The Gap State High School Class of 2025 Year 12 Graduation

Councillor, The Gap Ward, Councillor Steven Toomey; Executive Principal, Mrs Anne McLauchlan and staff; P&C President, Ms Erin Williams and Committee; The Gap State High School Class of 2025, your parents, carers and loved ones. 

Thank you, Jayden, for that thoughtful Acknowledgment of Country, and to the Chorale for leading our National Anthem. I would also like to begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera peoples, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people here tonight. 

I am delighted to be with you all this evening, at The Gap State High School, to celebrate your Year 12 graduates. 

I know everyone here is incredibly proud of this group of young people who have worked so hard to absorb the pressures and demands of countless deadlines, assignments, presentations, and exams, and who are now ready to take their next steps into adulthood. 

Congratulations to each one of you, for all you have achieved so far.  

I am sure that for many this moment is bittersweet, because leaving your school years behind also means moving on from routines and familiarity—and the comfort and surety these bring.  

I know that this school has nurtured in you a strong sense of fellowship, not just between those in your year groups but across the whole school community, and this connection will not come to an end just because you are no longer wearing the uniform.  

Of course, this evening also heralds an exciting new beginning for you all.  

And your school’s ethos, Learners Who Flourish, is a very powerful way to consider the future. There is no doubt that a deep willingness to ask questions and be curious, serves us all well.  

I also encourage you to keep your minds open to different perspectives, because listening to and respecting others helps shape your own understanding and growth.  

Another important part of finding your way, is reaching out to people. The power of mentorship has always been immensely valuable to me, and I have no doubt, that there is much to be learned by interacting with people whose opinions you value, and who can give you guidance and support.  

Likewise, contributing to the community around you—in thoughtful and meaningful ways—also builds an appreciation of how much we need each other to thrive.  

And, finally, I hope that you will grasp opportunities as they arise, because with your newfound freedom from the school routine you can begin to focus on what really matters the most to you.  

While you will each pursue your own goals—whether this is continuing your studies, entering the workforce, or something else entirely—new friendships and experiences will shape you as adults, but you will always carry your school years with you. 

Your school’s tradition of the Year 12 Guard of Honour demonstrates how much you are admired and cherished by the students, parents, and the wonderful Principal, staff and teachers here, and this evening, we come together to wish you all tremendous fulfilment ahead. 

Thank you.