Pip Kehoe
Pip Kehoe is a great role model for girls passionate about their sport. She has maintained her links to the land and now has a challenging but interesting job working for an energy company in Queensland. Pip is a great advocate for young women in sport and agriculture which is certainly helped by her lovely, bubbly personality as well.
1. What boarding school did you go to?
My sisters and I all went to Toowoomba Preparatory School where we were all given the opportunity to excel in any chosen sporting, academic or musical field. We all participated in sporting teams ranging from swimming, athletics, hockey and rugby (Sally was the first girl to play rugby at Prep!)
2. What was your best experience at Boarding School?
Meeting friends that are to this day the most honest and loyal people I will ever meet. Over the years we have all been there for each other, always been willing to help a hand in tough times, and most definitely been right by your side when you need to have quiet time over a cheeky wine or two!
3. What is your favourite memory from Boarding School?
There’s so many! From cubby houses out the back of boarding houses, sharing clothes and getting ready before the big social dance to heading out on leave with friends for the annual Toowoomba Grammar v Downloads rugby game.
4. What are you doing now?
I am working for an energy company, operating in regional and rural Queensland. It is a controversial industry at the moment, however I believe that my role will help aid our company understand the business operations of landholders in order to come to a mutually beneficial outcome not only in the short term, but in the sustainable long term as well.
5. Has anything you learnt at boarding school helped you with your current career?
Yes definitely; had I not had the upbringing, education and experiences that I was exposed to from primary to secondary school (Fairholme College, Toowoomba), I simply would not be the person I am today; confident, outgoing and most importantly, happy.
6. Any advice for young kids going to boarding school?
Push the boundaries, back yourself and don’t take no for an answer (within reason of cause!). Look people in the eye when you say ‘hi, how are you?’ and have a firm handshake. For the boys, every so often open the door for the girls, say hi and let them win a game or two.
It Runs in the Family.….. Pip’s sister Sally Kehoe also went to boarding school and recently rowed for Australia in the Women’s 8th Final in the London Olympics 2012. And after a stellar effort came 6th. Congratulations Sally and Pip who was over there watching and cheering on her sister and the team.