TOMAREE Public School (TPS) hosted its first Lead The Way Student Leadership Day on Friday 27 February, bringing together young leaders from across the Port Stephens area for a day of inspiration, connection and growth.
Student representatives welcomed peers from Soldiers Point, Bobs Farm, Anna Bay and Shoal Bay public schools for activities centred on teamwork, courage and leading with heart.
The event featured inspiring voices from the local community.
Adventurer Outback Mike shared powerful stories of resilience and determination, reminding students that challenges are opportunities in disguise.
Carly Taylor, business manager from iGym Salamander Bay, encouraged students to back themselves, embrace setbacks and adopt a “not yet” mindset when striving for their goals.
TPS student leaders, including 2025 School Captain Olivia Feldman, spoke about the lasting impact student leadership can have within a school community.
For current Tomaree captain Eva Wilson, leadership is about being trustworthy and supporting younger students.
“I’ve wanted to be school captain for a long time,” she shared, adding that she hopes to inspire pride in the school environment and encourage others to care for their surroundings.
Her biggest lesson from the day was “don’t hold back’.
“Take chances and share your ideas — people might really support them,” she said.
Evie Parkes from Soldiers Point Public School reflected on the importance of kindness and respect.
“A compassionate leader tries to understand everyone’s point of view,” she said, wishing for the superpower of truly understanding how everyone feels.
“I would use it to make fair decisions, build trust and help everyone feel heard and valued.”
Rhylin Green from Anna Bay Public School, a third-generation student, said leadership has been her dream since kindergarten.
Inspired by Carly’s message, she plans to leave her mark on the school by carrying the words, “I haven’t yet, but just watch me”, into her final year.
By Jacie WHITFIELD
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