downlands_college_toowoomba

Exploring Futures in Agriculture, Science and Technology: Chelsea’s Experience

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 00:10:59 GMT

Meet Chelsea, a dedicated Year 12 student from ��ͼ��, who recently had the opportunity to participate in the Future Experiences in Agriculture, Science, and Technology (FEAST) program at the University of Queensland (UQ) Gatton Campus. This residential program, designed for senior high school students, offers a glimpse into the world of agriculture, veterinary science, and technology, aiming to inspire the next generation of professionals in these critical fields. Chelsea’s journey through FEAST was nothing short of transformative, providing her with invaluable insights and experiences.

Discovering the Purpose of FEAST

The FEAST program showcases the extensive agriculture, veterinary, and science facilities at UQ Gatton as well as highlights the diverse career and educational opportunities available through the university in this field of study. Participants have the chance to interact with university academics, researchers, and industry networks, gaining firsthand experience that could shape their future aspirations.

Hands-On Learning Experiences

During the FEAST program, Chelsea explored opportunities at UQ, delved into the intricacies of different cuts of beef and cooking methods, and learned about seed germination and root activity. The program also introduced her to agriculture and veterinary researchers, as well as topics on food sustainability and veterinary careers. Chelsea appreciated the dedication of the professors and scientists who not only answered questions but also inspired curiosity and passion over the course of the three-day event. The program wasn’t all work and no play; it included memorable bonding activities within each of the groups of students and even a fun-filled disco night.

Highlights and Takeaways

When asked about her favourite part of the program, Chelsea highlighted the inspiring talk by Professor Sagadevan Mundree on sustainable agriculture. This session ignited her interest in the field and opened her eyes to the global possibilities of sustainable practices. Additionally, Chelsea enjoyed networking with other students through various activities that allowed her to form lasting friendships, making the experience even more special.

Future Aspirations in Agriculture

Looking ahead, Chelsea is eager to pursue a career in agriculture with a focus on sustainability. While she hasn’t yet pinpointed a specific path, she believes that more experiences like FEAST will help her refine her goals. Her ambition is to ensure that agricultural production is both sustainable and optimised for quality and quantity.

Influences and Support

Chelsea credits her parents for influencing her interest in the FEAST program. They encouraged her to connect with like-minded individuals and explore her passions, a decision that proved to be incredibly beneficial. She also acknowledges the positive impact of the College's Learning Pathways team that introduced her to the program and her Agricultural Science classes that provided a solid foundation in agriculture and biology, steering her interest in sustainable agriculture.

Reflecting on the Journey

Chelsea’s experience at UQ Gatton’s FEAST program was a pivotal moment in her educational journey. It not only broadened her understanding of the agricultural sciences but also solidified her passion for making a meaningful impact in the field. With the support of her family and the ��ͼ�� Learning Pathways team, Chelsea is well on her way to a promising future in sustainable agriculture, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Chelsea’s story is a testament to the power of experiential learning and the importance of support systems in shaping a student’s future. Programs like FEAST play a crucial role in inspiring young minds, offering them the tools and knowledge they need to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.

Amy's Journey to Bond University: A Glimpse into the Future

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 23:13:58 GMT

Amy, a current Year 12 Downlands student, recently participated in the Bond University Business School Year 12 Extension Program. The program aims to enhance high school education and ready students for university life. Outstanding students from the workshop sessions on campus received a partial tuition scholarship for an undergraduate program at Bond University the next year. Amy, one of the high achievers, earned a scholarship for her 2025 tuition at Bond University. We had a conversation with Amy to delve deeper into her time in the Bond University Year 12 Extension Program.

What were your experiences like as a student taking part in the program?

The program is about offering potential future students the chance to develop skills in the business area and give them a taste of what life as a Bond University student could be like. We completed various practical tasks such as creating a prototype and business proposal in 10 minutes to meet a need given to us in a brief. We also participated in workshops on how to 'excel in Excel,' experienced Bond University student life on a campus tour and designed an event to boost tourism in Australia.

