Community & Business
18 February, 2026
Dux off to be a doc
HARLEY Cek was named St Stephen’s College Dux of 2025 after achieving an impressive ATAR result of 98.85.
Harley had a stellar senior year in 2025, picking up 12 awards at his school’s annual presentation night and achieving an ATAR score that places him among some of the top students in the state, with only 37 achieving the highest possible score of 99.95.
“It’s almost surreal, but it’s also a privilege.” the former school captain said speaking to his achievement.
“I guess it’s a bit of a legacy for me at this school, so I’m very honoured to be part of that.”
Each year, the school’s Dux is added to the Anthony Family Trophy and receives a $500 bursary, courtesy of David Anthony.
The Mareeba local is now in his first week of university at James Cook University in Townsville, where he is studying a Bachelor of Medicine. He said his family’s involvement in the healthcare industry had been a big influence in steering him toward a career as a doctor.
“I think just exposure to health care early on in my life, mainly through my family, definitely influenced me a lot,” he said.
“But I was more drawn to medicine in particular because of the emphasis it has on problem solving and leadership. That’s what kind of differentiated it from other disciplines for me.”
Harley’s words of wisdom to those who may be pursuing a Dux award of their own was to stay disciplined.
“Build strong habits and rely on discipline, not motivation,” he said thoughtfully.
“Set yourself a clear goal, then create habits to achieve that goal, and then stay disciplined towards that.”
Harley also thanked his teachers, Ms Somerton, Ms Ledlin, Ms Kleyn, and Mr Vaughan, for their efforts in getting him “over the line”.
