Roll Call September 2013

Lasallian

Roll Call September 2013

A PUBLICATION FOR THE DE LA SALLE COLLEGE COMMUNITY — MALVERN Print Post Approved No PP 381667/00102

Contents

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Acting Principal’s Column College News New Principal Academic Awards Philippine Exchange De La Salle Music Market Kitchen Letter From Phnom Penh High Flyer It All Just Adds Up! Ashton Agar Our New Provincial Working on his French De La Salle Sport 10 Year Reunion 20 Year Reunion Old Collegians Football Where Are They Now?

Letters to the Editor It was a real buzz seeing the photo of our “trendy little clique” in the last issue of Roll Call — it’s hard to imagine we were ever that young and well-groomed! You can tell by our clothes and glasses that this was the beginning of the Beatles era, and still in the Buddy Holly phase. It was the following year (1964) that The Beatles came to Australia — though by then I was under “house arrest” in the Dominican novitiate at East Camberwell. I have absolutely no memory of the photo being taken, but strong memories of the retreat itself and our general antics, conducted by a very idiosyncratic Jesuit. However, I’m fairly confident we were smoking “Cool”! Advertising worked with us in a big way. I still have a scribbled note from James Spence whinging that we had to wear our suits to Mass.

There’s an interesting story about why that year the retreat was, for the first time, with the Jesuits at Watsonia – and not at the usual Franciscan retreat house of La Verna, Kew. I’m afraid we cruelled our pitch at La Verna the previous year (1962 — our first year Matric retreat). Jack Huston recently told me he was one of the two students partly responsible — he and another student (Michael James) let off some fireworks in the La Verna garden during the night — I presume the retreat must have been in November, close to Guy Fawkes night (“cracker night”). An apparently shell-shocked Franciscan gave us a tirade in the chapel the next morning saying, “I’ll make sure that the boys from De La Salle will never do another retreat here”.

I later managed to re-establish contact with Jack Huston and James Spence. I spent about a week with James when he was dying, and subsequently went to Melbourne to “preside” at his funeral. Jack Huston and I still have regular contact. I’ve always regretted not being able to track down John Hanrahan. He joined the De La novitiate after Matric, but didn’t stay long. And by the time I was “free” again to re-connect with friends, the trail had gone cold and we (Dominican students) were in Canberra and revelling in the freedom of our university days at the ANU — with sundry other religious brothers and nuns in training. The other person who was part of our cohort was Mick Ashford, who also died about the same time as James Spence. I think he had ongoing contact with the Old Colls through the football club.

John Baron

New Book on Mannix

In July this year the world media went crazy over Ashton Agar (2011). I was overseas at the time, but I knew from text messages from home that Ashton’s Test Debut at Trent Bridge was turning out to be nothing less than spectacular. However it was only when I caught a glimpse of the BBC World News that I realised just how big Ashton’s story was. The news of his record-breaking innings of 98 as 11th man had gone viral, grabbing front page headlines in the cricketing world. “The Backyard Belter” and “Natural Born Predator”, screamed out from the front pages. Ashton Agar was a household name. Ashton’s parents, John and Sonia, were in England for the Test and in this issue they talk to Roll Call about the Ashton phenomena. Also in this issue we introduce the College’s first lay Principal appointed by the Board.

Our September cover story features Peter Houlihan, who will commence his term as Principal in 2014.

Thanks to our guest writer, Tom McIlroy (2003) for his piece on the New Brother Provincial. There are lots of stories from our Old Collegians and our current students. Enjoy!

Kerry Martin Editor: Kerry Martin

Production: Jonathan Hewett

Cover Photo: Mr Peter Houlihan with Year 8 Benilde 2

From the Acting Principal We have a responsibility to work closely with the Brothers to ensure that we understand and put into practice to the best of our ability the Lasallian tradition and Philosophy of Education, which is the precious distinctive gift brought to our schools by the De La Salle Brothers.

My first impressions of De La Salle have been extremely favourable.

There is a friendly and purposeful atmosphere in this school which is created by staff, students and parents. I am impressed by how committed so many of the staff, both teaching and non teaching, are to the ideals of the founder of the Lasallian order, St John Baptist de La Salle. I am already aware that this is a school of substance.

A valuable start has been made but there are still challenges ahead. It could be said that we are at a turning point in the history of De La Salle College. Depending on how we react, twenty years from now we will have either a nostalgically Lasallian school with little, if any, evidence of a shared vision or a mildly Lasallian school with some action at the spiritual and collaborative level; or a very distinctively Lasallian College with a vitality and a vision shared by all who are associated with it. Which way we go will be determined by the leadership exercised in our College and the response, especially at the grass roots level. That challenge is our collective responsibility.

Mr Brendan Ellis Acting Principal

It is a great honour and a privilege to lead De La Salle College during the 2nd Semester as it begins to make the significant transition from religious to lay leadership, a process that will be fully implemented when Peter Houlihan becomes the first lay Principal in 2014.

One of the great developments in Australian Catholic education since the Second Vatican Council concluded in 1965 has been the way in which the laity have taken on roles formerly exercised by members of religious orders in Catholic schools. In the classroom, on the sporting field, in religious education, in chaplaincy and in administration, dedicated lay professional teachers and administrators have worked in partnership with religious to develop further the distinctive qualities of Catholic education. This participation of laity has been further enhanced by the way in which, in many schools, parents have come to be more involved in the general educational and pastoral thrust of the school community.

With the continuing inspiration and encouragement of the Brothers, I want to emphasise the important role we will all play from now on as lay men and women in stepping up to lead the way and to build on all that has been achieved in the proud 101 year history of this College.

As Br Paul Rogers stated in the recent stunning visual history of the College entitled With Faith and Zeal Resplendent: “De La Salle has risen through periods of change to be a strong, relevant and valued provider of Christian and human education throughout the 20th Century. The foundations are strong”.

So, it is up to all of us as lay people to build on these strong foundations, in collaboration with the Brothers, the College Board, parents and students to make this the best possible school that it can be and where our students feel valued and continue to be encouraged to be the best that they can be.

Letters (continued) Dear Editor I commend you on the content and presentation of the Roll Call magazine.

Mr B P Tonkin Blairgowrie Dear Editor, Thank you for the Lasallian Roll Call. I love keeping informed of what is happening at the College. I am now actually a school teacher myself! I am the lead teacher at Rowville Primary School and absolutely loving it! My connection with De La Salle has continued since finishing in 2000. I started my teaching career at Camberwell South Primary and, ironically, ended up teaching Terry Atkins’ son Tom in Year 5. My connection with Terry at

Camberwell has always kept my De La roots strong. That and also my classroom, at that time having a view right onto the Malvern Town Hall and Kinnoull Campus! I saw it every day!

On a personal level I am now married and have a 14 month old daughter. Her name is Mackenzie. I live out in Knox and obviously Rowville Primary is just a stone’s throw away, which is great!