What did you gain from this experience?

I gained friendships with the different participants, a scholarship towards my tuition next year, and knowledge that I feel sets me ahead of the curve for when I start at Bond University next year.

How do you feel to have completed the program?

Completing the program gave me a sense of accomplishment, as well as the reassurance that this area of study is the field I would love to study post-high school.

What do you hope to study at Bond University?

I hope to study a double major in marketing and entrepreneurship at the Bond University Business School. I love the creative aspects of both fields as well as the amount of post-graduate opportunities this degree will offer. Becoming an entrepreneur who develops something beneficial and influential, and witnessing its widespread use, would be a surreal feeling I hope to achieve one day.

Were there any experiences or people that influenced your decision in future study?

The person who supported me the most with this opportunity was Mrs Katie Wright, the Curriculum Leader of Learning Pathways and ��ͼ�� VET Coordinator. Mrs Wright was the first teacher I wanted to talk about my achievement with, and I wouldn’t have participated in the program had she not encouraged me to. My sister also played a role in my decision-making process. She is an alumnus of Bond University and her positive experiences during her law degree studies there were a great source of inspiration for me. Bond has always been my number one pick for university, and this programme has made the possibility for me to attend a reality.

Amy's progress showcases the support and growth opportunities offered by the Downlands Learning Pathways and VET team at the College. Looking ahead to her time at Bond University, Amy brings along valuable skills, friendships, and experiences that will greatly influence her university experience and future endeavours. As Amy looks forward to her future at Bond, she carries with her the skills, friendships, and experiences that will undoubtedly shape her university life and beyond. For students like Amy, the Bond University Business School Year 12 Extension Program is more than just a stepping stone: it's the start of an exciting and promising journey.

O'Callaghan Cup | Downlands Grammar Day

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 23:59:24 GMT

Saturday 31 August will be a day to remember with ��ͼ�� going head-to-head with Toowoomba Grammar School in the 75th annual O'Callaghan Cup, and our Rugby Sevens girls playing The Glennie School for the Selena Worsley Cup. This year's games are played at ��ͼ��.

History

In 1950 the five O'Callaghan brothers, Jim (34-36), Jack (34-38), Mick (38-38), Frank (38-38) and Bryan (38-42), generously donated the illustrious O'Callaghan Cup in honour of the wonderful competition and sportsmanship of the game of rugby played between ��ͼ�� and Toowoomba Grammar School.

“We are not enemies……we are rivals, the closest of friends and the fiercest of rivals.” The tradition continues with each passing year, as new generations of students take to the field, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and competition that the O'Callaghan brothers so cherished. The cup has become more than just a trophy; it is a symbol of enduring friendship, respect, and the pursuit of excellence.

Both schools eagerly anticipate the annual match, preparing with unwavering dedication and passion. The excitement builds as the day approaches, with students, staff, past students, and thousands of local supporters coming together to celebrate this storied rivalry.

Event Day Information

Events

Leading into O'Callaghan Cup, ��ͼ�� is hosting a Rugby Long Lunch on Friday 30 August, open to all to attend. On the evening after the main game there will be a Past Student Function held at ��ͼ��. Read more below.

Downlands merchandise

To commemorate the 75th year of the O'Callaghan Cup, there will be a special 75 Years Commemorative Long-Sleeved Shirt available for pre-order. Additionally, a limited edition Downlander shirt will be available on the day of the O'Callaghan Cup, taking place on Saturday 31 August.

Raffle: O'Callaghan Cup Downlands Grammar Split Jersey

Currently the only one available, this split jersey for the O'Callaghan Cup features a unique design that combines the colours and insignia of both competing teams. The left side of the jersey showcases ��ͼ��, while the right side represents Toowoomba Grammar. This special jersey symbolises the spirit of unity and sportsmanship, emphasising the coming together of rival teams for a common cause. It is a tangible representation of the camaraderie and mutual respect that are quintessential to the O'Callaghan Cup. This raffle is drawn at 3pm, Saturday 31 August.

