Stock Journal Feature: Ian's Journey
February 2026
A recent feature in The Stock Journal proudly shines a spotlight on Westminster's 2026 School Captain, Ian Thomson, sharing his journey from life on a remote Northern Territory cattle station to pursuing his football ambitions in Adelaide.
Ian's journey is one of determination, resilience and leadership. This article explores how Ian’s rural upbringing has shaped his character, work ethic and aspirations both on and off the field, as he balances boarding school life with big dreams in sport.
Ian continues to be a dedicated student at Westminster, both on and off the football field, as highlighted through his captaincy, dedication to his studies, and his leadership within the Boarding House.
Read the full story to learn more about the experiences and values driving Ian’s path forward.
Station life calls for serious dedication when playing college footy
A six-hour round trip to play a game of football takes major dedication and a huge love of the game, especially when a match starts at 8am on a Saturday.
But this was the reality of station life for Westminster School Captain and Year 12 student Ian Thomson, who now studies and plays in Adelaide.
Ian, 17, grew up on a cattle property 40 kilometres west of Katherine in the Northern Territory, called Larrakeyah Station, where his family runs 1700 head of Brahman cattle.
Attending the local primary school in Katherine, pathways to playing footy were limited.
