St Raphael’s Catholic School student Laura Price has been recognised on a national stage, receiving the prestigious Order of Australia Youth Community Service Award for 2025. The Year 12 student accepted the award at Government House in Sydney, where her years of dedication to volunteer work and leadership were celebrated. Laura has been part of St Raphael’s Catholic School for 13 years, attending from Kindergarten through to Year 12. Throughout that time, she has consistently embodied the values of service and community that her school strives to instil. “Throughout my time at St Raphael’s Catholic School, I’ve been dedicated to service and community involvement and I am deeply grateful for the support from my school and the Cowra community in shaping my commitment to making a positive difference,” she said. Her award recognises an impressive range of community contributions, from her volunteer work at parish and local events to leadership roles in youth programs across the region. This visit to Government House marked the third time Laura has attended an official occasion there, though she said this particular event stood out as the most memorable. “This was my third visit to Government House, and each experience has been incredibly meaningful, but this occasion was particularly unforgettable,” she said. She described meeting other young Australians who shared her passion for service. “I had the opportunity to meet other young people who are making a real difference in their communities, and hearing their stories inspired new ideas and renewed my own commitment to service,” Laura said. Laura also had the privilege of reconnecting with the Honourable Margaret Beazley, Governor of New South Wales, for the third time. “It was also a privilege to meet the Honourable Margaret Beazley again,” she said. “This marked the third time we’ve met, and she remembered me from previous occasions, something I found truly humbling.” She admitted she felt honoured to be recognised alongside such an outstanding group of young leaders. “The standard of the other award recipients was exceptionally high, and it made me feel deeply proud and grateful to be recognised,” she said. In her reflections, Laura expressed sincere appreciation to those who supported and guided her journey through school and community leadership. “Thank you so much for believing in me and taking the time to nominate me as I know you’re a very busy person,” she said. “Your support meant more than you know and made all the difference in helping me receive this award.” “Thank you for your encouragement and guidance throughout my senior years at St Raphael’s.” “Your support has made a lasting impact on me, and I am deeply appreciative.” “Thank you so much again for this opportunity.” Laura’s achievement is being celebrated not only as a personal milestone but also as a reflection of the values of St Raphael’s Catholic School. The school community praised her as a shining example of the strength of a K–12 Catholic education, with her service-minded leadership setting a standard for future students to follow.
