Two Year 12 students from St Patrick’s College Mackay have achieved national recognition, placing third in Australia at the prestigious National High School Mooting Competition – while simultaneously becoming the only regional school to reach the semi-finals and claim a top-three spot.
Claudia Illguth and Mikayla Green represented the appellant in a challenging civil law case centred on parental liability for a child’s negligent behaviour. Their client had been injured on private property by an intoxicated teenage driver, sparking complex legal debate over a parent’s duty of care.
No strangers to mooting, the pair returned to the competition this year with renewed focus and a deep commitment to preparation.
“We were already familiar with the process and what we needed to do to prepare,” Mikayla said.
Having worked together since Year 7, their connection and chemistry as a team were evident.
“We’ve been on this journey together for years,” Claudia added.
“Working together was pretty effortless.”
The duo’s performance on the national stage was not only a win for their school but a proud moment for the entire Mackay region.
“It’s a massive achievement,” Mikayla said.
“We’re two females from a regional school going up against teams that have done this for years.
“It just shows what rural students are capable of.”
Their preparation was rigorous, involving hours of legal research, deep case analysis and practice anticipating rebuttals.
“You have to fill in the holes of your own argument before the judges can,” Claudia explained.
“And know the facts inside out… because the judges certainly will.”
Both students are now setting their sights on future careers in the legal world. Mikayla hopes to study International Relations alongside Law, while Claudia plans to study Law and Commerce.
Their message to other students, especially those from regional areas, is to “work hard because self-belief can take you anywhere.”
“Just back yourselves,” Claudia added.
“We did it for our families, our school, and for the students who might want to do this next.”
They also credited their success to their strong partnership, support from their school community, and especially their mentor, Miss Hannant.
“They were absolutely outstanding,” she said.
“Their achievement exemplifies the strength of our regional community.
“We may be outside the big cities, but we have the drive, the support, and the heart to turn opportunity into success… Our dreams are just as possible.”
Two Year 12 students from St Patrick’s College Mackay earned national recognition, proudly showcasing regional talent and determination. Photos supplied
Claudia Illguth and Mikayla Green secured third place at the National High School Mooting Competition, putting Mackay on the map. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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