“You can’t be what you can’t see,” is a quote attributed to Marian Wright Edelman, a US activist for the rights of children. She believed that young people are less likely to be inspired for their future if they don’t have visible role models.
Spirit of Mercy Award Guidelines
Spirit of Mercy Award
Nominees must have received a substantial portion (4 years minimum) of their secondary education at Catholic Regional College or Mercy Regional College and meet a combination of the following criteria:
Excelled in their career or made a substantial contribution to their chosen field of endeavour;
• Recognised by peers as leaders in their particular field or community and have a sustained record of achievement or service over a substantial number of years.
• Demonstrated that a commitment to social justice and Mercy Regional College values is evident alongside success in a chosen field.
• Contributed to the local, state, national or international community and/or the Mercy Regional College community or its predecessor.
Young Spirit of Mercy Award
Nominees must: have received a substantial portion (4 years minimum) of their secondary education at Mercy Regional College and:
• Be under the age of 30; have demonstrated excellence or received recognition in their chosen field of endeavour or
• Exemplified the best attributes of giving and community spirit and model strong social and Mercy values, which is inspiring to others.
Call for Nominations
Anyone can make a nomination for the Spirit of Mercy Award.
Nominations will be sought by Mercy Regional College from the College and local community via:
• College social media platforms
• Other College publications, such as the newsletter
• Local media
Process
1. Nominations to be called.
2. Nominations must be submitted on the prescribed electronic nomination form (see bottom of page). A receipt of the nomination will be acknowledged in writing.
3. The College Leadership team in conjunction with a selected panel will review nominations against the specified selection criteria.
4. Successful candidates will be contacted by the Principal and advised of preparations for the event.
Removal Clause
Inductees into the ‘Spirit of Mercy’ alumni will remain members of the ‘Spirit of Mercy’ alumni, unless they are removed because of conduct detrimental to the ideals, objectives and values of Mercy Regional College, and the ‘Spirit of Mercy’ alumni.
Spirit of Mercy Award Inductees
- 2023 Inductees
- 2024 Inductees
Mark O’Shea
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // A champion young footballer in Camperdown, Mark completed an apprenticeship as a chef and worked at leading hotels and restaurants in Melbourne. Mark then went onto a very successful hotel management career. Mark, together with his wife Ky, established TKC -Team Kill Cancer - an organisation that provides support to families needing help to cope with cancer. So far TKC has raised over a million dollars. Mark also provides significant support to Vinnies and a variety of local sporting and community groups.
MARK'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “You learn from mistakes. Lead a healthy lifestyle and educate yourself about financial matters. As soon as you are earning, start putting money aside, it adds up.”
Professor Mike Ryan
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Dr Michael Ryan is Pro Vice-Chancellor Research at
Monash University. His research focuses on mitochondrial biology and disease and he heads the Mitochondrial Biology and Disease Laboratory in the Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute. Michael was awarded the Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 2023 Lemberg Medal and he sits on a variety of university committees and external bodies including the Scientific and Medical Advisory Panel for the Australian Mitochondrial Disease Foundation.
MIKE'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “Reach for the stars and don’t hold back. Back yourself and don’t question whether you are good enough just because you are from a small school in a small town.”
Ella Gleeson
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // While at MRC was a Rural Youth Ambassador and the College Captain (2019). Ella went on to study at Australian Catholic University and in England at St Mary’s University Twickenham. Ella was awarded a Bachelor of Arts (Politics, International Relations and History) and a Bachelor of Global Studies.
At ACU Ella served as Secretary of the International Relations Society. Ella is now an Electorate Officer at Parliament of Victoria for The Hon. Melissa Horne, Member for Williamstown. Ella continues to advocate for rural youth as an Engagement Leader at Youthrive Victoria / The Rural Foundation.
ELLA'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “You’ve got this, there are many paths in the world for you to choose – you just have to start.”
Jocelyn Bignold OAM
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Jocelyn Bignold is the CEO of McAuley Community Services for Women - an organisation that is known for innovation in providing support for women and their children who are experiencing family violence, and women who are homeless. Jocelyn has over 25 years’ experience in community services, policy development, management, and advocacy.
