Lu
Luceat Luceat
4
FROM THE EXECUTIVE PRINCIPAL
5-8
VCE RESULTS 2024
A wrap-up of all the results from the Class of 2024, including the top 26 highachievers.
9 STAFF PROFILE
Head of Experiential Education, Lachlan Groh, shares his passion for outdoor learning.
10-11
MEET THE CAPTAINS
The 2025 College captains share their aspirations for their new leadership role.
12-13
BEST IN PLAY
The new Junior School playground at the Pakenham Campus has scooped a couple of prestigious awards.
14-19
GAME ON
The power and popularity of sport at Beaconhills, including the latest on a new basketball pathway program.
20
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
Berwick Campus Senior Chaplain Revd Kathy Mildred prays for peace this year.
22-23
ALUMNI REUNIONS
Photos from reunion events for the Class of 2014 and the Class of 2023.
24-25
ALUMNI BREAKFAST SERIES
Three exciting events are planned for 2025 with an impressive lineup of alumni guest speakers.
26
LONG-SERVING STAFF FAREWELL
Three long-serving staff members farewelled at a retirement afternoon tea.
Front cover: Congratulations to the Class of 2024.
Back cover: Pakenham
Campus Principal
Sarah Rudiger congratulates the campus
Dux Myeisha Avenido
Beaconhills College acknowledges the Wurundjeri and Bunurong –Boon Wurrung peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this land on which our College is built.
27
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
We catch up on news from three Beaconhills alumni.
28
BLESSING OF THE BUGLE
The Beaconhills Army Cadet Unit has a shiny new addition to its ranks.
29
THE IMPACT OF GIVING
How donations to the Beacon of Hope Foundation are making a real difference.
30-31
THANK YOU EVENT
A special event thanks the many generous philanthropists who have supported the mission of the Beacon of Hope Foundation.
VCE RESULTS 2024
26 STUDENTS WITH AN ATAR OF 90+ 220
53% OR 115 STUDENTS IN THE TOP 30% OF THE STATE
3 PERFECT 50 SUBJECT SCORES
19 SUBJECTS WITH SCORES 40+
70 STUDENTS ACHIEVED AN ATAR OF 80+
Welcome to our first edition of Lux Luceat for 2025. I hope you have had a wonderful break and precious time with friends and family, and are looking forward to an exciting year ahead.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank our families for your ongoing support and contribution you make to the life of our community school. The partnership between families and schools recognises and reflects our shared perspectives on the importance of a high-quality education for students, as they progress toward a fulfilling pathway beyond school.
To our Class of 2024, well done on a successful final year of schooling. Our Class of 2024 epitomises everything to which we aspire for our Beaconhills students. Their hard work and contribution across such a broad range of areas is an absolute credit to them, our College and their families. Our Year 12 students achieved impressive results across a broad range of subjects. A special congratulations to our College Dux Charlotte Moseley (Berwick Campus) and Pakenham Campus Dux Myeisha Avenido for not only their incredible achievements, but also the effort they have shown throughout their time at Beaconhills. We look forward to seeing our Class of 2024 at the 1 Year Reunion later in the year; to welcome them as our new alumni and encourage them to maintain their connection to our community.
It is our aspiration that students at Beaconhills are here to learn - and ready to learn. This focus recognises the importance of our students working hard to find their passions and interests to realise their own personal future pathway. It is through our students being motivated to ‘give it a go’ and to try new things that
Stephen McGinley Executive Principal
new possibilities are revealed.
So as the new year starts, I encourage all students to make the most of the opportunities on offer that are only possible due to the generosity of their families.
Wishing you all an exciting and fulfilling year ahead and thank you for being part of the Beaconhills College community.
53% of students recorded ATARs in the top 30 per cent of the state.
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2024
Beaconhills College celebrated a strong set of 2024 VCE results, with more than half of students who obtained an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) represented in the top 30 per cent of the state’s results.
In total there were 26 students across the Berwick and Pakenham campuses with ATARs of 90 and higher, 70 students with 80+ and 115 students with 70+.
College and Berwick Campus Dux was Charlotte Moseley (99.4 ATAR) with a perfect study score of 50 in her Media subject. Pakenham Campus Dux was Myeisha Avenido with a 98.2 ATAR.
