The Pelican Issue 8, Semester Two 2025

SEMESTER TWO, 2025

THE PELICAN

CONTENTS

HEAD OF COLLEGEJas Lincoln

AS THE

ACADEMIC YEAR

DRAWS TO A CLOSE, I AM FILLED WITH GRATITUDE AND OPTIMISM. THERE HAS BEEN MUCH TO CELEBRATE THIS YEAR.

We have been buoyed by great leadership and an impressive cohort of students whose inclusivity, goodwill, and genuine passion for bringing out the best in each other have enabled 2025 to be a year of rich and varied successes. These successes aren’t easily captured quantitatively; rather, they are found in the many moments, individual and collective, that we have each cherished. For me, these were embedded across countless settings: our new 2nd Year Chats, where I’ve enjoyed listening, learning, collaborating, and being inspired by this exceptional group; our highly successful 1st Year morning teas; the Head of College (HoC) Pod Drinks shared throughout the year; and the many casual and formal opportunities to connect. It truly has been a year of opportunity, learning, and growth.

A major focus for 2025 was increasing stakeholder engagement and building on last year’s wonderful Sydney reunion to create genuine connection points for our current students both within and beyond the College. Our Career Connect initiatives, special guests, Q&A sessions, industry breakfasts, one-on-one mentoring, and inspiring speakers at major events, have highlighted the strength, diversity, and generosity of the broader community that surrounds and supports everyone who resides here.

Colleges must grow and continually evolve to thrive, and right now is a pivotal moment for both university colleges and universities more broadly with the introduction of the Universities Accord, better known as The Code

The Code, recently passed through the Senate and Lower House, has been introduced by the Federal Minister for Education. Its implementation next year will place an important spotlight on universities and colleges across Australia, examining their educational structures, cultures, safety initiatives, compliance, and policies, particularly in relation to harmful behaviours and gender-based violence. We welcome The Code and feel confident that we are well positioned to continue providing an environment that is not only compliant but, more importantly, one in which students and staff feel they can thrive within a safe, inclusive, and supportive ‘home away from home’. At the same time, we recognise that improvement is always possible, and we are committed to meeting that challenge together as one community grounded in care and aspiration.

In the spirit of connection, 2026 marks a milestone year as we celebrate 50 years of women residing at John XXIII College.

I encourage you to read the article in this edition of The Pelican about Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years Illustra honours 50 women, nominated by our community, who have made remarkable contributions across industry, service, leadership, and philanthropy in their journeys beyond college and university life. As you will read, we will mark this special moment with the unveiling of their portraits in the College foyer, a legacy project of pride and empowerment for years to come.

The excitement continues in 2027 as we celebrate 60 years of John XXIII College, another significant milestone. We look forward to sharing more in the lead-up to this special anniversary.

Finally, it would be remiss of me not to thank our student leadership team for the extraordinary work they have done this year in embedding great culture, creating strong and safe structures of support, and nurturing a genuinely caring and invested community that will leave a lasting legacy. My heartfelt thanks go to our student executive, led so ably by Vice-President Lucy West and President Hugo Bennett. I also extend my gratitude to our committed staff for their invaluable work across so many portfolios. And I want to express deep thanks to the Johns Ex-Ressie Alumni (JERA) Committee for their selfless contributions throughout the year, and to our College Board, particularly Mr Geoff Kimpton, Chair of the Finance Committee, and our Board Chairman, Mr John Harris, for their vision, diligence, and authentic leadership.

I wish everyone a safe, happy, and holy Christmas surrounded by family and friends, and I look forward to sharing in more successes together as we celebrate this milestone year - 50 Years of Women at Johns.

Jason (Jas) Lincoln Head of College

Head of College Jas Lincoln

COLLEGE BOARD CHAIRMAN John Harris

OUR CHAIRMAN OUTLINES WHAT THE NEW NATIONAL CODE FOR UNIVERSITY COLLEGES WILL MEAN FOR JOHN XXIII COLLEGE MOVING FORWARD AND REFLECTS ON A TURBULENT YEAR FOR ANU AND THE SECTOR.

It has been a troubled year for the ANU, and for many other universities across Australia. Financial reality has bitten deeply, income from activities has stalled or fallen, government subsidies have not met the shortfall, and courses or programs have been lost. The staff of the ANU and its academic cohort have been deeply upset, and our ViceChancellor has departed abruptly. I note that all of the above has played out crudely in the national press.

To the best of my knowledge, these ructions at a high level have not significantly disturbed the student body excessively, and most undergraduate coursework has proceeded normally. If any student in our College feels that they have been disadvantaged, then they should raise their concerns with College staff and we will support them in whatever way we can. We may not be able to change the broad movements of the universe, but we try hard to improve the destiny of every person in our College.

It seems to be a time of broad national uncertainty and change. It often happens that good results emerge from the flux of troubled times. Which brings me to the National Code for University Colleges. This program, which many people have probably not yet heard of, came to fruition this year with the passage through the Australian Parliament of the Universities Accord (National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence) Bill 2025. It is quite a mouthful of an Act and it includes much more than the title suggests. It applies to every University College in Australia and will produce a National Code which will establish best practice standards across several areas relating to student wellbeing which cover all aspects of managing a safe university college.

University Colleges Australia, the body which represents all colleges, is currently working on the programs and plans to be implemented in each College so that they all comply with the legislation.

The good news is that John XXIII College has already implemented programs quite a few years ago which would appear to be fully compliant and, in that sense, we are well ahead of the game. Needless to say, our programs are about respect, consent, responsibility in actions, and community wellbeing – which all of our current student members will know a great deal about.

However, despite the fact that we have been doing most of this stuff for a long time, there will still be changes required to comply with the new National Code. One of the most significant changes is that all serious student discipline matters will go to a special body at the ANU and will not be handled in-house. A second significant change is that within 48 hours of a student incident disclosure, a risk assessment, investigation, and misconduct process must be undertaken. There may be more changes as the National Code is developed.

You may be assured that John XXIII College will embrace the Code and implement it as it is introduced. We may change some existing practices and enhance others but our existing systems look to be largely compliant and in accordance with the principles of the Code. We very firmly hope that the implementation of the Code does not become a “boxticking” exercise at any level of compliance and is firmly focused on student welfare, because that is what we are focused on. Watch this space for more details in the months to come.

College staff, the Board, student representatives, and our student body will come to hear much more about the National Code as it is rolled out over the next year. As always, John XXIII College does not fear positive change, we intend to embrace it and lead it. On behalf of our College Board, I sincerely hope that all our students had a very fulfilling and successful year in 2025.

John Harris College Board Chairman

GROWING A CONNECTED, COURAGEOUS COMMUNITY AT JOHNS

DEPUTY HEAD OF COLLEGEDee Marrapodi

AS WE WRAP UP ANOTHER BIG YEAR AT JOHN XXIII COLLEGE, IT’S A JOY TO PAUSE AND RECOGNISE THE MANY WAYS OUR COMMUNITY HAS GROWN ON THE FIELD, ON STAGE, IN THE TUTORIAL ROOM, AND IN THE QUIET EVERYDAY MOMENTS OF LOOKING OUT FOR ONE ANOTHER.

What follows is a snapshot of some of the highlights from across 2025 that speak to the heart of who we are becoming together.

A College that Shows Up for Each Other

This year we’ve seen a real step-change in participation and connection. The revamped Corridor Cup has been a standout, evolving from a sportsonly contest into a whole-of-College celebration of Sport, Academics, Arts and Charity. With everything from Touch and Dodgeball to Arts Debates and POD Charity Challenges, the competition has strengthened corridor identity while also drawing in residents who might not usually see themselves as “sporty” or “competitive”.

Alongside this, the Resident’s Association has delivered a vibrant social calendar from RA Ball and Barn Dance through to mixers and smaller, low-key events. These haven’t just been “fun nights out”; they’ve been important touchpoints where friendships deepen, new residents feel welcomed and returning residents rediscover why Johns feels like home.

Our Dessie Program, championed by Penny and supported by an incredible 120+ volunteers, has quietly transformed the way we look out for each other in social spaces. Dessies are now a core part of Johns culture, a visible reminder that fun and care can (and should) go hand-in-hand.

Creativity, Performance and Pride

2025 has also been a big year for Arts and performance. Under Laura’s leadership, more than 70 residents have represented Johns in Interhall Arts competition, with impressive results across Dance, Poetry Slam, Public Speaking, Spelling Bee and Creative Writing.

Our annual College Production – Don’t Dress for Dinner staged at Belconnen Arts Centre during Parents’ Weekend, was another highlight. A fully studentled cast and crew delivered a polished, hilarious and high-energy show that perfectly captured the talent, commitment and camaraderie that exist within the College.

These achievements matter not just because of the trophies and rankings, but because they provide spaces for residents to explore creativity, take risks, and discover new strengths.

The Pelican | Semester 2, 2025 Deputy Head of College Dee Marrapodi

Sport, Grit and Team Spirit

On the sporting front, Johns has continued to punch well above its weight. Over 170 residents have proudly worn the College colours in Interhall Sport, with notable podium finishes in Mixed and Men’s Netball, Women’s Netball, Dodgeball and Wheelchair Basketball.

Inward Bound (IB) was another high point. Johns fielded teams in all seven divisions plus Division X, as well as three Ex-Ressie teams and every team completed the event. A huge supporter turnout at End Point created an atmosphere of shared pride and genuine community spirit. Finishing 4th overall was the icing on the cake.

Behind these results sits a dedicated coaching and coordination group who have provided structured training, thoughtful preparation and a wonderfully inclusive team environment.

9 The Pelican | Semester 2, 2025

Deputy Head of College Dee Marrapodi

GROWING A CONNECTED, COURAGEOUS COMMUNITY AT JOHNS

Learning Together: Academic Mentors & Nerd Nights

Academically, 2025 has seen strong outcomes and growing engagement with our support programs. In Semester 1, 36% of residents achieved a Distinction or High Distinction average, a fantastic reflection of the effort, discipline and peer support at play in our community.

Nerd Night has become a genuine fixture in the weekly rhythm of the College, regularly attracting 60–80 residents. What began as a “study night” has evolved into a powerful blend of academic support and wellbeing, a space where students work alongside each other, share challenges, swap tips, and quietly keep each other accountable.

Our Academic Mentor (AM) team has expanded its offering to include tutorials, drop-in support, targeted exam preparation, and academic skills workshops. Looking ahead to 2026, this program will continue to sharpen its focus on proactive, discipline-aligned support and small study communities, with ongoing check-ins for students identified as at risk.

Wellbeing, Counselling and Quiet Acts of Care

Behind the scenes, our Counselling and Wellbeing programs have provided a steady anchor for many students this year. Over 90 residents have accessed counselling across more than 200 sessions, with a growing number of self and peer referrals, a positive indicator that seeking help is becoming normalised and supported within the community.

Weekly baking sessions, movie nights, low-key social offerings and N/O-Week wellbeing activities have given residents accessible ways to connect, decompress and find their people. These seemingly “small” initiatives often have a big impact, particularly for those who find loud or alcoholfocused environments challenging.

Our Support Resident (SR) team continues to play a critical role in the everyday fabric of College life from POD checkins and coffee catchups to buddying mid-year entrants and responding calmly in moments of need. The POD system is now so embedded that many residents forget life before it, which is perhaps the strongest endorsement we could hope for.

A Stronger, More Unified Community

One of the most encouraging threads across both semesters has been the continued improvement in community standards and mutual respect. Behavioural incidents have remained low, and when issues have arisen, residents and leaders alike have worked constructively with staff to address them.

Just as importantly, we’re seeing more students step forward early, whether for academic support, wellbeing, or help navigating relationships and transitions. This willingness to ask for help, and to offer it, is a defining strength of Johns.

As we look ahead to 2026, Student Services will continue to build on these foundations:

• refining leadership training and mentoring

• deepening academic and wellbeing support

• strengthening early identification frameworks for residents of concern

• and continuing to ask, honestly and courageously, how we can be an even more inclusive, caring and highperforming community.

To every resident, leader, mentor, volunteer, supporter, and staff member who has contributed to this year:

Thank you!