From Classroom to Cattle: Georgia's Experience at Beef Week 2024

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 01:41:51 GMT

When it comes to the vibrant world of cattle shows, few students can boast the level of dedication and experience that Georgia, a Year 11 student at ��ͼ��, brings to the table. With nearly seven years under her belt as part of the school's Cattle Show Team, Georgia’s passion for the cattle industry is both deep-rooted and evident in her enthusiasm. Georgia recently won BEEF 2024’s Commercial Young Judges competition placing first out of 250 other competitors. Georgia also placed second in the young Stud Judges competition.

A Lifelong Passion for Cattle

Georgia began her journey with the Cattle Show Team in Year 5, driven by her longstanding interest and familial background in the cattle industry. "I have always been interested in cattle showing as I have always had a background in the cattle industry," she explains. This early exposure has clearly shaped her commitment and expertise, making her a valuable member of the team.

Sharing Knowledge and Building Community

One of Georgia’s favourite aspects of being on the Cattle Show Team is the opportunity to share her extensive knowledge with others and collaborate with students of all ages. "My favourite thing about cattle show is getting to share my knowledge with other people and being able to work with students of all ages," she says. This sense of community and mentorship is a cornerstone of her experience, fostering a supportive environment for everyone involved.

Hands-On Learning at Rockhampton BEEF Week

During Rockhampton BEEF Week, Georgia, along with her team, took on the role of working for a stud or fitting service. This hands-on experience provided them with an invaluable glimpse into the day-to-day operations of the cattle industry. "At BEEF we were working for a stud or fitting service and getting firsthand experience in what it's like working in the industry," she shares. This practical exposure is designed to enhance their knowledge and potentially pave the way for future job opportunities within the field.

A Day in the Life on a Stud

Working for a stud is no easy feat, as Georgia can attest. The days are long and start early—around 4am—to ensure everything is prepped and ready for the day ahead. Show days, in particular, are hectic, with everyone pitching in to get the work done efficiently.

Gaining Valuable Industry Contacts

The experience at BEEF Week has not only deepened Georgia's understanding of the cattle industry but has also expanded her professional network. "From working at BEEF, I have gained a lot more contacts within the industry and have also received many job opportunities working with other studs at shows," she says. These connections are crucial for her future career prospects and highlight the importance of such immersive experiences.

Georgia’s journey with the Cattle Show Team and her experiences at Rockhampton BEEF Week serves as an inspiring example of how passion, dedication, and hands-on learning can open doors to future opportunities. Her story is a testament to the value of early involvement in industry-related activities and the lifelong benefits they can provide.

A Day in the Life of a Downlands Student at Rockhampton BEEF Week

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 01:29:04 GMT

Rockhampton BEEF Week is a significant event for those passionate about the cattle industry, and for Hamish, a Year 11 student at ��ͼ��, it is an experience brimming with learning and excitement. Hamish alongside three other Downlanders was a part of the winning team that took out first place in the Schools Team Judging competition. We sat down with Hamish to understand what a typical day looks like and what the event means to him.

What’s your name and what year level are you in?

Hamish in Year 11.

How long have you been a part of the Cattle Show Team here at Downlands?

I’ve been part of the College's Cattle Show Team for two years but have shown cattle beforehand.

Have you always been interested in being part of the Cattle Show Team?

I have always been interested in the Cattle Show Team, and it influenced my decision to move to Downlands.

What is your favourite thing about being in the Cattle Show Team?

My favourite thing about being a part of the Cattle Show Team is the new experiences and opportunities around the beef industry, as well as the chance to meet new people from different grades and create new friendships.

What have you been doing at BEEF? What has your experience been so far?

At BEEF, I worked for a local cattle stud that had three different breeds of cattle including Limousines, Angus, and Brahmans. We have competed in the prime judges, team judges, and stud judges’ competitions, where the school was very successful. My experience so far has been unreal. I have enjoyed every minute of it, meeting new faces in the industry and learning new skills from the best of the best.

