Proud Ngiyampaa man Jake Gillies became the first graduate of UNE’s Tamworth TRACKS study group in 2023. This achievement demonstrates not only his personal dedication but also the supportive environment fostered by the Tamworth community.
Now, Jake has graduated with an Undergraduate Certificate in Arts and is enrolled in a Bachelor of Sustainability.
“Honestly, I never saw myself at university,” Jake said candidly, smiling with a humility that matches his warmth. “I went to school mostly to play sport. But going through TRACKS taught me patience, persistence and an understanding that it’s fine not to have all the answers immediately.”
TRACKS is UNE’s program to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through the initial challenges of university study. It was pivotal in Jake building a strong academic foundation.
At UNE’s Tamworth HUB he met Jake Morris, a respected Gamilaraay man and UNE Tamworth’s Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator. A man deeply committed to education and community empowerment, he personally drove Jake and fellow graduand Jason Livermore from Tamworth to UNE’s Oorala Aboriginal Centre for the Sashing Ceremony that preceded their May graduations.
Jake Morris proudly cheered on the pair during the graduation ceremony, clearly moved by their success. Their interactions showed the strong, genuine bond formed through their shared journeys.
Looking forward, Jake Gillies’ ambition is clear. “If I could go back and talk to my younger self, I’d say don’t be scared of the unknown, just give everything a crack.”
His educational journey has empowered and expanded Jake’s horizons, and he’s now enthusiastic about throwing the ladder down for anyone else coming up behind him. His personal accomplishments illustrate what’s possible when communities unite, culture is celebrated, and individuals courageously embrace new opportunities.
