Alumni

As the oldest school in Wagga Wagga, we are proud to have a long and rich history filled with notable alumni. We love knowing that the education they received here at Wagga Wagga Public School has helped set them on paths of success and happiness. Our former students include famous writers, athletes, and activists—remarkable individuals who have gone on to make a real difference in the world. While fame is not the true measure of success, many of our alumni have moved forward with kindness and compassion, positively impacting the lives of those around them. We truly treasure all of our past students and feel honoured to share in their achievements and journeys.

Dame Mary Gilmore (DBE)

Poet, journalist, activist & featured on the $10 bank note

Dame Mary Jean Gilmore was a remarkable Australian writer and journalist whose work touched the hearts of many. Growing up in the beautiful Riverina region around Wagga Wagga, she attended Wagga Wagga Public School, and then returned as a qualified schoolteacher by 16. Later became deeply involved in the labour movement and social causes. Her adventurous spirit even took her to Paraguay as part of a utopian community before returning to Australia to continue her writing career.

Mary Jean became well known for her poetry and prose that celebrated country life and championed the welfare of those less fortunate. She edited the women's section of The Australian Worker for over two decades and wrote passionately for many other publications. Her powerful poem “No Foe Shall Gather Our Harvest” uplifted Australians during World War II.

Later in life, Mary Jean was celebrated as a beloved literary icon, appearing on radio and television, and writing well into her late 80s and 90s. She passed away aged 97 and was honoured with a state funeral—an extraordinary recognition. Today, her legacy lives on, including her image proudly featured on the Australian ten-dollar note, inspiring generations to come.

Sally Shiphard

Former Matilda's player & Olympian

Sally Shipard is a beloved member of our Wagga Wagga Public School alumni community. She grew up right here in Wagga and began playing junior soccer with the Wagga PCYC. As her talent and passion blossomed, Sally joined Canberra United in the W-League. Her career took her all the way to Germany, before she proudly represented Australia in two FIFA Women’s World Cups and the 2004 Athens Olympic Games.

Recently, Sally kindly gave her time to the Wagga Public School community, sharing her inspiring sporting journey with our students. Sally cemented her place in Wagga Wagga history in 2026 when the sporting oval on Edward and Tarcutta Streets was named in her honour. At the unveiling of the Sally Shipard Oval, she wore her WWPS school socks—a special moment that thrilled all our budding soccer stars and Olympians who look up to her.

The Rake Family

Mr Rowan Rake was once a student at Wagga Wagga Public School. He has recently returned as the proud father as his three children, Millie, Tom and Charlie attend our school. Watch below as his son, Tom (our 2026 school captain) interviews Rowan about his experiences as both a student and a parent at WWPS.

Field Marshall Sir Thomas Albert Blamey

Australian general in the First and Second World Wars

Field Marshal Sir Thomas Albert Blamey, born near Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, attended Wagga Wagga Public School and was the only Australian to attain the rank of field marshal, serving with distinction in both World Wars. He played key roles in major campaigns such as Gallipoli, the Western Front, and the South West Pacific, eventually commanding Australian forces and signing the Japanese Instrument of Surrender in 1945. Beyond his military career, Blamey also served as Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police and contributed to the establishment of the Royal Australian Air Force.

Geoff Lawson (OAM)

Australian test cricketer and international coach

When asked by the UNSW Cricket Club on their ‘Stump to Stump’ webpage if he remembers his first game of cricket, Geoff Lawson replied:

“At Wagga Public School (locally known as Gurwood Street PS), we played two cricket matches every recess and lunchtime on a concrete square about 40 x 40 metres—third and fourth class on one corner, and at 90 degrees, fifth and sixth class on the other.”

From the concrete squares of WWPS, Geoff went on to play Test cricket for Australia before coaching the Pakistani Cricket Team.

Our notable alumni

Our visiting alumni