Community & Business
3 November, 2025
Brightest & best on display at OSHS Awards Night
The Oakey district’s brightest and best were on display for parents and families at Oakey State High School’s (OSHS) Awards Night, at which student Makaela Henderson from Narko received the prestigious Senior Dux Award.
For as long as she has attended Oakey State High, Makaela has been a fixture at awards night, and this award was of little surprise to anyone who has been following her progress over the years.
At the Awards Night, it was announced that Makaela, who also won the AJ Hindman Women in STEM Prize, intends to study a Bachelor of Medicine.
This year’s Awards Night was a little different, with the gravelly voice and inspirational quotes of Principal Mr Danny Keenan, at his own child’s award ceremony, replaced by fill-in MC Mr Mark Ashley.
Mr Ashley reflected on his journey at Oakey State High School since arriving as a young teacher in 2009, and how his colleagues at the time would scarcely have believed he would have been in such a position of responsibility at the school in 2025.
He told the students that his story was an example of how, if you set your mind to it, you can do amazing things.
Along with Makaela’s, several other prestigious awards were handed out on the night.
Talented hockey player Molly McKewen received the Year 12 All-Rounder Award for her academic and leadership achievements.
Recognising her achieve-ments in leadership, the QATSIF Award was presented to Pipah Collins, while the Deadly Award for School Values went to Aaliyah Washington.
For the first time, the Stockperson of the Year Award was split five ways, with Amy Turner receiving an Award for Mohair Judging, in recognition of her success at the Royal Sydney Show, along with Ryan Densley and Cooper James-Nelson, Matilda Herron and Tasha-Jane Voss.
Australian Defence Force’s Long Tan Leadership & Teamwork Award went to Isabella Ferguson, while the Oakey RSL Recognition of Excellence bursaries were presented to Connie Bradley and Tessa Gale.
Strawberry Burgess received the Senior Encouragement Award for her personal growth this year, achieving personal success while overcoming obstacles in her senior years.
The achievements of those in Vocational Education this year were also recognised with Deanna Calderon and Georgia Jervis picking up awards for their work in the community while at school.
In a similar category, Jenna Schilf received the Excellence in a School Based Traineeship or Apprenticeship Award.
It wasn’t all about the Seniors - Rylan Cockburn in Year 10 won the ADF Future Innovators Award for his participation in Science Week, Crystal Wieck took out the Junior Secondary All-Rounder, and Ashley Panzram won the Key to Success for her work in the Ag Sector, while incoming School captain Sonny McCormack received the Pat Weir Encouragement Award for his leadership skills.
