By KATH GANNAWAY
STUDENTS at Upper Yarra Secondary College have rated their Presentation Ball as an absolute highlight of their school life.
Seventeen couples were presented to over 250 guests, including family, friends and teachers, at The Grand in Wantirna South on 7 May.
It is the fourth presentation ball held at the school, and it is fast becoming a tradition that is looked forward to as part of the final years of secondary school.
Year 11 captain Mary McIntosh said the day was a mix of excitement, happiness and, a touch of sadness.
“The day was not only a day for girls and boys to feel and look extra handsome and beautiful, but a day to laugh, smile, dance and enjoy the company of our peers, teachers, closest friends and family,’ she said.
“It also brought sadness as I knew I would never be able to experience something like this again.”
Thanakon (Tuew) Mon-Aphai, also a Year 11 captain, said eight weeks of dance practise paid off.
Describing the night as “awesome” Tuew said he would recommend it to students coming through.
“Minimal dress stepping on was done, minor dance errors were made and watching people tear up the dance floor afterwards made it a great event.”
Year 11 vice-captain Brooke Brown gave a “huge thank you” to dance instructor Mark Schroeders and teachers Tracey Shallcross and Caitlin Stewart.
“If it wasn’t for them, the night would not have been possible,” she said.
Each couple was presented to College School Council president Glen Bray, Eildon MP Cindy McLeish and college principal Patricia Broom.