Captains' Corner | Cooper Dooley, College Captain 2025

For those I haven’t had the chance to meet yet, my name is Cooper Dooley, and I am honoured to represent Terrace as College Captain for 2025.

A little bit about myself – family, food and football are the things that sum me up best. Otherwise, you’ll often find me in the great outdoors, whether it’s taking a wrong turn and finding myself snowboarding down a black run or throwing around the frisbee with my family of six.

My Terrace journey began in Year 7 in 2020, and since then, Terrace has been like a second home to me. I will never forget the way Sam Dutton, College Captain at the time, greeted me and introduced himself on my first day at Terrace. He made me feel welcome and a part of the Terrace Family. To this day, I appreciate the inclusive community fostered by the many generations of Seniors and staff.

I have also experienced this welcoming atmosphere across all aspects of College life, from our music ensembles to our sporting teams. Last Friday, the College competed in the GPS Track and Field out at QSAC. The day began with the school sending off our athletes with a spirited tunnel from College Hall. What struck me was the energy and enthusiasm with which the supporters barracked for our boys at the stadium. I was proud of the many athletes who gave their all at Track and Field, with some memorable performances including Ben Hooper, who set the tone by giving Terrace an early win at the 1500m event, before later winning his 800m and placing third in the 400m event.

As we sent the current cohort of Year 12s through the tunnel before their first external exam, I reflected on what a great year it has been. They have truly lived their motto of Carrying the Crest forward, leading the College and fostering school spirit, especially through the highly anticipated and successful Gorilla Gatherings. On behalf of the rest of the Terrace Family, we wish the Year 12 cohort the best of luck.

Though it feels as if it will be challenging to continue the strong legacy that the current Seniors and Captains have cultivated, I am confident that, with Vice Captains Lachie Cooper, Rehan De Livera, Rupert McGrath and Ollie Nasser, we will be able to Carry the Crest forward into GT150.

Just like Sam, in my first year at Terrace, I hope to uphold the inclusive and welcoming culture that resonates strongly with the Terrace Family. So please feel free to come and say 'hello' – I look forward to meeting you.