Your efforts, seen and unseen, are what make Johns more than just a place to live. They make it a community to belong to.

Dee Marrapodi Deputy Head of College

Deputy Head of College Dee Marrapodi

The Pelican | Semester 2, 2025

Deputy Head of College Dee Marrapodi

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Hugo Bennett

IT SEEMED VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE FOR LIFE AT JOHNS TO HAVE GOTTEN ANY MORE HECTIC THAN SEMESTER ONE, BUT IT’S SAFE TO SAY SEMESTER TWO MANAGED TO DO JUST THAT.

With sport, art, social events, and even a little bit of study, there has been no shortage of things to manage throughout the back half of the year. What’s made this semester so special though is the continued energy and buy-in from everyone across the community, proof that the culture built in semester one has not only endured but flourished.

The semester began with Academic Dinner, a night very fittingly celebrating the achievements of residents from semester one. A testament to everyone’s ability to ‘lock in’ alongside the Academic Mentor’s continued efforts in helping ressies with difficult subjects. The formal tone of the evening was balanced with genuine warmth and was a reflection of Johns’ appreciation for hard work and shared success.

That sense of celebration continued into what is always a highlight of the semester and year with the Johns Ball. Themed Winter Wonderland and held at the Hellenic Club in Woden, the event was great fun. It was lovely to see so many guests come down as the energy from the evening set a wonderful tone for the rest of the semester. However not long after came Parents Weekend, which despite the big ask, managed to eclipse Ball as a truly college-wide highlight of the year.

The weekend began with the production of Don’t Dress for Dinner, directed by Archie Allen and Matt Shield-Dick. The tangled relationships and clever one-liners were performed brilliantly by the entire cast who had evidently put in countless hours of work, with standout performances from Oscar Corah, Mia Costa, and Ollie Moore. The ‘Parents Ball’, hosted at the National Museum, was equally as memorable. Having virtually the entire Johns community in one room is no mean feat, and its success was a was a heart-warming reminder of how much the wider Johns family contributes to the vibrancy of college life.

On the social front, Wedding Night and Barn Dance have been memorable for me. Wedding Night, a Johns tradition that has evolved over the last three years was once considered a smaller, ‘optional event’, and has become a big moment on the social calendar where humour and the happy-golucky side of college comes out. I must congratulate Sean and Lucia on their happy marriage. Barn Dance provided a perfect finale to the social calendar for 2025. With the warmer weather and comfortability of a year’s worth of friendships and memories, the night had a nice full circle feel about it.

Amongst all this is my absolute highlight for the semester, year, and my time at Johns of Inward Bound (IB). After months of training, including six-hour rogaines, countless blind drops, and far too many trips to Paddy Pallin, it was incredible to be part of such a unified and determined team. For the first time since 2019, Johns had all seven teams finish the race, a remarkable achievement given the immense navigational and physical challenges of running for over twelve hours.

I was lucky enough to run alongside Molly, Oscar, and Charlie in Div 5, and despite a few too many river crossings and meters of elevation, there were many highlights, namely a beautiful sunrise over the South Coast and Batemans Bay.

As much as running is rewarding, the day wouldn’t have been nearly as special without the incredible support from residents and parents who came to end point, a real example of genuine excitement and spirit that Johns ressies have for each other.

Hugo Bennett on the Inward Bound community experience.

Harry

Hugo and

in Vienna watching Euro soccer in 2024.

Beyond the major events, semester two was equally rich in smaller but deeply meaningful initiatives. The continuation of POD dinners, SRC coffee catchups and art competitions made for a well-rounded semester while the leadership application process gave many residents an opportunity to reflect on how they might contribute to Johns’ future. I am so grateful for the momentous year-long effort of the student leadership team, in particular the Vice-President Lucy West for her warmth and enduring support of the Residents Association and entire college.

Despite us students’ best efforts, we would be nowhere without the college staff. Their genuine support is the backbone of the community and it allows many of the opportunities and experiences at Johns to thrive. Amongst all the staff I give a special thanks to Jas, Dee, Lachie and Ollie along with all the ‘office mums’ (Will Ward included) for their support in making Johns not just a college, but a real home.

Overall 2025 has been a hugely successful year. It has been filled with a genuine appreciation for the biggest and smallest moments and I am incredibly proud of all the ressies efforts to make the most of what’s on offer.

I wish everyone a happy holiday and Merry Christmas and I look forward to watching the new heights this community reaches in the coming years.

Hugo Bennett President

First Johns ball in 2023 with Liv and Archie.

President’s

Hugo Bennett

RESIDENTS Association Ball

RA BALL 2025

FIRST YEARWrite Up

IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE HOW QUICKLY THE YEAR HAS FLOWN BY, FROM WALKING INTO JOHN’S ON THAT FIRST DAY, KNOWING NO ONE, TO OUR LAST MOMENTS OF TERM 4, IT’S BEEN A WHIRLWIND OF LAUGHTER, FRIENDSHIP AND UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES.

Whether it was learning line dancing on Barn Night, out on the court playing sport for Johns, or simply sitting around the dinner table, every moment this year at college has shown me the incredible family that we have here at John’s, and how lucky we all are to be just a small part of it.

Term 3 saw us head out to the Hellenic Club for our Ball, a chance to see everyone dressed to impress in celebration of our wonderful community. The ball awards were a cheeky and fun way to celebrate the lasting impact that has been made by some of our first years, particularly in finding strong friendship groups that will last a lifetime, climbing from strangers to family in just one year. Parents weekend, with the amazing play, as well as a cocktail evening at the National Museum, provided a great opportunity to showcase all facets of our Johns life.

Sport has been just as exciting, with fierce competition continuing in the Corridor Cup with netball, soccer, and disc. Playing sport alongside the rest of your corridor in some friendly competition was a great way to keep active and in good stead for our ISO. This year, after a dominant win in the mixed netball grand final, the last event of the year, Johns was able to sneak past Wright to finish second overall, a huge effort from everyone involved. Whether playing or cheering court side, the John’s spirit was felt by all in attendance and was a huge factor in our final position.

Beyond all this, we are, of course, here for university. JCR study sessions (which often involved a lot of talking and little study), tutorials with our wonderful AMs and nerd night ensured that everyone kept up to date and performing at their best.

The late-night sessions, the morning walks to tutorials, the collective panic before big deadlines reminded us that we were all in this together, and we were all there for each other.

Our first year at college has certainly been one to remember. Experiences, friendships and a community that will last a lifetime. None of this would have been possible without the incredible leadership and support of our staff and student leaders, who made every event, training and celebration run seamlessly. Their commitment and enthusiasm set the tone for what has truly been an amazing year, and I cannot wait for next year, for the next chapter on our John’s journey.

Matt Callaghan First Year Student

SECOND YEAR Write Up

AS MY

SECOND YEAR AT

JOHN’S COMES TO A CLOSE, ITS SAFE TO SAY I HAVE LEARNT A LOT.

I have learnt how to maintain a balance of friendship, work and study, I have learnt how to be confident and give everything a go and most importantly I have learnt how to be myself.

I came to John’s at the beginning of 2024. Before arriving, I already knew many girls who were going from my school. However, I really wanted to broaden my friendship circle and make sure I met new people, and made new friends, rather than just staying in thew same comfortable group I’d always been in. John’s made that easy, through the structure of college, especially the idea of ‘pods’ and corridors which brought us together with people we might have not met otherwise. It assisted in creating a sense of community and made me feel at ease with the people living around us.

When I first arrived at Johns, my first memory was meeting the 2024 leadership team which was made up of both second year and third year residents. I can still picture stepping out of the car after my mum parked, walking in alone and feeling more nervous than ever. But the warm greetings and the leadership team offering to carry my bags instantly eased my nerves. In that moment, I genuinely felt like this place could become my new home. That experience was pivotal for me. It showed just how powerful and contagious John’s welcoming

atmosphere is, and it inspired me to want to pass on that same energy to others. That’s why I applied for the role of Communications Officer for 2025. To capture this incredible environment we live in, and showcase that both internally and externally.

One moment that really stayed with me was out first Women’s chat by the 2024 Women’s rep. She emphasised the great importance of forming genuine relationships and how we would foster these friendships for years - looking back on this at the end of 2025, I can happily say she was right. I see my friendships that I have made with both the girls and the guys, as more than just friends, but rather I see them as my family. As the people I can always go to, the people I trust and share a lot with, as cliche as it sounds, I have found a second family here at Johns.

My first year was all about finding my own way, and I saw my second year as the opportunity to help others find theirs. My second year at college was genuinely one of the best years of my life. First year was riveting and exciting, yet the second year was much more comfortable and I felt a sense of belonging. I came into my second year at college with a completely different mindset than first year… less focused on settling myself, and more focused on supporting the new first years and contributing to the community that had already given me so much.

My role completely transformed my experience at John’s for the better. It’s not that I wasn’t involved before, I had already played the sports and cheered at the finals. However, the level of involvement I had this year grew massively because of the position. I got to be at every game, every practice rehearsal, and every event even the differing pres rooms!!

I got to see the talent of John’s up close, the spirit, the determination, the hours of training and teamwork. One of the best things about my role, was being able to capture the genuine joy, friendships, and welcoming community that define John’s. Honestly, I have come to realise in my second year that it’s the little things that make this place special… the smiling faces on the sidelines, the pod catch-ups, the friendships forming in real time.

Being able to witness this has been truly meaningful, and it reminded me every day why I love this community so much.

Second Year Student

Sophie Kemp

THIRD YEAR Write Up

IT FEELS LIKE ONLY YESTERDAY WE WERE MOVING INTO JOHNS FOR THE FIRST TIME AND NOW IT’S NEARLY TIME TO SAY GOODBYE. HOW LUCKY ARE WE TO HAVE SOMETHING THAT MAKES SAYING GOODBYE SO HARD.

From the excitement of first year to the fun of third year leadership, Johns has been a true home away from home.

I remember pulling up to the front of Johns on move in day, all the new faces and things to learn like what ‘OTB’ and ‘OTF’ meant, we were so unaware of how quickly this place would become a part of who we are. To think about the corridors we once got lost in now hold so many memories and the dino which was once our worst nightmare has now become the backdrop of some of the most generational conversations for countless laughs and debriefs (you know it's been a good dinner when the kitchen staff start to mop the floors and you’re still there). We’ve survived everything from fire alarms at 3 am, hospital trips and pulling all nighters for assignments.

The first two years at Johns for us were somewhat rocky but we are so glad we stuck it out. Johns made it all a little bit easier to thrive and see it through, with the support of the staff, the leaders and all the great events, sport and communal spaces. The memories we have made are irreplaceable and hard to come by, it's not everyday you get to attend a wedding in the JCR, go on a mud obstacle course or cruise around lake burley griffin on a boat with your best mates.

This year has been different, not just because we’ve grown older but because we have had the chance to give back. Third year leadership being an SR and SRC member respectively has shown us how much effort, heart and humour go into keeping Johns the place we fell in love with. Whether it was helping the freshers find their feet, sober repping an event you once demolished or just being a familiar face when someone needed a chat, we’ve learned that leadership at Johns isn’t about titles, it is about community.

We’ve also learned that you don’t stop making memories just because you’re in third year. We have been lucky enough to become friends with some of the best people, people we didn’t have the opportunity to interact closely with in first and second year.

It's crazy to look back and see how much can change in a year and we are so lucky to have met some of our best mates who we will keep for life. Johns gives you a place to belong, but more than that, it gives you people who make you better, funnier and stronger than you thought you could be. There is nothing like pulling up to dinner after a terrible day and immediately turning your mood around due to the ridiculous conversations occurring at the dinner table.

The list of things we will miss at Johns is long. From the simple things like the zip taps, study spaces and laundry to the printer fairies, events and constantly seeing your mates. Johns has given us the kind of memories that don’t fade easily, like the nights that start as “just one drink” or those quieter nights where we’d watch a movie, realising that this place had become home.

As we pack up our rooms and prepare to leave, it’s strange to think how many versions of ourselves we have within these walls. From shy first years to third year leaders, the Johns community has seen us through everything. If we could go back and tell our first year selves one thing it would be to not take the small things for granted and to take every day as it comes (and probably to lock in on uni a little more).

