Travels in Timor

By Ms Tracey Markovic, Assistant Head of Junior School Operations

Since 2009, Radford College has maintained a strong and evolving relationship with Timor-Leste, sending student delegations each year to engage in a unique and transformative experience.

Each year, a group of dedicated students nominate themselves for the opportunity to travel with staff as part of a journey that builds upon the work and connections of those who have gone before. This is not merely a trip; it is a deeply meaningful commitment that begins long before departure.

‘Never to. Not for. But with’ has always been the underlying focus of the trip. We do not go to Timor to ‘do’ anything but rather to be ‘with’ the people of Timor. We go to learn from the Timorese. By spending time in schools, attending church, meeting communities to play soccer, and visiting local museums, students were able to learn more about one of Australia's closest neighbours. Although Timor-Leste is geographically one of Australia’s nearest neighbours, it remains in many ways a world apart. This contrast offers students a powerful opportunity to grow in understanding, compassion, and global awareness.

In the six months leading up to the visit, students and staff met regularly, engaging in learning sessions, cultural education, and personal reflection, all designed to prepare them for the trip.

Throughout the preparation process and during the time spent in Timor-Leste, the group works together to learn about the country’s rich history, diverse communities, and cultural expectations. These insights help shape a more respectful and impactful exchange, where relationships are nurtured with care and humility.

In 2025, a delegation of 20 students and four staff members embarked on this meaningful two-week journey. While the visit itself may be limited in time, the connections made, and lessons learned are lasting. Relationships with communities in Timor have deepened year by year, creating a legacy of shared learning, mutual respect, and enduring friendship.

Old Friends – Eva and Daniel

During our time in Atauro we had a visitor come to Barry’s place to tell us his inspiring story. Mario – also known as Super Mario – shared his experiences from childhood and hopes for the future.

Mario was born in Adara – a village on the other side of the island. Every day he would walk three and a half hours just to get to school and would then have to walk another three and a half hours to get back home. This journey was not an easy one it was a steep and rocky path leading up and down the mountain.

Mario wanted to study and go to university. His father really wanted him to stay home and work, but Mario was committed. He and his dad worked incredibly hard, and his community chipped in so he could study marine biology in Indonesia.

After the course, he came back to Atauro and worked at Barry’s place. He raised money, and built his own resort, Mario’s place, in his village. He also built a house next to Barry’s Place, so students walking from Adara can sleep the night there instead of on the pier between school. He is now trying to build a school in Adara.

Mario’s story was incredibly interesting to hear. His hard work, resilience and hope for the future is truly inspiring.

When asked what Mario wanted for his sons he said the following:

‘I want my son to close the gap.

My dream is to have my son – Henrique – study in Australia.

It is my dream.’

Being in Community – Soccer is Universal - Astrid and Odele

We had not that long arrived on the island of Ataura when Barry let us know that we may have the opportunity to go to a community soccer match to spectate and play against the Timorese people. We all agreed that this would be an amazing opportunity, so we decided that we would go along in the afternoon.

We quickly got ready to go and play soccer and hopped into our transport – an anguna. The road we drove down was quite bumpy, but everyone was filled with excitement. We arrived at the soccer field where we were welcomed to play in a match against some Timorese women.

It was an extraordinary afternoon. Whilst the game was very hot but was super fun and everyone had a smile on their face. Although we were on different teams it felt as though we all made a strong connection with each other, bonding over our shared enjoyment of the game.

Opportunities – Kaiya and Olivia S

Opportunities arise in small situations,

A simple chat, a trip away.

To be able to take the opportunities,

One must be willing to explore.

Explore the possibility of the present,

While staying away from the future.

One must not regret what should’ve happened,

and see the possibility of what could happen,

and one must never let the pressure of expectations,

stop opportunity from being taken.

Meeting the President

Seeing the President of Timor-Leste, José Manuel Ramos-Horta, casually driving through the streets of Dili in his iconic blue Mini Moke may be a familiar sight to locals. However, for us, it was an unexpected and thrilling moment—especially when he recognised us as we walked to dinner one evening. He remembered meeting our group just a few days earlier at Kantina Matak, and his recognition brought smiles and excitement.

Without hesitation, the President slowed his car and, spotting a few familiar faces among our students – Zara in particular - he stopped right in the middle of the road to greet us. With his warmth and approachability, he asked how our trip was going. Road traffic paused around us, but it didn’t matter—President Ramos-Horta took the moment to share another one of his engaging stories with our group, leaving a lasting impression on students and staff alike.

If you are interested to read more about our travels, please feel free to have a look at our Timor Travels 2025 Blog. It has been written by students and is available for all.