FISH - magazine of Aquinas College | Term 4 December 2019

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

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Middle School Excellence Award Winners 2019

To achieve a Certificate of Excellence a student must obtain 90 per cent excellent ratings in their Term Report. Congratulations to the following Middle School boys who achieved a Certificate of Excellence in their Marian Term 3 Reports:

Jonathan Vinci Year 7 Glowrey

Daniel Setiawan Year 7 Bryan Banjo Young Year 7 Bryan

David Arcaro Year 7 Glowrey

Thomas Chew Year 7 Bryan

Declan Connell Year 7 Bryan Jacob Della Bona Year 7 Edmund Michael Elhaj Year 7 Bryan Nishok Nimalan Year 7 Treacy

Kiran Bhat Year 7 Bryan

Conrad Jackson Year 7 Treacy

David Stopforth Year 7 Glowrey

David Csontos Year 7 Bryan

Charles Mavrick Year 7 Glowrey

Tristen Wisewould Year 7 Edmund Declan Zammit Year 7 Edmund Joshua Arcaro Year 7 Glowrey

Lucas Borromei Year 7 Bryan Finn Murray Year 7 Glowrey

Riley Nel Year 7 Treacy

Lachlan Parisotto Year 7 Treacy Xavier Pike Year 7 Glowrey

Tom Stokes Year 7 Edmund

Zane Vlahov Year 7 Edmund Joseph Fimmel Year 7 Edmund

Sebastian Fulwood Year 7 Bryan John Hooper Year 7 Edmund

Rainer Lin Year 7 Treacy

Lachlan Murray Year 8 Edmund Ethan Dixon Year 8 Bryan Matthew Gardner Year 8 Bryan Matthew Vinci Year 8 Glowrey

Thomas Eade Year 8 Edmund

William Hussey Year 8 Glowrey

Matteo Conte Year 8 Glowrey

Luke Griffiths Year 8 Glowrey

Jakob Taylor Year 8 Edmund

Marvin Fong Year 8 Glowrey

Solomon Ashe Year 8 Bryan

Max Christie Year 8 Bryan Rory Watson Year 8 Glowrey

Presley Campbell Year 8 Edmund

Tobias Melang Year 8 Edmund

Thomas Millard Year 8 Glowrey Clancy Charlton Year 8 Bryan Zac Borgomastro Year 8 Treacy

Ethan O'Connor Year 8 Edmund

Michael Nicoletti Year 8 Edmund

Jake Zito Year 8 Edmund

Nolan Robinson Year 8 Bryan

Benjamin Hall Year 8 Treacy

Charles Henderson Year 8 Edmund

Matthew Wallace Year 8 Glowrey

Joshua Pensabene Year 8 Glowrey

Kurtis Tanna Year 9 Bryan

Alik Papaphotis Year 9 Edmund

Michael O'Sullivan Year 9 Treacy Joseph Setiawan Year 9 Bryan Truman Han Year 9 Bryan Leo Paoliello Year 9 Glowrey Evan Cooper Year 9 Glowrey

Jared Cardoso Year 9 Glowrey Blake Davies Year 9 Bryan

Matthew Paoliello Year 9 Glowrey

Callum Peacock Year 9 Glowrey

Kane Read Year 9 Treacy

Ethan Blackadder Year 9 Treacy

Thomas Brennan Year 9 Treacy

Ashton Teixeira Year 9 Edmund Jack Johnston Year 9 Bryan

Alec Jorgensen Year 9 Bryan Buz Brady Year 9 Bryan Jamie Bucat Year 9 Edmund Zayn Bukhari Year 9 Glowrey Gibson Castley Year 9 Edmund Adam Csontos Year 9 Bryan Oliver Radotic Year 9 Bryan

Kynan Sugg Year 9 Edmund Marcel Bianchini Year 9 Treacy

Wookwon Han Year 9 Treacy

Daniel Green Year 9 Glowrey

Carl Bowring Year 9 Treacy Jacob White Year 9 Edmund Nicholas Farmer Year 9 Glowrey

Leadership: an essential ingredient

Leadership is essential aspect for all our students’ learning journeys not just the few. Our Prefect structure has undergone a radical restructure to reflect this fact.

We live in a VUCA world, defined by the US military as Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous. With digital disruption, globalisation and demographic shifts changing Australia’s future skill needs, formal qualifications and technical skills are merely part of the requirements for the modern workforce. Soft-skill intensive occupations are expected to account for two thirds (63%) of all jobs in Australia by 2030, according to the Soft Skills for Business Success report by Deloitte Access Economics.

Soft skills –also referred to as employability skills, enterprise skills and transferable skills, such as communication, teamwork, problemsolving, emotional judgment, professional ethics and global citizenship – are just as important to our success

today as in the future.

Ten out of the 16 crucial proficiencies in the 21st century identified by the

World Economic Forum (2015) are, in fact, non-technical. Leadership of self and others will become an increasing

for tomorrow’s world

demand in tomorrow’s workplace.

In response, all Aquinas College students today are being called to become increasingly more active participants in the life and works not only of their College community but also in broader society, to develop themselves for the benefit of others. They are challenged to demonstrate the type of leadership as exemplified by Jesus and Edmund Rice.

To help equip them for this, Aquinas College has developed a new approach to nurturing leadership qualities and practices with four leadership programs available to students.

Junior School leaders (badge) Middle School leaders (tie) Senior School Prefects (blazer trim) College/Council Captains (blazer)

The purpose of these programs is to make leadership experiences accessible to every student in the College community and assist them with the development of skills and practices vital to their formation as young Christian men

for tomorrow. Experiences within the programs will develop leadership skills, support personal development and enrich the College community. As boys progress through the College, they will encounter an array of opportunities to accept leadership roles in supporting the day-today organisation of the schools.

The Senior School Leadership Program encourages students to explicitly engage with the Edmund Rice Touchstones; Liberating Education, Inclusive Community, Gospel Spirituality and Justice and Solidarity, through experiences that allow for critical reflection, engagement, acceptance and a call for action. Many of these activities are facilitated via the team leadership challenge, one of the key components of the program.

The Senior School Leadership Program’s core components include a commitment to Service Learning, contributing to House community, faith formation, across College excellence, living College values, the team leadership

challenge and reflection, review and goal setting.

To satisfy these core components, our Senior School students will engage in a variety of practical skills including collaboration, critical thinking, resilience, empathy and initiative. As part of the program, students will complete a performance-based assessment based on a number of sub-competencies to demonstrate these practical skills. These sub-competencies have been included as part of the 21st Century Skills BadgesEducation Design Lab.

It is hoped that the many activities, including the team challenge, allow students to take ownership of the College culture and be servant leaders for fellow students, staff and the wider community.

David McFadden Principal

College and Council Captains 2020

The new Senior School Leadership Program requires students to satisfy all of its components in order to be eligible to become a Senior School Prefect. As is the case with the Middle School program, it is not a position that comes with duties and responsibilities, but rather is a public and formal acknowledgement the student has completed the leadership program and, therefore, has developed his leadership skills, experience and capacity.

Senior School Prefects elected to the roles of College and Council Captains, however, have specific duties and responsibilities. Each captain works with a key staff member to establish a committee of other interested younger students undergoing leadership programs. These committees focus on a particular area of the College. The captains are charged with one goal, to write their legacy and ensure that Aquinas becomes a better place than it is today. Congratulations to the following students who will lead the College and its Councils in 2020;

2020 Aquinas College Captains

College Captains College Captain - Kynan Ganza College Vice-Captain - Samuel Collins

Council Captains Chaney House - Samuel Lego Cullity House - Declan Jefferys Durack House - Luke Egger Prendiville House - Tom McGrath

Academic - Oliver Lego Advocacy - Dylan Teasdale Boarding - Joshua Cripps Culture - Samuel Dixon

Divinity - James Brennan Service - Thomas Grier

Sport - Ryan Fox Student Wellbeing - Frank Lei

Class of 2019 celebrates graduation

“The memories I cherish the most from this place all have one thing in common. I’m not alone in any of them.”

2019 College Captain Ben Darbyshire.

Graduation Day celebrated the Class of 2019’s Aquinas College journey. From early beginnings in Year 4 for some, the cohort grew as students progressed through Junior School, into the middle years and finally, to Year 12.

College Captain Ben Darbyshire spoke of the camaraderie among Class of 2019 students throughout their time at Aquinas during his speech to classmates at Graduation celebrations.

“Whether it be chewing dust while running up Spew Hill, burning up while on an ergo or battling my way through a strenuous Maths exam, I’ve known there has always been another bloke going through the exact same situation, and I sincerely hope that everyone else has known that they’ve never been alone,” he said.

“Whether you know it or not, every single person here has been an incarnation of the College’s values at some point in time in their own special way, and has also been the source of great inspiration.”

“What I love about this cohort is that whether you’re a larrikin, musician, actor, sportsman, academic, religious, or whether you are simply you, everyone has contributed to making the Class of 2019, the Class of 2019, and subsequently into making Aquinas, Aquinas.”

Ben spoke of a Harvard University study on adult development which followed the lives of 720 men for more than 75 years, illustrating the importance of healthy male relationships.

“..all this was done to answer the question ‘what makes a good life?’ The answer, it turns out, was blindingly obvious.”

