Issuu

the magazine of Aquinas College

TERM 2 / JUNE 2022

FISH 2022 Term 2 / June 2022

CONTENT 11

22 Published by: Aquinas College 58 Mt Henry Road Salter Point Western Australia fish@aquinas.wa.edu.au Editor Kate Spencer kate.spencer@aquinas.wa.edu.au Communications Coordinator Sheree Kendall sheree.kendall@aquinas.wa.edu.au Events events@aquinas.wa.edu.au Alumni oaa@aquinas.wa.edu.au

Copyright notice This material has been reproduced and communicated to you by or on behalf of Aquinas College pursuant to Part IVA Division 4 of the Copyright Act 1968 (the Act). The material in this communication may be subject to copyright under the Act. Any further reproduction or communication of this material by you may be the subject of copyright protection under the Act. Inside photography:Total Sports Photography, Aquinas staff & students, various donated submissions.

Preparing the Workforce of the Future

Proposed Capital Development for the College

New Principal on the Cards

Learning Through Challenge

STEM: Something for Every Student

Creativity During COVID

Boarding in Extraordinary Times

The Growth Mindset Journey

Spotlight on Advanced Science

Old Aquinians Canine Connection

I Am Because We Are

Schola Cantorum: 2021 In Reflection

Summer Sport Update

Foundation Update

Pars

2022 Calendar

OAA College Cup

Reunions

Condolences

Cover Image: L-R: Senior Constable Rohan Gamble (’94) & PD Razor, First Class Constable Nick Sardinha (‘10) & PD Boogie, Senior Constable Francis Wigger (‘03) & PD Digga Photographer: Sheree Kendall

38 Fish

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

4 – FISH

PREPARING A WORKFORCE OF THE FUTURE David McFadden Principal

The College has announced an exciting

has occurred in the workplace.

established as are numerous links with

new capital development program

Technological changes have enabled

TAFE and vocational providers both on

which it hopes to commence in 2023.

significant developments in automation,

and off campus. The Friday Aquinas

It will involve the creation of a new Arts

globalisation and communication which

MyFuture Program provides a regular

Community entrance, encompassing four

are impacting on how our children will

means for these links as well as the

new buildings. But what is behind this

work in their future. What they do, where

opportunity for students to travel off site

development and what does it mean for

they do it and how they do it, are causing

into white and blue collar workplaces.

the future of the College?

governments to rethink how they should

Technology has made these initiatives

1993 was the year Whitney Houston

prepare your son(s) for tomorrow.

possible with the College adopting a

sang ‘I will always love you’; Paul Keating

Numerous reports from OECD and World

Blended Learning Program which is well

defeated Bob Hawke, Jim Courier and

Economic Forum and The Foundation for

established at universities.

Monica Seles were the Australian Open

Young Australians, highlight the need for

A new school curriculum focusing on

Champions and Essendon won the grand

change in schools to ensure students are

skills and character. Numerous reports

final by 44 points over Carlton.

better prepared for the future landscape.

have identified that senior secondary

All these events however are

In particular two key recommendations

graduates will need a broader and

overshadowed by what occurred on April

are stressed:

different mix of skills and well established

30th that year. It was the day the World

A need to change how schools are

character strengths compared to previous

Wide Web was launched on the public

organized. As diagram 1 indicates,

generations (diagram 2).

domain and so the internet started to

schools need to adopt an extended

They will be required to navigate an

change our world forever. The past thirty

notion of a learning day and see learning

increasingly complex range of options

years has seen all dimensions of our

integrating further with the community

and pathways into further education,

lives change. Today the way we shop,

so enabling learning in partnership with

training and employment.

communicate and even date have been

others.

The Foundation for Young Australians

transformed by the introduction of the

Aquinas College is to become further

(FYA, 2018) significant longitudinal

internet.

integrated with the Perth community.

research which followed 14,000 young

Perhaps the greatest change however

Links with three universities are being

Australians aged 15 to 25 over ten years

5 – magazine of Aquinas College

Diagram 1

reveals many barriers in young people’s

Performing Arts, central in providing

transition from school to full time work

21st Century skills. The university centre

(see diagram 3 over page). The research

at the College will see an integration of

indicated that young people who can

universities with Aquinas assisting in staff

build transferable enterprise skills, such

development and enabling students to

as problem-solving, communication and

achieve a seamless early transition into

teamwork through formal education can

university.

accelerate their transition to full-time

Yet it is in establishing

work.

the Aquinas Club that

The establishment in 2019 of our

the greatest impact will

Character Education curriculum with

be seen, for it is always

its Veritas lessons, Odyssey Challenge,

through gathering

Leadership Programs and Student

community together

Councils are a direct response to the

that boys are best

above challenges. The creation of these

formed. As the African

new capital development programs

proverb stresses “It

will further enable the College to meet

takes a village to raise

these challenges by expanding in the

a child” .

Diagram 2

View the proposed capital development program on pages 6,7 & 8

6 – FISH

Diagram 3

SNAPSHOT This report followed 14,000 young people’s journey over a decade (15 to 25 years old) and found...

At 25 years-old

50%

Full-time education

The New Work Reality

Young people are better educated than in the past with almost 60% of 25 year-olds holding a post-school qualiﬁcation.

Full-time work Full-time work is increasingly precarious and diﬃcult to attain.

are not working full-time* 57%

55% 50%

2006

2011

Barriers young people identified to full-time work

1 full-time job

Accelerating factors to gaining full-time work

Multiple jobs

2016

*Note: Working full-time is deﬁned by the Australian Bureau of Statistics as working 35+ hours per week.

Not enough work experience

Lack of appropriate education

Lack of career management skills

Not enough jobs

Casual full-time employment

Building enterprise skills in education 17 months faster Relevant paid employment 12 months faster Paid employment in future focussed clusters 5 months faster An optimistic mindset** 2 months faster The Carers

**Note: Respondents were asked at 18 years-old whether they were happy with their career prospects at 18.

Foundation for Young Australians | The New Work Reality

The Informers

The Technologists

Source: Census table builder (2006, 2011, 2016), AlphaBeta analysis. LSAY 2006 cohort, AlphaBeta analysis. Australian Bureau of Statistics (1992-2013), Australian Labour Market, cat. No. 6105.0. Australian Bureau of Statistics (1978-2018), Labour Force, cat. no. 6202.0. Foundation for Young Australians (2016), “The New Work Mindset”.

FYA.ORG.AU

Proposed Capital Development Program Master Plan The College has recently completed a

•

new Capital Master Plan, developed by

New student pathway to ease

with the first phase of development

movement across the College

involving the creation of an Arts and

New student canteen

Community zone (shaded yellow in the

the CHRISTOU Design Group. The plan

•

will see a number of significant changes

In recent years, Aquinas College has

diagram below). This development will

to our large campus including the

embarked on a mission to build on

be facilitated first by moving the tennis

establishment of:

its perception as a school of sporting

courts onto the Kennedy Oval.

•

A new Arts and Community zone

excellence and become more widely

creating a new entry to the College

regarded as a school which excels in

New science and innovation

Faith, Character and Excellence. A school

facilities

of holistic perspective to education,

Refurbishment of existing building

valuing academic, arts and sport equally.

stock

The Plan commences at the end of 2022,

• •

7 – magazine of Aquinas College

2022-24 The first phase of the Master Plan is a

Kennedy Oval, adjacent to the existing

•

Recital Hall

complete transformation of the northern

hockey field. The new courts will have

•

Music School

entry into the College. This includes the

an astro-turf surface to reduce water

•

Aquinas Club

reconfiguration of existing car parking

usage and accommodating dual purpose,

•

University Centre

and adjacent separate drop off areas for

hockey in winter and tennis in summer.

The new Music School, Recital Hall and

Junior and Senior schools. It will include

The removal of the existing tennis courts

associated Aquinas Club and University

removal of the existing vehicle ramp to

will provide space for a reconfiguration

Centre, will help meet the challenges

create a more open and expansive sense

and development of the northern entry

facing the future of schools and

of arrival to the College.

into the College, which will incorporate

provide wonderful opportunities in the

Tennis will now be accommodated

the four new facilities that are to be

forthcoming years for both the College

through the construction of new multi

constructed:

and the wider community.

surface playing surface under lights on

Northern Elevation - Music School & University Centre

Aquinas Club

Recital Hall (Foreground) & Music School (Background)

Recital Hall Entrance

Proposed Capital Development 2022-24

8 – FISH

9 – magazine of Aquinas College

10 – FISH

A message

FROM THE COLLEGE ADVISORY COUNCIL Jonathan Murray

Chair - Aquinas College Advisory Council

A NEW PRINCIPAL ON THE CARDS FOR THE COLLEGE David McFadden has advised of his

As part of the initiation of the process

The Advisory Council looks forward to

family’s intention to return to Ireland at the

and in addition to the involvement of

playing an active and supporting role in

end of the year. Importantly for Aquinas,

the Advisory Council and the College

the appointment process. The collective

David has provided advance notice and

Leadership Team, consultation and

aim being for a successful conclusion

will continue to serve as Principal until

engagement has commenced with the

resulting in the appointment of an

the end of Term 3. We will have the

broader Aquinas Community.

outstanding candidate to lead Aquinas

opportunity to celebrate, in various ways,

A formal interview process for a shortlist

College forward with drive, passion,

David’s significant contributions and

of candidates is scheduled for July 2022.

mission focus and genuine care for our

achievements before the end of Term 3.

A Panel comprising representatives

students, staff and other stakeholders.

I would like to take this opportunity to

of EREA, a Principal of another EREA

The new Principal will play a pivotal role in

provide an outline of the process to

College and two current Aquinas College

leading the direction of Aquinas College

appoint a new Principal of Aquinas - for

Advisory Council members will oversee

and its focus on preparing young men

the commencement of 2023.

the interview and selection process.

for the future in an environment of global

The position has been advertised and

At this stage, we anticipate an

transformational change.

a call for applications to be submitted

announcement regarding the new

We look forward to identifying and

by interested parties is underway. The

Principal appointment will be made before

appointing an exceptional Principal who

request for expressions of interest will be

the end of Term 3 which will allow for the

will lead the new chapter for Aquinas

promoted domestically and also extended

necessary on-boarding and community

College in 2023 and well beyond.

to international professional networks.

integration to occur in Term 4.

Farewell to Marise Barrett after 29 years of service Marise Barrett commenced her time

and buildings, changed our operations

career. She will be sorely missed by all—

at Aquinas College in May, 1993. Her

and staffing significantly, and expanded in

especially her fellow co-workers in the

first role was as Assistant Bursar in the

many other ways.

Edmund Rice Building.

