FISH - magazine of Aquinas College | Term 4 December 2021

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the magazine of Aquinas College

TERM 4 / DECEMBER 2021


FISH 2021 Term 4 / December 2021

CONTENT 05

30 Copyright notice Published by: Aquinas College This material has been reproduced 58 Mt Henry Road and communicated to you by or on behalf of Aquinas College Salter Point Western Australia pursuant to Part IVA Division 4 of the Copyright Act 1968 (the Act). fish@aquinas.wa.edu.au Editor The material in this communication Kate Spencer may be subject to copyright under kate.spencer@aquinas.wa.edu.au the Act. Any further reproduction or Communications Officer communication of this material by you may be the subject of copyright Ashayla Ramsay ashayla.ramsey@aquinas.wa.edu.au protection under the Act. Events & Alumni Inside photography:Total Sports events@aquinas.wa.edu.au Photography, Lews Photos, Aquinas staff & students, various donated submissions.

Principal’s Address

4

End of an Era for Boarding

5

Extended Day

6

myFUTURE

7

Derby Reflection

8

AC Boys Take a Stance

9

2022 Captain’s Speech

10

Old Aquinian’s Serve the Homeless

12

Standing on the Shoulder’s of Giants

14

Past College Captains’ Day

16

PSA Golf Day

17

Annual Father Son Evening

18

Old Aquinians & Friends Tour

19

Winter Sport Update

20

Red Haze Day 2021

22

Edmund Rice Day

24

College Website Update

26

Holy Ground Coffee

28

Cover Image: Prof. Francis Campbell, Vice Chancellor, with Kurtis Tanna (‘22) & Alec Jorgensen (‘22) at Notre Dame University. Photographer: Kate Spencer


Br Clery 70th Jubilee

30

Foundation Update

32

P&F President’s Update

36

Pars

38

Senior Old Boys Day

42

2022 Calendar

43

Reunions

44

Condolences

48

Congratulations

49

Aquinas Business Directory

50

42 Why the name ‘Fish’?

Fish

In 1934 when Ken Kelsall first attended CBC Perth ‘Fish’ was the term universally in use to describe the bread and jam afternoon snack that was provided for the boarders. At the time Ken was told that the term had its origins in the earliest days of the College. In an article by Bob Hannah in the ‘Fish’ of November 1962 there were two very similar accounts, one from Sir Thomas Meagher and one from Reg Cooper, speaking of the tradition springing from the first day of the College’s existence. They recall ‘Fish-Ho!’ being shouted to call the boys to their afternoon snack. The practice of giving boarders an afternoon snack named ‘Fish’ was continued when the move to Mount Henry was made in 1938.


4 – FISH

Principal’s

ADDRESS David McFadden Principal

IS AQUINAS COLLEGE A SCHOOL OF THE FUTURE?

of everyday life, such enormity

what still needs to be addressed if we

of change by our community has

are to meet the challenges presented

been difficult and I would like to

by the World Economic Forum?

acknowledge both parents and staff for your efforts and acceptance of such change. The introduction in Years 11 and 12

1.

Global citizenship skills: Include content that focuses on building awareness about the wider world; sustainability and playing an active role in the global community.

2.

Innovation and creativity skills: Include content that fosters skills required for innovation, including complex problemsolving, analytical thinking, creativity and systems analysis.

3.

Technology skills: Include content that is based on developing digital skills, including programming, digital responsibility and the use of technology.

4.

Interpersonal skills: Include content that focuses on interpersonal emotional intelligence, including empathy, cooperation, negotiation, leadership and social awareness.

5.

Personalized and self-paced learning: Move from a system where learning is standardized, to one based on the diverse individual needs of each learner, and flexible enough to enable each learner to progress at their own pace.

6.

Accessible and inclusive learning: Move from a system where learning is confined to those with access to school buildings to one in which everyone has access to learning and is therefore inclusive.

7.

Problem-based and collaborative learning: Move from process-based to project- and problem-based content delivery, requiring peer collaboration and more closely mirroring the future of work.

8.

Lifelong and student-driven learning: Move from a system where learning and skilling decrease over one’s lifespan to one where everyone continuously improves on existing skills and acquires new ones based on their individual needs.

of the Aquinas myFUTURE program is a prime example. The creation of an online learning platform to meet

The World Economic Forum’s

the challenge of COVID in 2019, has

white paper “Schools of the Future”,

now been adopted each Friday by

recommends how all schools need to

the College, with all Year 11 and 12

develop to ensure quality education

students learning online. In doing

that prepares the global citizens and

so, it prepares them for university

workforces of the future 1. The paper

learning and has also enabled the

outlines eight key components of

introduction a range of creative

future schools (see box).

options and new partnerships with

Schools and teachers are challenged

external providers, which would

to develop future-ready students

otherwise not been possible.

because they need to be equipped

Examples include:

with the tools to do so and face

Universities – Both Notre Dame and

competing demands for resources.

UWA now provide study options

For such an established traditional

which have tertiary recognition.

College, Aquinas has had to make

Vocational – The student based “Holy

a number of significant changes to

Ground” Coffee Company provides

its structure and operations in an

certification and work experience.

attempt to move its path towards

Business – In excess of 30 student

the demands of the future. From

“white collar” internships

the adoption of a common teaching

As we move into the final wave of

and learning model, developing

change, in addition to securing and

three-school pastoral structures,

fine-tuning the changes made, we will

assessment/reporting and a new

also hopefully see the introduction of

student leadership model, few

a new and exciting final development.

areas of the College have remained

So how have we done? How are we

untouched.

meeting the eight key components

Whilst change has become part

of future schools? What is working,

1-Schools of the Future: Defining New Models of Education for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (World Economic Forum 2020)


5 – magazine of Aquinas College

END OF AN ERA FOR BOARDING Ross Meadows

Director of Gibney House / 2022 Head of Boarding

has made us all better at our jobs.

will be greatly missed as they move

residential community in 2017 as

But most importantly, he is a good

off campus but are always welcome

Director of Gibney House, and before

person – an Old Boy of the College

back, and everyone at Aquinas College

the end of that year it was clear that

who embodies the concept of being a

thanks Hendo for is outstanding

he was the ideal candidate to step

“man for others”.

service over such a long period of

into the Head of Boarding role. He

Together with his wife Nicole, Sean

time.

has held this position for the past

has taken Boarding at Aquinas

four years and has decided it is time

from strength to strength and in the

to move on to the next phase of his

process has been an inspiration for

working life. Sean’s association with

numerous students, staff and even

Aquinas College goes back to his

parents. His calm demeanour, strong

time as a student, Class of ‘81 as

sense of justice and empathy for

well as taking on the role of Acting

others make him a hard act to follow

Principal for an extended period this

in the role of Head of Boarding, but at

term. His reputation within Boarding

the same time he is the perfect person

was made very clear by the incredible

to follow, as in challenging times

reception he received from students,

the first question I will ask is, “What

staff and parents at the 2021 Year

would Hendo do?” Sean and Nicole

12 Boarding Graduation, where a standing ovation and rapturous applause acknowledged his wonderful contribution. Sean is an outstanding mentor and role model. His sense of humour is an asset and his gift for retaining an anecdote or funny story for months, and sharing it at the perfect moment is legendary. As his successor and someone who has worked under his leadership over the past four years, I cannot speak highly enough of what he has done for Aquinas Boarding. His guidance is always supportive and caring, with the best interests of the boys at the core of his actions. He is a strong advocate for his staff who

What would Hendo do?

Sean Henderson joined the Aquinas


6 – FISH

EXTENDED DAY Nicole Monzu

Head of Junior School

BECAUSE THE STANDARD WORK DAY DOESN’T MATCH SCHOOL HOURS The introduction of the extended day

teacher is available. As well as

program in the Junior School at the

various choirs, dance clubs, sport

beginning of 2021 was a new addition

training, percussion and orchestra

to the wonderful opportunities

clubs. After school the boys have

already on offer for our students, that

a break between 3pm and 3.30pm,

has the added benefit of supporting

where they have supervised play and

our families.

afternoon tea. At 3.30pm there are

We recognise that many of our

varied clubs on offer each week; early

families comprise of double income

years play, Lego, STEM, cooking,

earners where both parents are in

woodwork, podcasting, photography

the workforce during the day. The

and academic challenge are just

8.30am-3pm time limitations are

a few of the options. As well as

not ideal when parents are working

basketball, soccer, Latin and Chinese,

longer days. For this reason, a

which incur a fee. From 4.30pm

complimentary service is provided

onwards any boys who require further

for our community to enable parents

supervision are in an after-school

to have their sons cared for in the

club until 5.30pm

one place with familiar faces and fun

Overall, the clubs have been a huge

activities.

success. Boys seem to really enjoy

From 7.30am each morning until

the variety of opportunities on offer

5.30pm each afternoon boys have

and get to play and enjoy a different

the option of attending a club where

aspect of school. They feel safe and

staff support and care for them

supported and families can hopefully

whilst their parents are working.

be fully present for their sons when

Each morning there is a before

they are with them. Our aim is always

school club where boys transition

to put student needs first and we

into the day with a book, game of

believe we have the balance right for

chess or chat with the supervising

our working families.


