PHOTO: Thirteen students from Year 12 at Gilroy Catholic College in Castle Hill have been offered early placements into undergraduate degrees at Macquarie University for 2019.
There are global leaders in the making at Gilroy Catholic College in Castle Hill with a number of students receiving early offers to commence their undergraduate degrees at Macquarie University in 2019.
Macquarie University’s award-winning Global Leadership program provides early offers for students who have made an active and significant contribution to society at large, as well as those who have shown initiative and commitment throughout their studies.
Liam Maher from Year 12 was among the students who applied for the program, receiving an offer to study a Bachelor of Business Administration with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours). He described the offer as humbling and rewarding, and while he has secured an option for tertiary study, he noted he still “plans on making the most of the HSC and aiming for a high ATAR.”
"It is humbling to have received an early offer and to know I have secured an option for tertiary study, but also that my work as a part of the College’s various social justice initiatives has paid off.”
“Gilroy has always encouraged me to help others and to extend myself where possible, and I’m glad that this advice has been so beneficial for my post-school options,” he said.
A total of thirteen students have received early-entry offers from the university to study courses from psychology through to engineering.
| Student | Course accepted to |
| Liam Maher | Bachelor of Business Administration with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) |
| Benjamin Zadro | Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Majoring in Software Engineering |
| Yehan Peiris | Bachelor of Commerce, Professional Accounting with a Bachelor of Business Analytics |
| Yali Peiris | Bachelor of Engineering and Commerce with a Bachelor of Applied Finance and Commerce (Professional Accounting) |
| Jonathan Derwin | Bachelor of Business Administration |
| Flynn Hume | Bachelor of Advanced Science |
| Justin Yu | Bachelor of Advanced Science |
| Jarryd Browne | Bachelor of Business Administration |
| Genevieve Lee | Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) with a Bachelor of Law |
| Alexandra Mercouris | |
| Luke Meredith | |
| Nicholas Collyer | |
| Sina Aghamofid |
Students accepted into the Global Leadership Program at Macquarie University also have the opportunity to participate in special events which focus on leadership and making positive contributions to society while tackling global challenges.
Acting Principal Jaie Skinner said the College is extremely proud of these hard-working students, and is absolutely thrilled for the students themselves and their families. “Having such a large number of Gilroy students accepted into the Global Leadership Program at Macquarie University is a sign of the talents, values and dedication to the betterment of our broader community all Gilroy graduates posses. We cannot wait to see what their very bright futures hold.”
Those who successfully complete their undergraduate degrees through the Global Leadership Program also receive a reference letter and a notation on their academic transcript, providing a competitive edge in the global employment market.
This is an amazing achievement which recognises the academic, leadership and social justice efforts of students throughout their schooling journey and we wish all of these students the best of luck with their tertiary studies.
Instagram | Gilroy
More News
28 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Yesterday at recess, Year 10 and Year 11 students took part in an Oztag charity match to raise awareness about the growing issues surrounding men’s mental health. Students and staff gathered in the glorious sunshine to cheer on both teams and show their support for this important cause. Congratulations to Year 11, who claimed victory with a score of 3-2. Well done to all the students involved for taking the initiative and helping to shine a light on men’s mental health! #movember #gilroyvalues
26 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Yesterday, the Gilroy Catholic College 2025/26 Leaders were officially commissioned—marking the beginning of bold ideas, fresh energy, and a shared sense of purpose. In her address, College Principal Ms Merryweather reminded our community that “Leadership is about service to others to build a better community.” She reflected further that, as Catholics, “we have the greatest model of leadership in Jesus Christ… Jesus Christ offers us a picture of leadership that should guide you in all you do over the next year.” Assistant Principal Mrs Rodriguez highlighted the significance of student voice, noting that “Student leadership plays an important role in our school—not just for those who hold formal positions, like the students we will soon acknowledge—but across every level of our community.” Our 2025/26 leaders step forward as the very leaders Pope Francis calls us to be: “leaders of thought, leaders of action, leaders of joy, leaders of hope, leaders of the construction of a better world.” Congratulations—and every blessing—to all our 2025/26 student leaders!
25 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Following their participation in the Walk the Talk Workshops run by Women’s Community Shelters, the Gilroy Catholic College students felt inspired to make a meaningful contribution. Throughout last week, our student leaders organised a series of activities and competitions to raise awareness about domestic violence and highlight the vital role of women’s shelters. The initiative concluded on Friday, when students and staff were invited to wear something orange—the colour symbolising the campaign to end violence against women. Ella, Year 12, shared: “Last Friday, students generously donated items to our Women’s Community Shelter Hampers as part of the ‘Walk the Talk’ initiative against domestic violence. To show their support, students were also encouraged to wear an item of orange, helping to raise awareness. In total, we donated 854 items, which will be delivered in the coming weeks to Beecroft House. Thank you to the Gilroy Community for your care and generosity!”
24 Nov 2025
From Facebook
We’re excited to announce a special OzTag charity match taking place this Thursday between Year 10 and Year 11! This event is more than a friendly competition — it’s a chance for our school community to come together and raise awareness for Men’s Health, with a particular focus on mental health. Many men face challenges silently, and events like this help spark important conversations and remind us to check in on the people around us. May the best year group win!