Finance Department. She quickly secured

CBC Fremantle are extremely lucky to be

her place and became Finance Manager

gaining a loyal and hardworking colleague

and then Director of Finance for the

as well as an expert in her field. Marise’s

College.

dedication to the College both personally

Five Headmasters have come and gone

and professionally have been unending

and Marise has seen a lot of change in

and we wish her the best of luck as she

that time—we’ve revamped our grounds

moves on to this next chapter in her

11 – magazine of Aquinas College

LEARNING THROUGH CHALLENGE Academic Scholars Program Megan Monks

Director of Academic Scholars

The Aquinas College Academic Scholars

Students are the driving inspiration behind

Whenever possible the boys are also

Program (ASP) aims to develop:

the ASP. They provide suggestions for the

taken off-site, or experiences brought

•

critical thinking;

units undertaken and the range of units

onsite to extend their knowledge in their

•

curiosity;

is constantly evolving to suit the interests

chosen unit. A prime example of this is

•

independence of thought;

and needs of the group.

the relationship we have developed with

•

articulacy and enthusiasm;

Experts deliver the programme to

Escape Hunt in Fremantle who instruct

•

different ways of thinking; and

ensure that students are provided with

us on designing a successful Escape

•

to explore connections between

adequate challenge and to optimise their

Room. Boys also enjoy the yearly visit

different fields of study.

learning, experts are sought to teach units

from Richard at Astronomy Education

Edmund Rice believed it was essential to

whenever possible. They are sourced

Services, who hosts both a day and night

‘challenge those who succeed with the

from:

sky viewing with four large telescopes.

maintenance of the status quo, to liberate

•

Aquinas College – staff who have

The units are offered to Years 7 - 9 and

special interests or qualifications;

the groups are mixed across year levels.

Murdoch, Curtin, UWA & Edith

By being part of the ASP boys are able

Cowan University - regularly provide

to have a sense of belonging with their

lecturers and experts to run units;

academically minded peers.

liberation is not limited to those mad, poor

•

and marginalised but to all people.’ This opportunity has been created to challenge the boys and liberate them from

•

Professional companies - so that

limited ways in which they confine their

students have access to people

thinking.

experienced in various fields.

“

The best part of the workshop was at the start I knew absolutely nothing about Video Games, but by listening to Leigh and Sean from Huntsman Games I was so excited to undertake this challenge that would enable me to learn something new!

“

them from self-centred thinking. Thus

12 – FISH

STEM

Something for EVERY student

Loren Green

Primary STEM Specialist

EACH STUDENT IS UNIQUE, IT IS ESSENTIAL TO PROVIDE A DYNAMIC, STUDENT-CENTRED CLASSROOM 2022 is off to a great start and the STEM

the absolute highlight of the term. Year

new forms of coding are all on the cards

Collaboratory is absolutely humming with

3 designed insects based on their body

for this term, and we can’t wait.

activity. It is often said that if the STEM

structure, inventing some truly terrifying

As each student is unique, it is essential

room is too clean, something isn’t quite

and amazing creations. Year 4 jumped

to provide a dynamic, student-centred

right. Well, there hasn’t been a single

into the world of all things plants, studying

classroom environment that the students

afternoon all year where the carpet hasn’t

the parts and characteristics of seed

want to be part of and one that allows

been mottled with bits of cardboard,

dissemination. Year 5 students became

them to reach their own personal

string, paper, glue sticks, so we must

chemists, analysing the properties of

potential. STEM allows for exactly that – a

be on the right track. Students from

matter and even contemplating the

safe space where creativity and being

Pre-Primary to Year 6 have been working

universe as we know it by making

inquisitive is exactly what is needed and

feverishly on amazing projects from plant

oobleck! To finish up, it was nothing short

where there is no wrong answer to a

pollination to musical instrument building

of electric in Year 6, with dancing, drawing

question, just the opportunity to learn

and heroes and villains with elemental

robots and electrical board games being

something new.

superpowers. STEM offers students the

designed, engineered, and played.

opportunity to partake in a huge range of

As we move into Term 2, Technology

short-term and long-term project-based

became the focus and already the

learning tasks, without the pressure of

students are super keen to learn about

assessments and assignments.

past and future forms. They were

Term 1 had a science focus, and the

fascinated when I explained that at their

content has at times followed along

age, I didn’t have a mobile phone, there

with curriculum topics. Pre-Primary

was no such thing as WIFI and even

investigated the requirement of living

more terrifying, there was no Google or

things and took home pet rocks to care

Netflix. Suddenly, the idea that things we

for. Year 1 studied light and sound and

see now in movies might well become

everything in between. Bright light and

real inventions of the future was starting

anything noisy were just the ticket in

to make sense. Their ideas just began to

this class. Year 2 looked into the water

flow! Robot designs, techno future globes,

of the world with bottle flipping being

3D printed objects and the introduction of

13 – magazine of Aquinas College

14 – FISH

CREATIVITY DURING COVID Brendan Chapman

Acting Deputy Principal

When I was asked to write an article about

who find great fulfilment in our College’s

observe production rehearsals, literally

COVID-19 for this publication, I must be

Arts programs, Term 1 has been a time of

hearing every line through the window

honest that it did not fill my mind with

oppression for them, unable to perform

of my office. Musical ensembles and

joy and is a topic often associated with

and artistically express themselves due to

bands have been rehearsing outside

relentless updates for our community

the mandated restrictions COVID-19 has

in the Visual Arts courtyard. Arriving

relating to public health, issues associated

forced upon schools.

to school and parking in the mornings

with critical workers, contact tracing,

Early in Term 1, 2022, whilst perusing

has been accompanied by a newfound

mandatory vaccinations… I digress.

the restrictions for schools with our

beat, listening to the students rehearse

On the evening on Saturday April 30, I

new Director of Performance Mrs

providing a vibrant start to the school day.

had the pleasure of being a part of the

Sonja Vaswani and our Head of Arts Mr

Whilst COVID-19 has certainly challenged

audience at UWA’s Winthrop Hall to

Chris McMillan, we all agreed that ‘the

our community in 2022, it has not

watch our Aquinas College Schola Choir

show must go on’ and we would look to

defeated us. Our community is a resilient

combine with the UWA Choral Society

creative solutions which still respect the

one, and this response from our Aquinas

and Fremantle Symphony Orchestra to

health protocols thrust upon schools to

Community is only one example of many,

perform The Armed Man: A Mass for

avoid the easy solution of cancelling/

where creativity and determination have

Peace. Inspired by Welsh composer Karl

postponing events. The use of outdoor

prevailed to ensure that our students can

Jenkins, the piece was commissioned

spaces to access natural ventilation and

be provided opportunities to thrive in their

by the Royal Armouries Museum for

greater physical distancing has been a

areas of interest like our wonderful Arts

the Millennium celebrations and was

logistical challenge at times, however, this

community.

dedicated to victims of the Kosovo crisis.

has led to some wonderful by-products.

During the performance, I reflected on the

Never before have the arts been publicly

commencement of the 2022 school year,

rehearsing around the College like this

specifically how for many of our students

semester. I have been blessed to hear and

15 – magazine of Aquinas College

BOARDING IN EXTRAORDINARY TIMES Ross Meadows Head of Boarding

Term 1 saw an unprecedented time in

environment of boarding leaving room

humour and displaying a camaraderie that

Aquinas Boarding, with COVID-19 finally

for interpretation, but throughout this

is impossible to manufacture in another

making its way into our residential

experience our focus was on making every

environment. I believe you can’t make

community. Our first case occurred over

effort to remain open and keep some

friends quite like the ones you grow up

a weekend in mid-March and resulted in

normality for the boys. The WA Health

with in boarding school, with the level of

one of our students from remote Western

Department were complimentary of how

shared experience unmatched in any other

Australia spending the night in isolation, in

the increased caseload was handled,

context. I love seeing the unexpected

a custom space setup by the College for

which is a credit to the amazing Aquinas

relationships that build between boys

boys who test positive but are unable to be

Health Centre, cleaning and supervisory

from different backgrounds with a range

collected by parents or guardians on the

staff who have worked so hard.

of interests from all over (and outside)

same day. After this result, further testing

As I write this article, I reflect on everything

the state. The sense of community spirit

was carried out which revealed a handful

that has happened over the past few

that develops through living together

of positive cases. Numbers grew across

months, I am filled with great pride at the

and learning to embrace each other’s

boarding in the same way they have in the

way in which the students, parents and

differences is a reason to be here.

broader WA community.

staff have worked together to navigate

Restrictions common in general society

the current climate in the best way

were introduced in boarding. For example,

possible. There are several reasons why

boys were only catching up with students

I choose boarding as the area to work

from other houses in outdoor settings,

in within education, and these haven’t

dining seatings were in 15-minute intervals

changed despite the challenges we faced

within house groups and limited to four

throughout Term 1 this year.

people per table, and mask-wearing

In amongst all the talk of masks, close

was encouraged in common areas.

contacts and deep cleans, the boys

Management of household and close

in Aquinas Boarding have shown their

is impossible to manufacture in

contacts was challenging with the unique

resilience in maintaining a sense of

another environment

“

The boys in Aquinas Boarding have shown their resilience in maintaining a sense of humour and displaying a camaraderie that

“

16 – FISH

THE GROWTH MINDSET JOURNEY Across the College

“

The passion for stretching yourself and sticking to it, even (or especially) when it’s not going well, is the hallmark of the growth mindset. This is the mindset that allows people to thrive during some of the most challenging times in their lives.

“

Nicole Monzu

Carol Dweck

Head of Junior School For the past four years in the Junior School

Our music programs that are now

we have had a focus on growth mindset.

introduced from Year 2 provide tangible

Our reason for this emphasis has been to

and visible opportunities for students who

educate students to appreciate mistakes

have never held a violin or double bass in

as learning, to realise abilities as being

their hands before to show growth through

something that develop and change, to

programs that provide challenge.

enjoy trying new things and to identify

‘Learning an instrument is not a single

feedback as being constructive. We have

task but a successive one that requires

used the word ‘yet’ to simplify the value

mastery of a series of recursive steps.

students or individuals in the community

of growth and in turn make it linguistically

The boys must make an initial attempt,

who positively exhibit these behaviours.

relatable. We simply want our boys to see

to try to master a scale for example and

Our Junior School Leaders program now

learning as unending. When you have a

then overcome the challenge through

provides opportunities for each boy to

conversation with a Kindy student he may

application and effort. Persistence and

grow into becoming a leader. In the past

say,”I haven’t learnt to cut yet.”

perseverance are embedded in the tasks,

a fixed number of students were selected

Our assessment practices were one of

these character virtues are then taught

to be leaders, now we provide the criteria

the first aspects that needed revision so

explicitly in our character education

for successful entry, give feedback along

that students and parents could be more

programs.

the journey towards leadership and allow

informed to acknowledge the growth

Each class from Pre-Primary to Year 6 has

entry to occur along a continuum from the

made through learning, rather than the

an opportunity to unpack character traits

end of Year 5 until the beginning of Year 6.

number achieved after a summative test.

and examine clearly how to incorporate

What we aim to impart to our boys is that

We share our pre-tests and formative

them into their life. Our Character

if you are willing to show development,

assessments with students and

Education programs or ‘CHED’ as the

improvement and challenge yourself, you

parents very intentionally. In this way all

boys call them are facilitated by an expert

can achieve your goals even if you haven’t

stakeholders can identify what needs to

teacher who unpacks each trait carefully.

got there…. yet.

be worked towards to improve. Learning

Perseverance, for example, was taught to

should be about personal excellence not

the Year 4-6 students through mastering

a percentage ranking that prematurely

the skill of juggling. The students and

begins valuing primary school aged

teachers grew alongside each other, as

children and slowly diminished their self-

they set goals and targets to improve.

esteem. We focus on feedback rather than

Every morning, classroom teachers

scores to drive excellence and feelings of

identify the character trait that is the focus

success.

for the term or weeks ahead and highlight

17 – magazine of Aquinas College

Michael Dempsey Head of Middle School Well known American author Carol Dweck

around week 7/8 which tests the

not based on grades. Each award is given

is attributed with the introduction of the

students understanding of the curriculum

through the performance indicators of

concept of Growth Mindset. In simple

taught alongside various homework

attitude, effort, punctuality, standard of

terms a growth mindset describes a

tasks throughout the term. While these

homework, reflection and organisation.

person who takes on challenges, pushes

assessments are important it is what

Of course, we still recognise our high

through when things are tough and finds

comes next that makes the biggest

achieving academic students at the end

a way to solve a problem. A fixed mindset

difference. The week following the CATs

of the year. However, by focusing on

person can often get stuck in the belief

students examine the feedback given

work habits - which can be applied in the

that they can’t do it, it is too hard, and they

by their teachers. Equally important is

classroom and to any aspect of life – we

aren’t smart enough to solve the problem.

their ability to reflect on their application

are developing a positive “can do” attitude

They have a fixed belief in their abilities.

leading up to these assessments. Having

to learning.

