How one student’s artwork is shaping a College community this National Reconciliation Week

For St John’s College, Nambour Year 12 student Holly, art is more than a creative outlet, it is a powerful way to express identity, honour her culture, and build connection within her school community.

This National Reconciliation Week (NRW) (27 May to 3 June), Holly shares how her artistic talent is helping weave the fabric that is St John’s College.

Did you know?One of Holly’s earliest and most significant artworks was created in Year 8! The yellow and navy-blue dotted design now features proudly on a tie worn by every senior student, as well as the pillars lining the hill up to the Benedict Building.

The pillars also display the College values of Hospitality, Balance, Community, Listening, Prayer, Peace, Healing, Word of God, Stewardship, Humility, Partnership and Compassion.

Holly said being asked to create the College tie, which was later turned into the artwork for the College pillars, was a great honour. “Seeing your own artwork out there is a bit surreal, especially knowing it’s worn around the school every day.”

St John’s College Principal Martin Moloney said the tie and pillars have become central to the College’s identity.

“Anyone who is familiar with our College knows of the tie and pillars,” he said. “Holly’s artwork guides our community forward on its ongoing journey of Reconciliation, encouraging balance, deep listening and a shared commitment to walking together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, now and into the future,” he said.

Excellence in action

In Year 9, Holly was also selected to create a large school mural, creating two artworks representing the Acacia and Casuarina houses (blue and yellow).

In Year 11, Holly was also tasked with designing the St John’s College staff shirt, to be worn by staff in cultural days.

Holly’s leadership extends beyond visual art, she also spearheaded NAIDOC Week at the College last year, inviting her peers into painting and weaving workshops.

Martin adds that Holly has contributed to almost every cultural initiative at the College.

“Holly has been part of St John’s College Reconciliation Action Plan committee since 2024 and serves as our Stewardship and Culture Captain in 2026,” he said.

Holly also placed second at the statewide QATSIF art competition in 2025.In 2026, Holly was also  invited to create BCE’s First Nations Year 12 Graduation artwork and was part of Brisbane Catholic Education’s (BCE) Dappil Meeanjin Dances Aboriginal student dance group.

A bright future awaits!

As she prepares to graduate, Holly’s vision for the future remains grounded in people and culture.Alongside her artistic pursuits, she would also like to focus on supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

“I hope to work in a First Nations health organisation once I graduate,” she said.“I want to help people.”

Long-term, Holly dreams of starting her own Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wellbeing centre, supporting young people and families.

For more information about St John’s College, Nambour or to enrol click here.

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About NRW

NRW is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving Reconciliation in Australia.

Image caption: St John’s College, Nambour Year 12 student Holly. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, St John's College, Nambour (2026).