Fish Term 1 2018

The magazine of Aquinas College

fish

1894

term 1- 2018

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1894

AQUINAS COLLEGE

Contents 4

Headmaster - “It’s the School League Table, Jim, but not as we know it”

5

Year 8 Excellence Award Winners

6

Mary and Jesus - Mother and Son

8

The future of education - a changing landscape

10 New initiatives, new developments at Aquinas in 2018 11 New Houses 12 Building character 13 New courses engaging boys 14 Not the normal Friday afternoon 15 Managing homework

16 Year 7 Camp

29 Students Achievements

17 Welcome to Kindy

30 Parent Groups

18 Junior School Service Learning

31 Foundation

19 Junior School STEM classes 19 Relay 4 Life 22 Aquinas College Farmers’ Markets 23 CULTURE - Year 12 Drama Perspective 24 CULTURE - A significant impact on the cultural life of Aquinas 25 SPORT - Summer Wrap 26 ADVOCACY - Formation for Justice 28 SERVICE - Helping in the community

35 OAA - From the President 36 Alumni News 39 Archives - Head of the Air Race 1934 40 Old Aquinians’ Calendar of Events Published by: Aquinas College 58 Mt Henry Road Salter Point Western Australia

Publication Co-ordinators: Samantha Coffey samantha.coffey@aquinas.wa.edu.au Claire Kelly claire.kelly@aquinas.wa.edu.au Inside Photography: Shane Vasile Photography Aquinas staff and students

To unsubscribe to this emagazine please email fish@aquinas.wa.edu.au

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The Gonski Report is in and its 23 recommendations will no doubt, if implemented, completely change the nature of Australian Schools. Coming from overseas, I believe many of the changes are long overdue and one of the first I believe should be the school league tables.

“It’s the School League Table, Jim, but not as we know it” Many schools in both the independent and state sectors have reservations about league tables and regard them as misleading for a variety of reasons: 1. Tables give only a limited view of the school’s performance. The breadth of activities and opportunities beyond the academic curriculum are excluded – as are such things as the quality of pastoral care and careers advice, extracurricular opportunities and schemes which enhance personal, social and spiritual development; 2. Tables based, as current ones are, only on examination results take no account of the value added by good teaching. Good results may in some cases result largely from a very able total intake of pupils. Tables do not compare like with like; 3. They tend to be distorted by the extent to which a school selects its pupils, and by the results of a small number of pupils at the less “academic” end of the spectrum.

Most schools have a sizeable number of clever pupils, but some have a much broader academic spectrum of ability than others.

In many schools there are pupils contributing significantly in ways other than purely academic ones – and often there are a few who are underachieving because of family, personal or other pressures in their 4 / the fish

lives at the time when they are taking public examinations; 4. Tables produced and published rapidly after results will not take into account results which change later as the result of clerical checks, remarks and appeals; 5. Many schools force pupils to take an unnecessary number of ATAR subjects to boost their total points score.

6. League tables encourage schools to “play safe” where the curriculum is concerned. They create a temptation for schools to: a. Adopt a narrow style of teaching (even cramming) to “teach to the test” – rigid instruction purely to achieve high examination results, rather than encouraging the development of intellectual curiosity or wider practical skills; b. Cut down the number of examinations taken; c. Reduce extra-curricular provision that remove students from class e.g. camps; d. Pressurise staff and pupils into focusing exclusively on academic matters, with pastoral and wider provision being reduced as a result.

There is even a temptation (which the great majority of schools resist) to try to manipulate results. This can be done in a number of ways, for example

by persuading weaker candidates to drop weaker subjects before the examinations, or limit the number of subjects to the required minimum.

The net result is schools maintaining their commitment to a broad, balanced education that includes programs that do not contribute to results, can find themselves penalised by league tables.

That is not to say that data is not important; far from it. One of the central three tenants of the new Gonski Report is “deliver at least one years’ growth in learning for every student every year”.

Providing data that accounts for the progress of all pupils in the year group (and not just those at the top end) is a good indicator of one central aspect of a school’s function.

A Value Added Measure would be a more fair system and provide parents with a far more honest picture of the school. To make such measurements, however, the sole basis upon which a school is judged as successful does miss the whole purpose of an education, particularly a Christian education.

David McFadden Headmaster

Year 7 Excellence Award Winners 2018 To achieve a Certificate of Excellence a student must obtain 90 per cent excellent ratings in their Term Report.

Congratulations to the following Year 7 boys who achieved a Certificate of Excellence in their Lent Term 1 Reports:

Lachlan Dennis Year 7 Treacy

Harry Mais Year 7 Glowrey

Nolan Robinson Year 7 Bryan

Ethan Dixon Year 7 Bryan

Miles Mathieson Year 7 Treacy

Joshua Roncio Year 7 Bryan

Thomas Eade Year 7 Edmund

Matthew McCarthy Year 7 Bryan

Sebastian Ruane Year 7 Treacy

Daniel Fisher Year 7 Edmund

Tobias Melang Year 7 Edmund

Benjamin Russell Year 7 Treacy

Jeremy Allsop Year 7 Glowrey

Marvin Fong Year 7 Glowrey

Thomas Millard Year 7 Glowrey

Connor Scott Year 7 Treacy

Nikhil Arora Year 7 Treacy

Matthew Gardner Year 7 Bryan

Logan Montgomery Year 7 Treacy

David Scott Year 7 Treacy

Solomon Ashe Year 7 Bryan

Alexander Gavranic Year 7 Glowrey

Praneel Mukherjee Year 7 Glowrey

Jamie Stocker Year 7 Glowrey

Brayden Atwell Year 7 Bryan

Samson Grazia Year 7 Glowrey

Lachlan Murray Year 7 Edmund

Jakob Taylor Year 7 Edmund

Dylan Bobey Year 7 Treacy

Luke Griffiths Year 7 Glowrey

Michael Nicoletti Year 7 Edmund

Dillon Thiel Year 7 Edmund

Zac Borgomastro Year 7 Treacy

Benjamin Hall Year 7 Treacy

Conor Nolan Year 7 Glowrey

Matthew Vinci Year 7 Glowrey

Lachlan Brennan Year 7 Treacy

William Hussey Year 7 Glowrey

Tyson Nolan Year 7 Glowrey

Matthew Wallace Year 7 Glowrey

Presley Campbell Year 7 Edmund

Brady Inferrera Year 7 Glowrey

Ethan O’Connor Year 7 Edmund

Noah Warlters Year 7 Edmund

Max Christie Year 7 Bryan

Christopher Joubert Year 7 Edmund

Zachary Park Year 7 Bryan

Rory Watson Year 7 Glowrey

Darcy Collins Year 7 Glowrey

Benjamin King Year 7 Edmund

Joshua Pensabene Year 7 Glowrey

Jack Zaninovich Year 7 Treacy

Harry Collins Year 7 Treacy

Anton Krsticevic Year 7 Glowrey

Jeremy Pilatti Year 7 Treacy

Jake Zito Year 7 Edmund

Matteo Conte Year 7 Glowrey

Campbell Macdonald Year 7 Treacy

Taylor Rae Year 7 Treacy 5 / the fish

Mary and Jesus - Moth Whilst the statue represents Mary and teenage Jesus, it is also a statue about a teenage boy and his mother. Thus it is a statue that speaks to all about the relationship between Mary and Jesus and all mothers and their sons at Aquinas College.

Jesus in the sculpture seems to be about 15 or 16 years old. Boys of that age then would have been expected to make their own living. Jesus, like his father, was a labourer and carpenter, his apron carries the tools symbolic of his trade.

No doubt he would have been earning the money to help support himself and his family. It would have been a happy life. Jesus would have worked in his shop during the day; perhaps Mary was a frequent visitor, admiring and taking interest in his work.

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Mary was very young when she gave birth to Jesus and here we see her as a woman in her early thirties. Mary had always known that her son was special.

Here was the son she had conceived and given birth to, nurtured and loved as babe and boy. How much did she know of what lay ahead? What did she ponder in her heart?

And how aware was Jesus of the role he was to play? He was very much flesh and blood, of human personality, brought up in a loving family. A growing sense of his own identity must have also been accompanied by a deepening awareness of the will of his Father.

He stands, healthy, strong, looking beyond Mary, eager to face his future, to start his public life. His love and respect for his mother is seen in the gentle right

hand on Mary’s shoulder, however, his attention, eagerness and concentration are drawn away from his mother and the present, to the world beyond. Like any teenager, he has a life to make, a destiny to fulfil. With him he will take the love and the values built into his life by those who have cared for him.

As for Mary? See how still she is.

The time is near for Jesus, Mary, like all mothers, is aware of his distance from the present and an impending change. She has done all she can, over the years she has tried to love her son into ever-fuller life, encouraging, admonishing, trying to give her own strength, values, vision and spirit to him. Soon however, it will be time, time to let him go to do his Father’s work. As with all mothers there comes a time when the need for more words,

her and Son more admonition and more physical presence stops. Enough has been said.