Berwick Campus Year 11
student Manuth Galabada Widanarachchige added two more perfect subject scores to the results with a 50 in both Physics and Mathematical Methods.
Executive Principal Stephen McGinley congratulated all students from the Class of 2024 and described the results as a “fantastic testament to the Beaconhills College model of education”.
Myeisha’s 98.2
College and Berwick Campus Dux Charlotte Moseley was “shocked and excited” when she saw her 99.4 ATAR at 7am on results day. Charlotte chose an eclectic mix of VCE subjects; Literature, Media Studies, Visual Communication and Design, General Mathematics, Biology and Psychology (studied in Year 11). She believes that deliberately choosing subjects she loved translated to good results and advised next year’s students to do the same.
“I would say definitely pick the subjects you enjoy doing and that you are passionate about,” Charlotte said, adding that she also tried to break her studies into “little steps and achievable goals”
Pakenham Campus Dux Myeisha Avenido’s hard work during her VCE paid off with an ATAR of 98.2.
Despite English not being her strongest subject at the end of Year 9, she credits her English teacher Jennifer Kyval for supporting her in the subject and encouraging her to study Literature.
She advised Year 12s to “look at the study points in the study designs” to help break things down into what they knew and where they needed to focus their efforts.”
Manuth’s perfect 50s
Berwick Campus student Manuth Galabada Widanarachchige begins Year 12 in 2025 with two perfect VCE study scores to his name, in Physics and Mathematical Methods.
He kept a consistent study routine of completing two practice exam questions every day for 20-25 minutes.
Manuth also found time to volunteer for three hours each Saturday at his local Salvos store because he wanted to “give back to society” and gain some extra skills.
“I really enjoy talking to customers from all walks of life, and helping them with whatever they need,” he said, adding that he also likes helping students in his year level with the occasional tricky maths puzzle.
While he is still weighing up his career choices, Manuth is leaning towards the sciences, perhaps mechatronics engineering.
Charlotte’s 99.4
MORNING TEA CELEBRATION
Students, College staff and families gathered together at a special morning tea in January to celebrate the hard work of some of our top-scoring VCE students from the Class of 2024.
THE TOP 26
Congratulations to the following 26 students from the Berwick and Pakenham campuses who achieved ATARs of 90 and higher.
LACHLAN GROH
Lachlan Groh first joined Beaconhills College in 2006 as a Year 7 student at the Pakenham Campus. Today, his passion for outdoor learning is reflected in his role as Head of Experiential Education.
Mr Groh enjoyed all of the opportunities he had as a student at the College and reflects on how the cocurricular activities he was involved in shaped his love for experiential learning.
He remembers his trip to South Africa with World Challenge in Year 10 as a standout moment that solidified his aspirations of becoming a physical education and outdoor education teacher. He also fondly recalls the impactful role that his teachers had, especially Peter Ashmore and Sam Watson.
When he returned to the College after his studies, Mr Groh was first employed as an outdoor guide in the Beacon Explorers Program. He later became the Head of Teaching and Learning for Beacon Explorers, before moving into the Deputy Head of Year 9 role at the Berwick Campus after five years.
“I enjoyed the opportunity to work with Yvonne Ashmore (Head of Wellbeing) and the wellbeing team at the College to develop initiatives to improve student wellbeing at the College,” he said.
In his current role as Head of Experiential Education, Mr Groh oversees the Beacon Explorers Program, a sequential outdoor education program for Early Years - Year 10, along with co-curricular activities such as cadets, equestrian, snowsports, and tours and cultural experiences related to the Languages Program.
“The program is centred around students’ passions and interests and about pursuing those passions beyond the classroom,” he said.
Head of Experiential Education Lachlan Groh is empowering students to pursue their passions.
Even after going on over 15 international trips, Mr Groh said “you never lose sight of how amazing it is to experience the students’ reactions, even just their smiles going through the airport.”
Despite the demands of his busy role, Mr Groh finds time to enjoy life with his family, including his oneyear-old son, Raff. He enjoys surfing on weekends and going out to restaurants and AFL games.
MEET THE CAPTAINS
Berwick Campus
As a College captain, I aim to be approachable and fun, someone you can easily talk to and rely on. I believe school should be a place where everyone feels valued, supported, and excited to learn. My goal is to create an inclusive environment where every student has the chance to thrive, whether that’s through academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, or simply feeling connected to our community. Together, we can bring fresh ideas to life and ensure everyone has endless opportunities to grow and succeed. Let’s make this year unforgettable by working together to make our school the best it can be!