“It wasn’t wealth, fame, success or anything of that kind which lead to happiness or a greater sense of life

fulfilment; but rather healthy, strong and positive relationships. The study also found that those who were the most satisfied with the quality of their relationships at age 50, were the healthiest at age 80.”

“With this in mind, whether you’re fighting it out at ‘the G’ next year, travelling the world, grinding it out at university or doing what makes you you, keep in touch, and make sure you foster and cherish those relationships you’ve spent years growing.”

“As a cohort we already know the value of mateship, and the hole a lack of it can leave. So as we grow, let’s stay in touch.”

Aquinas College staff, students and community wish the graduating Class of 2019 every success and happiness in their future endeavours.

Odyssey adventures for Year 9 students

From braving the towering heights of a tall ship’s mast to exploring the depths of caves, walking a half marathon and camping solo – Year 9 students have been challenged throughout the Odyssey Journey program in its inaugural year.

A key part of the program saw the Year 9 cohort spend two weeks of Term 4 undertaking a series of planned activities designed to take students out of their comfort zones and teach them key life skills, such as resilience, character development and collaboration.

During the Odyssey Weeks boys experienced a three-day adventure on the Leeuwin tall ship learning the ropes,

navigating, and climbing the mast, or participated in a Margaret River outdoor education camp, caving, abseiling and tackling high ropes courses.

Year 9 Jordan Connelly says the Odyssey Journey was “…a challenge and a half.”

“We got to do things that the First Fleet did like climb the mast and set the sails. The food was fantastic and the crew was friendly. I recommend this journey for all future Year 9s,” Jordan says.

Head of Middle School Michael Dempsey says the fortnight included a vast array of activities which catered for the diverse interests of the cohort as well as offered opportunities for the boys to learn new skills and test themselves.

“Students were learning how to cook, working with Conservation Australia in the environment, completing an ‘Amazing Race’ day and much more,” Mr Dempsey says.

“The boys also participated in a retreat, study skills and men’s health workshops to complete the fortnight of activities,” he says.

“The two weeks were action packed providing boys a mix of challenging, character building, collaborative and fun-filled activities which would have exhausted even the most spirited Year 9 student.”

Year 9 Isaac Sweeting says his Odyssey Journey was a challenging but enjoyable experience.

“I felt like I was pushed to my limits and grew as a person, for example, I am scared of heights but I still climbed the mast on the Leeuwin. I felt as though I changed over the Odyssey Weeks and made lasting new friendships,” Isaac says.

One group of Leeuwin adventurers learnt perseverance and how to deal with disappointment when bad weather led to the ship staying in dock during their three days aboard.

Year 9 student Jared Cardoso says despite not leaving the dock he and his classmates had “lots of fun” and also learnt lessons in patience and compromise during their Leeuwin experience.

“Even though my group didn’t leave the docks due to the weather conditions, we still managed to get together and have a great time. A huge factor in the reason that we still had a great time was the

crew of the Leeuwin, they were always supportive and happy to play a game of Uno and have a laugh,” says Year 9 Ethan Blackadder.

The Year 9 Odyssey Journey runs in conjunction with the Middle School Veritas Program.

Mr Dempsey says the Year 9 Veritas Program focuses on what it means to be a man in today’s society.

“It’s designed to empower boys to take responsibility for being good men through self-discovery, by exploring who they are and understanding their personal values,” he explains.

“This enables them to develop a positive connection to society. By the end of the program the boys have a stronger sense of personal responsibility in all aspects of their life, their family, the Aquinas community and the wider global community.”

“Every student in Year 7-9 participates in a Veritas lesson once per week covering topics such as character education, critical thinking skills, wellbeing and help seeking behaviours, study skills, creativity, leadership and other 21st century soft skills that are integral to today’s education.”

Junior School events

Junior creativity on show at the annual Visual Art Exhibition

Aquinas Junior School celebrated its 13th Visual Art Exhibition this year, with staff and community reminiscing about how the event has developed in the junior years since its infancy in the early 2000s.

Junior School Art Specialist Avril Wilcox says the exhibition had “humble beginnings”.

“…with two trollies of equipment on each floor of the Junior campus visiting class to class, to the sharing of a music/ art space week to week, to the amazing space we use today to display Junior School artwork,” Ms Wilcox says.

“Year after year this fabulous area is converted into a gallery to showcase all our talented students and their creative art pieces,” she says.

She says the work displayed reflected a varied program which included a considerable variety of techniques, materials and ideas for students to explore. All of which were underpinned

by the elements and principals of art.

“Students progress through the years from Early Years exploring basic elements such as shape and line, through to Year 6 where they are creating sophisticated designs combining these elements and principals, ideas and techniques to ultimately guide their own making process, the results of which were visible to see.”

Grandparents Day 2019

Year 4s had a Grandparents’ Day on Friday 9th August. We started the morning with a liturgy in the College Chapel which included photos or our grandparents and a video presentation on what they mean to us and what we like to do when we are with them.

We then all headed back to the Junior School and were put into three groups and rotated around three activities: teaching our grandparents our instruments, a Kahoot quiz, and a morning tea in the Library. It was great to celebrate our grandparents.

We all had so much fun and we can’t wait to do it again next year.

Christian O’Neill & Silas King Year 4 Black

The new nature playground - a place for play

The new Early Years nature playground is a space for some of our youngest Aquinians to explore, make new friends, create, imagine and learn.

The new play space was completed in August, under the watchful eyes of students eagerly anticipating its “grand opening.”

Head of Junior School Nicole Monzu says the playground offers students a large range of play options, catering for the diversity of their interests.

“There are places to hide, to build, to balance and to climb,” Mrs Monzu says.

She says it is well-noted that play is the work of the child, essential to healthy development, it enriches creativity whilst allowing children to develop emotionally.

“Outdoor play allows boys to develop coordination, build gross motor skills and communicate in unique ways with each other,” she says.

“Nature play in particular has the added benefits of risk and adventure. The boys learn to coordinate as they assess hazards. They may stumble and fall but they will build independence through

experiencing this on their own. We have seen collaboration and connection with others, teamwork and turn taking.”

Mrs Monzu says the College is grateful for the P&F’s contribution to the project, helping to create a play space that Aquinas students can enjoy for many years to come which supports the values of the College’s Early Years education program.

“Our beautiful adventure playground with its forts, bridges, water pump, tunnels, campsites, tee pees and sand play is a space that can become anything the boys imagine. A place to engineer the next bridge, build elaborate structures and design new and unknown adventures.”

“Most of all - a place for play.”

Early Years

PP explores Kings Park with classic Australian characters

Pre-Primary students acted out the timeless Australian classic story of Snuggle Pot and Cuddle Pie during a visit to Kings Park as spring bloomed across Perth. The boys acted out the story, learnt about Australian bush flora and fauna, and also got a chance to play in the picturesque nature scape.

Food shopping takes on a Kindy flavour

Kindy boys got a behind-the-scenes look at the workings of a supermarket during their first official excursion this year. The tour included visiting the bakery, butchery, fresh produce section, loading zone, dairy fridge, freezer, box crusher and rubbish zone – there was so much to see and learn about according to the boys.

Kindergarten teacher Lucy Masarei says students were intrigued by all of the different processes used to operate a supermarket efficiently.

“We finished off our tour of Woolworths enjoying some fresh fruit and vegetables. The excursion was a great opportunity for the boys to understand where their food comes from as well as have some great conversations about healthy eating,” Ms Masarei says.

Early Years Book Week celebrations on parade

From Cat in the Hat to the Green Sheep, Harry Potter to Willy Wonka – book characters come to life during annual Book Week celebrations across Australia, and at Aquinas our Early Years students always anticipate parade day!

Pre-Primary teacher Allison Lilly says the opportunity to celebrate literature during Book Week is always enjoyed by students and staff alike.

“It is always wonderful to see the range of creative costumes and the number of characters from much-loved stories which grace our runway,” Ms Lilly says.

“This year staff came as characters from A Sausage Went for a Walk. Mrs Bevan narrated the story and the teachers acted out and spoke the dialogue from the text. A lot of fun was had by all. Reading the short listed books is always a treat and we learn a lot about writing and reading along the way,” she says.

Madagascar Jr escapes the zoo!

The Middle School production of Madagascar Jr hit the McAppion Theatre stage in October. It was performed to sell-out crowds and was a resounding success for the cast and crew.

Director Emma Leopardi says the cast of 62, including 51 Middle School and 11 Mercedes College students, worked tirelessly over a three-month period to perfect the show.

“The production was a credit to all involved. It was wonderful to see so many young people fully engaged and enjoying themselves onstage,” Ms Leopardi says.

Madagascar Jr, based on the DreamWorks movie, took the audience on a musical adventure with Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the Hippo and Skipper and his crew.

Marty celebrated his 10th birthday with his friends but was having a bit of a midlife crisis – and dreamt of what might be outside the walls of their enclosure

at the New York Central Park Zoo. His friends unwittingly escaped with him from the zoo and after various mishaps found themselves in Madagascar.

Ms Leopardi says the cast’s commitment to the show was truly impressive and was to be congratulated.

“For some it was the first time they have been involved in a stage show and it has been an eye-opening experience - for others it marked their second or third production. It was wonderful to showcase the talents of this cast and watch them grow and develop over the rehearsal period,” she says.

“A huge thank you to the Arts staff and crew without whom this production would not be possible!”

