Celebrating the class of 2025
As Year 12 students across our region finish their exams and step into the next chapter of their lives, I want to recognise what an extraordinary milestone this is for every young person, every family and every school community celebrating a graduate this year.
No matter which school gate you walked through on that very first day of Foundation, the journey to Year 12 has involved far more than textbooks and timetables.
It has taken early mornings, late nights, determination, steady encouragement and the unwavering support of parents, carers, teachers, volunteers and the broader village that surrounds every one of our schools – from Kilmore to Benalla, Seymour to Euroa and everywhere in between.
Watching many Year 12 classes graduate this month reminds me how quickly these years pass. My own little boy started school this year, and already I can feel how fleeting and precious this chapter is for every family. We only get a short window to guide our children and help them discover who they are becoming.
To the Class of 2025 across the electorate, I want to share three simple thoughts as you take your next steps.
First, there is no one like you. Each of you brings something distinctive to the world, and life opens up when you stop trying to blend in and start leaning confidently into who you truly are.
Second, your gifts are meant to be shared. Our communities thrive when people step forward, take responsibility and focus on what they can give rather than what they can get. Whether you stay local or travel far, you will always have something valuable to contribute.
And finally, do not be afraid to fail. The people who make the greatest impact are those willing to take risks, learn from setbacks and try again. Every challenge you encounter from here will teach you something important.
To the teachers, support staff, coaches and volunteers across our region – thank you for shaping this generation with such care and commitment. To families – thank you for the gentle nudges, the lunch boxes, the late-night pep talks and the resilience you’ve modelled along the way.
And to every Year 12 graduate in the Euroa electorate: congratulations. You have made your community proud. We are all cheering you on and cannot wait to see the paths you carve from here.
Annabelle Cleeland,
Member for Euroa