What does working for a stud look like? What’s a day in the life?

Getting out of bed around 4am is common, before cleaning out the cattle stalls and feeding the cattle. If the cattle are being shown, we must wash, blow dry, and comb the cattle to show them off to their best ability. Then, we go into the cattle ring with other cattle of the same breed to compare which animal is superior on a range of criteria.

What opportunities do you think you’ll get or have received from being at BEEF and working for a stud?

After winning stud young judges for my age group, I have been invited to be the associate judge at the Esk Show later in the year. Judging is an opportunity for the community to see your ability to compare and assess cattle. Additionally, I am discussing career options in the agriculture industry with different companies promoting various programs to school graduates to see what they have to offer.

Hamish’s journey at Rockhampton BEEF Week is a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of young individuals in the agricultural sector. Through hard work and a passion for cattle, Hamish is not only gaining invaluable experience but also paving the way for a promising future in the industry.

Faces of Downlands: Meet Kerri and Pauline

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 05:38:35 GMT

Here at Downlands, we have many faces. Faces you may have never met before and faces you see regularly. But, behind each face at Downlands is the heart of the College. Meet Pauline and Kerri; With a combined 41 years here at Downlands, they're the face of our front office.

What is your role at Downlands, and how long have you been a Downlander?
Kerri: I have worked at Downlands for 24 years. I work in the Front Office, Administration, which involves answering the phone, maintaining student attendance records and assisting with student and parent enquiries.
Pauline: I've worked at ��ͼ�� for 17 Years, in the Front Office, Administration. Both Kerri and I are often the first people you will see when entering the College, as we are located at Reception to assist you with your enquiries.

What aspect do you enjoy the most about your role?
Kerri: I love meeting new students and their families and watching them grow throughout the years. I also enjoy seeing our students develop their passions and interests whilst achieving their goals here at Downlands.
Pauline: I enjoy welcoming and helping whoever may come through the door next. Whether it's a new family starting their Downlands' journey or if it's a current family who needs assistance.

What is your favourite Downlands event and why?
Kerri: I have two favourite Downlands events: 1. Downlands Art Exhibition: It is amazing to watch it come alive and the finished result is always exceptional. 2. The College Musical: watching the work that teachers and students put into it is outstanding. The finished product is a joy to watch, and rivals many professional musicals.
Pauline: The Art Exhibition is my favourite event. The Downlands Art Exhibition is a world class exhibition and is a wonderful opportunity to welcome the extended community to our College.

What is your favourite aspect about Downlands?
Kerri: My favourite part about Downlands is the students, and meeting the MSC priests and Brothers.
Pauline: I love the view from Asprey (building) verandah. We have a magnificent campus and I appreciate the work that our Facility Staff do to help maintain it.

What do you think it means to be a true Downlander?
Kerri: To be a true Downlander means to always be aware of others and have a good social justice ethic.
Pauline: To be a true Downlander means to be honest, inclusive and be interested in the people around you and to give a little of yourself each day to help others.

Tell us about you, what do you do in your downtime?
Kerri: I enjoy spending time with Family and Friends and suffer the rollercoaster ride of barracking for Collingwood.
Pauline: I love spending time with family and friends and any spare time I probably need to be in the paddock on our small farm chasing weeds!

A piece of advice for our current students and/or their families?
Kerri: Embrace the opportunities that Downlands offer. You will make lifelong friends whether you're staff, student or family.
Pauline: Allow yourself to enjoy the opportunities that come your way. Be kind and respectful to the people you meet.

How Agricultural Science led to our giant pumpkin success

Thu, 04 May 2023 22:40:20 GMT

In case you haven't heard, here at Downlands, we don't just specialise in exceptional education, we also excel in growing giant award-winning pumpkins. 202kg of pumpkin to be exact!