So here’s to Johns, to the memories we have made, the people who’ve shaped us and the place that will always feel like home no matter where we go next.

To everyone still here, don’t blink, it really does go faster than you think. Go to every event, show up to all the sports and never say no to an opportunity because before you know it, you’ll be the ones writing this, wondering how the years disappeared so fast.

See you around,

Scarlett and Molly Third Year Students

THIRD YEARFarewell

JOHN XXIII COLLEGE COMMUNITY GATHERED TO CELEBRATE AND FONDLY FAREWELL OUR REMARKABLE THIRD-YEAR STUDENTS AND THE 2026 LEADERSHIP TEAM.

It was an evening filled with warmth, reflection and heartfelt gratitude for a cohort that has shaped the spirit, culture and heartbeat of Johns in ways that will be remembered long after they’ve moved beyond College grounds.

RA President Hugo Bennett delivered a moving farewell, capturing the essence of a group whose journey has been marked by highs, challenges, laughter and unwavering commitment. He reflected on the moments big and small that defined their time at Johns, honouring a cohort who consistently showed up for one another and embodied what true leadership and community look like.

Head Support Resident Hayden O’Brien shared his own reflections with honesty and affection, speaking to the friendships strengthened and solidified over the past year. With a nod to the stories, the late-night chats and even the occasional bit of harmless gossip, he reminded everyone that it is these bonds that make the Johns community so enduring and so unique.

To close the evening, Head of College Jas Lincoln expressed his gratitude and pride, acknowledging the legacy this group leaves behind. He offered his best wishes as they step into new chapters, reassuring them that no matter where they go, they will always have a place within the Johns family.

To our departing third years and our student leaders: thank you. Your presence, your energy and your contributions have left an indelible mark on our community. Johns is better because of you, and we cannot wait to see where your next chapter takes you.

Third Year Farewell

VALETE Dinner

THE COLLEGE COMMUNITY GATHERED FOR VALETE, ONE OF THE MOST TREASURED EVENTS OF THE YEAR, COMING TOGETHER TO HONOUR OUR 2025 LEAVERS, SHARE MEMORIES, AND ACKNOWLEDGE THE JOURNEY THAT SHAPED THEIR TIME AT JOHNS.

The evening was filled with reflection, laughter, and a deep sense of connection, hallmarks of the community our students help to build year after year.

We were privileged to welcome guest speaker and alumnus Lachlan Arthur, whose inspiring words reminded us of the lasting bonds forged through the Johns experience. His insights into life beyond College resonated strongly, offering encouragement and perspective to those stepping into new chapters.

The night also featured a heartfelt farewell from 2025 College President, Hugo Bennett, who reflected on the achievements of the year, the collective resilience of the community, and the enduring spirit that continues to define College life. Hugo’s address also warmly welcomed the incoming student leaders, including 2026 College President, Penny Friend, encouraging them as they prepare to guide the next chapter of the Johns story.

Valete

Valete

CONGRATULATIONS 2025 Award Recipients

These students exemplify the values at the heart of College life: gratitude, respect, integrity, empathy, courage, and inclusivity. Their contributions have left an indelible mark on our community, and their influence will be felt long after they leave the College gates.

We’d also like to extend our congratulations to Ellie Austin, who received the Outstanding First Year Award and, although unable to attend the dinner, is wholeheartedly recognised for her achievement.

MATT CALLAGHAN

LAURA PENNING

PENNY FRIEND

TED LAUKKA

OLLIE MOORE

Supporter of the Year

Spirit of Johns Collegiate of the Year

Outstanding Second Year

Outstanding First Year

Outstanding Third Year

To our 2025 leavers: thank you for the energy, passion, and heart you have brought to Johns. As you step into the wider world and join our alumni community, we look forward to seeing how your unique Johns story continues to unfold. Your time here may be ending, but you will always remain part of the fabric of this College.

Valete Awards Dinner

ACADEMICAwards

SEMESTER 1 ACADEMIC AWARDS WERE HOSTED BY OUR HEAD ACADEMIC MENTORS - CHARLIE SIMMONDS AND JESSE NOAD, RECOGNISING STUDENTS WHOSE COMMITMENT TO LEARNING AND ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE REFLECTS THE BEST OF THE COLLEGE’S VALUES.

From a cohort of 315 students, 113 residents were recognised (= 36% of our College), 20 earned a High Distinction average and 93 achieved a Distinction average. This impressive performance highlights the ongoing strong culture of scholarly ambition, mutual support, and determination within the College community.

Awards were presented by the Academic Mentors (AMs), Board Members - Michael Lee, Anna Masters and Board Chair John Harris and special guests Casey and Carmen White (sponsors of the Infinity Medal).

High Distinction Averages

Zoe Paul, Stephanie Buys, Raechel McKinnon, Joshua Riddle, Edward Brown, Louis Ross, Jessica Millin, Harriet Hughes, Zachary Brown, Freya Mckinley-Rowe, Amelia Dowe, Darcy Mansul, Stephen Clarke, Yushan Gao, Jessica Hayhoe, Scarlett Edyvean, Maggie Anderson, Thomas Skeffington, Emily Webb, Oliver Moore

Distinction Averages

James Ritchie, Milla Brown, Kristen Deller, Jasmine Evans, Aimee Hosegood, Lola Debell, Xavier Butler, Juliet Borean, Rongting Sun, Hamish Hammerton, Laura Flack, Milla Frlan, Jasmyn Bull, Joseph Bartram, Pippa Barnes, Luke Berry, Lily Coombe, Cormac O'Callaghan, Lucy Finlayson, Tara Collins, James Northcote, Sophie Paton, Zoe Crabbe, Grace Khoury, Jesse Noad, Benjamin Fairbrother, Kenzie Clews, Sophie Gale, Ethan Hansen, Hugo Bennett, Olivia Larcombe, Alexandra Seal, Luella Tobin, Zara Sweetman, Darcy Robertson, Halle Doyle, Oscar McMillan, Francesca Burke, Aerin Slater, Emerson Aurisch, Gracie Bottomley, Isabelle Richardson, Sophie Osmond, Toby Sawyer, Cam Tregaskis, Madeleine Begg, Matilda Crocker, Phoebe Oayda, Stephanie Lee, Emi Lennon, Jemima Thibault, Laura Penning, Poppy Mayo, Alison Bolt, Isabel McCaughey, Jack Levinson, Morgan Wixted, Nicholas Einoder, Ching Kwan Huang, Lauren Peach, Annabelle Gillard, Elise Willett, Lucy West, Ben Vanstone, Holly Alder, James Collier, Scarlett Blamey, Jack Hawksley, Lucia Haan, Hayden O'Brien, Kitty Foley, Oscar Corah, Charlie Simmonds, Olivia Miller, Stella Hopkins, Zachary Yap, Anouk Bennett, Hugo Buller, Matilda Corsham, Rosie Oxley, Holly Thompson, Matthew Callaghan, Athena Hinton, Charles Langdon, Isabel Mellor, Thomas Aylward, Charlie Mitchell, Lily van Son, Anna Burt, Edward Laukka, Lachlan Simmonds, Oscar Head, Oscar Veitch

The Accies – Golden Gnome Awards

Each Academic Mentor selected students who, in their view, had gone above and beyond academically during the semester:

Jesse

Jaz Bull

Charlie Hermoine Campbell

Harriet

James Cooper

Gracie

Indi Sinclair

Jack Jimmy Hilsdon

Zach Charlie Mitchell

Special Awards

Biggest Nerd Award

Lola Debell

James Cormac O'Callaghan

Jess Millin

Freya McKinley-Rowe

Ethan Ned Brown

Ben Maddie Begg

Stephen Louis Ross

For consistent dedication to Wednesday Nerd Nights.

Firetruck Award

Zoe Paul

For “putting out academic fires” and mentoring peers without holding an official AM role.

Piggy (HAM – Head Academic Mentor) Award

Recognising an all-rounder who excels academically and in all areas of College life.

Nominees: Freya McKinley-Rowe, Ollie Moore, Ben Vanstone, Ali Bolt, Tom Skeffington.

Winner: Milla Brown.

Highest Achievers in Individual Courses

Several students stood out for exceptional results in their respective subjects:

Cormac O’Callaghan & Luke Berry Australian Public Law

Josh Riddle Chemistry 1

Freya McKinley-Rowe Foundations of Australian Law

Carlos Wrongting Torts

Oscar McMillin Introduction to Politics

Jess Millin LAWS 1205, International Political Economy

Ned Brown

Quantitative Research Methods

Louis Ross Physics 1

James Northcote Public Choice and Politics

Top WAM Achievers by University

Raechal McKinnon

Australian Catholic University (ACU)

Sophie Paton University of Canberra (UC)

Stephanie Buys Australian National University (ANU)

Infinity Medal – The White Family Award

The Infinity Medal - The White Family Award was presented to:

Penny Friend

This honour recognises an individual who has made a clear and lasting impact on College life through consistent, purpose-driven contributions. Acting out of genuine care rather than seeking recognition, Penny has demonstrated measurable influence, uplifted others with a quiet but powerful presence, and lived out the College’s values of Gratitude, Respect, Integrity, Courage, Empathy, and Inclusivity every day.

The Academic Dinner was more than a night of awards, it was a celebration of the determination, generosity, and community spirit that defines John XXIII College.

Behind every academic achievement is a network of support: peers, academic mentors, student services and the whole College community, encouraging one another to strive for their best. Head of College Jas Lincoln.

CHARITY at Johns

THIS SEMESTER HAS BEEN ANOTHER AMAZING CHAPTER FOR CHARITY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AT JOHNS.

We kicked off with our annual Father’s Day Lunch, where residents, parents, and staff came together to celebrate the important people in our lives. We also held a raffle during the event, and thanks to the generosity of our community, we raised an incredible $5,425 toward our 2026 Country Education Foundation Scholarships. These scholarships will support rural and regional students in accessing further education, continuing a cause close to the heart of our College community.

We also continued our involvement with the Vinnies Roadhouse, building on the momentum from last year. Throughout the semester, over 30 Johns residents volunteered their time, working together to provide groceries to those experiencing homelessness, serve tea and coffee, and sort clothing donations. It has been a wonderful opportunity for residents to connect with the broader Canberra community and offer practical support to people in need.

Our fundraising efforts also reached new heights this semester. Across October, residents took part in the Black Dog Institute Walk, challenging themselves to run or walk up to 250km over the month to raise money for mental health research.

We also took on Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge, a charity run by Nedd Brockmann, who paid a visit to Johns earlier this year. Residents committed to doing something uncomfortable every day for 10 days straight (from cold showers, to running 10km daily), pushing themselves mentally and physically. Overall, Johns raised over $6,000 toward mental health research and homelessness prevention.

We finished the year strong with Movember, where many male residents participated in the 24-hour rowing marathon on Kambri alongside the ANU Movember ambassador team, led by one of our very own former ressies. Together, the ANU team raised over $10,000 for men’s mental health – and even had the chance to meet David Pocock!

Overall, more than 80 Johns residents volunteered this year, and, as a college, we raised over $20,000 for a range of charities. Reflecting on the year, I feel incredibly grateful to have been able to support and encourage charity and service at Johns. Being able to help create opportunities for residents to give back has been a privilege. Can’t wait to see what Scarlett brings next year!

Isabel McCaughey

David Pocock came to support the 24-hour rowing marathon, in support of Movember.

The Pelican | Semester 2, 2025

Charity at Johns Isabel McCaughey

A HEART FOR Community

THE HUMANITARIAN WORK OF STAFF MEMBER THIN THIN KHINE

WHEN YOU MEET THIN THIN KHINE, IN THE DINING HALL AT JOHNS, YOU MEET SOMEONE GENTLE, HUMBLE, AND FULL OF QUIET STRENGTH. BUT BEHIND HER SOFTSPOKEN NATURE IS A STORY DEFINED BY EXTRAORDINARY RESILIENCE AND A LOVE FOR HER COMMUNITY SO DEEP THAT IT HAS SHAPED EVERY CHAPTER OF HER LIFE.

