A group of eight students from Carinity Education Shalom have created history by becoming the Townsville school's first Year 12 cohort.
The emotional graduation ceremony was the latest achievement for the thriving learning community that was on the brink of closure only seven years ago.
The occasion was celebrated with a special all-school event at Northreach Baptist Church in Kirwan, attended by students, family members, and staff. Each graduate was escorted by a Prep student and proudly wore a graduation gown and a stole that was designed by talented Year 10 student Mescha.
Students were presented with a college portfolio, an Indigenous Christian Bible, and a photo book full of memories. The event featured creative performances, including a powerful Haka by New Zealand First Nations students, followed by a dance celebrating Australian First Nations traditions.
The ceremony concluded with an emotional whole-of-school school guard of honour as the graduates made their way out of the church, marking the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of another.
The celebration highlighted the transformation of Carinity Education Shalom, which began its journey in 2018 when Carinity stepped in to rescue the school from closure.
Reopened as a Prep to Year 7 school in 2019 with just 70 students, the school has steadily grown, adding a new secondary grade each year and tripling its initial enrolment numbers.
The school's remarkable growth is a testament to the strength of the Shalom staff, who have come together to create a supportive and culturally safe environment.
Four of the eight graduating students had attended the school since Prep.
"I have had the privilege of being with these students since their first days at school, many of them starting in Prep," said Director of School Campus, Sharyn Ive.
"Watching them grow has been an overwhelming blessing. I hope they leave knowing their unique gifts, kindness, courage, and resilience are exactly what the world needs."
The graduates' journey has been one of persistence and transformation, according to Head of Secondary, Stuart Todd.
"These young people have grown into leaders and role models. Their achievements go far beyond academics - they are resilient, compassionate, and committed to making a difference," he said.
For the graduates, Shalom was more than a school - it was a place where they felt understood, supported, and valued.
The graduates shared their reflections on their time at Shalom, highlighting how the school provided a supportive and understanding environment.
"Shalom let me take breaks when I needed to. They didn't push me when I was tired, and that's helped me succeed in my own way," Kailyn shared.
Brendon, who has been at Shalom since Prep, recalled his early fears.
"When I first started, I was afraid of not making any friends. But within a week, I found my place here. I now dream of traveling the world and supporting my family," he said.
For Jerry, the school became a second home.
"They care for your health, well-being, and you as a person," he shared. "Even when I get frustrated, they're always there, trying to help and make things better, which makes me appreciate them. My career goal now that I've graduated is to become an electrician."
Lyndon, another long-time student, shared his love for history and his future aspirations. "I like learning about the 'old stuff' in history," he said. Lyndon is known at Shalom for his positive spirit, with Stuart describing him as "the heart of the school."
Kyrarn, a more recent addition to Shalom, spoke about the sense of belonging he found, saying Shalom "feels like home".
Stuart described Kyrarn as "a rare gem," praising his kindness. Kyrarn looks forward to spending time with family and finding a career where he can give back to his community.
The graduation ceremony was a time of excitement and emotion, celebrating not only academic achievements but also the personal growth and strong sense of community that define Shalom.
As the eight graduates move forward, they carry the lessons and values instilled at Carinity Education Shalom. According to Sharyn, the graduating students' journey reflects God's faithfulness.
"I trust He has great plans for each of them as they step into the next chapter of their lives," she concluded.