Our Year 9 and 10 Agricultural Science students recently entered the EKKA's Giant Pumpkin Competition and were awarded first place for the show's largest pumpkin. But, you may be wondering, what does growing giant pumpkins have to do with exceptional education?

Our students spent hours learning theoretical and practical knowledge on all things horticulture to be able to succeed in the growing process. Agricultural Science is an integral part of the Science curriculum at Downlands. The subject provides opportunities for students of all ages to participate in a variety of projects at the 14-hectare on-site farm.

Downlands is a proud partner and a Gateway School to Agribusiness which aims to help young people make a successful transition from school into further education and/or employment. The project encourages partnerships between schools, training (VET), universities and industry to provide career opportunities for young people.

The program provides opportunities for students and school communities to engage in a diverse range of careers across businesses based on primary industries. Students are able to gain valuable experience in the industry while still at school, providing them with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about training and employment upon leaving school, by raising the profile of careers in the Agribusiness sector.

If you're interested in finding out more about our Agricultural Science program here at Downlands, book a personalised tour here.

Miss Gilbar's Hockey Success

jai@clearpixel.com.au (Jai Warner) — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 05:10:18 GMT

Miss Holly Gilbar, a current ��ͼ�� Year 6 teacher, has recently been announced as a team member of the Hockey Australia Squad for the Hockey5s World Cup in Oman next year. We sat down with Miss Gilbar to find out more about her history in the sport and what she's most looking forward to when representing Australia.

How long have you been playing hockey for?

I have been playing field hockey since I was 8 years old. My sister was playing and I thought it looked great. In 2018 I took up indoor hockey which is a smaller and faster version of the game. This will be my first year of Hockey5s as it is the first time that Australia will have a competitive opens team.

What are some of your most notable hockey achievements to date?

After less than 16 months in the sport, I was selected in the Australian Indoor Hockey World Cup squad. I trained as a member of this squad for the three-year lead up to the World Cup, however, a significant knee injury withdrew me from final selection. I have also been a member of the Australian Country field hockey team. This selection in the Hockey5s World Cup squad is my third opportunity to represent Australia in a different variation of the sport.

What are you most looking forward to at the Hockey5s World Cup in Oman?

This tournament will be the inaugural World Cup for Hockey5s. I'm looking forward to the atmosphere of international competition and am excited about the opportunity to be a pioneering member of this variation of hockey, especially as there is currently a push to have Hockey 5's included in the Olympics.

Do you think learning a team sport can benefit school-aged children? If so, why?

Learning a team sport is an amazing opportunity for school aged children as it can teach them life skills within a safe, supportive and fun environment. There is no better way to develop resilience, problem-solving, teamwork, communication and social skills whilst also building your strength and fitness. Plus, it's great fun!

Downlands – Where your heart finds a home

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 06:09:33 GMT

“The heart is the dwelling place where I am, the place to which I withdraw, our hidden centre. Only the Spirit can fathom the human heart. The heart is the place of decision, of truth, of encounter, of covenant.” (Catechism 2563)

“In our MSC schools, no one is a stranger, no one is a foreigner, we are all one in the Heart of Christ.” Jules Chevalier, Le Sacré-Coeur

Inevitably, hopefully, at some point of their Downlands journey, our students will ask, “How can I set about living the unique, authentic, heartfelt life that only I can live - with purpose and passion, grace and generosity, and above all with gratitude and a desire to be of service to others?” 1 . An environment where one’s heart finds a home, and is ‘at home’, is one in which students can comfortably ask this question, and where there is innate understanding that the searching is part of the journey. It is only in a school where a student’s heart feels at home, where there is a shared humanity, where there is a felt concern for the “subjectivity and identity” of each child, that the child will learn the dignity of self and others, and intricately woven with the pursuit of truth and excellence will always be the search for meaning and purpose in life – the “Who am I?” question.

To be able to grow and flourish as people of kindness, compassion, humility, gentleness and courage, both students and adults in our Downlands community must feel at ease, and must experience the school environment as sanctuary, as community, as a place ‘to come home to’

and in which to feel ‘at home’ amid the pace and compelling demands of life. As the saying goes, ‘Home is where the heart is’, a place where one can truly be oneself, and often, this is an intangible place – a feeling, an understanding.