Thin Thin’s early childhood in Burma was warm and ordinary in all the best ways. Days were filled with family, neighbours, and the rhythms of daily life. But in 1988, everything shifted. Conflict took hold (conflict that still continues) and life changed almost overnight. Thin Thin remembers how communities leaned on each other to get through the uncertainty.

“We helped each other. That’s how we stayed strong.”

As the situation grew more dangerous, she made the difficult choice to flee for safety. Her journey through the jungle to Thailand took 13 days, a journey made even more remarkable because she was heavily pregnant.

What came next is the moment that still brings emotion to her voice. Thin Thin gave birth to her eldest daughter in the middle of the jungle, with the sounds of conflict echoing around her. No medical support. No family around. Only courage, instinct, and a fierce determination to protect her child.

“You just do what you have to do,” she says softly. “I held her and told her we would be safe. I didn’t know how, but I believed it.”

She carried her newborn daughter the rest of the way to safety, a moment that continues to guide the way she sees the world. “I’m safe now,” she says. “But many people I love are still living with fear. That’s why I give back.”

Today, even from Australia, Thin Thin continues supporting families in Burma through the Humanitarian Development Foundation. One day, she helped provide rice for 1,500 families, something she funded largely herself. “I’m not rich,” she says with a small, warm smile. “But I share what I have because I can.”

Her belief is simple: compassion is powerful.

Small acts matter. Even kindness can make someone feel less alone.

Thin Thin Khine on the importance of charity.

For students or colleagues who want to help but don’t know where to begin, her advice is gentle and encouraging.

“Start small. Start with what you have. The heart behind it is what counts.”

At John XXIII College, Thin Thin brings that same generosity, steadiness and quiet bravery.

Her story is a reminder that resilience can be born in the hardest places, and that when someone chooses compassion over fear, they don’t just survive; they lift others with them.

And sometimes, the strongest people are the ones who simply keep caring.

NEDD’S UNCOMFORTABLE Challenge

OUR STUDENTS HAVE ONCE AGAIN SHOWN THEIR COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL IMPACT.

This year, 23 of our community participated in the Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge 2025, raising an incredible $3,921 for We Are Mobilise, a charity supporting people experiencing homelessness.

We Are Mobilise provides safe, stable housing and critical support for individuals transitioning out of homelessness. Every dollar raised has a real impact: $36 provides one night of housing, $250 covers a week, and $1,000 supports a month of stability. Through the challenge, J23 residents have helped people take crucial steps toward security, independence, and dignity.

Special mention to our top fundraisers who went over and above:

• James Miller

• Ollie Grimble

• Joshua Riddle

• Eva Kenwood

The college community is deeply grateful to all residents, alumni, parents, staff, and friends who contributed. While the challenge has concluded, donations are still welcome to help extend this life-changing support.

Johns is proud to celebrate the courage, creativity, and compassion of its residents. Your contributions aren’t just numbers, they are lives changed.

Nedd Brockmann’s

MY J23Story

HAYDEN O’BRIEN’S TIME AT THE COLLEGE HAS BEEN DEFINED BY HIS UNWAVERING KINDNESS, FRIENDLY LEADERSHIP AND DEEP COMMITMENT TO THE JOHN’S COMMUNITY.

As a third year resident, Hayden has played an integral role over the past few years in shaping the culture of care, respect and inclusion that defines our College. In his 2 years as a support resident, including this year as one of the Head Support Resident’s, he has supported countless students through both the everyday and the challenging, always leading with calm compassion and a quiet confidence.

Beyond the College, Hayden has brought that same drive and commitment to service in the wider university community. He has served for two years on the ANU Students’ Association (ANUSA) including this year as its Treasurer. In this role, he has expanded services that the union provides to ANU Students and represented the interests of our Johns ressies both at the ANU level and nationally.

During this year's federal election, Hayden spent countless hours volunteering for several candidates and contributing to the Australian Labor Party’s landmark election victory. You could often see Hayden in his red shirt early on a Saturday morning braving the cold to go support local candidates in Canberra and NSW.

From his early days growing up in Sydney and Melbourne with his mum, dad, and little brother, he was always raised to embody values that we share

HAYDEN O’BRIEN

at our college; respect, empathy, gratitude, and inclusivity. He carried these early lessons into every aspect of his life. His family’s influence is evident in the way that he treats others, and he is always regarded by students and staff alike as a bright smile even on the cloudiest of days.

What truly sets Hayden apart is his authenticity. He has a joyous and thoughtful presence that inspires confidence and trust for all he interacts with. Academically, Hayden has always managed to balance his studies with his leadership and social commitments as an active member of university life.

As Hayden wraps up his time at John’s, we honour all that he has contributed. His journey has been one of strong leadership, compassion, and deep connection that will have a lasting impact - his legacy will live on in the culture and people he helped shape.

From the moment Hayden stepped through the door of our college, it was clear he wasn’t just here to live - he was here to lead, grow and leave a mark and we wish him all the best for his future endeavours.

That’s me with Minister Kristy McBain (member for eden-monaro) and minister for a bunch of stuff at her election night party after we helped win her seat again.

My J23 Story Hayden O’Brien

MY J23Story

WHILE

MANY

SPENT THE MID-YEAR BREAK TRAVELLING OR RESTING, SECOND YEAR STUDENT, JAZ BULL SPENT HERS IN TANZANIA, TEACHING, VOLUNTEERING, AND IMMERSING HERSELF IN A CULTURE THAT CHANGED THE WAY SHE SEES THE WORLD.

What inspired you to volunteer in Tanzania, and how did the opportunity come about?

Volunteering overseas, helping disadvantaged communities is something I’ve always been interested in. The idea came into my head last year after reading the book the Resilience Project, where the author talks about taking a similar trip, volunteering in Asia and the impact it had on him. The opportunity soon came about when I talked to family friends who had volunteered with the company IVHQ in Tanzania and loved the experience. Africa is somewhere I’ve always wanted to travel to, and after researching the company and different locations I decided on Tanzania due to its beautiful landscape and being one of the safest countries in Africa to travel to by myself.

Where were you based, and what kind of work did you do day-to-day?

I was based in Arusha which is located near Mt Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti National Park, two of the most famous natural landmarks in Africa. I spent 4 weeks volunteering from Monday to Friday for 4 hours each morning. The first 2 weeks in a Women’s Empowerment/Education program called Lifted Strong, where I taught 2 lessons per day. The first lesson was always an English class and the second was up to me to decide. This included me teaching topics such as economics, nutrition, menstrual cycles, geography, and various skill classes to help them enter the work force and become more independent.

The other 2 weeks I spent volunteering in a Childcare program called Almo, where I helped the teachers with primary aged kids, and then we would spend time looking after the babies and playing games with the kids.

Both programs were not-for-profit, meaning they rely on volunteers and their donations to stay operating, providing women and children with an accessible education and resources that they otherwise wouldn’t have had.

Can you share a memorable moment or interaction that had a big impact on you?

One of the most memorable experiences I had was seeing firsthand where the donation money went and how deeply it impacted the communities. In total I managed to raise $2200, which went a long way in their currency. For the women’s empowerment program, the funds provided each girl and her family with health insurance, two years’ worth of period care packages, essential stationery, and access to skill-based classes such as cooking and sewing. Witnessing their smiles and realising that even a small contribution could make such a meaningful difference to their lives, these moments were extremely memorable and made saying goodbye hard.

The donations also supported the childcare centre, where I contributed to infrastructure improvements. This included restoring electricity by paying for new wiring and technicians, repairing water pipes, purchasing new desks, and providing timber to fix the roofs. The director was so grateful that he ensured the renovations were completed in my final days

so I could see the transformation myself. As a gesture of thanks, he even painted my name and the Australian flag on the school building. I remain incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, as their support allowed me to be part of such meaningful and lasting changes in these communities.

What was it like immersing yourself in Tanzanian culture? Did you pick up any Swahili along the way?

Immersing myself in the Tanzanian culture was surprisingly one of my favourite parts of the trip. The local people were some of the friendliest, kindest and happiest people I’ve ever met, making me feel very welcome and safe. We got to spend an afternoon experiencing and learning about the Maasai tribes, who date back to the 15th century and are known for their warrior culture and nomadic pastoral lifestyle. We engaged in their traditions including Adamu jump dancing, got dressed up in Shuka clothing, and saw communal ceremonies. I also wasn’t expecting to love and learn so much of the language Swahili, learning common phrases to help us better interact with locals. Some of my favourites included saying “Mambo” (How are you?) to which the other person replies “Poa” (Cool), “Pole Pole” (slowly slowly) which is said frequently in reference to their slow and relaxed lifestyle, and “Tupendane” (I love you).

Wildlife is also deeply ingrained in the Tanzanian culture, and we were lucky enough to spend a weekend on safari seeing the animals in their natural habitat, my favourite being the elephants. This gave me a whole new appreciation for how closely wildlife and culture are connected, being more than just tourist attracts but a part of stories, traditions and pride for their land.

What was the most challenging part of the experience — and how did you overcome it?

I think the most challenging part of my experience was partaking in the outreach program once a week during my stay. This involved going to the local market to buy a month’s worth of supplies for several people and families living in extreme poverty, then delivering the food to their homes and assisting with rent payments. Walking into their homes made of clay with no electricity or water, only a bed and a few personal belongings, was deeply confronting.

Many of the families we met were women who had been abandoned by their husbands and left to care for their children without income or support. Listening to their stories, seeing their pain, and witnessing their gratitude all at once was difficult to process, but the experience was incredibly eye-opening. After each visit, the other volunteers and I would often spend time reflecting and talking about our experience we just shared, using each other for support.

What did you learn from the local community you worked with?

From the local community I learned the power of resilience and gratitude. Although facing challenges that I could hardly imagine, the women and children I worked with radiated positivity, warmth, and generosity despite their hardships. They valued community and togetherness above material possessions, reminding me that happiness doesn’t come from what you have, but from the people you share your life with. Their slow approach to life also taught me to be present and take my time, not getting caught up in the small things or unnecessary stress.

They hand painted the Australian flag and my name on the school building wall.

How did this experience change the way you see the world, or yourself?

This experience changed the way I see both the world and myself. Seeing how eager all the women and kids were to learn made me realise how much I take my education for granted, as well as basic infrastructure and healthcare. After seeing how much a small difference can make, I came home with a stronger responsibility to use my opportunities to help others, as meaningful change doesn’t always have to come from grand gestures. On a personal level, going alone and stepping into a completely new culture gave me a lot of independence and confidence in my ability to adapt.

Is there one photo, food, or sound that instantly takes you back there?

Yes, every single day the kids and women would ask me to play the songs Waka Waka and the Macarena, dancing and singing with them in their break times. Now every time I hear those songs it reminds me of how happy they all were during those moments.

Would you recommend volunteering overseas to other students?

Yes, I would highly recommend volunteering overseas! It’s a great way to gain unique cultural experience, learning to appreciate a different lifestyle and step outside your comfort zone, something you wouldn’t otherwise experience simply through destination travel. Volunteering also allows you to give back to communities in a meaningful way and gives you so much perspective. I am especially glad I chose to do this experience solo, as it helped me learn so much about myself, yet I was still surrounded by people and able to make close friendships with people from all around the world.

What advice would you give someone thinking about a similar journey?

I would encourage anyone considering this journey to carefully research the volunteer organisation they choose, making sure it operates ethically, is transparent about where funds go, and integrates volunteers in a way that truly supports local communities. It’s also important to learn about the country, culture, and specific programs available. There are many ways to give your time, so find something you feel genuinely passionate about and where you believe your skills can add value. During my time in Tanzania, I met people who approached volunteering without much cultural sensitivity or respect, which can unintentionally cause harm. That’s why I think it’s essential to reflect on your reasons for wanting to volunteer and how you can make the experience meaningful not only for yourself, but for the people you’ll interact with. Finally, be open minded and embrace every interaction, and every opportunity to step outside your comfort zone.

MY J23Story

PROUD ‘YUIN’ (SOUTH COAST, NSW) MAN JACKSON CANNELL JOINED JOHN XXIII COLLEGE IN 2025 ON A FIRST NATIONS SCHOLARSHIP, AN OPPORTUNITY HE SAYS RESHAPED HIS ENTIRE UNIVERSITY EXPERIENCE. AFTER GRADUATING FROM MARIST COLLEGE AND STARTING AT UC, HE QUICKLY FOUND COMMUNITY, SUPPORT AND DIRECTION AT JOHNS.