Aidan Schanssema

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Ushering in a new era for the College With the appointment by the College Board of the College’s first lay Principal, Roll Call spoke to Peter Houlihan to find out a bit about the man who will take over the leadership of the College in 2014.

De La Salle has a proud and long history of educating boys in Melbourne, what was your reaction to being appointed by the Board, as the first lay principal of the College?

My first reaction was one of humble pride. It was obviously a tremendous thrill to have been selected by the Board as the preferred candidate but also a great sense of excitement about what lies ahead. De La does indeed have a noble history in boys’ education and the influential network of old boys reaches far and wide. I feel a great responsibility to continue this legacy but also to serve the current and future De La Salle families in providing strong and effective leadership in my role as the first lay Principal.

Central to this is the Lasallian ethos, which must be a pivotal and enduring feature of my leadership.

As a lay Principal of a Catholic boys College how do you think the legacy of John Baptist de La Salle can be kept alive?

The Lasallian tradition and ethos provide a rich resource for a contemporary Catholic boys’ education. I am acutely aware of the pivotal role our founder’s legacy plays in everyday dealings in a Lasallian school. St John Baptist de La Salle’s simple instructions are just as valid in 2013 as they were when he established his first school in Rheims in the 1780s. Presence and compassion, good humour, a keen sense of social justice and celebrations of our faith are indispensable. All we stand for and everything we do as a College should be grounded in these teachings and traditions. Policies and programs, formal curriculum, co-curricular pursuits and the manner in which all teachers, students and parents in our community interact with each other must be grounded in Lasallian signposts. Reference and adherence to principles such as the spirit of faith and zeal, respectful relationships, preserving the inherent dignity of our young men and considering each of them as individuals will ensure our founder’s legacy endures.

How does a school like De La Salle make the transition from Brother Principal to lay Principal?

Following 101 years of Brother Principals is a significant challenge and one requiring a good deal of careful, spiritual thought. In many ways a Brother Principal in a college provides a figurehead,

a keeper of the faith, a resident expert, a living symbol of religious life. The security and positive image provided by a century of religious leadership at De La is not to be underestimated. In my new role as the first lay principal I need to be able to be the new face of Lasallian leadership and to demonstrate the key characteristics of the Lasallian ethos — lead by example and instil in the community the confidence and understanding that the very best features of our College’s history and the guidance of the Brothers remain. When the traditions and key messages of the Lasallian ethos are inherent and symbolised in everyday activities, functions, publications and relationships, all in the De La community are reminded of our individual roIes as Lasallians. This will lessen the impact of the transition from Brother to lay principal. I know from past experience and recent conversations De La has a tremendous staff — skilled and passionate, devoted to the College, our young men and the charism. In serving the community and promoting the Lasallian spirit, all in the College can ensure it remains embedded in everyday practices.

As we move forward, what do you think will be the biggest challenges for boys’ education in Australia?

The biggest challenges facing boys education in Australia is to ensure we equip our young men with the 21st century skills to contribute and compete as active and informed citizens in a world constantly changing before their very eyes. Within the parameters of AusVELS, VCE, VET and VCAL etc, educators need to provide opportunities for boys to develop skills in critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity. The Australian Curriculum and controversies surrounding funding models must be balanced against what is critical for boys in 2013. They need choice, rigour, relevance and challenge in their pathways and to be competent and discerning users of ICT. The challenge is to provide an environment which creates positive relationships, strong role models and mentors, recognition and affirmation and support in establishing their identity.

How would you describe your approach to education?

My approach is that there is always something new, challenging, exciting and useful to learn. Education has been my ticket to a 4

where I grew up. I’ve done a lot of house renovations, which has been great, if not always perfect and I love reading, movies and TV series like Homeland and Spooks. Does gardening count as a hobby if you don’t actually enjoy it?

Of course being De La Salle, I have to ask, which AFL team do you follow?

I actually grew up barracking for North after getting Barry Cable’s autograph at my first ever VFL game in 1974, but since coming down from the bush after Year 12 for a largely unspectacular 18 month career with Collingwood Under 19s. I have been a ’Pies fan ever since.

career and a life of fulfilment, discovery and ongoing learning.

A contemporary education needs to provide an outlet and opportunities for passion, interest, intrinsic motivation and the desire to achieve, for personal excellence. In my experience of three schools as a student, university life and a varied teaching career, my educational experience has extended well beyond the classroom. Friendships, a broad co-curricular experience, social and emotional wellbeing and building self-esteem are critical hallmarks of a robust and effective boys’ education program.

What do you think are the ideal traits for a leader of boys?

Boys want to be known, valued, understood and treated with a sense of fairness and justice. The successful leader of boys will have the capacity to develop positive relationships, to know names, ask questions, say “g’day” at the school gate or in the yard, provide recognition and be a presence in their lives.

It is through these positive relationships and rapport that a school leader can engender the cooperation and support of the young men in our charge. Boys appreciate the need for boundaries and structures and respond to clear expectations. The effective school leader must be able to communicate, justify and if necessary enforce these in a spirit of trust and mutual respect.

As St John Baptist de La Salle himself said, “Preach by example and practise before the eyes of the young what you wish them to accept.”

What has your experience working outside Australia brought to your teaching?

Working in an international school in Brunei and the opportunity to visit schools across a range of other Asian countries was a real eye-opener. I think the main issue was the exposure to what actually exists out there in the global education marketplace, so far beyond what we know and are comfortable with in Melbourne and Victoria, even Australia. Different and creative approaches to teaching and learning, pedagogy, curriculum design and assessment were all valuable learning experiences. Becoming familiar with the British system and its National Curriculum and to a lesser extent, the IB provided some tremendous insights into academic rigour, use of data, tracking of student performance, curriculum and the competitive process for tertiary places. It was like five years of professional development working with some outstanding teachers from the UK, America, Africa and Australasia. The way these students and their families valued their educational opportunities and set such high expectations for each other gave me some great insights into how students apply themselves.

Our readers will be very interested to know about Peter Houlihan the man, as much as the College’s first lay Principal — tell us a little about yourself and your family.

I’ve been married to Cate for 23 years. Cate works for Breastscreen Victoria. We have two daughters, Mary, 21 and Nell 19. Mary is studying disability and education at RMIT Bundoora and works part-time as an Integration Aide at the Western Autistic School. Nell works part-time in the office at Marcellin and in reception at Forest Hill Chase shopping centre. Outside school and work I have always been heavily involved in sport. I played footy for nearly 30 years and still go to watch Balwyn in the EFL most weeks, played loads of cricket as a schoolboy, still play in a mid-week tennis comp (at a very low level!) and have always been into swimming, golf, running, (more walking as the years advance) cycling and the beach. I really enjoy travelling overseas when I get the chance and still like to get up to the farm in western Victoria

Peter Houlihan CV • Grew up on a soldier-settlement sheep and cattle farm 20km from Casterton in south-west Victoria, where his mother still lives.