7 – magazine of Aquinas College

myFUTURE

Graham Powell

Director of Aquinas myFUTURE

Aquinas myFUTURE provides our

This success is largely attributed to

the help of Dimatina Coffee, some of

students with a blended learning

the Aquinas Community and Old Boy

our students have completed barista

model that allows for a greater degree

network for answering the call and

training and completed hours working

of flexible learning, particularly on

volunteering their workplace. Such

in the Holy Ground Coffee van.

Fridays. The introduction of regular

was the response, that we had more

The flexibility creates time for

Friday classes delivered as vodcasts

workplaces than students.

students to have organised visits

allows our students to pursue other

Other successes are simply providing

to our universities. This enables the

interests and explore beyond the

opportunities. Opportunities to display

boys to walk the grounds and do

stipulated curriculum. The absolute

and develop transferable skills, such

workshops, an authentic “try before

successes of the program would be

as time management, communication,

you buy” experience. This allows

the Internship Program that allowed

teamwork and problem solving.

the transition to university, and the

approximately 23 of our Year 11

Opportunities to commit to service

pathway they choose, to be less

students an insight into the world of

learning and assisting in PSA

daunting than it needs to be.

work, and for some, a future pathway

Middle School sport as umpires or

as some students have already been

officials. Opportunities to gain micro

offered casual work over the summer.

credentials and short courses. With

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EXTENDING AN OPPORTUNITY TO A STUDENT PLEASE EMAIL GRAHAM.POWELL@AQUINAS.WA.EDU.AU


8 – FISH

Derby REFLECTION Max Christie (’23)

The Derby Immersion is an experience

particular highlight of this trip for me.

be attributed to the teachers who

that I will treasure for the rest of my

Talking and interacting with some of

navigated the journey with us. Their

days. The trip started with a detour

the local kids, swimming in gorges,

efforts were very much appreciated by

to Port Headland and this diversion

sliding down mud banks and hiking

all the boys on the trip. I know I speak

was to foreshadow the schedule of

mountains with the kids on our

on behalf of the group when I offer all

the trip. Covid-19, the heat and several

backs or in our shadows are certainly

the teachers a sincere and heartfelt

bus breakdowns wreaked havoc on

memorable moments.

‘Thank you’.

our itinerary, however, the flexible

Adversity often reveals interesting

and variable nature of our schedule

and unforgettable moments. The

actually layered the adventure.

bus broke down, it was 35+ degrees

The opportunity to experience the

and the realisation that we might be

colours and landscapes of Broome

there for a while finally began to set

and Derby and the vastness of the

in. The hours passed slowly, however,

region really is an opportunity of a

we were elated to hear the rumbling

lifetime. Windjana Gorge is a sight

sound of rescue. The looming

that will be etched in my mind forever.

anticipation of air-conditioning

The grandeur of the natural scenery

approaching via our rescue bus

was breathtaking, yet the experience

caused us to break out in song. These

would not be the same if I didn’t have

incidental moments can’t be scripted

a great group of mates to share the

into an itinerary, yet they are some of

journey with. The sense of community

the moments I will remember forever.

shared with the local people was a

The trip’s success can certainly


9 – magazine of Aquinas College

ACTake BOYS a Stance Sean Henderson Head of Boarding

Those of us who signed this card below, each an Old Boy of Aquinas College, extend our congratulations to the present day students who took a stance against the unacceptable behaviour to female students at a social event as reported in the West Australian Newspapers on August 13. Your response was correct and with it your school, your parents and a host of Old Boys are justifiably proud. Thank you.

On August 13 this year, an article

least 80 years old, gather consistently

the card at Mass on Sunday 19

titled ‘Boys’ Show of Force’ appeared

for a coffee and a catch-up in Kings

September 2021 and were extremely

in the West Australian newspaper.

Park.

proud to receive it. Thank you to the

The article outlined how a group of

Whilst the behaviour of our students

group of Old Boys who went to the

Year 9 and 10 boys from Aquinas

at that social event was most

trouble of putting the card together.

had helped several female students

impressive, the fact that a group

from various schools who had been

of elderly Old Boys took the time

indecently assaulted at a recent

to put together their thoughts and

social event.

send them through to the College

A couple of weeks after this

was equally inspiring. The continued

newspaper report, a ‘Thank You’ card

interest, care, and support shown

arrived at the College.

towards Aquinas by so many of our

The card had been signed by 21 Old

past students, such as the gentlemen

Boys who had all graduated from

who signed that card, is a wonderful

Aquinas between 1947 and 1957.

trait of this College.

These gentlemen, all of whom are at

The boys were presented with


10 – FISH

2022 Captain

SPEECH

Ashton Teixeira (‘22)

We must never forget that the Aquinians of today will one day form a part of the story for those who come after us.

a part of the story for

field, in a classroom or on a stage.

those who come after

Speaking of stages, I’d like to take this

us. This is our chance

opportunity to formally recognise the

to add to the story.

incredible work of Ollie Lim over the

We need to do our

past months. He set himself the goal

utmost to make the

of raising $500. At last count, he’d

best contribution that

raised $46,000, largely from within

we can. We will not get

the Aquinas College Cowmmunity.

another chance.

What an incredible effort! When boys

To others, the crest may

like Ollie raise the bar, we all benefit

appear to be a symbol of entitlement,

from having such examples to follow.

Good morning, staff, students,

arrogance or ignorance, but not

This is what a culture of excellence

parents and official party. My name

to an Aquinian. To an Aquinian it

entails. A desire to be the best we

is Ashton Teixeira and it is an honour

means so much more, it is the thing

can be. It’s in our blood, the power

to stand before you today as your

that connects all of us to the sacred

of the red and black, calling on all of

College Captain for 2022. Before I

brotherhood which is everlasting, and

us to leave our own personal mark

begin the substantive component of

it reminds us of our connection to

on the College and beyond. To do

this speech, I would like to tell you

the place that we will forever be able

so we must show courage, and in

a bit about myself and my Aquinas

to call our home. We must wear the

many different forms. A battle will

journey.

crest with pride. We must wear it well.

never be won by a man who accepts

My time at Aquinas began almost 8

We must demonstrate to the broader

what he knows is wrong and chooses

years ago in the Junior School’s most

community that we acknowledge

to do nothing about it. Courage is

prestigious class - 4 White. It was in

that we are privileged to have an

found in going for that mark or taking

my earliest years where I began to

Aquinas education, and that we will

that penalty, but it’s also found in

first understand what it means to be

honour that opportunity by being

questioning ideas, standing up to

an Aquinian and the weight that such

the best people we can be, not for

bullies, choosing to say no, admitting

a privilege holds. As time went on,

ourselves, but for the people around

a mistake or asking for help. Courage

this understanding grew. I now know

us. Being an Aquinian is a full-time

is easier to describe than it is to

the importance of the crest which

commitment. We might take off the

embody. We will all fail to embody

represents more than one hundred

blazer sometimes, but the values are

this virtue from time to time, myself

years of rich history, and the legacy

within us.

included. But the measure of a man

of thousands of Aquinians who have

Aquinians have long cherished a

is not how he experiences success,

gone before us.

culture of excellence. We thrive on

but how he learns from failure.

We must never forget that the

the successes of ourselves and our

Boys, we’re a team, a team with a

Aquinians of today will one day form

peers, whether it be on the sporting

foundation of support and respect


11 – magazine of Aquinas College

for each other, a team that’s success

and support each other in times

thing, boys, and there’s a reason

is a culmination of our courage, our

of struggle, standing beside our

that it’s worn so close to the heart.

passion and the relentless desire

brothers with the willingness and

Historically, crests were to tell the

to be more than just an Aquinas

courage to start those awkward

stories of families, dynasties, and

College student, but to become

conversations that need to be had.

they were worn into battle. To fight in

an Aquinian. One of the most vital

Always remember that if you’re

medieval times without a crest upon

parts of a successful team is the

going through a rough patch, the red

your armour was to fight for nothing

shared commitment amongst

and black family will undoubtedly

at all. There are crests to be seen

its members to hold one another

welcome you with open arms. As

everywhere at Aquinas, but in reality,

accountable. You must have the

a school, we have made it through

there’s only one. Cherish your time

courage, and the personal integrity,

difficult times and I truly believe

being a part of it because as any Old

to call out those of your peers who

that as a community we can survive

Boy will tell you, in the blink of an eye

act in ways which may tarnish

anything. On the other side of any

your time at the College will be over.

our reputation, and in particular,

struggle, we will emerge united,

The dawn of a new year will provide

the reputation of those who’ve

because our bond is too strong to be

a clean slate for all of us. It gives us

come before us. Men like Alaric

broken.

an opportunity to sit back, reflect,

Pindaboor, JJ Savage and Brother

As James Kerr, writer of the book,

and analyse the year that has passed,

Bryan Clery. You must not accept

Legacy, once said, “a society grows

while also making decisions and

anything other than excellence and

great when old men plant trees

setting goals for the future. A new

you must not allow the actions of

whose shade they will never see.”

year gifts everyone the opportunity

others to compromise your values

In the past week, the class of 2021

for new beginnings, no matter what

and choices. Veritas Vincit; Truth

has graduated, handing over the

bumps you may have experienced

Conquers, is our College’s motto,

mantle to the new graduating class.

