At The Lakes College, we often speak of the learning journey of our students, one that begins in the early years, grows stronger through thirteen years of schooling, and continues long after graduation. It is a journey that goes beyond academics, it is the shaping of character, the building of courage, and the discovery of purpose.
This year, we proudly honour Opal Francis (Class of 2019) as the 2025 TLC Alumni of the Year – a graduate who has taken the light of learning beyond our gates and used it to brighten the world.
A Journey Shaped at TLC
During her time at the College, Opal was deeply involved in all aspects of school life. She served as Vice Captain, Arts Prefect, and was a passionate and energetic member of Nyani House. She threw herself into opportunities ranging from cross-country and rowing to music, art, and especially drama – where she found a creative home in Strike Theatre from Year 8 onwards.
What stands out is not just the breadth of her involvement, but the lessons she learned through it: the value of trying, the courage to risk failure, and the joy of discovering who you are within a supportive community. Speaking at our Scholars Assembly last year, Opal shared that she made mistakes, she wasn’t Dux, and she didn’t leave school with all the answers. But she did graduate with a strong sense of self, a passion for people, and the confidence to ask: “How can I help?”
Discovering Purpose Through Service
It was during a TLC work experience placement at Teenage Adventure Camp Queensland – a camp for young people living with disabilities – that Opal discovered her passion for service. This experience revealed the impact of helping others with empathy and dignity, inspiring her to pursue a career in health.
After years of rigorous study and clinical placements, Opal became a qualified Occupational Therapist specialising in Mental Health. She now works with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, and uncertainty, helping them regain hope, agency, and quality of life.
Continuing to Give Back
Even while building her professional career, Opal has remained an active and valued member of the TLC community. For the past five years, she has been a key contributor to Strike Theatre – writing award-winning scripts, directing performances, mentoring students, and creating safe spaces for young people to explore their creativity and identity.
Through her work, Opal lives out the TLC values every day:
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Faith & Hope – Bringing light to those facing mental health challenges.
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Love – Mentoring and empowering others with care and compassion.
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Courage – Stepping into emotionally demanding roles with integrity.
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Community – Building strong, supportive networks both within and beyond TLC.
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Justice – Advocating for those whose voices often go unheard.
A True Lakes Learner for Life
Opal’s journey is a powerful reminder that schools don’t just prepare students for university – they prepare them for life. As she committed at her Valedictory Service, Opal has carried the light of TLC with her, and through her actions, she continues to amplify that light in the world.
On behalf of the entire TLC community, we congratulate Opal Francis – 2025 TLC Alumni of the Year – and thank her for the way she inspires, leads, and serves.