NOW STUDYING BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, HIS STORY HIGHLIGHTS THE REAL IMPACT OF BELONGING AND BEING BACKED BY PEOPLE WHO GENUINELY CARE.

JACKSON CANNELL

Where are you from, and what brought you to UC and John XXIII College?

I’m a Canberra-born and raised student who attended Marist College Canberra, graduating in 2024. I chose to study at the University of Canberra because of its strong reputation for degrees within the health science industry. After finishing school, I moved into John XXIII College in 2025 and even though I missed the first four weeks of college while travelling overseas, settling in was incredibly easy.

What was it like settling into college life and what’s been the best part of being part of the Johns community?

Settling into college life at Johns could not have been easier. The best part of being a John XXIII resident is the strong sense of connection and community. There are countless shared spaces where we can study, relax, play pool or table tennis, and watch movies. Being a catered college also creates natural opportunities for everyone to spend time together at meal times. You quickly realise that everyone genuinely wants to get to know one another, which makes it such an inclusive and easy environment to be part of.

How has the First Nations Scholarship helped you while you’ve been at college?

The scholarship has truly been life changing. I originally didn’t see myself moving onto campus because it didn’t feel financially practical. Receiving the bursary made it possible for me to experience genuine university life which meant living independently, being part of a community, and taking advantage of everything college has to offer. It opened doors for me that I otherwise wouldn’t have ever considered.

Has having that support made it easier to get involved in other things, like study, sport, or community life?

Absolutely. Living at Johns has enhanced every aspect of my university experience. The college provides excellent study spaces, academic support, and a culture that motivates residents to do their best. It has also encouraged me to branch out socially and participate in college events and inter-college sports. One of the biggest academic impacts was realising I wasn’t enjoying my original degree. Staff sat down with me, listened to my goals for the future, and helped me with three potential degree options that aligned with what I wanted. I’ve since transferred into Building and Construction Management and it’s been the best decision I’ve made in my University career.

Are there any moments or people at Johns who’ve really made a difference to your experience?

There are so many. Johns has an incredibly dedicated group of student leaders and staff who make life here supportive and enjoyable. When I broke my ankle and spent eight weeks on crutches, staff members took turns driving me to campus for classes. This consists of a 30 minute round trip each time, and they did it simply because they genuinely cared. Senior residents have also played a huge role. They never treat newer students as less experienced or out of place..

My Pod Leader, Jamie Miller, made my transition especially easy. He helped me through challenges and always did his best to answer questions and look out for everyone in our hallway.

What would you say to someone thinking about donating to the John XXIII College Scholarship Fund?

I would strongly encourage anyone to donate. The scholarship fund has the power to change a student’s present and future, just as it did for me. Before receiving the bursary, I believed University was just lectures and tutorials followed by heading home. Johns showed me that university can be so much more, a community, a support network, and a place where lifelong friendships and opportunities are made. Donors help make that possible.

When you think about what’s next after uni, how do you think your time at Johns will stay with you?

After my time at Johns, I plan to move into a share house with close friends that are here, and eventually step into a career through my degree. The memories I’ve made, the friendships I’ve formed across different year groups, and the strong connections with staff will stay with me long after university.

Johns has shaped not only my university experience but the person I’m becoming, and those lessons and relationships will carry with me well into the future.

You can make a lasting impact on students’ lives by supporting the John XXIII College Scholarship Fund.

Your donation helps provide access, independence, and opportunity - just like it did for Jackson. To join our community of supporters and help transform the next generation of Johns residents, visit our donations page.

All donations over $2 are tax-deductible in Australia.

If you’d like to discuss establishing a named scholarship or how you can support the ongoing development of John XXIII College, please contact our Community Outreach Office:

02 6125 6900 community@johnxxiii.anu.edu.au

Jackson Cannell on the future outlook after Johns.

MY J23Story

KENZIE CLEWS

KENZIE

CLEWS, CHARLIE SIMMONDS AND BAXTER MUTTON RECENTLY HAD

THE OPPORTUNITY TO TRAVEL TO CHINA AS PART OF A GRANT-SUPPORTED PROGRAM UNDER THE NEW COLOMBO PLAN.

THIS AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT INITIATIVE PROVIDES UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS WITH IMMERSIVE, STRUCTURED LEARNING AND INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES TO BUILD THEIR INDO-PACIFIC CAPABILITY AND ASIA LITERACY.

During the first three weeks, they were based in Dali, Yunnan, taking four-hour classes on weekdays and exploring the region on weekends. In week four, the program took them to more rural areas, including Lijiang and the Tiger Leaping Gorge, Shangri-La in the Tibetan Autonomous Region, and a homestay with families in Haba village. In the final week, Kenzie and Baxter travelled to Chengdu, Chongqing, and Shenzhen.

Kenzie shares reflections from this immersive experience which allowed her to not only explore China’s diverse cultures and communities but also gain insights into language, connection, and personal growth.

What was the most eye-opening or surprising part of your experience in China, and why did it stand out to you?

The most interesting thing I learned on this trip was that China has 56 different ethnic groups. Oftentimes, I think people assume China is a really large, homogeneous place, but it is quite the opposite. There are so many different ethnic and religious groups that all wear different traditional dresses and have varying belief systems and backgrounds. For me, I think learning this and actually appreciating the country for its diversity was really important, and helped me better understand China.

How did being part of a grant-supported program shape your sense of purpose or responsibility during the trip?

The opportunity to travel abroad on a grant-supported program was such an amazing opportunity that I constantly felt grateful for. In turn, throughout the trip, I reminded myself how lucky I was and tried to maximise my time away, filling the days and taking all of the opportunities I was given.

Can you share a moment where you connected deeply with someone from the local community or your host group?

One of my favourite things that I felt on the trip was the appreciation that the local people had toward us for learning their language. It was evident in everyday interactions that people were genuinely pleased to find that we had a good grasp of their language and did not have to struggle much to communicate. I cannot pick a particular person that I connected deeply with, but I felt that I had many great conversations and interactions with locals who were so excited to share their culture and way of life with someone from a country so far away.

What did you learn about yourself by stepping outside your usual environment and spending time immersed in another culture?

I realised that I was much more open and excited to be abroad than I had anticipated I would be. As someone who did not grow up in Australia, I thought I was quite content being back here and happy to pause travelling for a while. But, I enjoyed my trip to China so much and remembered how much I love Asia and learning the nuances in cultures and language that I will not be so quick to say I am happy to stay put in Australia anymore.

How do you hope to use what you’ve learned from this trip in your life or studies back in Australia?

The opportunity to see how valuable and useful language skills are in reallife scenarios was a great booster for my studies. Sometimes you forget that you are learning a language for a purposeful reason, and not just so that you can say you speak Chinese. I was surprised by how much gratitude locals seemed to implicitly express when we conversed, which brought a whole new purpose to my studies. In addition, there were more moments than I had expected in which not having the ability to clearly communicate posed rather large challenges.

So, I have learned the magnitude of how important it is to be good at a language to make travel accessible and much more immersive. This learning is definitely what I will be bringing back to my studies in Australia.

The White Water Terraces (Baishui Terrace), located in Yunnan, China.

My

Story Kenzie Clews

PARENTSCocktail Night

52 The Pelican | Semester 2, 2025

Parents Cocktail Night

Parents Cocktail Night

PARENTS NIGHT

Parents Cocktail Night

Parents Cocktail Night

The Pelican | Semester 2, 2025

Parents Cocktail Night

PARENTS NIGHT

Parents Cocktail Night

SPORTSReport

SPORT AT JOHNS COMES TO A CLOSE FOR 2025, AND WHILE WE’RE SADDENED TO NARROWLY MISS OUT ON RAISING THE INTERHALL SPORTS SHIELD, WE LOOK BACK ON THE YEAR WITH IMMENSE PRIDE IN WHAT OUR RESSIES HAVE ACHIEVED ON THE SPORTING FIELD, AND THE INCREDIBLE SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY HAS PROVIDED ON THE SIDELINES. 2026, LOOK OUT.

After the final whistle, we finished the year in 2nd place on the podium, registering 613 points, just 58 points behind Bruce in 1st. This year saw 70% of our students represent the College across all IHS competitions, marking a strong uplift in participation from 2024. Exceptional team performances delivered 1st-place finishes in Disc, Mixed Netball, Women’s Touch Football, and Men’s AFL 9s.

From nail-biting finishes to standout team and individual efforts, the energy around the fields and courts was second to none. As the 2025 Sports Reps, we finish the role with enormous excitement for the future of sport at Johns and the quest to regain the IHS Shield.

SEMESTER 2 SPORTS RESULTS

Men’s Soccer – Top 4 Finish

Take a bow, Zac and Pickles, our fearless coaches whose energy, attitude, and playing prowess as ex-ressies, paired with the youth and enthusiasm of our first- and second-year ressies, brought confidence and cohesion to the squad. After an impressive campaign, Johns finished 4th following a heartbreaking last-minute loss to B&G in the semi-final. Striker Jed Katekar led from the front with a standout performance, supported by the ever-clinical Cube, the fleet-footed Ben’s (Hadfield and Ward), and the silky hands of Charles “Can’t Get Past Me” Mitchell. The team’s attacking flair and relentless work rate made for entertaining football all season, often cheered on by fanboys Lachie and Ollie from Student Services.

Men’s Netball – Silver Medal

Anyone walking past New Hall Courts at 10am on the 19th of August might have thought a stampede was underway, accompanied by heavy-bass music. The atmosphere was electric as Johns contested the Gold Medal Match. Scores were level at full time, sending the game into extra time. Captain Toby Sawyer dominated at Goal Shooter, and Nicky was his ever-reliable self, coming up clutch at what felt like several times per minute. The match swung back and forth, but we ultimately fell just short, finishing 2nd. This game stands as a major highlight of Johns Sport in 2025.

The mixed netball team scored big, taking the lead by double figures!

Women’s Netball – Bronze Medal

We were on track for a double in netball, with both our Women’s and Men’s teams cruising through the regular rounds and into the semi-finals. The Women’s team was immensely impressive, with elite netballers like Sofia Paris and Ali Bolt proving key cogs in a cohesive unit. In the dying seconds, a shot landed, but, sadly, not from a Johns hand. The team fell by a single point in a heartbreaking finish. Their effort across the term earned them a well-deserved 3rd place, with the bronze medal match played alongside the Men’s final and our community spirit shining brightly across both courts.

Mixed Netball – Gold! Gold! Gold!

Mixed Netball was the headline act of Semester 2. With both our Women’s and Men’s teams seeking redemption from narrow defeats earlier in the term, the group delivered in emphatic fashion. The regular rounds were won dominantly, and the finals followed suit, with Johns taking 1st place by a record double-figure margin. The usual suspects, Toby “T Sauce” Sawyer and Sofia “Nothing But Net” Paris, led the team with complete distinction, all while displaying the utmost respect for opponents, reflecting the strong culture within our sporting teams. Big shoes to fill for 2026.

Dodgeball – Top 4 Finish

Johns battled bravely through a competitive field to finish 4th, falling in an intense overtime playoff against Bruce. Sam “Sneaky” Ball spearheaded the team’s attack, while Anouk “Booyah” Bennett’s communication and leadership stood out all day. The team’s energy and resilience kept the crowd entertained until the very last throw. Special mention to Madame Secretary, Sofia Karia, who sacrificed herself countless times in Corridor Cup target practice, but even her bravery couldn’t drag the team onto the podium!

Tennis – Top 5 on Court

Our ressies dedicated countless hours on court, both socially and competitively, to sharpen their skills. Social regulars Kearny and Hodge provided questionable words of wisdom to the competitive group, but nevertheless contributed to the strong spirit within the squad. A particular shoutout goes to Ellie Austin, whose court coverage in singles was unrivalled in a Johns setting. Our 5th-place finish doesn’t reflect the immense effort of all involved, but it provides a solid foundation heading into 2026.

