Aboriginal Hostels Limited marked a proud moment in 2025 by celebrating the graduation of eight Secondary Education hostel residents who have completed Year 12.
The graduates — all from New South Wales — are drawn from Kirinari Newcastle, Grey Street Dubbo and Kirinari Sydney, and reflect the strong outcomes across AHL's hostel network.
The milestone carries added significance given the challenges many of the students have navigated along the way. Several spent every school term living away from their families and home communities, often travelling from small or remote towns to pursue their education.
For Beau from the Kirinari Hostel in Newcastle, his time boarding with AHL has left a lasting impact.
"I truly appreciate my time boarding with AHL," Beau said.
"I have created so many special memories, and completing Year 12 is a huge achievement that I will cherish forever. The staff and students I've had the privilege of working with and meeting, have become lifelong friends."
Beau thanked Aunt Lee and Uncle Jade — for always guiding him to be the best version of himself, noting, "they absolutely go above and beyond" — and his parents for their support whilst he is boarding away from home.
"Our Kirinari motto, 'come in as strangers, leave as brothers', is a saying that will stay with me forever. The brotherhood we share is truly unmatched," he says.
"As I move into an apprenticeship in carpentry, I look forward to the next challenge. I also encourage all young Indigenous kids to consider boarding with AHL; it truly changed my life and I will be forever grateful."
AHL's Secondary Education hostels aim to provide more than accommodation, offering a holistic approach to education that includes access to extra-curricular activities, structured support programs and nutritious, dietitian-designed meals.
Grey Street Hostel Dubbo graduate Tatiarna reflected on her experience, acknowledging the support she received during her time away from home, having moved from her hometown of Walgett six years ago to board at Grey Street.
"I am incredibly grateful to Kristy and her team," she said.
"They played a vital role in helping me complete my educational journey. They are truly exceptional, and I admire how they manage such a challenging job, guiding these kids with dedication and skill."
Head of Boarding at Grey Street Hostel, Kristy Hill, said the feedback captured the heart of the work being done.
"Tatiarna's message truly reminds us that despite all the challenges we encounter, this job is incredibly rewarding," she said.
AHL says the achievements highlight both the resilience of the students and the role played by hostel staff — including Heads and Deputies of Boarding and residential youth workers — who support students throughout their schooling.
