Blog

Across the country, Stars Foundation programs have been buzzing with activities that encourage students to aim high and dream big. Whether in the classroom, on the sporting field, or within community and cultural spaces, First Nations Stars students are benefiting from the mentoring and support that they need to thrive.

Term 3 has been a season of momentum and pride as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students continue their journeys towards graduation and beyond. The following stories showcase some of the inspiring highlights from Stars programs around the country.

Tamworth Stars Enjoy Western Sydney Adventure in NSW

Selected Year 11 Stars students from Tamworth High School in NSW with an attendance rate of 90% or above were recently rewarded with an unforgettable overnight excursion to Cables Wake Park in Penrith, NSW.

​The adventure began with a visit Australia’s first inverted house titled ‘House Down Under’ in Sydney. The students had a fantastic time navigating the topsy-turvy rooms, attempting to reach ’ceiling’ furniture including coffee tables and couches, and all while snapping surreal and hilarious photos. The experience sparked laughter, creativity and some memorable poses.

Excitement mounted with a memorable Sydney Harbour Bridge climb which was an incredible experience offering breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. Additional highlights included a round of aqua golf, sharing stories together over lunch and dinner and generally enjoying each other’s company.

It was a well-deserved reward for the student’s dedication and excellent attendance- a trip filled with laughter, bonding and unforgettable memories.

Inaugural Netball Carnival is a Winner for SA and VIC Stars

Years 7-9 students from seven Stars programs from South Australia and Western Victoria recently met and merged forces for the inaugural netball carnival.

Stars students from Chaffey Secondary College and Robinvale College in Victoria were excited to meet Stars students from Ocean View College, Para Hills High School, Paralowie R-12 School, Wirreanda Secondary School and Christies Beach High School in Adelaide, South Australia.

The young women competed in a friendly round robin of netball, which for many, was the first time they had played the game! Everyone participated with plenty of enthusiasm and awesome sportsmanship.  A combined Stars student team also competed against the Mentors in a highly competitive and fierce competition, with the Mentors being victorious!

There were also community partners hosting exhibition stands for the young women to meet and learn from throughout the day. Special thanks to Toby from Head Space Port Adelaide, Dylan from Shine SA and Max from Foodbank SA for sharing your time and insights with our young women. Thanks also to Nicole from Woodville for suppling and cooking a delicious BBQ lunch.

To complete a wonderful day, Stars students were treated to a colour fun run and many new friendships, lots of laughter and smiles were shared by all. When travelling home, students shared that they are already looking forward to the next carnival!

Creativity in Full Bloom for Broome Stars at TAFE in WA

Year 9 Stars students from Broome Senior High School recently visited Broome TAFE to participate in an exciting introductory Floristry course. During the visit, students enjoyed the opportunity to create their own flower arrangements, buttonholes, and corsages, while gaining insight into the floristry industry.

The hands-on experience allowed the girls to express their creativity, learn new skills, and explore potential career pathways in floristry. It was an engaging and inspiring day, and the girls came away with new knowledge and some beautiful floral creations.

Townsville Stars Share Joy of Reading on Indigenous Literacy Day in QLD

Year 8 Stars students from Heatley Secondary College in Townsville, Queensland, visited Carinity Education Shalom to read books to the Years 1 and 2 students to honour Indigenous Literacy Day.

The students sat in groups and picked out their favourite books to read to the younger students, and they sat quietly while listening to the girls read stories including ‘The Hungry Caterpillar’, ‘Wombat Stew’ and ‘Bluey’.

Some of the younger students were even inspired to have a go at reading as well. It was wonderful to see Stars students interact and inspire the younger children to explore and enjoy their favourite stories.

Darwin Stars Explore Maritime Services Industry in NT

Year 12 Stars students from Haileybury Rendall School, Palmerston College, and Casuarina College in Darwin, participated in a site tour and an inspiring and informative experience of the BMD Darwin Lift Ship project. The site forms a key part of the Northern Territory Government’s collaboration with BMD to develop a hub for the region’s maritime services industry.

During the visit, students engaged with BMD’s female professionals who shared insights into their career journeys, pathways into the industry, and upcoming employment opportunities. The event offered students the chance to ask questions, network, and gain a deeper understanding of potential future careers in the maritime and construction sectors.

The proceedings concluded with an enjoyable morning tea which gave students an opportunity to connect and reflect on the experience and the potential opportunities ahead.

Stars Delivers Holistic Program

Stars Foundation provides a holistic, full-time and in-school mentoring program that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls and young women to identify their goals and reach their full potential.

The Stars program focuses on four pillars designed to improve health and education outcomes. These include:

• Education, Training and Employment – encourages active engagement in education and the development of positive plans for a successful transition into employment or further study.
• Healthy Lifestyles – addresses healthy habits for life including nutrition, self-care and personal hygiene, sport, and fitness.
• Wellbeing – focuses on personal wellbeing and mental health.
• Community, Culture and Leadership – celebrates First Nations culture and encourages activity within communities which develops confidence and pride.

Stars Mentors across Australia are currently turning their attention to supporting students through the final term and completion of the school year which, will involve end of year celebrations for students completing school.