in your journey to date. I would

but have you stopped to think about

It’s a surreal feeling and it’s honestly

encourage all of you to take the time

what it means to you? Can you relate

quite scary to think that my time at

in the coming weeks, to separate

to it? Personally, I believe that, not

this great school is nearly over. This

yourself from the stress that may

only does it relate to being true to

is it, our last leg of arguably one

come with school or sport. Take

others, but it also relates to being

of the most valuable journeys that

time to truly reflect on what you have

true to yourself. As a team, we’re only

we will ever undertake. Personally,

achieved in your journey, and what

as strong as our weakest link, so in

I love Aquinas and I will forever

your goals and aspirations may be.

striving to do our best, we must strive

be grateful for the opportunities

To my fellow peers; the class of 2022.

to achieve, encourage, inspire and

that it has provided for me. In the

We each have one final page to write

support.

coming year, I plan to give back in

in our College journey. Will your page

The year ahead is going to be a

every way possible, “Planting trees”,

be filled with the times that you have

busy one, as myself, Hamish and

which will contribute to my legacy

given back to the College? Or will it be

the rest of the elected Captains aim

and eventually “provide shade”

left blank? The crest doesn’t have the

to consolidate what the Captains of

for the generations of Aquinians

power to make you act. In the end,

2021 left behind. For all of you, 2022

who will walk the guard of honour

the choice is yours.

will be a rollercoaster of highs and

after me. The crest is a powerful

Thank you

lows, with each and every journey being unique. Please, boys, try to remember that behind the many faces you see every day are stories and struggles you do not know. This is why it is so important to practise kindness and affirm the value of the people around us. It is vital that we stick together


Old Aquinians Serve the Homeless John Richards

Director of Service Learning

This month I had a chance conversation with Tim Power (‘05) whom I earlier discovered was already driving for other Red Cross Soup Patrol teams over many years. As I always do, I made sure to exchange numbers in case he would be interested in leading an Aquinas team. Tim works FIFO during the week and is only home on weekends, but he gladly jumped at the opportunity to reconnect with Aquinas for this important service and went on patrol on a Sunday. That made him the oldest Aquinian to take part in this service which celebrates its 25th year in 2021. Aquinas teams have completed

experience and passion for this

of life and some have been leading

1880 patrols and delivered nearly

service began when they were in the

Aquinas students for many years.

50,000 meals! Twenty-five years is

Senior School. A program like this

Some start as soon as they come

a long time for a volunteer service

‘pulls at the heart strings’ because

off their P plates and are still at

program to keep going. In that time,

it can be so profound. For the first

uni. Others are now in professional

past drivers have been awarded

few patrols, people tend to wake up

careers but still make time to lead a

National and State volunteer medals

a little bit to the fact that we have

team. Two are past College Captains

and certificates and Aquinas College

rough sleepers on the streets of

and one is a former College Dux! It

was the first organization to receive

Perth. Then, after a while, you begin

is such a thrill to get a phone call

the Australian Red Cross’ inaugural

to take notice of some of the stories

‘out of the blue’ from a past student

National Team Award in 2019.

from the ‘regulars’ and you cannot

wanting to be involved in the service

Like all the Old Aquinians who now

help but admire their courage,

program. Like Tim, we have three

lead Soup Patrol teams, Tim’s first

resilience and gratitude for the

Old Boys who are on FIFO but who

I allowed myself to appreciate

how alike I was, we all listen to the same music, live in the same city, just some of us are

born into more advantaged lifestyles than others. - Cohen Ridgwell

simple meal and chat

still want to be involved whenever

they had. It is both sad

they can. Apart from the experience

but humbling.

of serving the homeless, many tell

In recent years, except

me how thankful they are to remain

for two or three staff

connected to Aquinas by way of

members or parents

meeting young students as they give

who have been involved,

up their time to go on patrol. They

almost the entire roster

are invariably asked the questions

of eight patrols a month

about ‘how they became involved?’

is led by an Old Boy!

and ‘why they still volunteer? It is

These past graduates

both good and noble to see an Old

come from all walks

Aquinian engage with current senior


13 – magazine of Aquinas College

boys to share their thoughts about doing something that is not related to work, sport, money or success. The boys themselves – especially the boarders- can’t help but take notice. Some of their part-time and live-in House Masters are Soup Patrol drivers! In their reflections, they always mention the team leaders they had. Old Boys help in other ways too. Over the summer of 2020-2021, there were also a handful of Old Aquinians involved in Salvation Army Breakfast Patrols as well as assisting at the Doorways Depot during Christmas Cheer. For this year’s Winter Sleepout, four past students volunteered for the ‘graveyard’ shift to patrol the boys as they bravely slept in the cold. Once again, it is their willingness to serve and the joy they experience when they are able to help others. Sometimes just meeting one another and knowing they weren’t the only ones volunteering, can be such a thrill. Together, these fine young men continue to make ‘every day at Aquinas a better day for others’ and the College and our wider community are so much better for it. For more information on the Red Cross Soup Patrol or to volunteer please contact John Richards. service@aquinas.wa.edu.au

SERVICE


14 – FISH

Standing on the Shoulders of Giants

THE VALUE OF TRADITION AND COMMUNITY Stephen Spencer (‘96) We live in amazing times. Despite the

part of a community. The knowledge

traditions, weaves its way into our

devastation caused by the

that we are a part of something much

lives and provides a tangible link

Covid -19 pandemic, human beings

bigger than ourselves. Communities

between generations. It doesn’t

have never been safer, more

can manifest in many different ways,

matter if you graduated in 1973 like

educated, or had more opportunities

and we can belong to a wide variety,

my Dad, or 2021 like my son. We can

to pursue the life they have dreamed

but true communities share very

now share in the quiet joy that comes

of. Sure, there are examples where

similar traits. In many of the most

from knowing we all shared in a

this is not the case, but if you

powerful and long-lasting, tradition

tradition. Our day-to-day experiences

zoom out and view humanity in the

is the glue that holds communities

may have been different, but the

aggregate, in historical terms, we’ve

together.

strength of the Aquinas community

never had it better.

Traditions themselves can also take

has only grown.

This should be celebrated, but in our

many different forms. They can form

My son Aidan (‘21) was only at

rush for safer, more comfortable, and

part of a ritual, they can be a set of

Aquinas for Year 12. We had lived

technologically controlled lives, we

behaviours, or a framework used

overseas for the previous six years,

have neglected some aspects of our

to help guide us through difficult

and it was only the pandemic

humanity that are nearly as important

situations. They can also evolve over

that forced us to return. It was a

to our well-being as the air we

time. What all the best traditions

difficult time for our family, but I

breathe or the food we consume.

provide however, are the keys that

will be forever grateful for what it

Many of us are experiencing a

give us access to a community.

gave to Aidan. He is now a part of

crisis of connection. Even though

Aquinas College is a true community.

the Aquinas College community,

we are nearly all connected online,

Many will talk about its “rich

and a family tradition has been

there is an epidemic of loneliness

traditions”, without really being able

strengthened.

and isolation that is at the heart of

to define exactly what they are.

Too often, we dismiss tradition in

many of the issues we are dealing

And that’s ok. It doesn’t need to be

favour of innovation. The pursuit of

with right now. Several recent social

defined or categorised. It just needs

new discoveries and the desire to

experiments have demonstrated

to be felt.

constantly improve on the past, are

what most of us intuitively know;

Despite having graduated 25 years

noble and worthy goals. But if the

human beings need to belong.

ago, it is only now that I am able to

past is ignored, if the traditions that

We long for the honest, deep

fully appreciate the way the Aquinas

got us here are simply wiped away

connection that comes from being

College community, and its rich

like notes on a whiteboard, then


15 – magazine of Aquinas College

we risk living in a perpetual cycle of

from much of the pain of loneliness

building blocks of our communities

reinvention, with no known start point

and disconnection that is rampant in

and foster them so future generations

and no acknowledgement that our

today’s world.

can continue to grow the legacy of

cultural wisdom is built in the past

It also serves as a reminder, that

those that have come before us.

and is passed on through traditions.

despite the glory and glamour of

In his three decades of teaching

individual achievement, true joy is

literature at Stanford University,

only possible when we feel we are a

author Robert Pogue Harrison has

part of something much bigger than

spent much of his time imploring his

ourselves.

gifted young students to maintain a

In his homily delivered during the

connection with the wisdom of the

Graduation Mass last month, College

past. “Genius liberates the novelties

Chaplain Father Rodrigo reminded

of the future, and wisdom inherits

everyone present of the power of

the legacies of the past, renewing

community when he quoted Pope

them in the process of handing them

Francis; “Rivers do not drink their own

down,” Harrison writes in his book

water; trees do not eat their own fruit;

Juvenescence.

the sun does not shine on itself, and

Traditions are the best method we

flowers do not spread their fragrance

have to sanctify reciprocity with our

for themselves. Living for others is a

past and build on the wisdom that

rule of nature. We are all born to help

resides there. The desire to innovate

each other, no matter how difficult it

and improve is a core human trait

is. Life is good when you are happy,

that should always be encouraged,

but much better when others are

but if we simply dismiss tradition

happy because of you.”

as an antiquated and unnecessary

If there is a vaccine to the

burden, we may further condemn

disconnection crisis that is plaguing

ourselves to a life devoid of

us, it will be found in community. So

meaningful community. By embracing

we must strive to build the strongest,

our traditions, and committing to

most robust communities possible.