It is a time for a blessing and a gradual backing away to leave the child both free and empowered.

Mary recognises this need in her stillness. With her hands resting on her lap, she does not touch Jesus. She is at peace and yet how strong is the love she bears her son. She lifts her head towards him. She looks at him with such love – a gentle gaze, full of confidence in him, eyes open to the truth and promise of the boy she has helped to mould. Her mouth, too, is gentle; there is almost a smile; she approves of what she sees.

Perhaps now at the moment of her son’s leaving, does Mary realise what all loving mothers come to realise in time, that birth is given twice, once

During the term break, the College has installed a statue in the newly formed Chapel Quadrangle. The statue has been commissioned for the College’s 125 year celebrations, to recognise and celebrate the wonderful support of parents since its foundation in 1894.

biologically and once in faith, once to an infant and once to an adult. Mary gave birth to a baby, but she had to spend years nurturing, coaxing and cajoling that infant into adulthood. As a child grows, matures and takes on a personality and destiny of its own, so a mother must let herself be painfully stretched in understanding, in not knowing, in carrying tension, in letting go. She must set free her son to be himself, something that was once so fiercely hers. The pains of childbirth are often gentle compared to this second wrenching of letting go.

The statue is a symbol of our faith in Jesus, who, like each pupil at Aquinas, moves through adolescence into manhood. It is a symbol of our faith in Mary, who, whilst unique in her trust in God, was a loving mother, like each

mother of our pupils. So whilst the statue has both religious and spiritual meanings, it is also very much about us, about all mothers and sons as they grow in love and understanding of themselves and each other; and about the pain and glory found in their final letting go.

David McFadden Aquinas College

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“Education will be not just taking information and sharing it back, but also figuring out what to do with that information in the real world.”

The future of education Education has always been thought of as a journey, a path from the unknown into the structure, conformity and knowledge traditional education systems of bygone years have instructed. Now, education is a more dynamic entity, where students get levels of choice in their learning – from choosing reading books of interest in early years to the choice of relevant subjects to help them on their journey to a career path. The future, according to researchers, will look even more diverse and inspire students to develop key skills beyond traditional learning outcomes.

Creativity, curiosity, versatility and learning to learn will be some of the features of future education systems enabling youth of today to approach learning and life in an adaptable, confident way which will aid them in the ever-changing careers landscape of the 21st century.

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The Australian Government’s New Work Order Report 2017 suggests young people today are facing the most significant disruption in the world of work since the Industrial Revolution, which could bring opportunities or further disadvantage young people in labour markets.

It is estimated youth of today will likely have more than 15 jobs spanning five different careers in their lifetime.

The report’s findings revealed about 70 per cent of current young Australian jobseekers were getting jobs in roles which would involve different skill sets or be completely obsolete in the next 10-15 years due to automation.

As research continues to pave the way for necessary change and adaptability in schools, across the globe educational institutions are continuing to evaluate and develop new ways of teaching, new subjects and new learning areas

to help students gain essential skills in preparation for dynamic work prospects.

Some of the key areas schools are beginning to include in their curricula, according to the NSW Department of Education’s Hard Focus on “Soft” Skills report include; • problem solving/critical creative thinking • communication • social skills and teamwork • resilience • ICT skills/digital literacy • self and social awareness • respectful relationships • innovation and enterprise • intercultural understanding • global mindset • self-efficacy

a changing landscape It is important that Aquinas College meets these future challenges. 2018 will involve the first wave of change across the College as part of an overall three-year plan. Major changes implemented this year include; A New College Structure – A move to distinctive Junior, Middle and Senior Schools, with students changing house as they move through the schools with a new Head of House, tutor and grouping of peers. Boys will need to develop capacity for change and the skills to accommodate change which will become part of their lives; and House System - Four Houses in each of the three day schools. Each will have assessment, reporting and award regimes that promote student reflection and a new student leadership open to all students; achieved through a program of leadership training and challenges; and Expansion of Faith Formation –

Justice and Advocacy program to join Religious Education; Liturgy/Prayer and Service as a fourth aspect of our Faith Formation Program; and A New Curriculum - An expansion of the Arts in Junior and Middle School and the introduction of Coding and Global Studies in Year 8 and 9, Cambridge International Examinations in Year 10 together with units of study in Character Education; Leadership; Mental Health; Study and Thinking Skills throughout Years 7 – 10.

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New initiatives, new developments at Aquinas in 2018 Aquinas College has begun implementing a series of initiatives this year as part of an overarching three-year plan; from curriculum changes to capital developments.

Moving to three distinct schools within the College has seen students engage in targeted age and stage appropriate curriculum and programs for boys. An expanded House system, with four Houses per school, will see students change Houses as they progress though each level of schooling i.e. Junior, Middle and Senior.

Expansion of Arts programs in the Junior and Middle Schools has seen the introduction of instrumental learning in Year 4 (violin/cello) and the addition of timetabled Arts learning in the Middle School each week, enabling students to have an opportunity to experience

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the different areas of Arts – including Drama, Music and Art. Recent construction of the Chapel Quadrangle, at the heart of the Middle School break time recreation area between the Chapel and Edmund Rice Administration Building has revitalised the space for Middle School students.

It provides boys with an area to sit, chat and eat with friends as well as play four square – a great school yard game which has survived through the ages.

Planning has begun to make additions to the St Thomas Aquinas Chapel in the next 18 months which will increase its capacity to accommodate whole of College events and large community events such as Graduation. Capacity will increase from 340 to 600, bringing the Chapel back into the central life of the College by enabling the three schools to attend Chapel together.

Construction of a new Rowing and River Centre will also see College Rowing facilities cater for the needs of our rowers in a state-of-the-art new building on the banks of the Canning.

Other planned developments include the establishment and integration of a staffroom, pastoral offices and school offices at the centre of the College, the installation of air-conditioning into remaining non air-conditioned classrooms and the construction of a new student toilet block.

New Houses The 2018 school year is the start of a new era at Aquinas College with changes to the College’s House system.

Each school, Junior, Middle and Senior, now has its own House system.

Junior School includes Clune, Egan, Quinlan and Redmond. Middle School consists of Bryan, Edmund, Glowrey and Treacy. Senior students are part of new Houses; Chaney, Cullity, Durack and Prendiville.

The namesakes of the new Senior School Houses have played significant

roles in the history of Aquinas College.

Students have been taking pride in their new House dynamics, wearing new House shirts and competing to the best of their abilities in House events, such as Swimming and Athletics Carnivals.

War cries, coloured wigs and face paint signifying House allegiance coloured Memorial Oval on the last day of term as Middle and Senior School students competed in their respective House Athletics Carnivals. Junior students participated in their House Carnival a day earlier, however, students

were rained out halfway through events and were unable to complete the day.

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A 21st century education is about far more than facts and figures. It is about developing the student as a whole, helping them to build skill sets, character and values which will be relevant for years beyond the school gates.

Building character Aquinas College has implemented a new pastoral care program, Veritas, in the Middle and Senior Schools this year to engage boys in initiatives and programs aimed at developing character. It is aligned with the College’s aim to educate boys “to be the best they can be…for others ”.

Headmaster David McFadden says the new program focuses on six key areas of character education such as gratitude, justice, courage, discipline, temperance and resilience The learning opportunities within Veritas will also teach many associated character strengths – such as creativity, perseverance, kindness, spirituality and leadership.

“By developing these character strengths and virtues in students, Aquinas can have graduates that enter society as confident and compassionate adults – who are effective contributors to society,

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successful and responsible citizens,” Mr McFadden says.

“Ultimately, the Veritas programme will assist in fulfilling the Aquinas College purpose of educating ‘boys to become men the world needs’ – men with good character who have knowledge and understandings of global issues with ability to advocate and implement change for a better world.”

Head of Middle School Michael Dempsey says the Year 7-9 programme involves one lesson per week taught by key staff from across the College, including Heads of House, Deputy Headmaster Duncan Warlters, Director of Justice and Advocacy Richard Mavros and himself.

“We are engaging key staff to work with the boys throughout the program, to teach the boys skills to build good character and leadership skills. The challenge with boys of this age group

is they are trying to find their place in the world – we are working with them to show them the wider picture – to discover the opportunities to engage in their world to help make it a better place,” Mr Dempsey says.

Select Year 10 students are studying the College’s inaugural Cambridge IGCSE courses – English Literature and Global Perspectives.

The courses, part of the University of Cambridge, are designed to offer students a global perspective with local relevance and engage them in developing life skills including creative thinking and problem solving.

Aquinas College IGCSE English Literature teacher Marilyn McKenzie says the new course has provided some interesting challenges to both the boys and herself as their teacher.

“We sailed through the first unit with ease but the second unit on poetry was very daunting. The boys were required to study 15 very difficult poems,” Ms McKenzie says.

“Only two of these poems will be on the exam so I had to ensure we covered all 15 of them in depth,” she adds.

“My fear was that this process may

not be very uplifting and my challenge was to find ways to motivate the boys and keep them interested. To their credit they maintained an enthusiastic approach despite the difficulty of the unit.”