Jocelyn was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in recognition of her service to the community through social welfare organisations and her leadership and commitment to making lives better for women and children who have faced family violence and homelessness. Jocelyn has also been inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll for community services.
JOCELYN'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “I know we won’t be done with our dreams until homelessness and family violence are eradicated from our community.”
Rose Henry
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Rose Henry exemplifies community spirit and is inspirational in her commitment and leadership in serving her local communities.
Rose volunteers for many organisations within the Camperdown community, including Mercy Regional College, and Rose, along with the committees she has served on, has won state awards for exceptional contributions to community.
ROSE'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “Be part of your community. Put your hand up and put your name down. When you see a need, challenge yourself to contribute the best way you are able.”
Joshua Hose OAM
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Joshua Anthony “Josh” Hose, OAM is a wheelchair rugby player who has won gold medals at the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Paralympics and competed at the 2020 Summer Paralympics. Josh models resilience. A car accident in 2005 left him with serious spinal cord damage, swelling on the brain and two collapsed lungs. Josh is a motivational speaker with a nation-wide audience and he also visits local schools and community groups to tell his story and motivate others around the country. Josh has also volunteered his time at the Alfred Hospital trauma ward helping give the patients hope for something more.
JOSH'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “We may not always be able to choose our circumstances, but we do have a choice about how we face them”
Greg O'Shea
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // After completing an apprenticeship with Australian Airlines and going on to work at some of London’s best hotels and restaurants, Greg went on to teach at Homesglen TAFE and was appointed Manager of the Moorabbin Campus. Greg later undertook a Masters Degree in Business Management and was appointed to head the introduction of the world famous Le Cordon Bleu method of catering into Australia. Greg has given exceptional service to the community, especially through his Presidency of a Rotary branch where he initiated and led a project to provide a safe house in Frankston for victims of domestic violence.
GREG'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “Identify your values, identify your goals and take some calculated risks in order to achieve them.”
Mark O’Shea
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // A champion young footballer in Camperdown, Mark completed an apprenticeship as a chef and worked at leading hotels and restaurants in Melbourne. Mark then went onto a very successful hotel management career. Mark, together with his wife Ky, established TKC -Team Kill Cancer - an organisation that provides support to families needing help to cope with cancer. So far TKC has raised over a million dollars. Mark also provides significant support to Vinnies and a variety of local sporting and community groups.
MARK'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “You learn from mistakes. Lead a healthy lifestyle and educate yourself about financial matters. As soon as you are earning, start putting money aside, it adds up.”
Professor Mike Ryan
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Dr Michael Ryan is Pro Vice-Chancellor Research at
Monash University. His research focuses on mitochondrial biology and disease and he heads the Mitochondrial Biology and Disease Laboratory in the Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute. Michael was awarded the Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 2023 Lemberg Medal and he sits on a variety of university committees and external bodies including the Scientific and Medical Advisory Panel for the Australian Mitochondrial Disease Foundation.
MIKE'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “Reach for the stars and don’t hold back. Back yourself and don’t question whether you are good enough just because you are from a small school in a small town.”
Ella Gleeson
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // While at MRC was a Rural Youth Ambassador and the College Captain (2019). Ella went on to study at Australian Catholic University and in England at St Mary’s University Twickenham. Ella was awarded a Bachelor of Arts (Politics, International Relations and History) and a Bachelor of Global Studies.
At ACU Ella served as Secretary of the International Relations Society. Ella is now an Electorate Officer at Parliament of Victoria for The Hon. Melissa Horne, Member for Williamstown. Ella continues to advocate for rural youth as an Engagement Leader at Youthrive Victoria / The Rural Foundation.
ELLA'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “You’ve got this, there are many paths in the world for you to choose – you just have to start.”
Jocelyn Bignold OAM
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Jocelyn Bignold is the CEO of McAuley Community Services for Women - an organisation that is known for innovation in providing support for women and their children who are experiencing family violence, and women who are homeless. Jocelyn has over 25 years’ experience in community services, policy development, management, and advocacy.