The end of a boarding era

The Antonio, Woods and Steber families have been part of the Aquinas boarding community for 35, 14 and nine years respectively and celebrated the graduation of their youngest sons in 2019.

Allie Steber remembers the first day of boarding for one of her eldest sons, Rory, as a day of apprehension and excitement, as he began boarding in Year 7 without his triplet brothers who made the move to boarding the following year.

“The day we bought Rory to Gibney House for the first time it was stinking hot. I remember how pleased I was that a previous boarding parent had suggested I buy Rory a fan!” Allie recalls.

“It was a busy afternoon, unpacking Rory’s things, with all the family there,” she says.

“The best part was when Rory’s Year 11 Mentor came to see if we were all ok – all of us. It was hard leaving him at Gibney but exciting at the same time. We knew intrinsically that he was in good hands and he was starting a brand new

adventure, as were we all.”

Chris Antonio (’85) boarded at Aquinas from 1984-85 and has since sent his five sons to board at the College over the past decade.

“Our eldest, Joshua, started boarding in 2010. There is always a high level of apprehension when dropping your child off at boarding school. It was a surreal feeling, knowing that our eldest was not going to be at home as much anymore,” Chris explains.

He says there have been too many highlights for himself and his wife Nicki to recount across the boys’ schooling and boarding at Aquinas.

“Seeing the boys in an environment of well-adjusted young men, taking on leadership roles, having the opportunity to travel and experience different cultures are just a few,” he says.

“I’ve made or re-established friendships with parents of the boys’ friends in boarding over the years, the redevelopment of the boarding houses was also a highlight, and that sense

of strong community which has been there through all of our sons’ boarding experiences.”

Chris says his boys have continued their connection to boarding, returning to work as duty masters.

Suzanne Woods says when her eldest son Reuben started boarding in 2006 it was the start of a 14-year period during which at least one, and at times two, Woods brothers were boarding at Aquinas.

“We already had a few years’ experience with boarding as our daughter commenced as a boarder at Santa Maria in 2004. It took some time to get used to having one less at home as each one started but mobile phones mean that keeping in touch is so much easier than it used to be,” Suzanne says.

She says watching her four sons develop friendships with boys from all over the state and get the opportunity to participate in many different activities were some of the many highlights she recalls from their boarding experiences.

“Our boys were always ok about going back to school and that was very rewarding, as we knew that the boarding house had become the next best thing to home and a place where they were happy and felt they belonged,” she says.

Chris says his youngest son Samuel’s

“We know that we will always be welcome to return but there certainly is a feeling that a chapter has ended. Catching up with parents of the boys’ friends won't be so frequent but I can see plane trips to distant places on the horizon!”

Since graduating the boys of the three families have kept busy. The Steber boys; Rory (’16) is just about to complete his

degree, Jerome (’17) is currently on university exchange in Saskatchawen, Canada continuing his chemistry studies and Isaac (’19) is driving a baler before commencing his studies in Agriculture at Curtin University this year.

So, as this chapter ends for these families, what is their advice to new boarding parents apprehensive about the unknown?

graduation was a bittersweet moment for the family.

“It is a strange feeling to have finally completed 20 years of our sons’ school education. However, the aim was to position the boys to be the best they could be in the future, which I believe we have contributed toward.”

Allie and her husband Matt had similar feelings toward their son Patrick’s graduation in 2019.

“When Rory began in 2011 it was the start of a new and exciting chapter. Our boys are all now embarking on new and exciting chapters, so it’s difficult not to feel excited about what the future may hold,” Allie says.

“When one chapter opens, another is left behind, of course, and the thought of not coming back to Aquinas is quite saddening. We feel though, that the friendships we have made will endure beyond Aquinas, and the experiences we, as a family, have shared in our time here will tie us to the Aquinas family forever,” she says.

Suzanne says Isaac’s graduation was poignant, signalling the end of her and husband Steve’s relationship with Aquinas as current parents.

third year of Mechanical Engineering at Curtin. His brother Tom (’16) has just completed a Bachelor of Agribusiness Management at Muresk Institute (with Charles Sturt University) and will undertake an internship with Warakirri in the Eastern States. Lachie is completing a Heavy Diesel Transport apprenticeship in the country, and Patrick (’19) has just completed WACE exams and hopes to follow in Rory’s footsteps and undertake a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

In the Antonio household; Joshua (’12) graduated with Honours in Chemistry and works in research and analysis of sunscreens, Cameron (’13) graduated in Marketing and Management and is working in digital marketing, Ben (’15) is having a gap period and breeding livestock for resale, Zachary (’17) had gap leave and is looking to start university study in 2020, and Samuel (’19) has received pre-admission to study Psychology at Curtin.

The Woods’ boys; Reuben (’10) is working on the family farm following the completion of his Heavy Duty Diesel Mechanic trade, Lindsay (’13) is working with an executive recruitment company in the city since completing his Commerce

Chris puts it quite simply; “be involved and take advantage (both parents and the boys) of every opportunity presented.”

“Know that Aquinas endeavours to make each boy the best he can be,” says Allie.

“It may not always happen in a way that you envisage or agree with, but go in with an open mind, trust the staff to know what they are doing and know that they have your son(s) best interests at heart,” she says.

“Keep the lines of communication open, between you, your boys and the College staff – don’t ever hesitate to ring someone if you feel something isn’t right with your son – someone will help.”

Suzanne recommends dropping in for dinner or attending Chapel whenever possible.

“This is when you get a real sense of the Aquinas boarding community in its entirety and we've always felt welcome and valued by the staff and students. In fact taking every opportunity to participate as parents whilst still giving your sons room to grow is the best way to fully appreciate the values of the Aquinas community,” she says.

Winter sports comp in the PSA

2019 Sports Prefect Finn Gorringe recaps the winter sport season for Aquinas, his final season wearing the red and black for his school.

The 2019 Aquinas Senior Cross Country team rounded off the season in a strong fashion. The boys completed their dominant, consistent performance, going through undefeated, including winning every All Schools race.

Captain of the team, Luke Klumpp lead the boys in an inspiring race, running on what was later found to be a broken fibula. Although he was unable to complete his final race, the pure dedication to will his body through this initial pain embodied the team’s commitment to attain their shared goal of winning the cup. The boys completed an outstanding season, and will go down as one of the most dominant Cross Country teams of all time.

First XVIII Football finished its season second on the ladder, unfortunately below the dominant Hale side. Although their goal to retain the Alcock was not met, the boys were happy to complete their season with a hard-fought win on Red Haze Day. The boys had the final laugh in the historic rivalry between Aquinas and Trinity, completing a fourgoal comeback after half time. The young boys in the side will be looking to learn from this season, all of them hungry to win back the Alcock in coming years.

First XI Soccer completed the season with a 3-0 win over Trinity. This welldeserved win helped the team place fourth on the ladder, one point behind Trinity in what was a tight season.

The boys were happy where they placed, with the Hale side proving to be too dominant in 2019. With plenty of young boys in the team, the boys are

looking to come back bigger than ever in 2020, pushing for strong title contention.

Badminton 1sts finished the season fifth on the ladder. In quite a tight season, the boys were able to perform in plenty of games, however, just lacked the consistency needed to come out on top. The boys had plenty of highlights, especially beating Hale 7-2 to hand them their only loss of the season, something which is not a small feat. There is plenty to look forward to in an exciting young

team, ready to push for the cup in the years to come, if not 2020.

First XI Hockey did not have their desired season in 2019. Although, finishing sixth on the ladder, their true capacity was often hidden throughout the season. Being on the receiving end of many unlucky goals and resulting games, it just wasn’t the year for the boys. With the boys beating Trinity on Red Haze Day, they finished their Aquinas career off on the right side, ending up only finishing one point behind both Wesley and Trinity.

First XV Rugby finished seventh on the ladder. The boys showed great persistence to continue to grow as a team, putting together a few performances which only lacked consistency. Although it wasn’t the ideal outcome for the season, all the boys enjoyed playing for the red and black, representing the College in their last year at the school.

Many thanks to the big crowd of supporters who turned out for the last day of winter sport in the Red Haze Day fixture against Trinity. It was a great way to round out the season, with some comprehensive results at 1st team level,

and across Friday and Saturday. Aquinas came out on top with 22 wins to 20, identical to the Term 2 fixture, to take out the CBC Perth Cup.

Congratulations to all boys on a great winter season. The chance to play for the red and black is not something to be taken lightly and I can comfortably say, everyone who represented the College will never forget it.

Term 4 points count in summer competition

Under the revised PSA sports program, Term 4 competition points count toward Term 1 2020 trophies.

Aquinas was sitting in equal top place in Basketball and Volleyball, and equal second in Water Polo and Cricket (at time of print). Tennis is rebuilding and players have shown some good improvements.

Rowers competed in two regattas this term. The Aquinas 1st VIII won the Brian Tonkin Trophy for the fastest 1st VIII crew at the Aquinas on Canning Regatta, and Aquinas team won the Nick Garratt Trophy as champion school on the day.

At the Guildford on Swan Regatta, Aquinas finished third in the 1st VIII race (0.2 seconds from second place), and was second place overall on regatta points, just two points behind Guildford.

Immersing in Philippines culture - 2019

It was a relatively quiet build up to the 10th Philippines Immersion this year, with no imminent threats of typhoons, earthquakes or flooding that usually occur in September.

