2025 Graduates

Jayharnie Strahan graduated Year 12 with the Stars Program at Thuringowa State High School in Townsville, QLD, in 2025. She was also part of the Stars Program at Heatley Secondary College in Townsville during Years 9 and 10. 

From a young age, Stars Mentors observed that Jayharnie displayed the characteristics of a strong role model and leader within her community and was always motivated to make something of herself. Jayharnieproudly overcame some personal obstacles at the beginning of Year 11 and was then determined to finish Year 12. 

“At the start of Year 11 I got into trouble at Heatley and had to swap schools. My mum was going to send me to another school, however I wanted to go to Thuringowa because I knew Stars would be there. Going from one Stars Program to another made the transition to a new school a lot easier and helped me make friends quickly that I now count as my best friends. Once at Thuringowa, I struggled with the school work and it was my biggest challenge. Being able to go to Monica for support was very helpful. 

Jayharnie reflects that Stars Mentor, Monica, had a strong positive influence in Year 12.  

“Monica gave me some hard truths in Year 12. I wasn’t really coming to school or getting my work done. She talked with about why it was important to finish, and having the end of year trip definitely motivated me to graduate,” said Jayharnie. 

“Our End of Year trip to Melbourne was my favourite Stars memory as it was so different being out of school. It was good to get to know my Mentors on a different level and to share so many new experiences.  

Post school journey 

Since finishing high school, Jayharnie successfully spent the first six months completing the GudjudaRanger Program where she earned a Certificate I in Eco System Management.  

This experience helped Jayharnie secure her current role as a Parts Interpreter at Mike Carney Toyota  asthe course involved interview preparation and techniques, while becoming familiar with a full time work week and helping build confidence and reliability. 

“During the ranger program I got to out on Country learning my culture and how to care for country traditionally. My favourite part of the course was all the opportunities we got to do like getting our boat and jet ski license,” said Jayharnie. 

“My current role involves picking parts for the mechanics while they are servicing the vehicles. This helpsme learn all the different parts and what they are for, and then I will be training in preparing quotes andeventually working more closely with customers, 

“I really enjoy working with the people at Toyota as it’s a fun place to come to work. I’m also looking forward to the next part of my training and I’m proud of going out and being independent – like getting this job on my own. 

“I am working towards saving up as I want to be able to afford to do a lap of Australia and travel. I don’t want to live in Townsville forever so would like to travel and find where my next spot would be.” 

Message for current Stars students 

When asked what Jayharnie wishes she could tell herself on the first day of the Stars Program, she said:“Attend all the activities and just make the most of it as Stars is supportive, encouraging and fun.” 

“I wouldn’t have graduated if it wasn’t for Stars. If Monica and Emma didn’t push me, I wouldn’t have graduated and wouldn’t be doing the job I am doing today. They are both just so consistent in their support,” said Jayharnie. 

“The Stars Program matters for First Nations girls because having a safe space to go and having the constant support is invaluable.  

“I would encourage any Stars girl right now to graduate and get that certificate – you will have it for the rest of your life. Hard work pays off and any support you need Stars is there to help.”