Jocelyn was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in recognition of her service to the community through social welfare organisations and her leadership and commitment to making lives better for women and children who have faced family violence and homelessness. Jocelyn has also been inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll for community services.
JOCELYN'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “I know we won’t be done with our dreams until homelessness and family violence are eradicated from our community.”
Rose Henry
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Rose Henry exemplifies community spirit and is inspirational in her commitment and leadership in serving her local communities.
Rose volunteers for many organisations within the Camperdown community, including Mercy Regional College, and Rose, along with the committees she has served on, has won state awards for exceptional contributions to community.
ROSE'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “Be part of your community. Put your hand up and put your name down. When you see a need, challenge yourself to contribute the best way you are able.”
Joshua Hose OAM
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Joshua Anthony “Josh” Hose, OAM is a wheelchair rugby player who has won gold medals at the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Paralympics and competed at the 2020 Summer Paralympics. Josh models resilience. A car accident in 2005 left him with serious spinal cord damage, swelling on the brain and two collapsed lungs. Josh is a motivational speaker with a nation-wide audience and he also visits local schools and community groups to tell his story and motivate others around the country. Josh has also volunteered his time at the Alfred Hospital trauma ward helping give the patients hope for something more.
JOSH'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “We may not always be able to choose our circumstances, but we do have a choice about how we face them”
Greg O'Shea
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // After completing an apprenticeship with Australian Airlines and going on to work at some of London’s best hotels and restaurants, Greg went on to teach at Homesglen TAFE and was appointed Manager of the Moorabbin Campus. Greg later undertook a Masters Degree in Business Management and was appointed to head the introduction of the world famous Le Cordon Bleu method of catering into Australia. Greg has given exceptional service to the community, especially through his Presidency of a Rotary branch where he initiated and led a project to provide a safe house in Frankston for victims of domestic violence.
GREG'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “Identify your values, identify your goals and take some calculated risks in order to achieve them.”
Mark O’Shea
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // A champion young footballer in Camperdown, Mark completed an apprenticeship as a chef and worked at leading hotels and restaurants in Melbourne. Mark then went onto a very successful hotel management career. Mark, together with his wife Ky, established TKC -Team Kill Cancer - an organisation that provides support to families needing help to cope with cancer. So far TKC has raised over a million dollars. Mark also provides significant support to Vinnies and a variety of local sporting and community groups.
MARK'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “You learn from mistakes. Lead a healthy lifestyle and educate yourself about financial matters. As soon as you are earning, start putting money aside, it adds up.”
Professor Mike Ryan
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Dr Michael Ryan is Pro Vice-Chancellor Research at
Monash University. His research focuses on mitochondrial biology and disease and he heads the Mitochondrial Biology and Disease Laboratory in the Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute. Michael was awarded the Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 2023 Lemberg Medal and he sits on a variety of university committees and external bodies including the Scientific and Medical Advisory Panel for the Australian Mitochondrial Disease Foundation.
MIKE'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “Reach for the stars and don’t hold back. Back yourself and don’t question whether you are good enough just because you are from a small school in a small town.”
Ella Gleeson
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // While at MRC was a Rural Youth Ambassador and the College Captain (2019). Ella went on to study at Australian Catholic University and in England at St Mary’s University Twickenham. Ella was awarded a Bachelor of Arts (Politics, International Relations and History) and a Bachelor of Global Studies.
At ACU Ella served as Secretary of the International Relations Society. Ella is now an Electorate Officer at Parliament of Victoria for The Hon. Melissa Horne, Member for Williamstown. Ella continues to advocate for rural youth as an Engagement Leader at Youthrive Victoria / The Rural Foundation.
ELLA'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // “You’ve got this, there are many paths in the world for you to choose – you just have to start.”