After an overnight stop in Manila the five students and two staff in the Aquinas College Immersion group flew to Bacolod, Negros Occidental destined to meet their host families for the stay. Met by the Principal of Immaculate Conception Academy Niel Campilanos and transported to Dancalan (three hours further south), the group enjoyed an amazing welcome at the school and boys met their buddies who were to accompany them over the next nine days.

In Negros the group visited three different villages – the hill village of Lunoy, the fishing village of Bocana and the highly flood-prone village of Enclaro. Each village included a feeding program for very undernourished children, many of whom only had one meal per day which was usually at their respective school.

At Lunoy group members took part in farming activities and conducted fun activities for children. At Bocana an early start to plant mangroves at low-tide was followed by a visit to the elementary school to feed 150 children. At Enclaro, students wove nipa (river palm) into

roofing and wall panel slats and enjoyed some games with children.

Tour leader John Richards says an important aspect of every immersion is spending time with deaf and/or mute children from the Anawim Foundation.

“Aquinas College is a major supporter of this foundation, offering financial assistance for vocational and tertiary education as well as fundraising for daily expenses such as food, clothing and personal needs,” Mr Richards says.

“The boys are always amazed at the talents of these children and learned to American-Sign very quickly. A full day was spent at a picnic at the picturesque hill resort of Balicaocao followed by a dinner and concert at the Anawim home.”

Homestays and the buddy system see boys finding “new brothers” and a whole new family that adopts them as their own.

“Starting each day with their brothers, from rising early to the sounds of roosters and barking dogs, breakfast with rice and meeting their extended families and friends who make it a point to meet their new ‘Australian visitors’,” Mr Richards says.

“Nearly every night, the boys live in a totally different home environment to

their own. It is a humbling experience and one that makes this trip a true immersion. Despite their poverty and subsistence lifestyles, the Filipino families always treat their guests first – from serving their meals first to having the best room or bed in their house,” he says.

As one student wrote:

I believe that the immersion opened my eyes to a world outside of our own, in which there are people with so much less than us and enough reason for them to be unhappy with their situation. However, I saw the beautiful hearts of the Filipinos and how grateful and happy they are. Honestly, they are happier than all of us in Perth. It really gave me a fresh perspective on how privileged I am and how little I actually can complain about.

After Negros, the group spent four days in Manila which included a visit to the Hospicio de San Jose, home to those abandoned by family and community –including toddlers, severely disabled, the aged, and victims of domestic violence –all cared for by the Daughters of Charity and their volunteers.

The immersion group: Thomas Grier, Lucas Lee, Matthew Manno, Matthew Costa, Michael Hardie with teachers, John Richards and Bradley Nicholls.

Advocacy - students use their voices

Speakers’ Corner finds a place at Aquinas

Aquinas College students initiated a weekly Speakers’ Corner in 2019, giving students the chance to stand among their peers and speak out about injustices and other issues of relevance to teens today.

Director of Justice and Advocacy Richard Mavros says the Speakers’ Corner is an energetic and sparkling example of the wisdom and ideas of teenage men.

“The soapbox is open to any young man who will brave the stage to share their thoughts on some of society’s most well-known topics - and be willing to do this in front of their peers,” Mr Mavros says.

“So far the Thursday morning tea sessions have provided dynamic, fun and lively interactions, with challenging impromptu questions. At the same time we are creating a cultured and respectful discourse that showcases young men at their best – young men searching for bigger truths and not afraid to speak about them in public,” he says.

“All students are encouraged to choose a topic, step up and have their say.”

Modelling the United Nations

Aquinas students won two of the four top prizes at the PSA Model UN competition at UWA in September.

Seven schools entered 28 teams into the competition which saw students’ debate motions and negotiate declarations under the guidance of UN protocols. After four hours of debate and deliberation, Aquinas was acknowledged with the Best Team and Best Presentation awards.

Student Achievements

Congratulations to all of the students who excelled in their chosen field. Please email us via goodnews@aquinas.wa.edu.au if your son has gained an achievement of note which we can include in the next Fish or Aquinian news magazine:

WA State AFL Representation

Year 6 Isaak Wittkuhn (U/12s)

Year 6 Xavier Bianchini (U/12s train-on)

Year 7 Cale Scott ( U/12s train-on)

Year 10 Tom Hallett (U/15s)

Year 10 Jesse Motlop (U/16s) Year 11 Trent Giles (U/16s)

Year 12 Logan McDonald (U/18s)

Year 12 Trey Ruscoe (U/18s) Year 12 Jeremy Sharp (U/18s)

AFL Draft

Year 12 Trey Ruscoe - Collingwood

Year 12 Jeremy Sharp - Gold Coast Suns

WA State Cross Country

Year 10 Ethan Wyatt-Smith (16/17 years)

Year 8 Tom Millard (14/15 years)

Year 7 Caleb Di Toro (12 years - reserves)

WA U17 High Performance Hockey Academy

Year 11 Liam Talbot

WA State Hockey

Year 7 Liam Capes 12s Year 11 Trent Scaini 16s

FHE Cup International Hockey

Year 10 Rourke Palmer Year 10 Lucas Kamarudin Year 11 Trent Scaini

WA Little League Baseball Year 7 Luke Hodge

WA State Basketball

Year 7 Harper Raison (U/12s) Year 7 Riley Auret (U/12s)

School Sport National Swimming Championships

Year 8 Ben Russell (and Swimming WA Junior Swimmer of the Year nomination)

Year 7 Thomas Dreverman (Captain of the WA Junior Swim team)

State Volleyball Championships

Year 12 Honours - Silver Year 11A - Gold Year 10 Honours - Silver Year 10B - Gold Year 9 Honours -Silver Year 8 Honours - Gold Grand Final MVPs Year 9 Daniel Soudom Year 8 Jeremy Pilatti

WA State Volleyball

Year 10 Samuel Wilhelm (U/15s) Year 10 Declan Kilpatrick (U/15s)

National Cricket team

Year 12 Ewan Neilson (U/19s) - unable to play due to illness

2019 Canoe Sprint Olympic Hopes Regatta

Year 11 Luke Egger

Save the Date

AQUINAS COLLEGE Arts Plus Foundation Ball

Saturday 5th September 2020

Crown Perth

Standard Table of 10: $2,100

Corporate Table of 10: $5,000

Note: Special Crown accommodation rates will apply

For more information please contact Louise Symonds Aquinas College Foundation 9450 0799 foundation@aquinas.wa.edu.au

2020 Arts Plus Foundation Ball off and running!

The countdown is on for the highlyanticipated 2020 Arts Plus Aquinas College Foundation Ball. For the first time in its 10-year history, the Foundation’s signature event will be held off-campus at the Crown - one of Perth’s premier Ball destinations - on 5th September 2020.

With Diamond Road Band signing on again to provide the dance track for the evening, a surprise pre-dinner drinks double act, and an exciting main act collaboration between Aquinas College music staff and Freeze Frame Opera, this is a Ball not to be missed.

The ticket price for the 2020 Arts Plus Foundation Ball is $210, with all proceeds to benefit the Arts Plus Project, which includes the creation of a Performing Arts Centre to cater for the thriving Arts curriculum at Aquinas College.

We Need Your Help!

Once again, we are seeking support from organisations and individuals within the Aquinas community to enhance our fundraising efforts on the night. Major Sponsor rights are still available, providing an array of sponsorship benefits for the winning candidate, including naming rights for the event and publishing rights across all College media in the lead up to the Ball, at the venue on the night and throughout the evening.

We are excited to announce that Soklich & Co has signed on again to provide a stunning, bespoke jewellery piece for the Major Auction. We look forward to bringing you updates from Soklich & Co and other auction sponsors throughout 2020.

Sponsorship opportunities include:

• Major Sponsor of the 2020 Arts Plus Foundation Ball (Cost: $20,000)

• Corporate Tables (maximum of 10 available. Cost: $5,000)

• Major and/or Silent Auction and Raffle Items

For further information about sponsorship opportunities contact Louise Symonds in the Foundation Office on 9450 0799 or foundation@aquinas. wa.edu.au

Tickets for the 2020 Arts Plus Foundation Ball will be available for purchase at the beginning of the 2020 school year. To avoid disappointment, tables of ten can be reserved now by forwarding an email to Louise Symonds at foundation@aquinas.wa.edu.au

Foundation news

Commissioning of the Peer Scholarship Program plaques from the Classes of 2017 and 2018

On Friday 3rd May 2019, Headmaster David McFadden and the Foundation welcomed back to the College past Captains Jeremy Burke (’17) and Tim Bodlovich (’18) for the commissioning of the Peer Scholarship Program plaques for the Classes of 2017 and 2018.

Following in the inaugural footsteps of the Class of 2017, it is now College tradition for each leaving class to contribute the life-changing gift of a twoyear half-scholarship for a boy as their parting gift to the College. Students are asked to consider a contribution of $50 in their final year at the College, with a further contribution of $50 per year for the first two years out of school – that’s

around one dollar per week for three years.

With the completion of renovations to the Heritage Room, the plaques commemorating the gifts from the Classes of 2017 and 2018 now take pride of place on the north-facing wall of what is now known as the Year 12 Common Room, with plenty of space for future contributions.

Speaking at the ceremony, David McFadden thanked the boys for their support of the Peer Scholarship Program, a program that exemplifies the mission of our Founder, Edmund Rice - making a difference in the lives of boys from challenging financial positions.

