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A publication of the Loyola College Alumni Association

Volume 31 June 2023

Dear Companions, I welcome this publication of The Companion inclusive of the stories of our past and present students. The beginning of 2023 has seen several new additions to Consult (executive leadership) at Loyola. This has brought renewed energy and focus to the team. The Consult is now comprised of the following people: Business Manager: Darrin Day Deputy Principal Students: Anna Salmic Deputy Principal Ignatian Mission and Identity: Adam Calderone Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching: Kathryn Wilson Acting Deputy Principal Staff and Compliance: Paul Toney Director of Operations: Lauren Hartigan Director of College and Community Engagement: Matthew Luczek Adam, Anna, Paul, and Lauren have worked at the college for significant and varied periods of time and continue to live and lead our Ignatian charism and the way we proceed. Kathryn, Darrin, and Matthew come to us from alternative settings and bring new skills and expertise to the college. At the beginning of the school year, Consult worked with Hutton Consulting to explore what it means to be an effective team, to build trust, respectful communication, and a united vision. With this foundation, we look forward to exciting times at the College. The 2023 College Annual Action Plan is broken down into four main goals. The first is to develop leaders who are listening and present in the community. Consult have been working to establish psychological safety in our community such that all members of staff feel comfortable sharing ideas and giving feedback. All staff and students have a voice in our community. Post-covid, we have noted that students have found it challenging to re-engage in both their learning and the community and as such the second two goals in the Annual Action Plan are to work in these areas. Wellbeing and learning are inextricably linked and Mrs Salmic and Ms Wilson are working with our staff to re-engage students. All staff at the College will be undergoing professional learning with Dr Tom Brunzell. (MST, EdM, PhD) who has experience as a teacher, school leader, researcher, and education advisor. Currently he is the Director of Education at Berry Street. He has significant expertise in trauma-informed, strengths-based classroom strategies. Our hope is that the training will equip our staff to better understand and cater for trauma affected young people. This is relevant in our current context where so many young people are challenged by poor mental health post-covid. We want to ensure our staff have the skills and tools to support students in their wellbeing so that they can learn to the best of their ability. Our final goal is to explore the method we use to teach Religious Education. The College is adopting the Pedagogy of Encounter. This approach invites students “to engage in dialogue by exploring religious content or issues through a process of inquiry, knowledge gathering and deconstruction and reconstruction, as well as a search for personal meaning.” (Ricoeur, 1965; Sharkey, 2017). It is hoped that students will show a broader appreciation of their own faith and spirituality in both our Catholic and real-world context.

The College is currently working towards the final stages (Stage 4) of our Masterplan. Design plans for a new STEM (Science Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) building have been completed. The College has submitted a building application to DEECA (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action) for the planned new facility. Notification of our building intentions have gone out to our neighbours and the wider Watsonia community. Once a permit has been granted and final MACS (Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic School) approval has been given, we are hoping to commence construction later in the year. The new space will be built between the MacKillop Building and the iCentre. A strength of Loyola College is the community partnerships and connections that are forged. Our parent groups continue to build these partnerships and work within our community to provide wonderful opportunities for our students. These include the Loyola Parents and Friends Association (LPFA) who this year have facilitated a Year 7 Welcome Evening, sold sausages at Open Day, doughnuts at the Maytime Fair and currently are organising our trivia night for later in the year. The Partnership with Parents Group (PWP) provide support for all our House Activities such as House Eisteddfod and House Masses. The Friends of Performing Arts (FOPA) work tirelessly to raise funds for the annual College Musical (All Shook Up for 2023) and other performing opportunities. The Presentation Ball Committee are working industrially to prepare two Presentation Balls for our students in September this year. We are grateful to the parents involved in these groups, for their time, energy, and loyalty to the College. The Loyola College Alumni Association (LCAA) are continually looking for new and improved ways to engage our Alumni. Past students who have suggestions or ideas for new initiatives are encouraged to contact Mr Matthew Luczek, to discuss. In addition, we are looking for new members to join our LCAA Committee. The committee meet four to five times a year and all contributions are valued. Members of our community who are aware of Alumni successes or achievements are also encouraged to forward this information to Matthew, so that he can promote these endeavours to our wider community. I would also encourage all Alumni to follow us online via our social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn) – these are a great way to stay up-to-date with news and events from the College. Additionally, LCAA have their own Facebook and Instagram pages which launch events sponsored by LCAA and share Alumni updates and achievements. We welcome Mrs Sonia Lotter, our new Executive Secretary for LCAA, and new Director of College and Community Engagement, Mr Matthew Luczek. Both are committed to working with LCAA to explore new opportunities and ways to engage. The College theme for the year is “Go on with strength and courage.” (St Mary MacKillop of the Cross). Mary MacKillop, the first Australian saint, was a strong woman who persevered through difficulty. All members of the school community are encouraged to adopt her approach, to lean into challenge, to step up and to make the most of all that the College has to offer. Enjoy this edition of The Companion.