Kizmin Baker
I’m thrilled for the opportunity to serve our school, making sure to always put the best interests of students first and fostering a positive, fun community. A good captain should be approachable and open to discussion, and I aspire to be exactly that, while growing as a leader and showing my cohort how committed I am to the role. I look forward to working closely with my fellow captains to build on the incredible work of last year’s team, and my goal is to make 2025 the best final year of mine at Beaconhills.
Sophia D’Agostino
With all honesty, I have three main things on my agenda as a College captain; a promise, a wish, and a dream. Next year, I can wholeheartedly say that I’ll be an ongoing role model for my peers, maintaining an exuberant attitude that I hope will spread to others. On top of that, I hope to encourage greater communication throughout the school. Everyone has unique and brilliant ideas, so why not put them to good use? This includes serving as a conduit for these suggestions and prompting everyone to have a say. To summarise, my aim is to be a leader who people can trust, a leader that epitomises the blend of morality, kindness and determination, and a leader that people look up to and feel safe around.
Manuth Galabada Widanarachchige
I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead our College community as a captain in 2025. My vision for the year is to foster an environment where we all grow together, support one another, and make this a truly memorable time for everyone. I aim to continue the legacy of our 2024 captains, who left a high standard to continue in this coming year. I hope to represent our College with pride and shine light on the many talents and honourable programs students complete, including the Beacon of Hope Program, SEISA sports and incredible art projects. I believe that each student brings unique strengths, and I am so intrigued and excited to watch everyone grow as individuals, find their passion and feel supported in reaching new stages of their schooling journey.
Olivia Sutton
The new College captains explain what they hope to bring to their leadership role in 2025.
Pakenham Campus
As an incoming College captain, I am proud to be a part of this incredible College community. I am committed to serving as a strong and effective conduit between students and teachers, ensuring that everyone's voices are heard and valued. I believe in fostering a positive, inclusive environment where every student feels empowered to reach their potential. With the support of my peers and teachers, I look forward to guiding the College towards continued success, creating lasting memories, and making this year one of growth, collaboration, and achievement for all. Together, we can make a difference!
Lachlan Chase
As a College captain, I aim to lead with integrity, respect and compassion. I hope to inspire others by listening to and advocating for all voices, ensuring every student feels included and supported. I want to create a positive school environment where we acknowledge diversity, encourage personal growth, and strive towards success. I want to lead by example, showing that leadership is all about collaboration, respect, and uplifting others. My goal is to ensure that every student feels supported and excited to experience a year of enjoyment and recreation. I’m looking forward to being one of your College captains for 2025 and hope you all have a great year ahead.
Alfie Howat
I am delighted to be a College captain for 2025! I aspire to be a leader who champions diversity and inclusivity, celebrating the unique personalities that make our school environment vibrant. My goal is to create an environment where students from Little Beacons to our graduating students are able to be seen, heard, and valued. I believe that our differences are what makes our College so valuable, and by fostering a culture of respect and compassion, we can build a supportive school community. Above all, I hope that I am an approachable and amiable leader!
Yashodha Kahanda Gamage
This year, I would love to inspire and motivate students to grow and learn so that we can all discover new activities and opportunities to reach our full potential. I would like to ensure that every student feels welcomed, valued, and safe within the school community. I would love to be a friendly face and someone who students and staff feel comfortable approaching. I want to dedicate effort to making the final year for Year 12s a memorable and fulfilling experience. I hope to advocate for eco-friendly initiatives to reduce our environmental impacts and promote sustainable practices, so that we can show our lovely planet the respect it deserves!
Alora Palfreyman
The new adventure playground at the Pakenham Campus Junior School has won two Victorian awards for its design.
GAME
THE POWER AND POPULARITY OF SPORT AT BEACONHILLS
GAME ON
Australia is known as a ‘sports mad’ nation and this was reflected in the grassroots enthusiasm for all things sport at Beaconhills College last year.
The College has a proud sporting history of individual and team achievements. Last year saw record student participation in carnival events such as athletics, swimming and cross-country.
This year the College will launch the Beaconhills Basketball Pathway, the newest addition to the extensive suite of sporting opportunities across both campuses.