Year 10 student Robbie Sprivulis says he has enjoyed the Literature unit so far and found it has helped in other areas of his learning.

“Our analysis of short stories introduced me to reading to find inner meaning and not reading only for enjoyment. The topic also noticeably increased my reading speed through reading multiple texts,” Robbie says.

Student James Brennan says the course has given him a rare chance to explore literature in depth.

“I’ve also gained an understanding on how to interpret an essay question

properly and answer the question accordingly. This is most certainly a solid base to stand on whether I choose Literature or English ATAR in my Year 11 studies,” James says.

New courses engaging boys

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Not the normal Friday afternoon Senior students are finishing off their school week with a range of activities each Friday afternoon focused on selfdevelopment, reflection and study.

Perspectives on building responsible relationships, exploring the wider world through volunteering and developing essential life skills have been conveyed by guest speakers, exposing students to skills, opportunities and issues relevant to their day-to-day lives and future.

Group sessions and discussions focused on drug and alcohol use and responsible relationships were two key events for Year 10 students.

Head of Senior School Nick Ognenis says the sessions were part of

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College initiatives to develop protective behaviours among students.

“The school needs robust ways of delivering protective behaviours – welcoming guest speakers on key issues for teenage boys is one way we are teaching students how to deal with tough issues they may be facing now or in the near future,” Mr Ognenis says.

Life skills have also been taught in Friday afternoon sessions, including etiquette training for Year 11 students.

The boys learned key skills from Chadwick Models trainers in sessions designed to teach students simple measures to develop their understanding and modelling of appropriate behaviours in social settings. The boys then treated their mums to a fantastic formal dinner at the South of Perth Yacht Club to

showcase their new skills.

Mr Ognenis says study sessions have also been part of the Friday afternoon program in the Senior School for Year 11 and 12 students.

“Overall, the program is working well for the boys – we are seeing them learn about different opportunities, skills as well as self-development. Older students are also benefiting from having the responsibility of doing independent study in the sessions regularly.”

Managing homework Homework has taken on a new form in the Middle School this year with an approach designed to help boys plan ahead, manage their learning at home and build routines which will help them with study in future years.

The Homework Tasks program aims to consolidate what students are learning in the classroom, according to Head of Middle School Michael Dempsey.

He says students are given certain subject-specific tasks to work on each night to scaffold learning in the form of ongoing assignments or consolidate by practicing concepts learnt that day in the classroom or in the previous week.

“The new program is giving students structure – they know what they have to do, whichever night it is and they know which subjects are coming up [the

following night],” Mr Dempsey says.

The focus on nightly reading as part of a homework routine is also beneficial to the boys.

“Research continues to show how important reading is to a boy’s literacy levels – trying to engage the boys in reading for pleasure each night is something we are encouraging to give students the chance to gain enjoyment from reading and gain academic benefit from reading different texts regularly,” he says.

“Reading is a great way to start the nightly homework routine as it helps boys to refocus their attention on the tasks at hand.”

He says the new Homework Tasks program is an ongoing work in progress as students, parents and teaching staff adapt to new processes.

“We are talking to students and we are talking to parents, gaining feedback

on different tasks and working to try to provide students with tasks that are appropriate within set time frames – some tasks have just been too long and we have worked to adapt these to make sure the boys are not spending more than the allocated time to complete them.”

Some positive feedback from parents about the new program has been that their sons have become engaged and motivated by the routine approach to home learning.

“Homework Tasks set are meaningful and purposeful, they are not just tasks to ‘keep busy’ at home. They are set to give students opportunities to learn beyond the classroom environment, build on their independent learning skills and help them to develop routines and organisational skills which are crucial as they progress through their education,” Mr Dempsey says.

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Year 7 Camp Testing agility, determination, courage and teamwork – the annual Year 7 camp took students to new heights as they scaled high ropes courses, rock climbed and soared on the flying fox at Woodman Point.

The camp gave the boys a chance to get to know one another better away from the classroom and challenged them with new experiences and adventures to share, including surf games, raft building, canoeing and search and rescue exercises.

Year 7 student Ethan Dixon says he learnt a lot about his classmates and himself during the camp. “…this camp was a great way for all the Year 7 boys to get to know each other,” Ethan says.

“I liked the flying fox because of the way it challenged me more than the other activities. I’ve always been scared of heights and I’d like to thank the

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instructor who helped me by pushing me over the edge – I never looked back from there!” he says.

Br Clery’s famous storytelling was also a highlight for the boys, Ethan saying his favourite memory was of Br Clery telling a “fascinating” story about Victor Trumper.

“Victor was a famous Australian Cricket player from the 1900s. The story taught me about how being humble reaps its own rewards.”

Head of Middle School Michael Dempsey says the annual camp gives students the opportunity to test themselves and each other, and support

one another during exercises. “… every boy was challenged by the exciting activities… and it was great to see many boys supporting their mates to attempt some of the challenges provided,” Mr Dempsey says.

Welcome to Kindy Early Years started at Aquinas in 2014 with a single Kindergarten class of 24 boys. As the boys have journeyed through their schooling so too has the Early Years programme grown. This year, our inaugural Kindy students are the Year 3 cohort, officially completing the K-3 Early Years programme at Aquinas College.

Early Years Learning Coordinator Nicole Monzu says the Junior School, now a Kindergarten to Year 6 (K-6) campus, supports the Early Years boys from Kindergarten to Year 3 and provides developmentally appropriate learning in a play-based setting.

“Red t-shirted boys can be seen skipping to and from school each day eager and excited to be part of such a special community,” Mrs Monzu says.

“This year has seen another cohort of three and four-year olds take their first steps into the Kindergarten class.

Developing a sense of belonging is paramount and the boys have been learning to play with their new friends and become familiar with an environment that provides them with opportunities to discover more about themselves and each other,” she says.

Mrs Monzu says as students learn by engaging with the materials and the intentional learning opportunities presented to them, they develop in both confidence and ability.

“Dressing up, getting messy and acting out their favourite stories are everyday occurrences that add to the joy of early childhood.”

Jesus and what he means to them. They explore the presence of God in their lives through wonder at creation, singing, painting, drawing and retelling Bible stories. Some of the traditional rituals such as making the Sign of the Cross are modified to be more developmentally appropriate. Students say; “Jesus be in my head, Jesus be in my heart and Jesus watch over my shoulders,” to commence and conclude each day.

Values

Faith is an integral value modelled and practiced daily in classroom activities.

Godly play and daily reflections provide opportunities for Early Years students to engage in their understanding of

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Junior School Service Le 18 / the fish

earning

Service has been at the forefront of each student’s mind this year with all Junior School students offered the opportunity to participate in the Junior Service Program in 2018.

Year 3 teacher Kris Healy says Year 3 students had a great time heading to Gracewood to spend time with some of the residents this term.

“The boys introduced themselves when they got there and had a brief chat, then they got into a game of mini golf with residents – it was fantastic the way the boys helped the residents with the games, helping with the ball, holding walkers and some keeping guard of residents’ cups of tea,” Mr Healy says.

Early Years students welcomed a group of Gracewood residents to their Cricket Carnival and enjoyed having their guests watch their games while having afternoon tea.

“All our Early Years, Kindy through to Year 3s, helped make biscuits for the residents to enjoy at afternoon tea during the carnival. The day was a great success and we will invite residents to attend our other carnivals throughout the year,” Mr Healy says.

“Service is about helping others and putting others’ needs above your own.

This is a challenge for some adults but based on the efforts of some of our youngest students so far this year, the boys are striving to be true Aquinians and role models for others,” he says.

“Service visits and activities will continue to take place throughout 2018 with boys from K-3 visiting Gracewood and each Year from K-6 undertaking their own service projects.”

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Junior School STEM classes Four little letters can inspire so much enthusiasm, excitement, exploration and discovery among students - STEM. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics is a key focus of the Junior School program and students have been embracing the dynamic projects and activities across each year group this term.

From Year 5 students discovering interesting facts about the red planet and creating settlements on Mars to Kindergarten boys learning about the dynamics of colour and designing musical instruments – students always look forward to what’s happening in the STEM classroom.

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Relay 4 Life Five years ago it started as an idea to bring the boarding community together to raise funds for a worthy cause – today it is a highlight of the boarding calendar which has raised more than $60,000 for cancer research and support.

This year’s Relay 4 Life, held in April, saw more than 750 students from boarding schools across WA descend on Memorial Oval for a night dedicated to fundraising and creating awareness of cancer and the effects it has on sufferers, survivors, families and the wider community.

Aquinas College Year 12 student and cancer survivor Couper Edgar shared his story battling cancer with the crowd of students. His story was one of courage, resilience and hope through adversity.

The candle light run followed Couper’s speech. Lights were turned off and Memorial Oval was aglow with nearly 1000 electronic candles as students

lapped the Oval together to the sounds of Nunan House Captain Lachy Thomas’ singing, reflecting on their personal experiences with cancer – from knowing loved ones battling the disease to participating in the annual Relay 4 Life to help fundraise.

