To stress less during his Year 12 studies, St Columba's Catholic College Springwood student Oliver Smuhar committed up to three hours of an evening to creative writing. As a result, Oliver has self-published his first novel, The Gifts of Life, all before doing his HSC exams!
The aspiring journalist started writing the fantasy novel in January 2017 and finished at 486 pages six months later.
“I have always enjoyed writing as a kid and one day I mentioned to my mum and dad that I wanted to write this novel and they liked the idea,” Oliver said.
“It was a huge commitment, especially when I had assessment tasks for school to complete and at times I felt it was a bit crazy, but it was also a good project to focus on instead of getting stressed out about upcoming exams.
“The biggest headache was all the paperwork attached to getting the book self-published, but it was good to see what it is like to have responsibilities like in the adult world,” Oliver said.
Oliver was inspired by the classic novel Lord of the Flies by William Golding and J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy, as well as the experience of travelling to Europe.
“The main character is a lot like myself and my friends and family also played a big part in forming the other characters throughout the book,” he said.
“The book is about a world called Oberon, which is similar to Australia. It is about a 16-year-old boy, Perry Caduca, who lives in a city called Kelton Whide. “Together with his best friend Faith, Perry attends the annual Ascension Ceremony to celebrate the switching on of Kelton Whide’s beacon. It is here that they are made aware of their super powers.
“Something sinister forces Perry to abandon his home city and go on a journey which results in him and his friends being forced to fight for their survival. As it becomes more dangerous, their powers begin to mutate. The only resolution comes in finding the Gifts of Life, truth that has the power to change the world.”
St Columba's College Assistant Principal Carol Muscat said the school is very proud of Oliver, especially as he managed to write his fantasy novel during his HSC year.
“It is an enormous achievement for anyone, but especially for a student who was also completing Year 12,” Ms Muscat said.
“I hope this inspires other students to follow their dreams and persevere. Always set high expectations for yourself and never give up.”
For more details about Gifts of Life or to purchase it visit www.oliversmuhar.com
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
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26 Aug 2026
From Facebook
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26 Aug 2026
From Facebook
What a fantastic way to celebrate National Skills Week! Today, St Columba’s hosted our inaugural Skilled Futures Careers Expo, with 22 exhibitors joining us at the College to inspire and inform our Year 10, 11 and 12 students about the incredible range of career opportunities available to them. From construction trades and early childhood education to the Police and ADF, motor mechanics, hair and beauty, local government and so much more, there really was something for everyone! It was fantastic to see our students engaging with industry professionals, asking questions and exploring the possibilities that could shape their futures. A huge thank you to all 22 exhibitors for giving up your time, sharing your expertise and helping our students see where their skills and interests could take them. Your enthusiasm and generosity made the Expo such a success. And of course, a big thank you to our wonderful St Columba’s staff who helped organise, coordinate and support the event throughout the day. It takes a team to make an event like this happen, and we are so grateful for everyone who played a part. What a brilliant celebration of skills, careers and the many exciting futures ahead for our students! National Skills Week Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Susan Templeman MP Prue Car MP Andrew Giles MP Trish Doyle MP
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From Facebook
There’s been some very cute new arrivals at the College! 🐑 Our first little lambs of the season arrived last week when a set of twins made their entrance, followed by three more new arrivals over the weekend. And the best part? We’re still expecting at least two more! While these little ones are certainly stealing the show, their arrival also marks one of the busiest and most rewarding times of the year for our Agriculture students. Caring for newborn lambs takes commitment, patience and plenty of hard work, and our students step up every year to make sure they are well cared for. It’s one of the many reasons we value Agriculture education so highly at St Columba’s. Our students aren’t just learning about agriculture in a classroom, they’re developing practical skills, responsibility and a genuine understanding of what it takes to care for animals. Many of our students also go on to pursue post-school pathways in Ag with our amazing tertiary and industry partners! For now, though, we think they’ve earned a little time for some serious lamb cuddles! #agriculture Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Charles Sturt University University of Tasmania University of New England, AU University of Sydney NSW Agriculture Sydney Royal Easter Show
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