Matthew Flinders Anglican College graduate Kristina Lane has been awarded an esteemed TJ Ryan Medal, which recognises her as one of Queensland’s top students and includes a $10,000 tertiary scholarship.
Now studying Commerce/Advanced Studies (Chemistry Major) University of Sydney, Kristina last year graduated from Flinders, located in Buderim on the Sunshine Coast, with the top OP 1 score and as one of the College Duces.
The Queensland government only awards up to 10 TJ Ryan medals each year to support exemplary Queensland students who demonstrate academic excellence as well as outstanding leadership in their school and community.
Two other Flinders graduates, Peter Tilleard (Class of 2013) and Amelia Johnstone (Class of 2000), were also recognised with TJ Ryan medals, which supported them to pursue their respective studies in Medicine and Economics.
Flinders Principal Stuart Meade said Kristina should be proud that her efforts had been recognised through this reputable award.
“To be selected for a TJ Ryan medal amidst the many academically bright and community-minded students across Queensland is an incredible honour, and we congratulate Kristina for her commitment to excellence in learning and life,” Stuart said.
“At Flinders, our aim is to support every student to explore their interests, reach their potential, lead with confidence, and find a way to contribute to making the world a better place,” he said.
“Kristina, along with Peter and Amelia, have certainly demonstrated they have the character, skills and passion to pursue their career ambitions, and the desire to improve the lives of others.
“Kirstina made the effort to embrace every opportunity available to her while at Flinders, including to play in our Firsts Touch Football team and to play at a high level on our tennis team.
“As College Captain, Kristina was instrumental in a number of community service projects, including the inaugural Buderim Foundation Community Movie Night, and also led our Flinders Environmental Committee.
“Kristina also completed the challenging Duke of Edinburgh program and achieved a Bronze medal for her efforts.”
Kristina says her focus during her senior years at Flinders was to enjoy the many opportunities across academics, sport, community service and leadership, which helped her avoid stress and overwhelm.
“Having a balanced schedule, where I was not solely focused on academics, definitely enabled me to achieve my top OP score,” Kristina said.
“Doing physical activity through sport straight after school allowed me to exert energy physically so that when I arrived home I was then able to focus on my studies and work efficiently and effectively,” she said.
“I also appreciated that my teachers supported me to achieve my best, so I encourage students to go to their teachers and ask for help if they are struggling with schoolwork or friendships.”
The TJ Ryan Memorial Medal represents a long-standing tradition of recognising educational achievement in Queensland.
Since its commencement in 1927, the award has existed over more than 50 years, with a pause between 1970 and 1993.
The award is a memorial to Thomas Joseph Ryan, former teacher, barrister and Queensland Premier (1915 - 1919). It has also been known as the Premier's Awards and the Lilley Medal.
Learn more about Flinders' Academic Results.
