Stories and highlights
There's always something to celebrate at our school! From exciting events to proud moments and everyday wins, here are some of our highlights.
A year at our school
Swimming Carnival
Held at Oak Flats Pool in the first weeks of Term 1, our annual Swimming Carnival is a whole-school event that sets a positive tone for the year. Students enjoy a mix of competitive races and fun novelty events, while Year 12 run the ever-popular BBQ. Two absolute highlights are the Staff vs Students swimming relay — always hotly contested — and the hilarious OFHS Belly Flop Competition, which never fails to get the crowd cheering. It’s a day filled with house spirit, laughter, and plenty of memories — a great way to celebrate the start of the school year together.
Held at Oak Flats Pool in the first weeks of Term 1, our annual Swimming Carnival is a whole-school event that sets a positive tone for the year. Students enjoy a mix of competitive races and fun novelty events, while Year 12 run the ever-popular BBQ. Two absolute highlights are the Staff vs Students swimming relay — always hotly contested — and the hilarious OFHS Belly Flop Competition, which never fails to get the crowd cheering. It’s a day filled with house spirit, laughter, and plenty of memories — a great way to celebrate the start of the school year together.
Harmony Day
In Term 1 (March), we celebrate one of our most loved traditions — Harmony Day. The day begins with a whole-school assembly, followed by our popular World Food Tour, where each faculty prepares and serves dishes from different countries. Students love sampling the food while reflecting on the meaning of harmony and inclusion. With around 10% of our students speaking a language other than English at home, 15% identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, and many students who bring the richness of neurodiverse perspectives, Oak Flats High School proudly reflects the best of a diverse and inclusive Australia. Harmony Day is a highlight of our year, reminding us of the importance of respect, belonging, and unity.
In Term 1 (March), we celebrate one of our most loved traditions — Harmony Day. The day begins with a whole-school assembly, followed by our popular World Food Tour, where each faculty prepares and serves dishes from different countries. Students love sampling the food while reflecting on the meaning of harmony and inclusion. With around 10% of our students speaking a language other than English at home, 15% identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, and many students who bring the richness of neurodiverse perspectives, Oak Flats High School proudly reflects the best of a diverse and inclusive Australia. Harmony Day is a highlight of our year, reminding us of the importance of respect, belonging, and unity.
Cross Country
Usually held towards the end of Term 1 or the beginning of Term 2, our annual Cross Country takes place along the beautiful shores of Lake Illawarra. Students take on the course in the morning sun, running or walking alongside friends while enjoying the fresh air and school spirit. The event is about more than just competition — it’s a chance to challenge yourself, support your house, and celebrate being active together. If the weather allows, the day finishes with an amazing Colour Run — an absolute highlight for students and a fun way to end the carnival.
Usually held towards the end of Term 1 or the beginning of Term 2, our annual Cross Country takes place along the beautiful shores of Lake Illawarra. Students take on the course in the morning sun, running or walking alongside friends while enjoying the fresh air and school spirit. The event is about more than just competition — it’s a chance to challenge yourself, support your house, and celebrate being active together. If the weather allows, the day finishes with an amazing Colour Run — an absolute highlight for students and a fun way to end the carnival.
Athletics Carnival
At the start of Term 2, our whole school heads to the Croome Road Sporting Complex for the annual Athletics Carnival. With the Illawarra escarpment as a stunning backdrop, students take part in a full day of competition and fun — from javelin, discus, high jump and long jump, to casual ball games with friends. House pride is on full display, with plenty of cheering and encouragement from the sidelines. The Year 12 BBQ and a coffee van keep everyone fed and warm as the cooler weather sets in. A highlight of the day is always the Staff vs Students relay, where the whole school gathers to watch the fun and see if the students can outrun their teachers! The Athletics Carnival is a true favourite on our calendar, blending healthy competition with school spirit.
At the start of Term 2, our whole school heads to the Croome Road Sporting Complex for the annual Athletics Carnival. With the Illawarra escarpment as a stunning backdrop, students take part in a full day of competition and fun — from javelin, discus, high jump and long jump, to casual ball games with friends. House pride is on full display, with plenty of cheering and encouragement from the sidelines. The Year 12 BBQ and a coffee van keep everyone fed and warm as the cooler weather sets in. A highlight of the day is always the Staff vs Students relay, where the whole school gathers to watch the fun and see if the students can outrun their teachers! The Athletics Carnival is a true favourite on our calendar, blending healthy competition with school spirit.
South Coast Steer Spectacular
Each year, usually at the start of Term 2, Oak Flats High School proudly participates in the South Coast Steer Spectacular. This event gives our agriculture show team hands-on experience in caring for, preparing, grooming and showing cattle, building both practical skills and confidence. It’s an amazing opportunity made possible through the dedication of our farm assistant, volunteers, teachers, students and supportive parents, all working together to create a rewarding experience for everyone involved.
Each year, usually at the start of Term 2, Oak Flats High School proudly participates in the South Coast Steer Spectacular. This event gives our agriculture show team hands-on experience in caring for, preparing, grooming and showing cattle, building both practical skills and confidence. It’s an amazing opportunity made possible through the dedication of our farm assistant, volunteers, teachers, students and supportive parents, all working together to create a rewarding experience for everyone involved.
