WA school leavers 2021 kicks off across the South West

Wet weather and storm warnings did nothing to dampen leavers spirits as WA’s class of 2021 hit the South West to celebrate the end of high school. From as early as 12.01am, teenagers were seen camping out to secure their 2021 Official Leavers wristband, with some waiting in line more than four hours to secure their all-access band. One of only a few organised end of exam events in the country, the Dunsborough Leavers Zone opens tomorrow night and is the first WA event to mandate vaccinations. While severe storm warnings were issues and teens found themselves caught in the rain, spirits were high despite the long wait times. Harry Smith, 17, and his friends arrived from Perth at 9 am and said he was looking forward to the chance to relax after navigating a challenging two years. He, and his friends, were among many schoolies who also welcomed the COVID-19 vaccine mandate despite the heavy criticism it’s faced from the WA public. “Getting vaccinated just makes sense, for us and the community, could you imagine one case during leavers it would ruin the comfort we’re able to live in here in WA in a matter of seconds,” Mr Smith said. “There’s a lot of talk around freedoms when it comes to anti-vaccine stances but freedom doesn’t mean you have the ability to hurt other people by your negligence for public safety. Fellow schoolie Lauren Bonser echoed the sentiment saying the vaccine “just made sense” regardless of the celebrations. South West Superintendent Geoff Stewart praised the youngsters patience and compliance with the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, with registrations soaring in the days leading up to Leavers 2021 and pop up vaccination clinics rushed with last minute jabs. “Everything we do is to minimise harm to leavers, it’s as simple as that,” he said. “If you’re trying to get into leavers events that you’re not entitled to you will be identified and we’ll deal with you. “Don’t break the law, don’t embarrass yourself, don’t embarrass mum and dad and don’t embarrass your school. “At best, you could be held accountable with possibly a court appearance and that has lasting implications long after Leavers. At worst, you or others could end up seriously injured or even worse from taking unnecessary risks.” Earlier in the week, attendees were warned, should they try flout the mandate and forge vaccine proofs they will face criminal charges for their actions. In addition to WA Police, and the dozens of agencies on hand to support graduates, Red Frogs WA once again has joined the celebrations to lend a helping hand to party-goers. Red Frogs WA State director Hayden Glass said his team would support schoolies in everything from a simply shoulder to lean on to providing help for vulnerable students.