Middle School Production
Schola Car Show Sport
Editor’s Note
ello and welcome to the inaugural issue of Aquinas Chronicle, Aquinas ollege’s new student newspaper It has been created by all of the students the Media Council, a group of students who are dedicated to bringing you e latests news, stories and insights from around the College Thanks for ading what we hope to be the first of many editions to come; and thanks to of our committed writers
ke Bettini, Captain of Media
Editorial Team
Editor: Luke Bettini
Senior Reporters: Zac Keeley
Albie Cowan
Baxter Cowcher
Liam Blackadder
Design Luke Bettini
Ms Feby Plando
Special Thanks: Mrs Kim Budge
Mr Lachlan Bowyer
By Zac Keeley
Aquinas College Middle School students lit up the stage with their 2024 production of We Will Rock You, a show that brought the legendary music of Queen to life The story follows a group of young rebels fighting for freedom in a world where music is banned From classic anthems like “Bohemian Rhapsody” to “Somebody to Love,” students delivered high-energy performances that honoured Queen’s legacy with their own unique style
Months of hard work and collaboration went into the production, with students, teachers, and
parents dedicated to bringing every detail to life
Vibrant costumes, futuristic sets, and dynamic lighting effects transported the audience to a dystopian world where creativity is a bold act of rebellion Under the guidance of director and teacher, Emma Leopardi, students worked together with their peers to create an unforgettable experience
The production was a true community effort The technical crew, made up of student volunteers, ensured smooth transitions and high-quality sound enhancing every powerful moment
As the final curtain fell, the audience’s standing and cheering reflected the success of the show and the commitment of everyone involved
We Will Rock You wasn’t just a performance, it was a celebration of creativity, teamwork, and the transformative power of the arts For Aquinas College students, this production offered a chance for all to shine, make memories, and bond with classmates and students from other schools all while bringing joy to the entire school community in the creation of a masterpiece
Schola Car Show
By AlbieCowan
The Aquinas College Schola Car Show was a total hit this year Sponsored by Jaguar, many incredible cars from around Perth were brought in and showcased right here at Aquinas The event, which was run by our very own Schola Cantorum, was held as a fundraiser for the numerous events and tours that the choir participate in over the year With a wide variety of offerings from cake sales to the Year 9 Car Art exhibition, to listening to the amazing FordGT40’sengineroar,theeventdidnot disappoint
The Media Council played a very special part in this event this year, kickstarting “AC Radio”, a student-run initiative Throughout the event media students Aidan Griffiths, Albie Cowan, and (roaming) Trey Westlake hosted a radio show which was broadcast live across the event
Thanks to everyone involved for delivering amemorableandenjoyableday!
, y a past student as part of his leadership project Each boarding house plays against each other for points in various competitions and the house with the most points at the end of the year wins
The Brother Clery Cup is made up of many different events such as Football, Cricket, Swimming, Basketball, Athletics, and other events; each event allows boys to display their athletic talent and house spirit It isn’t entirely centred around sport though, boys also compete
in “Boarders Got Talent,” an annual talent show This allows boarders to showcase their different abilities and talents that boys don’t regularly get to put on display in boarding, such as music or art “Boarders Got Talent” encourages boys to get out of their comfort zone in a safe space where they are supported by peers while helping to win house points
Last year, Gibney House won by a nail-biter against Nunan House after a three-year-long drought As the season runs from Term Four to Term Three, the 2025 season of Brother Clery Cup is already underway and three events have already been completed House Athletics was won in the last relay by Gibney, who only just beat Nunan Then there was a 3-way draw at Dodgeball after a fierce one-on-one between two
skilled Middle School boys, ultimately resulting in a Pinder Boor victory, securing the draw.
Boarders Got Talent was also a close event with Gibney winning in the end with Nunan a close second. Some of the best events of the night were the Nunan Middle School performance of breakdancing, Gibney's Senior School performance of "I Want to Break Free and "Tequila" performed by the Gibney Year 12"s. In the final event of the term, Swimming, Nunan won by a landslide with multiple boys who are very experienced in swimming. It is hard to tell who will take home the trophy at the end of 2025, but it is expected to be a very close and interesting competition.
