Comet Bay College star student awarded for outstanding academic achievements

Comet Bay College graduate Caleb Langan has been announced as one of two recipients for the 2021 Rob Riley Memorial Prize.

The prize is named in honour of the late Aboriginal human rights advocate and is awarded to the top-performing Indigenous students in WA.

Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery presented the awards last month to Caleb for his Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) and Myka Richards-Matters from Rossmoyne Senior High School for her Vocational Education and Training (VET).

They received $5000 to help with education and training in their respective areas.

Since graduating Caleb has continued his education at the University of Melbourne, studying a Bachelor of Science in mathematical physics, where he hopes to become a research scientist.

His father accepted the award on his behalf while Caleb video-linked in.

Caleb attributed his academic success and motivation to his teachers at Comet Bay College, in particular deputy principal and growth coach Michael Churchman, who he said helped him to grow, focus and set goals; his family and friends for their support and encouragement and Engineering Aid Australia for opening up opportunities for him.

Myka achieved qualifications in sport and recreation, education support and community services and is currently completing her orientation to join the Aboriginal Police cadetship program.

Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said she was proud of the students and their achievements so far.

“I congratulate both Caleb and Myka on their achievements and well-earned success,” she said.

“Caleb’s top marks in ATAR demonstrate his motivation and academic achievement and I look forward to following his career in research science.

“Myka’s work ethic and dedication to learning have provided her with the foundation to succeed in achieving her goals and secure the opportunity to enter the Aboriginal Police cadetship program.”