Jake Rowbottom
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // A lightbulb moment for Jake Rowbottom resulted in Jake setting himself the greatest personal challenge of his life so far – a challenge that would also become an outstanding solo fundraising effort. The young Noosa-based teacher set himself the task of cycling solo down the long coastal route from Noosa to Camperdown with no support crew, asking himself. “What if this could inspire others to take up cycling?” and “What if I could also raise funds for a good cause.” Jake overcame the many logistical and physical challenges and, at the end of his epic 2,700 plus kilometre journey, he had exceeded his fundraising target of $20,000 by $6000. The funds supported two causes, the Breast Cancer Foundation and the Prostate Cancer Foundation – two of the most common cancers affecting the daily lives of many thousands of individuals and families in Australia. JAKE'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // Life is full of adventures. Set yourself a crazy idea and just go for it. Your school, your family and the wider community will always be there to support you.
Sophie Rowan
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // At the heart of Sophie’s work is people. Sophie puts the quality of human life at the centre of everything she does. At school, Sophie was in the Social Justice Team and her experience on a trip to Cambodia proved to be life-changing, allowing her to see that she could help to alleviate poverty. Completing an Applied Bachelor of Public Health/Bachelor of Global Studies, Sophie was awarded the ACU Executive Dean’s Commendation 2019. A New Colombo Plan Scholarship awarded through Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs, allowed Sophie to study and work in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Sophie went on to work for the United Nations as a Health Consultant at the UN Multi-Country Resident Coordinator’s Office in Micronesia. Sophie is a true champion of the underdog, constantly thinking of those who are often forgotten, and how, as a global citizen, she can work to improve their lives.
Toby McKenzie
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // When asked to help out with any events in the community, Toby’s default answer is, “Yes!” Toby is the President of Camperdown Theatre Company (CTC), participated in the Regional Arts Victoria Creative Leaders Program, and was awarded 2016 Young Citizen of the Year for his contribution to the community at the Corangamite Australia Day Awards. He has performed at many local events including Anzac Day ceremonies and has assisted with MRC productions. A rising Director, Toby has directed six shows so far with CTC and Holiday Actors, and has been on the team for many more, some of which have won Music Theatre Guild of Victoria Awards for Excellence, including the 75th Anniversary Spectacular which won Best Concert/Revue in 2023 and Corangamite Community Event of the Year. Toby leads the Camperdown’s Carols by Candlelight as Artistic Director and Choirmaster, with the event generating much needed donations and funds for the Camperdown and District Foodbank. TOBY'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // There will be many opportunities to positively impact those around you. Take these opportunities with confidence and be grateful for them. Using your skills and talents to benefit others can be very rewarding.
Ken Hinkley
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Ken Hinkley has been able to live out his AFL dream. By 17, Ken, who had been the leading goalkicker for Camperdown, began his football career at Fitzroy. A clearance to Geelong soon followed, and he won the 1992 Greeves Medal and finished third in the Brownlow Medal. He retired after the 1995 Grand Final loss having played 121 games for the Cats. With his ability to read the game, the progression into coaching was natural. Beginning at Mortlake, Ken soon returned to his beloved Camperdown, leading the team in back-to-back premierships. The AFL called and Ken had several assistant coaching stints before taking on the coaching role at Port Adelaide. The struggling team then rose to an elimination final win.
Ken was voted Coach of the Year in 2013 and 2020 alongside AFL life membership, having notched up his 300th game.
He is currently one of the longest serving AFL Coaches.
Sarah Wall
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Sarah Wall is an elite level athlete whose commitment and love of Netball propelled her into a twelve-year professional sports career playing for the: Melbourne Phoenix, Vixens, Firebirds and Swifts. Preparing for life beyond her playing years, Sarah, a qualified educator, developed a fitness program that evolved into a digital platform with reach into sixty-four countries and she continues to innovate in this field. Sarah views her work through a holistic lens that emphasises the links between sport, health, fitness and wellbeing. Sarah has always understood the power of community and she has contributed around Australia, supporting Bushfire Relief and creating free events for those affected by the floods in Northern Rivers District of NSW. From her beginnings as a country kid who loved Netball, Sarah Wall has developed into an elite level player, educator, community-builder, innovator and entrepreneur but her heart has never been far from the place she grew up in. SARAH'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // Learn what your strengths are! It’s OK if your strengths are not mainstream, or not academic. Develop those strengths, tie this to your passion and work hard. If you really want to achieve anything you really have to work hard and take the knocks. You bounce back a lot stronger.”