Alison Leutchford Acting Principal

Yolanda Cauchi (L: 89-94) House? I am not really sure! Maybe Chisholm (Yellow?) Back when there were only four houses, then they changed to six. Favourite Teacher? Absolutely Mr Ramsdale! Favourite Subject? Textiles First memory from Loyola? I don’t remember a lot from Year 7 as it was so long ago! I would say my first memories were classes in the portable buildings and meeting new (lifelong) friends. Fondest memory at Loyola? The time we got into the finals for the Rock Eisteddfod! Singing in the Choir, Graphics Camp in Canberra, but also my friends who I still see today.

Rebecca Andonovski (L: 89-94) House? O’Brien until 1993, then it all changed to 6 houses! I then became the Co-captain of Flynn House. Favourite Teacher? Too easy - Mr Keegan! Favourite Subject? Maths (Mrs Musgrove) and Home Economics (Mrs Falzon). First memory of Loyola? Being disappointed there was no Canteen! I also thought that Old Loyola was part of our school which at the time it wasn’t (back in the olden days!). I also remember my first Year 7 Camp and making new friends along with meeting my Year 12 buddy. Fondest memory at Loyola? Our Great Keppel Island Trip in 1993 was fun. The PAC being built was also a big highlight.

Dianne Cheraghi (L: 81-86) House? Green (They didn't have names back then!) Favourite Teacher? I had many excellent teachers during my time at Loyola and remember them fondly for different reasons. Kathleen Mckenna (Homeroom), she was a beautiful soul and was always so generous with her students. Mrs Lysenko was my Art Teacher for a number of years and was a real ‘art warrior’ (she also often confused me for my sister!). Mr Clements (English), he was the most inspiring and enthusiastic English teacher I have ever had and my love for reading and writing blossomed in that year. I cannot remember my Maths teachers name today, but he was excellent, very serious about education and a man who understood numbers. I also enjoyed the simplicity of numbers in everything and have worked as a bookkeeper for many years now. Favourite Subject? My favourite subject is learning. I love to learn about people, places and things and enjoyed my years at Loyola because I was at place of learning. First memory of Loyola? Loyola was for a Year 7 student - all those years ago - a big piece of land with a couple of buildings on it and in winter a lot of mud! My school uniform was big (I would grow into it) and very blue (I would not get used to it) and not particularly comfortable. Fondest memory at Loyola? As a new school there was a real sense of community, we (buildings, teachers, and students alike) grew together through the years.

Our Alumni Parents Dinner at Iggy’s Restaurant gave us a great opportunity to catch up with members of our Alumni who also happen to have their own children currently enrolled.

Go on with strength and courage Each year the College proclaims a theme that articulates an aspect of our Catholic Ignatian tradition. This theme becomes a practical focus for the College community to bring alive and enact our Catholic heritage. This year’s College theme, “Go on with strength and courage”, is a quote from St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Australia’s first canonized saint. St Mary of the Cross was born in Fitzroy, Melbourne in 1842. At the age of 24 she started a school in a stable at Penola in South Australia. Others were attracted by her passion to help those in need. This led to the establishment of schools, initially mainly in rural areas, where families didn’t have access to education. These schools were often started by young women, many in their teens, with minimal resources and reliant on local communities. Mary MacKillop was an educator, a pioneer and a leader, someone who had compassion for others regardless of their situation or race. Galvanised by her belief in the value of education as the foundation for a fulfilling life, Mary’s motto was “never see a need without doing something about it”. The theme calls us, both individually and as a community, to persist, be resilient, stand up for those in need and to support just causes despite the cost. This sentiment is reflected in St Ignatius’ Prayer for Generosity. The College theme banner drawings are by Olivia Lawson (11XBAM) under the direction of Ms. Julia O’Brien (Head of McAuley House) and the elements of the banner compiled by Ms. Alexis Winter (Head of Learning – Design & Technology).

