Our Alumni

Community Engagement Advisor

Class of 2018 - Captain

During her time at MGHS, Grace was a strong, passionate voice excelling in public speaking, debating and leading MGHS as School Captain in 2018.

It’s no surprise that she is now working as a Community Engagement Officer for The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, where she has the privilege of connecting with communities, translating the complex technical concepts into clear, accessible information.

“STEM surprised me! I am extremely grateful for choosing this elective. It sparked my interest in future industries and built essential skills like critical thinking and team problem-solving that I now use every day.

Today, I work on STEM projects and I have been a part of the Community Engagement Team working on the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, a major project centred around the new Western Sydney Airport. Projects like this have shown me just how vast the opportunities are in the STEM industry.”

Grace also studied History at MGHS, crediting her two teachers, Miss Bower and Mrs Jardine, for sparking her interest in the subject.

“Their kindness, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to ensure I understood the content were unmatched. They treated us all as the young adults we were becoming, and led by example as strong, intelligent women. I’m incredibly grateful for the impact they had on me.”

Emergency Department Doctor

Class of 2018 - Vice Captain, Dux

During her time at MGHS, Laura was enthusiastic about participating in many activities, never letting an opportunity pass her by. She took part in musicals, Schools Spectacular, athletics, gymnastic competitions, public speaking, debating, and excursions that took her to the snow fields and Europe.

Laura’s confidence and effort showed in her senior years being elected Vice-Captain and finished her studies in 2018 as School Dux.

After graduating, Laura moved to Western Sydney for a 5-year Doctor of Medicine Program where she lived in university campus dorms learning medical theory, then rotating through different hospitals and specialties gaining real-life experience to learn how to “be” a doctor.

In 2026, Laura begins another 7 to 8 years of study for specialist training. During this time, she will gather skills and knowledge needed for her career in looking after patients in Intensive Care Units.

It’s amazing to see her commitment and zest for life hasn’t left since graduating High School.

Level 2 Rail Worker

Class of Year 10 2018

Jordi finished his studies at MGHS in Year 10, 2018, highlighting that making it to the end of Year 12 isn’t for everyone, and that’s ok. School is about finding the right pathways to the future.

Jordi is brave enough to discuss his own anxiety and reflect on how it impacted upon his enjoyment at school. When he looked back on his time at MGHS, he points out that he would not be so disrespectful, realising his teachers were doing their best.

Through this time, Jordi was able to talk with a trusted staff mentor who would remind him to keep his head high, swap life stories, and helped to turn a nervous kid into someone with goals and aspirations. He sincerely thanks every teacher who did not give up on him.

From an early age, Jordi started working at McDonald’s where he learnt discipline, showing up on time, handling pressure, working as part of a team, and taking responsibility. Qualities he admits that he never took seriously previously. His part-time job prepared him for the world beyond school.

Jordi is now very proudly a Level 2 Rail Worker with Aurizon, running coal trains from Ulan to the Hunter lines with aspirations to travel with his partner, acquire a property, and settle down.

Communications Coordinator and Content Creator

Class of 2015 - Prefect

During his time at MGHS Caleb was an active member of the school community, serving as Prefect in his final year and being awarded the Shirley Jeffries Memorial Award for outstanding participation in school activities at graduation, highlighting his valuable contributions to the school community.

Caleb had a great appreciation for his Year Advisors, Mrs Mackinnon and Mrs Hughes, feeling lucky to have them available for support and advice when needed.

After studying at MGHS, Caleb has ventured into many areas to find what he is truly passionate about and committed to.

He enjoyed a gap year following his graduation and secured himself employment in radio but decided that this wasn’t quite right for him.

“Quitting a full-time job in radio to juggle multiple casual roles like support work, customer service, delivery driving, and MC gigs, just to chase a goal was scary, but worth it.”

Caleb’s path eventually led him into commentating for NBL1 Basketball and NSW Rugby League matches with invitations to call for the 2023 and 2024 NBL1 East Grand Finals. He also travelled to Canberra as part of the NBL1 National Finals broadcast team and was chosen to be in the commentary booth for the Women’s Grand Final games.

These experiences and exposure have paved the way for his current role.

“At the end of 2024, I scored a job as Communications Coordinator and Content Creator for Basketball NSW and NBL1 East Media where I now work and live in Sydney.”

Another part of Caleb’s school journey that has had profound influence on him, is a fifteen-year friendship with best mate Jarron that began in Year 7. Since their time at school, they have travelled together, have been housemates, created countless life memories, and Caleb is now a proud God Father of Jarron’s first baby.

“Our friendship has had a huge impact on my values, goals, and who I am today.”

Caleb has been brave in trying different experiences to chase his goals and passions, with no regrets in the decisions that he has made along the way.

