Jakara Day inspires the next generation of local heroes

STUDENTS at Geelong Christian College Bellarine Campus adorned their uniforms with green and gold on Tuesday to celebrate Jakara Day in tribute to Olympic gold medallist and former student Jakara Anthony.

Head of Campus Nicola Morish said the day was about more than cheering an Olympic hero; it was about showing students that dedication and humility can grow from their own backyard.

“We decided to do a Jakara Day because we’re so excited by her success,” Morish said.

“It’s inspirational for our kids to see one of their own up there, achieving at that level.”

Anthony, who studied at the Bellarine Campus as a Year 9 student before graduating in 2016, was also recently inducted into the school’s Sport Hall of Honour.

Staff and students watched recordings of her moguls run in the library and holding their own mini–Olympics in the gym to mark the occasion.

“The kids are really engaged… they see that she was once here, and it makes them think, I could do that too,” Morish said.

Former teacher Gary Crowle, who taught Anthony humanities, remembered her as diligent, respectful, and quietly determined even as a teenager balancing schoolwork and international training.

“She was studious and driven… even when she was away, she got her work sent through,” Crowle said.

“The college supported her dream while helping her stay on track academically.”

He said Anthony’s humility has remained unchanged despite her worldwide success.

“I ran into her once at Waurn Ponds, and she still said, ‘Hello, Mr Crowle,’ as if no time had passed,” he recalled.

“She’s achieved so much and yet stayed grounded… that’s what makes her special.”

Jakara’s achievements continue to inspire new generations across the campus.

“We wanted an event that reminds our community that love, effort, and perseverance still count,” Morish said.

“Jakara shows that from this little corner of the Bellarine, you can go anywhere.”

Whether through snow-suit designs or classroom discussions, Jakara Day reminded students that champions are raised right here on the Bellarine.