Our year with Dr Miller

Xavier Blood & Zara Goodall-Wilson, The Geelong College Co-captains

As College Co-Captains, we’ve had the rare privilege of working closely with Dr Miller during his final year as Principal of The Geelong College - a milestone moment in the life of the school, and in our own leadership journeys.

As we prepare to bid farewell to Dr Miller, we’re honoured to share some reflections on what it has meant to work alongside him during this past year.

We’ve learnt and gained so much through our time with Dr Miller. From watching him lead, to watching him speak at College events, or during one-on-one interactions.

It has been during our leadership meetings that we’ve had the opportunity to connect with Dr Miller on a more personal level. Together with our Vice Co-Captains, Eliza Cullen and Shaun McKenna, we have met with Dr Miller, weekly at lunchtime.

Dr Miller’s ability to connect with students, staff, and guests alike through his humour, intelligence, and breadth of experience is something we truly admire and will carry with us into our own leadership journeys.

Our conversations have always been interesting, and have even led to passionate debates at times – but these always end with a laugh.

Dr Miller has imparted valuable leadership lessons through his daily actions, consistently leading by example.

His time at our school has not been defined solely by the decisions he has made, but by the standard he has set, the values he lives by, and the guidance he provides.

Through his unwavering integrity and commitment to each of us, Dr Miller has shaped not only our school’s environment but also the way we approach leadership in our own lives.

His tireless dedication to the school and his strong work ethic has motivated us all to give our best and to always strive to improve.

He has repeatedly emphasised the importance of setting clear goals and has continuously supported us on our journey towards achieving them. His strong morals guide all those around him to act with honesty and fairness, setting a powerful example of doing the right thing even in challenging situations.

He has consistently demonstrated the qualities of a positive role model, empowering us all to do the same.

We would also like to acknowledge the culture Dr Miller has been able to create throughout his time here at College.

Every year, the College progresses while maintaining the rich traditions and customs it is known for.

In our conversations with Dr Miller, he is always looking to better the school in any way possible, canvassing our thoughts on various issues, from sport chants to school productions, ensuring every single student feels a part of the College community. In doing so, we truly believe Dr Miller has played a significant role in fostering the inclusive culture College prides itself on.

Whilst it is one thing to just talk about creating a school that everyone feels they belong to, it is another to actually enact change that allows it to occur. Whether it is through sport, arts or academics, there is a place for everybody to feel at home, and this is the culture Dr Miller has nurtured.

We greatly appreciate the effort and care Dr Miller invests in every student, particularly the Year 12s.

This year, each of us has had the privilege of having a one-on-one conversation with him, where he has made the time to discuss our future aspirations and endeavours. During these meetings, Dr Miller not only listened attentively but also offered his loyal support, always asking how he could best assist us.

Throughout this year, he has been an active mentor, guiding and encouraging all of us on our individual journeys beyond school. We will be forever grateful for his sound advice and exceptional leadership.

It has been an honour to work so closely with Dr Miller, and we will always be thankful for the lessons we have learnt and the leadership we have witnessed. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours, and we appreciate all he has done for us, current and former students, and the school as a whole.