GET TO KNOW THE 2025 CAPTAINS
This term Aquinas welcomed a new group of captains We would like to let our readers get to know them as people not just captains All of the captains wrote a short paragraph introducing themselves
Dylan Atkins-Walters - College Captain
Hey! I’m Dylan and I’m lucky enough to be Aquinas College Captain for 2025. Seeing the College’s growth over the last few years has been extremely exciting, and I’ve got some big shoes to fill, but I’m up for the job working with staff, students, and parents around the school to help this continue. Being at Aquinas since Year 4 in 2017 (which, incredibly, is the birth year for some current students!), I’ve had a variety of experiences from a number of perspectives. Junior School was some of my most cherished years at the College, and its ‘community within a community’ atmosphere in the larger scale of Aquinas is something which cannot be replaced in those early years. Whilst I was born and raised here in Perth, that hasn’t stopped me from exploring the wider world. Similar to most boys, sport is a large part of my life. Tennis and Cross-Country are my choices, and Aquinas has provided opportunities for me to accelerate my development and play at the highest PSA level for several years. I am also involved in the arts at Aquinas, participating in the Schola Cantorum and the PCAC Orchestras, which has enabled me to broaden my ideas and creativity.
Christian Pecotic - College Vice Captain
The opportunities offered to me at Aquinas have greatly shaped me into the young man I’m becoming. A sport I enjoy is Rowing – I’ve been at it since Year 7 after Mr Robertson said “Son, If you come to Aquinas, you will row.” I like public speaking (such as Debating), and have a passion for the Humanities and more specifically – Politics and Law. I like to sing, play piano, am involved with Croatian folkloric dancing due to my Croatian culture and have a strong passion for my academics. I am honoured and excited to be the Vice Captain of Aquinas College for the year ahead!
Boarding Captain
Hi I’m Alex Hall, I'm a boarder from a small town called Brookton, where my family has a big farm running crop and sheep. My older brother went to Aquinas, and I also have an older sister, so I’m the youngest in the family. There were only 7 or 8 other kids in my year at Brookton, so Aquinas was a big change. I stay in Gibney Boarding House and study ATAR, which keeps me pretty busy. When I’m not studying, I’m all about sports—whether it’s watching or playing. Footy and Cricket are my main interests, but I enjoy any sport, really. I also like spending time on our farm back home, especially driving around and helping out. It’s a nice change from the school routine. I look forward to leading as the Boarding Captain next year.
Alexander Richardson - Cullity House Captain
My name is Alex Richardson. I’m a sports enthusiast, with Basketball, Footy, and Cricket as my main passions, and I’ve lived in ManningSalter Point nearly my whole life. I love both playing and watching sports whenever I can. Outside of that, I enjoy creative activities, like cutting hair for my friends, and I’m always looking for clothes and shoes to buy and sell. As captain of Cullity House, I’m excited to bring that mix of energy and creativity into making everyone’s house experience enjoyable.
G’day everyone, my name is Sam Johnston and I am the Arts and Culture Captain for 2025. My love for the arts extends outside of my role as Captain – I love to sing both in a choral setting and with my band – and I’ve loved acting in the school’s productions since Year 7. I grew up both on a farm in an area called Jindong (near Busso) and in Dunsborough, where I went to early primary school. I moved to Perth in late 2014, moving right next to the school, where I still live today. I’ve got a few passions in my life – the most obvious of which is performing and music making. I’m also keen on Human Biology, Community Service and a good piece of literature – both reading and writing it! I’d like to pursue both my learning in performance and biomedicine as undergraduate degrees at university – and travel abroad for my postgraduate degree. Overall, I want to be a good bloke for others while living an interesting and unpredictable life – and I’m sure to deliver on both of those in my role as Arts Captain!
