It could be said that Mount Carmel College was my second home.  My mother Caroline worked at the College from 2001 until 2021 and my sister, Sarah began in 2008, graduating in 2020; it was only natural that I would follow suit. Officially I began Kindergarten in 2010, however I have heard many a story about my mother teaching whilst pregnant with me, not only was I born on Mount Carmel Day but also could be considered a true lifetime student of Mount Carmel!  This was more than just the place that I went to school, Mount Carmel was where I grew up.

I took many incredible lessons from my time at Mount Carmel, but I am most proud of the friendships I made during my education.  Now living in Europe, having close bonds with my schoolmates is more important than I could ever have imagined, keeping me connected to home despite the many miles in between. I have fond memories of the Kindergarten house, racing laps of the footpath on three-wheeled bikes, looking back this perhaps is where my love of cycling started. Many of my best friendships come from my early years learning, I could not be more grateful to share stories of then and now with these people today.

I have always loved to learn, and still do today. At Mount Carmel I was given every chance to explore my interests and discover my strengths both in and out of the classroom. Academically I was challenged and encouraged to achieve the best of myself. Maths and science were my favourite faculties; however, literature was where I thrived. I was fortunate to have many incredible experiences which I carry with me still. Namely, in Year 5 I had the opportunity to represent Tasmania (and the College) at the National Tournament of Minds on the Gold Coast. Not only did I grow my academic capabilities, but this also taught me essential life skills through travelling with a group interstate and working with other people (pivotal skills required in my current occupation!) It would be remiss not to mention the teaching staff at Mount Carmel. Each teacher committed their time and energy fully to develop their students as both passionate learners and human beings, a truly unique advantage that makes the school such a welcoming community.

Physical Education was by far the most enjoyable part of my Mount Carmel education. The trifecta of field, athletics and swimming carnivals provide me with the best memories of my schooling. If not for the time invested in outdoor activities at all ages, I highly doubt I would be pursuing my chosen career as an athlete. On the playing field I was not only allowed to fully express my personality, but also challenge myself and unleash my competitive streak! The small nature of the school allowed me to compete with students from all age groups, I still smile when remembering the open primary school 1500 metre running race where, as a Year 3 student, I was allowed to contest the year 6 students. Sports taught me that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.

Perhaps the best trait I gained thanks to my Mount Carmel experience was an unwavering resilience. I loved my schooling journey, certainly though there were periods which challenged my character. Such tests, whilst not enjoyable in the moment, have shaped me into the determined and gritty person I am today. In 2023 I represented Australia in the Road cycling world championships in Glasgow. Here the knowledge developed at school was evident in my performance. Despite some misfortune in my first race, I was able to return to take the world championship title in my second event. Given the environment provided at Mount Carmel, where I was allowed to emotionally develop free of pressure or judgement, when placed under a spotlight I could perform. I am beyond proud to stand on the world stage and say I am a product of a Mount Carmel education.

Today I live in Girona, Spain, riding for the US cycling team Lidl-Trek. If I was asked during my 10 years at Mount Carmel where I saw myself this would not have been the answer. However, even though I was not cycling competitively during my schooling, the learning I carry from these years is highly evident in my life. As I begin my journey as a professional athlete I think back to the times where I was required to make first steps at school.  The first days of Kindergarten, the transition from early learning to primary school and my first day of high school come to the forefront of mind. Yes, I made mistakes (and still do), but every mistake is a chance to learn for the next first. Most important of all, thanks to Mount Carmel College, I know to be brave, be honest, be kind and always have faith.