Karratha Senior High School year 12 student, Ruby Wood-Hill, has been awarded the 2024 Walkington Award for her outstanding academic achievements, contributions to her school, and significant involvement in the community.
Now in its 41st year, the Walkington Award is presented annually to a City of Karratha Year 12 student to support their tertiary studies at a recognised institution. This year, the prize was increased to $10,000, reflecting the rising cost of education and the council's commitment to supporting young leaders.
Ruby plans to use the award to pursue a Bachelor of Biological Science, with a focus on researching climate solutions. She has already been accepted into a prestigious residential college and hopes to continue her studies at the University of Western Australia.
Her academic achievements include the Highest Academic Achievement Awards for Year 11 ATAR Biology and ATAR English. Beyond the classroom, she has been actively involved in local sports such as water polo, and was awarded best referee on ground at the North West Soccer Championships.
She has also volunteered with IF Foundation a local drama group, being highly involved in annual ocean cleanups through Keep Australia Beautiful, and her leadership was recognised by her peers as one of four Honorary Watch Leaders to take over the STS Leeuwin tall-ship for the day and sailed her into Exmouth.
City of Karratha Mayor Daniel Scott said the Walkington Award has a proud history of recognising students who excel academically, contribute to their communities, and participate in extracurricular activities.
"This year’s candidates were some of the strongest in recent memory, with 13 applicants in total. The judges remarked on the exceptional calibre of the top three finalists, but Ruby stood out with the highest overall scores from all judges combined," Cr Scott said.
"Her excellent grades, impressive school contributions, and significant involvement in the community made her the unanimous choice. Ruby has shown exceptional leadership and dedication.
"We wish Ruby all the best in her future studies and look forward to seeing the positive impact she will make in the world."
Walkington Award Winner Ruby Wood-Hill said it was an honour to be recognised with the Walkington.
“There were so many strong candidates this year, and I feel like we were all very deserving of this award, so it was a very pleasant surprise to be chosen as this year’s recipient,” Ruby said.
“I am incredibly honoured and very thankful for this acknowledgement and the opportunities it will provide.”
A special thank you goes out to our esteemed judging panel including representatives from North Regional TAFE, Pilbara Kimberley University Centre, Karratha Senior High School, Roebourne District High School and St Luke's College.