Gala Days – New IHS Frontiers

ANU Sport continues to expand IHS offerings through one-off galaday competitions, and our ressies have embraced these opportunities wholeheartedly. Johns competed in OzTag (3rd), Wheelchair Basketball (3rd), and European Handball (4th). The biggest challenge hasn’t been learning new sports, it’s been our Sports Reps and coaches trying to decide who gets to pull on the Johns singlet, given the overwhelming interest. A great problem to have.

Including Inward Bound, our ressies represented the College across 18 sports, displaying the distinction and competitiveness that make the blue and white stripe so respected, and feared, on the field. We’re incredibly grateful to the College for supporting us in leading Johns Sport in 2025, and we can’t wait to see the growth and success of the incoming 2026 cohort.

Congratulations to all this year’s Sports Award winners with main prizes going to:

• Liv LarcombeSportswoman of the Year

• Nicky RobertsonSportsman of the Year Anouk, Luke, Ali and Ollie Signing out for 2025

INWARDBound

IN A DEFINING MOMENT FOR JOHN XXIII COLLEGE, THIS YEAR’S INWARD BOUND MARKED A REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENT - THE FIRST TIME IN NEARLY A DECADE THAT ALL JOHNS TEAMS SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED THE EVENT.

The College fielded an impressive eight teams, representing all seven divisions, with one College team competing in Division X. In addition, three ex-ressie teams also took on the Division X challenge, demonstrating the enduring spirit and camaraderie that defines the John XXIII College community.

Inward Bound (IB) is no ordinary competition. It’s a test of endurance, navigation, and teamwork that pushes every participant to their physical and mental limits. It demands trust, grit, and unity - qualities that Johns teams have long been known for.

Behind every successful team stands a dedicated coaching group and this year’s success would not have been possible without the incredible guidance and support of IB coaches Charlie Simmonds and Tom Skeffington (current students), alongside Gabby Kanizay and Liv Vigneault (ex-ressies). Their expertise, encouragement, and unwavering commitment were instrumental in preparing the teams for one of the toughest endurance events.

The event also highlighted the strong bond between current students and alumni. The sight of ex-residents returning to take on the same challenge, and cheering on the next generation, was a powerful reminder of the College’s lasting legacy.

For many participants, the journey was more than a race, it was a transformative experience. As they crossed the finish line, welcomed by fellow residents and supporters, the pride was palpable. “IB is a challenge unlike any other,” said Lincoln. “It tests you to your core and galvanises you as a team. The trust and respect built through this experience will stay with our students long after university life.”

This year’s result was a watershed moment for the College. To have eight current teams complete the challenge, alongside three alumni teams, is a phenomenal achievement. It speaks to the leadership, courage, and goodwill that runs through generations of Johns students.

Head of College Jas Lincoln on the enduring collaborative spirit at Johns.

Congratulations to every runner, navigator, volunteer and supporter who made Inward Bound 2025 such an unforgettable chapter in the story of John XXIII College. You have truly embodied the College spirit - grit, teamwork, courage, and community.

64 The Pelican | Semester 2, 2025

Inward Bound 2025

Inward Bound

ARTSReport

SEMESTER 2 HAS BEEN JAM PACKED WITH IAC EVENTS!

We started off the semester with Slam Poetry, in which we had an impressive second place podium finish, thanks to Harriet and Matt for their amazing poems and performances! We then had the fun and quirky IAC talent show in which we had awesome non-musical and musical talents compete. Then came choir, which is one of the most anticipated IAC events of the year, we had a crew of around 20 Ressies come together to sing some fun pop hits! Before the mid-sem break we hosted the IAC spelling bee in our very own JCR! It was great to see everyone supporting our Ressies Matt and Issy in their spelling efforts!

During all the chaos of the almost weekly IAC events, the college production team had begun rehearsing! Directed by the very talented Matt and Archie, the cast performed the hilarious, romantic and highly entertaining play ‘Don’t Dress for Dinner’. The performances took place on Parents weekend and were a joy to watch and a great success!

Following the play, IAC creative writing and art show submissions were due, in which Lachie, JJ and Matt all submitted amazing pieces. We placed 5th in creative writing and 6th in the art show, boosting our overall standing in IAC! The following week Mary and Matt competed in IAC public speaking, in which they took home 3rd place!

To end the year of IAC events, a talented crew of our Ressie’s competed in the IAC dance night! This event is always one of the most fun, popular, anticipated events of the year as the whole college goes together to watch the dance girls perform, and celebrate their months of hard work and rehearsals! Directed by Charlotte and Gemma, the girls performed amazingly, and everyone was so proud of them! They took home 2nd place, and perfectly ended the year of IAC events!

I have loved facilitating our Ressies in IAC events and the arts this year and can’t wait to see what the incoming arts rep Jed does next year!

Laura Flack

Arts

Laura Flack

BOOKClub

THIS YEAR WE STARTED THE J23 BOOK CLUB WHICH WAS A MASSIVE SUCCESS. GENEROUSLY FUNDED BY THE COLLEGE, EVERY SECOND SUNDAY MORNING AT 9AM SHARP, WE TREKKED TO A NEW OR OLD FAVOURITE CAFÉ TO DISCUSS OUR BOOK OF THE TERM.

This year we read 4 books, spanning 73 years, and 4 different genres. We began with Love and Virtue by Diana Reid, a novel that was as divisive as much as it inspired conversation, earning a group rating of 2.5 stars. Vicious by V.E. Schwab followed, securing a moderate 3 stars. In term 3, Jessa Hastings’ The Conditions of Will became our favourite so far at 3.5 stars, and we are ending the year on a classic, All Our Yesterdays by Natalia Ginzburg, with the final verdict still to come.

Book club has also been a great opportunity to get off campus and explore Canberra a bit more. We made a commitment to try a new café each time, and although we got a bit lazy toward the end, we still managed to get all the way up to Gungahlin and try a few places in Manuka to get out of the ANU bubble.

This year we have all had a great chance to connect on shared interests, read a range of books we wouldn’t have picked up on our own, and to explore the Canberra coffee scene. I can’t wait for more Sunday morning catch ups next year.

Harriet Hughes

Term 1

Book 1

Love and Virtue by Diana Reid

Group Rating:

Term 2

Book 2

Vicious by V.E. Schwab

Group Rating:

Term 3

Book 3

The Conditions of Will by Jessa Hastings

Group Rating:

Term 4

Book 4

All Our Yesterdays by Natalia Ginzburg

Group Rating: Pending

Book Club Harriet Hughes

DON’T DRESS FOR Dinner

THIS YEAR’S JOHN’S PRODUCTION OF DON’T DRESS FOR DINNER BROUGHT FAST-PACED FARCE, CHAOS, AND UNFORGETTABLE LAUGHS TO THE STAGE.

Matt and I have been privileged to work with such an amazing group of people over the last few months, whose energy, discipline, and passion for theatre have made every rehearsal a joy.

This year we chose Marc Camoletti's 'Don't Dress for Dinner', a story about the folly of love and deception. We chose it because it captures the chaos and laughter that thrives in live theatre, and thought that the show would demonstrate the sheer talent the John's cohort has in acting and farce. The story focused on a manor in the French Countryside as two best friends traverse their relationships with their lovers, as the story unfolds, we see the intensity of their friendship and the fickleness of their morals.

The script was undoubtedly a major hurdle for the cast; with fast paced dialogue, high-octane energy and non-stop comedy. Yet we could not be more proud with how the actors faced and surmounted the exciting story.

Oscar Corah and Ollie Moore dove head-first into the madness, grounding the onstage mayhem with brilliant chemistry as Bernard and Robert. Mia Costa delivered a wonderfully chaotic performance as Jacqueline, juxtaposed by the elegant Suzanne played by Scarlett Price. The cook, brought to life by Allegra Sintras, anchored the chaos with impeccable comedic timing and wit. Finally, the Hawksley twins (Jack and Harry) came out to deliver a show-stopping cameo that brought the house down each night.

We're enormously grateful to Julian Papichio, Laura Flack and the Johns maintenance crew, helping bring the set, costumes, lighting and sound to our story. Without them the show could not have been what it was.

Archie Allen

Don’t Dress for Dinner Archie Allen

JOURNEY to Digi

TWO JOHN’S RESIDENTS, ONE FESTIVAL DREAM - LUKE AND OSCAR’S ROAD TO DIGI 2025.

Can you share a bit about your background in DJing and what first drew you into music?

Luke

I started DJing in early 2023 and began by playing at small house parties whenever I had the chance. I loved the energy straight away, but it wasn’t until I arrived at Johns that I really immersed myself in dance music. Being in that environment showed me how vibrant the scene could be, and after going to Digi 2024 everything clicked. I realised how powerful dance music is in bringing people together on a dancefloor, and that experience really cemented my love for it.

Oscar

I first picked up DJing in Year 9, but it didn’t become something I took seriously until first year at Johns when I started playing at college events. Living in Canberra, and especially being part of the Johns community, pushed me deeper into music. It gave me a space to experiment, learn and see just how much joy and connection music can create for everyone involved.

What was the competition process like, and what do you think set your performance apart?

We were honestly pretty lucky. We had recorded a mix just a week before the Digi competition was announced, so when submissions opened we figured we might as well send it in. After that we barely thought about it until one morning our phones blew up with messages saying we’d been named finalists. We called each other straight away because we were genuinely shocked and so excited. To win, we needed to get the most comments using our assigned emoji ( ) so we messaged just about everyone we knew to get behind us. Looking back, we think our mix stood out because it moved through a range of dance genres and had a really balanced flow. It captured the sounds we genuinely love and represented the energy we aim for whenever we play.

How did it feel when you found out you’d won and would be performing at Digi 2025?

The waiting period felt endless, which definitely didn’t help our nerves. In the end, we actually found out while we were together at the beach in Sydney, which made the moment even more surreal.

Seeing the notification appear was such a shock. The idea of playing on the same lineup as some of the biggest names in dance music, and on the warehouse stage as well, didn’t feel real at first. It was a mix of excitement, disbelief and pure happiness.

THE FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What was it like stepping onto the stage in front of a festival crowd?

It was honestly incredible. Even though we were both nervous, that feeling disappeared the moment we saw around 70 to 80 of our friends running through the gates as soon as they opened at midday. Having that much support completely changed the atmosphere for us and turned a moment that could have been overwhelming into one of the best experiences of our lives.

Can you describe the atmosphere during your set? Any standout moments?

The atmosphere felt really wholesome and supportive. A lot of people made the effort to show up early just to see us play, which meant so much. The moment that stands out the most was the final song. When it finished, all the tension and focus we’d held onto for weeks finally lifted. It felt like everything had come full circle, playing to a crowd filled with friends from Canberra who had been a big part of our journey. It was emotional and genuinely beautiful to look up and see that.

Were there any surprises or challenges during your performance? How did you handle them?

Luke

One of the CDJs on my side wasn’t working properly, which definitely threw me off for a moment. The sound techs tried replacing it, but the second one didn’t work either, so I had to quickly regroup and just keep going. Once we were properly into the set, the crowd’s energy kept us moving and the nerves faded.

Oscar

Because we’d prepared the set so precisely, the hardest part for me was learning not to panic when something small went wrong. My instinct is always to fixate on mistakes, but I had to remind myself that the set wasn’t meant to be perfect. It was about the experience and about creating something memorable for ourselves and our friends. Letting go of perfectionism and embracing the small mistakes was a big lesson for me.

Aside from performing, what was the most exciting part of attending Digi 2025?

Getting to go into the artist area was a huge highlight. Meeting some of the biggest names in dance music face-toface was surreal, especially considering these are people we look up to. It made the whole experience feel a lot more real and showed us that pursuing this seriously might actually be possible. And after our set, getting to explore the festival and hang out with all our mates made the day even better.

Looking to the future, what has this experience taught you about DJing and performing live?

It taught us a lot about handling nerves and adapting when things don’t go to plan. We also learned how to think more intentionally about how a set should be shaped, paying attention to the energy we want to build and how we want the crowd to feel throughout.

Has this opportunity changed your goals in music? What’s next?