Also present at the commissioning ceremony were Matthew Clarke, representing the Class of 2019, John Van Dyk (Head of Senior School), Bernard Major (Assistant to the Head of Senior School), Louise Symonds (Foundation Officer) and Nichole Rowson (Alumni and Events Administrator).

Contributions to the Class of 2019 Scholarship Gift can be made by visiting the Online Store and selecting “Peer Year Scholarships” from the drop down menu, or by contacting Louise Symonds at foundation@aquinas.wa.edu.au

Welcome back Class of 2018

The Class of 2018 returned to the College for the annual Aquinas College Foundation Leavers’ Breakfast in the Churack Pavilion in May. The boys enjoyed a delicious cooked breakfast and a chance to catch up with their peers, as they poured over their final College Annual.

Dean of Development Peter Robertson warmly welcomed the graduates back to Aquinas, emphasising the importance of the Annual Leavers’ Breakfast as a mechanism for the boys to reconnect with the College and their peers, so soon after graduation.

Peter congratulated the boys on their generous contribution to the College by way of the Class of 2018 Scholarship Gift, adding “…there is now a young man at Aquinas College who would not be here without your help”.

Old Aquinians’ Association President Matthew Noonan-Crowe (’99)also addressed the boys, encouraging them to join the OAA to take advantage of the wonderful social and networking opportunities available to them through membership.

For further information about the OAA and upcoming events, please visit the OAA’s Facebook page at https://www.

Foundation news

facebook.com/oldaquinians/ or contact Matthew at matthew@valentilawyers. com.au

2018 Foundation Ball Waterford Luncheon a huge success

On Friday 26th July, 11 Old Aquinians from the Class of 1977 enjoyed a sumptuous three-course luncheon in the Waterford Dining Room, courtesy of Brad (’77) and Lisa Sinclair who successfully bid for the luncheon at the 2018 Foundation Ball Silent Auction.

According to Brad, the group thoroughly enjoyed its afternoon at the College and was amazed at the “beyondrestaurant quality” served up by Steve Lewis and his staff.

“Everything was fabulous and I had a most enjoyable afternoon catching up with our ’77 group,” said Brad. “The meal was nothing short of amazing … a far cry from back in our Aquinas days. Everyone has contacted me since the lunch to say what a terrific day it was. It surpassed all of our expectations.”

“We all thoroughly enjoyed a very special day back at Aquinas and all felt so privileged to have attended such a wonderful school and to have such longstanding friendships from our time spent at Aquinas.”

Headmaster David McFadden, Dean of Development Peter Robertson and Head of Boarding Sean Henderson all dropped by to say hello. With 10 out of 11 of the group former boarders, Sean Henderson also took the group on a guided tour of the new boarding facilities.

“A big thank you to Nichole (Alumni and Events Administrator) for putting it all together - the Power Point and Annuals, matching the wines, taking photos on the day and organising a visit from the Headmaster: it set the mood for a good trip down memory lane for us all, ” said Brad.

A warm welcome for our new 2020 parents

On a very warm Friday in November, more than 250 new parents, College staff, Foundation Councillors and representatives from the Parents’ and Friends’ Association (P&F), the Parent Support Group (PSG) and the Ladies’ Auxiliary (LAX) gathered for the annual Aquinas College Foundation Welcome Parents’ Evening.

Guests and staff mingled beneath the pear trees in the delightful surrounds of the Chapel courtyard, enjoying canapés and drinks and getting to know each other.

The annual Welcome Parents’ Evening serves to reinforce the Aquinas tradition of welcoming new families to our wonderful community and inviting them to be a part of their son’s educational journey.

Foundation Chair Julian Lodge welcomed everyone on the night, outlining the role of the Foundation in assisting the College to secure a sound financial future, whilst P&F President Mat Scott detailed the roles of the various parent support groups available at the College.

Special thanks to Peter Robertson (Dean of Development), Nichole Rowson and Michelle O’Neill from the Development Office and Louise Symonds from the Foundation Office for organising this successful event, to the College staff who mingled with the parents throughout the evening and to members of the P&F, PSG and LAX for giving up their Friday night to serve the food and drinks.

Welcome to our new members of the Aquinas College family. We look forward to working with you as you journey through the College.

The College welcomes 1950s rowers

The spirit of Aquinas College Rowing was alive and well on Friday 21st June when a group of Old Aquinian rowers from the 1950s reunited for a special luncheon in the Waterford Room.

Head of Rowing and MC for the day, Nick Collins, kicked off the reunion with a bus ride down to the N.N. Wilson Boatshed. As well as taking a walk around the current Boatshed, the group keenly inspected the remains of their rowing shed – the original boatshed built in 1938 - now just a few pylons in the water and a heap of memories.

With just a touch of bias, they all agreed the 1938 boatshed, built in the traditional manner over the water, was the superior boatshed, despite spontaneously toppling into the Canning River in 1969, following the completion of the Br N.N. Wilson Boatshed.

Whilst at the river, Nick Collins took the opportunity to explain to the group why the College needs a new boatshed, citing the poor state of the current shed, the lack of amenities in the shed (toilets, showers, change rooms) and the desperate need for more space to cater for a robust rowing community: we have 180 boys involved in rowing in 2019 compared with 40 boys in 1969.

Nick went on to explain the design of the new shed, which will include storage space for racing shells, tender boats and maintenance, a meeting room and a weights and ergo room, adding that it would serve the College well for the next 50 years. The group was particularly impressed with the size of the new facility and the inclusion of a weights and ergo room.

Next stop was lunch in the Waterford Room, with the ever-present Canning River in the background. David McFadden opened proceedings by welcoming the group back to the College and thanking them for their contributions to the College and to rowing, whilst Steven Lewis and his team provided a sumptuous three-course meal.

Despite the passage of more than 60 years, College pride and comradery was more than evident amongst the group as stories of their Aquinas College rowing days were shared around the table with much vigour: the good times and the hard times; the early morning starts; the back breaking training sessions; and those magical moments when it all came together on the river.

Thank you to all our rowers from the 1950s who were able to attend the luncheon, along with our Boatshed Appeal Patron, Brian Tonkin – it was a

pleasure to have you back at the College. Thank you also to all of our rowers from the 1950s who have generously contributed to the Boatshed Renewal Appeal since its May launch. Your support will have a significant impact on our rowing endeavours.

Special thanks must go to Olympian and College legend Max Cunningham for coordinating the reunion. Armed with a list of names and some contact numbers, Max spent several days at the College tracking down a large number of rowers from the 1950s.

If you would like to support the Boatshed Renewal Appeal and receive a tax receipt, please visit our Online Store.

Ladies' Auxiliary celebrates July

The College Hall was transformed into a winter wonderland to celebrate this year’s Aquinas College Ladies’ Auxiliary July Morning Tea.

The atmosphere was amazing, with the College Hall a warm shelter from the pouring rain. Guests were greeted and seated by Year 9 students, the Jazz ensemble playing uplifting music as guests took their seats. Students also served guests and were in high demand to replenish plates with delicious food and warm beverages.

A captive audience quietened to hear the College’s talented Schola Choir perform four of its favourite pieces. Guest speaker Amanda Viviers followed their performance, with messages inspiring the audience to find itself in a constantly changing world, encouraging guests to dig deep and realise their identities that may have been lost in the changing cycles of life. She spoke about finding a balance and taking pause, recommending guests discover their creative ability and use this as a means to rest and recover from stress.

Fellow speaker Kelly Chisolm presented about her work in Rwanda and women supporting each other in community rather than competing with one another. The presentations were followed by an outstanding snippet from

the College production Disco Inferno. The entire audience was on its feet enjoying the YMCA and other favourites from the disco era.

Congratulations to the winners of the Major Raffle; 1st prize Christine Bacon, 2nd Michelle Latham, 3rd Virginia Bradshaw.

Amanda and Kelly stayed on to sign books, answer questions and sell merchandise to raise money for their charity FoxGlove, also donating 10 per cent of their sales back to Aquinas College.

Thanks to the Aquinas College community for the enormous number of donations that were used to create our beautiful hampers for the mini raffle. All monies raised from the mini raffle

will be donated to The Women Together Program and Aquinas Care. Thank you also to the volunteers who assisted in the lead up to and during the event, their contributions helped to make this major fundraiser another fantastic success.

Janine Stanley Ladies’ Auxiliary President

SLAX morning tea

Corks popped and champagne flowed in September as the Senior Ladies Auxiliary (SLAX) gathered in the Churack Pavilion to catch up with friends and chat about their time and LAX experiences at the College.

P&F happenings

Parents

and families celebrate 2019

Parents celebrated the lead up to the end of the 2019 school year with friends, old and new, at a number of cohort special events.

From parent dinners, to family sundowners and sports sessions for the boys, year group social coordinators helped parents celebrate the 2019 year together. With the assistance of part funding from the Aquinas College P&F, volunteer organisers offered parents of their cohort an opportunity to catch up

with old friends and meet new parents (and families) at these social events, helping to build the Aquinas community and celebrate the completion of the school year.

Thank you to the P&F and parent volunteer social event organisers for assisting with these events.

Dads, Lads and Wildcats!

Two players from the Wildcats joined a group of 20 boys and their dads in a basketball session to remember at a Fathering Project event at the College in October.