This concept is especially important for

a growth mindset is a nice concept

Nothing worth doing is ever easy and

students in the Middle School. After eight

though without strategies to apply to their

life constantly throws us challenges.

years in their primary education, for some

learning it isn’t enough. For example:

Students time in the Middle School

students’, mindsets can become fixed

•

Did I try my hardest or was I taking

can be difficult as they establish their

the path of least resistance?

identity, manage adolescent changes,

– especially in the classroom. A student can display a growth mindset and meet

Did I complete my homework tasks

overcome challenges, and form new

challenges head on in their chosen sport

to the best of my ability, or do

friendships. It can be a time of great

or co-curricular activity, with hours upon

just enough to keep myself out of

growth and accomplishment as they

hours of practice until they perfect the

trouble?

throw themselves into all the amazing

Did I thoroughly prepare for the CAT,

opportunities on offer to them. We firmly

or did I just study the night before?

believe by developing a culture of hard

Were my study notes neat and tidy or

work, accepting challenges, seeking our

were they incomplete and messy?

personal best, providing actions and

When I didn’t understand something

strategies for success, we encourage the

did I do something about it did I

development of a growth mindset for life.

task – kicking on their opposite foot or

•

learning a new music piece. However, the same student after 5 minutes working

•

on a difficult maths question without success, puts the pen down and finds

•

something else to do – this maths is too hard for me and only the smart kids can do it! Middle School teachers have the challenge of breaking some of the

leave it and give up? •

Have I set goals for next term with realistic strategies to meet them?

preconceived ideas their students have

Honest reflection sounds simple though

about their ability to learn. Students are

at the age of 12-14 it is an important

excited to be part of something new and

skill yet to develop. Without it, trying to

have a renewed focus for their learning.

develop a growth mindset - especially

Through Veritas (character education

when things are going well - is very

program) classes, the concept of growth

difficult. Reports are given every term

mindset is taught and combined with

which include an overall continuous grade

character traits such as persistence,

and a term grade. How powerful it is when

work ethic, patience, determination,

a student can see improvement - even if

and resilience. All-important character

only a few percent – from the previous

strengths required for a growth mindset

term. Each term is an opportunity to

to develop.

challenge yourself - no matter what level

The Middle School year is set up with

you are at – to keep improving. We believe

a very specific rhythm. Each term has

in this concept so strongly that academic

common assessment tasks (CATs)

awards that are awarded each term are

GROWTH MINDSET

18 – FISH

THROUGH CHALLENGE AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR FEEDBACK OUR FUTURE LEADERS CAN DEVELOP QUALITIES OF A GROWTH MINDSET SUCH AS PERSEVERANCE AND FLEXIBILITY

John Van Dyk Head of Senior School In the Senior School we have made a

Century Skills Badges through Education

Challenge which aligns with the council’s

significant shift to an inclusive student

Design Lab. These tasks allow students

vision and mission. Boys may run a

leadership program to foster a growth

to learn from leaders such as Steve Jobs,

fundraiser, a Tuatha Shield house-based

mindset in our students. In the past, as is

about principles such as Tuckman’s

event, or conduct mentorship activities

typical in similar schools, student leaders

Team Stages Model and then reflect and

with Middle or Junior school students.

were appointed as a College Prefect for

apply these learnings to tasks which they

This requires them to plan, communicate

their final year, based on demonstrated

submit to their Tutor teacher. At times, the

well and meet deadlines for their event

leadership. On reflection, the selection

feedback they receive is that they have not

or activity. Often the initial plans do

reinforced the misconception that

met the standard, yet, and must take time

not eventuate, and multiple attempts

leadership is an intangible, innate quality.

to improve on their work.

are required for students to meet this

However, all leaders must learn how best

Alongside these tasks for personal

leadership criteria. However, a council is

to serve their community, hone their skills

growth, we aim to empower students

a safe space to try and fail while receiving

and demonstrate attributes through their

to have a discernible impact on their

feedback from other leaders, through

actions as exemplified by Jesus and

school environment through meaningful

vertical mentoring.

Edmund Rice.

participation through student councils.

Overall, through challenge and

Our current approach to student leadership

They nominate themselves to one of

opportunities for feedback, our future

involves nurturing leadership qualities and

fourteen councils such as Sustainability,

leaders can develop qualities of a growth

practices in our Senior School students’

Service, Inclusive Community and

mindset such as perseverance and

through challenges and the application

Academics to name but a few which

flexibility along with gaining a realization

of student voice. It requires our boys to

allows them the opportunity to grow

that leadership is best demonstrated

demonstrate commitment to their own

alongside students from other year groups

through one’s actions, in the service of

development whilst having a positive

with similar passions. The older students’

others.

impact on others through a council-based

model democratic processes and as the

system. Year 10 students are invited to

council is co-led by a staff member and

commence a journey towards earning the

student Captain, it privileges student

privilege of being a Senior School Prefect.

contributions in decisions about the

They commence by looking out and then

way the school operates. Working with

inwards, developing their leadership skills

a council, students learn that leadership

by gaining knowledge on how they can

is an action word, and service to others

build skills such as initiative, collaboration,

is crucial. As part of this learning, each

and resilience by engagement with 21st

student must complete a Team Leadership

19 – magazine of Aquinas College

SPOTLIGHT ON

ADVANCED SCIENCE

David White

Head of Learning Area - Science

Term 1 saw the Year 10 Advanced

the Science Faculty telescope to look at

that they can monitor the conditions of

Science class learning about waves and

sunspots on our nearest star, which is

the telescope and ensure it won’t get

how we utilise waves in our modern way

stored in our small dome on the Science

damaged in the summer heat.

of life. This includes learning the physics

building rooftop.

These Year 10 students will later

of waves in the classroom but also

Students have also been working on

commence their own individual research

learning through project work with the

a project to use ultrasonic waves to

project under the guidance of their

aim of using wireless wave technology to

communicate or transmit information

teacher Mr Hitie, as well as university

problem solve.

across the College. Each project required

students, so that they can learn how to

Part of this module looks at how we

students to design, construct and test

solve a problem through research and

analyse waves to study the galaxy.

Arduino-based electronic transmitters

communicate their findings via report

Students have been learning how

that are individually programmed to

academic writing.

telescopes operate, focusing visible light

perform a useful function for the group.

off a mirror to study objects within the

One group have been able to build a

solar system and beyond. This included

wireless device that can transmit coded

an evening at the Perth Observatory in

messages to each other from one

Bickley where astronomy volunteers gave

end of the College to the other, while

the class a tour of the various telescopes

another group have developed a wireless

in operation as well as looking at distant

temperature sensor that transmits the

objects in the night sky millions of

current temperature from inside the

kilometres away. We have also been using

telescope dome to the classroom so

20 – FISH

OLD AQUINIANS CANINE CONNECTION

Aquinas College Old Boys currently

Constable Nick Sardinha (’10) the newest

account for nearly ten percent of the WA

of the trio to join the Canine Section.

Police Canine Section. This specialist

His police dog is a two-year-old Belgian

section normally comprises approximately

Malinois named PD Boogie.

30 dog handlers, who, along with their

The WA Police Canine Section operates 24

dogs, must undergo an extremely

hours a day, seven days per week. Its tasks

demanding training and selection process

include apprehension of violent offenders,

to ensure suitability.

narcotics detection, and tracking and

Remarkably, there are now three Old

searching for offenders involved in criminal

Aquinians in this elite unit, and they are

activities. Both handlers and dogs are

linked by more than just their schooling.

carefully selected for the role, and the

Senior Constable Rohan Gamble (‘94) is a

relationship between them is critical to

12-year veteran of the Canine Section and

their success. Training is difficult and on-

is the longest serving of the three old boys.

going, and only the most suitable police

His police dog is a six-and-a-half-year-old

officers and dogs successfully make it

Belgian Malinois named PD Razor.

through.

SC Gamble was a trainer and mentor of

The Aquinas College community is

Senior Constable Francis Wigger (‘03), who

incredibly proud to be so well represented

has been with the Section for five years.

in such an elite unit, and we thank Rohan,

SC Wigger’s police dog is a four-year-old

Francis and Nick for their service to the WA

Belgian Malinois named PD Digga.

community.

SC Wigger has continued the tradition by providing mentorship to First Class

L-R: Rohan Gamble, Nick Sardinha, Francis Wigger

21 – magazine of Aquinas College

I Am Because We Are

EDMUND RICE EDUCATION BEYOND BORDERS Sabine Driesser

EREBB Coordinating Teacher & Inclusive Practice Coordinator In collaboration with Richard Mavros, Director of Formation, Justice and Advocacy

Brothers, George Massay and John Paul

Sinon Secondary School has since

200,000 students arrive at an Edmund

Oluoch, welcomed us with a home away

reached out to us again as part of the

Rice school for an education that

from home through familiar prayers,

EREBB ‘Global Classroom Partners’

liberates, grounded in a formation that

shared meals and laughter, leaving us with

program. A new group of Aquinas and

transforms and empowers. Aquinas is

many fond memories and much gratitude.

ERSSS students has been navigating

one of these Edmund Rice schools that

It was clear we were being hosted as

language and internet hurdles to find ways

shares its founding charism and our daily

guests and nurtured as friends.

to connect online via Zoom and videos,

commitment with over 270 other Edmund

During our days in Arusha, Edmund Rice

with the desire to continue to deepen our

Rice schools. Inspired by the vision of

Sinon Secondary School invited us into

connection through a regular exchange

connecting ‘Beyond Borders’ across

their community, consisting of around

of stories. We cannot wait to see what

the global Edmund Rice movement, the

1400 students from diverse backgrounds

opportunities our connection will provide

opportunity to spend time together has

of which the majority are boarding

in the future, but our hearts are filled with

been recognised as more valuable than

students. We spent time in the classroom,

joy at the prospect of continuing to learn

can be measured.

we connected through shared cooking and

about each other, from each other and with

Throughout 2021, a group of Aquinas

meals and we enjoyed fun and games at

each other. For now, we are beginning to

College students were in dialogue

an Edmund Rice Camp Day. Cheered on

understand more deeply than ever before,

with their peers in classrooms almost

by a couple of thousand spectators, we

the insights of the Kiswahili phrase, “Nipo

9,000 kilometres away. These kinds of

warmly accepted our defeat in a friendly

kwa sababu tupo,” which loosely translates

connections have been going on since

community soccer match. Community

to “I Am Because We Are”.