• From a strong traditional, Irish Catholic family.

• Fourth of five kids — two brothers and two sisters plus a big extended family.

• Attended Sacred Heart Primary in Casterton, then attended Year 7–10 at local high school before boarding at Monivae College, Hamilton in Year 11 and 12.

• Moved to Melbourne beginning of 1982 to play preseason with Collingwood • Worked at MLC as a clerk in their Property then Life Insurance divisions.

• 1984 commenced a Bachelor of Education at Melbourne University.

• 1988–1997 Christian Brothers’ College, East St. Kilda, VCE/VASS Coordinator, Sports Coordinator.

• 1996 Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Studies at the University of Melbourne.

• 1997–2001 De La Salle College, Malvern, Curriculum Coordinator, Year 12 Coordinator.

• 1998 Master of Education at the University of Melbourne.

• 2001–2005 Jerudong International School, Brunei Coordinator, University of Queensland Foundation Program and Deputy Head of Sixth Form.

• 2005 Master of Educational Leadership at the Australian Catholic University.

• 2006–current, Marcellin College, in various positions of leadership; currently the Assistant Principal — Learning.

• 2013 Postgraduate Certificate in Curriculum Leadership at the University of Melbourne.

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Academic Awards In July, De La Salle acknowledged and celebrated the academic excellence of students from Year 4 to Year 11 based on marks achieved during their Semester 1 studies.

Assemblies were held for each campus and academic certificate prizes were awarded to the two top performing Primary students at Year 4, 5 and 6 and the top student in each subject offered from Year 7–11. Many parents and family of awardees were able to attend, which added to the sense of the occasion. Parents joined awardees for morning tea at the conclusion of each assembly and the College wishes to thanks those parents who volunteered their time and assisted in the preparation of the event.

Top right: Acting Principal Brendan Ellis with Primary Academic Award winners Pictured right: with the Year 11 Award winners

Philippine Exchange De La Salle students in Years 8, 9, 10 and 11 recently hosted fifteen students as part of a two-week exchange with one of our sister schools — La Salle Green Hills, in Manila.

The Student Exchange Program between schools has proven to be an excellent opportunity for students to gain important insights into interpersonal relationships, varying value systems, differing world views and different social structures. This cultural and academic program heightens our students’ awareness of the works of Lasallian Institutions worldwide.

The Green Hills boys experienced ‘A slice of life in Melbourne’, visiting the sights and landmarks of our town, as well as seeing wild kangaroos and dolphins on a trip to Jan Juc. They spent time in class with our own students and visited the Houses of Parliament as a guest of our local member, Michael O’Brien MLA. The students were accompanied by Br Manny fsc, Mrs Marie Santos and Mrs Cheryl Joaquin-villneuva.

A highlight of the visit for the boys was to be the families who looked after them. To quote one of the boys, “I felt so welcome by my host family — I was included in everything. Even though our cultures are different, I noticed how similar we all are.

This may be because we are all Lasallian.

We have so much more in common than any differences — and the differences make it so much more interesting. I can’t thank my Aussie family enough”.

In 2014, there will be an opportunity for our own Year 9 and 10 (2014) students to travel to Manila for a two-week reciprocal exchange.

Mr David Happ Philippines Exchange Coordinator

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De La Salle Music The De La Salle music staff have been busy lately with the Annual Concert in the PAC and the music tour to Marysville, along with the regular music nights for various year levels. This year the music campers visited several schools including Buxton Primary where they played with the the school’s Steel Pan Band. Each school was treated to a performance by the College’s Concert Band as well as the String Ensemble and the funky sounds of the Guitar Ensemble. This is the eighth year the College has had a regional music tour and this year’s tour to Marysville allowed student to hone their concert skills as well as delight students affected by the Marysville fires.

Pictured bottom: De La Salle music students and staff with the students of Warburton Primary School Also pictured right and below: the Year 7 Music Night

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A market kitchen in Cambodia By the time Roll Call turns up in your mail box this month, Tom O’Sullivan (2003) will be sitting back enjoying a coffee at a new social enterprise restaurant in Phnom Phen called, the Market Kitchen.

Market Kitchen, an initiative of The Cambodian Children’s Trust, will provide a local, seasonal and sustainable menu with produce often sourced directly from the farmers.

“We aim to create a partcaffeinated, part-ethical, part-artistic, communal hub of activity that engages the local community,” Tom O’Sullivan said.

CCT focus on providing children and their families the best opportunities through education, health, employment and training.

The Market Kitchen will provide employment and training opportunities, a homely space for weary tourists and a taste of home for expats.

“I became aware of the opportunity through an old housemate.

After discussing the opportunity with CCT I was motivated by their story and wanted to help them with developing marginalised individuals through hospitality. I arrived in Cambodia a month later in March this year, to help establish and manage the Social Enterprise Restaurant – Market Kitchen,” Tom said.

“We have engaged David Thompson, owner of the highly awarded Nahm restaurant in Bangkok and author of ‘Thai Street Food’, as well as John Fink of Sydney’s Quay and Otto Restaurants to assist with menu development, restaurant design, and create unique education opportunities for trainees, such as our head chef Mohm Meah. Mohm was born in a small village in Battambang Province, Cambodia. She grew up in extreme poverty, and her childhood memories are filled with struggle. During her teenage years she lost her parents, and her aunt and uncle died of HIV/ AIDS. “Mohm, still just a kid herself, was left to battle through the grief while raising her three younger siblings and two younger cousins. Her love and dedication to her young charges ensured they were safe, housed, fed and able to continue attending school. Mohm, however, never received an education. This huge personal sacrifice also put her safety at risk. She experienced abuse on a number of occasions from employers, neighbours and co-workers.”

In 2010 things started to turn round for Mohm. Her younger siblings and cousins were placed in CCT’s foster care program,

and Mohm was supported through hospitality training. Having gone on to gain experience in a hostel, it was clear that she was the best fit to take on the challenge of head chef at Market Kitchen.

She has already completed two weeks of training at Nahm, Bangkok in June and her visa has just been approved to complete training at The Trustee Perth and Quay and Otto restaurants in Sydney.

Tom began volunteering with an organisation called Y-Gap social enterprise cafe, Kinfolk on Bourke Street Melbourne. “I realized the potential of the ways hospitality can empower individuals and create positive change and aid in developing communities. I had found a way to combine my strengths in hospitality and passion for development,” he said.

Most recently he was managing The Mission Cafe in Prahran, for Prahran Mission. “Our focus was to empower and provide training and employment opportunities for marginalised individuals in society.”

Having gained experience in hotels and various restaurants, Tom decided to challenge himself and returned to study as a mature age student. “As I did not graduate VCE with a very high score, I had to attend TAFE to complete a degree. Currently I have one unit remaining to complete a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Entrepreneurship and Innovation.”

