Term 2 was filled with incredible opportunities for Stars students across Australia, with 4,300+ First Nations young women taking part in experiences that strengthened their confidence, broadened their horizons and deepened their connection to culture, community and learning.
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; Healthy Lifestyles; Wellbeing; and Community, Culture and Leadership.
Alice Springs Stars Travel from NT to Sydney for Cultural Pathways Program
Eight Year 10 Stars students from Centralian Senior College in Alice Springs, NT, were rewarded with an exciting trip to Sydney to participate in the Grounded Pathways Program, while also enjoying a memorable experience filled with many first-time opportunities and lasting memories.
Students were selected for the trip in recognition of their outstanding commitment to the Stars Program and their strong attendance throughout the year. During the Cultural Pathways Program, they participated in a range of engaging workshops focused on personal growth, wellbeing, and future success.
Students also experienced a range of exciting activities that showcased the culture, sport, and attractions of Sydney. This included visiting Taronga Zoo Sydney, seeing the spectacular displays of Vivid Sydney, and participating in the NIEC Boxing Program in Redfern. The young women also toured the training facilities of the Sydney Swans, gaining insight into the professionalism and dedication required of elite athletes.
Two highlights of the trip were a cultural cruise with Tribal Warrior, where students learned about the rich history and culture of local Aboriginal people, and attending an exciting NRL match between the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles and the South Sydney Rabbitohs. The students embraced the atmosphere and excitement of experiencing live professional sport, making it a memorable end to their trip.
The trip provided valuable learning experiences beyond the classroom, helping students develop important life skills, experience new environments, strengthen their confidence, and create lifelong memories with their peers. It was a well-deserved reward for their dedication, positive attitude, and commitment to the Stars Program, and an experience that will continue to inspire them as they pursue their future goals and pathways.
Special thanks to the following organisations for helping bring this memorable experience to life: National Apprentice Employment Network Indigenous Skills and Employment Program (ISEP) at National Indigenous Australians Agency; and Group Training Northern Territory (GTNT Group).
Great Start to Murray Bridge Stars Program in SA
Murray Bridge High School in South Australia is one of five new Stars Programs in 2026. Officially commencing in Term 2, the Program has already seen strong engagement and participation from Stars students.
Throughout the term, the girls have enthusiastically taken part in a range of sporting activities, including netball, basketball, volleyball, and soccer. They have also enjoyed a variety of creative and social activities such as karaoke, jewellery making, cooking, board games, and scrapbooking.
A highlight of each week is a Friday lunch where Mentors and students prepare and share a meal together. This dedicated time provides an opportunity for the young women and staff to sit together, yarn, and strengthen relationships in a relaxed and supportive environment. It has been wonderful to see the students build meaningful connections, develop new skills, and embrace the opportunities and experiences offered. Student enthusiasm and involvement have made for a positive and successful start, and we look forward to seeing the Program continue to grow.
Swan View Stars Enjoy Wellbeing and Engagement Camp in Busselton, WA
Fourteen Years 10-11 students from Swan View Senior High School in Perth attended a three-day wellbeing and engagement camp in Busselton, which involved stepping outside their comfort zones and experiencing a Stars camp for the very first time.
Throughout the camp, new friendships were formed and lasting memories were created as the students challenged themselves together. They conquered the 20-metre heights of Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, explored the wonders hidden 65 metres below in Lake Cave, raced through the Yallingup Maze and Mini Golf, and ended their days watching the beautiful Busselton sunsets.
We are incredibly proud of these young women for the way they embraced every opportunity with commitment, honesty, respect and pride. They encouraged one another, looked out for each other, and remained unapologetically themselves throughout the journey. Their courage, teamwork and willingness to try new experiences were truly empowering and are a testament to the amazing young leaders they are becoming.
Tamworth Stars Raise Their Voice Against Violence in NSW
Years 9–10 Stars students at Tamworth High School in NSW recently participated in the NRL’s Voice Against Violence program, led by former NRL players, Roy Asotasi and Frank Winterstein. The program uses the power of rugby league to educate and empower young people to build respectful relationships, challenge harmful behaviours, and become positive role models in their communities.
Drawing on their experiences both on and off the field, Roy and Frank shared powerful personal stories that sparked meaningful conversations about respect, communication, leadership, and making positive choices.
Through interactive activities, students explored the importance of teamwork, trust, equality, and healthy relationships in an engaging and relatable way. The session encouraged students to reflect on their own values and recognise the positive role they can play in creating safer, stronger communities.
Warrnambool Stars Building Strength Inside and Out in VIC
Years 7-8 Stars students from Brauer College in Warrnambool, VIC, recently took part in a tailored boxing and fitness program led by Al from Folima’s Fitness and Boxing as part of their morning training sessions.
More than just exercise, the sessions provided a safe and supportive space where students can build confidence, strengthen resilience and learn healthy ways to manage emotions and everyday challenges.
Through a combination of movement, fitness and open conversation, Al encouraged positive coping strategies, emotional regulation and self-control, while highlighting the benefits of physical activity for social and emotional wellbeing.
Boxing training has had a lasting impact on the group, with students speaking highly of the experience long after returning to school. The energy, encouragement and life skills shared throughout the sessions have created a strong connection, and students are already looking forward to the next visit.
These stories reflect the energy, care and impact of Term 2, and the Stars team is excited to see what Semester 2 will bring.