27 May 2019
“Taking on a group of over 100 people at the end of a full two-day workshop is no easy feat for the most seasoned of presenters, let alone a high school student.
Jade nailed it!
The Acknowledgement of Country Jade included at the start of her speech was met with applause. We are very accustomed to having a welcome or acknowledgement as part of our workplace, but through her understanding and sincerity Jade conveyed that the acknowledgement of country was not just words to her and the crowd was truly moved. She addressed some of the controversial issues we deal with in a mature way and brought us back to the basics of why National Parks matter.
It was a breath of fresh air to be reminded why we do what we do, and that it is truly a privilege to be entrusted to take care of our National Parks. It’s so easy for us to get stuck in finances, admin, spreadsheets and media, and we can lose sight of the big picture. Jade reminded us all of this.
I’m sure there were a few tears in the crowd as people reflected on their own young self and I have no doubt that most left refreshed and invigorated, reassured that we are fighting the good fight and that it’s worth it. Jade was a credit to herself, her family, her school and her community and it was a pleasure to have had her speak.”