January 2020 when a delegation of ten

became a key word during what was only

Aquinas students and two staff members

the beginning of an ongoing connection

were inspired by the vision of connection

that celebrates our common traditions, our

beyond borders and accepted an invitation

differences, our friendships and the thirst

to travel to Edmund Rice Sinon Secondary

for connection beyond our own borders.

School in Arusha, Tanzania.

Whilst the global pandemic has brought

Upon our arrival in Arusha, the Christian

unexpected challenges, Edmund Rice

“

The will of God be done in this and everything we undertake. Blessed Edmund Rice

“

Each day, across the world, around

22 – FISH

Schola Cantorum

2021 IN REFLECTION

Hugh Lydon Director of Aquinas Schola Cantorum 2021 saw a significant leap forward for the

to present a concert of choral favourites

attitude and willingness to adapt under

members of the Schola in numerous ways.

within the Aquinas Chapel. This is in

pressure has also seen the boys awarded

2020, was the first time that the choir had

addition to events such as the New

numerous academic, sporting and

any tenors or basses, which enabled us to

Mother’s Mass and Grandparents Day

character awards, including the Dux of

broaden our repertoire slightly. However,

which occur inside the College Chapel.

both Year 7 & 8.

these new pieces tended to still focus

Excluding the many House Chapel services

We finished the year on a high – despite

on a treble melody, with the lower voices

that the Schola participate in every

all lessons finishing in early December, the

singing basic parts accompanied by organ,

week, the ensemble performed 48 times

choristers had two more engagements.

which invariably would be playing the same

throughout 2021.

On December 7th, the choir made their

part. Not so in 2021– the difficulty level

This development has allowed us to forge

first ever recording, in which they sang

jumped up a lot, to the point that we are

partnerships with major arts organisations

two pieces in Noongar language. These

singing pieces taken from the core library

in Perth. Last year, four of our boys sang

pieces have been released on Spotify and

of choirs that are well known globally.

in the West Australian Opera’s production

Apple Music. They rounded off the year

This jump in repertoire difficulty has been

of Pagliacci. This year, we will have no

by performing all the sung music at the

matched by an increase in performances.

less than nine choristers singing in two

nationally livestreamed Catholic Mission

Throughout 2021, the Schola sang mass at

different operas – Carmen and Tosca. The

Christmas service.

St Patrick’s Basilica 28 times. In addition,

Schola will also be performing with WASO

For the Schola, the successes achieved in

they sang a mass at St Joseph’s Church

twice this year too; Britten’s War Requiem

2021 are the culmination of many hours of

in Subiaco, joined forces with the choir of

in August and Mahler’s Third Symphony in

hard work from these fine young men, who

John Septimus Roe Anglican Community

December.

are ably supported by their families, friends

School to perform Durufle’s Requiem

The boys have always been great

and staff. The Schola is very much a team

twice, toured the South West singing in

ambassadors for Aquinas whenever they

effort, the sum of its parts. I am sure that

three venues, sang more contemporary

perform, be it at St Patrick’s Basilica,

the next twelve months will see the choir

works with Breaksea @ The Rechabite

on tour to Bunbury Cathedral, or at the

rise to greater heights still.

and teamed up with Australian Baroque

weddings of Old Boys. This positive

23 – magazine of Aquinas College

24 – FISH

SUMMER SPORT

Kristian Leeson Assistant Head of Sport

2021/22 Summer Sports season has

in every opportunity presented to them

the quest for victory must never come at

had many challenges. None more so

with determination, spirit and resilience,

the expense of fair play. Good people first,

than coping with COVID-19, from no

a testament to their good character and

good sportsmen second; this message

spectators to wearing masks to close

drive for success. Regardless of whether

we live by here at Aquinas.

contact tracing to teams being decimated

we win, lose or draw, there are always

of players and coaches due to illness.

lessons to be learned on the sporting

Nevertheless, our boys have participated

field. Whilst we always strive for success,

1st Team Final Standings 2021/22 Basketball

Cricket

Tennis

1. Hale School

1. Christ Church Grammar School

1. Scotch College

2. Christ Church Grammar School

2. Wesley College

3. Aquinas College

3. Trinity College

4. Scotch College & Trinity College

4. Hale School

4. Christ Church Grammar School

6. Wesley College

5. Scotch College

5. Guildford Grammar School

7. Guildford Grammar School

6. Trinity College

6. Hale School

7. Guildford Grammar School

7. Aquinas College

Volleyball

Water Polo

1. Hale School

1. Christ Church Grammar School

2. Aquinas College

3. Wesley College

3. Trinity College

4. Christ Church Grammar School

4. Scotch Colleg

5. Scotch College

5. Hale School

6. Trinity College

6. Wesley College

7. Guildford Grammar School

A huge thank you must go to the coaches

and the Ground Staff here at Aquinas.

Sports Photography for the fantastic

and managers for their coaching

The boys are spoilt to have such excellent

photos we have seen on social media. To

expertise and support of our sporting

facilities, and we appreciate all the hard

keep up to date with the Aquinas College

program. The staff are enthusiastic and

work you do to maintain and set up the

Sports program, please follow the ‘@

help ensure that the sporting program

sporting grounds for us.

aquinascollegesport’ Instagram account

is the best it can be. Without their time,

Thank you to the medical staff and our

and ‘@AquinasSport” on Twitter.

effort and support, none of this would be

wonderful admin staff for your hard work

possible.

and organisation behind the scenes.

Thank you to Steve Burke, Shaun Williams

Lastly, to Tom Campbell from Total

25 – magazine of Aquinas College

Swimming Please see the final standings below from the PSA Swimming

After collating the results from the School Swimming

Carnival held on Thursday, 1st March, at HBF Stadium:

Championship Carnival held on Tuesday, 22nd February, we are

PSA Swimming Carnival

pleased to announce the following age-group champions:

1. Christ Church Grammar School

Under 13

2. Hale School

Champion: Ashton Phelan // Runner-up: Eli Hickman

3. Scotch College

Under 14

4. Trinity College

Champion: Jake Arena // Runner-up: Tom Parker

5. Wesley College

Under 15

6. Aquinas College

Champion: Ethan Hickman // Runner-up: Seth Morris

7. Guildford Grammar School

Under 16

Congratulations to all boys who represented the College and

Champion: Dustin Vernall // Runner-up: Jake Gooding

displayed great sportsmanship and effort on the day. There were

Under 17

some outstanding individual and team performances throughout

Champion: Jackson Brace // Runner-up: Lachlan Brennan

the day, and many students achieved personal bests.

Open

Congratulations to the following boys and teams who won their

Champion: Kurtis Tanna // Runner-up: Harrison Grattidge

respective events:

We hope to have all students on board again next season. The

Under 13

future is promising and if all students stick together and commit

50m Backstroke (Division 1): Ashton Phelan

to the Swimming program from the start, this will hold us in good

Under 16

stead.

4 x 50m Medley Relay (Division 2): Jesse Barr, Thomas

It was a pleasure working with the coaching staff, a good mix of

Dreverman, Cooper Hopkins & Samson Jennings Hopkins

teachers and external coaches. We want to thank all the coaches

Under 17

for giving up their time throughout the season.

50m Butterfly (Division 2): Christopher Brace 4 x 50m Medley Relay (Division 2): Tarou Barron, Aidan Harvey, Benjamin Russell & Jonah Whitby

26 – FISH

From the Coaches For every 1st team that are multiples of 2nd’s, 3rd’s, 4th’s and beyond. It take breadth & depth to develop a competitive sporting program at Aquinas College. Please see a snapshot from some of our coaches below: Senior School Cricket 4th XI

43-degree day at Hale. As we all melted

24-0 victories against Christchurch

This was my first introduction to coaching

together, our boys remained resolute and

and Wesley, who had beaten us in the

PSA Cricket. I was privileged to get a

played brilliant cricket.

first round of fixtures. However, the

magnificent group of boys. The shorter

Overall, I have enjoyed the opportunity to

battle against Scotch in the last match

format of the game, typically consisting

coach this group and was very impressed

demonstrated the spirit and progress the

of 30 overs each, was preferred by all

with the boys.

team had made since their first game.

involved. The lusty hitting on display in

Senior School Tennis 3rd VIII

Despite missing several players, the

our first week at training led me to think

It was an excellent season for the Senior

players gave it a real go and narrowly lost

that the boys had watched too much of

School Tennis 3rd Team, with the players

on the day to the top team.

the BBL Cricket and that they were, in fact,

demonstrating great competitive spirit

Success is often associated with wins

well suited to the shorter format.

and great energy throughout the season.

but what constitutes a ‘win’ is open

In Game One, we did not go close to

While it was pleasing to see the team

to interpretation. For this team, the

lasting our 30 overs. The bats were

finish the season with a winning record,

camaraderie amongst the players on

swinging so hard and high that Lynch Oval

it was secondary to how they achieved

match day and during training with the

could have been mistaken for a wind farm

it. The goal that was set for the players

rest of the Senior Tennis teams meant we

rather than a sporting facility.

at the start of the season was to make

always had one form of success every

We had a team meeting to decide what

sure they competed in every match, never

week throughout the season.

we wanted to achieve, and we proceeded

gave up and put into practice what they

It was also great to see players willing

to work towards that goal. Our highlight

learnt during training. The benchmark

to learn and improve as the season

in Term 4 was beating Hale at their home

was giving their absolute best, enjoying

progressed, with the team’s depth

ground at Craig Oval two weeks in a

themselves and letting the result take

certainly increasing and causing some

row on the last ball. Term 1 this year, we

care of itself; this is something the players

selection headaches – which was a good

continued on our good form with the

did throughout the season.

problem to have.

majority of the team staying together.

After starting the season with three

Overall, the season was a great success

The Term 1 highlight was again beating

losses, the team went on an eight-

for many reasons and certainly sets the

Hale in a 20/20 match on a sweltering

match winning streak featuring several

foundation for more in the future.