It definitely has. Digi showed us that there’s a genuine opportunity to take music further if we put in the effort. One of our main goals for 2026 is to move into music production and start creating our own tracks. We also recently announced that we’ll be playing at Digi 2026, which is incredibly exciting because this time we’re actually named on the lineup. Even though we don’t know exactly where all of this will lead, the whole journey has shown us that there are so many meaningful pathways in music and that turning a passion into something bigger is more possible than we realised.

What advice would you give to other students who want to follow their passion for music and performance?

Music is one of the most expressive and liberating ways to be creative, so if you care about it, you should absolutely lean into that. Don’t worry about how others might judge you. Focus on what makes you feel like yourself and what brings you joy. Put your work out there, take chances even when they make you nervous, and stay true to what you love. That’s the biggest lesson we’ve taken from this whole experience.

Journey to Digi Luke & Oscar

FINDINGHis Way

FORMER JOHN’S RESIDENT AND RHODES SCHOLAR DR LACHLAN ARTHUR SHARES HOW BALANCE, RESILIENCE AND PURPOSE, FIRST LEARNED AT COLLEGE, THEN CONTINUES TO GUIDE HIS EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY.

FROM JOHN’S TO OXFORD WITH DR LACHLAN ARTHUR

When you meet Dr Lachlan Arthur, you’re struck not by the list of achievements that follow his name, but by his calm, grounded energy.

A John XXIII College resident from 2015 to 2017, Lachlan’s path has been nothing short of remarkable. After completing both an undergraduate degree and a PhD in science, he went on to study medicine, before being awarded the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to the University of Oxford. Today, he’s pursuing another PhD in orthopaedic surgery, a field where science, precision and compassion intertwine.

But when Lachlan reflects on what truly shaped him, it’s not the accolades or milestones that come to mind, it’s the lessons in community and balance he learned during his years at John XXIII College.

76 The Pelican | Semester 2, 2025

Finding His Way Dr Lachlan Arthur

He recalls with a smile one of his most vivid memories: learning navigation during the IB program, being blindfolded and dropped into the bush to find his way back.

“It’s a pretty useful skill in terms of survival,” he laughs, “but it’s also a good metaphor for life: finding your way, even when you can’t quite see where you’re going.”

That spirit of orientation (both literal and figurative) has guided Lachlan far beyond College grounds. Like many students stepping out of home for the first time, his years at Johns were a mix of independence and belonging. There was freedom to grow, but also the comfort of shared meals, friendships and community events that reminded him there’s more to life than study alone.

Those early lessons, he says, continue to shape how he approaches his work and life today. From the demanding rhythm of medical research to the personal challenges of living abroad, he’s learned that balance and persistence are what sustain achievement, not perfection.

Whatever path you take, there’ll always be challenges, but if you keep giving it your best shot, you’re already moving in the right direction.

Dr. Lachlan Arthur on the importance of continuing on.

For Lachlan, success is less about titles and more about progress and about doing what you love, learning from every setback, and staying connected to the people and values that keep you grounded.

His story is a quiet reminder of what John XXIII College stands for -

The most valuable lessons are often those that can’t be measured. Resilience, gratitude, and the courage to keep finding your way, one step at a time.

SUZYUrbaniak

FROM ROCKS TO REVOLUTIONISING EDUCATION

FOR AS LONG AS SHE CAN REMEMBER, SUZY URBANIAK HAS BEEN CAPTIVATED BY THE EARTH, ITS VAST STRUCTURES, HIDDEN STORIES, AND RUGGED BEAUTY.

John XXIII College Alumna, 1984–1987

As a young girl growing up on the outer fringes of northwest Melbourne, she spent her days wandering the suburbs, collecting basalt rocks and imagining the volcanoes that once shaped the land beneath her feet. That early curiosity sparked a lifelong love of geology and a career that would eventually lead her deep into Australia’s remote landscapes.

But Suzy’s story is also one of resilience. At 30, her world shifted dramatically when she suddenly found herself raising three young boys under the age of two on her own. She describes that chapter of her life as “an asteroid impact and mass extinction event.” Reinvention felt daunting, until necessity led her to the classroom.

Teaching, she quickly realised, was a chance to change everything she had questioned earlier in her career. “Why wasn’t I taught how to be a scientist?” she remembers asking. “Where was the local homegrown talent?” Determined to rewrite the script, she set out to build a learning environment that reflected the real world: practical, hands-on, creative, and grounded in purpose.

Over the next two decades, this vision grew into the CoRE (Centre of Resource Excellence) Learning Model, and later, the CoRE Learning Foundation.

To Suzy, “resources” has a dual meaning: the minerals and materials we rely on to sustain life, and the students themselves, our most valuable national asset. Her approach rejects the idea of education as numbers, grades, and narrow assessments. Instead, she champions classrooms where young scientists and engineers in the making can thrive, explore, and understand the systems that power our planet and their role in shaping its future.

Today, Suzy continues her mission to help transform education across Western Australia. She feels lucky to have united her two great passions, earth science and igniting human potential, into a single, powerful purpose: giving education back to learning.

Outside the classroom, the outdoors remains her grounding force. She enjoys camping, cooking over an open fire, discovering WA’s hidden waterholes, and sharing a drink with friends at the pub. Even then, work and life blend together, her love of rocks and the natural world constantly inspiring new opportunities for students.

Reflecting on her years at John XXIII College from 1984 to 1987, Suzy remembers joy, adventure, and deep friendships: room parties, college sports competitions, big Saturday nights in the hall, and the challenges of Outward Bound. “We did everything we could to enjoy life to the fullest,” she says.

Energetic, bold, and affectionately nicknamed “The Urbinator” by her students, Suzy has built a life on taking risks that lead to extraordinary outcomes. She is proud to be a mother to three successful men, and in her third marriage, has found unwavering support for her ever-evolving journey. Based now in Toodyay, she continues to forge paths unknown, guided by curiosity, courage, and a belief that the future is something we create.

The Pelican | Semester 2, 2025

Suzy Urbaniak

SYDNEYReunion

JOHNS EX-RESSIES REUNITE IN STYLE AT THE ROCKS

WHAT A NIGHT IT WAS!

THE SYDNEY REUNION BROUGHT A SURGE OF JOHNS SPIRIT TO THE ROCKS, TRANSFORMING THE MIRAR BAR AT THE RAWSON HOTEL INTO A VIBRANT HUB OF LAUGHTER, STORYTELLING, AND THE KIND OF EFFORTLESS CAMARADERIE THAT ONLY A SHARED COLLEGE EXPERIENCE CAN CREATE.

From warm embraces to bursts of nostalgia, the room was alive with the unmistakable energy of ex-ressies picking up right where they left off.

Guests travelled from across Sydney and beyond to be part of the evening, filling the venue with a wonderful mix of familiar faces and new connections. The chatter flowed as easily as the drinks, and everywhere you looked, there were moments of joy: old photos being compared, favourite memories being relived, and plenty of “Do you remember when…?” echoing through the bar.

Head of College, Jas (Jason) Lincoln, opened the night with a heartfelt address that resonated with everyone present. He spoke beautifully about the lasting strength of the Johns community and how the friendships and values formed at College continue to shape our stories long after graduation. Standing before a room brimming with laughter and lively conversation, his words couldn’t have been more fitting.

Jas also shared an exciting glimpse into what lies ahead. As part of the College’s celebrations for 2026, a new mentoring program is being developed to connect exressies with current students — a chance to pass on wisdom, encouragement, and lived experience to the next generation. Many in the room were already buzzing at the idea of giving back to a place that helped shape their own journeys.

The evening closed on a high, with guests lingering long after the formalities wrapped up — a true sign of a reunion done right. The event was a wonderful reminder of the lifelong community that begins at Johns, and the deep sense of belonging that continues no matter where life takes us.

With Orange and Melbourne reunions on the horizon (and Brisbane officially in the works after many enthusiastic requests!), we can’t wait to keep the momentum going and reconnect with even more of our Johns family very soon.

Sydney Reunion

ORANGE, MELBOURNE & CANBERRA Reunions

Orange, Melbourne & Canberra

Reunions

FINDING MY PLACE at Johns

A YEAR INTO MY ROLE AS DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY AND DEVELOPMENT AT JOHN XXIII COLLEGE, I’VE REALISED SOMETHING IMPORTANT: I NEVER REALLY LEFT COLLEGE LIFE BEHIND.

My love for this world began back in the 1990s when I lived at St John’s College at the University of Sydney. The noise, the energy, the friendships, the ambitions - it was messy, brilliant, formative. College was where I first learned the power of community. And stepping into John XXIII decades later felt like reconnecting with an old part of myself.

Before arriving at the College, I spent over 25 years in the Australian screen industry, working across feature films, documentary productions, and post-production teams that became like family.

Across projects like Red Dog, The Sapphires, Australia and Great Gatsby, and more recently producing documentaries such as RIDE: A Brutal Fairytale, RUNN, and The Raftsmen, I learned how to build teams, inspire creativity, and keep big visions moving. In the end, filmmaking is communitybuilding, just with more cameras. Those same instincts now shape my work at John XXIII.

This first year has been about listening, reconnecting, and gathering stories from every corner of the John XXIII community, from current students in the alfresco to ex-ressies from decades past.

It has been about:

• strengthening alumni and parent relationships

• amplifying the College’s story and identity

• supporting philanthropy and longterm development

• celebrating our current students and the energy they bring to College life

• working closely with staff and student leaders

• preparing for major milestones like 50 Years of Women (2026) and the 60th Anniversary (2027)

• beginning work to preserve and activate our archives

What continues to surprise and inspire me is the loyalty people hold for this place. Whether someone moved out last semester or last century, Johns remains a defining chapter in their lives.

Among all the projects and moments this year, one experience stands above the rest: meeting and connecting with the remarkable 50 women featuring in our Illustra exhibition next year.

Travelling with photographer and proud ex-ressie, Bronte Morel, we journeyed across cities, campuses, workplaces, and living rooms to capture their portraits and stories.

Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years photoshoot with photographer, Bronte Morel.

Each conversation was a reminder of the incredible depth, strength, and diversity that John XXIII women have brought to the College over the past five decades.

Hearing their reflections, sharing laughs, exploring memories, and witnessing their achievements firsthand was a privilege. These shoots weren’t just photoshoots, they were windows into 50 different chapters of our collective story.

Bringing their voices into the Illustra exhibition has been one of the most meaningful parts of my first year.

My role sits at the intersection of community, connection, and future planning and that’s exactly what I love. As we head toward two major celebrations and a new strategic era for the College, I’m excited to keep building on the momentum of this first year.

College life is transformative. It shapes who we become.

And now, being part of shaping that experience for others feels like a fullcircle moment.

I’m grateful to be here and even more excited for what’s next.

William

Ward

Director of Community & Development

Finding My Place at Johns William Ward

THE GAME PLAN Oztag to Leadership at Johns

WE SHINE A SPOTLIGHT ON DEPUTY HEAD OF COLLEGE, DEE MARRAPODI, AN EDUCATOR, LEADER, AUSTRALIAN REPRESENTATIVE OZTAG PLAYER, AND PROUD COMMUNITY BUILDER WHOSE JOURNEY THROUGH SPORT AND TEACHING CONTINUES TO INSPIRE EVERYONE AROUND HER.

Can you tell us a little about your journey in sport? Where did it all begin, and what keeps that passion alive for you?

I’ve been playing sport since primary school. Growing up in the country, sport was almost a rite of passage, it was how you connected, challenged yourself, and became part of the community. That early love of sport guided me into a degree in Health and Physical Education, and eventually into teaching. Today, it’s coaching and competing that keep the passion alive for me. Sport has always grounded me, given me purpose, and connected me to others.

You’ve achieved so much in both education and sport. Are there any moments that stand out as turning points?

One of my earliest turning points was being selected for Western Region touch football. This was the first time I realised where sport could take me. Representing NSW and Australia in Oztag has also been a major highlight.

On the education side, completing my Master of Instructional Leadership at the University of Melbourne and stepping into Assistant Principal, Learning and Teaching at St Clare’s College were pivotal moments that shaped my career and leadership.

Can you describe a specific moment or season that stands out as your most successful?

2024 was an incredibly special year. My ACT Oztag team won both the NSW State Championship and the National Championships. Off the back of those performances, I was selected for NSW (2025) and Australia (2025/2026), winning both tournaments. Those seasons were the culmination of years of hard work, teamwork, and persistence.

