An Olympian’s Toolkit: Visit from Olympian Jemima Montag
On 6 March, our Year 11 students had the incredible opportunity to hear from Australian Olympian and elite race walker Ms Jemima Montag, who visited our school to share her journey, insights, and lessons from competing at the highest level of sport whilst juggling studying medicine.
Jemima’s presentation resonated far beyond athletics, offering powerful messages for all members of our school community – students, staff, and families alike.
Striving for High Performance
Jemima challenged students to think deeply about what drives them. She spoke about the difference between wanting to achieve something and needing to achieve it.
She also explored motivation – whether we are driven by fear or by our values. While fear can push us in the short term, Jemima emphasised that lasting success comes from being anchored in what truly matters to us.
Balancing Commitments
A key theme for our senior students was the reality of managing competing priorities. Jemima spoke candidly about balancing elite sport, study, and life commitments.
Her message – “You can have it all, just not all at once” – encouraged students to think about timing, prioritisation, and the importance of making thoughtful sacrifices. Success, she reminded us, is not about doing everything simultaneously, but about making intentional choices aligned with our goals.
The importance of Staying Active
Jemima also reinforced why staying active is essential for everyone, not just elite athletes. She highlighted three key benefits:
- Belonging – Being part of a team or active community fosters connection and support
- Physical Health – Regular activity builds strength, energy, and overall wellbeing
- Mental Health – Movement plays a critical role in managing stress, improving mood, and enhancing focus
Her message strongly aligned with our school’s commitment to student wellbeing and the development of the whole person.
Celebrating Harmony Week
This week, our school proudly celebrated Harmony Week – a time to recognise and embrace the rich cultural diversity that makes our community stronger.
Harmony Week is grounded in a simple but powerful message: ‘everyone belongs’. Throughout the week, students engaged in activities on both campuses focusing on celebrating culture. These included bracelet making, henna, karaoke and a Bollywood dance.
As a community, we are proud of the diversity within our school and the way our students continue to demonstrate empathy, respect, and openness. Harmony Week is a celebration of who we are and what we value – Everyone belongs.
Mr Paul Graham
Student Support and Resources Manager