27 – magazine of Aquinas College

Middle School Volleyball Year 7 Squad

I look forward to following your Aquinas

our boys showed tactical awareness,

This season I had the privilege of coaching

Volleyball journeys, and I wish you all

grit and determination to combat their

a fantastic group of young gentlemen.

the best in your sport and schooling

strengths. The boys played right to the final

The boys that played were committed to

commitments.

whistle with an excellent team goal going

Aquinas Volleyball and demonstrated the

Senior School Water Polo 2nd VII

from one end to the other, with Lukas

values that we hope to see our young men

It was an excellent season for the 2nd VII

Mollica scoring in the dying seconds.

show. Year 7 Volleyball in any competition

Water Polo team dropping only one game

Aquinas won by a single goal. The way the

is mainly focused on skill development and

marginally to Hale School in one of the

boys played for each other, shared the ball

development of the players’ understanding

final rounds due to a COVID-19 riddled

and goals was pleasing to see as a coach.

of the game. I am very pleased with what

team. As this is my fourth year coaching

I wish the boys all the best with their future

the young men demonstrated this term,

at the College, the majority of the team I

endeavours and hopefully, many choose to

particularly their sportsmanship and how

have coached before at the Middle School

play Water Polo beyond their schooling life

the team embraced new challenges and

level. It has been a pleasure seeing them

at Aquinas.

ways of thinking about volleyball.

grow from boys to young men within the

This was demonstrated in a particularly

Senior School team. The ability to transfer

close match against Wesley one Friday

skills and knowledge of not only sport but

afternoon. This match went down to the

for life to this group specifically has been a

wire, requiring a 5th set to determine

wonderful experience and I hope that they

the winner. I am happy to say that the

continue to use this in their future lives as

mighty red and black got up through our

I believe there is a significant correlation

determination, guts, commitment to our

between sport and life.

team, and ability to work together as one

The season’s highlight for our group took

unit.

place against a strong Christ Church team.

Finally, I would like to thank the boys for

This stands out as the season highlight

their support and willingness to attempt

due to the style we played. Christ Church

every challenge I threw at them this term.

are dominant in size and speed. However,

28 – FISH

Rowing The Aquinas rowers of 2022 continued

minimal training sessions. Over the short

was on display in winning both of these

to raise the standards set by the year

season for the Year 9’s, they showed

events.

groups before, both on and off the water.

continual improvement to be highly

The 2nd VIII had a tough battle all

Led by Captain of Boats Ashton Teixeira

competitive at the Head of the River.

season with Christ Church and Guildford

and a strong, dedicated group of Year

Had the season extended further, I am

Grammar and ultimately finished in 3rd

12 rowers, the boys proved that despite

confident that the boys would have

place at the Head of the River. Stroked

the challenges posed by the COVID-19

continued improving and pushing for top

by Domenic Evangelista for the second

pandemic, they would be highly adaptable

placings in all races.

year in a row, the boys gave their all on

to perform whenever required.

Post Head of the River, the Year 9’s

the day and can be very proud of their

After a week-long training camp in

continued to train and changed from

performance.

Bunbury during the Term 3 holidays, the

rowing quad sculls into rowing in the

This year, the 1st VIII was led by a new

boys were committed to starting strong

eights for the first time. The boys

coach and Old Boy, Steve Saunders,

and setting the standard for the season

competed at the final regatta of the

having returned to the College after many

ahead. At the first regatta in Term 4, the

season in the eights against older rowers

years of success at Christ Church. The

rowers retained both the Nick Garratt

from the other schools and competed

boys challenged at the Head of the River,

Shield for Champion School and Brian

admirably. Many positives to look forward

but ultimately the more experienced

Tonkin Cup for the winning 1st VIII at the

to with the current Year 9’s.

crews of Hale and Christ Church were just

Aquinas on Canning Time Trial Regatta.

Our Year 10 rowers had a very consistent

too fast. The Aquinas 1st VIII finished in

The Aquinas rowers won the Michael

season. Under the leadership of former

3rd place, but with five Year 11 students

Paton Trophy for Champion School

1st VIII Coach Scott Chesterton, Old

in the crew, the outlook for next year’s

at the Guildford on Swan Regatta two

Boys Phil Colic, Cameron Glover and

crew looks very positive. Overall, Aquinas

weeks later. This was the first time the

Max Radotic, the boys had strong

finished 2nd place in the Hamer Cup for

College had won this trophy which was

performances at the Head of the River.

Champion School behind Trinity College.

first introduced in the year 2000. An

The 10A VIII and 10B VIII finished 3rd in

Please see the final standings below from

outstanding achievement by the boys.

very close races, whilst the 10A Quad

the PSA Head of the River Carnival held

During January, a training camp was held

finished 2nd. The top three places for all

on Saturday, 26th February, at Champion

at the College for the Year 10, 11 and 12

Year 10 crews show some solid signs for

Lakes:

rowers. Typically, this camp would be held

this year’s group moving forward as they

Hamer Cup

off-site, but with COVID-19 restrictions

progress into the senior program next

1. Trinity College

around the state, the rowers took

year. Post Head of the River, the Year 10’s

2. Aquinas College & Christ Church

advantage of the brilliant facilities at the

trained and competed with the Year 11’s

Grammar School

College. The boys stayed in the Aquinas

to look towards the 2023 Head of the

4. Guildford Grammar School

Boarding houses and were catered for

River.

5. Hale School

by the Aquinas catering staff and rowed

Our senior rowers were the best

6. Wesley College

out of the newly completed River Centre.

performing school in the PSA. Our 4th

7. Scotch College

With most rowers being day students, this

VIII consistently improved over the

proved to be an excellent opportunity for

shortened season and became the first

them to experience boarding life.

Aquinas College 4th VIIIt to win at the

Our Year 9 rowers commenced their

Head of the River. Under the leadership

Term 1 training upon returning to school.

of Old Boy Chris Kilroe, this crew showed

A large group of very competitive Year

tremendous spirit to win after being

9 would compete for seats at this year’s

nearly 20 seconds behind in the first

Head of The River. With the Head of

regatta of the season. Our 3rd VIII had

The River moved three weeks early

an undefeated Term 1 season and had a

to accommodate the ever-changing

convincing win at the Head of the River.

COVID-19 situation, the boys only had

The depth of the Aquinas rowing program

29 – magazine of Aquinas College

30 – FISH

FOUNDATION

Updates LOUISE SYMONDS Executive Officer - Aquinas College Foundation

2021 VOLUNTEER & DONOR SUNDOWNER 26 NOVEMBER 2021

31 – magazine of Aquinas College

FAREWELL TO THE OLD AQUINIANS & FRIENDS REUNION TOUR GROUP After 15 tours to iconic WA locations

to the organisational efforts of Jack

On accepting the cheque - along with a

between 2006 and 2022 (missing 2020

(’54) and Ronda Bana. Each year a tour

special commemorative plaque - Principal

only due to COVID-19), the end of the

booklet was produced, incorporating the

David McFadden thanked the group

line has come for the Old Aquinians and

full tour itinerary – dates and times - the

for their tremendous contributions to

Friends Reunion Tour Group. The original

names and contact details of all the

Aquinas College Bursaries over many

group of travellers was comprised of

tour participants, details of all previous

years, contributions that have directly

Aquinas graduates from the 1950’s, with

tours, details of all previous Foundation

supported the mission of the College to

‘friends’ added along the way as numbers

contributions and helpful hints for a happy

educate boys who would otherwise not be

dwindled. Fast forward to 2022 and many

trip.

able to attend Aquinas.

of the original group have passed away or

Each tour included a special dinner with

Although there was a feeling of great

now find touring too difficult due to illness

a live auction of various goods donated

sadness at the closing of an era, there

or incapacity.

by members of the tour group, with the

was an overwhelming sense of gratitude

As reported in the December 2021

proceeds of the auction - and any leftover

for the fun and the camaraderie shared

issue of Fish Magazine, the 15th tour to

tour fees or donations - forming the

by all who took part in the tours over 15

Margaret River in November last year was

basis of the annual contribution to the

years, as well as a great sense of pride in

the group’s swansong tour. Since their

Foundation.

helping many young boys to receive an

first tour to New Norcia and Wongan Hills

On Thursday 20 January 2022, the

Aquinas education.

in 2006 - the brainchild of Bill Boekeman

College and the Foundation welcomed

From the College, a big thank you to

(’54) - the group has covered key locations

more than 40 past members of the group

everyone involved. Your generosity has

between Kalbarri in the north, Albany

for a final, annual Foundation thank

provided many bright and deserving

in the south and Kalgoorlie to the east,

you luncheon. The event afforded the

boys with the opportunity to realise their

savouring the local attractions at every

group an opportunity to come together

dreams and change their lives for the

stop while raising more than $60,000 for

for a formal windup that included

better. We wish you all good health and

Aquinas College Bursaries along the way.

presentations to key tour group players,

look forward to other opportunities to

Each tour was arranged and conducted

speeches and the handing over of their

welcome you back to the College.

with military precision, thanks mostly

final Foundation cheque for $4,915.

Introduction of the 1950’s Bus Tour Bursary in 2023

Experience Sought

This bursary comes about as a group of the Class of

community - and their extended families - who have

1954, along with their friends, have for the last 15 years

considerable experience in writing grant applications for the

organised a tour to parts of regional Western Australia. The

education sector and are in a position to provide pro bono

fundraising along the way has provided funds to support

support to the Foundation. Please forward any expressions

the bursaries that the College offers to students.

of interest to Louise.Symonds@aquinas.wa.edu.au .