Emilio De Chiera - Nunan House Captain
I moved to Aquinas as a boarder in 2023 going into Year 10. I come from Dunsborough in WA’s southwest which is a great place to return to for holidays and EXEAT weekends, especially during summer. At Aquinas I play Footy during winter and Cricket in the summer. I also go fishing and sailing a fair bit when I am at home. I really enjoy the community in Nunan house as well as Aquinas Boarding as a whole and hope to contribute to that through my time as Captain.
Samuel Johnston - Arts captain
Jack Annison - Pinder Boor House Captain
Hi, my name is Jack Annison and I'm the 2025 captain of Pinder Boor House. I am a boarder from the town of Geraldton, which is 5 hours north of Perth, known for its wind and fishing. In my spare time, I enjoy fishing, diving, surfing, playing sports, golf, and spending time with friends and family. Alongside these hobbies, the school sports I play are Footy and Cricket.
Julian White - Durack House Captain
Jagger
My name is Julian White, and I’m honoured to be Durack's Captain for 2025. I’ve lived in Perth my whole life and joined Aquinas in Year 4, back in 2017. Since then, I’ve loved every opportunity the school has offered, and I encourage everyone to make the most of the experiences available. I’m actively involved in Hockey and Cricket both at the College and outside of school, and I also enjoy my music and the cultural side of Aquinas. While sports are a big part of my life, my family and friends remain my greatest focus. I look forward to leading the college and making a positive impact next year.
- Justice, Peace and Advocacy Captain
Hi, my name is Lucas, and I am the Justice, Peace and Advocacy Captain for 2025. As the captain of JPAC for 2025, I oversee and manage my council, endeavouring to develop a medium - informed by the Edmund Rice tradition - to help advocate for a just and peaceful world. Alternatively, I am also engaged within college co-curricular activities such as Debating, Mock Trials and Model United Nations, whilst also participating in the PSA - predominantly Rowing and Badminton. I enjoy participating in academic activities, Rowing, Badminton, travelling (especially Hong Kong and Malaysia) and engaging in world politics.
Bravura - Chaney House Captain
Hello my name is Jagger Bravura, I am the Chaney Captain for 2025. I am proud of both my Italian and Australian heritage, and am grateful for the opportunities I have experienced that shape who I am today. Growing up in Perth then moving to Dowerin, Western Australia, has given me the perfect setting to enjoy an active, outdoorsy lifestyle. When I'm not out on the boat with friends or family, I’m probably on the golf course, working on my swing, or hitting the tennis courts. I’m also a AFL fan and support the Fremantle Dockers, and I love swimming whenever I get the chance. Family time is really important to me, and I enjoy every moment we spend together. Life in Perth and Dowerin gives me the best mix of sports, adventure, and good company.
- Industry and Enterprise Captain
I'm Ben Drage, the Industry and Enterprise Captain for 2025. I grew up in Kalgoorlie, where I spent over 12 years playing sports like Footy, Touch Rugby, and Cricket. My family moved to Perth, and in 2021, I started at Aquinas in Year 8. Since then, I've had great opportunities, including joining development teams at East Fremantle Football Club, earning my skipper's ticket, and completing a Certificate II in Automotive. I'm grateful for the support of my teachers and the chance to balance my time between Aquinas and Kalgoorlie. In Kalgoorlie, I play Football for Railways Football Club and help with our family business, staying connected to my roots while embracing new opportunities for growth.
trick - Inclusive Community Captain
My name is Liam Fitzpatrick, and I am the Inclusive Community Captain at Aquinas College for 2025. I currently study 5 ATAR subjects which include Math, Physics, Visual Art, Design and English. I love my art and design and am looking at pursuing something in the construction/ design space after school at university. I also love my sport; I play Basketball and 1st Hockey whilst watching numerous amounts of others such as the AFL and the NBA. As the Inclusive Community Captain, I strive to create a welcoming environment for all new students as well as accommodating for the needs of current students.