Thanks to the involvement of Wildcats sponsor P&N Bank, stars Rhys Vague and Majok Majok, joined the group in the early evening. While waiting for them to arrive we divided into two groups and began playing. On one court was mostly Year 6 boys versus their dads whilst the older boys took on their dads on the other court. The Year 6 boys were whipping their dads, but naturally the dads refused to acknowledge it.

It turned out these two 7ft tall giants had somehow managed to enter the College without being noticed and were waiting for the group in a different area. Once found, Rhys and Majok joined the play, one on each court.

Majok joined the Year 6 court first and the dads were quick to suggest that their sons needed his help. Funnily

enough the dads did seem to do better playing against Majok although he may not have been taking it too seriously. After a while the players swapped courts to mix with the other group.

Each player spoke briefly to the group about the importance of fathers. Rhys said that his dad was an amazing role model for him and encouraged him to pursue his dreams and do his best. He said that his dad’s help was invaluable in helping him to achieve his dream of being a professional sportsman.

Majok explained he had not known his father, who passed away when he was very young. So his message was that we should value our fathers and never take for granted the blessing of having a father or father figure in our lives.

The Aquinas Fathering Project is run as part of the Aquinas College Parents’ and Friends’ Association.

From the OAA President.....

AGM

The AGM was held on 23rd August 2019. It was an honour for me to be elected as President of the Association for a further term, along with Vice President - Alexander Anile (’13), Treasurer – Julian Gardner (’08) and Secretary – Anthony Meo (’16). Adrian Mitchell (‘98) resigned from his position as Committee Member and his service to the Association was acknowledged. The other Committee Members are Phillip Power (’85), Daryl Pranata (’97), Oliver Cox (’14), Phillip Colic (’16), Michael Flower (’07) and Jeremy Sivewright (’90). The AGM was well attended by members from a broad range of graduating year groups. This year the Association resolved to award an Honoured Life Membership of the Old Aquinians’ Association to Phillip Power (’85) for his exemplary contributions to the Association, as a Committee Member and past President of the Association.

Annual Dinner

Immediately following the AGM, the Annual Dinner was held in the spectacular Hughes’ Dinning Hall, and was once again the highlight of the Association’s calendar. More than 100 attendees enjoyed the evening, with predinner drinks and an exceptional meal prepared by the talented head chef at the College Steven Lewis and his team. The

special guest speaker for the evening was Br Brian Clery, interviewed by Jeremy Sivewright (’90). Br Clery, through his stories and personal anecdotes, gave the attendees an insight into his personal history, the history of the Christian Brothers in Australia, and the manner in which their vision and hard work has contributed to the society in which we live today. Then the whiteboard was wheeled out and Br Clery held the room completely spellbound with one of his most famous tales, the Victor Trumper Story. Special thanks to Br Brian Clery, Jeremy Sivewright (’90), Steven Lewis and his team, and Events Administrator Nichole Rowson for their efforts which resulted in a truly memorable evening.

Spring Sundowner

The Members’ Sundowner was held on 24th October 2019 at Mister Walker on the Mends St Jetty. It was well attended by more than 50 members of the Association from a wide range of year groups - from recent graduates through to a significant group of attendees from the Class of 1954! It is always such a fantastic experience to attend one of these events and witness the friendships and connections being formed and fostered between Old Aquinians, across different professions and generations.

Year 12 Graduation 2019

It was my pleasure to attend the Year 12 Graduation, and to address the graduates and welcome them to the Old Aquinians’ Association. Congratulations Class of 2019! We look forward to seeing you at our events this year!

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

Photo above

Right to left Matthew Noonan-Crowe, Alexander Anile, Jeremy Sivewright, Anthony Meo, Julian Gardner, Phillip Power and Michael Flower following the OAA Christmas Sundowner where Phillip Power was presented with his honorary Life Membership award.

alumni news

Regan Clarke (’18), Deven Robertson (’18) and Chad Warner (’18) played in the championship winning WA U/18 AFL team alongside Year 12 students Trey Ruscoe and Jeremy Sharp in July. Deven captained the side and won the Larke Medal, awarded to the best player of the National U/18 AFL Championship. He was named captain of the All Australian team. Teammate Jeremy was also named in the side, for the second year in a row.

Jarrod Cameron (’17) kicked four goals in his debut for the West Coast Eagles at the Western Derby in July.

Jason Carter (’17) debuted for the Fremantle Dockers in August, the first person from his hometown of Wyndham to play an AFL game – more than 3000km from home. His team celebrated

a 34-point win against top-placed side Geelong at Optus Stadium.

Nat Fyfe (’08) had a stellar year as Fremantle Dockers captain, winning the Brownlow Medal for the second time and named All Australian team captain. At club level, Nat was also awarded the Doig Medal (best and fairest player), his third in his career, and the Player’s Award – for the player who best displayed the values set by the group at the start of the season.

Carlton FC co-captain Patrick Cripps (’12) came third in the Brownlow Medal count, was awarded the AFL Players Association MVP and named in the All Australian side for 2019. He also made history at club level, winning his third John Nicholls Medal (the youngest Carlton player to achieve the accolade).

Elliott Yeo (’10) tallied the highest

number of Brownlow Medal votes for the West Coast Eagles at this year’s count. Elliot was also named in the All Australian side.

Liam Baker (’15) played in the Richmond Tigers premiership side in the 2019 AFL Grand Final. The Tigers won convincingly on the day, beating the GWS Giants 17.12.114 to 3.7.25

Four Aquinians were picked up in this year’s AFL Draft in November; pick 22 Deven Robertson (’18) to Brisbane, pick 27 Jeremy Sharp (’19) to Gold Coast Suns, pick 39 Chad Warner (’18) to Sydney and pick 55 Trey Ruscoe (’19) to Collingwood.

Nick Elphick (’16) and Damian Williams (’15) represented Australia in Water Polo at the World University Games in Italy in July.

alumni news

Electro.Aero engineer Joshua Cribb (’14) was part of the team which developed the world’s first electric hydrofoil jet ski in 2019 – the WaveFlyer.

Luke Perry (’12), Sam Walker (’12) and Olympian Luke Smith (’07) played in the Australian Helloworld Travel Volleyroos team in the Volleyball Nations League in June.

Welsh rugby player Jake Ball (’08) was named Man of the Match in his team’s World Cup win over Georgia in September.

Aran Zalewski (’08) was named Player of the Tournament as the Kookaburras claimed the inaugural FIH Pro League Championship in July. Adam Crane (’91) was also part of the winning team in his role as High Performance Manager. The championship saw the

Kookaburras claim the World Number 1 ranking.

Daniel Fan (’12) represented Australia at the Badminton World Championships in August and is working towards his goal to play in Tokyo at the 2020 Olympics.

Film director Grant Sputore (’01) celebrated the premiere of his film I Am Mother at the Sundance Film Festival in 2019. The festival receives about 14,000 applications from filmmakers across the globe each year, with just 112 premiere slots available. I Am Mother stars twotime Oscar winner Hilary Swank and Danish superstar Clara Rugaard. It is screening on Netflix now.

James McMahon (’81) received WA's highest honour, named Western Australian of the Year in June 2019.

Prof. Nick Klomp (’80) was appointed Vice Chancellor and President of CQ University in August 2018.

Reds Volleyball Club was named the Volleyball WA Club of the Year at the 2019 Volley Awards. The award recognises the club that has contributed most to the development and growth of the sport in the previous year. There were a number of Old Aquinians and Reds players who won awards on the night. Zak Dempsey (’18) was named Junior Coach of the Year; Year 11 Jackson Barnett was announced Most Valuable Player (Division 1) and Junior Referee of the Year; and Reds coach Michael Dempsey (’88) was the recipient of a Volleyball WA Life Membership, becoming the 25th life member of VWA.

alumni news

Dr Bernard Glasson (’61) has launched a cryptic crossword book for children, connecting parents, grandparents and kids as they unravel the puzzling clues. As part of a pre-release promotion, a copy of the book Cryptic Crosswords for Young Puzzlers will be donated to a not-for-profit organisation, for every order received. Contact Curtin FM to order a copy.

Prof. Ivan Kennedy AM (’56) was named a Member in the General Division of the Order of Australia in September for higher education in Agriculture.

Samuel Landro (’13) won the grand final champion of UWA Moot Court.

Jordan Andreotta (’03) won the People’s Choice Award in The Lester Prize art competition for his portrait of Iona Presentation College’s Sr Flora.

Pavan Kumar Hari (’15) teamed up with spoken word poet Sukhjit Kaur Khalsa in Fully Sikh which played at the State Theatre Company in October. Pavan’s musical creativity and improv skill attracted the attention of “oneperson show” performer Sukhjit and his eclectic music became an integral part of her show.

2009 classmates catch up on the bowling green

Class of 2009's 10-year Reunion event was held on the 19th October, with an afternoon spent at the Mosman Park bowls club catching up on old times. The reunion was well attended with some 60 boys from the class of 2009 joining in on the occasion. Ian McIntyre ('09) was the guest speaker for the day, giving the group an insight into the really interesting work he and his company are doing in the human brain space, through

a startup that uses frontier technology to achieve an increase in brain performance.

The feedback from the event was really positive and I think the boys are already looking forward to the next catch up (we won't leave it 10 years for next time).

By Jacob Morgan-George (’09)

Class of 2009 won five trophies out of 14 sports which was a magnificent effort - Athletics, Basketball, Football, Soccer and Tennis.

