At just 21 years of age, Georgia Sheahan is already a business owner, sports talent and community leader. Travelling all the way from Dumosa, in Victoria’s Mallee, Georgia joined the St Hilda’s College community in 2017. Graduating from Wycheproof P-12 College, Georgia is studying a Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of Melbourne and hopes to one day own and operate an agribusiness firm. Almost half St Hilda’s residents are from towns in rural and regional Australia and Georgia exemplifies the college’s motto Communitas, meaning spirit of community.
Involving herself in a plethora of St Hilda’s sports teams, Georgia has captained the women’s first division netball team to back-to-back grand final victories. Also playing women’s football, she recently won the most valuable player award.
“Sport provides a fun opportunity to work together in a team. It relates to business too as it allows you to collaborate with others to achieve the best outcome,” Georgia said.
Business is something Georgia and her brother Toby, who also attended St Hilda’s College, know a lot about. In 2017 they established a contracting business, Dumosa Contracting, to lease machinery to local farmers. “I’m passionate about providing a quality experience and grateful this company has assisted me to finance my college tuition,” Georgia said.
A true self-starter, she also believes in giving back to her community, donating to her local football and netball clubs. “Being on a college scholarship and coming from a small town has instilled a strong sense of community in me. It’s important to give back where you’re able, you don’t want to see anyone
become unstuck,” Georgia said.
Georgia’s strong community ties helped her become a school ambassador. She visited Wycheproof P-12 College and Charlton College to present information about St Hilda’s, including its tailored tutorials program. Georgia’s engaging demeanour encouraged Charlton students, including Trent Cossar, to apply to St Hilda’s. “I’m lucky enough to be part of two supportive communities, my home town and college, and being an ambassador allowed me to improve my public speaking skills and reconnect with students and teachers,” Georgia said.
Georgia is also a student-staff liaison officer. Discussing healthy menu options with St Hilda’s kitchen staff, Georgia is passionate about fresh local produce, as she has a strong understanding of environmental impact and Australian agriculture. “I am so grateful for all the opportunities I have received at St Hilda’s College and encourage others to expand their comfort zones and jump in the deep end,” Georgia said.
St Hilda’s Residential College at the University of Melbourne gives students academic support, leadership opportunities and scholarship programs. The College prides itself on its ability to prepare and empower young people to be community and business leaders.