Thank you Harrison Mills We take this opportunity to thank and acknowledge the generous contribution to our school from former Loyola College Captain, Harrison Mills (L:14-19). Harrison, now an emerging young artist, recently completed his Degree in Fine Arts and reached out to the college in late October 2022 having created a special piece of artwork to symbolise his support for Loyola, with a view to demonstrating the proud Ignatian values that we continue to strive for as a school community. Created in his classic style of charcoal portraiture, the contemporary portrait of Jesus Christ - which was presented at a recent School Assembly in Term 1 - has been donated to our school and will be displayed proudly within our school grounds. Thank you Harrison.

Good morning, Mrs Leutchford, special guests, staff, students, and my fellow graduates from the class of 2022. For those who don’t know me, my name is Alysha Prisc and I am the 2022 College Dux. It is such an honour and a surreal experience to be speaking to you all today – an experience that my Year 7 self would not believe. The three main teachings that my VCE journey taught me were the importance of balance, collaboration, and self-reflection – which are the three main discussion points of my speech today. I know that everyone’s high school journey and goals are different, yet I hope the advice I give to you today will be able to help each of you in some shape or form. Ever since I started Year 7 at Loyola, back in 2017, I have been actively involved in multiple areas of the College including ACS Sports, leadership, and house events. You name it and I was there giving it a go. However, during the Covid lockdowns, I was unable to maintain my usual busy lifestyle. Without the connection to my netball team, part time job and co-curricular activities, I felt like my life had become a never-ending cycle of school and sleep. My previous love of learning began to dwindle as I felt that other aspects of my life were not being fulfilled. Once the world began to re-open in 2022, I knew that in order to do well in Year 12 I had to ensure my time studying was balanced with spending time doing the things I loved. Performing in the Mannix House Eisteddfod, leading alongside College Committee, working my part-time job, coaching my under 13s netball team and going out partying with my friends allowed me to rediscover myself and as such, my love of learning. It ignited my drive to do my best in my studies. There were definitely difficult days where I had to make sacrifices and compromises, but I would not have had it any other way. I truly believe that unless you are engaging in all aspects of your life, you can never truly excel in one. The next point I would like to talk about is collaboration. Now I will be the first to admit that in the junior year levels I hated teamwork. I didn’t like sharing the responsibility of a task and was scared to trust my teammates and let them down. After completing Year 12, I can say with full confidence that my ATAR is not just a reflection of my abilities but the combined abilities of my classmates, teachers, and myself. In each of my classes I found a core group where we could brainstorm ideas, tackle hard questions together and learn from one another. There were some days when I felt like my peers were able to teach me more than my teachers were able to. Just remember that your classmates are going through the same experience as you and all want to do their best. The challenges that you are facing may also be faced by them so use each other for support and laughter during the hard times as well as sources for knowledge and inspiration. My final point is all about self-reflection. Your high school experience will be a whirlwind of celebration and disappointment. The one thing that you are able to control throughout all of this is you. I found that reflecting on my successes and failures enabled me to create points for growth. Finding little actions to tweak my style of studying allowed me to become a better student. I also believe that reflecting and staying in tune with your emotions is extremely important. Throughout my VCE experience I definitely had lows. Days when I would doubt my abilities or feel like I would never overcome the stress that I was feeling. Knowing when I needed a day off studying or when I needed to confide in a friend helped me to overcome these challenges and prevent burnout. Above all things you need to prioritise yourself as you can only perform your best when you show yourself love and compassion. Now I would like to apologise in advance for how long this next section of my speech is but I truly believe each of these people need a huge shoutout for helping me throughout my VCE journey. Firstly, to Mr Denton and Mrs Murray – Thank you for introducing me and guiding me through my first VCE subjects. Thank you for all the class calls, remote teaching and making sure that I felt connected whilst in the midst of the pandemic. To Mrs Chung – Thank you for always putting up with my endless questions and providing me with pages and pages of work to do upon my request. To Mr Lynch – Thank you for creating such a fun and supportive class environment where I and the rest of the class felt safe to make mistakes. Thank you for also opening my eyes to the weird and wonderful of the world. To Mr Kelly – Thank you for reigniting my passion for English and allowing me to discover my own views and values to big questions in the world. Thank you for your thorough feedback, reassurance and the partnership we were able to develop. Alysha Prisc p4

All our Year 12 students last year are to be congratulated on completing their VCE/VET/VCAL Certificate in 2022. Their results were outstanding and reflected all their dedication and the hard work they had put in during the year. Our Dux, Alysha Prisc achieved an ATAR of 99.45 and Kelly Tran was our Proxime with an ATAR score of 99.40. All indicators show an upward trend, with 2022 producing the best results for the school in the last five years.