“If you ask my teachers and peers from school they would tell you I wasn’t very academic, athletic or artistic. But I believe one of the best qualities of De La was their passion for finding a future or direction for students of all capabilities. That is not to say I 8

Letter from Phnom Penh Earlier this year De La teacher Clare Bird took up a posting as a volunteer teacher for a Cambodian based NGO working with underprivileged students. Clare writes from Phnom Penh. didn’t try anything out. I remember giving ACC table tennis and volleyball a go but never quite made the footy side. I look back on my days at De La Salle fondly and it was the place of some of my favourite memories.”

“Apart from the friends I made the best thing about De La Salle was being encouraged to undertake a VET programme in hospitality. Completing this through VCE gave me direction and employment opportunities after completing Year 12.”

“One thing I did attend in my time at school was a camp in Narooma NSW, which was a socially focussed workshop that engaged students from Lasallian schools from around the world.

What I took away from it was the need to establish a socially focused group, to build awareness within the De La Salle community of the poor and marginalized. It was the turning point for me.”

“It was challenging going straight into full-time employment post VCE, as many of my friends were in tertiary education or in a trade where the hours were more regular. I found it hard to keep in contact with them.”

The Cambodian Children’s Trust was founded by Tara Winkler in 2007 to help children suffering from neglect and abuse. CCT provides necessary resources for families in order to remain living together.

Market Kitchen is sponsored by Vittoria Coffee, which has sponsored the build and the first year’s operations.

My mornings start early. I wake to the sound of our neighbours chatting energetically and the smell of garlic as breakfast noodle soup is prepared.

I still savor a western breakfast and stick to muesli and a cup of tea.

Soon I am out the door and jumping into the back of my driver’s tuk tuk.

Mr Chan safely pilots me through the chaos of the Phnom Penh traffic, where the rules are dictated by human survival. It is a long commute to work, however I enjoy it for the sights and sounds it presents to me — the markets that spill out onto the roadside, endless construction work, breakfast noodle carts and families of four commuting together on their ‘motto’.

I arrive at school and am greeted by my students as I walk across the yard — “hello teacher!” These students come from varied backgrounds but mostly their families live well below the poverty line. According to the World Bank 30% of the country live in a state of poverty. People are desperate for work but lack the education and skills to lift themselves and their families out of poverty. More than 400,000 people work in the garment factories (Cambodia’s largest employer) and many do not get paid more than $100 per month, with $60 being the average monthly wage across the country. Many of these young students who I see before me are eager to change their life trajectory. They face many challenges having been a part of the rampant sex trade, victims of domestic violence, or mixed up with petty street crime and drugs. However, their plight is not apparent — they look like normal students in their blue school uniforms.

As I walk into my office I casually greet my Khmer colleagues, “Sues dey!” My office is sparsely furnished as resources are limited and there is absolutely no concept of ergonomic design or OH&S! I work with a team of four Business English teachers, and together we are designing and developing a Business English program for the Vocational Training School in PSE. Pour Un Sourire d’Enfant (PSE) is a French NGO established in 1995, who operate for severely disadvantaged youth with little or no access to education. Over the past 18 years they have grown considerably in size and areas of expertise. My role as Business English Coordinator encompasses teaching and curriculum development. The first couple of months have involved a review of current programs, needs analysis, and an audit of available resources. We have already had some successes and hopefully more to come.

Waiting for my laptop to connect to the (very slow) network I reflect on the past three months living in Phnom Penh. Cambodia’s capital city is fast becoming the Mecca for foreign workers drawn to the 1000+ NGO’s. It is a fairly easy city to assimilate into, with everything an expat could want or need – cultural activities, local markets, westernised supermarkets, cafes, and cinemas. The balance seems to be just right. And despite the disparity between rich and poor, ingrained corruption, the challenges and strange ways of doing things, it is hard not to be optimistic about the future, where I work with such dedicated and motivated people who believe in positive change for their country.

Clare Bird Pictured left: Pour Un Sourire d’Enfant school Phnom Phen

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High Flyer

By Kerry Martin

Since Jackson Enright graduated from the College in 2003 his head has often been in the clouds. After juggling numerous part time jobs to finance his flight training at Swinburne University he now flies 747s long haul for Cathay Pacific Airways.

destination. I normally get one or two days at the destination which sounds glamorous but I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been to Paris and spent the entire layover catching up on sleep in the hotel rather than exploring.

I’m sure the 400 passengers behind the cockpit door appreciate a wellrested pilot on the return flight!’

As well as a busy schedule as an international pilot, Jackson is also a keen sportsman. He admits rigour has taken its toll as he has suffered numerous sporting accidents in his attempt to stay fit and healthy. “I have fractured bones cycling, roller blading and snowboarding. It’s debatable whether exercise is actually good for me at this point.”

To keep his life as complicated as possible, he met an IsraeliAmerican while on a trip to San Francisco in 2011. “We started dating pretty much straight away and I have spent my time since commuting between Hong Kong and San Francisco. The plan is to eventually move to the USA permanently.” I compact my flight schedule into a couple of weeks and spend as much of my downtime as possible — usually around two weeks a month — in California. And I used to complain about the 45 minute drive home from Moorabbin Airport!’

Of his De La days, Jackson says he really enjoyed Maths and Physics. “They both came in very handy when learning all about aerodynamics and structures at uni.”

He was involved in the Debating Club and was active in ACC sports, but his passion at the College was the Rock Eisteddfods.

“I got involved in ‘Rock Ed’ in Year 7 and continued it until I completed Year 12.

“I still remember Year 9 when there weren’t enough students to have a Year 9 dance group for the Rock Ed, so I was spray painted silver, put in a suit and canvas life jacket, given an antique suitcase and was cast to play a dead body floating in the sea next to the Titanic!”

“I knew how expensive flying was when I graduated from De La Salle. In those days it was not part of the HECS scheme so I had little choice but to work hard to achieve my dream to become a pilot.”

“For a year after Year 12 I worked four different jobs to save enough to start the aviation program at Swinburne. I worked at Bunnings and a jewelry store during the day and was a barman on a boat at night.”

Jackson says he is grateful for the generosity of some of his bosses who allowed him to work flexible hours in between flying and studying. “I was pretty lucky that I got a job as an accountant a few months before university started. It was full time but my boss was happy for me to come and go at all hours of the day and night as long as I worked the appropriate hours and the books balanced!” Jackson also continued to work two night jobs during the course. “It’s fair to say my social life was nonexistent between 2004 and 2008.”

In those days the course, which included a 150-hour flight component, was split between time at the Hawthorn campus of Swinburne University and two days a week at Moorabbin Airport.

Eventually all the hard work paid off and in 2008 Jackson completed his Bachelor of Technology (Aviation) and his Australian Commercial Pilot’s License in the process.

