Olivia hopes to study both her loves of mathematics and music at university.

“I want to go to ANU do a double bachelor in statistics and music,” she said.

“At the moment I’m feeling okay, but it’s a bit of an up and down journey. I’ve already applied for early entry and done an audition there.

“If you’re going from year 10 to 11, I’d recommend you choose subjects you’re interested in, because when you like learning about something it’s easier. I took Music and French, because those are my passions.”

Isabella’s interests lie down a different path. 

“I’m hoping to study vet science,” she said.

“Only Charles Sturt and USYD offer the course in NSW, so I’ve also applied out of state, but I’d love to stay rural. 

“I feel somewhat confident – I thinks that’s better than stressing about what you haven’t done.”

Isabella’s confidence should be a certainty if there’s a practical component to her exams – Sunday morning (or HSC-eve) saw her deliver her first calf.