Journey to Leadership
February 28, 2025
For our Head Girl Gracie Mack her journey at Fairholme began like many others—nervous but excited.
Despite having two older sisters who had walked the same path before her, the first day still came with its challenges.
‘I remember two of my classmates and I spending far too long trying to find out where the classroom DC1 was,’ Gracie recalls with a laugh. ‘We walked around the school for half the lesson because we were too scared to ask for help. Spoiler alert: it’s the Drama Centre opposite the Library!’
That first day was a whirlwind of new faces and experiences, including meeting her teachers.
One encounter particularly stood out. ‘I realised I had Mrs Wallis for Humanities, which was a bit awkward because I had unknowingly told her during the Boarding tours in Moonie that history was by far my least favourite subject. Lucky she didn’t hold it against me though!’
Some of Gracie’s most treasured memories come from the traditions that make boarding life at Fairholme so special. The first weekend of the year is always a closed weekend, filled with activities designed to help boarders settle in and form new friendships. One of the standout events for Gracie was the watermelon-eating competition, where she and her friend Anna Street would eagerly devour slice after slice in a spirited attempt to win—often ending up with sticky faces in the process.
‘Holme Day in the Boarding House was another highlight, with an early morning and a lip-sync competition to determine who got to go to breakfast first.’ And of course, Christmas Dinner was a special tradition: ‘The kitchen staff cook up a feast, and the night is filled with karaoke and each year performing a funny Christmas-themed dance.’
Given her deep connection to Fairholme, it’s no surprise that Gracie was inspired to take on the role of Head Girl.
She had always loved being involved in school events and saw this role as an extension of that passion. Seeing past Head Girls on stage in Assembly had always been a highlight, and she admired those who had come before her.
As the opportunity approached, she realised that the role would not only allow her to give back to the school but also offer invaluable personal growth: ‘Having mentorship and growing as a leader is an irreplaceable experience. And as I continued to appreciate Fairholme for how amazing it is, being chosen to represent that felt like an incredible privilege.’
When considering the legacy she hopes to leave behind, Gracie’s focus is on kindness and encouragement: ‘I want to promote bucket-filling, not just for future leaders but for the whole school. I want to leave behind a legacy of getting involved and being a cheerleader for everyone.’
Managing the demands of Year 12 alongside her responsibilities as Head Girl requires a strategic approach to time management. Gracie believes that preparation is crucial, noting that staying ahead of deadlines before exam blocks or major events always proves beneficial.
However, she acknowledges that balancing commitments isn’t always easy. ‘Understanding your own limits is key,’ she explains. ‘Knowing how busy you are helps you recognise when to step back and when you have the capacity to assist others.’
Above all, she prioritizes rest. ‘Sleep is non-negotiable for me. It’s made a huge difference over the past few years, and I plan to keep it that way.’ She is also grateful for the strong support network around her, knowing they will always encourage her to take care of herself.
And as a final fun fact about our Head Girl? ‘Over the years, I have taught myself how to raise one eyebrow and move my ears,’ she shares. ‘But I still cannot, for the life of me, whistle!’
More News…
The MacLaren tartan has long been woven into the fabric of the Hall family, its threads connecting generations through time. For 101 year old Nessie Hall - Fairholme College’s oldest living Old Girl - the legacy began in 1938 when she started Fairholme as a Year 9 Boarder.
Amanda Barwick’s path to becoming a leading voice in the rural industry is rooted in her formative years at Fairholme College, where she first experienced the power of connection.
As a Boarder from Inverell, the Boarding House not only became her home, but her community, which she says was instrumental in shaping her perspective on life. ‘The sense of belonging and support within the Boarding House was something I never took for granted,’ she reflects.
Fairholme College’s Class of 2014 reunion brought Belle Ronnfeldt (nee Thelander) a wave of nostalgia, as she reunited with old friends and celebrated cherished memories. ‘It was a wonderful reminder of my incredible time and the amazing friendships I built at Fairholme,’ Belle shared.
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