He qualified as a flight instructor at Moorabbin Airport where he was involved in training Swinburne University students and Qantas Cadets. “I taught anything from basic flight and navigation to aerobatics.”

In 2010, after a short stint at another flight school in Adelaide, this time teaching cadets from Emirates and Cathay Pacific Airways, he joined Cathay as a Second Officer.

“I went from flying Cessna 172’s, Grobs, TB-10s and DA42s to a Boeing 747-400…it was a giant leap.’

Based in Hong Kong he is part of a crew on Ultra Long Haul Flights, including, London, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, Johannesburg, Anchorage, Vancouver, San Francisco…the list goes on.

‘It’s mostly ‘back of the clock’ work as most flights arrive first thing in the morning at their

As Roll Call goes to print Jackson was on his way to the Boeing factory at Paine Field in Seattle to collect Cathay’s new Boeing 747-8F Above: Jackson (on the left) with the crew Pictured left: Jackson in front of a GEnx2B engine of the aircraft Pictured right: Jackson on the cover of a Cathay Marketing brochure

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It all just adds up!

Everyone loves a success story and Simon Byers is another in a long line of De La Salle graduates. The 30-year-old CPA is the Partner of Highview Accounting Prahran, a newly established Accounting firm right in the mix on High Street, opposite Swinburne University.

Graduating from De La Salle in 2000, Simon had a keen interest in finance, and a passion for numbers and knew a career in the field of accounting and finance was for him. He went on to complete a Bachelor of Business and Commerce at Monash University, majoring in Accounting and Finance, graduating in 2004.

Upon graduating, Simon had an itch to travel — an itch he needed to scratch! He spent the next two years working and travelling all around Europe. “It gave me a sense of the world, maturity, and a level of personal growth that I am really proud of.”

Upon his return to Melbourne, his passion to get stuck into his career was at a high. Having moved out to the South Eastern suburbs with his family, Simon secured a job at the well established accounting firm Highview Accounting, located in Cranbourne.

At the same time Simon began his post-graduate CPA studies. His hefty study load while working certainly didn’t hinder his professionalism and output. Silvio Marinelli, his mentor and employer at the time said, “It was obvious Simon was a leader from the beginning.

He had great drive, his work was of excellent standard and clients really enjoyed working with him.”

In 2011 Simon branched out, and in partnership with Highview Accounting Cranbourne opened up his own firm in Prahran. “I always wanted to go back to my ‘home ground’ and work in an area where I had many friends and family, in an area I was familiar with.”

Two years now in Prahran, Simon is very proud of what he has achieved in a short time. “Prahran is growing at an excellent rate. I have many clients from the area, including past De La Salle comrades. I can honestly say I’m enjoying my career immensely.”

“I really enjoyed my time at De La and I am still grateful to the teachers who had faith in my abilities, even though I don’t think I had much artistic merit.”

“De La taught me to find what was important to me, and be happy knowing that I was enjoying what I was doing, no matter what others thought. And to this day I’ll still pretty much try anything once, if I get the opportunity.”

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Congratulations Ashton Agar

By Kerry Martin Amongst the thousands of proud Australians watching Ashton Agar belt out his recordbreaking Innings in the second Test at Trent Bridge recently were his family — his two younger brothers, Will in Year 12 and Wes in Year 11, and his parents Sonia and John.

Roll Call spoke to Ashton’s father about his son’s outstanding achievement.

John Agar said, “When the Ashes are on in England there is nothing much else going on except cricket and when the Ashes are at Tent Bridge the whole of Nottinghamshire is alive with cricket.”

“It was wonderful being there when the Test was on. “It was a wonderful time and the whole town was in carnival mode and everybody was talking about Ashton.”

The Agars were in the stands supporting Ashton and like most of Australia, applauding his every run. “When Ashton finally went out he looked over towards where we were sitting and waved his bat at us. When he came over to us at the fence he said he was sorry that he hadn’t made 100.”

John said they were all coping with the media attention. “Cricket Australia have been fantastic in their support, making sure we were not too swamped by all the media interest.”

“Ashton has coped with the attention particularly well. His maturity has helped him a lot and he realises that it just comes with the territory of playing Test Cricket.”

Out for 98 — Ashton takes it on the chin

“Ashton will get more media and public attention but I don’t believe it will change him. He has had a lot of sponsorship offers which he is still thinking about and it has added a little bit of expectation.”

“As a parent our relationship and our expections of Ashton will not change but we realise that the public’s expectations of him have increased ten-fold, and that is something we will all have to deal with.”

Pictured left: Ashton with his family at Trent Bridge Below: The “Sultan of Spin”, Ashton Agar in the 2011 ACC cricket final

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Ashton’s winning innings With Australia 9–117 in their first innings chasing England’s total of 215, Ashton strode to the middle at Trent Bridge for his batting debut for his country. Defying any nerves and the pressure of the situation, Ashton Agar proceeded to make 98 runs in a batting display of skill and determination the cricket world had never seen before from a No. 11 batsman.

He not only became the highest scorer for the Australian innings and captured 2 wickets in the England 2nd innings, he is now the custodian of the following cricket records: • Highest ever individual score by any No. 11 batsman.

• Highest score and first 50 by a No. 11 batsman on debut.

• Second fastest 50 runs scored on debut by a No. 11 Ashton lifts his bat to his parents Sonia and John on making his first test 50 at Trent Bridge Batsman.

• World record partnership with Phil Hughes for the 10th wicket of 163 runs. captained the De La Salle First XI in the ACC Competition earlier Ashton’s two younger brothers are current De La Salle students. this year. Wes is in Year 11 and both Will and Wes are also very Will is in Year 12 and is the 2013 Vice Captain of the College and talented cricketers who always represent DLS in ACC Cricket.

Mr Peter Harte

Right: Ashton (holding the ACC Premiers’ trophy) with fellow members of the De La Salle 1st XI. Above: With brothers Will (left) and Wes (right) Above left: Ashton receives his test baggy green from Glenn McGrath Above right: Ashton claims a test wicket Test photos courtesy of Cricket Australia

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Our New Provincial

By Tom McIlroy supporters collected over his years of service. At table in a Brothers’ community or drinking coffee with young people, he listens and laughs.

On a hot Sydney afternoon in February, the Founders Chapel at Oak Hill was full for the investiture service which saw Br Mark formally installed in the new role. After a simple reception that evening, he was mobbed by friends from all corners of the district who had been touched by his ministry.

His four-year term is likely to be one of ongoing change, as the Brothers continue to seek new members.

“If former students who went through Malvern were to go back to the school today, the first thing they would notice would be the absence of Brothers,” he said. “These days in Australia only a small number of Brothers work full-time in schools, but they would also notice schools are still strong in Lasallian values because the teachers remain committed to giving the young men an excellent education.”

