Speeches
Thursday, 31 July 2025
Reception for Ice Factor Program
Rod and I warmly welcome you all to Government House.
Congratulations to each and every one of you on taking part in the Ice Factor Program.
Some of you have been playing ice hockey for a while, while for others, you’re just starting in term 3. I trust you are all enjoying the program.
I also congratulate members of the Kaurna Boomerangs and Ice Factor Dragons who travelled to Darwin for the NT Ice Hockey Invitational a few weeks ago – a highlight of your season no doubt.
As a young person I loved the sport of rowing, and I respect anyone who dedicates themselves to a sport – especially one as challenging as ice hockey.
Not only are competing against a team just as motivated as you to win, but you must move with speed, agility and determination on ice – which presents its own slippery challenges!
One day when you look back on your time with Ice Factor, I hope you will do so with pride, and recognise how far you have come.
You are becoming team players working towards a common goal, building self-discipline and becoming leaders.
You are developing respect for others’ abilities and learning how to be resilient. If you miss a pass or a shot at goal, you let it go and get back on track – because your team needs you.
Life throws up many challenges, which have an impact on your schooling, home and social lives.
Ice Factor is preparing you to achieve success in many areas of life: school, further training, employment, being active members of your community.
I hope that Ice Factor is helping you to believe in yourselves, and to know that hard work and commitment bring results.
I congratulate Mrs Marie Shaw on her leadership of the Ice Factor Program, which has grown significantly since it began 20 years ago.
During this time, graduates have gone on to do great things, from gaining employment to undertaking tertiary study, playing AFL or becoming a musician, such as Windsor Warrior alumnus Brandon Orr, who will perform at the Ice Factor Spectacular in November.
A number of you have also expressed interest in joining the Adelaide Summer League for 16-18 year olds – this would be a great way to continue developing your ice hockey skills, and grow your friendships too.
I thank everyone who has contributed to the success of the program, including the generous sponsors, donors, schools and volunteers. You give the program strength and vitality.
To our students, I wish you all the best with Ice Factor and I hope to see you on one of my school visits, or out in the community.
You have many people who care for you – your parents, teachers, coaches, Rod and I.
If you see us out in public, please come up and say hello – we’d love to hear how you are going.