Year 9 Tristan Nel was one of many student volunteers at the event and says he was amazed by the event and the energy of the students’ participating. “…my job was nothing compared to the crowd who participated on the night.

They walked for almost four hours to raise money for the Cancer Council,” Tristan says.

“This event opened my eyes to the effects cancer has on people,” he adds.

“I’ve been fortunate in my life, so far, to not have known anyone close to me to suffer from this disease. Because of this, hearing a fellow student talk about his experience after having survived this three years ago, taught me just how frightening it must be for them, as well as their family.”

“I enjoyed learning new skills through the small part I played and was most proud to be part of something that helped raise money for the Cancer Council.”

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Aquinas College Farmers’ Markets Farm produce was on show for the Aquinas community at the second annual Boarders Farmers’ Markets on the final day of term.

The markets showcased some fantastic country wares including garden decorations, home-made relishes and jams, farm-fresh eggs and plenty more.

Parents and community members enjoyed checking out the stalls between events at the Middle and Senior Athletics Carnivals which coincided with the markets on Memorial Oval.

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Culture - Year 12 Drama Perspective Year 12 Benjamin Bianchini has experienced the thrill of being part of Aquinas College annual Productions for the past few years. Here is a snapshot of his experience; Why did you choose to audition/ act in College Productions in Year 10-12?

The Aquinas College Production had always been a goal of mine to participate in. I remember seeing Little Shop of Horrors before I had even arrived at Aquinas in Year 4 and was truly inspired by the cast’s performance. It became a tradition that my older brother and I went with Mum to see the Aquinas Production each year after that. In 2013, I had the incredible opportunity to participate as an orphan in Oliver and I loved it so much I knew I’d be back for more.

What has been one highlight/ memorable experience from production?

Happy Days was my first proper experience as part of the Aquinas Production. I vividly remember the dress rehearsal, where I saw everything finally come together; the fantastic costumes,

the set, the lighting, the songs, and I was in complete awe in regard to what we’d created.

How do you prepare for a performance? Do you have a ritual/routine you follow ahead of performing each night?

Preparing for the performance is absolutely vital. There is always so much excitement and nerves before performance; it’s extremely important that each of us takes a moment to reflect and quiet our thoughts. Our director Jeremy Sivewright leads us through a series of stretches and vocal warm-ups that gets the entire cast in the zone, ready to perform on stage.

Which character do you play in The Boy Friend?

Percival Browne, a British millionaire and distant father to young Polly. When Percival goes to visit his daughter at her boarding school some of his buried history resurfaces and comes to haunt him.

Will you continue with Drama when you graduate? Either professionally or as a pastime?

After I leave Aquinas, I would love to continue with Drama as a pastime.

Though it’s not something that I would

pursue as a career, I’ve had so much fun making lifelong memories and friends, I hope to continue wherever else I can.

Which three words would describe your experience performing in school Productions?

Exhilarating, professional and unforgettable

By Year 12 Benjamin Bianchini

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A significant impact on the cultural life of Aquinas As 2018 celebrates the “Year of the Arts” at Aquinas College, many exciting initiatives have been introduced to the Arts and Culture programs encouraging boys to develop their artistic skills.

Aquinas College has a proud tradition in the Arts, in particular in Music, Drama and Visual Arts.

Head of Arts and Culture Chris McMillan says boys take up the challenge to be involved, either through learning an instrument, taking to the stage in Middle or Senior School Productions, or exhibiting their artwork in exhibitions.

“There is no doubt, however, there is plenty of scope to build upon what is here and introduce some new initiatives which will eventually place our College in a unique position and have young boys striving to attend our school to develop their artistic talents,” Mr McMillan says.

The structure of the new Middle School has seen a significant curriculum change and boys are now able to engage in all three of the Arts offerings in Year 7 and 8.

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“This has been a significant development from previous years, enabling the students to experience the variety of arts courses available at the College – it should have a flow on effect and prove beneficial for the further development of our upper school programs in years to come too,” Mr McMillan says.

The Junior School has also seen many changes to its Arts program with the launch of the Year 4 String Program and Year 1-3 Choir this year.

Mr McMillan says Year 4 students have had the choice of learning the violin or cello this term and they have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge.

“With a few notes now under the belt, we are looking forward to the commencement of our Year 4 String Orchestra in Term 2,” he says.

“Many parents have commented on the wonderful sounds they are hearing at home and the positive impact the learning of an instrument is having on their sons’ general studies which is fantastic.”

Mr McMillan says the Year 1-3 Choir, new this year with the Year 3 cohort

completing the College as K-12, has showcased some great enthusiasm for singing among students.

“It is very clear that many boys just love to sing!” he says.

“This new group bounces into the Music Rooms every Tuesday morning and enjoys learning new songs and vocal games.”

He says the Year 1-3 Choir enables the College to build a full school choral program for boys from Year 1 to 12 – with choir programs in Year 4-6, Year 7-9 and Year 10-12.

“Our new initiatives for 2018 have already had a significant impact on the cultural life of Aquinas. Watch this space for the announcement of a number of further developments which will continue to enhance the artistic opportunities available to our students.”

Sport - Summer Wrap Claiming the Br Carrigg Shield was the ultimate prize for Aquinas College 1st VI Volleyball players, after an undefeated season in which the team only dropped one set.

Players celebrated with team mates and family after a hard-fought season which saw effective team work help players take the trophy.

“Overall the College Volleyball program had an amazing season, undefeated across all six Senior teams and with only one defeat in the Middle School teams - an almost perfect season.

This is a credit to all coaches and players involved,” Director of Sport David Gault says 1st team players across the summer sports should be congratulated for their efforts and dedication to their teams.

“Final results might not have gone the way some of our players wanted, but at the end of the day, the determination to improve skills, to be better team players and work towards common goals made our prospects for the next summer season look positive,” Mr Gault says.

The 1st XI Cricket team finished third at season’s end after a strong win against second-placed Hale School – Aquinas finished with two wins, two draws and two losses.

“The draws and losses saw us score more than 200 runs in each game, which showed the team’s competitiveness and most seasons these scores would result in a victory,” Mr Gault says.

Basketball, Tennis and Water Polo lost to Hale in the final round to end their seasons.

“While not the results the teams were looking for, a number of young players got exposure at 1st team level which will help with our depth of talent in future seasons.”

The Aquinas Swimming team placed fifth at the Inters with swimmers rising to the challenge of beating their previous year’s total score (2017 – 677) tallying 707.

Head Coach Antony Matkovich says swimmers were very competitive on the night and he was proud of their combined efforts.

“Our next step is to engage all swimmers, no matter what their role on the team, to consistently train to continue to build our team’s strength and

skill base,” Mr Matkovich says.

Despite a Head of the River win alluding Aquinas rowers, Director of Rowing Nick Collins says there was great improvement within the rowing team as a whole this year, with competitive teams across the year groups.

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ADVOCACY As a Catholic School for boys in the Edmund Rice Tradition, Aquinas College remains clear on the values that orient our participation in the world – our challenge remains to find relevant and meaningful ways to inform and inspire our students in these values and to empower them with a variety of opportunities to live these values out.

Director of Justice and Advocacy Richard Mavros says the Young Justice Leaders Forum, a collaboration between Years 10-11 Aquinas and Santa Maria College students, was an empowering three-day event which informed and inspired students.

“There was deep learning, unease at some difficult truths and periods of prayerful discernment – all laced with laughter and tears. With the group arriving at a place of awareness, hope and resolve,” Mr Mavros says.

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He says since the forum students have been meeting regularly and decided to “lend their voices” to a number of issues to raise awareness or affect change.

“Some of our students ran their first mini advocacy campaign this term in support of our fellow Edmund Rice students in the USA as they participated in a historical moment – a time in history when students are asking to be heard in the debate about how to make their schools safe.”

“Aquinas College students sent messages of support, as part of a movement among Edmund Rice schools across Australia. In this case the boys were clear their interest was not to push for specific changes to laws, rather they were simply showing support and encouragement for their peers as they embarked on an unprecedented studentled advocacy campaign.”

Members of the group also participated in Caritas’ Project Compassion launch alongside more than 20 other Catholic schools from across WA. Since then, Caritas has been invited to Aquinas College to explore further ways to work together.

Mr Mavros says throughout the early development phase students must also find time to continually reconnect with the values and beliefs that drive the agenda of this movement.

“As we consider the way forward from here, we need to balance the action with contemplation, to ground the energy in formation in our tradition. The rhythm of ‘reflected upon action and acted upon reflection’ is the formation for justice dynamic that will help to nurture this new group.”

The group has started to invite new members to join, share their wisdom and

“I feel like my eyes are more open to the world occurring around me.”

Student feedback from 2018 Inaugural Young Justice Leaders Forum.

- Formation for Justice lend their voice to causes being tackled.

“In the long term, the group is planning on being open to involvement from Old Boys and parents alike – stay tuned for more information. We are sure you’ll be hearing more from this group in the coming months.”