“In some ways nothing will have changed. In schools like De La Salle, there is still a strong emphasis in making sure that young men leave instilled with those values. You can see that happening at De La Salle through programs like Coolies, originally started by Br Denis Loft and now continued by committed lay teachers.”

A sometimes-reluctant traveler, Br Mark said he is used to explaining his job to the passenger in the next seat on a long flight.

“When I am sitting on a plane and someone initially asks me what I do, I tend to say I recruit volunteers for service projects. If they ask what kind of places, I usually talk about Pakistan and PNG and if I get a sense they understand a bit more, I mention the church and tell them what a Br does,” he said.

“What I am realising now more and more is that whereas before this year I had a pretty strong focus on vocations... my focus now is more broad. So when I visit a school, I will talk to students as well as principals and other key people and sometimes do an impromptu class to make sure I don’t lose touch.”

“I challenge them to think about how they can contribute to the Lasallian mission.”

Despite the demanding role, he continues to meet one-on-one with individuals seeking support or spiritual direction and this is a source of friendship and support to the Brothers.

Asked what qualities he brings to the job and to his vocation, Br Mark laughs.

“I think I am outgoing and affable, interested in the lives of people, and interested in listening to the dreams and vision people have for our district,” he said. “I want to help people get the best out of themselves and I certainly strive to work out how I can improve in my own life.”

Reading a novel or watching a crime thriller on television are his methods of relaxation.

“The importance I place in daily prayer and reflection is something that sustains me in this role,” Br Mark said. “I think I am facing the challenges that come my way with a bit more equanimity, and doing that through daily prayer certainly gives me a deeper peace, even though on the surface things coming my way or the way of the Brothers might be a bit rough.”

When Br Mark McKeon woke up around 5am on January 1 this year, he began his first day as the most senior De La Salle Brother in the District of Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and Papua New Guinea.

The Queensland-born Br Visitor was starting his new job in Faisalabad, Pakistan – the newest outreach of our Lasallian district.

After four years working under Br Ambrose Payne as Auxiliary Visitor, Br Mark said he used a 10-day visit to meet with each of the Pakistani Brothers individually to discuss their needs and the changing face of the Institute across the world.

“The challenge for me is having four different countries that I have to work with, each with their own distinct problems and distinct challenges,” he said in a recent interview. “You look at places like Pakistan and PNG which are really challenged at the moment on issues of sustainability and compare them with places like Australia and New Zealand which are much more established. I have to be present in each and serve all the Brothers.”

An experienced teacher, administrator and coordinator of Lasallian youth ministry, Br Mark has taken on the role as the Lasallian mission continues to experience radical change around the world. Leading Brothers’ communities and district partners and administration from Bankstown in Sydney’s south-west, Br Mark serves as a visiting leader in a role which dates back to John Baptist De La Salle himself.

He said the addition of Pakistan to the district in mid-2012 came as schools like De La Salle, Malvern, saw a shift in the role played

by Brothers and lay teachers.

“Pakistan is certainly fledgling. It is growing and there are a lot of positive signs of the young men who express interest in the Brothers’ life — and that is encouraging. In October I will make another visit there and be present when two young men make their final vows.”

As fewer Brothers work full time in schools in Australia, the push for universal, compulsory education by the Papua New Guinean government by 2015 will add demand to already stretched Lasallian resources there.

“At the moment only 60 per cent of school-aged children start school and the PNG government are saying that in two years’ time it will be compulsory for everyone to go to school. The problem is there aren’t the teachers trained for this influx of students, so what we have decided is to focus our energies on as much as we can in teacher education in the country.”

With only ten De La Salle Brothers in the country, the challenge will be met in part by Lasallian partners and aid from countries including Australia and New Zealand.

Down to earth, task orientated, disciplined and with an active prayer life, Br Mark is often seen surrounded by friends and 14

Working on his French Ryan Foots (1993) fondly remembers his French teacher, Mrs Medsker. “She was a great teacher, but in Year 8 and 9 I had no interest whatsoever in studying French and during the many, many, classes I would protest: ‘Why do I need to learn French? I will never use it!’

“I now live in a French speaking country, with a French wife and a little boy who speaks both English and French...if only I had listened to Mrs Medsker.” Not surprisingly, years later Ryan found himself enrolled in a French course.

Ryan is the managing director of Vancorp Constructions in Port Vila, Vanuatu where he builds resorts, casinos and apartments.

After graduating from De La, Ryan went straight into a carpentry apprenticeship with Merkon Constructions. Some years later he enrolled in university and graduated with an MBA in Building and Construction and went into project management, managing large scale commercial projects around Melbourne.

In 2005 Merkon Constructions won a job in Vanuatu building 64 three storey apartments on an island called Iririki. Eighteen months later, when the project was over, Ryan went back to Melbourne and took some time out to do some travel. He decided to put a proposal to his boss at Merkon to set up an operation in Vanuatu. “After all, Vanuatu is a beautiful place with beautiful people and we could see the potential was there for growth.” He agreed and Ryan has been in Vanuatu ever since.

Six years ago he met and fell in love with a French Girl named Claire who he married and had a son, Max, who is now two.

“While I was at De La I loved sport and was heavily involved in ACC footy, cricket, cross country and basketball,” he said.

“De La gave me the outlook on life that I have today.”

“I recently attended our Year’s 20 year reunion and there were probably 100 out of 206 from the year level. Not bad for 20 years. It was great to meet all the guys, some you have not seen since the day you left.”

“De La taught me about forming friendships and relationships which have helped me throughout my life, both in good and bad times. It was a

Above: Ryan with his wife Claire and son Max Bottom: Ryan with Vancorp staff

great six years of my life which helped shape the person I have become. Hopefully, one day when I move back home, I will get to send my son to De La Salle.”

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De La Salle Sport ACC Football Premiers In near perfect footy conditions — wet, cold and windy — the College’s Year 8 Football side took out the ACC Premiership against Parade College at DW Lucas Oval.

In a very tense and frantic opening five minutes, Parade scored the first goal.

However, De La had been warned several times pre-match about the danger of trying to play catch-up football, particularly in wet weather as goals are usually at a premium.

Our boys quickly ensured that the only team playing catch-up football was Parade and by half time De La Salle had established an invaluable lead of 20 points. This advantage was achieved through relentless pressure and tackling combined with smart and skillful wet weather football.

By 3/4 time, the Premiership Pennant was almost ready to be hoisted at Tiverton Campus as Parade were held scoreless for the term and De La had stretched the lead to 27 points. Parade certainly did mount a strong last quarter challenge but could manage just 6 behinds whilst De La Salle kicked the only goal for the quarter to record a convincing 28 point victory and premiership glory.

The final scores and details were: De La Salle – 6.6.42 Parade –1.8.14 Goal Kickers: Higgins 3, McGaw, Clarke, Farrell.

