The Way We Met
2 February, 2026
From boarding school connections to life on a Merino sheep station, Emily McLeod and Tom Riggs share how love, timing and country roots shaped their story.
Articles and stories about boarding in Australia
From boarding school connections to life on a Merino sheep station, Emily McLeod and Tom Riggs share how love, timing and country roots shaped their story.
Meet the O’Brien family from a mixed farm near Warren in Central Western New South Wales.
Three boarding school families share their favourite holiday destinations and why familiar places, slower days and time together matter most.
Katie Last shares her family’s rural life near Cootamundra, their boarding school journey, and the growth, resilience and pride she’s seen in her three daughters.
From their farm near Wagga Wagga, Jane Robertson shares an honest reflection on preparing her eldest for boarding school in 2026 and the emotions that come with letting go.
Katie shares her journey of sending her boys to boarding school, navigating distance, homesickness, and communication, while celebrating their growth, resilience, and opportunities.
Georgie Robertson from Coolamon shares her journey sending three daughters to boarding school, reflecting on the challenges, growth, independence, and lasting friendships each experienced.
Kirsty shares her journey raising four children in rural NSW, balancing distance, communication, and homesickness, while treasuring school holiday reunions and family traditions.
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The School of the EXPO Award celebrates genuine connection between families and schools. Voted on by families attending each event, the award recognises schools that stand out for their friendliness, presentation, and knowledge of boarding life. It’s a fun, interactive way for families – and their children – to engage with the schools in the room, while giving exhibitors valuable feedback on what resonates most. Each winning school receives a free registration for the following year’s Expo in recognition of their excellence.
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