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Principal David Smith opened the assembly by acknowledging the leadership and positive influence the Year 9 cohort has had on the wider Calrossy 7–9 community. He commended them for living out the School’s core values—Resilience, Selflessness, Integrity, and Inclusiveness—not only in leadership roles but in everyday actions that contributed to a strong and supportive culture.

Head of Middle School, Mr Sam Anderson, reflected on the cohort’s journey through adolescence, praising their character and growth. He concluded with a thought-provoking sentiment: “Someone’s loss is someone else’s gain,” noting that while the Middle School will miss them dearly, the Senior School gains young people of substance and strength.

The assembly was rich with student voice. Year 7 leaders Nellie Tink and William Yeo described how the Year 9s transformed from “scary giants” into trusted role models and “the best friends we didn’t know we needed.” They shared how the Year 9s showed them that being part of a team meant more than winning carnivals, and even gave a shout-out to their surfing skills and boarding lunch line protection.

Year 8 leaders Ruby Cook and Aleksey Chambers echoed these sentiments, thanking the Year 9s for their inclusiveness and encouragement, and recognising the example they set in embracing every aspect of Calrossy life.

Year 9 leaders Max Yeo and Ruby Irwin responded with a mix of humour and heart. They spoke of the memories that will stay with them—expeditions like Scotts Head and Pindari Dam, the “character-building” moments (including an early morning beach run for waking Mr Starr at 3am), and the sense of unity that developed as they grew into the ‘big kids’ of the Middle School.

Their Year 9 Advisor, Mrs Ali Bath, offered her own reflections, looking back to Head Start Day in Year 7 when she first met the group. She spoke of how they’ve consistently shown up for each other, learned to navigate life, and yes—how they challenged Mr Anderson’s infamous hat policy, which may have saved them from more than a few sunburns and skin cancers.

Mrs Bath also had the honour of presenting the Kindness Awards to three Year 9 students, as voted by their peers earlier in the year. This special recognition celebrates those who consistently demonstrated compassion, empathy and quiet leadership, and was a meaningful reminder of the positive impact kindness has in our community.

To close the formalities, students presented heartfelt gifts of appreciation to Mrs Bath, Mrs Murrie and Mr Starr in thanks for their guidance and support. In true Calrossy spirit, Mr Anderson received a farewell gift of a straw hat—a playful nod to the Middle School’s most talked-about sun safety rule.

Mrs Murrie captured the heart of the occasion with a beautiful, heartfelt poem written especially for the Year 9 cohort, celebrating their growth, friendship, and the journey they’ve shared.

Mr Starr was visibly moved by his surprise gift from the Year 9 boys—a signed Wallabies football featuring every one of their names. In his short speech, he expressed deep appreciation for the group, acknowledging their camaraderie, spirit, and the memories they created together.

The celebration continued with performances that showcased the energy and personality of the cohort. The Year 9 girls took to the stage with a lively, choreographed performance of Valerie by Amy Winehouse, while the boys brought big energy and plenty of smiles with their PE dance to songs by Imagine Dragons.

A nostalgic slideshow followed, filled with laughter and joy as students looked back on their Middle School years—from expedition highlights to ordinary days that shaped extraordinary friendships.

This farewell was more than an end—it was a celebration of the journey, and a recognition of how these students have led with integrity, humour and heart.

As they move into Senior Secondary, we celebrate all they’ve brought to the Calrossy 7–9 community—and look forward to the hope and change they’ll continue to create.

A photo gallery from the assembly is available for Calrossy families on The Hub.