After leaving William Clarke College in 2002, Sarah worked in hospitality in Australia and overseas before commencing a Commerce/Marketing degree at the University of Western Sydney. Early in her studies a horrific car accident resulted in injuries that left her bed ridden and facing a long period of rehabilitation. Despite these challenges, she completed her degree in 2007 and married in 2008. Shortly after her marriage, she relocated with her husband to Port Hedland in Western Australia.

“Since moving to Port Hedland, I have tried to live life to the full by immersing myself in the local community,” said Sarah. God has His hand on me and took care of me through my recovery from my accident and since then I have been making the most of every opportunity presented to me.  

“Each day I try to put my faith into action by helping those in need in our local community. Our church is focused upon serving our local community and I have been helping co-ordinate teams to assist the local Aboriginal people and surrounding communities with the essentials for life (food, clothing and prayer) as well as putting on family events in partnership with the local police and youth agencies. It’s all about sharing the love of Jesus.”

The $2500 Sarah received as Alumnus of the Year for 2011 was divided between:

the Aboriginal outreach in which she is involved in Port Hedland

support for the education of children in an orphanage in Lombok, Indonesia

purchasing an incubator for a village chicken farm in Tanzania.

“I treasured my days and experiences at William Clarke College. From the friends that I made, to the teachers I befriended and the lessons I learned. I had some of the fondest memories of my life at the College.

“It has been wonderful to have my work acknowledged and supported by the College and I would encourage other Alumni involved in community-focused initiatives to apply for this award. It is so encouraging to hear the stories from ex-students who are making a difference in the world and in the lives of individuals. The College’s generosity will allow you to expand your influence and the great works you are doing just as it has done for me.”