“We cannot remain indifferent before the cries of our brothers and sisters. These ask of us not only material assistance – needed in so many circumstances – but above all, our help to defend their dignity as human persons, so that they can find the spiritual energy to become once again protagonists in their own lives.

They ask us to fight, in the light of the Gospel, the structural causes of poverty: inequality, the shortage of dignified work and housing, and the denial of their rights as members of society and as workers. As Christians we are called together to eliminate that globalization

of indifference which today seems to reign supreme, while building a new civilization of love and solidarity.” (Pope Francis November 2014)

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Helping in the community When the Christian Service-Learning Program first began in 1997, the dream was to see a time when the whole College community had opportunities to be involved in volunteer service. To build this type of culture requires authentic service experiences, an enthusiasm to do more than what is required and a desire to participate in serving others which reflects gospel values and the charism of Blessed Edmund Rice.

Director of Christian Service-Learning John Richards says such a time has been evolving for several years and we should celebrate that in addition to the many students who volunteer, there is a fast growing number of Old Boys, parents and staff who also volunteer for the many service options available.

“We have staff on rosters as Red Cross Soup Patrol drivers, The Shopfront, supervising door knocks and street appeals, coordinating After-School Mentor Programs, Environment and Conservation work and immersion programs in the Kimberley and the Philippines,” Mr Richards says.

He says there are also Old Boys driving during soup patrols and some who also still volunteer for Edmund 28 / the fish

Rice Camps and Lets go Surfing for the Disabled.

“During the Easter weekend, the entire soup patrol program was run over four nights by Aquinas students, staff, parents or Old Boys!”

“When a patrol ran out of soup halfway through the night on two occasions this year, the Aquinas team bought extra food for those who would have otherwise missed out. This ‘never say die’ attitude is a hallmark of the Aquinas College Service program.”

“It happens locally with soup patrols and overseas - as we have seen in the Philippines when extra meals were needed for street children.”

He says it has also been uplifting to see boys go with a parent on patrol or to an AFL game with Cerebral Palsy clients as well as to see Old Boys help with door knock supervision on a Sunday morning.

Aquinas students are continuing to engage in Service-Learning opportunities in a number of ways – from helping young children learn, to fundraising to give others a better chance, spending time connecting with the elderly, feeding the homeless, accompanying those who are disabled and working with nature.

Students have been volunteering at a number of charity events this term including the Red Cross Door Knock Appeal, Salvation Army Street Appeal, Clean Up Australia Day and MND Walk to D’Feet. Senior boys also took part in the Anzac Day Parade with the Australian Red Cross as well as the Dawn Service at the City of South Perth.

Mr Richards says students have made a positive start to the year and he has been inspired by the work they have been doing.

“These boys are helping people in their communities in so many different ways, and at the same time, learning the benefits of volunteering – seeing the impact their time and help can have on someone else’s life,” Mr Richards says.

A parent wrote to Mr Richards about her son’s recent experience as a buddy for a Cerebral Palsy client at the footy, saying; “All in all, I think he found himself appreciating the advantages of being an able-bodied young man. Thank you for making such an opportunity possible and I hope he can put himself forward to do it again.”

Students Achievements Junior A Tennis Academy Plate – second place Aquinas Junior A Tennis players came second in the annual Academy Plate Tournament between Junior Schools across WA. The boys played eight games throughout the day’s competition and proudly won against 2017 Australian Junior Tennis School of the Year Riverton. The Aquinas team played Wembley in the semi-final winning 1716 and faced Cottesloe in the play off for the title, losing 4-2.

Congratulations to all current and past students who were chosen to represent Australia, the state or their clubs in national competitions this term; Junior Australian Volleyball Toby Lynn (named team MVP)

Beach Volleyball Nationals Griffin Bateman (Silver U/19), Jackson Barnett, Tom Dempsey, Sam Bateman (Silver U/17), Lochlan Watson, Dane Ukich, Sam McLean, Lachie McLean, Zak Dempsey (Zak did not play due to injury/Lachie unable to play without partner Zak) Water Polo Club Nationals Joshua Douglas, Xavier Bradshaw-Pini, Harrison Grattidge, Travis Mylne Water Polo Nationals Harry Christie (competing in May) Swimming Nationals Matthew Joubert (Silver), Anthony Hobbs, Max Radotic Hockey Nationals Kyle Potter, Mitchell Tate, James Collins (Bronze U/18) Trent Scaini (Silver U/15)

Surf Life Saving Nationals Matt Colliss (Gold U/19 Board Relay, Bronze U/19 Surf Swim Team) Basketball Nationals Matthew Teale (Gold U/18) All Australian AFL Diversity Team Seth Connor We proudly acknowledge all students who have excelled this term, please notify FISH magazine of any student accomplishments which can be included in our next edition via goodnews@aquinas.wa.edu.au

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Parent Groups Aquinas College parents and community members volunteer their time, talents and energy to support the College to host many events throughout the year for parents, students, Old Aquinians and other guests. They also

engage our parents and students in social activities aimed at creating networks among families as they journey through Aquinas College. This term parents celebrated the start of the school year with the annual Parents’ and Friends’

Sundowner, dads joined their kids on the inaugural AC/DC (Aquinas College Dads Collective) modern-day treasure hunt at the College and parent helpers volunteered their time to assist at Old Aquinian events, carnivals and more.

Ladies’ Auxiliary June Morning Tea Guest Speaker - Dana Vulin A truly remarkable woman’s story of survival, strength and triumph in the face of unspeakable horror.

10.00am Friday 29th June, 2018 Tickets to the June Morning Tea

Major Raffle Tickets

Tickets: $35.00 (maximum 10 people/table).

If you would like to attend the JMT please don’t hesitate if you are on your own, as we will endeavour to seat you at your son’s year group table.

There will be NO door sales. Please book early.

Our Major Raffle First Prize is $50 per ticket Limited tickets available - don’t miss out!

Tickets available from Monday 9th April 2018 at 9.00AM AWST and closes Monday 25th June 2018 at 9.00PM AWST (unless sold out prior)

To book please purchase tickets though Trybooking -

CASH PRIZES 1st $10,000, 2nd $5,000 and 3rd $2,000

https://www.trybooking.com/378876

Trybooking -

If you have any queries please contact LAX Treasurer, Rachael Gardiner, 0417 902 099 rodnrach138@bigpond.com

Permit: LS211339518 Permit holder: Mrs Lisa Grazia

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https://www.trybooking.com/364508 1894

AQUINAS COLLEGE

AQUINAS COLLEGE

Foundation

2018 Building Fund Appeal Underway Thank you to all the families who have already contributed to the 2018 Annual Building Fund Appeal. Your tax-deductible gifts provide much-needed funds for the ongoing maintenance and redevelopment of the College’s educational buildings and facilities.

The 2018 Building Fund Appeal is still underway and there is time to forward your gift in this tax period prior to June 30th (if you didn’t tick the box on the 2018 Fee Statement).

Contributions can be made via our Online Store at www.aquinas.wa.edu.au.

Your continued support directly benefits the lives of our boys, today and tomorrow.

Louise Symonds Executive Officer Aquinas College Foundation

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AQUINAS COLLEGE

Foundation

Thank you to our 2017 Foundation Donors The Aquinas College Foundation acknowledges and thanks the Aquinas College community - current and past parents, Old Aquinians, staff and friends of the College - for their support throughout 2017.

Mrs M Abbott & Mr B Abbott Mr U Aldegheri & Mrs C Maurer Mrs J Alvaro & Mr J Alvaro Mr P & Mrs C Alvaro Mr A & Mrs L Ambrosino Mr P Anderson & Ms N Telford Mr S & Mrs L Anderson Mr T & Mrs M Andrews Mr T & Mrs S Anglesey Mr C & Mrs N Antonio Mr G & Mrs S Antonucci Mr D & Mrs M Arcaro Mr J & Dr P Arora Mr A & Mrs K Auret Mr A & Mrs C Bacon Mr A & Mrs E Bailey Mr N & Ms S Bailey Old Aquinians’ Reunion Tour Mr C & Mrs C Barbato Mr W Barber Mr T & Mrs N Barlow Mr C & Mrs S Barnett Mr M Barnett Mr E Basto & Ms L Piamonte Dr R & Mrs M Beck Mr T & Mrs F Beckett-Cooper Mr D & Mrs F Beilby Mr K & Mrs K Benson Mr G & Mrs W Bergin Mr A Berson Mr M & Mrs A Bevan Mr C Beveridge Mr D & Mrs R Bianchini Mr M & Mrs M Biscotto Mr S & Mrs C Biskup Mr B Black & Ms H Nguyen Mr T & Mrs L Blackadder Anonymous Mr C Bond Mr B Bone Mrs L Borovina & Mr S Chester Mrs C Borromei Mr J & Mrs A Bougourd Mr A Brady Mr C & Mrs V Brehaut Mr B & Mrs T Brennan Mr G & Mrs M Brennan Mr M & Mrs N Brennan Mr T & Mrs V Bridger Mr J & Mrs D Brodalka Mr R & Mrs C Brooke Mrs Frances L Bucat

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Thank you also to the many donors who have chosen to remain anonymous.

