27 June 2024
On 27 June, the prestigious Gerdy Jevtic Medal for 2024 was awarded to Fahan School Alumna, Flight Lieutenant Emily Renshaw (Class of 2013) at this year's Travers Morphett Lecture. Emily addressed senior students, alumni, parents, and teachers, sharing her journey as a Pilot and Qualified Flying Instructor in the Royal Australian Air Force.
Emily's speech resonated with the audience as she recounted her decade-long career in the Air Force, including her current overseas deployment with the New Zealand Defence Force. Her address emphasised the importance of resilience, kindness, and bold living—traits she attributed to the influence of her mother and former teachers at Fahan.
"Live boldly and have the courage to follow your dreams, even if this may be different to the path of others. Don't be afraid of mistakes, learn from them," Emily advised the students. She encouraged them to step out of their comfort zones, embrace opportunities, and support their peers while pursuing their aspirations.
Fahan School Principal, Meg Lawson, expressed her admiration for Emily's accomplishments: "I know we all feel honoured to have heard Emily's story, which speaks clearly of her courage, determination and character. She is an exceptional role model for our students, demonstrating to them someone who has worked hard to forge their own path, especially in such a male-dominated organisation."
The Lecture left a lasting impression on the students. Year 10 student, Ivy Dickson, highlighted Emily's advice on self-encouragement: "Emily spoke about how 'you have to be your own best friend'. She explained that just like you would uplift and encourage a friend who is experiencing self-doubt, you need to do the same for yourself when you're feeling uncertain.”
Year 11 student, Ava McGlone, noted the unique impact of this year's Lecture: "This year's TM Lecture was particularly memorable. Lieutenant Emily Renshaw delivered an inspiring speech that kept the audience fully engaged from start to finish. The values she discussed resonated not just with aspiring Air Force pilots, but with every single person in the room.”
Emily's speech touched on her experiences as one of few women in her field, working in an organisation where female representation has only recently reached just below 30%. She shared personal anecdotes, including challenging moments during her pilot training and the responsibility she felt as an aircraft captain.
The Lecture also highlighted the importance of loyalty and teamwork, drawing parallels between Emily's experiences in the Air Force and her time at Fahan School. She credited her time on the School's rowing squad for instilling a sense of fierce loyalty and teamwork that has served her well in her military career.
In addition to Emily's inspiring address, the event featured the presentation of the Pride of Fahan Alumni Award to Year 11 student, Nina McLean, by Fahan School Alumni Association Co-President, Fiona Pringle Jones.
The Travers Morphett Lecture, an annual event at Fahan School, continues to bring distinguished alumni back to inspire current students. Flight Lieutenant Emily's presentation this year not only celebrated her achievements but also reinforced the values of resilience, kindness, and bold living. Her journey from Fahan student to decorated Air Force officer serves as a powerful example of the potential that lies within each student at Fahan.