“Your late teens and 20’s are the perfect time to try things, make mistakes, and keep moving forward. Sometimes a step back sets you up for two steps forward.”

Sous Chef

Class of 2020

Coming to us from Maitland Public School, Ashleigh settled into High School life effortlessly, naturally gravitating toward the Home Economics department and before long, it was a common sight to see Ashleigh around the school in her Chefs Whites.

There wasn't an event or catering opportunity that she was not a part of, enthusiastically giving time to make sure our school was represented to a high standard.

Her passion for Hospitality was clearly evident in senior years where industry work placement gave Ashleigh real-life experience and motivation to pursue a career in the Hospitality industry after school.

Ashleigh’s effort and dedication earned her the TVET Student of the Year -Youth Express Engaging in Education Award, and the Honorary Prefect Ron Walsh Memorial Award for Hospitality, accomplishments that were well deserved.

During her time at MGHS, Ashleigh’s teachers Mrs Ross, Mrs Mackinnon, and Mr Harris encouraged her to reach her potential and credits them for shaping her to become the chef she is today.

“They supported my passion for Hospitality before my career even began.”

Since graduating from High School, Ashleigh has not stopped, forging a very notable path into the industry. In 2023, she was the winner of the prestigious Brett Graham Scholarship which enabled Ashleigh to travel all the way to London, working with Brett Graham at his 3 Michelin-Star restaurant, The Ledbury.

Ashleigh’s current focus is empowering women in the Hospitality industry, with an ambition to create safe, supportive working spaces for females.

“As the Sous Chef of a female-led team, I focus on fostering an empowering, harassment-free environment.”

Through flexible rostering for mothers, strong female leadership, and encouraging women to reach their potential without discrimination, Ashleigh is becoming a loud and proud voice for those wishing to become successful in the industry.

Not only is she in the restaurant kitchen, but Ashleigh is often in the competition kitchen, actively participating in many culinary battles against other young and talented chefs. In the 2025 Nestle Golden Chef’s Hat competition, she won triple silver medals across entrée, main and dessert, also taking out Best Signature Dish, an award given to the chef who presents the most impressive signature dish that reflects their personal style, culture and culinary philosophy.

Class of 1965

Cheryl attended Maitland Girls’ High School from 1961 to 1965 particularly enjoying History and English classes, partaking in many debates and writing essays on thought-provoking topics that made class interesting and fun.

Cheryl’s teachers Mrs Jonas and Miss Paine had a big impact on her, teaching students to think deeply and critically, helping to instil a strong sense of justice.

Often selected for debating and speaking on assemblies, along with inherited genes from her grandfather’s political organising, Cheryl’s path took her into a very active community role and national representation.

After graduating, she went on to teach at High School and University levels with a passion and dedication for public education to be properly valued.

Cheryl taught at Oxford University about the emerging field of Social Enterprises/Businesses and how a business’s main purpose should be social impact, not just to make money. Her students worked in mattress recycling and an artisan bakery, where the primary purpose was to train and employ refugees and those who had been unemployed long-term.

“I’m proud of pioneering it in Australia.”

In 1990, Cheryl was elected to Australian Parliament and served almost 12 years to 2001. As leader of the Australian Democrats, she played an important role in many areas such as the introduction of superannuation for retirement security, and paid parental leave to allow Australian workers the right to care for sick children.

“I’m also very proud of my 7 years as a member of the Council for Reconciliation, working for better ways of sharing this land with First Australians, particularly through a better understanding of our history.”

Today, Cheryl serves as President of her grandchildren’s primary school. Alongside other dedicated parents and carers, she is still an active member of the education community raising funds and purchasing equipment essential to supporting the learning of today’s students.

Her journey from High School to today has been one of strength, dedication and passion, and leaves this advice to our current students.

“Be open to learning. Be kind to your peers at school. Be a good world citizen. Believe that you can do almost anything you want from the starting point of Maitland Grossmann High School.”

Artist and Graphic Designer

Class of 2018 - Prefect

Belle was an active participant in MGHS life right from the get-go, involving herself in every opportunity available. While she was enthusiastic in her junior years, her senior and final year in 2018 was where we really saw her shine, achieving many accolades including the following:

- U20’s Women’s State Champion 100 metre Hurdles

- MGHS Visual Arts Medal

- Visual Arts Major Project featured in ArtExpress showcase

- Ethel M Cramp Memorial Prize for Scholarship, Sportsmanship and School Citizenship

Belle credits her Visual Arts teacher, Mr Fletcher, for helping pave her way into the creative design industry.

“He cared about art and had a deep knowledge that radiates through.”

Because of these lessons, Belle made cherished friendships that have continued on into adult life and still fits in some art history reading into her busy schedule.