Students Who Obtained an ATAR Score over 90 (Results published with permission)

Alysha Prisc 99.45

Kelly Tran 99.4

Dilucksha Rajasingham 97.55

Oliver Schembri 97.25

Jessica Drajicevic 97.2

Benjamin Dowse 96.65

Rebekah Sison 95.9

Alix Andonovski 95.35

Aidan Fernandes 94.75

Alex Basile 94.2

Alessia D’Amato 93.7

Alexander McMahon-Puce 93.65

Update your contact details to receive LCAA news and event invitations p5

The 2022 Annual Awards Evening was held on the evening of Friday 2 December in the Loyola Companions Hall. The Occasional Address was given by Dr Nell Musgrove (L: 91-96), Associate Professor of History at Australian Catholic University, and the author of two books, The Scars Remain: A History of Forgotten Australians and Children’s Institutions (2013) and The Slow Evolution of Foster Care in Australia – Just like family? (2018). Nell is an advocate for using history to challenge the way we think about social justice in the present day and for making lesser-known histories more widely accessible to the public through digital history projects (e.g. https://www.morethanourchildhoods.org/). Congratulations to the recipients of all awards and in particular the recipients of College Medals, which are among some of the significant honours presented at the ceremony. The College Medals are reserved for those in our community who are compassionate, generous, influential, and effective leaders; those who will recognise the good and act on that despite the cost – in essence, a woman or man for others. Congratulations to the following medal recipients for 2022:

Insignis Medal This is the highest award a Loyola student can receive and is awarded annually to a Year 12 student whom St Ignatius would have happily had as one of his companions. Congratulations Alysha Prisc (L: 17-22), recipient of the Insignis Medal in 2021. One teacher described Alysha as an authentic leader; one who genuinely strives to get the best out of themselves and others. She is humble and determined, an excellent ambassador for the College setting an outstanding example to other students. Alicia is humble, down to earth, and mature. She has a passion for life, love of learning, courage & confidence to lead & serve others. In her student life Alysha was actively involved in many facets of the college: House activities, Performing Arts, Christian Service activities and in ACS Sport. In the area of leadership, Alysha has been a Year level / House captain LSC Representative and College Captain.

St Ignatius Medal This medal is awarded to a current or former student who has given service in a pastoral or leadership capacity and has shown loyalty and commitment to the College throughout his/her time as a student. Congratulations to Matthew Stanton (L: 16-21). A COVID graduate, this young man navigated Loyola through 2021 as College Captain. His calm, considered nature along with a great dry sense of humour, was the perfect leadership style for what was a difficult period for our staff and students. Matthew was a highly motivated leader, always brainstorming new ways to engage our community. Academically strong and a very involved co-curricular participant, Matt displayed all the attributes we wish for our graduates. We will never forget his captain’s advice that he gave at each public occasion. A worthy recipient of the St Ignatius Medal.

Loyola Medal This medal is awarded to a current or former staff member, Canonical Administrator or chaplain who has given service in a pastoral or professional capacity and has shown loyalty and commitment to the College for an extended period. Mark Arnavas held the position of Business Manager at Loyola College since August 2003. His expertise and insight have ensured that the College is in an excellent financial position. Mark is known for his professionalism and attention to detail and has constantly demonstrated an exceptional work ethic. He holds himself to high standards and expects the same of others. His strong sense of what is right and his loyalty and commitment to the College have earnt him the regard of others in the community. He holds onto the purse strings tightly, asking for justification for expenditure. He makes staff work hard for capital items, but this is him carrying out his role with integrity. He has a strong sense of what is right and honest, and he implements that with rigour. Mark always has the College’s interests at heart. In his time as Business Manager, he has been actively involved in several building programs including upgrading of the laboratories, the iCentre refurbishment, Two Wolves Hub, Cardoner Building, the Tony Chirico Staff Centre and the Old Loyola Mannix classrooms updates. Mark also took on a pivotal role in the planning and design of the new STEM building. Mark has shown great collegiality and presence in the College community. Mark has most certainly been a man of service and used his gifts in service of others, a fitting recipient of the Loyola medal. p6

Jesuit Medal This medal is awarded to a current or former parent or College friend who has given service in a pastoral, professional or leadership capacity and has shown loyalty and commitment to the College for an extended period. Loretta Baker joined the LPFA and fulfilled the treasurer's role since 2018. Loretta has played a very important role in assisting with the successful running of so many events, such as Trivia Night, Open Day, Maytime Fair, Community Food Truck and Carols Night and Winery Tours, to name a few. Loretta also assisted with the Presentation Ball in 2021, as Treasurer and committee member. Her daughter Jessica completed her studies at Loyola in 2021 and Loretta graciously decided to stay on the LPFA and continue her very active role as Treasurer. Loretta has a genuine kind heart; she willingly came in on so many occasions to ensure all tasks were completed in the lead up to an event. Her eye for detail and artistic ability were so evident. Loyola College has been truly blessed by Loretta’s passion and love for the school.