24 Nov 2025
From Facebook
21 Nov 2025
From Facebook
See what Gilroy Catholic College students think about their experience playing PDSSSC Badminton!
21 Nov 2025
From Facebook
High Tea Success! Last week, our Year 11 Hospitality students treated College staff to a wonderful High Tea — and what an experience it was! The students showcased their amazing skills in food preparation and service, with every dish looking and tasting absolutely delicious. All of it was delivered with big smiles and plenty of warmth! The students truly went above and beyond to make the event special. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to build confidence, show off their talents, and gain real-world experience as they work towards their future careers in hospitality.
20 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Gilroy College Adventurous Journey — 12–14 November 2026 Last week, Gilroy Catholic College students spent a rewarding three days in the Lower Hawkesbury area completing their Duke of Edinburgh Silver Qualifying Journey. Starting at Cowan, the group hiked to Brooklyn, paddled to Patonga, and then returned to finish at Parsley Bay via Refuge Bay. Thanks to good preparation and expert navigation, they kept on track throughout the expedition. The students embraced the challenge of the 15 km paddle to the finish — half of which was against an outgoing tide! Congratulations to all participants for their teamwork, resilience, and determination.
19 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Recently, our students had the amazing opportunity to step into the world of the Royal Australian Navy and experience what it’s like to serve at sea! The day began at the Navy Life Expo 25 at the ICC in Darling Harbour, where students explored interactive and hands-on exhibits showcasing life and careers in the Australian Defence Force. From testing out flight simulators, practising sutures in an artificial limb to learning about the technology behind nuclear submarines, there was no shortage of excitement. Students also had the chance to chat directly with serving Navy personnel, gaining valuable insights, advice, and a glimpse into the teamwork, discipline, and adventure that comes with life in the Navy. Afterwards, students boarded the impressive HMAS Canberra, one of Australia’s largest naval ships, for an exclusive behind the scenes guided tour. They explored the bridge with the ship’s senior pilot, discovered how signalling systems work when communications are cut, and saw up close the enormous engines that power the ship. The sheer size of the vessel meant we definitely got all our steps in that day! It was an unforgettable experience, inspiring our students to think about the diverse career pathways and skills that can come from a future in the Australian Defence Force. A huge thank you to the Royal Australian Navy and all those involved for such a memorable and inspiring day. #CareersSuccess #RANLifeExpo #HMASCanberra #CSPD
18 Nov 2025
Western Sydney Catholic Schools hold the phone
Student mobile phone use will be banned across 80 Western Sydney Catholic schools from the beginning of the 2026 school year. The restriction presents a positive opportunity to enhance student outcomes, both in academic excellence and wellbeing.
18 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Gilroy Catholic College Year 7 and 8 students recently took part in their PDHPE Swim Days—a fun, active and educational experience focused on developing vital water-survival skills. Throughout the program, students practised a range of survival strokes and rescue techniques designed to equip them with the knowledge and confidence to respond safely in aquatic environments. The day also offered an excellent opportunity for students to strengthen their teamwork, build confidence and develop essential water-safety awareness. Most importantly, students enjoyed themselves while learning how to feel safer and more capable in the water.
17 Nov 2025
From Facebook
17 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Congratulations to Helena – Representing Australia at the ICU World Championships! We are pleased to share that Gilroy Catholic College Year 11 student, Helena, has been selected to join the Australian National Cheerleading Team. She will proudly represent Australia at the ICU World Cheerleading Championships in Orlando, Florida, in April next year. This is an incredible achievement and a tremendous honour, offering Helena the opportunity to train and compete at an elite international level alongside athletes from around the world. Helena is extremely proud to represent both her country and the Gilroy Catholic College community through this remarkable experience. We congratulate Helena on this outstanding accomplishment and wish her every success as she prepares to take the world stage!
14 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Walk the Talk Awards Night at NSW Parliament House Year 11 Students, Ella, Nicholas, Brayden, and Sam proudly represented Gilroy Catholic College at the Walk the Talk Awards Night held recently at NSW Parliament House. Gilroy was recognised for our involvement in the Walk the Talk program—part of a pioneering Respectful Relationships initiative run by Women’s Community Shelters—as well as for our ongoing support of Beecroft House, a Women’s Community Shelter. We are especially proud to be the first (and only) school supporting this vital service. Our students reflected on the evening, saying: “It was an enlightening and eye-opening experience that instilled in us a feeling of hope for the future, seeing so many young people dedicated to improving our world. Meeting people from other schools and learning about the initiatives they have participated in inspired us to think about more ways we can make a difference as a school community.” #walkthetalk #gilroyvalues #beecrofthouse #womenscommunityshelters #CSPD
13 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Bible Studies Off to an Encouraging Start! We are delighted to share our excitement about the launch of our new Bible Studies initiative! It has been wonderful to see so many new faces at the sessions — including students who have not previously attended iLive or Prayer Group. A special thank you goes to our Year 12 students, Sophie McMahon and Marcus Thian, who kindly returned to lead discussion groups. This has been a truly encouraging beginning, and we’re looking forward to seeing how Bible Studies continues to grow and flourish in the weeks ahead.