Class of 1979 reunites

Like a fine Cabernet Sauvignon which matures delicately with sustenance and age, the reunion of 32 class of ’79ers was imbibed with a celebration of genuine mateship forged over 40 years.

Stories of wonderous adventures had, fortunes made and lost, love requited and for some passions ignited, all punctuated with unpretentious laughter and joy, for as this bonded assemblage reacquainted themselves, time felt as it had been suspended indefinitely.

Corralling all for the much anticipated group photo was surprisingly uncomplicated, all acknowledging its significance in capturing uninhibited mateship which undoubtedly will continue for future celebrations to be had.

As the night closed out and we were ushered from our temporary watering hole nestled close to the majestic Swan River, with the iconic Perth Stadium and Matagarup Bridge illuminating our way, one ponders what the approaching years will hold for all, our collective and individual journeys will unquestionably

be strengthened by the reignited kinship and all that it promises.

By Maurice Sauzier (’79)

Senior Old Boys Day

Friendships were renewed and memories rekindled when more than 100 old boys and their wives and partners accepted the College's invitation to attend the annual Senior Old Boys Day on 9th September.

The day started with morning tea, and then memories of past triumphs at the Interschool Sports at the WACA Ground came flooding back at a special assembly to meet members of the College's 2019 Inters team - a much bigger squad than under coach Geoff Worner's expert care in the 1950s.

We were reminded of the College's success in winning the Inters' Alcock Shield - 55 wins in 110 years!

Fr Greg Donovan (‘66) then celebrated Mass in the beautifully refurbished College Chapel. And in a thoughtful homily he touched on the risks for those who believed they were perfect, and noted the strength of those in authority who were prepared to show mercy rather than dispense punishment.

The Ladies’ Auxiliary was a generous host at lunch in the Hughes’ Dining Hall with marvellous views over the Canning

River. A number of guests shared their memories of their time at the college. They included Ted Brindal (‘48), Bob Kestel (‘52) and Don Golding (‘53).

Eddie Rigg (‘57) told of how he gashed his leg while practising the new "western roll" high jump style, and had been carried several hundred yards to the infirmary by Horace Panizza (‘55) while bleeding profusely, and John McCormack (‘58) suggested the reason he had made the 1st XI Cricket team while in First Year in 1954 was for his fielding. John made 11 centuries in Country Week cricket.

Michael Evans (‘67) attended for the first time with wife June. He was the driver for his parents Jack (‘39) and Kate. Jack was the "father" of the function, on the eve of turning 97.

It was a grand occasion. Thanks to the college, and especially Dean of Development Peter Robertson, and Alumni and Events Administrator Nichole Rowson, for organising this popular event.

By Peter Kennedy (’59)

Senior Old Boys celebrate in Bunbury

Of course it was a special day on Thursday 15th August. Rain on the Wednesday, rain on the Friday but sunshine for Thursday. An appropriate welcome to Bevan Knott, from his class mates of 1955.

From our experience at the inaugural lunch last year we decided to expand the luncheon to include 1954 along with any Aquinians who had some connection with these years who were willing to come to make the day more enjoyable.

Max Cunningham (‘54) obliged and with his contacts Jack Bana (’54) and Ian Ralph (’54) from Perth came along to fill the Aquinas bus and bring together fellow students living in the South West area namely Mort Kuhlmann (’54), Peter O'Shaughnessy (’54) and a very much younger Michael Doyle (‘85).

What a great lunch. Seafood buffet by the Aristos Restaurant at Bunbury overlooking the harbour waters and all 15 guys enjoying food, conversations and drinks. The most satisfying scene was to see the fellowship between some guys who hadn't seen each other for some 60 years. Just enormous and to some extent emotional.

Progressing from this we have decided to expand the programme next year to include more fellow ex-students from

associated years of 1954, 1955 and 1956. We feel by doing this those meeting will know each other, which is what we experienced this year and so the day became a more enjoyable occasion. This also gives those living in the South West an opportunity to do a one-day trip without an overnight cost.

Thanks must also be given to Headmaster of Aquinas College David McFadden who voluntarily gave us the use of the bus if costs were covered and this was achieved by Debbi Panizza (daughter of Horace) who volunteered to drive the bus.

By Fred Pawle (’55)

obituaries

Jim Deslandes (’47) passed away 20th June 2019.

Carlos Furtado (’56) passed away 24th June 2019.

Peter Becker (’72) passed away 5th July 2019.

Anthony Grinceri (’69) passed away 30th October 2019.

Graham Golding (’50) passed away 30th October 2019.

Howard Herne (’72) passed away 21st November 2019.

David James Kennedy (’77) passed away in April 2019. David lived in Manning but originally resided in Bullcreek with his parents and family. He passed away peacefully following a very short illness.

James Charles Hardisty (’35) passed away in June 2019, he was CBC Perth’s oldest living old boy aged 102 years.

Brian Mitra (’05)

30th

laughed through stories and anecdotes, photographs, videos, and live music that celebrated Old Aquinian Brian Nikhil Mitra’s short, but full and well lived life. Brian was an enthusiastic student of music at Aquinas, becoming a highly competent bassist and valued member of combined Aquinas and Santa Maria contemporary band Santinas, as well as studying Audio Engineering in Year 11 and 12.

Brian’s passion for music and recording led naturally to him pursuing this arena as a career and to establish Fremantle Recording Studios in 2010 with the help of family members. There he earned high praise from those he worked with as well as created an important hub of support and connection for many musicians, including friends from Aquinas, and he clearly enjoyed using his talents in the service of others. Indeed, it became apparent during the service that his strong values of honesty, kindness, caring, and working with love defined who he was with many speakers recounting their own memories of how Brian looked out for people, never had a bad word to say about anyone, and believed whole-heartedly that “only good can come from goodness,” – a beautiful and impressive way to be remembered for one so young.

Brian’s death was a tragic accident where, following a bout of sickness, he collapsed and a resultant head injury led to a quiet passing in his sleep. Homage has been paid to Brian by many in the music industry and his influence, friendship, and impact as a man for others will be sorely missed.

(’65)

Old Aquinian and four-time Olympic Rowing coach Nicholas (Nick) Garratt AM (’65) passed away suddenly on 8th July as he prepared the U23 Australian Rowing team for the World Rowing Championships in the US.

Nick’s sudden passing was felt across all levels of Australian rowing, with Rowing Australia President Rob Scott describing Nick as “… a passionate rowing coach who worked tirelessly to develop and support Australian rowers from grassroots to Olympic level. He was a greatly loved and admired member of our rowing family and we are all feeling this profound loss.”

Australian Olympic Committee chair John Coates said Nick’s dedication to Australian rowing and Olympic competition spanned many decades.

“At Olympic level, at national level and at club level, there are many hundreds of rowers, young and mature, who are in his debt as a coach and mentor,” Mr Coates told Rowing Australia.

Nick graduated from Aquinas College in 1965. He was a prefect and crew

March 1988 – 19th November 2018. On 27th November 2018 at Fremantle Cemetery, a standing room only congregation wept and

Nicholas Garratt AM

obituaries

member of the 1st VIII in his final year at school. From the boatsheds of Aquinas and the Swan River Rowing Club (where he was Champion in the Senior VIIIs and a lifelong member since 1965) he continued his rowing accolades, including stroking for the WA King’s Cup crew three years in a row, before turning his hand to coaching.

Nick’s Olympic coaching career included four successive games, beginning with Sydney in 2000. He coached six world champions or medalists (Junior, U23 and Senior A) from 1995 onwards and coached more than 26 Australian champions.

His career was highlighted by many achievements, including his appointment as a Member in the General Division of the Order of Australia in 2016 and being named 2018 Pathway Coach of the Year. He was current Head Coach of the ACT Academy of Sport.

Saverio (Sam) Domenico Marafioti (’65)

Passed away on 4th April 2019 at Rockingham General Hospital following an illness, aged 73 years. Sam was survived by his wife Livia, son Giuseppe, daughter-in-law Sarah, stepchildren Ara, Luis and Donny, and grandchildren Jayden and Joshua. His funeral mass was celebrated by Archbishop Hickey in the Chapel of St Thomas Aquinas.

Brian Aubrey Burt (’55)

in Dental Public Health at the University of Michigan and went on to study at the National Institute of Health in Washington DC. He and his wife Lizzie moved to London for seven years where he worked at the London Hospital in Whitechapel, completed his doctorate and where their two sons Ashley and Matthew were born. He moved back to the University of Michigan as assistant professor of the School of Dental Public Health, and shortly after became professor. He held many senior positions in the public health arena before retiring in 2005 as Professor Emeritus. Brian is renowned for three editions of “Burt’s Book” that is obligatory reading for anyone pursuing dental public health. He was an expert in his field, but was also known for his wholehearted mentoring of current and former students.

When diagnosed with high cholesterol and a risk of heart disease he and his wife changed their diets and designed a rigorous exercise regime. Short runs around the block morphed into short road races and eventually marathons. Brian competed in seven Boston marathons. The couple also competed in triathlons and Ironman contests in Hawaii and Perth.

Brian lived with Parkinson ’s disease since 2009. His passing on 9th September 2019 prompted a stream of testimonials from American and international friends, colleagues, and former students, many of whom he mentored through their invariably prestigious careers. He inspired his students to achieve beyond their wildest expectations both in the classroom and on the running track. The Dean of the College of Dentistry at the University of Florida, Isabel Garcia said: “Brian leaves a tremendous legacy as an outstanding researcher, teacher, mentor and much more”.