THE BENEFITS OF SPORT
We asked the 2025 College sport captains about how sports involvement has personally benefited them.
William Pettitt
Golf and football have taught me many different lessons about what it is to be patient and show grit through the tough times that arise frequently. It has shown me that it is important to persist in order to achieve the goals that you have set out for yourself.
Leadership in football is a valuable asset as it can shape the team for great success by helping everyone feel more motivated and driven.
Anastasia Gnjidic
Basketball has greatly impacted my life and is the sport I enjoy the most. I’ve been playing for years and it’s taught me so much beyond just the game. It has helped me develop my leadership skills because it is a team sport and often requires players to step up and further support others and lead by example on the court. Selfdiscipline is another big thing I’ve learnt from basketball. Whether it’s sticking to training schedules or practising my skills, it has taught me the importance of consistency and hard work. Most importantly basketball has taught me how to work as part of a team.
Noah Morrell
Sport has significantly enhanced my leadership, selfdiscipline, and teamwork skills.
Playing football taught me to lead by example and make decisions under pressure. The commitment required fosters self-discipline, while collaborating with teammates builds trust and communication. These experiences translate into valuable life skills, shaping me as a more effective individual.
Shaylan Cole
I am passionate about dance, calisthenics and running. I dedicated two full years to training every day in ballet, while also exploring other dance genres. Calisthenics is both a team and individual sport. I am constantly upskilling myself to further improve, teaching me the value of self-discipline and teamwork
Self-discipline has been a cornerstone of my journey, cultivated through years of training and competition. As I trained as a preprofessional, managing my time effectively, staying focused, and setting clear goals were all essential habits that I continue to apply in every area of my life.
50+
Anastasia Gnjidic / Berwick
Noah Morrell / Pakenham
Shaylan Cole / Pakenham
William Pettitt / Berwick
TOP OF THEIR GAME
Beaconhills College has many talented sports enthusiasts among its students. We profile just a selection of sporting success stories.
Naveen – volleyball
Year 11, Berwick Campus
Naveen started volleyball in 2021, successfully trialling for the under 14s indoor Victorian state team, making the under 15s team the next year and competing in the National Australian Youth Volleyball Championships.
He also tried out for beach volleyball in 2022 and earned a place in the under 16 boys Victorian team in March 2023, competing in Queensland. He was awarded Volleyball Victoria under 16s Most Valuable Player.
Last year Naveen and Pakenham Campus student Pheonix joined forces to play in the Volleyball Victoria Beach Schools Cup in March, placing fourth. Naveen was also selected for the Victorian State Beach Volleyball team and competed that same month in Queensland.
After beach volleyball, Naveen returned last year to indoor volleyball, moving to Heidelberg Volleyball Club where he was part of their Premier League Men's 1 state league team (the highest division in the Victorian League). The team earned the title of Victorian Volleyball League 2024 Champions.
He has now been selected in the under 18s Victorian Youth Beach State Team Squad to train and at time of print, was hoping for state selection.
Anannya – cricket
Year 7, Pakenham Campus
Anannya was selected to play in the School Sport Australia 12 Years and Under Championship held in Adelaide from 30 November to 6 December.
The leg-spin bowler started the event well, but suffered from a finger dislocation during a pregame warm-up.
Anannya is a talented player with several years of cricketing success. Earlier in 2024, she was part of the championship-winning side in the All Girls Cricket Competition (AGCC) under 12s at the Victorian Metropolitan Cricket Union (VMCU) Carnival. She also won a premiership at one of her clubs, reached the finals at another club and won the best all-rounder award.
As well as being a leg-spin bowler, Anannya also bats in the top order. Her idol is Meg Lanning, and she’s also a big fan of Ellyse Perry.
Year 10,
Berwick Campus
Anique has been involved in shooting for two years and is part of the Melbourne Sporting Rifle Club (MSRC) and also the youth training scheme at Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (Victoria) Springvale.
She, along with student Daniel from the Pakenham Campus, competed in the Junior Nationals in Queensland in July and also in the Junior Victorian competition in the second week of November.
She placed in the top three in a number of events in the nationals, taking first place in field rifle (under 15s). In the state competition she was first overall in the under 18s and first overall in the state.
