Students across Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges woke up on Thursday morning to their ATAR results, with plenty of nerves and excitement.
At Sacred Heart College in Kyneton, the college dux was Madison Morgan-Smith, who achieved an ATAR of 97.15. The dux proximus was Juliette Johnson who achieved an ATAR of 93.75.
Madison completed her first VCE subject in year 10, and went on to complete university extension studies for applied science at La Trobe University in years 11 and 12.
“I’m excited and relieved to finally have my results and really happy to learn that I’m dux of the college,” Madison said.
“Completing VCE was a long process, planning the subjects I needed to get into the course I wanted. I tried to balance work and study across the year because I didn’t want to miss out on any of the special year 12 activities in my final year.”
Madison said she hopes to study medicine at either La Trobe University in Bendigo or James Cook University in Townsville next year.
Salesian College Sunbury’s dux was Ethan Carter, who achieved an ATAR of 98.85.
Ethan studied physics, specialist mathematics and mathematical methods, and said being organised was the key to his success.
“For me, it wasn’t solely about the ATAR score – it was about selecting subjects that resonated with my interests,” he said.
“Of course, there were challenging times, and that’s when resilience became vital, along with the unwavering support of my family.”
He said his goal was always taking pride in his work and staying committed.
Ethan plans to commence a Bachelor of Science at The University of Melbourne, majoring in mathematics in the new year.
The vocational major dux for the college is Livinia Saffery, who completed certificate II in agriculture and certificate II in workplace skills.
She said she received support from her family, friends and teachers to help her achieve.
“My approach was to get involved in everything and make sure I completed all my work to the best of my abilities,” she said.
“This helped me make the most of my time in the VM program and stay engaged in all aspects of my learning.”
Livinia has an electrical apprenticeship lined up with Maxim Electrical and Infrastructure next year.
At Braemar College, Alannnah Byrne was the college dux, with an ATAR of 99.2. The dux proximus was Thor Royal, with an ATAR of 98.95.
