At Whites Hill State College, our motto, "Imagine, Believe, Achieve," embodies the spirit of growth, resilience, and possibility. We inspire our students to dream big, have confidence in their abilities, and work diligently to turn their aspirations into reality. This guiding principle is at the heart of everything we do, shaping a supportive environment where every student is empowered to reach their full potential.
In 2023, we had the privilege of collaborating with a talented First Nations artist to create a unique piece of artwork that reflects the rich cultural heritage of our community. This project was a meaningful opportunity for our students to engage with Indigenous culture, as they worked closely with the artist to contribute their ideas and stories.
The artwork stands as a symbol of unity, respect, and the shared journey of learning and growth. It celebrates the deep connection to Country and the importance of embracing diversity and inclusion within our College community.
We are proud to display this incredible piece as a reminder of the strength and beauty of collaboration, creativity, and cultural understanding.
About the artist - Danielle Leedie Gray
Danielle Leedie Gray is an artist and designer, and a descendant of the Bidjara and Wakka Wakka people of south west and east Queensland, Australia.
IMAGINE:
This illustration reflects the power of our imagination and how it influences everything we do, think about and create.
"Earlier this year I was invited to Whites Hill State College to speak and work with the students on a creative project. Together we brainstormed and developed sketches about their school motto - imagine and what it meant to them. Combining my skill set and culture with their ideas, this was our final concept…" - Danielle.
BELIEVE:
This illustration captures Whites Hill State College’s motto, ‘Believe’ and is an inspiring art piece that embodies the power of determination, resilience, and self-belief.
With its radiant rays, the sun symbolises hope, possibility, and the boundless potential within each student. Its illuminating light casts a glow, inspiring students to embrace their aspirations and have faith in their ability to achieve great things.
The hills represent growth, development, and the pursuit of dreams. They serve as a constant reminder of the strength and resilience possessed by students to overcome challenges and reach new heights in both their academic and personal endeavour.
‘Believe’ fosters a sense of empowerment, empathy, and community among students. It encourages them not only to believe in themselves but also to recognise and support the collective potential of their school. This artwork aims to cultivate a positive mindset, inspiring students to envision a bright future and encouraging them to take proactive steps in turning their dreams into reality.
ACHIEVE:
This illustration embodies Whites Hill State College’s motto, ‘Achieve.’
The sun symbolises a new day and fresh beginnings, radiating hope and potential.
The mountain symbolises the goals we strive to achieve. Above it, the patterns of people climbing the mountain illustrate the journey and the collective effort necessary to reach these aspirations, emphasising the strength of community in pursuit of success.
The intricate patterns below reflect the earth and the diverse goals individuals seek to accomplish, celebrating the unique paths each person takes in their quest for success.
Values
At Whites Hill State College, our CARES philosophy underpins the way we learn and work together every day. As part of our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) framework, CARES supports a positive, inclusive and respectful school culture where students are taught clear expectations and supported to thrive.
The CARES logo has been purposefully designed to reflect our unique College environment, supporting students from their early years of schooling through to graduation and their transition to employment or further study.
There are 14 petals, each representing the 13 years of schooling from Prep to Year 12, with a 14th petal representing our international students, who contribute significantly to the richness of our cultural understanding. Within each petal is a small hand nested within a larger hand, symbolising the supportive and nurturing relationships between older and younger students, as well as the care and guidance provided by staff.
The petals surround the Bunya nut, inspired by the Bunya trees growing in the central reserve of our vast and spacious grounds. Traditionally, Bunya trees were planted as a resource for future generations. They also represent the generations of siblings and families who have been, and continue to be, educated at the College.
The College also uses a koala mascot, Captain CARES, to reinforce these values, particularly for younger students. The koala was chosen in recognition of the generations of koala families that have lived on the College grounds, symbolising continuity, belonging and the deep connections that exist within our College community.