Best Players: Shannon, Higgins, Trusler, Clarke, Farrell.

Australian Weightlifting Titles James Delaney (11D) recently won the Australian Weightlifting title in the 56 kilogram class for both Junior and Senior divisions, not done since Simon Heffernan (later a Commonwealth Gold Medalist) completed the double in 1990s. James is another in a long line of Australian, Commonwealth and Olympic weightlifting champions who are Old Collegians. The College congratulates James for his recent success.

Cross Country Carnival The College held its annual cross-country carnival at T.H. King reserve last month. Students ran 3 kilometres in chilly conditions. The winners were: Year 7 Vincent, Year 8 Solomon, Year 9 Roland and Year 10 Benilde.

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Year 12 Revisited Was it only eight months since we gathered as a Year 12 group for our Valedictory dinner at Caulfield Racecourse?

And here we are together again as “graduates” for our first reunion as Old Collegians. I don’ t think we are deserving of that title yet however. There may be a bit more facial hair and hair over the collar but essentially we are still the same boys who finished last year as the Class of 2012. It was great to catch up with old friends and find out where everyone ended up after our exams and ATAR results. All of that seemed so long ago. It was also great to see some of our former teachers again and share some stories of Homeroom antics and school yard fun. We all share great memories of our De La days. Special thanks to Mrs Trish Woodman who organised the reunion. I am sure we will see more of each other before our next reunion in four and a half years.

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10 Year Reunion The 10-year reunion for the class of 2003 recently held at the Malvern Vale Hotel brought Old Collegians out of the woodwork.

In many cases it was the first time some former students had seen each other for a number of years so the night provided a great chance to catch up over a few beers. Unlike the five year reunion where most students were still studying, travelling or finishing their qualifications, the night proved that the boys of ’03 are an eclectic bunch when it comes to their professional lives. While there were clearly an overabundance of lawyers in the room (one is usually too many), there were plumbers, pilots, musicians, architects, web designers and all manner of professions — no doubt, a great reflection on the diversity of life in general at De La Salle. It was great to see the night well attended by staff and it was clear that everyone thoroughly enjoyed being able to catch up outside the class room.

A big thankyou must go to Trish Woodman who had the unenviable task of tracking down so many former students for the event. It was interesting that on my way in to the reunion I bumped into some friends from a nearby boys’ school who were surprised that a reunion was being held at all, more surprised that the College was responsible for organising it, as such things certainly did not occur through their old school. The night was a testament to De La’s emphasis on keeping in touch with its alumni and the great sense of community it strives to maintain amongst past students.

Billy Dwyer 2003

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20 Year Reunion It was hard to believe 20 years had passed since we departed the grounds of the Kinnoull Campus. However it did not take long for old friendships to reignite and conversations to pick up where they had been left two decades earlier.

Although life post-De La had taken each of us on different paths and had in some cases resulted in a change of physical appearance — the camaraderie, spirit and close bond that made the Class of ’93 a very special group remained.

There was a moment to remember those who are no longer with us — Tony O’Hearn, Dan Sumpton, Archie Aiello and especially Paul Carlson who was (and still is) an incredible inspiration to us all. May their memories live on.

There would have been moments when those who attended had considered not going, but what a fantastic night it was.

Bring on the 25 year reunion and may there be more regular communication in the interim.

On behalf of those who attended — a huge thanks to Trish Woodman and John Bolt for organising the night.

David Hickey

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Old Collegians Football The start of every season brings hope to all teams, all players, officials and supporters and with De La those hopes were only increased as the Dees got their season off to a flying start. The seniors won their opening five games and sat proudly atop the ladder, but from that point on it seemed that Fate had conspired against us.

Injuries mounted, the weather turned the grounds to heavy slushy mud pits and bigger more experienced opposition teams were able to catch our fleet footed runners. A further complication was that — as seems to be the way — the travel bug hit quite a few players. After helping us in the early part of the season they looked to fulfil dreams of Ashes tours, hiking though the Andes and trekking across the African hinterlands, which didn’t help our season.

The club has that indefatigable spirit and despite setbacks with our playing group there have been some positives to come and continue to come from within the club. We have continued to field seven teams — seniors, reserves, thirds, Club XVIII, two under/19 teams and our over–35 Super-rules teams.

The Club XVIII, under the leadership and cajoling of Tom Kovarik, made the finals, but unfortunately were knocked out in week 1 of the finals, thus bringing down the curtain on their season. They can look back on their efforts with a sense of achievement.

The Supers, under the leadership of off-field general Peter Waldron and on-field leadership of Andrew Mackintosh, have made the finals after they defeated the previously undefeated Dingley and look forward with anticipation to advancing further into the season.

The Under 19’s have been working hard to field 2 teams each week and it is a credit to coaches Simon Brown, Michael Hogan and their assistants Anthony Hale and ‘Wazza’ Wheatley. They have remained in contention for September action given the lengthy injury list — along with identifying some emerging young players for the seniors.

The thirds under Steve Brown will just miss out on the finals and the reserves are looking to defend their premiership as they look to qualify for finals again.

Despite the seniors amassing an alarming injury rate they have remained in contention for the finals and at present are still looking to achieve that goal. In the seniors we have seen the emergence of genuinely exciting players and the future augurs well with young guns Jake Williams, Charlie Haley and Sebastian Gotch becoming terrific players and complementing and assisting the more established players like Matt Hine, David Lowe, Sam Pickett and the evergreen Tom ‘Swooper’ Moloney to keep the Blue and Gold banner flying high.

In the next few weeks the Club will be hosting two events which we welcome Roll Call readers to attend.

The Legends Lunch will be held on Friday September 13 at the Mt Erica Hotel, when the club will induct three new legends into that very select group of players.

The Presentation Night will be Friday October 4, where the final part of the Best and Fairest votes will be read out at Caulfield Racecourse.

If you would like to attend either of these events please contact the following people: Brian Waldron — brian.waldron3@gmail.com or 0418 368 193 Mark Parker — mparker9999@gmail.com or 0430 331 525 Peter Waldron -— pwaldron@cf.cgl.com.au; or 0428 990 026 Richard Williams — rwilliams@woodards.com.au 0409 3431 978 We look forward to seeing you at Waverley Park as your Old Collegians Football Club represents the De La community with pride, passion and commitment. More information can be found on our always up-to-date website at www.delafootball.com.au Go dee’s!!

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Where Are They Now?

War Memorial

Rohan Conlon (2005) pictured in Tarin Kowt on Anzac Day this year with his Bushmaster Armoured Car with Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Senator David Feeney, and one of his advisors.

Jason Moore (1993) lives in Los Angeles with his wife and teaches at a private elementary school. Two of Jason’s classmates, Stuart Jones and Jason Smith, attended the wedding.

Nick Farrow (1993) lives in New York with his wife and daughter and works for JP Morgan.

Billy Dwyer (2003) has been made an associate at Clarendon’s law firm.

