Dedication to study has paid off for several standout students from Western Sydney, with five local scholars achieving first place in their respective subjects at the Higher School Certificate (HSC) level. A special ceremony honoring these achievements took place on December 17, 2023, at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), hosted by the Hon Prue Car MP, the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education.
Josephine Galcsik, from St Philip's Christian College, Cessnock, earned first place in the Primary Industries Examination, marking her as the top student across the state. "I did the subject because I've always loved ag. It gave me more practical applications for the workforce and has set me up for the career path I want to take," she expressed, showcasing her deep passion for agriculture. Now holding a Certificate II in Agriculture, Josephine has deferred her offer to study law and agriculture at the University of New England until 2026. "I plan to take a gap year to gain industry experience and discover my true interests within agriculture," she added.
Merewether High School's Tobi Eeles was celebrated for placing first in Music 1, proclaiming, "I still don't think I really believe it because I don't think I put as much energy compared to other subjects, but I am really happy." She extends her gratitude to Ms. Ferguson, her music teacher, who inspired her to work harder through her passion for the subject.
Nicholas Brown from St Philip's Christian College Waratah took top honors for the Construction Examination. "It’s pretty surreal. Every time I step back from it, I realize how significant this achievement is," Nicholas shared humbly as he looks forward to studying Aerospace Engineering at the University of Newcastle.
Rory Wallace, who traveled 400 kilometers from Cowra to the ceremony, scored first place in the Financial Services Examination as a remote student at OneSchool Global Maitland. He was left astounded by the recognition, stating, "It feels absolutely incredible. It’s rewarding to know hard work does pay off." Rory thanked Andra Janse van Resnburg, his Maitland teacher, who traveled with him to Sydney to celebrate his success.
Rebecca Craig from Lambton High School ranked first for her work in Swedish Continuous. Originally from Sweden, Rebecca came to Australia back in 2016, aiming to re-educate herself about her heritage. "It's so exciting to be awarded," she remarked, reflecting the joy and pride of her accomplishment.
The ceremony celebrated not only individual achievements but also the dedication of teachers behind these students. Minister for Education Prue Car recognized the students’ hard work and commitment. "Let’s all take a moment to recognize these young people who deserve to be celebrated for their abilities, hard work and commitment, which will serve them well as they step onto the next stage of their lives," she said.
Several other Western Sydney schools also rejoiced as students from Bede Polding College, Gilroy Catholic College, Cerdon College, Catherine McAuley Westmead, and St Columba’s Catholic College were honored for their first-in-course achievements. Daniella Maugeri from Cerdon College continued the school's remarkable tradition by topping the state in Italian Continuers for three consecutive years. "I felt so incredibly proud of myself; I didn’t expect to achieve first-in-course but I’m overjoyed my efforts have paid off," Daniella remarked, crediting her passionate teachers for their support.
Grace Costigan, hailing from St Columba’s Catholic College Springwood, excelled in English Extension 2. She stated the importance of supportive faculty, saying, "The main part of school allowing me to achieve this success were my teachers, their ability to find balance and remembering we could make memories through our shared love of English and literature."
Gilroy Catholic College's Genevieve Sing earned first place in Studies of Religion I, impressively completing this as an accelerated Year 11 student. Principal Cheryl Merryweather hailed her exceptional dedication. Similarly, Mikaylah Dimech from Bede Polding College topped Studies of Religion II, encouraging fellow students with her experience. "It was really surprising to receive the news but it was such a great feeling," she expressed, anticipating her upcoming studies law and commerce at UNSW.
Sanmeet Brar from Catherine McAuley Westmead achieved first-in-course for Business Services Examination and credits her teachers’ tireless support as foundational to her success, sharing her shock at the results. Principal Mary Refalo celebrated her achievement, noting her hard work throughout the HSC subjects.
Jack de Groot, Chief Executive Officer of CSPD, expressed his pride over the collective achievements of the Class of 2024. "It is so great to see so many First-in-Course achievements across Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese. These students and their teachers pursue excellence and have been rewarded for their dedication and hard work," he said, reflecting the thriving educational success of these students.