a community, we shield ourselves

We must embrace traditions as the

If I have seen further,

it is only by standing on the shoulders of giants

-Isaac Newton, 1675


16 – FISH

PAST COLLEGE CAPTAINS’ DAY 22 OCTOBER 2021


17 – magazine of Aquinas College

PSA GOLF DAY 18 OCTOBER 2021

Back Row (L-R): Paul Cresp, Peter Lynch,Paul Ness,Ricky Roderega,Bernie Hogan, Shane McLinden, Tony Power, Peter Gelmi, Harry Seward, Gerard Taylor Front Row (L-R): Simon Ness, Mick Stroud, Rob Hesford, Bevan Lawrence, Phil Willis

Mick Stroud with the PSA Golf Shield

Since 1959 the PSA has hosted an

the 18 holes. To win, the PSA takes

out the PSA Golf Cup. Christ Church

annual golf competition, allowing

the four best scores across each

came in second with Trinity in third

Alumni to don their old school

school.

and Aquinas in fourth.

colours and reignite their College

Historically, the domination of this

Determined to come back and

spirit. This year, the 62nd event took

competition has drifted between

dominate in 2022, Mick Stroud and

place at the Cottesloe Golf Club on

three schools – Scotch (with 22

Phil Willis (’76) have taken over the

Monday 18th October.

wins), Hale (with 15 wins) and,

running of the event and are already

Traditionally, the competition is

of course, Aquinas (with 9 wins).

putting the call out for Old Boys to

played in the individual Stableford

This may come down to pure

join in next year. With the cooperation

format – which for non-golfers is

representation in numbers, but we’ll

of Aquinas College, we’re even set

a popular format that allows an

call it the skill of our players anyway.

to have uniforms, featuring a snazzy

individual golfer to play the course

This year Aquinas had 16 Old Boys on

new Alumni exclusive hat and shirt

on his own merits, allowing for a

the course. The top four scorers for

design. The Cottesloe Golf Club

player to pick up the ball and move

our team were Simon Ness (‘90) with

has been booked for a Friday in late

on if they’re struggling at a hole,

35 points, Shane McLinden (‘77) with

October 2022 with the exact date

thus keeping up the rate of play and

33 points, Peter Gelmi (‘79) with 32

to be announced closer to the time.

belaying frustrations. This type of

points and Mick Stroud (‘75) with 39

Once a date is confirmed, all Old Boys

play is congruent to both individual

points. Mick also earned himself the

will be notified, and we encourage all

and team play as it is a points-based

position of ‘top scorer’ for the event.

to attend.

system with the aim to accumulate

However, Scotch’s overwhelming

the greatest number of points over

numbers once again saw them take BOTH MICK AND PHIL ARE VERY KEEN TO RECRUIT OLD AQUINIANS WITH CURRENT GOLF HANDICAPS SO REACH OUT TO EVENTS & ALUMNI COORDINATOR, NICHOLE ROWSON FOR MORE INFO – EVENTS@AQUINAS.WA.EDU.AU


18 – FISH

Annual Father Son Evening The annual Father Son night occurred

to be a good person, what a good

set some goals for the future for our

on Wednesday 22 September. After

man is and how they might grow into

boys. Unfortunately, our external

not being able to take place in 2020

these roles. In a world where we are

expert who has run the event in past

due to COVID restrictions it was

always busy, the Father Son evening

years was unable to travel due to

amazing to be able to re-introduce it to

is a rare but important opportunity to

COVID restrictions. Aquinas’ own Craig

the calendar this year. The evening is

spend quality time connecting with

Herbert ran the event in Dr Arnie’s

a wonderful opportunity for our dads

each other. The Fathers shared stories

absence and did a superb job and

and significant male role models to get

and lived experiences of their lives at

the parent feedback was that it was a

together with their Year 8 sons. They

their son’s age which were extremely

worthwhile event and a great way to

spent time discussing what it means

valuable and also assisted in helping

end Term 3.


19 – magazine of Aquinas College

OLD AQUINIANS & FRIENDS TOUR 2021 Dr Jack Bana (‘54)

The 15th annual coach tour of Old

display, Witchcliffe Shell Museum,

However, we have visited most of the

Aquinians & Friends was held in the

an avocado farm, and a great time

key sites in the southern corner of

first week of November with a total of

playing croquet.

WA bounded by Kalbarri, Menzies and

45 people. We were based in Margaret

The Old Aquinians taking part were

Esperance. These tours have raised

River and over five days and visited

graduates of the 1950s, with numbers

a total of around $62 000 for the

many venues and engaged in a variety

boosted by friends and relatives. Five

Aquinas College Foundation.

of activities. Some of the highlights

couples dropped out of this year’s tour

included Busselton Jetty Underwater

due to illness or incapacity, and the

World, the Wow Illusion Centre,

age group is such that unfortunately

Mammoth Cave, Eagle Heritage raptor

any further tours will not be viable.


WINTER SPORT Kristian Leeson Acting Head of Sport

1st Team Final Standings Badminton

Cross Country

Football

1.Wesley College

1. Aquinas College

1. Scotch College

2. Scotch College

2. Christ Church Grammar School

2. Aquinas College & Wesley College

3. Christ Church, Hale School &

3. Wesley College

4. Hale School

Trinity College

4. Hale School

5. Guildford Grammar School

6. Aquinas College

5. Scotch College

6. Christ Church Grammar School

7. Guildford Grammar School

6. Trinity College

7. Trinity College

7. Guildford Grammar School Hockey

Rugby

Soccer

1. Hale School

1. Trinity College

1. Aquinas College

2. Wesley College

2. Hale School

2. Scotch College

3. Christ Church Grammar School

3. Scotch College

3. Hale School

4. Scotch College

4. Christ Church Grammar School

4. Christ Church Grammar School

5. Guildford Grammar School

5. Aquinas College

5. Trinity College

6. Trinity College

6. Guildford Grammar School

6. Wesley College

7. Aquinas College

7. Wesley College

7. Guildford Grammar School

Congratulations to James O’Neill,

2009. Subsequently, Ben West was

student getting the opportunity to

Mark Cummins and our Senior

a student at that time and played

showcase his skill at Senior School

School Cross Country team who

within the winning team. The team

1st team level, Liam Capes. The

claimed the Moyes Trophy for the

was lead by Captain Eligh op den

Football program across all year

winning school. The team was

Dries, who capped off a great year

levels continues to have healthy

lead by Captain Ethan Wyatt-Smith

with a spectacular goal in the last

numbers with 16 teams playing on a

who again showed his dominance

match of the season against Trinity

weekly basis.

throughout the season, along with

College. The First XI Soccer team

I would like to thank the

Luca Di Toro, Samuel Brennan and

will continue to be strong in years to

staff, coaches, ground staff,

Thomas Millard and this lead to

come.

medical staff and ICT staff

the team winning the trophy for the

Outside of Senior School 1st teams,

for their contributions to the Middle

fourth consecutive year. The team

there were many more positives

& Senior School Winter Sports

consisted of students from Year 7 to

from the 2021 Winter Sports season.

program. It is very much appreciated

Year 12 and was a great example of

The Shield Rugby team finished top

by both the students and myself. The

inclusivity within the Sports program.

of their division, with signs looking

Sports program wouldn’t be the

Additionally, Congratulations to Dean

promising for the Rugby program

same without all of their hard work,

Evans, Ben West, Sarina Woods and

moving forward and strong numbers

dedication, support and guidance of

our 1st Soccer team who claimed

going through at Middle School

the boys. Additionally, we are very

the Lawe Davies Trophy for the

level. The Middle School A Hockey

privileged to have a fantastic grounds

winning school. Aquinas has not

team had some impressive wins

and facilities team on campus. So,

won the Soccer competition since

throughout the season, with one

thank you!


21 – magazine of Aquinas College

Athletics I was proud of what we were able to achieve on Friday 10th September as a team at the PSA Athletics Carnival. Aquinas started well in the 1500m and hurdle events and established an early lead ahead of the other schools. Aquinas continued to perform well throughout the day in the middle distance and sprinting events and our throwing events saw an improvement from last year. Aquinas led by 60 points, going into the last section of the carnival the 4 x 100m relays. Unfortunately, Scotch proved too strong in the relays and were able to close the gap. Even though we didn’t come away with the overall win, we exceeded all expectations, the students performed admirably and they were all able to showcase their talents. We displayed outstanding sportsmanship throughout the day towards each other and the other competitors in the Carnival. PSA Athletics Carnival 1. Scotch College - 1615 2. Aquinas College - 1612 3. Hale School - 1521 4. Christ Church Grammar School - 1429.5 5. Trinity College - 1308 6. Wesley College - 1138.5 7. Guildford Grammar School - 819 There were some outstanding individual and team performances throughout the day, and many students achieved personal bests. I hope to have all students on board again next season. The future is very promising, and if all students stick together and commit to the Athletics program from the start, we will be hard to beat in 2022. It was a pleasure working with the coaching staff, which was made up of a good mix of both teachers and external coaches. I would like to thank all the coaches for giving up their time throughout the 4-week program.


22 – FISH

RED HAZE DAY Kristian Leeson Acting Head of Sport

On the 14th of August we saw the

fantastic to see so many families and

College come to life in floods of red

Young Aquinian’s, as well as Old Boys,

and black for Super Saturday. On this

come together to spectate a wide

day, all Senior School teams from

range of games. I would like to thank

Aquinas College and Hale School

Steve Burke, the Ground Staff, the P&F

competed against one another. The

Committee, Megan Monks, Ashayla

College’s grounds were on full display

Ramsay, Kate Spencer and Nichole

and many spectators came through

Rowson, who did a lot of work in the

the gates to enjoy the festivities and

lead up to the event and on the day to

support the Sports program. It was

ensure everything ran smoothly.


