The event last 12 October showcased the culmination of hard work and dedication from students and staff alike.
The concert featured various performances, including instrumental and vocal ensembles. The school’s commitment to music education was evident in the high quality of the performances, which impressed the audience.
The school’s Instrumental Music program, which spans from Year 7 to 12, offers many ensembles, including concert bands, big bands, string orchestras, symphony orchestras, and various vocal groups. The program is supported by a dedicated team of specialist teachers who provide individual tuition in instruments like harp and guitar.
Kedron State High School has a long-standing tradition of excellence in music education, dating back over 50 years. The school’s Instrumental Music Supporters Group (KIMS) is vital in supporting the program through fundraising and event coordination.
The school’s commitment to providing high-quality music education opportunities has fostered a vibrant and thriving music community at Kedron State High School.
Kedron State High School has quietly cultivated an impressive roster of alumni who have achieved significant success in diverse fields. From the arts and sports to academia and public service, former students of Kedron State High have made their mark nationally and internationally.
This unassuming institution has played a pivotal role in fostering the talents of these individuals, providing a foundation for their future accomplishments.
Professor Kenneth Wiltshire, a leading authority on Australian public administration, began his journey at Kedron. His expertise in governance, public sector management, and federalism has made him a respected academic voice, publishing extensively on these complex topics. Professor Wiltshire’s career at the University of Queensland is a testament to the strong academic grounding he received at Kedron State High.
The entertainment world also boasts a Kedron alumnus in the form of acclaimed actress Rowena Wallace. She has enjoyed a long and varied career across stage and screen. Wallace is best known for her memorable roles in iconic Australian television series like “Sons and Daughters” and “Neighbours.”
Adding to Kedron’s artistic legacy is the operatic baritone Jason Barry-Smith. His powerful voice has graced opera houses across the globe, captivating audiences with his renditions of Verdi and Puccini. Barry-Smith’s vocal prowess and stage presence have earned him critical acclaim throughout his international career.
Kedron State High School has also proven fertile ground for sporting talent. A former Major League Baseball player, David Nilsson honed his skills on the school’s playing fields before starting a successful career with the Milwaukee Brewers. Known for his offensive capabilities as a catcher, Nilsson later returned to Australia, dedicating himself to the development of baseball in his home country.
The AFL also features two Kedron alumni: Aliir Aliir, a key defender for the Sydney Swans, and Ally Anderson, a tough midfielder for the Brisbane Lions. Aliir is admired for his athleticism and defensive strength, while Anderson is recognised for her tenacity and skill in winning contested possessions. Both athletes exemplify the school’s commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals who excel on and off the field.
Lance Reynolds, a successful film and television producer, is another Kedron graduate who has made a name for himself in the creative industries. His work spans various projects, both in Australia and overseas, showcasing his ability to translate creative visions into compelling screen content.
Dr Adrianne Pope, a distinguished scientist, further demonstrates the breadth of talent nurtured at Kedron State High. Her contributions to scientific research have advanced knowledge and understanding in her field, highlighting the school’s role in fostering intellectual curiosity and a passion for discovery.
The achievements of these former students underscore the significant contribution Kedron State High School has made to Australian society. By providing a supportive and stimulating learning environment, the school has equipped its students with the skills and confidence to pursue their passions and excel in their chosen fields.
The diverse accomplishments of Kedron alumni inspire current and future students and demonstrate the potential for success within the walls of this unassuming suburban school.
Kedron State High School, originally the site of Kedron Park Racecourse, has evolved from a historic racing venue into a vibrant educational institution since its establishment in 1956, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of Queensland.
Situated on an expansive 12-hectare site, Kedron State High School’s history dates back to the Turrbul People’s traditional lands.
From Racecourse to Classroom
Initially established in 1881, the Kedron Park Hotel, built by Frederick Morris who also organized races on adjacent land, stood as a central landmark. By 1888, the property transitioned towards becoming a formal racecourse with the formation of the Kedron Park Racecourse and Sports Ground Company Limited, which acquired the hotel, sports grounds, and additional land from the estate.
Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland
This period saw the first races taking place in 1889, though a subsequent lull in the 1890s possibly linked to the floods of that era suggests challenges that impacted the site’s development.
By the early 20th century, ownership and management of the racecourse shifted dramatically. In 1911, James Sharpe acquired the racecourse, only to sell it a year later to Benjamin Nathan and John Wren for a significant sum that reflected its value and potential.
