Former Warilla High School dux and student leader Neil Kirby returned to his former school recently to launch his debut novel, Binya, five decades after he first walked the school’s corridors.

The author, who graduated from Warilla High in 1977, said it was deeply meaningful to hold the event at the school that shaped his life, referring to it as a “full circle” moment.

“I always wanted to write a novel – that seed was planted here at Warilla High,” Mr Kirby said.

“I like to joke that when Mrs Bramblett [his English teacher at Warilla] set us a story-writing assignment, I just handed it in 50 years late.”

Mr Kirby said his public education at Warilla High had always been dear to his heart and he wanted to come back to the school to show students that it was never too late to chase your dreams.

“The school played such a significant role in my development, and I’m certain it laid the foundation for everything I’ve achieved in life,” he said.

“It gave me incredible opportunities, and those experiences gave me the communication skills that shaped both my career and my writing.”

The launch event was a chance to inspire today’s generation of students. Mr Kirby hosted a reading and Q&A session with students, offering budding young writers an inspiring look into the creative process.

“The students were amazing; they connected so well, asked thoughtful questions, and really inspired me in return,” Mr Kirby said.

“It confirmed to me that coming back to Warilla High was absolutely the right decision.”

Mr Kirby said some of his fondest memories were from his time at Warilla High.

“Finishing as student leader and dux was very special, but what stands out most is the sense of belonging,” he said.

“My year group is still close after nearly five decades, and a number of them even came along to the launch, which meant a lot to me.”

Warilla High’s staff and students were delighted to welcome Neil Kirby to their school for the launch of his novel.

Relieving principal, Jennifer Lawrence, said: “What a great way to show our students that you can realise your dreams with the grounding you get in a wonderful public school."

Head Teacher English, Mat Howley, said: “The reading was wonderful and beautifully delivered. It was clear from the students’ reactions just how captivated they were. Moments like this are powerful reminders of the impact literature can have in a school community.”

Year 10 student, Ryan Smith, said: “I really enjoyed the reading. The excerpt seemed deeply personal and included some rich settings. The characters were unique and authentic. You could see Mr. Kirby’s passion for storytelling.”

Mr Kirby’s ties with Warilla High remain strong. In 2003, he was invited to deliver the keynote address at the school’s annual speech night, which sparked the creation of the Neil Kirby School Ambassador of the Year Award, honouring students who go above and beyond in promoting the school in the wider community.

Public school alumni authors

• Jumaana Abdu – Castle Hill Public School; James Ruse Agricultural High School

• Michael Mohamed Ahmed – Punchbowl Boys High School

• Charlie Batt – Nambucca Heads Public School; Nambucca Heads High School
  

• Jane Caro – The Forest High School

• Kate Grenville – Cremorne Girls High School

• Neil Kirby – Warilla High School

• Kathy Lette – Cronulla High School
  

• Tracey Lien – Cabramatta High School

• Kaneana May – Taree High School

• Gillian Mears – Grafton High School

• Rachel Perkins – Taree High School
  

• Vivian Pham – Georges Hall Public School, Birrong Girls High School

• Michael Robotham – Orara High School

• Omar Sakr – Liverpool Boys High School

• Kirli Saunders – Mittagong Public School; Bowral High School
  

• Steve Tolz – Killara High School

• Pip Williams – Mackellar Girls High School

• Tara June Winch – Wollongong High School

• Marcus Zusak – Engadine High School