Sometimes the greatest life journeys begin with saying yes to something completely unexpected.
For Hannah Calcino, that unexpected “yes” was a trip to Mount Isa.
Growing up on the Gold Coast, Hannah had always known rural Australia through family holidays and stories, but she never imagined it would become home. Yet one week volunteering at ICPA’s Sports for Bush Kids program opened a door that would ultimately shape her life’s work.
Since then, she’s lived with remote families as a governess, worked in boarding schools, become a teacher in Winton, volunteered extensively with ICPA Australia and completed a Masters of Education examining one of the biggest challenges facing rural families – how children transition into metropolitan boarding schools.
But what makes Hannah’s story so compelling isn’t her impressive résumé.
It’s the reason behind it.
Throughout our conversation, one theme kept emerging: service.
Whether she was describing the family who welcomed her into their home as a governess, the boarders she supported through homesickness, or the volunteer army behind ICPA’s advocacy work, Hannah returned time and again to one simple belief – we’re here to contribute to something bigger than ourselves.
Her research reached a conclusion every boarding parent should hear.
Children who build a strong sense of belonging—through friendships, sport, boarding life, family and school—navigate the transition far more successfully than those whose identity rests in just one place. It’s a reminder that encouraging children to become involved isn’t simply about keeping busy. It’s about helping them build multiple places where they feel valued and connected.
The conversation also shines a light on the extraordinary commitment of rural educators.
Hannah shared that in just one school semester, staff at her school travelled more than 6,000 kilometres so students could participate in representative sport—an effort that simply illustrates what rural communities do every day to create opportunities for their children.
Perhaps the most memorable moment came right at the end.
When asked what legacy she hopes to leave, Hannah didn’t mention qualifications, promotions or achievements.
Instead, she said:
“I just want to leave places better than I found them.”
It’s a simple statement, but one that perfectly captures not only Hannah’s journey, but the spirit of so many people quietly serving rural and remote Australia every day.
If you’re preparing your own child for boarding school, work in education or simply love hearing stories of purpose and community, this is an episode that will stay with you.
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
