MEDIA RELEASE - Sutherland Shire Libraries offer sanctuary and support for studying students

With Higher School Certificate (HSC) exam period fast approaching, Sutherland Shire Council Libraries are once again set to help local high school students navigate the stress and pressure that comes with the later stages of study for their final exams.

Library staff are set to offer support through Council’s annual ‘HSC Rescue’ event, providing a fantastic line-up of activities designed to help students unwind, recharge and conquer their exams with confidence.

Starting from Monday 25 September and continuing throughout the first week of HSC exams, Sutherland and Cronulla libraries will transform into havens of relaxation and HSC preparation.

Students are set to benefit from a range of fun and relaxing activities that promise to raise a smile or sigh of relief. Whether it’s through furry companionship from some specially enlisted canine companions, free neck and shoulder massages, complimentary pizza or mindfulness activities, the libraries have got something to offer every HSC student.

Thanks to the support of St George and Sutherland Mental Health Interagency, expert advice and study support will also be on hand to guide students through their HSC preparation and ensure they can approach their final exams with confidence. Organisations providing activities on behalf of the interagency include headspace, 2Connect, 3Bridges and Family Co.

Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce urged local students to take part in the HSC Rescue event, saying that it was an exceptional way to help ease the pressure that students typically face when preparing for their final exams as high school students.

“Our dedicated library staff love hosting our annual HSC Rescue, which has proven incredibly popular each year in helping to ease the academic pressure that accompanies HSC exams,” Mayor Pesce said.

“These events are open to all HSC students across the Sutherland Shire, with an array of free activities on offer across each of the different afternoons this event is set to take place.

“If you’re a local student preparing for your final exams, I’d urge you to drop into Sutherland or Cronulla libraries as this event is the perfect opportunity to unwind as you prepare to tackle this important academic milestone.”

As well as these activities, students can visit any of our Sutherland Shire Libraries to use dedicated study spaces, where they'll find afternoon refreshment stations stocked with fruit, muesli bars, and sugar hits.

This annual initiative has become a much-loved event for students, attracting a remarkable turnout of 140 students last year alone. HSC Rescue is delivered in partnership with Local Youth Organisations, with the groups highlighting the importance of study support at this pivotal point in students' lives.

Supported by the St George and Sutherland Mental Health Interagency, the aim of HSC Rescue is to help students relax, build resilience, and equip them with valuable coping techniques and expert advice to keep cool under pressure. The event is one of many Council initiatives to help support the wellbeing of younger members of our community.

For more details on the event dates and planned activities, please visit HSC Rescue.