The following is a list of all our 2017 Foundation supporters across all appeals.

Your continued support of the Aquinas College Foundation ensures a lasting

Mr Z & Mrs S Bukhari Mr M & Mrs R Bumbak Mr P & Mrs K Burke Mr N & Mrs K Burnett Mr R & Mrs D Burton Mr M & Mrs M Burych Mr P Byron Mr D & Mrs D Cameron Mr M Capelli Mr W & Mrs C Capes Mr P & Mrs C Caridi Mr C & Mrs M Carle Mr M Carmody Mr W & Mrs M Carmody Mr A & Mrs A Carvallio Mr M & Mrs J Casey Mr K & Mrs C Cass-Ryall Mr A Castley Mr M & Mrs K Caughey Mr M Chambers Mr S Chambers & Ms K Farina Mr K & Mrs L Chan Mr O & Mrs D Charlesworth Mr F & Mrs K Chia Mr H & Mrs C Chiari Mr D Chown Mr J Christie Mr G & Mrs V Cirillo Mr J & Mrs R Clarke Mr T & Mrs M Clune Anonymous Mr A & Mrs M Colley Mr S Collin Mr P & Mrs K Collins Mr T & Mrs K Collins Ms M Condon Mr C Cooper Mr C Cooper & Ms G Gielen Mr G & Mrs L Cooper Mr F & Mrs S Costa Mr G & Mrs C Costa Mr A & Mrs M Costello Mr D & Mrs C Cousins Mr C & Mrs K Craker Mr N Crawford Mr B & Mrs C Cripps Mr P & Mrs K Crute Dr S Csontos Mr B & Mrs K Cunning Mr M & Mrs E D’Amato SN and A D’Orazio and Son Mrs R D’Orazio & Mr M D’Orazio

legacy for future generations of Aquinas boys and I sincerely thank you for your generosity.

Louise Symonds Executive Officer Aquinas College Foundation

Mr T & Ms S Darbyshire Mrs M Davidson & Mr M Davidson Mr M Davidson Mrs J Davies Mr C & Mrs C Dawkins Mr G & Mrs M Dawson Mr J Day Mr E & Mrs K De Luca Mr S & Mrs D Delic Mr D & Mrs A Della Bona Mr S Della Bona Mr M & Mrs M Dempsey Mr R Dennis Ms K Destremau Mr L & Mrs T Dillon Mr M Dimmock Mr R Ditchburn Mr R & Mrs J Ditchburn Mr C & Mrs J Dixon Mr A & Mrs J Dolphin Ms S Donaldson Mr P & Mrs D Drake-Brockman Mr I Drennan & Ms E Mounsey Mr M & Mrs R Ducler des Rauches Mr N & Mrs N Dundas Mr S & Dr D Dunn Mr A & Mrs A Durmanich Mr D Dutilleux & Ms Y Winarto Mr A & Mrs K Dwyer Mr G & Mrs R Dyker Mr M & Mrs J Dykes Mr S & Mrs M Dymmott Mr B & Mrs S Edwards Mr L Evangelista Mr M Fallens Mr P & Mrs R Farmer Mr C & Mrs S Faulkner Mr G & Mrs R Fay Mr C Fell Mr S & Mrs K Ferraz Mr A & Mrs S Figueiredo Melo Mr B Finlay Anonymous Mr D Fissioli Mr J & Mrs M Fitzgerald Mr I & Mrs A Fletcher Mr D Forman Mr P Fornero Mr M & Mrs J Foss Mrs A Fowler (Anagha) Mr A & Mrs P Fraga-Diaz Mr A & Mrs A Francesca

Mr I & Mrs K Francis Mr M & Mrs H Freeman Mr G Fuchsbichler (Graeme) Mr D & Mrs J Fulwood Dr S & Dr S Ganapathipillai Mr A & Mrs J Gasmier Mr V Genever Dr A Giubilato Mr B & Mrs E Goeree Mr M & Mrs A Gomes Mr B & Mrs M Gorringe Mr M Goss Mr J & Mrs J Graham Mr C & Mrs L Grattidge Mr N & Mrs L Grazia Mr P & Mrs F Greenland Mrs Antonina Grier Mrs D Griffiths Mr M & Mrs C Griffiths Anonymous Mrs S Hadlow & Mr S Hadlow Mr S & Mrs S Hadlow Mr R Hales Mr N & Mrs L Hamilton Ms T Han Mrs R Hardey Mr M & Mrs M Harries Mr S & Mrs E Harris Mr J & Mrs S Hawke Miss D Hector & Mr A Bulleid Mr G & Mrs M Henderson Mr D & Mrs B Henri Mr T & Mrs K Herbert Mr T Herrmann & Ms K Abercromby Mrs E Hilder Mr C & Mrs T Hill Mr S Holloway Dr A Hooper Mr M Horan Mrs A Horgan Mr M & Mrs S Horsfall Mr M & Mrs K Hoskin Mrs E Hottes Mr D & Mrs C Hughan Mr M & Mrs A Hughes Mr I Humich Mr R & Mrs M Humich Mr M & Mrs A Hussey Mr K Hyman Mr J & Mrs S Hynes Mrs J Introvigne & Mr M Introvigne Mr A Jackson & Mrs M Liang-Jackson

Mr A & Mrs W Jacob Mr L Jannetta Mr T & Dr A Jaworski Dr E & Mrs C Jenkins Mr P Jiggins & Ms L Richardson Mr S & Mrs N Johns Mr R & Mrs L Johnston Mr R & Mrs D Jones Anonymous Mr D Kasthuriarachchige Don Mr JF & Ms SM Kelly Mr K & Mrs J Kelly Mr J & Mrs L Kennedy Mr P Kennedy & Ms C Olney Mr A & Mrs G Kenny Mr K & Mrs L Kent Mr C Keutzer Mr T & Mrs N Kilpatrick Mr M & Mrs V Kilroe Mrs K Kim Mr A King Mr P & Mrs L King Mr S & Mrs F Kivelhan Mr D & Mrs A Klumpp Mr R & Mrs B Koscak Mr D & Mrs A Koutsoukis Mr S & Mrs A L’Estrange Mr J & Mrs J Laffer Mr P Langford Mr P & Mrs M Latham Mr M & Mrs J Lawrence Mr D & Dr R Lea Mr T Leaver Mr A Lee Mr D Lee Dr J Lee & Ms V Tran Mr R Lee Mr S Leeson & Mrs H Lo Mr T & Mrs J Lego Mr J Lewins Mrs L Li & Mr S Li Dr Linda Lim Mr J & Mrs T Lodge Mr J Loney Mr A & Mrs L Lord Mr M & Mrs E Loughnan Mr V Lu & Ms T Vo Mrs C Luzny & Mr T Luzny Mr J Lyford & Ms J Samaras Mr B & Mrs K Lynn Macchiusi Family Mr C MacDonald Mr S Macdonald Mr P Mahar (Paul) Mr M & Mrs J Mailey Mr P & Mrs C Mais Dr S Males (Steven) Mr R & Mrs C Marston Ms C Martin Mr M & Mrs T Martino Mr S & Mrs S Martino Mr E & Mrs R Masaka Mr M & Mrs J Mascarenhas Mr B & Mrs T Mathanda Mr A Mazzega Mr M McCormack Mr K & Mrs C McGahren Mr M McGrath Mr W & Mrs D McKenzie Mr D & Mrs M McKinley Mr M McKinnon Anonymous Mr N & Mrs L McLean Mr W & Mrs K McLean Mr T & Mrs N McLernon Mr D & Mrs S McLlheney Mrs J McMahon & Mr S McMahon