Do the lessons you’ve learned through sport shape the way you lead and work with others at the College?

Absolutely. Sport teaches you commitment, resilience, accountability, and how to value every role in a team. Having captained both ACT and NSW Oztag teams, I’ve learned how to bring people together, communicate clearly, and lead under pressure. Those same principles guide how I support residents, work with staff, and contribute to the leadership culture at Johns.

You wear quite a few hats — Deputy Head, athlete, mum, and wife. How do you find balance?

Yes, life is busy! But I’ve learned that busy people can be incredibly successful when they are disciplined and have good systems around them. I’m lucky to have supportive teammates, colleagues, friends, and family. I try to treat others the way I hope to be treated. This attitude tends to bring the best out of people and helps everything run more smoothly.

What does a typical week look like for you when you’re juggling training, college life, and some personal downtime?

There isn’t a lot of downtime! Most days involve a lot of multitasking at work and at home. Organisation, communication and teamwork are key. Evenings are usually filled with either coaching, training, or supporting my family, friends or colleagues. I try to keep the energy positive and make the most of the small moments.

For young people who feel stretched between university, sport, and life, what advice would you give about finding their rhythm?

Do what you’re good at and what you love. Organisation, commitment and energy are essential. These qualities help you get the best out of yourself. Surround yourself with people who energise you, not drain you. And remember sometimes doing less, but doing it well, is the real recipe for success.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, or to young women hoping to lead and compete, what would it be?

Be kind to yourself and lean into your strengths. You don’t need to be perfect. Be curious to learn and do things better “next time”. Surround yourself with people who fill your cup and champion your goals. And don’t listen to the haters.

What do you hope your story says to our ressies and community about following passions?

That you have nothing to lose by putting yourself out there and absolutely everything to gain. Things won’t always go to plan, but every setback teaches you something. Learn from it, grow from it, and keep going. Perseverance wins.

The Game Plan: Oztag to Leadership at Johns Dee Marrapodi

GOING FULLCircle

BRONTE MOREL, AN EX-RESSIE AND FORMER PRESIDENT OF JOHN XXIII COLLEGE, RETURNS TO CAMPUS AS THE OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHER FOR ILLUSTRA: 50 WOMEN FOR 50 YEARS.

Now a London-based portrait and wedding photographer, Bronte first discovered her love of capturing people during her own years at Johns, a passion that has since become her creative life. Her connection to the College and her instinct for authentic, people-centred storytelling made her the perfect choice to document this milestone exhibition.

Here, she reflects on coming home to photograph the women who shaped five decades of Johns history.

I am an OG Townie but spent my teen years in Singapore and moved back to Canberra to study Visual Art at ANU, landing at John XXIII College where I lived from 2012 to 2014. Johns quickly became my whole world. I threw myself into College life — first as Social Rep and then as President in my third year — because I’ve always loved people, community, and creating spaces where everyone can have a good time. Those years shaped who I am, and they’re where my love of photographing people quietly began. My camera came with me to every party and event, not because I thought it would become a career, but because I genuinely loved capturing the joy around me.

After uni, life took me to London, where I’ve been based for the last six and a half years. I worked in hospitality management for a long time, which suited my love of people, but after a while I realised my creative soul was dying. About three years ago, I hit a point where I knew something had to change.

FROM JOHNS AND BACK, WITH BRONTE MOREL

So I quit my job, bought a new camera and decided to back myself fully as a photographer.

My passion for people stemmed from the years I lived at Johns from being Social Rep in 2013 and Pres in 2014. I look back on my time at college and there wasn’t a party I was at that I didn’t bring my camera to, so with that passion for parties, people and photography I now work predominantly as a wedding photographer. Weddings are full of energy, emotion, the best kind of chaos and pure joy!

In a way, it feels similar to my time at Johns, being around people celebrating, feeling that sense of community, and trying to capture moments in time that will live on. It’s been the most satisfying and unexpected path, and returning to Johns for this project has been more fulfilling, inspiring and encouraging than I could have ever imagined.

How did your time at College influence your creative path and interest in photography?

Studying Visual Art at the ANU School of Art, I actively avoided every photography subject even though I was constantly running around with a camera in my hand. I never seriously thought I’d become a professional photographer back then, I just loved capturing the moments.

What I loved then, and still love now, is the amazing way a photograph has the ability to make a past moment present again. My deep love for people and connection led me into events and hospitality after uni, but eventually I realised I was missing the creative part of myself. Photography suddenly became the bridge between the things I cared about most: connecting with people and creating something meaningful.

If you told me ten years ago, as I packed my bags and left college, that I’d return as the photographer to document 50 incredible women for Johns’ commemoration of Women at Johns for 50 years, I would never have believed you.

Going Full Circle Bronte Morel

What inspired your visual approach to the Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years portraits?

My first priority was getting to know each woman as an individual; their personality, their energy, the stories that shaped them. I wanted that authenticity to come through in the images.

Johns has this amazing mix of people from all walks of life, yet there’s a shared root, a sense of community, warmth and connection that ties everyone together. My aim was to show both those differences and that common thread.

My style has always been very real and people-focused. I’m drawn to natural expression, genuine emotion, and portraits that feel intimate rather than posed. With Illustra, I wanted every single image to feel personal and unique, but also unmistakably connected to the spirit of College; the friendliness, the life, the sense of belonging we all know so well.

How did it feel to return to Johns as the photographer for this project, capturing the stories of women from different generations?

Honestly, it’s been wild. Walking back into Johns after a decade feels strangely familiar, and the memories are tucked into every corridor. I’ve loved meeting the current students and staff and seeing the College absolutely thriving.

Being back here, not as a resident but as someone entrusted with telling these women’s stories has been such an honour. It feels surreal in the best way like coming home, but with a new purpose.

What have you learned about connection and representation through photographing these amazing women?

Every woman I’ve photographed is completely unique, different backgrounds, careers, ages yet there’s this profound foundation we all seem to share. Maybe it’s the grounding that comes from our time at Johns, or maybe it’s simply the kind of people who are drawn here.

What I’ve seen consistently is confidence, intelligence, humility and openness. Being trusted to represent these women has reminded me how powerful shared experiences can be, even across generations.

FROM JOHNS

AND BACK, WITH BRONTE MOREL

Can you share a moment from one of the Illustra shoots that particularly resonated with you?

I honestly can’t pick just one. Every shoot has been its own little world, intimate, funny, emotional. I am travelling across Australia to take these photographs and feel privileged to have been welcomed into the intimacy of so many of the ladies’ lives.

What’s really struck me is how down to earth and genuine everyone is. I’ve also been blown away by how many of the women have an attitude of ‘giving back’ and are deeply involved in shaping and impacting their own communities. We’re all living such different realities, yet the Johns connection and foundation flows through it all.

What do you hope these portraits communicate about the women of John XXIII College and their legacy over the past five decades?

I hope people see the strength, resilience and brilliance of these women and feel inspired by what’s possible. University is just a launching pad, and every woman in the Illustra exhibition proves that you can carve out your own path, through the challenges, the trials, the adventure and the joy.

These portraits celebrate achievement, ambition, generosity, and the courage to follow your passion. If they can encourage the young people living at Johns today to dream big, work hard and back themselves, then I feel like the project has done exactly what it was meant to do.

Going Full Circle Bronte Morel

ILLUSTRA 50 women for 50 years

A CELEBRATION OF LEGACY, LEADERSHIP, AND THE LUMINOUS SPIRIT OF WOMEN AT JOHN XXIII COLLEGE.

In 2026, John XXIII College will mark a major milestone, 50 years since women were first admitted to the College. It’s a moment steeped in history, reflection, and gratitude for the generations of women who have shaped, strengthened, and inspired the community we know today.

To honour this anniversary, the College is launching Illustra: 50 Women for 50 Years.

This is a photographic exhibition that will spotlight fifty women whose journeys began, in part, at John XXIII and have since illuminated the world around them.

Derived from the Latin word illustrare, meaning "to illuminate" or "to make known," the exhibition will feature portraits and personal reflections that capture the essence of what it means to lead, persevere, and uplift others.

These are women who have forged paths across every imaginable field: leading change, building communities, inspiring the next generation, and quietly achieving extraordinary things.

The idea for Illustra was born from a journey that took Jas Lincoln (Head of College), across the country on sabbatical.

“In February this year, my wife Alyssa and I had the great fortune of travelling across England, Scotland, and Wales, visiting university colleges steeped in centuries of tradition,” Jas reflects. “At King’s College, Cambridge, we discovered something extraordinary, a project marking 50 years since women first resided there. The College had commissioned portraits of fifty remarkable women who had gone on to live inspiring lives.”

The impact of that exhibition stayed with me: the faces, the stories, the shared pride. It was deeply moving.

Head of College Jas Lincoln reflecting on his experience at King’s College, Cambridge.

HONOURING EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN

In early 2025, the College announced the Illustra project and invited nominations from across the community. The response was overwhelming, with more than 100 nominations submitted and each one a testament to the diversity and spirit of the Johns experience.

A selection committee was then formed, led by three distinguished alumni:

• Gaby Hunter (1989–1991)

• Jules Delaney (2000–2002)

• Hannah Atwell (2009–2011) (Alongside William Ward, the College’s Director of Community and Development).

Together, they spent months carefully reviewing each submission, curating a collection that captures the true breadth of achievement, compassion, and resilience among Johns women.

From these nominations emerged the 50 honourees, each a shining example of the College’s values in action. Their portraits will soon adorn the walls of the College foyer, accompanied by their names, years of residence, and a personal reflection. It will stand as both a tribute and a time capsule and a visual story of five decades of influence and inspiration.

As the planning continues, the College extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who has shared nominations and stories so far. The women of Johns have long illuminated the path forward, and through Illustra, their light will continue to shine for generations to come.

That spark soon found its home at John XXIII College. As fate would have it, 2026 marks 50 years of women residing at Johns, a perfect opportunity to celebrate those who have helped define its story.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR ILLUSTRA: 50 WOMEN FOR 50 YEARS

Annie Fletcher-Nichols 1976

Sandra Harding

Jess Lockett

Kathryn Johnson

Skye O'Meara

Liz Nable

Dimity Brassil

Christine McLoughlin 1981–1984

Suzy Urbaniak 1984–1987

Bronte Moules 1985–1986

Simonetta Astolfi 1985–1987

Virginia Gorman 1985–1988

Krista Vane Tempest 1985–1988

THE EARLY YEARS

Rebecca Curran 1988–1990

Jacinta Carroll 1988–1991

Katherine Aigner 1989–1991

Tracey Berger-Savage 1990–1991

Jacinta Spurrett 1990–1991

Alison Ryan 1991–1993

Melanie Greblo 1993–1994

Sophie Hansen 1994–1996

Kate Ferry 1995–1997

Sarah Houston 1996–1997

Chloe Chick 1998–1999

Beth Sainty Gale 1998–2000

Harriett Joseph 2001–2002

John XXIII College, along with all ANU colleges, welcome co-education.

Co-ed cohort pictured in year book photos on campus.

sports stars making a statement at Table Tennis.

Johns

Illustra

Phoebe Williams

2001–2002

Lucy Moore 2002–2003

Renee Grogan 2002–2005

Catherine Coles 2003–2005

Shawn Liew 2003–2006

Monica Gray 2004–2006

Tess van der Rijt

Isha Caulfield 2006

Skye Buttenshaw 2006–2008

Angela Weber 2008

Emily Weston 2009–2011

Lee Constable 2009–2011

Elizabeth Wood 2009–2011

Hannah Wood

Roseanna Bricknell

Hannah Wood 2010–2012

Tess Kelly 2011–2013

Kiren Ahluwalia 2012–2014

Elly Gearing 2012–2014

Nikita Waldron 2013 - 2015

Lucy Holm 2013 - 2015

Jackie Parry 2015–2017

Gabby Kanizay 2023–2024

Anne Dupe >22 years service

continue to make an impact in sport with the triumphant

The Johns womens soccer team win the final and the season.

Johns ladies

Aussie Rules team.

Illustra

Women