Daniel Meade
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Ensuring that farmers receive a seat at the table and that their voices are heard forms a large part of what drives Daniel Meade. After a gap year, Daniel studied a double diploma in Agriculture and Agronomy at Glenormiston. While studying, Daniel also worked as an agronomist. He joined the Ecklin dairy discussion group and a term on the WestVic Dairy Board followed. In 2016, Daniel became a Nuffield scholar and a Moyne Councillor. Daniel has served two terms as Moyne’s youngest Mayor. In 2021 he brought his wealth of experience as one of the new directors of the DemoDAIRY Foundation Board and he also chaired the Victorian Farmers Federation’s Farm Business Advisory committee, worked with the AFL Western District Commission and, when time permits, volunteered with the Garvoc CFA and the bandari School - a primary school for underprivileged children in Tanzania. DANIEL'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // Be respectful and have gratitude for the education you are receiving - it can take you places.
Ben Blain
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Serving the community was always going to be part of Ben Blain’s future. Ben began working for a Wool company at age 14 and he credits hard work as the reason for his success. When an ambition to study law was thwarted, Ben chose a different pathway. He completed tertiary studies and by age 23, had become a partner in a successful wool trading business. He has volunteered for the CFA and since 2017, Ben has also been a member of the Warrnambool Ratepayers Association. For almost seven years Ben attended all open Council Meetings, holding councillors to account and championing the small business owner-operator. Ben was one of seven new councillors elected to Warrnambool City Council in 2020 and when he was elected Mayor, aged 34, Ben was the youngest mayor in the Council’s history. BEN'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // It’s one thing to be talented but working hard is what will move you forward. The harder you work, the more the opportunities that will present themselves. Don't let anyone else take away from you what you want to achieve.
Peter Morgan
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Growing up on a farm near Simpson, Peter Morgan developed an appreciation for the land and an understanding of the responsibility we have to care for it and ensure that it is handed to the next generation in good shape. He also knew early on that he imagined for himself a future which included travel and working in education. Peter has had a stellar, international career in education that has seen him establish a new school in Singapore from scratch, starting with zero students and building the enrolments to 700 in just over a year. After holding senior leadership positions in leading Geelong schools Peter was appointed Principal of Emmanuel College Warrnambool. He has overseen a major program of renewal, building and reimagining. Peter’s community spirit has seen him play a leading role in a major capital appeal for his church community and he has served the education community as an Executive Member and Chairman of multiple boards.
PETER'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // Value your education and recognise that what MRC offers you is an extraordinary opportunity to find your place in the world and succeed.
Jake Rowbottom
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // A lightbulb moment for Jake Rowbottom resulted in Jake setting himself the greatest personal challenge of his life so far – a challenge that would also become an outstanding solo fundraising effort. The young Noosa-based teacher set himself the task of cycling solo down the long coastal route from Noosa to Camperdown with no support crew, asking himself. “What if this could inspire others to take up cycling?” and “What if I could also raise funds for a good cause.” Jake overcame the many logistical and physical challenges and, at the end of his epic 2,700 plus kilometre journey, he had exceeded his fundraising target of $20,000 by $6000. The funds supported two causes, the Breast Cancer Foundation and the Prostate Cancer Foundation – two of the most common cancers affecting the daily lives of many thousands of individuals and families in Australia. JAKE'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // Life is full of adventures. Set yourself a crazy idea and just go for it. Your school, your family and the wider community will always be there to support you.
Sophie Rowan
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // At the heart of Sophie’s work is people. Sophie puts the quality of human life at the centre of everything she does. At school, Sophie was in the Social Justice Team and her experience on a trip to Cambodia proved to be life-changing, allowing her to see that she could help to alleviate poverty. Completing an Applied Bachelor of Public Health/Bachelor of Global Studies, Sophie was awarded the ACU Executive Dean’s Commendation 2019. A New Colombo Plan Scholarship awarded through Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs, allowed Sophie to study and work in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Sophie went on to work for the United Nations as a Health Consultant at the UN Multi-Country Resident Coordinator’s Office in Micronesia. Sophie is a true champion of the underdog, constantly thinking of those who are often forgotten, and how, as a global citizen, she can work to improve their lives.