After her studies at MGHS, Belle attended University completing a Bachelor of Visual Communication and Design with Distinction. Now working as a Graphic Designer for the Sydney Swans, Belle has also been commissioned for amazing artworks and is currently working on a series of dot paintings and illustrations for a solo exhibition.

When Belle is working or relaxing, her MGHS roots are never far away with her Year 10 and Year 12 timber projects sitting proudly in her home. It’s exciting to think what beautiful designs and jobs are being created on top of her major work drafting table.

A shout out to Mr Dibley whose timber classes helped make these pieces and taught her some practical and invaluable life skills.

Upon reflection of her time at MGHS and entering life after school, Belle leaves the following advice - “Go for a walk, get the haircut, meet new people, try the thing!”

Paramedic and Emergency Department Nurse

Class of 2005

Stephanie describes her time at MGHS as very encouraging with a team of teachers who were passionate about giving students the best education and insights into life.

Stephanie was proud to receive a Principal’s Recommendation to attend university when she didn’t quite reach the UAI she needed, but the thought of being believed in to achieve was a huge honour for her, boosting her self-esteem to continue the pursuit of her goals.

After graduating in 2005, Stephanie attended the University of New England receiving a Bachelor of Nursing degree. In 2009, she entered the workforce which took her to Tamworth, Sydney and then home to Maitland where she moved into Team Leader roles and into her favourite unit, the Emergency Department.

In 2016, Stephanie furthered her studies at Charles Sturt University completing a Graduate Diploma of Paramedicine in 2018, fulfilling a lifelong goal.

“Paramedicine took me to Coonabarabran to experience rural healthcare and learn and see some amazing things.”

Stephanie is now a full-time Paramedic (and casual Emergency Department Nurse), where she is fortunate to work with amazing colleagues in a supportive environment.

“We laugh, we joke, we have each other’s back on the job.”

Along her journey, Stephanie has maintained close friendships from high school, has enjoyed travelling, seen personal growth, became a dog mum, and is loving the life she has carved for herself.

“My favourite memory from MGHS is the lifelong friends I have, those who had my back then, still do now.”

Stephanie is also a proud East Maitland Public School alumni, highlighting that our local public schools inspire excellence in a student's educational journey right from the very beginning.

Honorary Prefect

Former Teacher and Careers Advisor at MGHS

Honorary Prefect, Lee Osborne, is still associated with MGHS often attending our Formal Assemblies and liaising with the school to keep our rich history alive.

“I would like the students and staff of MGHS to continue to appreciate the history of our school and to sing our school song proudly.”

From 1967 to 1972, Lee attended Maitland Girls’ High School where she enjoyed Mathematics, leading her into a career as a Mathematics Teacher. Her favourite teacher was Mr Don Dyer, who was kind, patient and had a wonderful relationship with students, motivating them to achieve their best.

Retraining as a Careers Advisor in 1999, Lee was an integral part of the school guiding and assisting students on their own career journeys. She also mentored student leaders as Prefect Advisor and organised programs such as Adopt-A-Resident and Friday breakfasts.

After an amazing career, Lee is now a lady of leisure, thoroughly enjoying retirement since 2017.

“I am happily retired and love travelling with my husband. I have regular catchups with “Old Girls” and friends from teaching, retired Careers Advisors and ex-colleagues.”

Emergency Department Doctor

Class of 2019 - Dux

Isabella was a student who performed consistently throughout her junior years, but entering senior years she wanted to focus more seriously on her studies and decided that she owed it to herself to see what would happen if she worked to the best of her abilities.

Isabella’s diligence and determination more than paid off with her marks improving significantly, resulting in graduating as Dux of the school and the highest achieving Aboriginal student in the 2019 HSC.

Another achievement that Isabella cherishes is receiving the Jenni Wilson Memorial Prize for a student who best reflects the spirit and ideals of MGHS.

“It was a meaningful recognition of the dedication and resilience it took to reach that point in my schooling.”

While Isabella was supported and encouraged by many staff members, two teachers who had a great impact on her learning were Science teachers Ms Watson and Ms Shearer, who provided additional help during lunchtimes.

“Their encouragement and willingness to provide advice outside of the classroom helped me build the study skills and confidence I needed to push myself towards a career in Medicine.”

After her High School studies, Isabella completed a Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine at the University of Newcastle. She is now working as an Emergency Department Doctor with aspirations of specialising in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

Isabella’s interests are in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women’s Health, rural obstetrics and is passionate to one day be able to help improve maternal and fetal health outcomes in mum’s and babies with limited access to care.

Upon reflection of her time at MGHS, Isabella leaves the following advice for current students: “Despite your background, your family or how much support you have, always back yourself and never underestimate what you’re capable of.”