23 – magazine of Aquinas College

14 AUGUST 2021


24 – FISH

EDMUND RICE DAY 05 MAY 2021


25 – magazine of Aquinas College


26 – FISH

Showcasing the College AC WEBSITE UPDATED Ashayla Ramsay

Communications Officer

The world moves at a rapid pace.

and exploring further into the different

parents with a step-by-step guide of

The pandemic has accelerated the

opportunities the College has to offer.

the process and lets them book a tour

need for a digital transformation for

Given the traditions, it was important

of the campus online.

Aquinas College. One area that was

to highlight the alumni that have

The design was taken straight from

deemed in need of updating was the

passed through the College gates.

the student’s uniforms – black with

College website.

By highlighting key alumni it not

red stripe highlights which enables

This campus is busy - there’s always

only adds to boys’ journey but it

the website to reflect the strong

something going on and there is so

emphasises the diversity of life

branding that is the uniform. The use

much on offer for the students. This

pathways alumni have taken.

of video to highlight life at the College

was, for many prospective families,

A blog was also introduced to the

adds much to the appeal of the site.

the first introduction to the College,

website. With the transformation in

With consistent photography and

and so it became a top priority for the

how messaging is received and a

videography now occurring at the

College.

reliance on digital communication,

College, the content can be continually

Alongside an updated and mobile

the introduction of the blog became

updated.

friendly design, the goal was to take

the central point from which College

The amazing work and patience of

viewers on a journey from the Early

information is shared to students and

the teams at Digistorm and Cooch

Years and engage with them as they

families. The introduction of the blog

Creative added to the process

move between different schools,

and revamping of all of the content on

resulting in a website that continues

highlighting the themes of Arts,

the website – following an SEO plan –

to showcase the College in the best

Academics, Sports and Faith. This

has greatly enhanced the website.

possible light.

allows a parent to see the entire

The enrolments section is a

journey their son could undertake

significant area of the website.

during their years at the College.

Parents don’t want to spend hours

Analytics have shown that parents are

trying to locate relevant information.

now spending longer on the website

The new enrolments area provides


27 – magazine of Aquinas College

Parents are now spending

longer on the website and different opportunities the College has to offer.

exploring further into the


28 – FISH

Holy Ground Coffee

THE STORY BEHIND THE BREW Amanda Wilson

Manager - Holy Ground Coffee

Have you stood on Holy Ground and

on the events. Most days you will

tasted the warm comforting brew,

find us nestled against the pool wall

made with care and purpose?

facing reception alongside our café

Holy Ground Coffee has almost

seating area. The early morning

completed its first full year on

walkers and joggers dash past for a

campus and many would say they

long black on the run. Then come the

can’t remember life before the happy

drop-off parents who may linger for

little red van. It’s a hive of activity

a chat under our umbrellas over oat

as the Year 11 and 12 students

milk cappuccinos and soy flat whites

prepare everything from almond

after treating their boys to foaming

lattes to toasted bagels from sunrise

hot chocolates with marshmallows.

everyday. The familiar grind and

Next, the teachers appear before

knock interrupts the music and

duty or in a break period for strong

laughter pouring out from the front

flat whites and our famous bagels.

hatch as parents, staff and students

Finally, it’s the boys’ turn to take over

line up for their daily caffeine fix.

the seating with their toasties, iced

And what a year it has been! We have

mochas and banter.

served our PSA sporting spectators

Holy Ground Coffee creates

and Reds Clubs over weekends.

community amongst education. It

We have brought great coffee to

brings another level of learning to

the College community all week,

students as they navigate the skills of

travelling around campus depending

listening and talking with customers,


29 – magazine of Aquinas College

IT BRINGS ANOTHER LEVEL OF LEARNING TO STUDENTS AS THEY NAVIGATE THE SKILLS OF LISTENING AND TALKING WITH CUSTOMERS, WORKING UNDER PRESSURE, BEING ORGANISED AND CONSISTENTLY GIVING THEIR BEST. working under pressure, being

student who works at Holy Ground

enabling boys to attend Aquinas

organised and consistently giving

Coffee has completed a certified

College who may not have been able

their best. The students are taught

Barista Course on campus at our

to.

to monitor inventory, be responsible

training school within the Churack

But EVERY coffee from our window

for set up and pack down, cleaning,

Pavilion. They may then be selected

counts. Whether it’s a skinny long

cash up and work processes. Their

for either casual paid employment

mac or an iced latte, it counts! Every

attention to detail in the coffee making

as required, or part time paid

meeting and catchup under our

process, together with the finest

employment of 7.5 hours per week.

umbrellas counts. Every time you treat

ingredients, result in an experience

This enables them to complete the

your boy to a prepaid hot drink card,

worth stopping for.

practical side of a Certificate III in

it counts. Thank you for supporting

Did you know that on sporting days

Retail. Students are rostered on before

our goals. Together we can keep this

and events our baristas are putting

and after school hours and around

project going for many graduating

out more than one coffee every

their core subjects. Both ATAR and

Aquinians.

minute? Baristas must be organised,

General Pathway students can take

focused and committed! They serve

up this awesome opportunity. We are

our past Aquinians at catch-ups, our

getting young men work-ready for

new parents at orientation and every

their life after school and equipping

passing visitor to the school. Holy

them with skills that are relevant in

Ground Coffee really is a showpiece

many workplaces.

for the high expectation of our Senior

We have huge goals for our little

School students.

coffee shop. We’ll be contributing to

This project has purpose. Every

the Bursary Fund annually, thereby


30 – FISH

Br Clery

70

TH

JUBILEE


31 – magazine of Aquinas College

A SELECTION OF MESSAGES FROM OUR COMMUNITY AS BR CLERY CELEBRATES 70 YEARS AS A CHRISTIAN BROTHER


32 – FISH

FOUNDATION Update

LOUISE SYMONDS Executive Officer Aquinas College Foundation

The biennial Foundation Ball at Crown

raised funds for the new Music School

past midnight.

Perth on 4 September was a glittering

and Recital Hall Project.

Special thanks to Chris McMillan for

night to remember as the broader

International opera singer and current

his exemplary MC duties and to Josh

Aquinas College community came

parent Paul O’Neill (’96), along with

Brockhurst (’92) from Century 21

together to celebrate the spirit of our

soprano Harriet Marshall, kicked off

Team Brockhurst for conducting the

College and to raise funds to benefit

the evening in style with a selection

live auction.

current and future generations of

of some of the most famous operatic

Thank you to our major sponsor,

Aquinas boys.

arias and duets. At the other end of

Karlayura Group, all our other donors

After securing one of the hottest

the evening, Diamond Road Band

and sponsors and our 560 Foundation

tickets in town, 560 guests enjoyed an

didn’t disappoint, with three solid

Ball guests; your tremendous support

evening with friends that included fine

45-minute sets that rocked the venue

for the 2021 Lights, Camera, Action!

dining and live entertainment, as they

and filled the dance floor until well

Foundation Ball - our 7th biennial


33 – magazine of Aquinas College

2021 LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! FOUNDATION BALL A GLITTERING SUCCESS! Foundation Ball - raised more than

support team on the night, including

$80,000 for the Music School and

representatives from the Ladies’

Recital Hall project.

Auxiliary and Aquinas College staff;

No Foundation Ball would be

and thank you to the Aquinas College

possible without the tireless efforts

staff who provided support behind the

of our volunteers: thank you to our

scenes pre and post event.

Foundation Ball Committee comprising

The Foundation Ball will now take a

Emma Chapman, Danielle Green,

well-earned two-year break before

Caroline Bryndzej, Fiona Gebauer,

the 2023 Foundation Ball. Be sure to

Claire Griffiths, Emely Jakovich Jodie

mark your diaries now and start the

Trezise, and Chair Louise Symonds for

countdown.

months of hard work; thank you to the

SAVE THE DATE FOUNDATION BALL 2023 SATURDAY 2 SEPTEMBER 2023 CROWN GRAND BALLROOM


34 – FISH

THANK YOU

to all our 2021 Ball Sponsors • • • • • • • • • • •

Beaumaris Escape Beryl Hillstead Wine Company Birighitti Family Brad Hogg Alumni Braidwood Investments (WA) Pty Ltd Brian Tucker Century 21 Team Brockhurst Cox Family Elle Design Rugs Fisher Family Hang Out on Preston

• • • • • • • • • •

Hickman Family Hugh Lydon Jakovich Family Josh Brockhurst Junior School Visual Arts Students Kennedy Family Murray Family Nat Fyfe Paul O’Neill Robyn Bowler


35 – magazine of Aquinas College

WELCOME BACK CLASS OF 2020! Ashley. “Thanks to your generosity

reminder to the community of the

the Foundation hosted the annual

and the generosity of your parents,

generosity of the Class of 2020.

Aquinas College Foundation Leavers’

another boy – who commenced at

Thank you to everyone who helped

Function, welcoming back more than

the College this year – is receiving

to make the evening a huge success:

60 boys from the Leaving Class of

all the benefits of a life-changing

representatives from the Ladies’

2020.