Toby McKenzie
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // When asked to help out with any events in the community, Toby’s default answer is, “Yes!” Toby is the President of Camperdown Theatre Company (CTC), participated in the Regional Arts Victoria Creative Leaders Program, and was awarded 2016 Young Citizen of the Year for his contribution to the community at the Corangamite Australia Day Awards. He has performed at many local events including Anzac Day ceremonies and has assisted with MRC productions. A rising Director, Toby has directed six shows so far with CTC and Holiday Actors, and has been on the team for many more, some of which have won Music Theatre Guild of Victoria Awards for Excellence, including the 75th Anniversary Spectacular which won Best Concert/Revue in 2023 and Corangamite Community Event of the Year. Toby leads the Camperdown’s Carols by Candlelight as Artistic Director and Choirmaster, with the event generating much needed donations and funds for the Camperdown and District Foodbank. TOBY'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // There will be many opportunities to positively impact those around you. Take these opportunities with confidence and be grateful for them. Using your skills and talents to benefit others can be very rewarding.
Ken Hinkley
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Ken Hinkley has been able to live out his AFL dream. By 17, Ken, who had been the leading goalkicker for Camperdown, began his football career at Fitzroy. A clearance to Geelong soon followed, and he won the 1992 Greeves Medal and finished third in the Brownlow Medal. He retired after the 1995 Grand Final loss having played 121 games for the Cats. With his ability to read the game, the progression into coaching was natural. Beginning at Mortlake, Ken soon returned to his beloved Camperdown, leading the team in back-to-back premierships. The AFL called and Ken had several assistant coaching stints before taking on the coaching role at Port Adelaide. The struggling team then rose to an elimination final win.
Ken was voted Coach of the Year in 2013 and 2020 alongside AFL life membership, having notched up his 300th game.
He is currently one of the longest serving AFL Coaches.
Sarah Wall
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Sarah Wall is an elite level athlete whose commitment and love of Netball propelled her into a twelve-year professional sports career playing for the: Melbourne Phoenix, Vixens, Firebirds and Swifts. Preparing for life beyond her playing years, Sarah, a qualified educator, developed a fitness program that evolved into a digital platform with reach into sixty-four countries and she continues to innovate in this field. Sarah views her work through a holistic lens that emphasises the links between sport, health, fitness and wellbeing. Sarah has always understood the power of community and she has contributed around Australia, supporting Bushfire Relief and creating free events for those affected by the floods in Northern Rivers District of NSW. From her beginnings as a country kid who loved Netball, Sarah Wall has developed into an elite level player, educator, community-builder, innovator and entrepreneur but her heart has never been far from the place she grew up in. SARAH'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // Learn what your strengths are! It’s OK if your strengths are not mainstream, or not academic. Develop those strengths, tie this to your passion and work hard. If you really want to achieve anything you really have to work hard and take the knocks. You bounce back a lot stronger.”
Daniel Meade
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Ensuring that farmers receive a seat at the table and that their voices are heard forms a large part of what drives Daniel Meade. After a gap year, Daniel studied a double diploma in Agriculture and Agronomy at Glenormiston. While studying, Daniel also worked as an agronomist. He joined the Ecklin dairy discussion group and a term on the WestVic Dairy Board followed. In 2016, Daniel became a Nuffield scholar and a Moyne Councillor. Daniel has served two terms as Moyne’s youngest Mayor. In 2021 he brought his wealth of experience as one of the new directors of the DemoDAIRY Foundation Board and he also chaired the Victorian Farmers Federation’s Farm Business Advisory committee, worked with the AFL Western District Commission and, when time permits, volunteered with the Garvoc CFA and the bandari School - a primary school for underprivileged children in Tanzania. DANIEL'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // Be respectful and have gratitude for the education you are receiving - it can take you places.
