Creative Generation Excellence Awards 2025

After three years of dedication, discovery, and adventure, Year 11 student Rori Zimmerman, Fairholme’s first Duke of Edinburgh International Award Gold-level recipient, reflects proudly on a journey that has challenged her, connected her with others, and taught her valuable life skills along the way. ‘The Duke of Ed has four sections,’ Rori explains. ‘You have to do a skill, a physical recreation, a voluntary service, and Adventurous Journeys. For me, my skill has been piano, my sport has been netball, and my service has included a mix of different things – from Homework Help tutoring and aged care service to, this year, serving as a Boarding Prefect.’ Each level of the Award – Bronze, Silver, and Gold – demands greater commitment and responsibility. ‘You need to dedicate at least an hour a week to each area. Bronze runs for 13 weeks, Silver for 26, and Gold for 52. It’s a real test of consistency.’ The Gold level also requires a Residential Project, where participants spend 10 days in a foreign environment, giving back to a community. For Rori that opportunity came through the College’s Cambodia trip with RAW Impact. Of all the components, however, the Adventurous Journeys stand out as both the most challenging and the most transformative. ‘For Bronze, it’s a one-day, two-night hike; for Silver, two nights and three days; and for Gold, three nights and four days.’ ‘You’re out in the middle of nowhere with your maps, a leader, and everything you need on your back. It’s tough, but it’s where I’ve learnt the most about myself.’ She laughs as she recalls some of those moments of endurance. ‘There were definitely times I didn’t want to keep going, but that’s where I’ve learnt not to give up when things get hard. I’ve also learnt skills that not many young people have these days, like reading a map and using a compass when there’s no phone service or Google Maps. It’s pretty cool to be able to say I can do that!’ Her Gold Adventurous Journeys were conducted through PCYC Gold Coast, where she had the chance to meet students from other schools. ‘I’ve made a really good friend from St Margaret’s. We went on our first Gold hike together on the Sunshine Coast Great Walk and bonded straight away. We then did our second Gold hike together at Maroon Dam during the holidays. The terrain was really challenging, but it was so rewarding.’ Reflecting on her experience, Rori encourages other Fairholme students t o give the Duke of Edinburgh program a go. ‘I already did a lot of the activities that are part of the program, so it’s great to get recognition for the things I was already involved in,’ she says. ‘But beyond that, it’s a fantastic way to try new things, meet people, and learn life skills. I highly recommend it to anyone, especially if you want to push yourself and gain global recognition for your efforts. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a globally recognised framework for non-formal education, used by schools and community organisations for more than 60 years to celebrate the personal growth and achievements of young people. As Fairholme’s first Gold Award recipient, Rori has set a high standard and opened the door for many others to follow in her footsteps. If you’re interested in getting involved, contact Fairholme’s Duke of Edinburgh Co-ordinator, Mr Peyton for more information.