teere - Sustainability Captain
Hey, I’m Jack Lee Steere, the Captain of Sustainability for 2024. I’m one of the many Captains that are boarders, my hometown being Boyup Brook, and I live in Nunan. My main hobbies include reading and a game called “Dungeons and Dragons”, for which I am running a club for Year 11s and 12s. As for my plans after school, I want to go to university after completing my CERT in Business and do a course in teaching to become a drama teacher, as I want to show kids and teenagers how fun and valauable it can be.
calfe-Singh - Student Wellbeing Captain
I'm Charlie Metcalfe, the current Captain of Student Wellbeing at Aquinas College. I joined the school in late 2023 as a day boy. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned here is the value of integrity, which I believe everyone should strive to uphold. I was born in Perth, Australia, with a mixed heritage of Kiwi and Singapore-Indian roots. Outside of school, I’m passionate about traveling, exploring new technologies, and educating others. In my role as Captain of Student Wellbeing, I aim to create a positive and supportive environment for my peers, helping them thrive both personally and academically. I’m committed to making a difference in our school community, guided by the values I’ve learned at Aquinas.
Isaac Ashe - Prendiville House Captain
Hello, my name is Isaac Ashe, and I am the Prendiville House Captain for 2025. I live in East Fremantle, and I started at Aquinas in 2020 for Year 7. My dad attended the college, graduating in 1985, and my brother just recently graduated in 2023. At the College, I participate in Rowing during the summer season, and AFL/Cross-Country for the winter season. One of the biggest things I enjoy at the College is playing these sports with my mates throughout the year. In terms of schooling, I do a workplace learning trade of residential electrical each Friday as well as my normal weekly classes.
Xavier Bianchini - Sport Captain
My name is Xavier Bianchini. As far as I can remember, I’ve always loved playing sport. It has been a large part of my life whether I’ve been playing Basketball, Athletics, Soccer, Cricket or Footy. I also love going down south with my family and heading down to the beach. I love surfing and biscuiting with my friends and family and enjoy being out in nature. I come from a big family where I am the second youngest kid out of 5. I am super excited to be the Sport Captain for 2025 and can’t wait to get started on some big initiatives for next year.
Luke Bettini - Media Captain
Hi, I’m Luke Bettini, the media captain for 2025. I live on a cattle station in the Pilbara 100 kilometres north of Port Headland, almost a million acres in size, called De Grey station. Being so isolated, I never had the chance to participate in team sports when I was younger, and that’s something I really enjoy at Aquinas. In summer, I play Tennis, and in winter I play Soccer. Although I am not skilled in either, I still try my best and enjoy myself regardless. When I go home on holidays, I like to go hunting, fishing and camping, along with helping out with mustering and cattle work. I’m looking forward to 2025 even though it will be a challenge to juggle the responsibilities of studying ATAR and being Media Captain among other commitments.
Zachary Bower - Service Captain
I am Zachary Bower, the 2025 Service Captain. I participate in Rowing and was training with both Cross Country and Badminton over the winter season. I also engage in many co-curricular activities as apart of the College. This includes the Law Society Mock Trials, Model United Nations and Interschool Debating, while also getting heavily involve in both the Service and Arts of Aquinas. I have also achieved Service Honours along with being a part of Middle School Choir, Percussion Ensemble and Intermediate Concert Band, over my years at the school. One of my favourite things to experience is travelling. I enjoy going to new places to see differing cultures and customs of the world. This passion has made me a well travelled person whereby I have visited 20+ significant cities both Internationally and domestically, with many smaller towns along the way. My most recent significant travel experience was to the Philippines as part of the Immersion, where I went to indulge in the rich Filipino culture and serve regional communities with a group of 12 boys.
