
Final school year over for Year 12s
AFTER a testing year of tears, tantrums and triumphs, an emotional group of Year 12 students said goodbye to "the place we've called home for the past five years" at graduation ceremonies last week.
As school captains addressed assemblies for the final time, the emotions flowed thick and fast.
In a common sentiment on the day, Stanthorpe State High School captain Peter Pugno said the year's challenges had moulded the cohort into a tight-knit bunch.
"We've been through the good and the bad, but we've come through it as a group," he said.
"I know we've had some spats along the way, but I'll always regard you as some of my closest friends."
Fellow school captain Adam Bonner agreed there were plenty of memories that would stick with him forever.
"Whether it's getting an A on an assignment, endless banter on bus trips or a casual g'day in the hallway... it's the small things that are important," he said.
"My hope is when we meet later out in the world, we'll have plenty of good stories to tell."
Over at St Joseph's, the bittersweet occasion was equally poignant.
School captains Matthew Manahan and Holly Hitchener thanked everyone who helped the students on their Year 12 journey.
"Without you all - teachers, parents and family alike - we would not be here, as 27 graduations seniors ready to attack the big wide world," Matthew said.
"From the bottom of our hearts, and on the graduating of the class of 2013, we would like to thank you all for everything you have done."
Holly finished on a note for the future.
"We now begin the next chapter of our heavy textbook, although it may include a little more laughing, definitely more cramming and hopefully, at some point, all of you," she said.