John Wren’s legacy in the area extends beyond his early ownership stakes. His entrepreneurial spirit influenced various facets of Queensland’s recreational and cultural life, including his ownership of Albion Park and Brisbane’s Festival Hall. Wren’s multifaceted career, which spanned from bookmaking to newspaper ownership, left a lasting imprint on the community, bridging past and present narratives of the Kedron site.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The next decade saw further infrastructural developments, including the extension of the tram line to the hotel in 1914 and a Royal Commission’s safety recommendations in 1921.
However, financial difficulties became apparent as the Kedron Amateur Racing Club, formed in 1923, struggled to meet the financial obligations of their contract to purchase the course, leading to a precarious financial state by the late 1920s.
The final chapter of the racecourse’s history began with the last racing events in the early 1930s, influenced by another royal commission which led to the Racing Act and the eventual closure of the racecourse.
The land’s fate was sealed when the Queensland Government resumed it in 1955 for educational purposes, leading to the establishment of Kedron State High School.
Photo Credit: KedronSHS
This transition from entertainment to education is echoed in several Brisbane locations, where former racetracks, such as Coorparoo Secondary College and East Brisbane State School/The Gabba, have been repurposed to serve community educational needs.
Educational Achievements and Community Integration
Over the decades, Kedron State High School has embraced substantial growth, with student numbers swelling from an initial 274 to almost 1700 by 2020. The site has seen significant architectural advancements, replacing old racecourse buildings with modern facilities designed to support an increasing number of students. These developments have accommodated educational needs and enhanced the school grounds’ aesthetic and functional aspects.
Kedron’s student body mirrors the evolving multicultural landscape of Queensland. With over 20,000 alumni, the school’s community reflects a broad spectrum of cultural backgrounds, evident in the 38 languages recorded in a 2003 language census.
Photo Credit: KSHS/Google Maps
This diversity is celebrated annually during Kedron Week. This event highlights the rich culture of the school through language presentations, music, and dance, reinforcing the school’s commitment to an inclusive educational environment.
Ongoing Educational Excellence
The school’s alumni include distinguished personalities such as Professor Kenneth Wiltshire, actress Rowena Wallace, and sports figures like David Nilsson and AFL stars Aliir Aliir and Ally Anderson. These individuals exemplify the school’s ability to nurture talent across various disciplines, contributing significantly to both national and international communities.
The school continues to uphold high educational standards, adapting to contemporary academic demands while maintaining a nurturing environment that values the individual potential of its students. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for various future paths, equipping them with the skills necessary for success in an increasingly globalised world.
Duncan, an avid Taylor Swift fan, has been immersed in Swift’s music for the longest time, dedicating countless hours to listening to her tracks. His room, adorned with official and DIY merchandise, is a testament to his devotion to the pop sensation.
Duncan’s Spotify statistics last year were straight from Swiftie folklore. He ranked in the top 0.01% of Taylor listeners on Spotify, clocking an astounding 107,000 minutes of her music. Of his top 250 most-played songs, 201 were from Taylor Swift. He even secured a spot as one of the top 50 listeners of Swift’s song, ‘Mr. Perfectly Fine’.
Despite his deep admiration for the artist, Duncan faced disappointment when he missed out on tickets for Taylor Swift’s upcoming Australian tour, even after an exhaustive 48-hour online pursuit. Just when he ran out of hope, fate intervened in a surprise visit to his classroom.
The popular radio hosts, Carrie & Tommy from B105, sneaked into his classroom, handing him not just one but two tickets to Taylor Swift’s concert. The emotional moment captured on video revealed Duncan’s disbelief, asking, “Are you Carrie & Tommy?”
Emma, Duncan’s friend, played a pivotal role in making this dream a reality. Nominating him for the tickets, she explained, “because he’s my best friend and the biggest Taylor Swift fan” embodying the genuine spirit of Swifties.
Witnessing this magical moment, Emma let out a few tears of joy, and Duncan reciprocated with the biggest grateful hug.
In true Swiftie style, Duncan celebrated by performing some Taylor Swift songs on the piano, trumpet, and violin in front of the class, turning the classroom into a mini Taylor Swift concert.
The heartwarming video of the surprise has swiftly gone viral on social media, with fans congratulating Duncan on this extraordinary opportunity. Duncan’s journey from a dedicated listener to a concert attendee resonates with the power of music to bring joy into people’s lives.