Aquinas College education, the very

Auxiliary, the OAA and the Foundation,

Over a sausage sizzle in the Staff

same opportunities you all received.”

class tutors, Peter Robertson

Common Room, the boys enjoyed the

President of the Old Aquinians’

and Nichole Rowson from the

chance to catch up with classmates

Association (OAA), Matthew Noonan-

Development Office, and Alliance

and class tutors and have a first look

Crowe (’99), also addressed the boys,

Catering.

at the 2020 College Annual.

welcoming them to the OAA and

Best of luck to the Class of 2020 as

Foundation Chair and Old Boy Ashley

encouraging them to take advantage

you navigate the next exciting stage

Bacon (’92) warmly welcomed

of the social and networking

of your lives. We look forward to

the graduates, highlighting the

opportunities available to them

many more opportunities to welcome

importance of the Leavers’ Function

through membership.

you back to Aquinas College.

as an opportunity for the boys to

Before the boys headed off-campus

P.S. If you left your Annual behind

connect back to the College and each

to continue their celebrations, the

on the night, please contact Nichole

other in their first year out of school.

plaque commemorating the Class of

Rowson to arrange collection.

“It’s also an opportunity for the

2020 Scholarship Gift (which hangs

Nichole.Rowson@aquinas.wa.edu.au

Foundation and the College to thank

in the Heritage Room alongside

you all for contributing to the Class

previous Peer Scholarship Gifts) was

of 2020 Peer Scholarship Gift,” said

unveiled and will be a permanent

2021 ANNUAL APPEAL FOR BURSARIES: TOGETHER WE DID IT!

OUNDATION

On Friday 17 September 2021,

Dylan Blair (‘16)

Generosity is one of the hallmarks

will enable the College to provide

enriched.

of a strong and united school

life-changing opportunities to

If you would like to contribute to the

community. At Aquinas College, one

more boys like Dylan Blair (’16)

2021 Bursary Appeal before

of the most powerful expressions of

who would otherwise not be able

31 December 2021, please visit the

generosity is the Annual Appeal for

to attend Aquinas College. Dylan

online store on our website. Tax

Bursaries.

has now graduated from Notre

receipts in the name of ‘Aquinas

Thanks to the generosity of our

Dame University with a Bachelor of

College Foundation Inc. Scholarship

school community, the 2021 Annual

Biomedical Science.

Fund’ ABN 93 078 219 075 will be

Appeal for Bursaries has so far

The opportunity to provide students

issued by the Foundation for the 2022

received a staggering $139,000 in

with these bursaries, ensures the

financial year.

contributions. These contributions

College and the community will be


36 – FISH

AQUINAS P&F 2021 President’s Update Mat Scott It has been my great pleasure and

Old Boys and past parents) come

additional financial support. The

privilege to serve as the President

together on the College grounds

nature of these projects are typically

of the Aquinas Parents & Friends

to socialise well into the evening.

above that of normal College

Committee (P&F) now for nearly

Traditionally the P&F run the bar, and

operational spend, but do not meet

three years, and what an interesting

the food service is well supported by

the criteria for funding from the

time that has been with the many

our fraternal volunteer groups such

Foundation. We aim to ensure that

changes that have taken place at

as the Ladies Auxiliary (LAX) and

families who contribute financially

Aquinas and across the world during

the Parent Support Group (PSG). In

to the College will benefit from these

this period! The P&F has three broad

recent years we have also assisted

projects while their sons are still a

objectives, being to foster connection,

with building a sense of community

student. Examples of recent projects

community and education, across

spirit and pride in our boys on “Red

sponsored by the P&F include the

and within the entire Aquinas

Haze Day”, being the last home fixture

raisable wall in the swimming pool

community. These three objectives

of the PSA winter sports season. In

that allows for greater use of this

are interlinked and we believe are

2021 we had BBQs, manned mainly

important asset, the telescope

essential to building and maintaining

by the Middle School students

dome on the science block, the

strong bonds between students,

(who did an excellent job), a pop-up

Junior School playgrounds and

parents and the College itself.

uniform shop for spectators to get

contributions to a range of other

The P&F regularly hosts engagement

fully kitted out in the red and black,

cultural, historical and spiritual

meetings at the College (aiming

and volunteers helping in all manner

initiatives.

for at least one per term) where a

of other areas as well. It is great to

The P&F, along with the other parent

guest speaker from the College will

see such a high level of Aquinas

and volunteer groups, have had a

give a short presentation to parents

College community spirit regularly on

challenging time during COVID, with

on what is happening now and is

display.

events cancelled or rescheduled, new

projected for the future. We aim

In respect to parent education, the

rules and regulations about social

for a mix of speakers so that we

P&F works with the College staff to

distancing and other governance

receive an update across all areas

identify relevant and pressing topics

requirements, but overall these

of the College, including the arts,

concerning the development and

challenges have been met with

sport, academics, and character

welfare of our boys. We bring in guest

determination, resilience and good

development just to name a few. The

speakers to present to parents on a

humour. As I prepare to hand over

P&F also sponsor the network of Year

range of subjects; often this may be

to a new committee at our AGM in

Group Coordinators and Class Reps

a session with a speaker who has

November, I am very thankful for the

(Junior School) to help provide a

already talked to the boys during

support received from the College

means for parents to connect outside

school, to give a parent perspective

Leadership, staff and particularly

of school time, with financial support

and to help encourage discussion

the ‘parents and friends’ of Aquinas

to host events to help establish a

around the ‘dinner table’. In recent

– especially those who have

strong sense of community within

times we have had topics such as

volunteered to join the committee

each year group.

study habits and awareness of the

and help make it all happen. We

At a College level, we also host the

dangers and pitfalls facing young

have a great Aquinas community,

annual sundowner which is held early

adolescents.

which I know will go from strength

in Term 1. This is a fantastic event

Finally, the P&F works with the

to strength and I am excited for the

that has been growing every year,

College Leadership Team to advance

future.

where parents and friends (such as

a number of projects that require


37 – magazine of Aquinas College

Events LAX / P&F / PSG


38 – FISH

Pars HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHTS LOCAL TALENT HomeGrown Music Festival, which

with many months of planning and

intends bringing more local, original

was held in the sleepy wheatbelt town

hard work. But it proved worthwhile

music to Nungarin again next year.

of Nungarin on Saturday October 9,

when eight WA bands graced the

was the brainchild of Mick Caughey

stage performing original music for

(’87). His son Tom (‘19) is a musician

the listening pleasure of the 400

and has a band that performs at a

attendees.

number of different venues in Perth.

Mick was fortunate enough to rally

After going along to many of these

together a small, but enthusiastic,

performances, Mick decided it was

group of volunteers to help with

time to bring an idea he’d been having

organising the festival. Being a

to fruition and create an event to

member of a small community and

highlight some WA talent and give

the associated clubs and sporting

locals access to fabulous live music.

groups had provided previous

Quite an undertaking and deviation

opportunity and experience at

from his usual farming operation.

organising events, but nothing quite

When first floating the idea, the

on this scale. Having the combined

generous support from the Shire of

experiences of the volunteer group

Nungarin and businesses far and

and their individual skillset made the

wide provided the confidence to go

process enjoyable and effective.

ahead. The reality of organising such

The success of the festival was

an event was a huge undertaking

beyond all expectations and Mick

King Ibis featuring John McAndrew (‘14) on drums

COUPLE RECOGNISED FOR CONTRIBUTION TO COMMUNITY John Perry (‘65) and wife Bella have been honoured in the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours list for their selflessness, commitment and dedication to their local community. The Halls Head couple have been supporting local groups through their Charity, the John and Bella Perry Foundation, for decades. The charity supports youth, health and medical research as well as the arts. John & Bella Perry / Jake Dietsch - Coastal Times


39 – magazine of Aquinas College

NATIONAL MUSEUM TRAILBLAZER Old Aquinian Trevor Kennedy (‘59)

a rare miniature portrait of First Fleet

broke new ground in April when he

Surgeon-General John White, and

became the first Old Boy to have an

a grand longcase clock made by a

exhibit named after him displayed at

convict transported to Australia in

the National Museum of Australia in

1815.

Canberra.

The Museum has described the

The Trevor Kennedy Collection of

purchase as the greatest acquisition in

Australiana, consisting of more

its history, and said it would “open up

than 5,000 historical artworks and

new vistas and new horizons”.

objects, is said to be one of the finest

Trevor came to Aquinas in 1958

collections of its type. It includes rare

from CBC Albany and was a strong

as Editor of the National Times

and eclectic objects spanning the

contributor to College activities.

newspaper and the Bulletin magazine.

early colonial period to the 1960s.

In 1959 he was a member of the

He was later Managing Director of

Trevor donated items valued at

Alcock Cup football team, rowed in

Consolidate Press Holdings, controlled

about $7 million – said to be the

the Head of the River First Eight and

by the Packer family,

biggest donation in the Museum’s

was a College Prefect. He was also a

In 1983 he was appointed a Member

history - and the Museum paid more

prominent swimmer.

of the Order of Australia (AM).

than $8 million for the rest of the

He pursued a successful career in

objects. Among the prize items are

journalism in Sydney, with terms

OLD BOYS REWARDING EXCELLENCE

Thank you to the following Old Aquinian’s who sponsored subject prizes for students who demonstrated academic excellence in Year 12 2021. Quentin Lau (‘92)

Hilary Lau (‘93)

Quentin attended Aquinas College from 1985 to 1992.