Ben Blain
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Serving the community was always going to be part of Ben Blain’s future. Ben began working for a Wool company at age 14 and he credits hard work as the reason for his success. When an ambition to study law was thwarted, Ben chose a different pathway. He completed tertiary studies and by age 23, had become a partner in a successful wool trading business. He has volunteered for the CFA and since 2017, Ben has also been a member of the Warrnambool Ratepayers Association. For almost seven years Ben attended all open Council Meetings, holding councillors to account and championing the small business owner-operator. Ben was one of seven new councillors elected to Warrnambool City Council in 2020 and when he was elected Mayor, aged 34, Ben was the youngest mayor in the Council’s history. BEN'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // It’s one thing to be talented but working hard is what will move you forward. The harder you work, the more the opportunities that will present themselves. Don't let anyone else take away from you what you want to achieve.
Peter Morgan
SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // Growing up on a farm near Simpson, Peter Morgan developed an appreciation for the land and an understanding of the responsibility we have to care for it and ensure that it is handed to the next generation in good shape. He also knew early on that he imagined for himself a future which included travel and working in education. Peter has had a stellar, international career in education that has seen him establish a new school in Singapore from scratch, starting with zero students and building the enrolments to 700 in just over a year. After holding senior leadership positions in leading Geelong schools Peter was appointed Principal of Emmanuel College Warrnambool. He has overseen a major program of renewal, building and reimagining. Peter’s community spirit has seen him play a leading role in a major capital appeal for his church community and he has served the education community as an Executive Member and Chairman of multiple boards.
PETER'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // Value your education and recognise that what MRC offers you is an extraordinary opportunity to find your place in the world and succeed.
Jake Rowbottom
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // A lightbulb moment for Jake Rowbottom resulted in Jake setting himself the greatest personal challenge of his life so far – a challenge that would also become an outstanding solo fundraising effort. The young Noosa-based teacher set himself the task of cycling solo down the long coastal route from Noosa to Camperdown with no support crew, asking himself. “What if this could inspire others to take up cycling?” and “What if I could also raise funds for a good cause.” Jake overcame the many logistical and physical challenges and, at the end of his epic 2,700 plus kilometre journey, he had exceeded his fundraising target of $20,000 by $6000. The funds supported two causes, the Breast Cancer Foundation and the Prostate Cancer Foundation – two of the most common cancers affecting the daily lives of many thousands of individuals and families in Australia. JAKE'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // Life is full of adventures. Set yourself a crazy idea and just go for it. Your school, your family and the wider community will always be there to support you.
Sophie Rowan
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // At the heart of Sophie’s work is people. Sophie puts the quality of human life at the centre of everything she does. At school, Sophie was in the Social Justice Team and her experience on a trip to Cambodia proved to be life-changing, allowing her to see that she could help to alleviate poverty. Completing an Applied Bachelor of Public Health/Bachelor of Global Studies, Sophie was awarded the ACU Executive Dean’s Commendation 2019. A New Colombo Plan Scholarship awarded through Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs, allowed Sophie to study and work in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Sophie went on to work for the United Nations as a Health Consultant at the UN Multi-Country Resident Coordinator’s Office in Micronesia. Sophie is a true champion of the underdog, constantly thinking of those who are often forgotten, and how, as a global citizen, she can work to improve their lives.
Toby McKenzie
YOUNG SPIRIT OF MERCY AWARD // When asked to help out with any events in the community, Toby’s default answer is, “Yes!” Toby is the President of Camperdown Theatre Company (CTC), participated in the Regional Arts Victoria Creative Leaders Program, and was awarded 2016 Young Citizen of the Year for his contribution to the community at the Corangamite Australia Day Awards. He has performed at many local events including Anzac Day ceremonies and has assisted with MRC productions. A rising Director, Toby has directed six shows so far with CTC and Holiday Actors, and has been on the team for many more, some of which have won Music Theatre Guild of Victoria Awards for Excellence, including the 75th Anniversary Spectacular which won Best Concert/Revue in 2023 and Corangamite Community Event of the Year. Toby leads the Camperdown’s Carols by Candlelight as Artistic Director and Choirmaster, with the event generating much needed donations and funds for the Camperdown and District Foodbank. TOBY'S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS // There will be many opportunities to positively impact those around you. Take these opportunities with confidence and be grateful for them. Using your skills and talents to benefit others can be very rewarding.
