First Nations graduates aim high
Schools
Catholic Education South Australia (CESA) held a special graduation ceremony on September 23 for First Nations Year 12 students completing studies in a Catholic school.

A Welcome to Country, presented by Cliffy Wilson from Kuma Kaaru, was a poignant way to begin CESA’s annual celebration held at the National Wine Centre.
Each year a student is asked to speak on behalf of the graduating group. Crystal Edwards, captain of the Aboriginal Program at Sacred Heart College, spoke about the value of support networks in a Catholic school and thanked people who supported students to achieve their SACE.
“I am a proud Aboriginal woman, currently boarding at Sacred Heart College and raised in Whyalla on Bungarla Country,” Crystal said. “It is an honour to stand before you today on behalf of my fellow Year 12 students as we celebrate this important milestone.”
In attendance were 37 Year 12 students from 15 Catholic schools. Year 11 students were also invited as an opportunity to see their peers achieve success.
Family members, key school support staff and school principals also attended.
“Today is also an opportunity to thank those who have helped us get here,” Crystal said. “None of us arrived at this moment alone. Whether it’s family, teachers, boarding community, or friends, they have all played important roles in our journey.”
“I want to acknowledge how much work you have done, and how much you have learnt,” said Dr Neil McGoran, executive director of Catholic Education SA.
“May these last few weeks of school and the next few years be times when you feel the freedoms of youth. When you feel like anything can be achieved. At the same time, I wish you the gift of gratitude. Gratitude for the support of your family and friends: and gratitude for your school and teachers.”
The Year 12 students were presented with a ‘Completion of Studies Certificate’ along with a signed and numbered copy of an artwork titled ‘Mothers of Country’ by local artist David Booth. David also played the yidaki (didgeridoo) and Fr Tom Gleeson led a reflection and prayer.
“Attending a Catholic school has provided more than just an education – it has given us a framework for life,” Crystal said. “It’s a framework that prioritises justice, equality, service, and community. We have learned that knowledge is not just about academic success but about how we use it to make a difference in the world.”
On September 25, the Aboriginal Education Team travelled to Port Augusta to host a smaller event at the Arid Lands Café in recognition of Aboriginal Year 12 students in regional and remote Catholic schools.
“Our thanks must go to Ms Margaret Bressan, administrator, CESA Learning Diversity and Wellbeing for her efforts in supporting this event and to the CESA staff and supporters who helped put it all together,” said Geoff Aufderheide, CESA Senior Education Advisor, Aboriginal Education.