Hilary studied at Aquinas from Year 5 until graduation in

In 1997, he graduated with a degree in Architecture

Year 12 before going on to a double-degree in Law and

and returned to Hong Kong to commence his career

Commerce at the University of Western Australia. He is a

as an Architect. He now specializes in and provides

partner at a leading international law firm Herbert Smith

consultancy advice on residential property development

Freehills. Hilary’s practice is focused on the energy and

at the Summit Homes Group. He is one of the most

resource sector and Hilary has been the head of the Asia

experienced development Architects in Perth. He is

Energy Practice for the firm and ranked as the leading

married with a daughter at Santa Maria College and

individual as one of the best energy lawyers in Asia.

a son at Aquinas College. Quentin kindly sponsored

Hilary is married with one son who is eleven years old.

a monetary prize for the Year 12 Subject Dux for

Hilary kindly sponsored a monetary prize for the Year 12

Economics ATAR as well as Human Biology ATAR.

Subject Dux for Politics & Law ATAR as well as Marine & Maritime Science General.


40 – FISH

MR WATERPOLO INDUCTED TO SPORT AUSTRALIA HALL OF FAME Thomas “Tom” Hoad, born 22nd

Olympic Game event since the 1960s.

March 1940, graduated from Aquinas

A true West Australian at heart, he

College in 1957. Perhaps part fish,

coached the Fremantle Mariners to

he went on to be appointed to the

three Australian National League

International Swimming Federation

titles and currently coaches the

(FINA) in 1968 and was chairman

Melville and WA State juniors.

for the 1988 World Swimming

In 1994 he was made a Member

Championships here in Perth. In

of the Order of Australia (AM) for

1960, 1964, 1958 and 1972, Hoad

his service to sport. In 2003 an

represented Australia at the Olympic

international water polo cup was

There are two ways that you may

Games – acting as captain from 1964

named after him. In 2009 he was

recognise Tom Hoad (‘57) – through

– 1972. Refusing to leave his beloved

inducted into the Water Polo Australia

his work in Australian water polo

sport behind, he went on to coach the

Hall of Fame. 2011 saw him inducted

or through is amazing collection of

Australian water polo team in 1976,

into the International Swimming Hall

outrageous suits. It was the earlier

1980, 1984 and 1988. In fact, it may

of Fame and just this year, 2021, he

that recently saw him recognised and

be because of Hoad that Aquinas

was inducted into the Sport Australia

honoured.

has been represented in most every

Hall of Fame.

MUSICAL SUCCESS FOR OLD AQUINIAN Daniel Watts (‘18) has continued his

2022, the short film was awarded

success in musical composition.

Best Student Film at the Top Shorts

Daniel is a final year student at UWA

Film Festival, and in September was

undertaking music specialist studies,

selected to screen at the London

with a focus on music composition.

and Moscow Shorts Film Festivals

During 2019 and 2020, Daniel

respectively. The film was awarded

collaborated with Curtin University

Best Score in the London Shorts Film

media students to compose the

Festival.

musical score for the production of a short film, titled Deep Blue. In April

AQUINIANS REPRESENT AT OLYMPICS Within the elite of Australian

our men’s hockey team. Standing as

debut in the Australian swimming

sportsmen and women that

captain of the team, Aran played a

team. Competing in the Men’s

competed in the (delayed) 2020

key role in the various victories of the

4x100m Freestyle Relay and Men’s

Tokyo Olympics Games were two

side. In the end, he led the team on a

4x200m Freestyle Relay, Zac and his

Aquinian boarders.

successful campaign, bringing home

team walked away with two bronze

Aran Zalewski (‘08) represented

a silver medal for Australia.

medals.

Australia as part of the Kookaburras,

Zac Incerti (‘13) made his Olympic


41 – magazine of Aquinas College

ROWING STREAK REMEMBERED In April 2019, Mike Adlam handed

he was heavily involved in athletics,

over to the College the CBC rowing

with Langley Park his training track

blazer worn by his father Joseph

of choice. A veteran of WWII, his

Adlam (’29) who was part of a record

name can be found in our Book of

breaking First Four crew that won

Remembrance located in the College

back-to-back Head of the River titles

Chapel. Thank you to the Adlam

in 1928 and 1929.

family for their contribution to the

These two wins were part of a

rowing history of Aquinas College.

glorious 6-year Head of the River winning streak for the College that lasted from 1926-1931, with all 6 winning teams coached by rowing legend and old boy C.J. Wroblewski. According to Mike, his father was a keen sportsman and enjoyed his time at Aquinas. As well as rowing,

THE COLLEGE CREW, 1928, WINNERS HEAD-OF-THE-RIVER Standing - W. Slater, G. Scott (Reserve), F. Pimley Sitting - J. Adlam, Mr C.J. Wroblewski (Coach), J. Hayton, D. Doyle (Cox)

OLD BOY HANGS UP PRINCIPAL’S HAT Peter Bothe (‘72) initially trained as a

Peter concludes his career after

Psychologist, and began his teaching

twelve years at Sacred Heart College.

career in 1979 at Aquinas College …..

Peter’s innovative approach has left

without a teaching degree.

its mark on the schools he has led.

He then spent eleven years in total

Catholic Agricultural College became

as a school Psychologist firstly

a registered training organisation.

at Aquinas, followed by Guildford

St Luke’s benefitted from strong

Grammar School and Wesley College.

industry partnerships through the

Peter’s passion for student

Karratha Education initiative.

wellbeing saw him appointed as

Peter’s leadership extended to the

Deputy Principal of Ryan Catholic

Catholic Secondary Principals of

Community School in Townsville

WA where he served as President

before three years as Head of Middle

for six years. He also served as a

School at Kingswood College in

Director on the Catholic Secondary

Melbourne.

Principals of Australia for three years

He returned to WA and to Catholic

and was Deputy Chair of the Western

Education in October 1999 as

Australian College of Teaching after

Principal of Catholic Agricultural

four years of service. Peter was

College, now Edmund Rice College in

awarded a State Fellowship of the

Bindoon.

Australian Council of Education

After four years and a term, he moved

Leaders in 2016 and in 2020 was

to Principal roles at Trinity College in

awarded the NEiTA Founders’

East Perth for 18 months, before four

Principals Award for Leadership.

years at St Luke’s in Karratha.


ANNUAL Senior Old Boys Day

OLYMPIC STORIES AMUSE APPRECIATIVE GUESTS

Olympic Games veteran Tom Hoad

(‘54), also attended the lunch.

the impressive array of extra-

entertained fellow Old Boys and

The Olympic theme was linked with

curricular activities now being offered

their partners with Olympic stories

the success of younger Old Boys,

at the College. An excerpt from the

at the annual Senior Old Boys Day at

hockey co-captain Aran Zalewski

recent Lion King production was a

Aquinas College on August 25.

(‘08) (silver medal) and swimmer

highlight.

Tom (‘57), who was one of three

Zac Incerti (‘13) (two swimming relay

Father Rodrigo da Costa Ponte

Aquinians in the 1960 Rome team,

bronze medals) who performed at the

celebrated Mass in the Chapel of St

represented Australia in water polo at

recent Tokyo Games with distinction.

Thomas Aquinas, delivering a brief

every games up to 1988, either as a

Other Senior Old Boys who spoke at

but pertinent homily.

player – including a stint as captain -

the lunch of their time at the College

Special thanks for another most

or coach.

and subsequent careers included Bill

enjoyable Seniors Day must go to

He spoke with pride at the lunch in

de Gruchy (‘47), Mike Erickson (‘58)

Nichole Rowson, the Events and

the Hughes Dining Room of how he

and Rob Kilderry (‘58) and Chris Back

Alumni Administrator, and Brother

watched fellow Aquinian Herb Elliott

(‘66).

Robert who helped organise the

(‘55) win his famous 1500 metre gold

The popular event included a

Mass before returning to classroom

medal in world record time in Rome.

welcoming complimentary coffee

duties.

And guests were delighted that the

served from the College’s Holy

College’s third representative at those

Ground Coffee van, followed by a

games, oarsman Max Cunningham

special assembly which showcased

22 OCTOBER 2021

Peter Kennedy (‘59)


43 – magazine of Aquinas College

CALENDAR EVENTS

REUNIONS

19 March 2022

15 January 2022

Head of the River at Champion Lakes

Class of 1995 Reunion

Aquinas College hosting

11am The Camfield Tickets $20 per person from the College Online Store

1 April 2022

includes a welcome drink and light lunch

Year 7 Grandparents Day

Any queries, contact Todd Paterson email todd.p@kpaarchitects.com or call 0416259526

28 April 2022* ANZAC Day Whole School Assembly

17 February 2022

10.25am – 10.50am

Class of 1952 Reunion 9.30am – 2pm

7 September 2022

Various locations at Aquinas College (invitations will be

Senior Old Boys Day including a bespoke Assembly

posted and emailed)

9.30am – 2.00pm Various locations at Aquinas College (invitations will be

15 March 2022

posted and emailed)

Class of 1962 Reunion 9.30am – 2.00pm

25 October 2022

Various locations at Aquinas College (invitations will be

Past College Captains’ Day

posted and emailed)

9.30am – 12.15pm 22 or 29 July 2022 TBC 9 November 2022*

Class of 2021 Reunion & Sausage Sizzle

Remembrance Day Assembly

(receive 2021 Annual)

