Distance proved no barrier for two 2021 HSC students in taking part in the final creative event of their school life.

Film crews travelled more than 700 kilometres west to Hillston and north to Alstonville to ensure two young performers could take part in the Spectacular Schools – Inspired series; a celebration of student resilience and engagement in the Arts.

Singer Jorja Dalton, from Hillston Central School, was filmed on her family’s farm during harvest time, while Alstonville High School’s Sam Green was filmed on a local macadamia farm and the coastline of Ballina.

The duo headline the filmed item, From Now On, which focuses on the Year 12 graduating class of 2021 and involved 22 public schools, 11 vocalists, 11 instrumentalists and 10 dancers.

The majority of the students were filmed near Qudos Bank Arena, while Sam and Jorja were filmed in their remote locations, reflecting the broader reach of performance, made possible by digital connectedness.

Jorja’s mother, Tania, said filming her part in the performance was a memory Jorja would treasure forever.

“This has been a dream come true for Jorja. She has watched and dreamed of one day being a part of Schools Spectacular and to have that dream be realised with the team coming out to her, on her own family farm, has been the most amazing experience,” she said.

“It wasn’t only about the friends and the opportunity to feel a part of such a big, wonderful, creative project, but about the experience and the memories made.”

Having been selected as a Featured Artist in the Schools Spectacular since 2018, Sam was keen to step into the spotlight, one last time.

“[Schools Spectacular] just means so much to me,” Sam said, “It’s given me so much confidence and experience.

“Music is what I want do with my life and in some ways, having a professional film clip experience has made this year’s journey even more meaningful to my future. I‘m so proud that I have been a part of it.”

Filmed in December 2021, the item, From Now On, forms an important part of the Spectacular Schools – Inspired project, with The Arts Unit continuing to support students with an opportunity to come together with like-minded students, who share a passion for performing and creative arts.

The Spectacular Schools – Inspired project runs until 8 April 2022. Local submissions for individual school entries are welcome, as is participation in the combined schools items. See the website for more details: https://artsunit.nsw.edu.au/spectacular-schools-inspired