The Foundation is seeking members of the College

32 – FISH

THANK YOU

to all our 2021 Foundation Donors Mr B & Mrs M Abbott

Mr I & Mrs L Brennan

Mr B & Mrs K Cunning

Mr D & Mrs J Fulwood

Mr S & Mrs C Holloway

Mr H Alvarez & Dr D

Mr RN Brennan

Mr M Cunnold & Ms E

Anonymous

Dr A & Mrs A Hooper

Kallidis-Alvarez

Mr A & Mrs J Brittain

Grimshaw

Mr C & Mrs S Gammon

Mr P & Mrs J Hopfmueller

Mr J & Mrs J Alvaro

Mr S & Mrs L Brockhurst

Mr E & Mrs S Cybula

Mr N Gan & Mrs S Lai

Mr T & Mrs L Hopkins

Mr A & Mrs L Ambrosino

Mr G & Mrs E Brown

Mr T & Mrs L Da Silva

Dr S & Dr S Ganapathipillai

Mr J & Mrs A Horgan

Mr C & Mrs N Antonio

Mr P & Mrs J Brown

Dr P & Mrs E Dallimore

Mr R & Mrs R Gardiner

Mr M & Mrs S Horsfall

Mr A & Dr G Arena

Miss L Browne

Mr V & Mrs D Damjanovic

Mr R & Mrs A Gardner

Ms J Howard

Argyle Family

Mr G & Mrs C Bryndzej

Mr K Green & Ms B Dann

Mrs W & Mr C Gardner

Dr Z Huang & Ms X Guo

Mr I & Mrs T Armstrong

Mr T & Mrs D Bucat

Mr C & Mrs J Davies

Mr A & Mrs J Gasmier

Dr D & Mrs K Hudson

Mr D & Mrs D Artingstall

Mr N & Mrs K Burnett

Mr G & Mrs J Davies

Mr J & Mrs A Gavranic

Mr G Hughes & Ms N Egginton

Mr F & Mrs S Ashe

Mr I & Ms S Burvill

Mr R & Mrs S Dearlove

Dr N Gnanendran & Mrs S

Mr M & Mrs A Hughes

Mr M & Mrs L Ashton

Mr S & Mrs J Burvill

Mr L Delahunt & Mrs Y

Nimalan

Mr B & Mrs D Hulls

Mr B & Mrs R Atwell

Mr M & Mrs M Burych

Humich-Delahunt

Mr B & Mrs E Goeree

Mr B & Mrs D Hulls

Mr A & Mrs K Auret

Mr E & Mrs T Cain

Mr D & Mrs A Della Bona

Mr G Gordon & Miss J Fox

Mr I Humich

Mr A & Mrs C Bacon

Mr J & Mrs J Campbell

Mr I & Mrs P Dennis

Anonymous

Mr K Hutchinson

Mr R & Mrs D Barlow

Mr M Canton & Mrs L Xiao

Ms K Destremau

Mr M & Mrs D Goundrey

Mr P & Mrs J Hutchinson

Mr G & Mrs N Barnden

Mr M & Mrs J Capelli

Mr R & Mrs L Di Toro

Mr O & Mrs A Grahame

Mr B & Mrs C Hyde

Mr C & Mrs S Barnett

Mr M & Mrs K Caughey

Mr S Dixon

Mr S Grant & Ms A Mackay

Mr P Hymus

Mr D & Mrs R Barnett

Mr M & Mrs K Chambers

Ms S Donaldson

Mr N & Mrs L Grazia

Mr A & Mrs K Imms

Mr F & Mrs T Barr

Mr B & Mrs N Champness

Mr B & Mrs F Douglas

Mr P & Mrs F Greenland

Mr D & Mrs C Ivancich

Mr J & Mrs R Barrett

Mr K & Mrs L Chan

Ms D Dover

Mr C Grida

Mr A Jackson & Mrs M

Anonymous

Mr F & Mrs A Chaney

Mr T & Mrs E Doyle

Mr M & Mrs C Griffiths

Liang-Jackson

Mr P Bayliss & Mrs K Wheeler

Mr O & Mrs D Charlesworth

Mr P & Mrs D Drake-Brockman

Mr R & Mrs C Hales

Mr M & Mrs N Jain

Mr T & Mrs F Beckett-Cooper

Hon E & Ms E Charlton

Mr A & Mrs E Draper

Mr M Hall & Ms K Dewson-Hall

Mr L Jannetta

Mr J & Mrs K Beissel

Mr S Chester & Mrs L Borovina

DT Contracting Pty Ltd

Mr P & Mrs J Harburn

Mr L Jayatilaka & Ms F Smith

Mr A & Mrs M Berson

Mr F & Mrs K Chia

Mr M & Mrs R Ducler des

Mr D & Mrs R Hardey

Mr D Melbin & Mrs H Jefferys

Mr M & Mrs N Bettini

Mr J & Mrs M Christie

Rauches

Mr B & Mrs S Hardie

Mr D & Mrs J Jenaway

Mr C Beveridge & Dr D Moniaga

Mr B Clarke

Mr S & Mrs M Dymmott

Mr P & Mrs K Harney

Mrs L Jenaway

Mr N & Mrs R Bhat

Mr J & Mrs R Clarke

Mr J & Mrs R Eade

Mr P Harrison & Ms D Palandri

Mr H & Mrs N Johnson

Mr D & Mrs R Bianchini

Mr T & Mrs M Clune

Mr B & Mrs S Edwards

Ms D Hart

Mr P Johnson

Mr M & Mrs M Biscotto

Mr K Coakley

Mr R & Mrs N Elhaj

Mr D & Mrs L Harvey

Mr W & Mrs J Johnstone

Mr J & Mrs D Bisenio

Mr P Collins

Mr L & Mrs R Evangelista

Mr I & Mrs J Harwood

Mr S & Mrs C Jolly

Mr T & Mrs L Blackadder

Dr J Connor & Mrs D Kurmann

Mr D Ewart & Mrs D Liu

Mr A & Mrs P Haslett

Mr N & Mrs S Jordan

Mr A Bobey & Ms F Brooks

Mr G & Mrs J Conte

Mr P & Mrs R Farmer

Mr J & Mrs S Hawke

Mr D & Mrs K Karczub

Mr J & Mrs J Bow

Mr S Cormack

Mr L & Mrs M Farrell

Mr R & Mrs K Heal

Kennedy Family

Mr M & Mrs A Bower

Anonymous

Mr J & Mrs P Fievez

Mr K Healy

Mr C Kennett

Mr R Bower

Mr F & Mrs S Costa

Mr A & Mrs S Figueiredo Melo

The Hon Justice E & Mrs E

Mr G Kent & Ms K Soh

Mr R & Mrs M Bowring

Mr R & Mrs A Cousins

Mr L & Mrs J Fimmel

Heenan

Mr K & Mrs L Kent

Mr J & Mrs S Brace

Mr R & Mrs K Cousins

Mr S & Mrs M Fisher

Anonymous

Mr P & Mrs S Keppel

Dr S Bracknell & Dr D Green

Mr M & Mrs E Cox

Mr D & Mrs A Fissioli

Mr T & Mrs K Herbert

Ms A Kesic

Mr A Brady

Mr C & Mrs K Craker

Mr A & Mrs R Foss

Ms W Hernan

Mr R & Mrs D Kestel

Mr S & Mrs D Brady

Ms J Critch

Mr M & Mrs J Foss

Mr B & Mrs R Heron

Mr T & Mrs N Kilpatrick

Mr P Brandsma

Mr S & Mrs P Crommelin

Mr A & Mrs P Fraga-Diaz

Mr P & Mrs A Hicks

Mr A & Mrs S King

Mr B & Mrs T Brennan

Mr T & Mrs S Cronin

Mr A & Mrs A Francesca

Mr S & Mrs J Higgins

Mr D & Mrs J King

Mr G & Mrs M Brennan

Mr B & Mrs M Cummins

Mr S & Mrs H Fry

Mr W Hill

Mr S & Mrs C Klomp

33 – magazine of Aquinas College

Mr N Menchetti & Ms A Erceg

Mr I & Mrs S Patane

Mr R & Mrs S Sceresini

Anonymous

Mr W Kynaston

Mr A Mendoza & Dr H

Dr W & Dr M Pavey

Mr H & Mrs M Schmidt

Mr F & Mrs N Varone

Mr B & Mrs H Lamb

Cabalu-Mendoza

Mr A & Mrs S Payne

Mr K & Mrs J Scott

Vince’s Mobile Woodfired Pizzas

Mr R & Mrs M Lamont-Smith

Mr J & Mrs Merillo

Mr A & Ms J Peaker

Mr M & Mrs J Scott

Mr P & Mrs J Vinci

Mr P & Mrs M Latham

Mr A & Mrs M Milani

Mr G & Mrs J Pearson

Ms P Scott

Mr M & Mrs L Vlismas

Mr S Lawrence John & Mrs J

Mr J & Mrs N Millard

Mr J & Mrs A Pemberton

Mr B & Mrs V Shannahan

Mr G & Mrs A Waldock

Shibu

Mr B & Mrs S Miller

Mr P Perry

Mr A & Mrs K Smith

Mr J & Mrs J Wallis

Mr D & Dr R Lea

Mr R & Mrs N Milne

Mr J & Mrs B Perry OAM

Mr D Smith

Mr M & Mrs E Wallis

Mr A & Mrs W Lee

Mr K & Mrs J Mitchell

Mr G & Mrs G Philip

Mr D & Mrs J Smith

Mr S Atkins & Ms L Walters

Dr J Lee & Ms V Tran

Mr S & Mrs N Moir

Mr B & Mrs T Pickett

Mr J & Mrs M Smith

Mr D & Mrs T Warlters

Mr N & Mrs A Leeson

Mr S & Mrs G Mondello

Mr A & Dr G Pike

Mr G Snow & Ms P Gardener

Mr R & Mrs J Warr

Mr S & Mrs A L’Estrange

Anonymous

Mr R Pini & Ms V Bradshaw

Mr C & Mrs L Soklich

Mr D & Mrs L Waters

Mr R & Mrs C Librizzi

Mr S & Mrs P Montgomery

Mr R & Mrs L Pino

Mr C & Mrs J Spence

Mr G & Mrs S Watkins

Ms M Lo Presti

Mr K & Mrs K Morisey

Mr H Poasa & Mrs P

Mr S & Mrs K Spencer

Mr P Webb

Mr D & Mrs G Locke

Mr D & Mrs L Motton

Lemisio-Poasa

Mr D & Mrs K Sprigg

Mr D & Mrs A West

Mr R & Mrs C Lomen

Dr A & Mrs P Mukherjee

Mr M & Mrs E Pobjoy

Mr D Squires & Mrs S

Mr K & Mrs K Wilhelm

Mr M & Mrs E Loughnan

Mr T & Ms S Mulcahy

Mr A & Mrs J Porteous

Dale-Squires

Ms S Williams

Mr T & Mrs C Luzny

Mr B & Mrs B Mumme

Mr G & Mrs K Povey

Mr M Fitzpatrick & Ms J

Mr R & Mrs A Wilson

Mr T & Mrs R Mackay

Mr T Murphy

Mr M & Mrs S Prandi

Stanbrook

Mr J & Mrs J Winnett

Mrs M Mackintosh

Mr A & Mrs D Murray

Mr G & Mrs R Praxl

Mr J & Mrs R Stenslunde

Mr D & Mrs H Wisewould

Mr P & Ms K Mahar

Mr A & Mrs C Murray

Mr M & Ms L Price

Mr J & Mrs S Stopforth

Mr S & Mrs K Woods

Mr P & Mrs C Mais

Mr J & Mrs A Murray

Mr K & Mrs V Prindiville

Mr S Subburaj & Mrs S Kopeti

Mr P & Mrs N Woodward

Mr W & Mrs J Maley

Mr T Neesham & Ms A Honey

Mr S & Mrs L Properjohn

Mr C & Mrs T Suckling

Mr A & Mrs N Worth

Ms D Manning

Mr L & Mrs M Nel

Anonymous

Mr B & Mrs K Sumich

Mr G Wouts & Dr E Glasson

Mr N Maroney & Mrs A Dudar

Mr S & Mrs S Ng

Anonymous

Mr M & Mrs H Svosve

Mr P & Mrs C Wright

Mr C & Mrs S Marshall

Mr Q Nguyen & Mrs A Pham

Mr M & Mrs V Raphael

Dr D & Mrs L Syed

Ms G Wubs

Mr R & Mrs C Marston

Mr S & Mrs S Niazi

Mr G & Mrs T Rayner

Symonds Family

Mrs K Yasuda & Mr E Tsang

Mrs J Martin

Mr S & Mrs M Nicholls

Mr A & Mrs L Rechichi

Mr A & Mrs M Tanna

Mr S Yeo

Mr E & Mrs R Masaka

Mr D & Mrs M Nixon

Mr J & Mrs S Redelinghuys

Mr B & Mrs N Taylor

Mr D & Mrs J Yeow

Mr M & Mrs J Mascarenhas

Mr P & Mrs S Nolan

Mr J Redmond

Mr J & Mrs S Temby

Mr S & Mrs S Young

Mr J & Mrs M Maslin

Mr M Noonan-Crowe & Ms L

Reed Family

Mr P & Mrs V Tempra

Mr D & Mrs A Zaza

Mr S & Mrs C Mayne

Thurston

Mr M & Mrs S Regan

Mr S Thiedeman & Mrs C

Dr H & Mrs S Zhu

Mr S McCarthy & Ms J Arnold

Mr M & Mrs J O’Callaghan

Mr C & Mrs A Richards

Lowe-Thiedeman

Mr J & Mrs R Zito

Mr M McCormack

Dr C Ogwu & Dr B Itotoh

Mr J Richards

Mr S & Mrs S Thiel

Mr P & Mrs J Zoiti

Mr T & Mrs S McCormack

Old Aquinians’ & Friends

Mr K & Mrs D Richardson

Mr J Thomas & Ms S Tariq

Mr A & Mrs T McFarland

Reunion Tour Group

Mr M & Mrs E Richter

Mr L & Mrs M Thong

Mr K & Mrs C McGahren

Mr R Cocksedge & Ms G

Mr R & Mrs M Rifici

Mr B & Mrs P Tilley

Mr A & Mrs S McGarrigle

O’Loughlin

Mr P & Mrs L Robertson

Mr C & Mrs S Timms

Mr M & Mrs H McGrath

Mr B O’Meara

Dr J & Mrs J Robinson

Mr K Tinsley

Mr R & Mrs T McIlveen

Mr J & Mrs J Omodei

Mr I & Mrs N Rowson

Mr A & Mrs M Tomljanovich

Mr P & Mrs S McKenzie

Dr M & Mrs J O’Neill

Mr P & Mrs G Ruane

Mr B & Mrs A Tooker

Mr B & Ms A McLean

Mr R & Mrs T O’Neill

Mr R Scaglione & Mrs C Ruatta

Mr P Tormey

Mr K & Ms A McLean

Mr H & Mrs K op den Dries

Mr M & Mrs C Rummer

Mr L Trewartha & Mrs C

Mr T & Mrs N McLernon

Mr P O’Shaughnessy

Mr G & Mrs M Russell

Bracknell

Mr B McMahon

Mr K & Mrs R Osman

Mr A & Mrs Y Sachse

Mr K Trewhella & Ms V Storer

Mr S & Mrs J McMahon

Mr R & Mrs L Otero

