At Kirra Services, supporting First Nations students can look like many different things.
Sometimes it is donating laptops so students have access to the tools they need. Sometimes it is sporting equipment, AV equipment, or interactive screens that help create better learning spaces. Sometimes it is opening doors to employment pathways, training, mentoring, or simply giving young people the chance to see what is possible.
But the truth is, this kind of support is not always simple to measure. It can be difficult to quantify the impact, produce the statistics, or put neat numbers around the outcomes. Because sometimes the support is more heart than head. It is culture and care, not data and analytics. It is not done for quotas or compliance.
It is who we are. It is how we feel. It is quiet work, often done without announcement, but it is powerful — and we are proud of it. Recently, Kirra had the privilege of hosting 30 boys from the Clontarf Riverina schools for dinner and conversations about sport, careers and leadership.
We spoke about opportunities, making mistakes, backing yourself, and being brave enough to step back and change course when something is not right for you. We talked about leaning on people for support, and just as importantly, being that support for others.
We talked about “Super Chickens”, putting your socks on right, and the small lessons that stay with you long after the night is over.
A very special thank you to Kendelle Treloar and the All Teams Culture team for the time, care and energy you brought to the evening. Kendelle’s presentation was excellent, and the way she connected with the boys and created space for honest, meaningful conversation was incredibly powerful.
We are also very grateful to Peita-Claire Fothergill, Michael Howard, Terance Bligh, Tahi Takiari, Jackson Canell and Matt Gaff for giving their time and sharing their stories so generously.
The boys heard from people with such different experiences — sport, education, counselling, wellbeing, the Army, technology, construction and project management. From a former Matilda, a former Raiders player, a retired Army veteran, wellbeing and career pathway leaders, and young professionals building their own careers — every person brought something valuable.
Your honesty, insight and willingness to show up made a real impact, and we are incredibly thankful.
These are the moments that remind us why this work matters.