Reconciliation Flag Walk and Assembly
Each year in Term 2, Oak Flats High School takes part in the Shellharbour Reconciliation Flag Walk, proudly walking alongside Elders, schools, and community members in the spirit of reconciliation. Our students carry the Aboriginal Flag high and join in ceremonies and performances that honour culture and strengthen community connections. Back at school, we continue the celebrations with a whole-school Reconciliation Assembly, where students and staff come together to reflect, learn, and celebrate the importance of reconciliation. These events are a meaningful highlight of the year, reminding us of the strength of culture, respect, and unity.
Each year in Term 2, Oak Flats High School takes part in the Shellharbour Reconciliation Flag Walk, proudly walking alongside Elders, schools, and community members in the spirit of reconciliation. Our students carry the Aboriginal Flag high and join in ceremonies and performances that honour culture and strengthen community connections. Back at school, we continue the celebrations with a whole-school Reconciliation Assembly, where students and staff come together to reflect, learn, and celebrate the importance of reconciliation. These events are a meaningful highlight of the year, reminding us of the strength of culture, respect, and unity.
ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day
Each year, our school community pauses to reflect at ANZAC Day (April) and Remembrance Day (November) assemblies. Together, we honour the service and sacrifice of all men and women who have served in our armed forces, while affirming our shared hope for peace. Our Student Representative Council proudly represents Oak Flats High School at local commemorations, including the Shellharbour City Council ANZAC Day Dawn Service. These moments of respect and remembrance are an important part of our school year, helping students understand the significance of history and the value of unity.
Each year, our school community pauses to reflect at ANZAC Day (April) and Remembrance Day (November) assemblies. Together, we honour the service and sacrifice of all men and women who have served in our armed forces, while affirming our shared hope for peace. Our Student Representative Council proudly represents Oak Flats High School at local commemorations, including the Shellharbour City Council ANZAC Day Dawn Service. These moments of respect and remembrance are an important part of our school year, helping students understand the significance of history and the value of unity.
Cabaret Night
Held towards the end of Term 2, Cabaret Night is an unforgettable annual dinner show that brings together the talents of both students and staff. The evening is catered by our Hospitality students and features performances exploring exciting themes — from 80s rock to the sounds of the silver screen. Students prepare props, select songs, learn pieces, and plan their costumes, while Entertainment students work behind the scenes on sound, lighting, and stage management, and CAPA Art students design and build the sets. The performances dazzle the audience, showcasing creativity, skill, and courage as students step into the spotlight. A crowd favourite is always seeing our teachers share their musical, singing, and sometimes even dancing talents, making the night truly memorable.
Held towards the end of Term 2, Cabaret Night is an unforgettable annual dinner show that brings together the talents of both students and staff. The evening is catered by our Hospitality students and features performances exploring exciting themes — from 80s rock to the sounds of the silver screen. Students prepare props, select songs, learn pieces, and plan their costumes, while Entertainment students work behind the scenes on sound, lighting, and stage management, and CAPA Art students design and build the sets. The performances dazzle the audience, showcasing creativity, skill, and courage as students step into the spotlight. A crowd favourite is always seeing our teachers share their musical, singing, and sometimes even dancing talents, making the night truly memorable.
Southern Stars — The Arena Spectacular
Each year in Term 3 (August), our students shine at Southern Stars — The Arena Spectacular, held at the WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong. Our involvement is diverse – from students auditioning for featured singing roles and joining dance ensembles. Many of our Creative and Performing Arts students attend the matinee show to cheer on peers and be inspired by the region’s talent. Behind the scenes, our VET Entertainment students gain invaluable hands-on experience in stage setup, lighting, audio, cabling, and customer service, working as part of the professional crew. Southern Stars is always a highlight of the year, giving our students the chance to perform, learn, and celebrate creativity together.
HSC Showcase
Towards the end of Term 3, our HSC Showcase celebrates the remarkable achievements of our Year 12 students. It’s a fabulous opportunity to see the very best of Oak Flats High School on display — from stunning timber and design projects, to artworks, music performances, and Society and Culture personal interest reports. The showcase highlights the dedication, creativity, and talent of our students, offering an inspiring glimpse into what can be achieved through hard work and passion.
Towards the end of Term 3, our HSC Showcase celebrates the remarkable achievements of our Year 12 students. It’s a fabulous opportunity to see the very best of Oak Flats High School on display — from stunning timber and design projects, to artworks, music performances, and Society and Culture personal interest reports. The showcase highlights the dedication, creativity, and talent of our students, offering an inspiring glimpse into what can be achieved through hard work and passion.
Year 12 Graduation
In Term 4 (November), after completing their HSC exams, our Year 12 students are formally farewelled in a special day of celebration. The morning begins with a whole-school assembly, where each student is presented with their Oak Flats High School stole by the Principal and Deputy Principal. Graduates then move to the Hall for the official ceremony, sharing this proud milestone with their families, friends, and teachers. The celebrations continue at the Year 12 Formal, where students can relax, reflect, and enjoy marking the end of their school journey together.
In Term 4 (November), after completing their HSC exams, our Year 12 students are formally farewelled in a special day of celebration. The morning begins with a whole-school assembly, where each student is presented with their Oak Flats High School stole by the Principal and Deputy Principal. Graduates then move to the Hall for the official ceremony, sharing this proud milestone with their families, friends, and teachers. The celebrations continue at the Year 12 Formal, where students can relax, reflect, and enjoy marking the end of their school journey together.
"OFHS teachers staff and students. You have, thankfully, set the bar extremely high for the standard of support, loyalty, consistency and love from others for my son. He would not be the amazing young man he is today without all of you and your efforts and guidance. We respect you each immensely and are forever indebted to you. Thank you sincerely from the bottom of our hearts.” — a parent of Oak Flats High School
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