Mr T & Mrs C Sader

Mr P & Mrs H Trueman

Mr K & Mrs J McNee

Mr M & Mrs C Paganoni

Mr J & Mrs V Salerian

Mr M Healy & Ms C Truscott

Mr P & Mrs P McVittie

Mr G Page & Mrs M Page

Dr S Salfinger

Mr G Turner & Ms K

Mr J Curley & Mrs L Mele De

Mr R & Mrs D Palmer

Mr I Saunders & Mrs S Chant

Barjaktarevic

Carvalho Curley

Mr S & Mrs K Panton

Mr B & Mrs M Sayers

Mr M & Ms A Turner

Mr M & Mrs P Mena

Mr C & Mrs M Paoliello

Mr M & Mrs J Scannell

Mr S & Mrs K Tyrrell

OUNDATION

Mr D & Mrs C Knox

34 – FISH

Pars JACK RUDRUM (‘15) After graduating from Aquinas College in

Avicena Systems, a biotechnology

2015, Jack Rudrum went on to complete

company, working as a biomedical

a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at

research scientist to develop a high

the University of Western Australia

throughput and extremely sensitive

(2019), majoring in Microbiology and

machine for detecting COVID-19 and

Immunology. During 2020 to 2021, Jack

Influenza within large-scale populations.

then completed a Master of Infectious

Jack also feels very fortunate to have

Diseases. During his studies at UWA

recently been awarded a Fulbright

and in collaboration with the Telethon

Scholarship, where he will be conducting

Kids Institute, he was able to conduct

a Ph.D at the Massachusetts Institute

a research dissertation studying

of Technology (MIT) in the United

alternative therapeutic options to combat

States, studying Microbiology and

antimicrobial resistance. In the 6 months

Bio-Engineering.

since finishing his Masters, he has joined

BRENDAN BOWEN (‘91) Upon graduating from Aquinas in 1991, Brendan Bowen worked as a Futures Trader for seven years on the Sydney Futures Exchange. When the trading floor closed, he took a job at Westpac, where he has been working for the last 19 years - most recently within their Life Insurance business. Brendan also runs a farmers market stall on the weekend, which he has been doing every Saturday for the last 20 years. Brendan got married at the age of 24 and is now the father of seven children.

JUSTIN BACK (‘97) Justin Back began his career in the

time, he worked primarily in West Africa,

Louisiana (West) service areas, as well

Australian Army after graduating from

South America and the subcontinent

as Vice President of Integrations. Justin

the Royal Military College and served for

in business development and project

has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business

eight years. During this time, he served in

management roles. Justin moved to the

Administration from Southern Cross

command roles in Iraq and Afghanistan,

U.S. to work as a project manager in the

University and an MBA from LSU.

working closely with U.S. and coalition

domestic onshore oil and gas industry

forces.

before joining Acadian in June 2013 as

After his military service, he entered

Vice President of Fleet Operations. He

the maritime industry and was based

later served as Regional Vice President

in Singapore for five years. During this

for Acadian’s North Texas, Tennessee and

35 – magazine of Aquinas College

ALEC O’HALLORAN (‘67) Alec O’Halloran’s fascination in Western

exemplary art career. It offers insights

Desert art, spanning WA and the Northern

into the unique relationship between an

Territory, began in the mid 1990s, and led

individual artist and an art centre, which is

him to research and write the authorised

very topical these days regarding issues

biography of one of the movement’s

of exploitation and authenticity in art.

founders, Mick Namarari Tjapaltjarri

Alec has gained so much insight into

(c1923-1998). He was a Pintupi man who

Aboriginal art, culture and history through

became an award-winning artist.

his study of Namarari’s life and art and

The biography, The Master from Marnpi,

he’d love to share it with you.

chronicles his extraordinary life and

ANDREW JACKSON (‘91)

ZACK HOLMES (‘07)

After graduating from Aquinas in 1991, Andrew Jackson did a

Congratulations to Zak Holmes (‘07) who played his 100th

medical degree in Perth, where he also met his wife Catherine.

game for Toulouse on 5 February 2022. Zack has a contract

He has continued to enjoy living and working in Perth since

with Bordeaux for next season starting in August 2022.

and now has three kids, the eldest one has just finished school. Andrew gets a lot of satisfaction from his work in mental health as a psychiatrist, and his other joys are family, friends, architecture, music, economics, football and camping.

JOHN

DENIS

MATTHEW

JOHNSTON (‘66)

CARMODY (‘81)

FLUGGE (‘81)

After John Johnston graduated Aquinas

Denis Carmody graduated from Aquinas

Matthew Flugge left the College on the last

College in 1966, he worked in the oilfield

College in 1981. Upon graduation, he

day of school and went back to the farm to

which took him around the world and

returned to the family farm in Kulin and

get ready for his end of year party. Since

then back home to Perth. John is now

is now working with B&J Catalano. Since

then, Matthew has worked for an explosives

retired and lives with his wife in Bull Creek,

marrying in 2000, Denis has had 3 children,

and fertiliser company in Melbourne. He

where they do a lot of baby sitting of their

one boy and two girls.

has now been married for 31 years and has

grandchildren.

three sons and one daughter.

36 – FISH

ALLAN ENGLISH (‘72) Allan Engligh (‘72) is an entrepreneur

through the donation of half of their

who was the brains behind SilverChef

family’s shareholding in SilverChef. The

and Rent-Try-Buy. The experience

English Family Foundations mission

giving young hospitality entrepeneurs

is to support transformational change

a helping hand to achieve their dreams

in our world through the growth and

in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and

development of social entrepeneurs and

around the world.

social businesses.

Allan and his family also esablished the English Family Foundation in 2010

JORDAN ANDREOTTA (‘03)

JAMES COLLINS (‘17)

A huge congratulations to Jordan

Congratulations to Old

Andreotta (‘03), who is the winner of the

Aquinian James Collins,

National Teacher – Artist Prize for

Class of 2017, on being

2022!

selected as a part of the Kookaburras squad for 2022!

MICHAEL PERROTT (‘63) Michael Perrott’s (‘63) family history and

Michael left Aquinas and graduated with a

that of Aquinas College are inextricably

Bachelor of Commerce from UWA before

linked. His father Thomas was a student at

being called to join the armed forces.

CBC on the Terrace in 1938 and one of the

Michael’s ability to play Cricket is a skill he

founders of Perth’s business community

has passed on to generations of Aquinians.

throughout the early part of last century.

He coached the 1st XI in 1981-82, 1984

The Perrott Wing (Mathematics) at Aquinas

and 1985. His return to his alma mater was

College was named for Thomas, he

not confined to the Cricket pitch as he also

contributed significantly to it’s construction.

chaired the Aquinas College Board for a

Michael continued his father’s work,

decade from 1985.

inherited his faith and his love of Cricket, all

He was made a Member of the Order of

in the spirit of the school his family still has

Australia in June 2008 for services to

ties to with generations carrying on family

“mental health, suicide prevention and

tradition and attending Aquinas College.

further education”.

In his leaving year, Michael was Prefect, College Captain, won titles at the State Athletics Championships and Honours for his ability in Cricket, Football and Athletics.

37 – magazine of Aquinas College

CALENDAR EVENTS

REUNIONS

7 September 2022

22 July 2022

Senior Old Boys Day

Class of 2021 Reunion Breakfast

9.30am – 2.00pm

(receive 2021 Annual)

Various locations at Aquinas College (invitations will be posted and

7.30am – 9.00am Churack Pavilion, Aquinas College

emailed) 27 August 2022 25 October 2022

Class of 1997 Reunion

Past College Captains’ Day

Location to be advised

9.30am – 12.15pm 3 September 2022 9 November 2022*

Class of 1977 Reunion

Remembrance Day Assembly

1pm College Tour at Aquinas College

10.25am – 10.50am

2pm - 5pm Function in Waterford Room, Aquinas College

*If you are an Old Aquinian and would like to attend the

17 September 2022

Remembrance Day assembly, please email

Class of 1992 Reunion

events@aquinas.wa.edu.au

Tompkins on Swan, Alfred Cove

OAA EVENTS

8 October 2022 Class of 1972 Reunion 5pm College Tour at Aquinas College 6pm - 9pm Function in Waterford Room, Aquinas College

Wednesday 20 July 2022 OAA Sundowner

Don’t see your reunion listed? Ensure you are following the OAA on

6.00pm – 8.00pm

Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date.

The Shoe, Yagan Square

To ensure you receive an invitation to your reunion, make sure your details are up to date with the College by emailing oaa@aquinas.wa.edu.au

Friday 19 August 2022 OAA Annual Dinner & AGM 6.00pm – AGM – Waterford Room at Aquinas College 6.30pm – 10.30pm – Annual Dinner, Hughes Dining Hall at Aquinas College 19 October 2022

Calling all Old Boy Year Representatives and Captains.