As Duncan eagerly prepares for the concert, the excitement is palpable. This unexpected turn of events proves that dreams can materialise, even in the most surprising circumstances. Now, everyone can tell that he’s the lucky one!
The two-metre tall fence was put up to improve security and prevent trespassing and vandalism at the school grounds. However, some residents believe it makes the school look too much like a prison.
“Agree with the idea but why security fence needed?” said one member of the school’s public group on Facebook.
Photo credit: Kedron State High School/Facebook
However, other locals argued that the fence was necessary to keep out troublemakers, with one saying it was not “fencing them in but rather fencing undesirables out.” Some even liked the colour of the fence, adding that it complemented the school’s uniform.
“At just over two metres tall, our first brand new fence since 1962 creates a remarkable security contrast with the previous (approx 2 foot 6 inch) chain wire fence next door at the former college,” said a member of the Kedron State High School Class Photos group.
Photo credit: Kedron State High School/Facebook
The school had reportedly seen an increase in vandalism and issues with dog waste being left on its sports ovals by non-students in recent years.
Kedron State High School is one of 58 Queensland state schools to have installed new security fences between 2020 and 2023 based on security incident reports, according to the Department of Education. Security incidents include trespassing, burglary, and arson attempts.
The new security fence is constructed from panels made up of black spear-top steel pickets and rails, with galvanised steel tubing. This type of fencing is one of the designs approved by the Department of Education for areas where the school boundary is accessible from public spaces like sidewalks or roads.
The department conducts annual security risk assessments of schools and funds security upgrades like fences to protect students, faculty, and property. Five more schools are slated to receive new fences in 2023 and 2024.
Kedron State High School’s Year 12 debating team lived up to the school motto, ‘to strive is to shine,’ as they rose to the top at the Queensland Debating Union – QDU 2022 Finals Series.
In a first for Kedron State High School, its Year 12 debating team has won the Seniors Champion title, wresting the title from the State’s most prestigious school for girls, Brisbane Girls Grammar School.
The team, consisting of Calvin Liu, Jack Turner, Bede House, and Hugo Hall, came out on top at the championship rounds at Somerville House on 24 August 2022.
“The entire 2022 QDU Debating season, Hugo Hall, Bede House, Calvin Liu and Jack Turner lived the school motto ‘to strive is to shine,’ working hard and acquitting themselves as gentlemen and scholars, but on Wednesday evening, they also proved themselves champions,” Kedron State High School stated.
“Brisbane Girls’ Grammar were (sic) a formidable opponent, our students having to do their absolute best to meet the challenge,” the school said in a Facebook post, commending the students for a job well done.
Photo credit: Kedron State High School/Facebook
According to Lui, the team’s vice-captain, the community’s support “lit a flame” that pushed them to be confident about beating the powerhouses.
Kedron State High’s former students Jacob Morgan, James Shoring, Reily Chapman, Rowan Gray, and Wilson Heslop, who were also part of the debating team when they attended the school years ago, helped as the consultants of the team.
The talented students of Kedron State High qualified for the Finals Series after winning against Queensland Academy of Science Maths and Technology (QASMT) and Mary MacKillop College, Nundah earlier this year.
Once dubbed the underdog, the Kedron State High School debating team has emerged victorious at the 2022 Queensland Debating Union Grand Final, beating elite squads from private schools like Brisbane Girls Grammar and Brisbane Boys’ College.
Year 12 students Hugo Hall, Bede House, Calvin Liu, and Jack Turner did their school proud as they were named champions of the prestigious competition, after knocking back two of its toughest opponents in the quarter and semi-final rounds.
The loudest cheers were heard at the spot where a large continent of Kedron SHS watched the debates on implementing a Universal Basic Income at the Somerville House on Wednesday, 24th Aug 2022.
According to Lui, the team’s vice-captain, the community’s support “lit a flame” that pushed them to be confident about beating the powerhouses.
The victory has been sweeter as Kedron State High School is a fairly young and small team, under the mentorship of its former student and English teacher Ryan Taylor-Davis. They admittedly had nerves knowing the accomplishments of Brisbane Girls Grammar and Brisbane Boys’ College, which have been training longer and have bigger teams.
Also helping out the team as consultants were Jacob Morgan, James Shoring, Reily Chapman, Rowan Gray and Wilson Heslop, who were also part of the debating team when they attended Kedron State High School years ago.
