Attended by Acting Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, the passing out ceremony on Thursday was an opportunity to reflect on past memories with lifelong friends.

Mr Joyce had some sage advice for the young women.

“Life is a 1500 metre race, you get to pass the finishing line four times and this is the first time, don’t start waving at the crowd,” he laughed.

Head girl April Larsen said she would be sad to leave the women that have been her friends for the past few years.

“It’s been fantastic leading all these amazing girls, getting to know everyone and working as a team to make sure the ship keeps sailing.

“I love the school, I’ve been here for six years and it means a lot to me, my family has a long history and tradition here, my grandmother went to this school, it’s very important to me,” she said. 

Green house captain Lily Clonan has been at NEGS for nine years.

“Our year is so strong, we’re just one big family,” she laughed.