Wallabies legend Mark Ella inspires St Clare’s students

Australian rugby union legend Mark Ella visited students at St Clare's Catholic High School Hassall Grove to share stories from his renowned sporting career, and powerful lessons about perseverance and cultural pride.

During his visit, Mark spoke of growing up in an Indigenous community in La Perouse. One of 12 children, he credits his family for helping develop the skills that would take him, and several of his siblings, to the highest levels of Australian sport.

His twin brother Glen and younger brother Gary also played rugby union for Australia, while his younger sister Marcia represented the nation in netball.

“Even though we were an Indigenous family, that didn’t stop us from achieving what we believed we could achieve,” Mark told students.

Mark Ella visits St Clare's Catholic High Hassall Grove
It was a message that resonated with students Myah C and Latoya C, who reflected on the importance of family, respect and persistence.

“What I took from what Mark said was to look up to my family, respect everyone and support them, because at the end of the day, they’re the ones who support us to the very end,” Myah said. “Just love and respect your family, friends and teachers.”

Latoya said Mark’s story showed how consistency and determination could help young people reach their goals.

“If you always try and never stop, be consistent, you’ll always get where you need to be,” she said. “Try to be greater than what you are now.”

Mark Ella visits St Clare's Catholic High Hassall Grove

Mark reflected on his remarkable rugby career, including the way he and his teammates changed how the game was played.

“We reinvented it," he said. "We ran with the football all the time. We didn’t kick it; we ran, backed up and supported each other. We were unstoppable in those days.”

His sporting journey took him around the world, including a five-year stint living in Milan. There were plenty of memorable experiences, including meeting the Queen at Buckingham Palace as part of the Australian Schoolboys Rugby tour of Europe. Yet Mark’s message to students remained grounded in the everyday values that helped him succeed.

“Believe in what you can do," he said. "Nothing comes easy. You’ve got to work your backside off, but you get rewarded for the effort you put in."

Mark Ella visits St Clare's Catholic High Hassall Grove

The visit finished with a rugby session, giving students the chance to see Mark in action and join in the fun.

“It was really cool to see him play some rugby,” Myah said. “Even though it was just a little fun game with students, it was still cool to see him play, have fun and laugh with the students.”

But it was the school’s welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that left an impression on the Wallabies great.

“The students I saw were all enthusiastic and playing with all their friends; they were of all different backgrounds, and everyone was happy,” Mark said. “I really appreciate the opportunity to come here today to talk to the students. I’ve got a lot of respect for the school and what it’s trying to do.”

For St Clare’s students, the visit offered more than a chance to meet a sporting legend. It was an opportunity to hear how hard work, family support and a belief in what is possible can help shape a future.

* The visit was made possible due to a partnership between Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) and Mark Ella’s company, VDG Indigenous Services, which will provide cleaning services to a number of CSPD schools. VDG Indigenous Services secured the business through a competitive tender process, and their selection reflects CSPD’s commitment to supporting First Nations businesses.