Jack Lewis (2009), after two years travelling is studying Fashion Design and working at Ticketmaster.

Tim McCurdy (2006) is managing Sake Restaurant at Southbank after winning the gong for best Barista in the country. Well done Tim. Clinton Wilson (1993) has swapped a career in IT to run his own cleaning business. He still plays a mean game of golf.

Brendan Woodman (2003) completed a degree in Physiotherapy at Latrobe University. He worked as a physio in Cobram for four years and is now based at Latrobe Hospital in Gippsland. Pictured with his mum, De La Salle staff member Trish Woodman.

Tom Donegan (2003) completed a Bachelor in Journalism and then a Masters of Wine Marketing at the University of South Australia. Tom worked as a sommelier at the Stokehouse and Coda and is about to depart for Los Angeles to pursue opportunities in the wine industry in California.

Dan Colman (2003) is working as a stock market analyst at JB Weir.

Luke Murtagh (1994) recently completed his Pain Medicine training at Royal Adelaide Hospital. Luke is now qualified in both medicine and anaesthesia.

Anthony Hillier (2002) is a chemical engineer with Worley Parsons in Melbourne and is getting married in November.

Richard Clance (2001) is the General Manager of Byron Burgers in London and has recently bought a house in Bromley, Kent.

Anthony Felstead (1995) and Bryce Felstead (1999) both work for the same company in IT. James Hillier (2004) runs a successful IT business.

Andrew Nolan (2005) travelled to Europe in 2007 and loved its history so much he applied for Arts/Education so he could teach History. He completed his degree in 2012.

Michael Torrisi (2006) is teaching at Sherbrooke Community College.

Paul Culliver (2007) works as a Production Assistant at Absolute Radio in London and previously worked at ABC Radio Melbourne.

Many of our Old Collegians will be aware of the War Memorial incorporated into the shrine of Mary adjacent to the rear gate of the Tiverton Campus. The plaque commemorates those Old Collegians who have died in National Service. The Memorial, which was dedicated in 1948, is currently undergoing refurbishment to ensure its place as a part of the College’s rich history.

Afalter Patrick Kearney Bernard

Ahern Kevin Kempson Leo

Argo David Leydin Alan

Bertram George Anthony McGrath Graham

Bolger John Mcgrath James

Boyle Daniel P Mclelland Joseph

Bulleen Noel Joseph Mahoney Francis G

Burt Alwyn Mercovich John

Cashman William Moore M John

Clarke John Nanscawen John

Corbett Edward C O’Brien Bernard J

Cosgriff Brian Patrick O’Dea Oliver D

Day Leonard Pardon Noel

Dockery Graeme Parker George

Dunford Patrick Rekdale John S

Eccles Percy Rice Leo

Edwards Francis X Shortal John L

Fitzgerald Brian Sullivan John

Fogarty Daniel M Tanner Xavier

Garrett Alfred Thomas Adrian

Hennessy Kevin Wells Arthur Robert

Higgins Eric V White Joseph

Hooker Robert Willcocks Ignatius

Jones Terence Wilson Philip

Kean Pierce Fagan James E

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M.O.F.S.

New Book on Mannix Daniel Mannix: Beyond the Myths (Garratt Publishing) has been published posthumously by James Griffin (1947). Professor Jim Griffin, who died in 2010, taught History at Xavier College before going into academia. This book about Archbishop Daniel Mannix was completed by Griffin’s literary executor Paul Ormonde. Jim Griffin also wrote John Wren, A Life Revisited as an attempt to balance up the real story of John Wren against the late Frank Hardy’s version in Power Without Glory.

In a recent review of the book published in The Age newspaper, Morag Fraser described the former Old Collegian as “rhetorically gifted”. Jim Griffin was one of the wave of intellectual Catholics brought up and educated in Australia before the great wind of the Second Vatican Council blew through the orthodoxies, traditions and power structures of the Roman church. In 1963, when Daniel Mannix died (at 99), it was too soon to judge the impact of that council, but in the half-century that followed, the church — and the world — changed immeasurably. Griffin was the very model of what Mannix had championed — the elevation of Catholics into the educated, professional class. Rhetorically gifted, Griffin demythologises but does not underestimate his subject, which makes his Mannix all the more fascinating.

His book provides careful historian’s justice to the many controversies that swirled around Mannix during his long life. He gives a detailed account of the mutations of Mannix’s Irish nationalism, which comprehended his courtly reception of British royalty when he was president of Ireland’s Maynooth seminary, his “say no’’ interventions in Australia’s conscription referenda during the First World War, his strident criticism of England before and after he was intercepted by the British Navy preventing him from landing in Ireland in 1920, and his lifelong friendship with the “machiavellian’’ Eamon de Valera.”

From the Archives In this edition we have selected another photo from the College archives. Taken in front of Manresa, it shows the College’s senior footballers. We believe the photo is from the 30’s.

If you can identify any or all of the players please contact the Editor. kmartin@delasalle.vic.edu.au

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30 Year Reunion

Rest In Peace

‘Class of 1983’

Frederick (Fred) Murphy 1945 Br Celsus (Malachi) Clark 1947 Michael Carey 1948 Bernard (Bernie) Slattery 1952 William (Bill) Rutherford 1960 Mark Kelliher 1961 Brian Connelly 1962 Mark Sherer 1964 David Hollier 1976

Friday 15 November 6.30pm till midnight Malvern Bowling Club $70-covers food and drinks CONTACT Mark George mark@portfolioplanners.com.au John King john.king@pharmacysales.com.au Ted McKernan anton.mckernan@thecomfortgroup.co Dean Phelan dean.phelan@mortgagechoice.com.au Martin Tobin martin@outlore.com.au Jonathan Turley jonathan@jadconsulting.com.au Peter Waldron p.waldron@cgl.com.au RSVP by Friday 18 October

25 Year Reunion

Parents Perform for the College

‘Class of 1988’ Sat 26th October from 3.00pm Mt Erica Hotel

The fun-filled spirit of the De La parent community came to the fore at the recent Parent Network Trivia Night fundraiser. There was no room for the shy hearted, as the capacity crowd in the College’s gymnasium showcased their best karaoke and dance routines in the name of raising money for the College. A record number of auction donations from the community and local businesses raised more than $25,000, which was a tremendous effort. The Parents Network would like to thank all of those people who donated goods and services and of course it wouldn’t have been possible without the parents who made it such a successful night.

CONTACT Andrew Mackintosh 0418 540 060 - AndrewM@Mackintosh.com.au

De La Salle Arts Exhibition

Opening Tuesday 17th September 7.30 pm in the Performing Arts Centre

Tuesday 17th to Thursday 19th September

Arts & afternoon tea Wednesday 18th September 2–5 pm in the Performing Arts Centre

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artwork by Oliver Carlson

De La Salle College Malvern