One might say that this feeling, this understanding, this ‘intangible’, flows from our Spirituality of the Heart, which permeates all aspects of life at Downlands and nestles so beautifully with young people’s attraction to recover the sacred and mystical potentials of our faith tradition, and indeed of their true selves. It is this spirituality, well lived, which ensures that our College community is indeed a place ‘where your heart finds a home’- where the heart comes home to itself.

“Heart” - the most common word used in the Bible (over 800 times) to refer to the inner depths of a person … is described as “the essence of a person; in the eyes of God, the heart is the real person.” (Dennis Murphy MSC). At Downlands, we are committed to compassionate acceptance of this “essence”, of every individual, in all their differences, uniqueness, strengths, vulnerabilities and weaknesses. We recognise that only in a place where one’s heart - oneself - is at home, and which is a life-enhancing environment, will growth occur. And it is only in daily creating a place where the hearts of all members of the Downlands community can find a home, a place where all in our community can flourish, that we can be true to our mission as an MSC school.

It is entirely plausible that our young people intuitively know what their hearts need, that their hearts thirst for ‘home’, for a place where there can be the gentle nourishment needed for the development of the whole person, a place of belonging and a place for self -acceptance, as it is self -acceptance which gives one ‘peace of heart’.

This claim is significant, and it calls us to strive to do all we can to ensure that it is one we live authentically. If Catholic schools are increasingly “serv[ing] young people and adults as the face and place of the Church” 2 , then they must be places of becoming, of “learning human” (Les Murray), places full of “signposts showing the young the way to their hearts”. They must be places where the heart feels at home, can find a home and can flourish along the way of the “longest journey anyone will ever make - the journey to one’s heart” 3 .

Downlands is a place where one’s heart can find a home - where students can grow and flourish as they develop a sense of truth, goodness and beauty and so be ready to go out and to make a difference in the world.

“The heart is the mystical core of the person...the deepest part of the person, the essence...the place of profound connection with others and with the universe...the place where body, mind and spirit co-exist, the place of completeness...the centre of our being, the place from which we relate with others most deeply and most closely...the place where we feel most profoundly the joys and the path of life ..the place where we can encounter the Sacred.” 4

1. Maher, A. Hanley, B. (OAM) Educating Hearts -Seven Characteristics of a Good School. (NSW: St Paul’s, 2013), p. xv

2. Prof J Sullivan in Gowdie, J. Stirring the Soul of Catholic Education. (Vic: Vaughan Publishing, 2017)

3. Maher, A. Hanley, B. (OAM) 2013. op. cit., p 93

4. Writings on Heart Spirituality

Profile: Georgia Poole (Class Of 2019)

jai@clearpixel.com.au (Jai Warner) — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 23:53:09 GMT

It was lovely to see a story about graduate Georgia Poole in The Chronicle last week. The 2019 Dux of the College, Georgia achieved an OP1 and is the recipient of a University of Southern Queensland (USQ) Chancellor's Scholarship. Georgia will soon commence her Bachelor of Biomedical Science degree at USQ. We asked Georgia to share some advice for current students as well as her future hopes and dreams ...

Tell us about your connection with Downlands

I’m a third generation Downlander (my parents and grandfather having attending school here) and so my family was very familiar with the culture and ethos of Downlands, which is one of the primary reasons we chose it as a school. During my years at Downlands I found it easy to make a number of friends across all levels and to be involved in many different aspects of the school. In fact, this became what I regard as one of the school’s most inviting aspects - it’s strong culture of inclusivity. Downlands provided me with a multitude of opportunities through co-curricular options such as netball, volleyball, and numerous other academically and community-aligned groups, as well as a network of people I am able to rely on. I look forward to moving on to Biomedical Science at university, but will always have fond memories of my years at Downlands.