Anique said what she loves most about shooting is “all the people that you meet along the way, all the friends you make and all the new things you learn about the sport”.
“Shooting is a sport that lots of people look down on as being a bad sport and unsafe, but when you have amazing coaches and friends who are here to help and keep everyone safe, it is lots of fun.”
Elijah – basketball Year 9, Pakenham Campus
Elijah had a remarkable year in basketball in 2024. He played for the Casey Cavaliers U 14 Boys 1 which had a string of wins and were champions of the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL), finishing as the top under 14 team in Australia.
Adding to these achievements, Elijah received the Coach's Award for Most Valuable Player, recognising his leadership and maturity both on and off the court. On top of that, Elijah has been selected by Basketball Victoria for their State Performance Program, as one of only three 13 year olds in Vic Metro.
In football, Elijah played as a Division 1 representative for the South Eastern Junior Basketball interleague last year. His under 13 team at Officer Junior Football Club clinched the 2024 Premiership flag, and he was awarded Best on Ground in the grand final, the club’s Best and Fairest for 2024 and the League Best and Fairest 2024.
Anique Wylie – sporting shooter
Year 9, Berwick Campus
Liam has been kicking a soccer ball since was a toddler so it was no surprise to his parents that at 11 years of age, Liam’s weekly routine would involve training or playing daily with numerous soccer clubs, academies and developing his skills with Football Victoria’s Skill Acquisition Phase (SAP) Program.
From 2023 to 2024, Liam continued his football training with a workload that often required five days of training, with a match day on day six!
He played for Malvern Football Club in the Junior NPL league as one of only four underage players in a squad of 20.
His greatest achievement to date came in October when he was selected for Melbourne Victory's A-League Team Academy in the under 14 squad.
The pre-season started in November with a huge step-up in his training regime. In 2025, he is excited to play football for one of the most successful clubs in the country.
SEISA INDIGENOUS ROUND SPORTING SCHOLARS
A SEISA Indigenous round is set to become a permanent fixture on the SEISA calendar after its successful inauguration in August 2024.
The new event in the SEISA intermediate and senior competition was led by Beaconhills College’s Head of Indigenous Initiatives, Lynette George (Birra), who was thrilled to see other SEISA schools embrace the idea.
The occasion was marked with smoking ceremonies, led by Pallyan (son of Wurundjeri Elder Murrundindi) at the Pakenham Campus and Bunurong Elder Aunty Sonia Weston at the Berwick Campus.
Ms George said the elders were “really impressed” with the respectful behaviour of all the students who participated.
She said plans this year include incorporating Indigenous round jerseys for players.
Senior School students are invited to apply for a sporting scholarship under the Beaconhills College Senior School Scholarship Program.
Sporting scholarships fall under the ‘general excellence’ category of this program.
Applications are now open to new or current students starting Years 10 and 11 in 2026. For details, scan the QR code below or visit the Scholarships page on the Beaconhills College website (under Enrolments).
Applications close 14 March 2025.
Liam – soccer
2025 is well on its way –how quickly the holidays end and the ‘busyness’ of life kicks in. Students are back, with new uniforms, new books, new hopes and new dreams. The excitement on faces as old friends reconnect and new friends are made is one of the best parts of school life.
Part of our mission at Beaconhills is to be a place of peace for all members of our community. Regardless of faith or no faith, culture, race or worldviews, our school is like a beautiful botanic garden with all types of plants and trees growing together in harmony.
We create this space because we are followers of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. Jesus, whose birth we celebrated just a few weeks ago, is our model of sacrificial love and care. He cured the sick, included the outcast, befriended the lonely, cast out evil spirits and preached love and forgiveness for all.
A PRAYER FOR PEACE
His example shows us the right way to live too. We can include all people, forgive others (and ourselves) when mistakes are made and be agents of peace in a troubled world. Jesus’ message of love and salvation gives us the comfort of knowing we can be right with God – right here, right now. With this certainty in mind, we can live with hope and joy.
I pray that this year will be a year of peace for all members of our community, and that we continue to build a community that honours Jesus and cares in his name.