OAA Spring Sundowner

Please make yourself known to our Alumni team if you are able to help

5.30pm onwards

with the planning of your peer year reunion and make sure your details

Location to be advised

are up to date with the College. The College is available to assist in the planning of reunions and other

28 October 2022 PSA Old Boys Golf Day Cottesloe Golf Club To register your interest to be part of the Aquinas team email Mick Stroud edwardhstroud@gmail.com or Phil Willis pwillis1959@gmail.com

alumni events - events@aquinas.wa.edu.au

38 – FISH

Old Aquinians

COLLEGE CUP 1 MAY 2022

Peter Ahern - SKIPPER

Kevin Lynch

Tim Browning

Rich Maher

Kevin Cunningham

Steve Robinson

David Cunningham

Mark Rodoreda

Mark Fitzhardinge

Phil Willis

Ben Fitzhardinge

Mark Fitzhardinge (‘69)

Tony Jack

AC CREW LIST

Peter Ahern (‘74), Rich Maher (‘15), Kevin Cunningham (‘76), Steve Robinson (‘75), David Cunningham (‘05), Mark Rodoreda (‘70), Tim Browning(‘72), Ben Fitzhardinge (‘97), Tony Jack (‘76), Mark Fitzhardinge (‘69), Phil Willis (‘76) . Absent: Kevin Lynch (‘76). Photo courtesy Nim Bhharathhan, Scotch College (‘17)

The College Cup Regatta has been run

great opportunity for Old Boys from a 46

Despite the AC Crew looking resplendent

for over 20 years with teams from the

year spread to meet up with each other

in their new OAA polo shirts, Trinity

Public Schools competing in a fleet of

and compete against the old adversaries

College won the traditional Rum Barrel as

36ft matched boats. The event this year

of the other schools.

the 2022 Best Dressed Team.

was run in very fickle light breezes which

The Old Boys team whilst finishing

The support from the College and the Old

saw only three of the programmed seven

5th, sailed very well dealing with the

Aquinians Association was very much

races completed. That aside, it was a

challenges of the day.

appreciated.

Rich Maher (‘15) – Photo Mark Fitzhardinge

The Aquinas Team in action – Photo RFBYC

David Cunningham (‘05) – Photo Mark Fitzhardinge

39 – magazine of Aquinas College

REUNIONS 1991

1995

1959

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

40 – FISH

Condolences Kevin John Duggan (‘56) passed away

Percy Johnson (‘59) passed away

Br Leo Hassam (Headmaster at Aquinas

4 September 2021.

4 December 2021 after a 12 month

1969 - 1974) passed away 22 March

Philip John Reeve (‘72) passed away

battle with cancer. Family and football

2022. His service was held in the Chapel

6 September 2021.

dominated Percy’s post-school life. Sadly

of St. Thomas Aquinas on 29 March

Don Golding (‘53) passed away 24

his wife Shirley, and one of their sons,

2022. His funeral notice says “Much loved

October 2021.

Gregory, predeceased him. He is survived

and revered Brother, gifted and dedicated

Barrie Buzolic (‘52) passed away

by three other sons – Percy, Robert and

teacher, accomplished watercolour artist,

5 November 2021.

Peter – and a daughter Suzanne, as

keen fisherman and veteran runner.”

John Storey (‘61) passed away

well as 13 grandchildren and 10 great

7 November 2021

grandchildren. After leaving school Percy

Peter Fimmel (‘56) passed away

joined the East Fremantle Football Club

13 November 2021.

and played in the 1957 premiership team.

Trevor Kennedy (‘59) passed away

He was later appointed captain-coach of

28 November 2021 in Sydney, NSW, aged

Swan Districts and played one season

79. Trevor Kennedy was a knock about

with Claremont. He coached both West

cadet reporter on the Albany Advertiser

Perth and South Fremantle.

newspaper before heading east in the

Peter Fuchsbichler (‘70) passed away

early 1960s to leave his mark on the

9 December 2021.

Sydney business and media scene,

Trevor Taplin (‘46) passed away

including acting at one stage as Kerry

22 December 2021.

Packer’s right hand man. He also became

Peter Fennessy (‘55) passed away

an avid collector of Australiana. Earlier

1 January 2022.

this year he sold part of his collection

Daniel Smith (‘54) passed away

Conway Stacey (‘46) passed away

for $7 million, and donated the rest, to

8 January 2022.

28 March 2022.

the National Museum in Canberra. The

Maxwell Paget (‘46) passed away

George Page (’59) passed away

Museum described it as “the greatest

23 January 2022.

12 April 2022.

acquisition in its history”, adding that

John Ahern (‘42) passed away

Graeme Ian Adkins (‘83) passed away

it would “open new vistas and new

30 January 2022.

26 April 2022. Graeme was a gifted

horizons”.

Daniel Alvaro (‘00) passed away

footballer, playing two years in the 1st

4 February 2022.

XVIII and Captained the team in his final

William Williamson (‘53) passed away

year. He was awarded most consistent

5 February 2022. Bill was a devotee of

footballer in both those years. After

hockey and a pioneer of the game at the

nearly 18 years of broking, Graeme

College. Bill played hockey consistently

decided to become a financial planner

in his spare time and even represented

and completed an Advanced Diploma of

Australia in several World Veterans

Financial Planning. He then joined On-

championships.

Track Financial Solutions as a Financial

Gordon Marwick (‘66) passed away

Planner, bringing him much joy.

9 February 2022.

Vernon Ryan (‘57) passed away

Peter McAuliffe (‘53) passed away

22 May 2022.

1 March 2022.

George Brown (‘55) passed away

Des Tighe (‘45) passed away

9 June 2022.

30 March 2022.

41 – magazine of Aquinas College

TERENCE BOURKE (‘43) Terence Bourke (‘43) passed away

Repatriation Hospital, as an anaesthetist.

contributor to the school generously and

9 December 2021, aged 94.Consultant

He loyally served the Royal Perth Hospital

in many ways over several decades. He

Anaesthetist Terence Bourke was born

as an anaesthetist until his retirement in

and Nell have established the Terry Bourke

in Subiaco WA in March 1927 the son of

1992.

Family Bursary, an annual bursary in his

Patrick Matthew Bourke, a farmer from

Terry became a well-known and highly

name that has enabled many young men to

Northam, and Doris Gwendolin (nee) Hall.

skilled practitioner famous for his

experience an Aquinas education, making

He was Captain of Aquinas College in

work ethic and respected widely by the

a significant difference in their lives. He

1943 and 1944 and he proved himself an

community. During the Vietnam War of

exemplified all that every Aquinian should

outstanding scholar and athlete. In the

1971, he was made a Wing Commander

aspire to be – a good man.

1941 Mirror newspaper, he is quoted as

in the Medical Services of the RAAF.

having “simply walked away with the 220

In a civilian capacity, he was involved

metres Under 15”. He was strong in the

with Harold McComb in working on aid

classroom, gaining six distinctions out of

programmes overseas: first in India in

seven subjects in 1943, his leaving year.

1946, then in Afghanistan in 1978 and more

After leaving Aquinas College, Terry studied

recently in Bougainville in 1986. Outside

medicine at Sydney University, graduating

of medicine, Terry has been involved with

in 1949. After graduation he returned to

the World Freedom League, and Lions

Perth where he spent the next few years

International.

holding resident appointments at the Royal

A notable tennis player, Terry also had a

Perth and Princess Margaret Hospitals.

passion for etymology; which made him

He became interested in anaesthetics and

a highly skilled crossword enthusiast!

went to London where he obtained his

For many years, Terry was a collector of

Diploma in Anaesthetics in 1955 and the

antique silver. He married Nell Sheehan in

Fellowship of the Faculty of Anaesthetists

1953 and they have three children. Terry

of the Royal College of Surgeons in 1956.

Burke retired in 1992 and was appointed

Returning home, he was appointed to

Emeritus Consultant Anaesthetist.

the staff of the Royal Perth Hospital,

He always held his time at Aquinas

the Princess Margaret Hospital and the

in tremendous affection and was a

42 – FISH

PETER VAN HELDEN (‘63) The Aquinas College community has been

was a year-round endeavour. Once football

sport. When added to his time as a student

served by some remarkable individuals

season ended, Peter was immediately

and a volunteer, few have dedicated

during it’s long history, but few have

focused on athletics, where his enthusiasm

as much of their lives to the Aquinas

contributed as greatly in recent decades as

and commitment again shone through.

community as the remarkable Mr V. He will

Peter Van Helden (‘63).

For many years, Peter was the “voice of

be missed dearly but his contribution will

Known by thousands of Aquinas students

the inters”, calling the PSA athletics with

never be forgotten.

simply as Mr V, Peter passed away recently

all the passion of an Olympic Games

following a battle with illness. While the

commentator. At the conclusion of

illness took it’s toll, and ultimately Peter’s

athletics, it was time for cricket season,

life, his fighting spirit, the same spirit he

where Peter’s contribution was again

used to inspire generations of Aquinians,

considerable. Whether coaching, umpiring,

was there through to the very end.

or just helping out where he was needed,

Peter arrived at Aquinas College as a Year

Peter was never far from the action.

6 student in 1957. According to his younger

He took great pride in being involved

brother Bill, Peter didn’t have the best start

with successful teams, but for Peter it

as a young student, but coming to Aquinas

was never about personal accolades. He

was a turning point. He thrived under some

knew that sport, especially at a school like

tough discipline, and despite being small in

Aquinas College, was critical in shaping

stature, he found his home on the sports

young men and giving them the tools

field. Peter loved his cricket, football and

needed to navigate the rest of their lives.

athletics, and his time as a student was

This was certainly true for Peter and he

only the beginning of a lifelong contribution

spent decades making sure that others

to Aquinas College sport.

had a similar experience.

After finishing school, Peter went on to

Those who knew him well will

have a successful playing career with East

also no doubt remember some

Fremantle, but he didn’t stay away from

of Mr V’s quirks. While he very

Aquinas for long. After his playing days

much focused on discipline and

were over, Peter returned to the school,

hard work, Peter loved a joke

initially as a volunteer, no doubt inspired to

and was a masterful storyteller.

continue the Aquinas College tradition that

His memory of historical events

had helped him so much.

and sports statistics gave him

Peter’s contribution to Aquinas College,

a deep well of anecdotes and

and particularly the football, cricket and

he would no doubt scoff at the

athletics programs is difficult to truly

modern day reliance on internet

quantify. As Coach of the 8As football team

search engines. Not only could

for over a decade, Peter was often the

he recall scores, results and

first Football Coach that Aquinas students

events with startling accuracy,

would play for, and Peter took great pride in

but he could weave them

setting the standards of discipline, courage

together into a narrative that

and hard work that have always typified

kept many entertained over the

Aquinas sport. He also had a great eye

years.

for talent and would often point out some

Peter’s official involvement at

potential new star to his great friend and

Aquinas came to an end in 2017,

long-time 1st XVIII Coach Peter Spencer.

capping a remarkable 25 year

Peter’s sporting commitment to Aquinas

commitment to Aquinas College

43 – magazine of Aquinas College

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Year 3, 4 & 5 for 2023 NEW CLASSES AVAILABLE! Enquire now Aquinas College Mt Henry Rd • Salter Point • Western Australia Locked Bag 11, Bentley Delivery Centre, Bentley WA 6983, Australia Telephone: +61 8 9450 0600 • Facsimile: +61 8 9313 1901 www.aquinas.wa.edu.au

CRICOS Code: 00428E

enrolments@aquinas.wa.edu.au