On Friday afternoon our new Student Leaders joined staff and members of the IGS Choir to visit the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse – a leading cancer treatment and research hospital that holds a special place in our community.
Under the direction of Director of Music Mr Darren Kuilenburg, the Choir brought the magic of Christmas to the hospital, filling its corridors with warmth, hope and song. Patients and visitors were visibly moved by both the music and the heartfelt conversations shared throughout the visit.
Students also presented beautifully prepared gift baskets and games for the hospital’s YouCan Centre, made possible through generous donations from Haigh’s Chocolates, Harris Farm, Officeworks and Coles. Special thanks go to Music Leader Oscar F and Kuyal Leader Tilly B for their leadership in organising and collecting these donations.
During the visit, students were honoured to meet Mrs Gayle O’Brien, wife of the late Professor Chris O’Brien, whose compassion and vision continue to inspire the work of the Lifehouse. They also spoke with CEO Professor Michael Boyer AM, gaining a deeper understanding of the hospital’s commitment to patient care and research. Mrs O’Brien expressed her gratitude for the support shown by the IGS community.
Student Leader Orla O, Kuyal Leader, reflected on the experience:
“Visiting Chris O’Brien Lifehouse was an immensely rewarding experience; being able to speak to patients and staff was a privilege. I developed a deeper understanding of the great work Lifehouse does. It felt so special giving back to the community – to an organisation that has helped so many – and learning so much about what they do and the impact they have, especially in their Youth Cancer Centre. I cannot express how valuable this experience was. With this in mind, I’m excited to help continue fostering this culture of giving back next Friday as we raise money for Chris O’Brien Lifehouse.”
This visit captured the essence of our IGS Connect program – compassion in action and the joy of giving back. We are proud of our students for representing the School with empathy, kindness and heart.
