As National Reconciliation Week draws to a close, St Aloysius College Cronulla student Matilda Thearle has made history as the first Allied Health school-based Aboriginal trainee at Sydney Local Health District.
The Year 12 student is completing a Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance through placements at Balmain Hospital and Forest Lodge Child and Family Health Centre, gaining hands-on experience across a range of health disciplines.
The traineeship has seen Matilda named a finalist in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year category at the 2026 NSW Training Awards, with winners announced on 4 June.
"It's just so rewarding to be able to help patients get back to doing daily activities and to see them gain confidence," Matilda said. "My plan is to continue doing Allied Health Assistance as a job when I finish school."
A proud Badjiri woman whose family ties trace back to Cunnamulla in south-west Queensland, Matilda also travelled to Victoria last weekend to compete at the Australian Indigenous Surf Titles at Bells Beach, placing fourth in the Open Women's division.
"I feel really proud that I can represent at such a high level, not only as an athlete but also as a proud young Aboriginal woman," she said.
For Matilda, Indigenous sporting events are about far more than competition. Through them she has built friendships, strengthened her connection to culture and gained a deeper understanding of Aboriginal communities across Australia.
Participating in smoking ceremonies before competitions connects her to the land and waterways where she surfs.
Away from competition, she also coaches surfers of all ages at Cronulla Surfing Academy.
Yvette Kennedy, Instructional Leader Pathways and Partnerships at St Aloysius College said Matilda had shaped her educational journey with real purpose.
"She has taken ownership of her HSC with determination and developed a clear vision for her future. As a proud Badjiri woman, she carries her culture with strength and authenticity and is a wonderful role model for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people."
Matilda credits strong mentorship for helping her balance national-level sport, vocational training and Year 12. Her mentor at Sydney Local Health District, Dean Ahearne, encourages her cultural engagement and sporting pursuits, while teacher Brendon Perkins helped her deepen her connection to her mob and her identity.
To other young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, her message is direct:
"Don't be afraid to feel you're not good enough. Through programs like these you always have support and mentorship to help you succeed."
The biggest influence on her journey, she says, is her mother.
"My mum has been the biggest influence by supporting and encouraging me to do my best and to have lots of fun."
After finishing Year 12, Matilda hopes to pursue further study in occupational therapy, helping others build confidence and independence, just as her mentors have helped her.
Photo credit – Sydney Local Health District
