General News
18 December, 2025
College duces revealed for 2025
STUDENTS across the region breathed a sigh of relief as ATAR scores rolled in.
Molly Goddard was named Mortlake College dux while Chelsea McConnell was named Terang College dux.
Molly said she was “very honoured” to have achieved the highest score among the school’s graduating students.
“I’m excited to have done this,” she said.
“I’m excited for my future and what that means for me to get into different universities, and to move forward looking into future education of some sort.”
Molly said she had woken up bright and early to see the results alongside her parents as they have been her biggest supporters.
“I sat with them and we got all snuggled in to see the results,” she said.
“It was a really nice way to find out because they were so excited, which just made it better.
“They were so proud, giddy, and telling me that I had worked so hard.
“There was a lot of hours studying but I just wanted to know that, when I got my results, I had done everything possible to give myself a good chance to get into university.
“It was a lot of late nights but I’m glad I did it – it was definitely worth it.”
Mortlake College principal Linda Mooseek said she was proud of what Molly and the Mortlake College senior students had accomplished throughout the year.
“Molly has worked really, really hard,” she said.
“She deserves this – she’s worked hard and this result hasn’t just fallen into her lap.
“She’s been doing VCE subjects since Year Nine, has worked hard and has got the score she needs to move forward.
“The message to all our students has been you get back what you put in – if you want the big results, you have to work for it.”
Terang College dux Chelsea McConnell received an ATAR of 86.7, and will now set out the process of figuring out the next steps of her journey.
She said she was proud to be a Terang College graduate, believing the school provided her with all the resources and support necessary for academic success.
“Terang College sets up you for whatever you want to pursue,” she said.
Terang College principal Kath Tanner congratulated Chelsea on her success, saying her growth and dedication was evident throughout the course of the year.
“We are very proud of Chelsea and the score she attained,” she said.
“She worked diligently and has taken on feedback.
“I think is an amazing opportunity in smaller schools, where students are able to get with individual support.”
Mrs Tanner congratulated the cohort of Year 12 students on completing their high school education, saying she was proud to see so many have positioned themselves well for the next stage of their journey.
“We are proud of their efforts and their achievements this year,” she said.
“While the ATAR is important, and is a number to measure their success, doesn’t define what happens next and what pathway opens up.
“Many of our students have already lined up apprenticeships and or have pathways offered.
“While the release of ATAR results is an exciting day for some, lots of our students have the next part of their pathway mapped out.
“We believe that is the most important thing.”