Top honours for reigning dux as she sets sights on saving lives in remote FNQ

The future looks bright for Douglas Shire's Tully Smith, who was recently awarded the Anthony Family Trophy for 2024 College Dux at St Stephen’s Catholic College in Mareeba.

This prestigious award is given to the top-performing Year 12 student in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements in 2024.

Along with this honour, Tully also received the Principal’s Medal for Academic Achievement, subject awards for Chemistry and Physics, and an Academic Excellence Award.

Now, she is embarking on the next chapter of her journey as a first year medical student at James Cook University, studying a dual degree in medicine and surgery.

With a passion for cardiothoracic surgery and rural generalism, Tully hopes to bring specialised medical care to remote communities in Far North Queensland.

“I always knew I wanted to study medicine,” she said. 

She credits her success to the support of teachers, family, and peers.

“My teachers and parents were my biggest supporters, I couldn’t have done it without them. 

"Special mention to Ms Kleyn, Mrs Somerton, and Ms Smith, you all made my high school experience even more enjoyable and memorable.”

For younger students at St Stephen’s, Tully’s advice is simple: “Don’t give up.”

“Give it your best shot so you don’t look back and wonder, ‘What if?’ Stay on top of your work to avoid feeling overwhelmed, and most importantly, take care of yourself. 

“You can’t give things your best effort or do your best work if you aren’t taking care of your mental and physical health; you are your first priority. 

“Most importantly, trust and believe in yourself, you are more than capable if you put in the work. Good luck! “

Her top study tip? “Get a whiteboard!”

“It makes studying more enjoyable and helps with active recall. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help, everyone wants you to succeed.”

Tully’s vision for the future is clear - in 10 years, she hopes to be travelling between rural hospitals, providing specialised care to underserved communities.

“Hopefully, I’ll be debt-free too!” she adds with a laugh.