Mr B & Mrs T McNab Mrs J McNee Mr S & Mrs N McPartland Mr G & Mrs N McRobb Mr P & Mrs P McVittie Mrs L Mele De Carvalho Curley Mr B Mendez Mr A Mendoza & Dr H CabaluMendoza Anonymous Mr P & Mrs K Mills Mr D & Mrs M Milne Dr D Mincham Mr S & Mrs N Moir Mr E & Mrs L Mollica Mr S & Mrs S Moltoni Mr I Monkhouse Mr D & Mrs K Morgan Mr G Moustoukas & Ms L Downey Dr A & Mrs P Mukherjee Mr B & Mrs B Mumme Mr A Murphy Mr J & Mrs A Murray Mr J & Mrs S Mutter Mr M & Mrs S Nagle Mr G & Mrs L Naso Mrs M Nazzari & Mr W Nazzari Mr W & Mrs M Nazzari Mr L & Mrs M Nel Mr J & Mrs S Newby Mr S & Mrs B Nolan Mr R Nulsen (Dick) Mr J & Mrs N Nuttall Mr G & Mrs S O’Brien Mrs JM O’Callaghan Mr P O’Dowd & Ms S Aiken Old Aquinians’ Reunion Tour Ms G O’Loughlin Mr S Oaten Dr C Ogwu & Dr B Itotoh Mr E Ong & Ms Z Ye Mr K & Mrs R Osman Mr P Ovens (Paul) Mr P & Mrs M Overheu Mr G & Mrs C Paganoni Mr M & Mrs C Paganoni Mr J & Mrs S Panizza Mr R & Mrs J Panizza Mr C Paoliello Mr S & Mrs A Parr Mr R & Mrs G Passmore Mr M & Mrs L Peacock Mr T & Mrs D Pearce Mr C Pearson & Ms T Williams Mr G & Mrs J Pearson Mr J & Mrs A Pemberton Mr T & Mrs E Perrott Mr P Perry Dr R & Mrs K Perry Mr R & Mrs A Petchell Mr D & Mrs E Pike Mr M & Mrs S Pitts Mr D & Mrs T Plant Mr A & Mrs F Portaro Mr G & Mrs K Povey Mr A & Mrs M Powell Mr R & Mrs S Power Mr M Prandi Mr M & Mrs S Prandi Mr G & Mrs R Praxl Mr P Prendiville Mr A Prentice (Adam) Mr J & Mrs E Quinn Mrs M Rabanuel & Mr R Quinn Mr J & Mrs S Radonich Mr S Rae Mr T Rae

Mr D Ramsay Mr M & Mrs V Raphael Mr J Redmond Mr C Richards Mrs L Richards Mr R & Mrs S Ricupero Mr M & Mrs K Ridgwell Mr A & Mrs C Ridolfo Mr B & Mrs C Ritchie Mr C Robinson Dr J & Mrs J Robinson Ms R Robson Mr A & Mrs M Rocchiccioli Mr R & Mrs K Romeo Mr B & Mrs T Roncio Mr M Roncio Mr M & Mrs T Rosa Mr C & Mrs K Ross Mr G & Mrs S Rule Mr C Russell Dr P Russell Mr D & Mrs C Rutley Mr T Sader Mr J & Mrs V Salerian Dr S Salfinger Mr I Saunders Mr W & Mrs D Scaini Mr H & Mrs M Schmidt Mr B & Mrs J Schortinghuis Mr J & Mrs E Scotney Mr M & Mrs J Scott Scott-Waugh Family Mr C & Mrs C Sears Mr A & Mrs K Settineri Mr M Shanahan Mr M & Mrs F Sheppard Mr M Silipo & Ms K Carmody Mr M & Mrs K Simon Mrs T Simonaitis Mr B & Mrs L Sinclair Mr G & Ms S Sinclair Mr G Sinnott Mr S & Mrs M Sljivic Mr D & Mrs J Smith Mr G & Mrs J Smith Mr J & Mrs M Smith M & D Smith Mr T & Mrs J Soudom Mr S Sparrow & Ms L Barnes Mr A Spinks Mr T Squire (Tim) Mr D Squires & Mrs S Dale-Squires Mr M & Mrs A Steber Mr P & Mrs M Steber Mr P Stelmach Mr S Stenvers Mr P & Mrs L Stickland Mr K & Mrs V Stone Mr M & Mrs C Sullivan Mrs K Sumich Mr P & Mrs J Sumich Mr M & Mrs H Svosve Mrs L Syed & Dr D Syed Mr S & Mrs A Taranto Mr C & Mrs J Tate Mr B & Mrs N Taylor Mr R Taylor Mr W & Mrs L Taylor Mr D & Mrs T Teale Mr A Teasdale (Andrew) Mr I & Mrs F Terriaca Mr L & Mrs M Thong Mr L Trewartha & Mrs C Bracknell Mr T & Mrs G Triscari Mr P & Mrs H Trueman Ms C Truscott & Mr M Healy Mrs D Turner

Mr G Turner Mr M Turner Mr M Slatter Mr J Valentine & Ms R ValentineLouttit Mr J Van Der Wielen Mr K & Mrs K Vanderweide Mr A Variyan & Ms P Reynolds Mr P & Mrs S Vassileff Mr M & Mrs L Vlismas Mr W & Mrs B Wagner Mr J & Mrs J Wallis Ms D Walsh Mrs L Walters Mr G & Mrs L Walton Mr A Warenczak Mr D & Mrs T Warlters Mr P & Mrs S Waters Mr G & Mrs S Watkins Mr S & Mrs L Watson Mr M & Mrs E Webb Mr P & Mrs S Webb Mr T & Mrs K Wessels Mr K & Mrs M West Mr R Wharton Mr D & Mrs L Wheller Mr B & Mrs N White Mr J & Mrs A Whiteford Mr K Wilhelm Mr I & Mrs D Williamson Mr J & Mrs J Winnett Dr R & Mrs S Wittkuhn Mr S & Mrs D Woewodin Mr D Woodford Mr S & Mrs K Woods Mr S & Mrs S Woods Mr P Woodward Mr A Worth Mr G Wouts & Dr E Glasson Mr P & Mrs C Wright Ms M Young Mr D & Mrs A Zaza Mr L Zhang & Ms Y Yan Dr H & Mrs S Zhu Mr J & Mrs R Zito

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City Toyota 2018 Starry, Starry Night Foundation Ball The countdown is on for the highly-anticipated Aquinas College Foundation Ball, to be held in the Brother Paull Centre on Saturday 20th October 2018.

Proceeds from the 2018 Foundation Ball will directly support the Aquinas College Scholarship Program, providing support for members of our College community who are in need as well as those who would otherwise be unable to attend Aquinas College.

We are excited to announce City Toyota as the major sponsor for the 2018 Foundation Ball and look forward to partnering with Dealer Principal Wayne

Smith (a current parent) to achieve our fundraising objectives.

Tickets to this signature Foundation event are now available for purchase, so get your tables of ten together and submit your ticket orders now to avoid disappointment.

If you are in a position to assist with a Major or Silent Auction item or a raffle item, or you would like to know more about sponsorship opportunities for your business, we would love to hear from you.

For ticket sales and further information, please contact Louise Symonds on 9450 0799 or foundation@ aquinas.wa.edu.au.

The Aquinas College Foundation invites you to our

City Toyota

Starry , Starry Night Aquinas College Foundation Ball Saturday 20 October 2018 - Br Paull Centre, Aquinas College Doors open at 6.30pm - Black Tie Table Packages Tables for 10 people $2,400 - Sponsors’ Tables for 10 people $5,000 For bookings, please complete the attached Booking Form and return it to foundation@aquinas.wa.edu.au

AQUINAS COLLEGE

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Foundation

1894

From the President.....

The Old Aquinians’ Association (OAA) started off 2018 with its annual Business Breakfast, which was held in the College’s Hughes’ Dining Hall on 2nd March 2018. We were pleased Headmaster David McFadden agreed to be guest speaker at the breakfast. For many of the more than 125 attendees it was their first opportunity to meet and listen to the Headmaster. For some, like myself, it was a “reunion” with David who was Deputy Headmaster when we were students at Aquinas in the 1990s!

David provided a presentation on the College’s plan to introduce a series of initiatives to revitalise its current educational provision and raise its standards and expectations. It was a comprehensive topic that generated a number of thoughtful questions and discussions from the audience.

Unfortunately, I was not able to attend the 84th Annual Dinner of the Beverley and Districts Combined Public Schools Old Boys’ Association, hosted this year by Guildford Grammar School on 6th April. The OAA committee, however, was once again represented by Bob Kestel (’53), along with a number

of Old Boys from Beverley and the surrounding districts who regularly attend the dinner.

Our next event will be the OAA Members’ Sundowner on Wednesday 16th May 2018, from 5.30-8pm. A new venue has been chosen for this year’s event; The Vic in Subiaco, co-owned by Bevan Marwick (’05). With the growing popularity of the Sundowner among OAA members in recent years, this is shaping up to be another successful evening. We hope you mark it in your diary and are able to come along for a drink or two.

Finally, the OAA’s Annual General Meeting this year is scheduled for 17th August 2018 at 6pm in the Hughes’ Dining Hall before our Annual Dinner.

A formal notice of this event will be distributed closer to the day.

Matthew Noonan-Crowe (’99) President Old Aquinians’ Association

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alumni news Congratulations to four Old Aquinians who were recognised in this year’s Australia Day Honours.

Victor Paino (’55), Geoff Churack (’55) and Michael Gurry (’64) were awarded membership in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AM) and Marc Ablong (’84) received a Public Service Medal (Federal).

The Old Aquinians were awarded for significant contributions to their respective communities and the business sector.

Mr Paino was recognised for his service to the seafood retailing industry, to ship supply services and to the community through his support of charitable groups.

He was chair of the Australian Ship Suppliers and Services Association from 1993 to 2000 and director of Sealanes for many years. Mr Paino was also founding director of the Fremantle Hospital Medical Research Foundation Board and is currently director of Fremantle Hospital. He was an inaugural inductee into the Fremantle Business Hall of Fame in 2002.