10.25am – 10.50am

6.00pm – 7.00pm @ Aquinas College 7.15pm onwards drinks at the Mt Henry Tavern, hosted by

Date TBC

the OAA

2022 Beverley & Districts Combined Public Schools Annual Dinner. Hosted by Scotch College Calling all Old Boy Year Representatives and Captains. *If you are an Old Boy and would like to attend the ANZAC

Please make yourself known to our Alumni team and

Day or Remembrance Day assemblies, please email

make sure your details are up to date with the College. The

events@aquinas.wa.edu.au

College is available to assist in the planning of reunions and other alumni events - events@aquinas.wa.edu.au

OAA EVENTS Friday 4 March 2022

Friday 19 August 2022

OAA Business Breakfast

OAA Annual Dinner & AGM

7.00am – 9.00am

6.00pm – AGM – Waterford Room at Aquinas College

Hughes Dining Hall at Aquinas College

6.30pm – 10.30pm – Annual Dinner, Hughes Dining Hall at Aquinas College

Wednesday 20 July 2022

19 October 2021

OAA Career Networking Sundowner

OAA Spring Sundowner

6.00pm – 8.00pm

5.30pm onwards

City location to be advised

Location to be advised


44 – FISH

REUNIONS 1971

1981

1990


45 – magazine of Aquinas College

2001

66ers

66ers


46 – FISH

REUNIONS 1961

1961

We are looking for Old Boys to volunteer to coordinate the 2022 reunions. If you are able to help, please make yourself known to the Alumni team who can help you with the coordination. If it’s easier, get a group of mates together to lighten the load. One of the most important jobs is finding Old Boys the College has lost touch with. If you want to make sure you receive the reunion invitation or have the contact details of an Old Boy who the College has lost touch with please email the information to events@aquinas.wa.edu.au


47 – magazine of Aquinas College

Early in 2021 we started planning our 40 year reunion. The College gave us tremendous guidance and assistance from day one. Nichole Rowson was our contact at the school and she provided us with contact details for our class group as held by the College. We formed a small steering group that chose a venue, a date and followed up on those for whom details were missing or out-of-date. Nichole set up a Facebook page for the Class of 1981 and helped to administer this page. As we found “lost” mates, Nichole updated the central details and coordinated the sending out of all invitations and the

receipt of all payments. It was so easy and we had

a fantastic night! Thank you Nichole and thank you Aquinas. Tom Mitchell (‘81)

On November 6, the Aquinas College class of 1981 held their 40-year reunion. The get-together commenced with a tour of the College which was followed by a gathering at the Windsor Hotel in South Perth. Despite a number of their classmates being unable to attend due to Covid restrictions, it was an extremely memorable occasion and a terrific opportunity to reminisce about our school days. Given the success of the evening, we would like to encourage all other old-boy year groups to think about coordinating a reunion with their classmates. With the help of the ‘Development Team’ at Aquinas, led by the amazing Nichole Rowson, the organisational aspect of the reunion was seamless and uncomplicated. We would like to thank Nichole for all her assistance in the lead-up to our 1981

gathering.

Best wishes to other year groups who are in the process of coordinating a reunion. Sean Henderson (‘81)


48 – FISH

Condolences Clem Gorman (’57) passed away 19 June 2021 in Terrigal, NSW. Professor of Literature and Author

BRIAN KIRKWOOD KEPT THE CLASS TOGETHER

of numerous books on Literature and the Arts. Lectured in Australia,

Brian Kirkwood (‘59) had been

USA and Europe. His latest book,

busily organising for his 1959

published earlier this year, was titled

leaving classmates to be strongly

Intrépide: Australian Women Artists in

represented at the annual Aquinas

Early Twentieth-Century France. Clem

Senior Old Boys Day lunch in August

was one of a number of St Louis

when he suffered a fatal heart attack

students who transferred to Aquinas

at his Dianella home on July 21. He

for his final years.

was aged 79.

Father John O’Reilly passed away

Brian had taken on the role of

30 June 2021. Father O’Reilly was

ensuring his classmates kept in

the Chaplain at Aquinas from 1967

touch, working off a detailed spread

to 1969.

sheet for everyone who had been in the group as it progressed through the College. Combining with colleague John Hall, he had meticulously noted each

Eighteen. Coach Brother Duffy said

classmate’s address and telephone

in his season’s summary: “Brian

number, birthday and where his

was amongst our most improved

family had lived when he attended

players. Gave very sound service as

the College – all colour coded. It

a backman.” He could also have said

was a great asset for contacting old

“Brian often cleared with dash and a

Brian John Loughton (‘66) passed

mates, and he was always organising

prodigious kick”.

away 10 July 2021

coffee catchups and the occasional

Brian was involved in a number of

Colin Chitty (‘59) passed away 25

class mid-year lunch. His pre-

business ventures post-school,

July 2021.

Christmas lunches at the Mt Henry

including a charter boat operation

James (Jim) Ryan (‘62) passed away

Tavern were always well attended.

out of Geraldton, which involved trips

17 October 2021.

Brian was a Kalgoorlie boy and came

to the Abrolhos Islands.

Barrie Buzolic (‘52) passed away

to board at Aquinas in his sub leaving

He is survived by his wife Kaye,

5 November 2021 in Cardwell, QLD.

year in 1958 after earlier boarding at

who was warmly welcomed at the

John Storey (‘61) passed away

New Norcia. He immediately made

Seniors’ Lunch, daughter Natalie, son

7 November 2021.

an impact, winning selection for the

Brett, and their families.

Peter James Fimmel (‘56) passed

interschool swimming carnival at

away 13 November 2021.

Crawley Baths. In his leaving year Brian was again in the swimming team and a valued member of the Alcock Cup First


49 – magazine of Aquinas College

CONGRATULATIONS Nathan Farley (‘04) married Casey Pabst 10 July 2021 in the Aquinas Chapel.

Alexander C. Blomfield (‘o6) married best friend Simone Moles on 20th February 2021

Cesare Scalise(‘o9) married Melissa-Ann Settineri on 20th November 2021 in the Aquinas Chapel

DID YOU TIE THE KNOT OR CELEBRATE THE BIRTH OF A CHILD RECENTLY? SEND US THE DETAILS AND A PHOTO SO THE AQUINAS COMMUNITY CAN CELEBRATE WITH YOU FISH@AQUINAS.WA.EDU.AU


50 – FISH

Aquinas Business Directory IT IS OUR GREAT JOY TO BE ABLE TO SUPPORT THE PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVOURS OF THE AQUINAS COMMUNITY THROUGH OUR AQUINAS BUSINESS DIRECTORY. BELOW YOU WILL FIND A RANGE OF BUSINESSES FROM CURRENT AND ALUMNI STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES. VIEW IT NOW ON OUR WEBSITE.

A ‘n’ K Budget Bins

Lift Equipt

Tetris Environmental

ACORPP

Lighthouse Capital

The Berrigan Bar & Bistro

Acton Applecross

Liquor Barons Hamilton Hill

The Hair Room

A-Mac Painting Services

Marketforce

The Happy Pet Place

APD Architecture

Mawson Consulting

The ORS Group

Australian Pink Diamonds

McKenzie Rural Contracting

The Pawstry Box

Batteries Plus

Milkshake Co

The Valve Company

Captured Memories

MKG Partners Chartered

Universal Customs Brokers

Cloud Payment Group

Accountants

WA INK

Como Engineers P/L

Mount Pleasant Counselling

Westwide Electrical

Cooch Creative

Centre

WFI Insurance

Darling & Domain

Naked Specs Optical

Woods Midland Insurance Brokers

Do Diligence

Nateis Contracting

Zipform Digital

Dongara Marine

NicNacNoo - Gift and Homewares

Zipform Packaging

Doors Plus Balcatta

Perth Outdoor Installations

Ecosafe International

Perth Safety Deposit Boxes

Elle Design Rugs

PEST Australia P/L

Empire Financial Group

Plas-Pak (WA) P/L

Enco Group P/L

Priority 1 Fire and Safety

Endeavour Foods

Procopio Legal

Entire Tech

Pronto Catering

Extensive Property Maintenance

Psychology on Welwyn

Featherstone Physio Pilates

Quality Pest & Weed Solutions P/L

GRG Consulting

RH Property

Hangout on Preston

Safeman WA P/L

iBolt Fencing

Scaini & Co Chartered Accountants

Register your business?

iCoach Leadership & Mentoring

Soklich & Co.

Inclusion in the directory is entirely

Services

Sophisticated Spaces

free and of a voluntary nature. If you

In Depth Auto Detailer

Sottaceto Preserves

wish to list your business and are a

Intercruit

South Perth Psychology

current or Old Aquinian or a parent/

Kangaroo Inn

State of Zen Health Coaching

caregiver visit our website.

Kelly Bucksey Photographer

Systech Solutions


51 – magazine of Aquinas College

It has never been more important to support local business and we know this value is supported by the Aquinas College community. For the opportunity to target your business advertising to our engaged network contact fish@aquinas.wa.edu.au


Aquinas College Mt Henry Rd • Salter Point • Western Australia Locked Bag 11, Bentley Delivery Centre, Bentley WA 6983, Australia Telephone: +61 8 9450 0600 • Facsimile: +61 8 9313 1901 www.aquinas.wa.edu.au

CRICOS Code: 00428E


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