Electronics Engineer

Class of 2018

After graduating from UON and completing Military training, Mitchell is currently working as an Electronics Engineer in the RAAF where he has been fortunate enough to travel the world and meet new people from across the globe.

Mitchell is now furthering his education with a Masters of Systems Engineering and future aspirations of a PhD.

From MGHS to today, Mitchell has learned some very important life lessons and offers his advice to current students – Take every opportunity given, It’s ok to make mistakes, Work hard/Play hard, and Be a good human.

“MGHS is a large contributor to where I am today due to the supportive staff and the extracurricular activities that were offered. While studying at MGHS, I was able to participate in many engineering activities such as F1 in schools, electric bike challenges, CubeSat, and many Engineering Day challenges.

These laid the foundations for larger projects later on in my education and career and I continue to look back on the lessons learnt in each of those challenges.

I had a great time at MGHS and I wouldn’t change anything as the good and the bad made me who I am.”

Lawncare and Property Maintenance

Class of 2024

Finishing his studies in 2024, Greg was an integral member of the school community. He possessed a great rapport with staff and students and was involved in many extracurricular activities. These qualities were recognised at his Year 12 Graduation Ceremony where he was the recipient of the Lynne Montgomery Prize for Support Unit.

His passion to be involved and hard-working attitude has resulted in some important milestones since finishing school.

Greg has obtained his learner drivers licence (first try!), a huge step in every students journey into adulthood and independence.

He is also incredibly proud of himself for gaining employment at Usher Tinkler Wines, where he is responsible for lawncare and property maintenance. Greg’s care and skills keep the business looking it’s very best at all times, with his beautifully manicured lawns ensuring a positive experience for visitors.

When reflecting on his time at MGHS, Greg was grateful for the fact that all of his teachers were great, finding it impossible to pick just one who had an impact on him.

Health and Safety Advisor

Class of 2018

Zak’s passion for sport and leadership was evident in his time at MGHS, representing the school in swimming, cross country, state championships and elected as Prefect in Year 12.

From the academic opportunities provided, Zak enjoyed Mathematics, Biology and PD/H/PE, now realising that these subjects and extracurricular activities had a profound impact on his career path.

One activity that sparked his interest was the Bronze Medallion Course with Mr Ross, leading him into the Sport and Recreation Industry to work as a Lifeguard and eventually Duty Manager.

Zak took a gap year after graduation, working at snow fields and travelling overseas before commencing a university degree in Physiotherapy and Workplace Health and Safety.

“I was fortunate enough to combine the two skill sets to land a Health and Safety Advisor role for one of the world’s largest mining companies.”

Along his journey, Zak has accumulated skills at every step of the way, encouraging students to never stop learning and to seek advice from others who have been where you want to go.

“Their experiences can guide you through tough choices.”

Pharmacist

Class of 2018

Chloe was a kind, courteous, and conscientious student who achieved to high standard in all areas. This was evident in her being awarded the Prize for a student who achieved to the best of their abilities in all subjects, and General Proficiency at her Year 12 Graduation in 2018.

While at MGHS, Chloe studied a range of courses including History, Chemistry, and Biology, and feels lucky to have had great relationships with her teachers.

“Even though History is not related to my career today, I thoroughly enjoyed Mrs Jardine’s class. Her kindness, leadership, and the way she encouraged students taught me just as much as the subject itself”.

Chloe is now working in the healthcare industry as a pharmacist serving the Maitland community, not expecting her High School Chemistry classes to now be a part of her career.

“The concepts of Chemistry were challenging, but when I combined what I was learning in Chemistry and Biology and my work experience in pharmacy, it all started to click”.

That combination sparked an interest for Chloe eventually becoming something she is highly passionate about.

Recently, Chloe has been involved in research focused on shaping the future of community pharmacy on a global scale travelling to Europe for the FIP World Congress.

“It’s exciting to be part of improving not only the care I provide to my own patients, but also the future of the profession as a whole”.

Upon reflection on her time at MGHS, Chloe is thankful for the connections and experiences she had and encourages current students to make the most of their time at school.

“Have fun! High School goes so by much faster than you think so enjoy it while you’re there”.

Journalist and Producer

Class of 2015

Jessica always knew she wanted to study at university after her time at MGHS, but didn’t really know where it could lead her.

Today, she graces our screens as a Journalist and Producer for the Nine Network/NBN News, delivering important news and events.

One aspect of her studies that unexpectedly helped shape her future was Mr West’s Legal Studies course. Jessica has worked as the Court Reporter for Nine News, Gold Coast, and drew on her background knowledge to assist in her journalism.

“Some of the legal precedents he taught have stuck with me.”

Jessica now also enjoys travelling and is passionate about getting to see the world.

“I love exploring new places and experiencing new things. I travelled to Canada last month, which was amazing.”