Revd Kathy Mildred Senior Chaplain, Berwick Campus
HAPPENINGS AROUND OUR COMMUNITY
ALUMNI
ALUMNI REUNIONS
CLASS OF 2014 - 10 YEAR REUNION AT HOLM PARK, BEACONSFIELD
2025 REUNIONS
Friday 28 March Class of 2005 - 20 Year Reunion
Friday 30 May Class of 2020 - 5 Year Reunion
Friday 17 October Class of 2024 - 1 Year Reunion
Friday 14 November Class of 2015 - 10 Year Reunion
Keep an eye on the Beaconhills Alumni Facebook group for updates or email alumni@beaconhills.vic.edu.au 1 YEAR REUNION – CLASS OF 2023 AT
ALUMNI BREAKFAST SERIES
The successful Alumni Breakfast Series events return to Beaconhills College in 2025 with an exciting lineup of speakers. Each event has a different theme, with alumni speakers invited to share their inspirational stories along with tips for students aspiring to similar career paths.
Planned for terms 1, 2 and 3, each event includes breakfast and runs from 7.45-8.45am.
Term 1
Pakenham Campus
Theme: Performing arts. Friday 21 March
Speakers: Phil Roberts (Class of 2015) and Roxanne Tamlin (Class of 2013)
MC: Dr Chris McGillen, Director of Performing Arts
Roberts
A filmmaker with seven years’ experience in the film and media industry, Phil completed a Diploma, Advanced Diploma and Bachelor 3rd and 4th Year (Honours) at Swinburne University of Technology after graduating.
He has worked in a multitude of crew roles including directing, writing, producing, editing, 1st and 2nd AD (assistant director), script supervisor and continuity.
Last year he completed working as 1st AD on It’s Showtime, Dan!, a comingof-age comedy film due for release later this year, about a down-on-hisluck character who just wants to be an actor. He has written and directed a short film also due for release this
Phil
Roxanne Tamlin
Roxanne completed a Certificate of Dance and Bachelor in Acting after graduation and has begun building a versatile CV in performing arts.
Some of her credits include Nancy Wake in the Australian Cast recording of The White Mouse (2016), Puck in A Midsummer Night’s Dream (2018), lead performer at Witches in Britches Theatre Restaurant (2019 to 2021), and all of the young women in a 3-hander (three character) version of Women of Troy (2022).
In 2023, Roxanne was a Take the Mic Australia finalist at Chapel off Chapel and also played the villain character and co-produced a short fantasy film called Legacy, working with partner and Beaconhills alum Phil Roberts. Roxanne also played the lead female in It’s Showtime, Dan!
Term 2
Berwick Campus
Theme: Business. Friday 23 May.
Speakers: Cait Bransgrove (Class of 2013) and Dylan Norrington (Class of 2017)
MC: Rodney Gonsalves, Berwick Campus commerce teacher
Cait Bransgrove
Cait Bransgrove is an awardwinning finance broker, Director of Home of Inspire and the host of the popular finance podcast Craving a Saving. As a busy mum of two, Cait is passionate about making finance easy to understand for everyone - especially young people. She knows that learning about money early on can make a big difference, and she’s dedicated to providing educational content to help others feel confident managing their finances. Cait’s goal is to teach the basics in a way that’s fun and relatable, giving young people the tools they need to make smart money choices and pave the path to achieve their property and money goals.
Dylan Norrington
Dylan Norrington is a skilled photographer/videographer who studied live production at RMIT after graduation. He has worked as a freelance technical co-ordinator for Beaconhills College, as well as an audio visual and sound and light technician. In 2019, he founded Norrington Media which offers services ranging from corporate events, business and training videos to sports and wedding photography.
He says it has been a privilege to return to the College behind the camera under his own brand Norrington Media, capturing the school's special moments, from events to milestones.
Term 3
Pakenham Campus
Theme: Community health and service
Details of guest speakers will be announced during the year and published in the winter issue of Lux Luceat magazine.
LONG-SERVING STAFF FAREWELLED
THE COLLEGE BIDS A FOND FAREWELL TO THREE VALUED STAFF MEMBERS.
The College paid tribute to three long-serving staff members at a retirement afternoon tea held at the Berwick Campus on Tuesday 10 December.
The retirees include Pakenham Campus Technology teacher Ed Antoniotti (25 years), English teacher and Campus Timetabler Werner Rozario (13 years) and Gardens and Grounds Manager Roger Churchill (20 years).
