General News
28 May, 2025
Good Shepherd students perform under pressure
The hospitality students were at their best at the Good Shepherd Catholic College Business Breakfast.
Gabby Dolzan is taking the first steps in her career before she has even graduated high school.
The Good Shepherd Catholic College Year 12 student has completed a Certificate I and II in Hospitality, Certificate II in Cosmetics and Retail, and is currently undertaking a Diploma in Beauty Therapy alongside her usual schoolwork.
The diploma includes one day of work placement during the school week which allows her to gain on-the-job training.
Gabby said she hoped the qualifications would assist her future career aspirations after she completed secondary school at the end of the year.
“I am aiming to have all my theory completed for my diploma by the time I finish,” she said.
“I am open to any certificates or qualifications that can help boost my skills.”
Gabby joined a dozen hospitality students for the annual business breakfast event at Good Shepherd Catholic College last week.
The students arrived early in the morning to prepare a range of breakfast plates, including tomato avocado toast, ham and cheese croissants and blueberry muffins, before serving the food and coffee to the gathering.
Good Shepherd Catholic College principal Meagan Waldon said the business breakfast was a “cherished event” that played a vital role in preparing students for life beyond the classroom.
She said the event had previously led students to work experience and mentorship opportunities with local business leaders.
“By connecting with professionals from a range of industries, students gain insight into potential career pathways, build confidence in engaging with adults in professional settings and begin to understand the practical steps involved in reaching their goals,” she said.
“First envisioned by the late Fiona Coghlan, a much-loved careers counsellor, this event has grown into a meaningful tradition of connection and opportunity.
“Fiona’s legacy lives on through each conversation, relationship and career pathway fostered at the breakfast.”
Sunshine Coast-based barrister Ross McSwan was the guest speaker at the event.
He discussed the five career stages, based on age, maturity and experience, and offered some wise advice for navigating the often stormy waters of working life.
“Some days there were diamonds and some days there were stones,” he said.