Leonard Anderson (’55)

Ian attended Aquinas from 1966 to 1970 and was a 1970 College Prefect.

During his time at Aquinas Ian participated in many aspects of college life including Alliance Francaise, the Maths Society, was a YCS president, member of the Veritas Society, an under officer in the College Cadets, a member of the 1970 Debating competition and was involved in college drama over several years with appearances in The Little Man, Reunion, West Side Story and Antigone in 1970 for which he shared the top actor award.

In the sporting arena Ian played Rugby and was the stroke of the 1970 2nd IV Head of the River crew and was a member of the Rowing Committee.

Ian knew how to live life to the full after leaving Aquinas. As a young adult, he set himself challenges in several different careers.

Brian came to Aquinas when his family moved to Perth in 1946. He won a state bursary to study dentistry at UWA and on graduating practised in Mt Magnet.

Brian completed a Master’s program

passed away peacefully on Sunday 8th September 2019 at Peter Arney Nursing Home, surrounded by his family. Much loved husband of Fay of 59 years, adored father of Peta, Dean (dec) and Dwayne. Father-in-law of Stephen and Leanne. Best Pop ever of Bronte and Kane.

His first career after leaving school was as a clerical officer in an insurance company. From this involvement in the insurance industry, he decided to become an insurance and superannuation consultant. During the next 20 years, he remained in the industry taking on various roles, such as office administrator, manager of sales teams and General Manager of an Insurance Company. During these busy years, he and his then wife Mary, raised their family of two daughters Melanie and Rebecca.

Ian also became an active member of his local community by joining the service club Apex, where time and skills are donated to community projects such as building school playground

Ian Glyn John Firns (’70)

obituaries

equipment, helping people in need and fundraising. In 1993 Ian received a Life Membership for his contributions to Apex.

Ian had a highly incisive mind and always read widely. His intelligence was tested when, in 1993 he decided to begin university studies as a mature student at Curtin University. He passed the Masters of Business Administration degree with a distinction in 1996. This gave Ian an opportunity to become an academic at Curtin and lecturer for several universities in Business and Administration in the area of Organisational Behaviour. Ian also represented the Curtin Alumni as manager for some time after graduating. He enjoyed teaching tertiary students and he had a talent of making his lectures meaningful as well as entertaining. Ian’s sense of fair play was tested when he failed some university students for plagiarism and this led to an ICAC (NSW) investigation into corruption with Ian’s complaint being upheld by the Commission.

This entry into the area of academia gave Ian an idea that he had always longed for, and that was to study Law and he was accepted by UWA in 2002. He subsequently gained his Law degree with distinction.

Ian saw an opportunity where he could use his expertise and knowledge in both law and business when he joined a chemical company which had projects in several countries. He took up the position of director in this company which lead to him being based mainly in Ghana, Malaysia and the Dominican Republic.

Unfortunately, while living in Ghana, he suffered from contracting malaria several times. This lead to his serious illness and eventual death at the age of 64.

Ian made friends easily wherever he went. He was always enthusiastic and positive about life, dreaming big dreams and imagining amazing ways to reach them.

By Mary Firns and Geoffrey White

Judy Vasile was born in Yarraville Victoria on 15th November 1945 and moved to Perth in 1947.

Judy had a long association with Aquinas starting out as a proud mum to Shane (’87) and Mark (’89).

In 1981 Judy took up a voluntary position at the Aquinas Uniform Shop. In 1984, she soon took over the management of the shop and worked there for 30 years until her retirement in 2014. In her time at Aquinas, Judy dressed over 1000 students including Shane and Mark.

After her retirement, Judy still kept her hand in at the school by doing alterations for the Uniform Shop. She was a wiz at fixing torn blazers and making garters for the boys’ socks. She also made small coloured pillows for Kindergarten kids to use when they had their rest time.

In 2009 Judy was diagnosed with cancer. She stoically went through surgery, chemo and radiotherapy and won the fight. It was at this time she experienced the support of Solaris Care and as someone who always gave back, she began volunteering with them when she was well enough to do so. While volunteering with Solaris Care every week, she also continued her affiliation with the Uniform Shop. Many of the Uniform Shop staff and volunteers became lifelong friends whose friendship Judy valued enormously.

Sadly in 2017 Judy’s cancer returned

and while she fought hard, she lost her battle in July 2019.

Judy leaves behind a legacy of her two sons, Shane and Mark, five granddaughters who she adored and many friends made during her time at Aquinas

Judy was a strong woman with a huge heart who always gave so much love and care to others.

William (Bill) Woodruff

Former Aquinas College Headmaster William (Bill) Woodruff passed away on 3rd May 2019. Below is an edited version of his Eulogy as read by Max McAppion.

Bill was just a month short of his 94th birthday when he died. He enjoyed all sport, but cricket was probably his favourite, so it may have been a point of regret that his innings ended in the nervous nineties. But what an innings, and what a contribution he has made to the lives of so many men throughout Australia.

Yes, Bill loved sport, but his special loves were for his family, the Christian Brothers, and for Gwen, his wife of 32 years.

Bill’s parents were Michael and Catherine Woodruff, and Bill, the ninth born of 11 children, was born on 3rd June 1925, and grew up in Port Melbourne where his father had a dairy.

Bill completed his matriculation year in 1941, with double first class honours

Judy Vasile

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in Maths and third class honours in English, Latin and Physics. Bill then decided that he wanted to be a Christian Brother, and in January 1942, against his father’s advice and better judgement, went to the Brothers’ Training College in Sydney.

After a very brief period of training, and not quite 18, in 1943 Bill was appointed to Waverley College in NSW. When the war in the Pacific ended, Bill was able to enrol at the University of Sydney, but there was no time out of school for study and Bill taught school all day, coached sport after school, did his share of dormitory and study supervision and travelled by tram from Waverley to Sydney University.

Bill professed his final vows on Christmas Day 1950, and was then allowed to spend two weeks with his family. He was 25 and it was his first visit since he left home at 16.

Bill completed his BA majoring in Mathematics in 1954 and the following year was transferred to Goulburn –another boarding school. Bill spent five years at Goulburn then decided to apply for a return to his home state of Victoria, and was appointed to St Joseph’s College Geelong. By 1962, Bill had spent 20 years in boarding schools, but that year, instead of the customary and much needed four weeks of relaxation at

Apollo Bay with the other brothers in his community, Bill was asked to do a 30-day retreat. It was not his choice, but he did it. Perhaps the retreat prepared him for what was to follow, and Bill recorded the details in his Memories of Aquinas. “Towards the end of the retreat, on a Wednesday evening, I received a phone call and was told that I had been appointed Principal of Aquinas College in Perth, and I was asked if I could be ready to catch a train on Friday, fortunately, I was also given an option of flying on the following Monday.”

It was a good time to be at Aquinas; from 1963-68 there were three subject exhibitions, eight general exhibition and seven students gained distinctions in all seven leaving subjects. In these years activities such as cadets, science, drama clubs and religious solidarities flourished, and, perhaps the most noteworthy of these, the Abrolhos expeditions. There was also success on the sporting field.

At the time there were eight PSA sports and Aquinas had success in all but one of these with a total of 17 premierships with multiple successes in Cricket, Athletics, Football and Head of the River.

There was also a massive building programme in the ‘60s. Br Hall had started things with the building of the new science wing and senior classrooms in 1962 and commenced the building

of the Junior School. Bill’s first building project was the Chapel which was completed in 1966. The next project was the completion of the front of the main building which had stood unfinished since 1938. The biology wing was completed in 1968 and in the same year the drive and entrance to the College were transformed.

In 1967 Bill was appointed to the leadership team of the newly formed Holy Spirit Province that included schools and communities of WA and SA. He was appointed Province leader in 1972 which he held for six years. After a year of sabbatical study in America and a short stay at St Pat’s in Geraldton, Bill was called to Rome and was a member of the brothers’ world-wide leadership team for five years.

Not long after his return to Australia, Bill was appointed foundation principal at Prendiville College, it was also about this time Bill withdrew from the Christian Brothers and married Gwen.

When he finished at Prendiville Bill was well over retirement age, but this did not signal an end to work. Bill and Gwen spent several years as volunteers for the Como St Vincent de Paul Society.

Following a few health setbacks in 2018, Bill passed away on 3rd May 2019.

Old Aquinians’ Calendar of Events

1950s Bus Tour BBQ

22 January 2020

1950s Reunion

13 February 2020

OAA Business Breakfast 28 February 2020

Beverley and Districts Combined Public Schools Old Boys’ Association Dinner

3rd April 2020

1960 Reunion 17 March 2020

Class of 2019 Leavers' Breakfast

27 May 2020

OAA Annual Dinner 21 August 2020

2020 Arts Plus Foundation Ball 5 September 2020

Senior Old Boys' Day 7 September 2020 1995 Reunion Saturday 19th September

Past College Captains' Day 27 October 2020

1970, 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010 Reunions – TBC details will be published when confirmed.

If you have any queries regarding these events, need to update your details, or have a reunion year coming up, please contact Nichole Rowson in the Development Office at Aquinas on 9450 0660 or events@aquinas.wa.edu.au.