Ed Antoniotti joined the College back in 2000 as a Junior School teacher and taught sport from Prep to Year 3. From 2008 to 2024 he taught mainly Technology Systems and Design in Middle School, along with Year 7 Maths and Science. He was also Middle School Head of Leaver House, 2008-2023.
He remembers working with a “fantastic team” in Middle School Technology.
“I learnt so many new skills, encouraged many students to continue with the subject
in Senior School and had a lot of fun seeing students develop and thrive in this area,” Ed said.
“Leading a successful Leaver House team over many years has been very satisfying. Also moving from Junior School to the Middle School was a wonderful change that refuelled my desire to teach.”
He now plans to enjoy attending his grandchildren’s school events and do an aroundAustralia caravanning trip.
Werner Rozario has taught Senior School English, along with English as an Additional Language (EAL). He was a Creese House tutor for 12 years and did two stints as Campus Timetabler.
He said watching international students develop their English skills has been particularly satisfying.
“Some of the international students come into Year 10 with very basic English skills
and grow over the years to become articulate users of the language by the time they reach Year 12.”
Like Ed, Werner hopes to spend his first year of retirement travelling then “take it easy and do some gardening”.
While Roger was unable to attend the afternoon tea, his two decades of service were highlighted in the winter edition of Lux Luceat magazine last year.
Ed Antoniotti, left, and Werner Rozario.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Sara Vojdani
Sara Vojdani (Class of 2019, Berwick Campus) has graduated from the University of Melbourne, studying a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) majoring in English Studies.
She will now study the Master of Philosophy in English Studies at the University of Cambridge, enrolled at Newnham College. Sara was awarded the Ray and Edith Bennett Travelling Scholarship through the University of Melbourne. She plans to focus her studies at Cambridge on eighteenthcentury women’s literature, crediting her Beaconhills Literature teacher Martin Toman for helping inspire her “profound love of literature and academic writing”.
Llewellyn Moore
Llewellyn (Louie) Moore (Class of 2019, Pakenham Campus) was well known at the College for his work in the student light and sound team, as well as many hours spent volunteering in Community Theatre.
Louie has gone on to continue working in the audio visual events industry. He now works full time for Insight Systems at Kew’s Methodist Ladies College and casually for the College with external hires or major College events.
At Beaconhills, Louie has enjoyed designing the lighting for major productions such as Shrek the Musical and Peter Pan Jr as well as dance concerts and other events. He also spends his spare time giving back to the community through his involvement with Upstage Theatre Company.
Louie looks forward to marrying his fiance Tori Lewis (Class of 2018, Pakenham Campus) in August 2025. They connected in community theatre after Tori graduated from the College.
Elliot Perez
Elliot Perez (Class of 2021, Pakenham Campus), a keen student of Japanese at Beaconhills, finally had the chance in December to put his language skills to the test. In what was his first overseas trip, he travelled through Japan for a month.
“To finally be here chasing a passion that began in Japanese class really is a dream come true,” Elliot said.
Elliot is currently halfway through a double degree studying environmental engineering and science. He said he was excited for whatever turns the path takes towards a future in sustainability.
BLESSING OF THE BUGLE
The Beaconhills Army Cadet Unit has a shiny new addition to its ranks in the form of a unit bugle.
CDT Nathan Ramage, from the Class of 2024, sparked the original idea of purchasing a bugle in a conversation with the Unit Executive Officer Revd Steve Terrell.
Revd Terrell said they talked about how good it would be for the unit to have its own bugle, particularly to use in ceremonies such as Anzac Day.
However, after CDT Ramage made some initial enquiries, it looked like buying a new instrument was going to be a little too expensive for the unit’s budget.
Fortunately the College’s Director of Performing Arts, Dr Chris McGillen, ‘caught wind’ of the idea and came to the
rescue with a brand-new bugle, now on permanent loan to the unit.
“We decided it would be good to celebrate the handover of the bugle with a formal parade, and then someone suggested it would be good to have the bugle blessed, especially given we are a Christian college unit,” Revd Terrell said.
In his Army Cadets’ capacity as Victorian Deputy Brigade Chaplain, Revd Terrell offered to write and conduct the blessing.
And so the bugle was formally blessed at the end of the unit’s regular parade year and just in time for Remembrance Day. CDT Ramage had the honour of playing the new bugle at the Pakenham service, in what was a fitting end to his time with the Cadet Unit before graduation.
