The leadership style of Downlands College Captains Eloise Tighe and Dominic Brennan leaves no room for elitism, and heavily reflects the values embedded by their Downlands education.
Third generation Downlander Eloise lives in Toowoomba and has attended Downlands since Year 8. She believes that communication is the key to effective leadership. “We don’t want to tell other students what to do. We want to listen and be their voice — in the appropriate forum,” says Eloise. Time management skills and a hardworking attitude have seen her receive multiple academic awards, play touch football and compete in swimming at a national level. With a special interest in chemistry and biology, Eloise hopes to pursue a career in zoology or marine biology.
Dominic started at Downlands in Year 9 after moving from Charters Towers with his family. His family’s history with the college, including his grandfather Jim Brennan having taught at the College from 1960 to 1963 and 1972 to 1973, led Dominic to feel a special bond with Downlands. “I instantly felt a connection with the school and I knew from the beginning that it was where I belonged,” he says. Dominic has a keen interest in music and rugby, was Age Champion in the 2017 cross country, supports the Highfields RSL by playing The Last Post at functions, and played the lead male role in the college musical, Crazy for You. Dominic’s interest in the health field has inspired his desire to pursue a career in this area.
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