On Friday 10 February staff and students travelled to Fawkner Pool for the annual House Swimming Carnival. The students were exceptionally well behaved and it was great to hear them full of House spirit in our annual House Chant Competition at the end of the day. This year, the College named the most prestigious race of the year as the Jackson Car Memorial Gift. Students and staff listened in respectful silence as Mr Paul Toney introduced the race to the College community. Jackson Car (L: 12 – 18) passed away in August 2022 after a battle with cancer. Jackson was famously renowned for his dominance at the swimming carnival and in ACS competition. He qualified for five State Championships, five National Championships and qualified to race for the 200m Butterfly in the 2021 Australian Swimming Trials in Adelaide. Unfortunately, due to COVID, he was unable to trial for 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games. But Jackson was more than just an outstanding swimmer. He was indeed a young man for others. Jackson was a quiet, humble young man who would do anything for anyone. He was so loved by not only his family but the communities around him. Jackson demonstrated great sportsmanship. I never saw him complete any race without congratulating his opponents – win or lose. Jackson has been lucky to swim with some of his generations’ greats at ACS, State, and National levels. Jackson knew that being a good sport is a hallmark of great swimming and amazing athletes. All of this sportsmanship, service, and compassion was instilled as a young swimmer so long ago. Swimming taught Jackson character counts both in small acts of kindness and choices we make to change our world every day. Jackson was appointed Loyola Swimming Captain in 2018. Jackson did not have a dominating presence, he let his talent to the talking. He was courageous- most notably in his younger years-swimming against senior students in the gruelling 200m Individual Medley (House and ACS carnival) and 50m Fly, then competing in the remainder of the events other students his age wouldn't put their hand up for. Kate Swift (Former Loyola swimming coach) The three fastest males and females in the 50m freestyle are selected and given a handicap according to their time. This year the participants were Rohan Wein, Jacob Ryder, Jeremy Coleman, Hayley Car, Ruby Street, and Brydie Hutchinson. Congratulations to Jacob Ryder, who won in a tight finish from Jeremy and Hayley. Jacob was presented with a medal by Jackson’s grandparents, and his sisters Hayley and Brodie.

Wesley Mills What Have You Enjoyed Most About 2023 So Far? I have enjoyed all the new experiences and privileges that being in Year 12 and a College Captain has offered me. From attending a two-day leadership conference with Captains from across Australia, representing the college at special events such as ANZAC Day Services and St Patrick’s Day Mass, and being able to heat up leftovers for lunch in the Year 12 Kitchen. I even tried out my performance skills in this year’s House Eisteddfod. I have enjoyed the banter and relationships with my teachers and peers in the classroom, but what I have enjoyed the most this year is spending as much time as possible with my mates at school and the fun that has come with it.

What Do You Like Most About Loyola College? What I like most about Loyola is the ACS Sports Program! Being the sport-nerd that I am, I have loved playing football, cricket and basketball with my mates over the last 6 years. I’ve was lucky enough to captain my Year 8 football team to a Premiership and have made countless memories on and off the field. I wouldn’t be as close with some of my friends if Loyola didn’t offer this program.

What Do You Do to Unwind? Between all the study, captaincy duties, part-time work and footy there is often very little time to unwind. But I make sure I take some time to put my feet up and have a break! I like to play Playstation with my mates so there has been plenty of competitive spirit in the occasional game of FIFA or Madden. I also love to watch Movies and TV shows whenever I get the chance. Some of my recent watches are Suits, How I Met Your Mother, Air (GREAT FILM!) and Elvis. During the holidays I love getting down to the beach and getting away from it all, jump in the water or get the surfboard out and just relax.

What Are You Hoping to Achieve by the End of Your Time as College Captain? I hope that by the end of 2023 I will look back at the school I am leaving and be proud of the contributions I have made to it. This means making a positive, lasting difference that will benefit my peers for years to come. I hope that I am able to set the framework for future leaders to follow and build on but also to have helped as many students as possible on a personal level - whether this means just having a conversation with others or continuing to foster a sense of trust within the school community.

Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years? In 5 years time at the age of 24 I hope that I would have seen a fair bit of the world. I’m planning on travelling next year throughout Europe so hopefully I have memories from not only that trip but others in the years that follow. I see myself still being in contact with a lot of my mates from school and either having completed - or close to completing - a University Degree. In saying this though, it would not surprise me if my life takes a completely different path to what I imagine!. Most importantly in 5 years’ time I see myself as happy, healthy, and finding my way in the world.

What Memories Do You Have From Peers Who Have Graduated Before You? I remember being in Year 7 and feeling intimidated by how big the senior students looked, and now that I am a senior student I’ve realised we had nothing to be intimidated about at all. I have a few mates from the Class of 2022 (through football and cricket), so I have great memories of playing sport with them and all the banter that came with it. I remember always being jealous of the older students and wanting to be in their position when I was in my younger year levels; ironically, I’m now jealous of the Year 7 students! When I first came to Loyola College in Year 7, I remember the Year 11 and Year 12 students from Mentor cracking jokes in mentor which made the mornings very enjoyable and a place to feel safe and welcome.

Celeste Murrone What Have You Enjoyed Most About 2023 So Far? In the recent holiday break, my family and I travelled overseas to see family in Italy and enjoy some sightseeing. It has been the most enjoyable moment of 2023 so far, to see the culture, beauty and history that holds such a significance in Italy. It was fascinating to see the difference between the towns, and their lifestyle and to implement some of their work behaviours into my daily life at Loyola. The family we met were diligent, hardworking, dedicated and generous with their time and resources, they were great models and had many successful stories I hope to learn from. It was also the perfect break from the Year 12 workload to travel and unwind.

What Do You Like Most About Loyola College? The opportunities. Loyola caters to so many interests and I have always found an opportunity that has aligned with my passions. From co-curriculum to school programs and leadership, the opportunities to extend beyond Loyola and develop life skills are endless. I feel like with every new opportunity, I learn valuable skills and life lessons, like being taught about the importance of collaboration and compromise (through leadership), the importance of friendships and mindset (through the musical and house events), and the importance of planning and following through, (through planning different Year 12 events and fundraisers).

What Do You Do to Unwind? I love to take my dog for a walk, see friends or play Nintendo with my siblings. I really enjoy my time off and have learnt to cherish it, it’s so hard to unwind especially with so many pressures of school, work and other external commitments, so any time I do get to unwind I do things that either make me feel energised or will give my brain a break. I also love to sleep or nap so that is probably my best way to unwind.

What Are You Hoping to Achieve by the End of Your Time as College Captain? Honestly, I just hope that we can achieve a better awareness of the importance of physical and mental health and wellbeing. I think it is incredibly important, especially for students, to learn to balance and maintain. It is so hard, and although I have tried so much to find a healthy balance, life fluctuates, so does motivation and it’s very hard to stay consistent, so I would just like to raise awareness and help students realise that they aren’t alone, we are all on this journey together. I would also love to be a face that's known and approachable and continue to promote high level of student voice and participation, with a focus on transparency and action.

Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years? Well, who can ever properly see this. I am aiming to become a Music Therapist so I would love to be in University, but I also know life doesn’t always go to plan, so if not University, perhaps a full time job. I just want to see myself pushing towards success and that’s where I hope I am in 5 years, still determined and set on creating the best life I can make for myself.

What Memories Do You Have From Peers Who Have Graduated Before You? The prior Year 12 cohort were a beautiful bunch of people. After studying an accelerated Unit 3-4 subject last year with them, I have many fond memories of downtime between classes, group projects, parties, the musical and leadership. It was a lot of fun and they taught me that it’s important to have support and a good network by your side, and most importantly they taught me how to let loose and enjoy the little things that make this difficult year enjoyable and worth it.

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Loyola College has a proud history in the Performing Arts. We currently have Alumni performing in shows all over Australia including Nick Eynaud (L: 05-10) in La Cage aux Folles and Samantha Dodemaide (L: 01-06) in Moulin Rouge. We caught up with two former students who would like to uphold this strong history as they start in their first year of study at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA). Hannah Chesser (L:17-22) is studying Bachelor of Arts (Music Theatre) and Rachele Stefanatos (L:17-22) is studying Bachelor of Arts (Arts and Cultural Management). WAAPA only enrols 20 students in each course, so Hannah and Rachele have already been identified as amongst some of the best young talent in the country. We asked Hannah and Rachele about their experiences so far, how they are adjusting to life in Western Australia, and what their plans are for the future.