“WE DECIDED IT WOULD BE GOOD TO CELEBRATE THE HANDOVER OF THE BUGLE WITH A FORMAL PARADE”...
THE IMPACT OF GIVING
Thank you to our corporate donors and the entire College community for helping change the lives of those in need.
The Beacon of Hope Foundation, established in 2020, advances education through scholarships and bursaries, capital developments and by meeting the needs of communities in Australia and overseas. It is run by a Board of Directors and has three funds:
1. COMMUNITY EDUCATION SUPPORT FUND (CESF)
This fund provides scholarships and bursaries to support College families in significant need, or students unable to access a Beaconhills education. Our list of generous donors include College staff, who have given to this fund since it launched in 2015. For 2024, we thank the following donors:
Beacon of Hope Foundation
College community donations
Scholarships
• Stephen Creese
• Beaconhills College staff.
Student bursaries
• Campion Education
• Howlett family
• Beaconhills College staff
2. COMMUNITY RELIEF FUND
Supporting all of the College’s local and international programs - from BeaconMeals donations to help combat food insecurity to school programs in Bangladesh and Timor-Leste.
For 2024, we again thank our College community for their generous support of these initiatives. There were numerous fundraising events throughout the year including Parents and Friends-run events, athletics and swimming carnivals days and the Charity Gala (for TimorLeste and Bangladesh). We thank all those who generously contributed in various ways, as well as:
• The Somerville Group Pty Ltd ($5000 donation for Bangladesh).
3. BUILDING FUND
The Building Fund is used exclusively for advancing education through new buildings or building maintenance/ upgrades.
We are profoundly grateful to parents, staff and students –including the Beacon of Hope Student Committee – for raising tens of thousands of dollars to support the many citizenship and service programs during 2024. These include causes such as Motor Neurone Disease, Relay For Life and the Hope for Christmas Appeal. We also pay tribute to our Year 8 students who completed their Certificate of Excellence in 2024, volunteering for 20 hours of community service work.
JOIN THE BOARD
The Beacon of Hope Foundation Board seeks forward-thinking people from diverse backgrounds, with a range of skills and experience in philanthropy, to serve on the Beacon of Hope Foundation Board. For more details, go to beaconhills.vic.edu. au/community/our-foundation/ to express your interest.
THANK YOU EVENT
A special Thank You Event on Thursday 5 December paid tribute to the generous philanthropists who have supported the work of the Beacon of Hope Foundation.
Donors, corporate sponsors, community partners, volunteers, students and College leaders were among the guests who gathered in the Tony Sheumack Centre for Performing Arts to hear about the impact of the Foundation’s mission.
The event outlined the achievements of the Foundation’s three arms; the Community Relief Fund which delivers support programs locally and internationally, the Community Education Support Fund (CESF) providing bursaries and scholarships and the Building Fund which helps build and enhance College facilities.
Foundation Company
Secretary David Young thanked College staff and community donors who had generously supported the CESF since its inception in 2015.
Since that year, the fund has granted means-tested bursaries totalling $168,000, which have helped 23 students whose families may have experienced hardships such as sudden loss of a parent, health-related stress and/or trauma.
Foundation Chair Kimberley Flanagan spoke of the importance of education and thanked everyone who had generously supported the Scholarship Program, enabling the Foundation to offer two Senior School scholarships in 2024.
Sarah Dyce, Head of Citizenship and Service, outlined some of the substantial achievements of the College’s service programs, supported by the Community Relief Fund. They include ongoing connections with schools in Timor-Leste
and Bangladesh, along with local initiatives such as BeaconMeals, helping provide disability employment while addressing food insecurity in our region.
Graduating students Dylan Crossley and Bridie Drane-Johnson spoke passionately about their experiences as Citizenship and Service captains, while Year 10 student Olyvia described the life-changing impact of Beacon of Hope fundraising for the people of Timor-Leste.
Guest speaker Tony Kent
also described how donations to the charity had helped redevelop the school at West Ahmedpur in remote Bangladesh, which opened in 2023.
College Board Chair David Moseley said the Beacon of Hope Foundation would “continue to build on our culture of compassion that reaches far beyond the walls of our College”.
Beacon of Hope Foundation
Beacon of Hope Foundation event says ‘thank you’.
Means-tested bursaries totalling $168,000, which have helped 23 students.
