaven College".

The prestigious Papworth Prize was awarded to Lara Smyth who was also the recipient of both the ADF Future Innovators Award, numerous Sports Awards and academic awards for four subjects.

"Lara is a diligent, hard-working and enthusiastic member of the Newhaven College community and has consistently demonstrated excellence across her time at Newhaven College in the academic and sporting areas."

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) also recognised Gabriel Di Falco with the Long Tan Leadership Award. Gabriel was a College Captain and instrumental in the Youth Parliament team this year.

Additionally, awards were bestowed upon those who exemplified the school's House values, excelled in sports, and who earned the prestigious Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.

As Newhaven College's Year 12 students embark on their future endeavours, they do so with fond memories, cherished experiences and a bright outlook on the road ahead.

Awards

Principal's Prize 2025: Marley Brown

Papworth Prize 2025: Lara Smyth

ADF Long Tan Leadership Award: Gabriel Di Falco

ADF Future Innovators Award: Lara Smyth

Year 12 Academic Endeavor Award: Jazz Mau and Isaac Savona

CUC Achievement Award: Mackenzie Slidders

Academic Awards:

Two Subject Awards: Sienna Bell and Abby Papas

Three Subject Awards: Cecily de Gooyer

Four Subject Awards: Lara Smyth

Sport Awards:

SEISA Sport Awards: Lucas Allen and Lara Smyth

Major Sport Awards: Olivia Cumming and James Harman

Values Awards:

Bass House: Charlotte Derham & Zoe Scott

Clarke House: Nissa Campbell Walker and Jasper Cashman

McHaffie House: Jasmine Crooks and Joey Thompson

Sambell House: Grace Morris and Matilda Russell