Hannah Chesser (L:17-22) What made you choose to study Music Theatre at WAAPA? I have always idolised notable WAAPA graduates such as Lucy Durack, and Lucy Maunder in the way they perform and create art. I guess seeing them perform in huge, high scale Australian productions inspired me to study where they studied. I also think that in my research about WAAPA’s Musical Theatre program, and some gentle nudges from my high school teachers, it became the academy that inspired my aspiration to study, and then work in the MT industry. WAAPA offers such a renowned, professional, and intensive program of training that is both domestically and internationally recognised, that I saw it as a huge opportunity to give myself the best shot at professionally pursuing this line of work. In spite of this, musical theatre was and always will be my passion, and the idea of getting to do it every single day was all the motivation I needed to audition.

What has been your favourite aspect of the course so far? I was super surprised at the level of integration between the first, second, and third year MT students. From the moment we arrived here at WAAPA, we were welcomed with open arms to the community, and celebrated as like-minded artists with a passion for performing. The welcoming, and nurturing environment of the campus and my peers is something I can’t describe, and it is certainly not what I was expecting to this level. In addition to that, another thing I have thoroughly enjoyed while studying here has been the intensive study of music theory, and vocal anatomy. I never realised how much this knowledge would help me when putting performance into practice, and it has made me that much more conscious of how I use my voice, and it has provided me with some eye opening moments when I discovered that some of my singing habits are not particularly healthy. With insightful private vocal coaching, in such a short time, I have noticed so much improvement in my vocal health and awareness, and it makes me all the more excited to explore it much more over the next three years. The facilities here at WAAPA are also nothing short of amazing. Getting to work in beautiful, and professional studios and practice rooms inspires me everyday, and I don’t think younger me would believe it if I said I was dancing in some the best dance studios I have ever seen. The campus is definitely another one of my favourite parts about studying here.

How have you found adjusting to living in Western Australia? It has just been the most amazing, yet scary and surreal thing I have ever done in my life. Moving away from your family as a freshly 18 year old is something I don’t think anyone could prepare for, and I was definitely no different. I am lucky to be living in a beautiful apartment, but finding my ground as a completely independent person has been scary! Little things that we take for granted like planning what you will eat every night and making sure you take lunch every day has been difficult. And of course knowing my beautiful family aren’t available to hug and talk to whenever I want has been the biggest challenge for me. However, moving across the country has shown me a strength that I never knew I had in me, and being in Perth is the perfect opportunity for me to focus completely on my training. Discipline and resilience is needed when tackling this intensive style of study, and being here in Perth, with my pure focus being to train, is the perfect way for me to stay focused. Coming home to Melbourne for my uni breaks is a reward for that! And it makes me appreciate everything I have at home that little bit more. In saying that, WA, and Perth specifically is just beautiful, and I can’t complain with the fact that I live 15 minutes from some of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen! The beautiful scenery of Perth has made adjusting to this lifestyle super fun, and inspiring.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced so far? I would definitely have to say that being without my parents and sister was, and still is, huge for me. I consider myself quite the homebody, and it was really difficult for me to get used to them not being here with me. Aside from that, adapting to a full time study load was also a challenge. Being at uni from 8:30 to 5:30 most days of the week is huge! Considering we also have around 6 dance classes a week, keeping my energy up throughout the day was another thing I really had be conscious about.

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What do you miss about Loyola It goes without saying that the performing arts faculty really took a step up in my VCE years at Loyola. It would be hard to ignore that! It gave me so many opportunities to explore the world of performing, with high quality productions, and an amazing overall PA program. Moving away from Performing arts though, the one thing I will always be grateful for is my teachers, especially the ones who helped me through year 12. A special shout out to MOK, Mr McFarlane, Mr Moore, and Mr Lee, who were always there to support me, and to be a friendly face to go to when VCE got tough. I think without the amazing teachers at Loyola, I could have had a very different experience with high school, and so for that I am so grateful.

