In a powerful moment of pride and achievement, Jenadel Lane, an Aboriginal deputy principal at Dubbo Senior College, watched her daughter, Retori Lane, complete her HSC.
This milestone marks not only a personal triumph for their family but also reflects the broader success of Aboriginal students in New South Wales, with the state celebrating its highest-ever enrolment of Aboriginal students in Year 12 this year.
Ms Lane, a proud Gamilaroi woman from Walgett, has been deeply involved in education for nearly two decades.
As deputy principal for the past two years, she has worked tirelessly to ensure that Aboriginal students feel supported and empowered in their educational journey.
"It's been a long journey," Ms Lane said.
"Being in education for 19 years, I’ve seen how important it is to have role models who represent our community, and I feel privileged to work with students who are breaking barriers."
Her daughter Retori found her own inspiration in her mother’s journey.
"It was tough," Retori said of her HSC experience.
"But seeing my mum push through so many challenges really motivated me. She made it, so I knew I could too."
Blak educators making a difference
At Dubbo Senior College, the efforts of dedicated Blak educators like Jenadel have led to a record-breaking number of Aboriginal students graduating this year, with 75 students among the cohort—a testament to the power of community support and culturally sensitive education.
"We’ve worked hard to create a welcoming environment for Aboriginal students," she told NITV.
“Each student is case-managed by Aboriginal staff, and this personal connection has made a huge difference. When students feel supported and connected to their culture, they thrive academically," she said.
Molly, Jenadel and Lily celebrate their HSC results.
Their success is part of a record-breaking year, with 75 Aboriginal students graduating - the largest group in the school's history.
Molly received a Band 6 in Community and Family Studies, surpassing her expectations.
"My parents were really proud, and I was pleased with myself too," she said.
Lily achieved Band 6s in both CAFs and Human Services, her favourite subject.
"I was really happy to get both Band 6s," she shared.
Both students credited the school’s supportive community and mentorship program, which provided resources, encouragement, and additional tutoring.
"When someone was feeling down, we all came together to lift them up," Lily said.
Molly plans to study Exercise and Sports Science, while Lily is considering nursing. Both encourage other Aboriginal students to pursue their dreams and never give up.
"Always go for your goals and never look back," Molly urged.
"Hard work pays off. Just keep pushing and seek out the help you need to get where you want to go," Lily said.
Jenadel’s leadership has been pivotal in pushing for the development of an Aboriginal languages course at the school, which will begin next year.
This initiative aims to further empower Aboriginal students by deepening their connection to their culture.
"It’s about giving them the tools to feel proud of their identity," Jenadel said.
Retori, who plans to study a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Indigenous Studies at Macquarie University, is a perfect example of how strong cultural leadership can shape the aspirations of young Aboriginal people.
"It feels incredible to know that I’m going to uni, following in the footsteps of my mum and others who’ve made it," she said with a smile.
As the mother-daughter duo celebrates this milestone, their story serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural mentorship, self-determination, and community support in shaping the future of Aboriginal education.
Jenadel’s pride in her daughter’s success is shared by the entire community, as they continue to break barriers and create opportunities for other Aboriginal students across the state.
