The Mercury was on hand to capture the big moment before they started big school.
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Seven years later the same five Illawarra students, who will start high school this Tuesday, took the opportunity to meet photographer Robert Peet to recreate the photo.
Although still friends, Alexander Grech, Grace Hilton, Matthew Salm, Tamieka Platt and Conor Mountney haven’t seen as much of each other as they’ve liked.
“Thanks to Facebook and Instagram all five families have though kept in contact,” Grace said.
Slide the image to reveal the photos from then and now.
“We have also managed to catch up with each other at various parties and events.
“However after today’s reunion we have committed to catching up with each other once every term (at the very least) over the next seven years and beyond.”
As was the case in 2011, each will attend different schools in 2018.
Alexander is going to Edmind Rice College, Grace remains at The Illawarra Grammar School (TIGS), Matthew is at Bulli High School, Tameika is a Keira High School student and Conor is at Cedars Christian College.
But they still have plans to stay connected and have set personal targets to achieve over the next seven years.
Matthew said while he had changed a lot and “obviously grown up” over the last seven years, he wants to improve his use of technology and improve in music and sport during his high school years.
“I also want to do well in the HSC because I want to be a teacher,” he said.
Alex on the other hand is looking to “build great friendships and life experiences”.
Tameika hopes the next time the group gets together in seven years time, she’s about to start university.
“I would love to be in uni and studying creative arts,” she said.
Conor is also banking at being at university.
“But I’m just looking forward to the challenges that high school is going to provide for me. Hopefully it’s new opportunities and new friendships,” he said.
Grace has grander ambitions. “I want to advocate for important issues and make a positive difference in the world. I would also like to travel more,” she said.