Perth Otero - Divinity Captain
I’m Perth Otero, Divinity Captain for the Class of 2025. I’m a bit of a nomad with hobbies. You might find me jamming on my guitar, biking with my brothers, or playing video games like GTA V, Minecraft, and Assassin’s Creed. I also love spending time with family or exploring the outdoors. Music is a big part of my life. I play acoustic and electric guitar, covering indie, rock, OPM, and alt tracks. My favorites include songs like Charlie Brown by Coldplay, Impossible by Nothing But Thieves, and Toyang by Eraserheads. Whether I’m studying or commuting, these tracks are my constant companions. On the Volleyball court, I’m the setter for Aquinas’ First VI team and play for Reds Junior Volleyball Club’s Division One Reserves. I’ve been playing since Year 6. The sport has given me more than skills and has built a sense of community with teammates from all walks of life. Faith is central to who I am. I’m active in my Church, serving as an Altar Server at Saint Jerome’s and a member of SomTeens. As Divinity Captain, I aim to lead inclusively, building a council that welcomes and uplifts everyone in our school. I hope the council can push for this!
Captain
Hi, my name is Jason Sutisna, and I am the Captain of Academics at Aquinas College for 2025. I was born in Sydney, but my family’s Indonesian heritage has greatly influenced my upbringing and identity. Tennis has been a major part of my life for the past 10 years, shaping my discipline and passion for sports. Academically, I have a strong interest in the sciences and aim to pursue a career in engineering. Outside of school and sports, one of my favorite ways to unwind is watching movies with my family, a hobby that brings us closer together.
Jason Sutisna - Academic
Term 4
Photo Wall
2024 Sport Season
By Liam Blackadder
Sport has always been a cornerstone of Aquinas College life, deeply embedded in the school's culture since its founding As a key competitor in the PSA competition across summer, winter, and special seasons, Aquinas has long been celebrated for its success in Football, Athletics, and Rowing While recent years have offered only scattered victories, 2024 marked a triumphant resurgence for the school’s sporting programs
The 1st Football team led the way with a historic victory, reclaiming the coveted Alcock Cup for the first time since 2018. In a memorable season, Aquinas dethroned Scotch College, who had held the title for four consecutive years This longawaited triumph was a testament to the team’s resilience and hard work, reinvigorating school spirit
The 1st Volleyball team added to the year’s highlights, clinching the PSA championship after a hard-fought battle with rivals Hale The season came down to the decisive matches between these two dominant teams, with Aquinas ultimately prevailing and cementing their status as champions
A notable addition to the school’s successes this year came from the Water Polo program The 1st team triumphed in the Dickinson Shield, overcoming Christchurch in an impressive display of teamwork and skill This victory further underlined the depth of talent and determination across Aquinas’ sports teams in 2024
Beyond these headline wins, other programs showed remarkable improvement The 1st Hockey and Soccer teams, which had languished in the lower rankings in 2023, delivered impressive comebacks to secure top-three finishes These performances offer a promising outlook for the 2025 season
the special seasons brought mixed results but no shortage of effort The Swimming team, despite relentless early morning training sessions, faced a challenging year at the Interschools competition However, the squad is already hard at work preparing for the 2024/2025 season with renewed determination
Meanwhile, Athletics remained a key pillar of Aquinas’ sporting heritage The school’s proud history is reflected in the Alcock Shield, which is permanently housed in the Castle at the heart of the campus This year’s Athletics team gave everything they had, finishing as runners-up to Scotch College by just 62 points Their tenacity and commitment exemplified the school's enduring ethos of striving for excellence
While senior teams often capture the spotlight, Aquinas’ Middle School and Junior School teams are also making their mark, proudly representing the college across all disciplines These young athletes compete with enthusiasm and determination, laying the foundation for the future Among them could be the next Aquinas superstar, ready to carry forward the school’s legacy of sporting excellence
As 2024 draws to a close, Aquinas celebrates not only its victories but also the progress and potential shown across all its sporting programs From the Junior School to the senior teams, the college is united in its passion for sport With momentum building and a legacy of success to uphold, Aquinas eagerly anticipates even greater achievements in 2025
