The Culcairn students in southern NSW were assessed by their peers and members of the school community including teachers and parents.

George Leov and Zali Lieschke have been named school captains. They will be supported by vice captains, Charlee Kleine and Jack Retallick.

Mr Leov described earning the captaincy as being an “absolute honour.”

“Ever since I was primary school captain (at Culcairn Public School) I have wanted to be Billabong High School’s captain,” he said.

Inclusiveness and a valuable connection with fellow students was one of the strengths vice captain Miss Kleine wanted to highlight in her role.

Billabong High School deputy principal, Julie Bowen said the field of applicants for the role was excellent. She said selecting the captains and vice captains could best be described as “rigorous.”

“Firstly there is a written application, then an interview panel, and a speech to the entire school community of 400 students,” she said.

Mrs Bowen said the panel interview was an important step in the selection process.

“I lead the panel and we have a parent representative and a teacher representative,” she said.

Ms Bowen conceded the process might feel a little daunting for some people. 

However, she said the school certainly took the process seriously.  “That interview can last up to 15 minutes and we ask a lot of questions and really explore why they want to be a leader within our school,” Ms Bowen said. 

“I am very proud to have these people as our school captains … they certainly came against a competitive field and  they are from a strong year group,” she said. 

“I am looking forward to working with them over the next 12 months.”

Meanwhile, Billabong High School has a strong sporting and agricultural focus. Students returned home after a successful Royal Melbourne Show this week too.