“The entire 2022 QDU Debating season, Hugo Hall, Bede House, Calvin Liu and Jack Turner lived the school motto “to strive is to shine”, working hard and acquitting themselves as gentlemen and scholars, but on Wednesday evening, they also proved themselves champions,” the school stated.
Kedron State HS gets relief with the release of the new Inner City North State Secondary College (ICNSSC) catchment area.
Education Minister Grace Grace announced the release of the new catchment area for ICNSSC which is located on St Pauls Terrace and Brookes Street in Fortitude Valley.
As the growing student population pushed inner-city schools to either near or full capacity, ICNSSC will help ease enrolment congestion in these schools, including Kedron State High School. Day 8 enrolments in Kedron State High School for 2018 and 2019 were 1,505 and 1,602 respectively; the maximum enrolment capacity in KSHS is 1,586.
The new catchment comes with a few changes: a slight increase to the northeastern boundary and slight reduction to the northwestern, thereby altering eligibility zones for Kelvin Grove State College, Kedron SHS, and Aviation High.
The modifications are intended to avoid splitting the streets between catchments as well as to follow main roads and natural landmarks.
“After consulting with the local community late last year, the Department of Education has finalised the catchment for the new state high school, providing much-anticipated certainty for local families,” Ms Grace said.
Photo Credit: The State of Queensland (Department of Education) / advancingeducation.qld.gov.au
As announced, the new ICNSSC will open in 2020 to year 7 students, growing each year to 2025 when it is expected to accommodate 1,500 students in Years 7-12.
“It’s fantastic to achieve this milestone, which will allow us to open enrolments for the first cohort of Year 7 students, so they are ready to start school in Term 1, 2020.
“The feedback from the local community highlighted that the local inner northern Brisbane communities are very excited to be a part of this future-focused secondary college.”
Inner City North State Secondary College concept design Photo Credit: The State of Queensland (Department of Education) / advancingeducation.qld.gov.au
During the consultation period, the Department of Education received more than 250 preliminary expressions of interest for enrolments, according to ICNSSC Principal Sharon Barker.
“Now that the catchment has been finalised, all eligible families, including those that submitted a preliminary expression of interest, are now encouraged to apply to enrol at our school,” Ms Barker said.
The new ICNSSC, the first in 50 years, is part of the government’s $808 million Building Future Schools Fund and will be delivered in conjunction with the Queensland University of Technology.
The Kedron High RSL Liaison Prefects is calling the community to help them find former or current Kedron State High School students or staff who served as part of the Australian Defence Force during military campaigns.
The prefects want the names of all Kedron State High School servicemen and women to be included on the new Honour Board for the state high school, in preparation of the Anzac Day celebration in 2018.
Marching to ANZAC service at Kedron Wavell RSL Credit: Kedron State High School Facebook
The people that are being searched for could have worked or may still be working as cleaners, groundsmen, office workers, teachers, principals, and other related jobs at Kedron State High School and other places after their stint at Kedron.
The Honour Board is the brainchild of a 17-year-old Kedron State High School student, Ryan Malone. It has also been his idea that the board be ready in time for the Anzac Day 2018. With the Honour Board, he wants to pay tribute to the ex-service people who attended his school, apart from being remembered twice a year.
Kedron State High School opened in 1956. Malone initially thought that there only be staff or former students who served during the Vietnam War on the Board. As of press time however, names that have been submitted for the board extend to those who served in World War II, Afghanistan, and the Malayan conflict.
Students Credit: Kedron State High School Facebook
To make the Honour Board ready for next year, he contacted RSL Liaison Prefect Claudia Watson from the Kedron-Wavell RSL Sub Branch for help. The latter then started its community-wide campaign, asking everyone for help.
In the event that enough names are gathered before the Anzac Day 2018, the Honour Board will be unveiled on the same day. However, the search for the servicemen will continue until all possible names have turned up.
Military service seems to have captured Malone’s heart entirely. The young man dreams of joining the reserves after graduating from college.
Cultural diversity contributes to Australia and to the Australian Defence Force Credit: Defence Jobs Australia Facebook
Those who are interested to submit names to the Honour Board, please contact Kedron State High School through their phone – 3630 3333 or email them by clicking here.
Meanwhile, the Kedron-Wavell RSL Sub Branch is also inviting servicewomen who served in World War II, the Land Army, post-WWII, or those who are currently serving the Defence. These women are being invited to be a member of the Kedron-Wavell Ex-Servicewomen’s Association, which ultimate goal is to continue and preserve the history of Women’s Defence Service. For further information, please click here.
