Brighter Futures, November 2025

Stories from our community

A family who has never given up

Sixteen-year-old Zach and his twelve-year-old sister, Paige, have been part of our community since 2020. Earlier this year their single father, John, needed emergency surgery that led to the amputation of his leg and months in hospital.

Zach coordinated with our Student Assistance Team, took forms to hospital for his dad to sign and emailed us updates. He and Paige packed their lunches, ironed their uniforms and travelled over an hour each day to visit their dad, while never missing school. Zach received a special school award and Paige performed guitar at a school event. John is now home and recovering.

I'm just full of emotions at the moment, because I'm so proud of them, and I'm just so blessed that you guys are in our lives.John

Student art competition

What brightens your world?

We invited students to show the people, places, colours and memories that make them feel happy and inspired. Natalie (Year 2) drew her hand holding the world and her grandparents' house. Tasheen (Year 11) painted an ivy-covered house surrounded by flowers, about self acceptance and finding peace.

Jasmine and Katie (Year 7), Rini (Year 4), Tanya and Mahnoor (Year 10), Alice (Year 11) and Matilda (Year 6) also entered, with paintings, a collage and a rhyming poem about a dancing cockatoo.

I add a lantern and the sun which shows that my world is shining bright.Natalie, Year 2

Our symbol of hope

The yellow poppy

Established on Remembrance Day in 1923, our organisation has always shared the poppy's spirit of hope and renewal. Over time the yellow poppy became our emblem, representing brighter days, new beginnings and the belief that every child deserves the chance to grow.

Like the poppy, many of our students grow in difficult conditions. Some live away from home, some care for family, and all face challenges that test their resilience. With the right support, they rise above hardship and reach for the light.