Beacon students take the pledge

By Shannon Colee

Aug 17, 2023

Teaming up: Uncle Rick Ronnan, Beacon Foundation’s project manager Cath Elms, speaker Jason McCurry, Campaspe Shire Mayor Rob Amos, Moama Bowling Club’s George Santos and Beacon Foundation's chair Sue Turner. Photo by Shannon Colee

The Echuca Moama Beacon Foundation teamed up with high school students across the area to take the pledge.

Eyes on future: Luke Hendrick from Twin Rivers Specialist School was keen to take the pledge with his school mates. Photo by Shannon Colee

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The Pathways Pledge Ceremony is a public commitment the students make acknowledging that they are ready to make the most of their futures, and they will have open minds when considering their career pathways.

Commitment: St Joseph’s student Olivia Batchelor was all smiles signing her name. Photo by Shannon Colee

Jason McCurry, who grew up in Rochester, travelled from Melbourne to speak to students about his own journey and the lessons he’s taken away.

Going for it: Isobel Currey, from Echuca College, was among hundreds of students taking the pledge on Wednesday morning. Photo by Shannon Colee

“You get a lot of perspective when you go away from home and you realise a lot of things that you might’ve taken for granted such as programs and organisations like the Beacon Foundation and the powerful role they can play within students’ lives,” he said.

Attentive: Hundreds of students and community members got together to hear about future opportunities. Photo by Shannon Colee

Tradition: Uncle Rick Ronnan performed a Smoking Ceremony on the day. Photo by Shannon Colee

“It's great to come back and be part of it and hopefully my story can empower some young people in their careers.”

Happy to be part of it: Campaspe Mayor Rob Amos signed the pledge as well. Photo by Shannon Colee

Campaspe Mayor Rob Amos said it was an important message to give young teenagers.

Taking lead: Sarah Duffey was the first student from Moama Anglican Grammar to sign the pledge. Photo by Shannon Colee

“They're sort of halfway through their high school education and so it’s a good time to have a conversation with them to say how important it is to finish school,” he said.

Sharing knowledge: Jason McCurry talked to students about his journey from Rochester to Melbourne. Photo by Shannon Colee

“What happens after school doesn't really matter. Whether you go and get a job or do an apprenticeship or go to uni or TAFE or whatever you want, but it’s important going all the way and finishing school.”