What is your fondest memory of Downlands?

I have many fond memories of Downlands, though what I enjoyed most of all were the bonding opportunities during the Senior retreats. These allowed the Senior year level to know each other at a deeper level, and is one of the contributing factors to the great sense of community at Downlands.

What was your favourite subject and teacher?

My favourite subject and teacher was definitely Biology with Mrs Weller. The content was always very interesting and compelled me to delve further into whichever field or topic we were studying at the time. Mrs Weller was a wonderful teacher, often going above and beyond to provide thorough resources on topics I was interested in or working on, and this is likely one of the factors which led me towards my desired career path of scientific research and medicine.

Area/s of Achievement

One of my proudest academic achievements would have to be Dux of the College. I was really happy to earn that award, especially because there were so many other talented students in our year level. It required a lot of hard work and a few sleepless nights studying but it was really worth it to find what I’m capable of when I put my mind to something.

I played both netball and volleyball in my younger years at Downlands and was in the Belles Firsts Volleyball team for my Senior years. In Year 11, the boys and girls firsts teams were lucky enough to play in a national volleyball competition in Melbourne. This was a great opportunity to test and improve our skills as a team, as well as get to know one another better through living and commuting together for the week. In Year 12, I received the Volleyball Girls Team Leadership Award. I was also involved in several community groups within the school including DIVAS and the Jules Social Justice group; and volunteered in many other roles within the College including as a Year 7/8 buddy, an Open Day tour guide, a dinner service team leader, a school social supervisor, and a senior ‘clown’ for the Junior School Tradition and Spirit Day.

Any philosophies you live by, things have aided your success/es

There are two messages in particular which have resonated with me. These are “Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world”, and “In the middle of difficulty, lies opportunity.” Albert Einstein, widely recognized as one of the greatest minds of all time, said both. To me, the implication of the first is that in order to make true progression in any field, one needs to have a creative vision – a unique way to approach challenges and to test new ideas. The sophisticated medical technologies we have today would have been incomprehensible to those who lived hundreds of years ago. We have reached this point due to the creative vision and dedicated work of many gifted people. The latter message has encouraged me to view the inevitable challenges sure to arise in any course of work not as setbacks, but as opportunities to work on unique solutions through the application of critical and abstract thinking, thereby encouraging a more thorough contemplation of the task at hand from a multitude of angles, serving - when paired with the proper drive - to inevitably improve the end results.

Any advice for seniors?

My advice for Senior students is to remember that although there is a lot of work to focus on in Senior school, not to let themselves get too stressed about it, but to enjoy their final years and to explore as many opportunities as they can.

Tell us about what you’re doing now that you’ve graduated?

Since graduating I have been accepted into a Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences at USQ, and will be completing this as an undergraduate course before hopefully sitting the Gamsat and going into medicine.

Future hopes and dreams – what will you be doing ten years from now?

I hope to eventually work as a rural doctor and perhaps incorporate medical research into my career.

downlands_college_toowoomba

Exploring Futures in Agriculture, Science and Technology: Chelsea’s Experience

Read More Downlands news

Amy's Journey to Bond University: A Glimpse into the Future

Read More Downlands news

O'Callaghan Cup | Downlands Grammar Day

History

Event Day Information

Events

Downlands merchandise

Raffle: O'Callaghan Cup Downlands Grammar Split Jersey

From Classroom to Cattle: Georgia's Experience at Beef Week 2024

Read More Downlands news

A Day in the Life of a Downlands Student at Rockhampton BEEF Week

Read More Downlands news

Faces of Downlands: Meet Kerri and Pauline

How Agricultural Science led to our giant pumpkin success

Miss Gilbar's Hockey Success

Downlands – Where your heart finds a home

“The heart is the dwelling place where I am, the place to which I withdraw, our hidden centre. Only the Spirit can fathom the human heart. The heart is the place of decision, of truth, of encounter, of covenant.” (Catechism 2563)

Profile: Georgia Poole (Class Of 2019)