What are your goals for after you finish your degree? My obvious end goal is to have a sizeable career in professional musical theatre, (Broadway, The West End and all that jazz). Performing in all three disciplines of MT (Singing, Acting Dancing) is so rewarding, in a way I don’t think I’ll ever be able to describe, and the potential of making a career out of that at the end of this degree is beyond exciting. However I think my degree is so diverse that straight acting and plays are some things that I would love to explore in a professional environment as well, as I probably have always considered myself to be a bit of an “actor first performer”. I think there is a certain magic in great acting, and it is a field I haven’t been able to explore at a performance level as much as I have with MT and voice. On the other hand, as I was originally heading into beginning an engineering degree before WAAPA was locked in (I know…strange), in the long run, I can see myself heading down a path of audio engineering and sound design for professional theatre companies as well! But for now, I am definitely aiming to see my headshot in some programs across Australia in the big leading musicals, and from there I will see where life takes me!

Rachele Stefanatos (L:17-22) What inspired you to pursue Arts and Cultural Management at WAAPA? I have always loved the performing arts since I was young doing dance and drama classes but when I got to high school I became super fascinated with all the behind the scenes that goes into facilitating the arts and that's when I found this course that was exactly what I wanted to learn more about.

What has been the most interesting thing you have learned in your course so far? How much really goes into putting on a performance. It’s not all about the creative aspects, there are a lot of legal frameworks and business aspects that need to be considered before a show can even start the creative process.

How have you found adjusting to living in Western Australia? It was definitely hard at first not really having any family up in WA but with school being so full on and getting straight into the swing of things as soon as I arrived really helped me settle in. There are still some days that I’m definitely a bit homesick but it’s all worth it in the end.

What skills do you think you have gained from your role as assistant producer for Legally Blonde? I gained so much experience from working on Legally Blonde. Especially the whole management of backstage has definitely helped me a lot with my first big practicum. Without helping on Legally Blonde I honestly would have been so lost, it helped me learn all about working in a community, the crossover between managers, creatives, performers, designers and technicians. Working as an assistant producer on Legally Blonde definitely gave me the foundations I need for my course.

What do you miss about Loyola? I definitely miss theatre class the most, that class held some of my best memories from high school. I also miss obviously all my friends that I used to see five days a week, university is very different in that aspect.

What are your plans for the future after you finish your degree? After finishing my course I’m hoping to either get my masters in directing from NIDA or arts and cultural management from VCA. I then hope to work for a big production company such as Michael Cassel or Disney Theatrical Productions as an associate producer and casting agent and maybe if I get the opportunity open my own production company. I also really want to work on the facilitation of the arts to low socioeconomic areas and to people who may not get the opportunities that I was fortunate enough to have in the arts.

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Research and Interviews conducted by Michael O’Keeffe (L:92-97;09-12;17-22)

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Jacqui Licciardo – (L:89 -93) After graduating from Loyola in 1993, I undertook my Bachelor of Biological Sciences at La Trobe University. I always knew I wanted to be a teacher, I come from a long line of teachers. My other passion was science, and in an ever-changing world, my studies didn’t disappoint. I majored in Genetics and Microbiology and after finishing my undergraduate, I applied to study in the Faculty of Education. At the time, I didn’t realise that my journey wouldn’t end there. After completing my Diploma of Education with a major in Science Education, I was offered a position to undertake my Master of Teaching. University life was good, and I found a happy medium through research and further education. Later that year, I was approached by a friend to teach a Science class in a Department of Education high school on a temporary basis. I was excited to have my own classes. Well that two-week temporary class, turned into 23 years of teaching and leading different areas within the College. The connections and friendships I made and the learning I undertook, fostered my passion for teaching. As well as working full time, I continued my studies within the Faculty of Education at La Trobe University. I graduated from my master’s degree and was then offered a position in the Doctoral program. I was living my best life, working, and researching. I finally graduated with my Doctor of Educational Psychology in 2012, and while it was sad to close the chapter on being a student, I was finally ready to leave La Trobe and begin the next chapter of my life. In 2008, I married my husband Dean. We have three children, and our eldest started Year 7 at Loyola College this year. How special it was that my son was going to be in the same rooms I was in and experience the same opportunities I had. After 23 years of working in the same school I finally left, after successfully being appointed the Professional Development Coordinator and a teacher in my old high school, Loyola College. This year, the class of 1993 celebrate 30 years of graduating, and what a coincidence, 30 years later, I am now teaching in the very rooms I was taught in. What an amazing place to be; a past student, a current teacher, and a parent of a current student.

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More than a century after the ANZAC legend was forged at Gallipoli, the sacrifice of Australians in war has again been honoured at Loyola College. Joined by special guest speaker Lieutenant Colonel Claire Baker, Colin Brooks MP, Kate Thwaites MP and representatives from the Watsonia RSL, this year’s service provided us with an opportunity to pause, remember and acknowledge those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.