27 May 2026
St Mary’s School in Northampton recently hosted Governor of Western Australia, His Excellency Hon Christopher Dawson AC APM.
Governor Dawson’s visit was a special moment for the students, one they will be talking about for some time. The Governor’s visit felt personal, engaging and inspiring, giving students a rare opportunity to hear directly from someone with a unique role.
In speaking to the cross-section of the St Mary’s community, the Governor acknowledged Northampton was a town that has stayed ‘united and committed’, especially in the years following Cyclone Seroja. It was a powerful reminder of how strong the community really is.
Governor Dawson showed genuine appreciation for volunteers, speaking about the people who give their time quietly and consistently, those involved in emergency services, surf lifesaving, and everyday acts of helping others calling them the ‘heartbeat of regional communities’.
This was deeply felt by St Mary’s students, many of whom see this service first-hand in their own families. It is also a reminder of the value of service Catholic schools seek to instil in the young people they educate.
The school were grateful for the time Governor Dawson spent directly with students. The time was full of curiosity, laughter, and genuine interest. Students asked about everything from his responsibilities as Governor to his experiences meeting the King. He answered openly, giving students a real insight into his role.
A particularly engaging part of the day was hearing about Governor Dawson’s career as a police officer, and later as the Commissioner of Police. It showed students that there is no single path and that life is built through experience, service, and stepping up when opportunities arise.
One story in particular had everyone smiling. The Governor shared that his very first shift as a police officer involved guarding Government House overnight. He laughed as he told students that he now lives there, reminding them how life can take full-circle moments.
His key message to the students was clear and memorable:
‘life has a way of opening doors and closing doors, so be open to every opportunity that comes your way’.
Students asked about everything from his responsibilities as Governor to his experiences meeting the King. He answered openly, giving students a real insight into his role.
A lighter moment came when learning about the Governor’s car. He explained that instead of a regular number plate, his car carries a crown. This crown was on a special Governor’s coin each of the
children were given as a gift. And it was clear the visit left a strong impression on our St Mary’s students.
Finn described it as ‘fun’ and said he enjoyed hearing how life can change over time.
Liam felt the visit was full of interesting facts and enjoyed learning about the Governor’s responsibilities and daily life.
Whilst Asha shared how grateful she was to have the opportunity to meet the Governor and reflected on one of the Governor’s messages ‘that some doors in life open while others close’.
The school were grateful for the time Governor Dawson spent directly with students. The time was full of curiosity, laughter, and genuine interest.