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Mr Paino has spent many years supporting Rotary of Fremantle. He was a member from 1983-2000 and has worked as the organisation’s international service director. He became an honorary member in 2000.

Geoff Churack was awarded an honour in recognition of his service to the community through philanthropic support of medical research, education and sporting groups as well as his work in the retail automotive sector.

Mr Churack was a philanthropic contributor to the establishment of the University of Notre Dame’s Churack Chair of Chronic Pain Education and Research in 2013. He is an ongoing benefactor of Aquinas College and financial supporter, former player and life member of the South Perth Cricket Club.

His commitment to sport is also evident through his life membership of Incogniti Cricket Club – England and WA, along with his foundation membership of Corinthian Park Tennis Club (since 1977).

Mr Churack was awarded the Order of the Knights of the Southern Cross (WA), was chairman of Knicross

Enterprises in 2001-06 and has been director since 1983.

His career in the automotive industry has included former ownership and management of several car dealerships for GM Holden, BMW and Toyota from 1965-2015.

Michael Gurry was recognised for his service to charitable organisations through fundraising and cooperative networking roles and to social welfare programs in Cambodia.

Mr Gurry has chaired many charitable organisations throughout his career, including; Tabitha Australia (inaugural chair) since 2015, Foundation Housing 2009-17 and United Way 1999-2007.

He was the co-founder of The Helping Foundation and has been executive director since 2010.

Mr Gurry has been a member of Rotary Club of Perth for the past 28 years and was a finalist in the Senior Australian of the Year WA award in 2017.

In the corporate world, his career at HBF has included roles as group general manager (1995-99), managing director (1999-2007) and councillor (since 2009).

Alongside this, Mr Gurry has been a non-executive director of Joyce Corporation and Bedshed Franchising Pty Ltd since 2008. He was chair of the Forest Products Commission from 2008-12, vice president of the Asian Association of Management Organisations 1997-99 and fulfilled many roles with the Australian Institute of Management including; national president, WA president, board member and fellow.

Marc Ablong was awarded a Public Service Medal for his outstanding public service through the advancement of Australia’s defence capability.

Mr Ablong has been instrumental in the development of the Department of Defence’s Strategic Policy since the mid-2000s. He assisted in the Review of Defence Accountability Framework from 2009-10 which was the first comprehensive review to examine personal and institutional accountability in Defence.

Mr Ablong developed the Simplified Defence Business Model and Enterprise Risk Management Framework as part of the strategic reform agenda focus on governance arrangements with Defence.

He was subsequently tasked with leading the multidisciplinary team which developed the 2016 Defence White Paper. This was one of the most comprehensive exercises to ever be undertaken in Australian Defence planning.

John Prior (’79) was appointed a Judge of the WA District Court earlier in the year. John has extensive experience as a barrister, specialising in criminal law and has worked in all three levels of the State’s court systems, both in Perth and regional areas. John was admitted to practice in 1985 and joined the Independent Bar in 2005. His new appointment was announced in February.

Old Aquinian Zac Incerti (’13) made it a clean sweep on the podium for Australia in the 50m Backstroke at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

Zac won bronze in the pool after

qualifying with the fastest time in the heats. He headed to his debut games with a national title win in the Mens 50m Backstroke at games trials.

Old Aquinian and Kookaburras hockey player Aran Zalewski (’08) won gold at the Commonwealth Games. Aran was part of the side which won gold against New Zealand in a tight contest ending in a 2-0 win for the team. The win continues the Kookaburras amazing Commonwealth Games success with a 20-year gold medal streak and sixth consecutive crown at the games.

Tom Garlepp (’03) was part of the gold medal winning team at this year’s Basketball 3x3 Asia Cup. The Australian team won the gold medal play off against 2017 winner’s Mongolia.

Old Aquinian Ben O’Connor (’13) is taking part in the gruelling three-week Giro D’Italia cycling race. Ben and his team will compete in multiple stages which cross the Italian countryside and neighbouring countries.

Photos left page Photo 1 top left Victor Paino Photo 2 Geoff and Moira Churack Photo 3 Michael Gurry Photo 4 Marc Ablong

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Old Aquinians continuing to serve At a recent meeting of the St Thomas the Apostle Claremont Parish Conference of the Society of St Vincent de Paul, the comment was made that “Old Aquinians were running the joint!“.

While that is not exactly the case it certainly is true that of the total membership of 11, six are Old Boys of the College (including one honorary member!)

All have very wonderful and positive memories of their time at the College as evidenced by the fact several have maintained their links to the school by sending their sons to Aquinas – Moira’s sons, Isaac (‘92) and Ben (‘94); Leo’s sons, Daniel (‘01), Joseph (‘04) and Ben (‘12); and John Loney’s son James Caspersz-Loney graduated last year; while John James was the school counsellor across the years ’77 to ‘81.

Although the Claremont Conference is located in what could be called a

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relatively affluent part of Perth there is an ongoing demand for the range of services provided by the Society, generally in the Mt Claremont and Mosman Park areas. In particular, home visits bringing emergency relief of food and household furniture, plus providing vouchers which can be used at the Vinnies Shops for clothing and basics are carried out on a daily basis. Many of the recipients of these services have chronic mental and/ or physical health issues and will have continuing needs for assistance. Financial counselling services are also provided.

The Claremont Conference also makes separate weekly bread and vegetable runs providing additional support.

Across the whole State, there are 75 Vinnies Conferences and in 2017, the Society made a total of 32,739 home visitations. The College has an active Branch of the Society and it is hoped boys will continue to serve the poor

and marginalised in their community by joining a local Conference once they leave school. We consider this is a manifestation of the teachings of Edmund Rice.

By John Loney (’65) Photo: Back Row: Leo McManus (’65), Peter Fornero (’69), John James (’62) Front Row: John Loney (’65), Moira Hudson-Smith (Teacher ’91-’98), Ray Ryan (’66).

Head of the Air Race 1934 It was a sky race which saw Old Boys from across Perth’s boys schools compete in their “flying machines” and battle for the prestigious Head of the Air Cup. With fierce competition reminiscent of the Head of the River, the Head of the Air encouraged Old Boys of the colleges and grammar schools to support their schools and try to win the honour of Head of the Air. The annual flying competition was raced over five laps of a closed circuit of 10 miles to the lap at the Royal Aero Club of WA in Maylands.

CBC Perth graduate Clem Bignell (’20) won the inaugural race in 1934.

“On the 13th October 1934, an air-race over 15 miles was conducted at Maylands. The competitors were representatives of the Public Schools

ex-scholars, who agreed that the winner should present the trophy to his College and receive a miniature for himself… The successful flier was Clem Bignell of CBC. Clem attended the College from 191420. He was a good all-round athlete, representing the School in Football, Cricket and Shooting. Congratulations to you, Clem, first ‘Head of the Air’.”

Clem was celebrated in his hometown of Busselton following his win. The South-West News reported an honorary dinner was held in recognition of his achievement, where he was awarded a small silver aeroplane ornament by guests.

Clem was the first to gain his pilot’s licence in the district of Busselton in 1928. He was acknowledged in the South West News “bringing honour and distinction to Busselton”.

“It says much for his public spirit – and physical courage – that he has applied himself to qualify for a service

that has come to count for so much to Australia for commercial and defence purposes.”

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Old Aquinians’ Calendar of Events OAA Members Sundowner Wednesday, 16th May 2018

1988 Reunion Saturday, 8th September 2018

Class of 2017 Leavers’ Breakfast Wednesday, 13th June 2018 TBC

1978 Reunion Saturday, 8th September 2018

2008 Reunion Saturday, 16th June 2018

Senior Old Boys Day Thursday, 6th September 2018

1968 Reunion Saturday, 23rd June 2018

1998 Reunion Saturday, 15th September 2018 TBC

NSW Reunion Wednesday, 11th July 2018

Victoria Reunion TBC

Please provide your email address to Dolores Castelino for up-to-date details of events: events@aquinas.wa.edu.au If you have any queries regarding these events or have a reunion year coming up, please contact Dolores Castelino in the Development Office at Aquinas on 9450 0660.

OAA Annual Dinner Friday, 17th August 2018

Class of 2008 - 10 Year Reunion

Save the Date!

Saturday 16th June 2018

Old Aquinians’ NSW Reunion

Time:.................3.00pm - 7.00pm Venue:...............Cheeky Sparrow,Wolf Lane

317 Murray St, Perth Cost:..................$25 per person.

RSVP:................Payment to the College

Friday 8th June 2018.

Payment:..........Pay via the College Online Store.

Enquiries: Julian Gardner 0418 930 703 julian@westernair.com.au Dolores Castelino 9450 0660 events@aquinas.wa.edu.au 40 / the fish

Wednesday, 11th July 2018 A few years have passed, and quite a number of our Old Boys have moved East.

What a great opportunity to catch up on everyone’s news, past and present.

Enquiries Brent Jackson (’84) 0400 303 791 brent.jackson@me.com Dolores Castelino: (08) 9450 0660 Dolores.castelino@aquinas.wa.edu.au