Winter Edition 2026
FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE CELEBRATING GROWTH, ACHIEVEMENT AND CONNECTION ACROSS OUR COMMUNITY AS WE CONTINUE SHAPING STRONG FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE.
CREDITS Please address all correspondence and editorial content to: Advancement Office Salesian College Chadstone 10 Bosco Street Chadstone VIC 3148 advancement@salesian.vic.edu.au Editorial Team: Suzie McErvale Trudy Skarajew Brodie Grewcock Content Coordination: Trudy Skarajew Proofreader: Emma Borghesi Front Cover: Paul Gosney Graphic Design and Printing: DMC Group Editorial Contributions: Mark Ashmore Klara Baka Anton Occhiuto Michael Savage James Sullivan Suzie McErvale Trudy Skarajew Dimitri Tsitsikas Nadia Knight Brodie Grewcock
ON THE COVER
Foundations for the Future
Featuring the Mannix Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct, a significant milestone in the history of Salesian College Chadstone. More than a building, it represents our commitment to creating a place where every student feels known, supported and inspired to thrive as they begin their secondary school journey.
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SHARE A STORY We seek out past and present students who inspire and encourage us to strengthen our Salesian community. Whether they have impacted thousands of people or just those nearby, what unites them are their foundations and values. If you have a story to share, or know someone who does, we want to hear from you.
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Email: advancement@salesian.vic.edu.au
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Photographic Contributions: Paul Gosney George Ketels Suzie McErvale Trudy Skarajew
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CONTENTS
IN THIS ISSUE
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Foundations for the Future are shaped not only by what we build, but by the values, relationships, and opportunities that guide us each day.
From the Principal Page 6
A New Chapter in the Living Story of Salesian College Chadstone Page 10
Mannix Year 7 & 8 Learning Precinct Page 12
2025 Outstanding VCE Results Page 13
2025 College Dux Page 14
2025 Hall of Fame Inductee & 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees Page 16
2025 Young Achiever Page 17
Alumni Events Page 18
MCG Business Lunch 2025 Page 20
The Educator Awards Page 21
Next Generation Uniform Page 22
Alumni Supporting the Next Generation Page 23
From Gift to Future Page 24
We Are Salesian — Dimitri Tsitsikas Page 25
Vale Fr John Prest SDB Page 26
Vale Fr Frank Moloney SDB OAM Page 27
Community Announcements
In this Winter edition of The Griffin, we reflect on a year of growth, achievement, and shared purpose across our College community. At the centre of this is a clear focus on creating environments where our young people feel known, supported, and inspired to become their best selves. Principal Mark Ashmore shares key milestones for the College, including the opening of the Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct; a significant step in strengthening the foundations of learning, belonging, and wellbeing for our youngest students. This edition also reflects on the blessing and official opening of the Mannix Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct, a milestone that marks a new chapter in the story of Salesian College Chadstone. The occasion was made even more significant by the return of Most Reverend Archbishop Tim Costelloe SDB, Archbishop of Perth, past student, former teacher, former Rector, and former Chair of the College Board, who returned to bless the precinct and lead the official opening ceremony. We celebrate the outstanding 2025 VCE results, recognising the dedication of our students, staff, and families in supporting each young person’s journey. The strength of our community connections is also a defining theme of this edition. Through our Hall of Fame, we honour alumni whose lives reflect leadership, service, and integrity, while stories of alumni engagement demonstrate the powerful impact of past students giving back to the next generation. The ongoing evolution of the College is reflected in initiatives ranging from our next-generation uniform, designed with both tradition and contemporary learning in mind, to national recognition as a 2026 5-Star Employer of Choice, following our recognition as a 2025 5-Star Best School. These honours reflect a College committed to excellence, where outstanding education is strengthened by a culture that enables both staff and students to flourish. At the heart of our story is the enduring spirit of generosity that has shaped the College since its earliest days. From the original gift of land to the opportunities created for students today, we are reminded that every contribution, large or small, helps build a future grounded in hope and belonging. As you turn these pages, we trust you see the strength of a community working together; supporting one another, celebrating achievement, and creating opportunities for the generations to come. Suzie McErvale Director of Advancement
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FROM THE PRINCIPAL Mark Ashmore Principal
Foundations for the Future As we step into our 69th year as a College, 2026 invites us to reflect on how our past, present, and future continue to shape one another. This year is defined by growth, renewal, and a deepening of the Salesian Charism that lies at the heart of our Mission. It is a privilege to share the many milestones that strengthen our foundation and inspire the path ahead.
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A New Era: The Mannix Year 7 & 8 Learning Precinct A major highlight of the year to date was the opening of the Year 7 & 8 Learning Precinct at the Mannix Campus in April. This transformative project stands as one of the most significant developments in the College’s recent history. This precinct is more than a building — it is a commitment to our young learners. Designed to
incorporate contemporary, flexible spaces that encourage curiosity and collaboration, it provides an environment where students feel welcomed, supported, and inspired. As we celebrate over six decades of educational service, this new precinct is a powerful marker of progress and vision for the generations who will begin their secondary journey within its walls.
Celebrating Excellence: 2025 Academic Results The release of the 2025 results affirms a truth central to our Mission: when we truly know our young people — their stories, passions, and potential — they are encouraged to thrive. This year, we celebrate several students who achieved ATARs above 99.0 in 2025, alongside many outstanding study scores across a wide range of subjects. These achievements reflect the dedication of our students, the expertise of our staff, and the supportive partnership of families who share our belief in encouraging our students to strive for personal excellence whilst developing young men who have become ‘good Christians and honest citizens.’ National Recognition for Our People and Our College
Enrolment Growth and the Salesian Promise
In another significant milestone for 2026, Salesian College Chadstone has been named one of The Educator’s 5-Star Employers of Choice, following our recognition as a 2025 5-Star Best School. Together, these national honours celebrate excellence across both education and workplace culture, affirming the strength of our people, our shared mission and the Salesian spirit of accompaniment that shapes the experience of every student.
Our enrolment numbers continue to grow, with many families seeking a Salesian education grounded in community, the Preventive System, and our College Values. This approach ensures their children will
Guided by the 2026 Strenna This year’s Salesian Strenna, Do whatever he tells you: Believers free to serve, challenges us to be people of hope who walk with others — and that’s where this year really began. The Strenna invites us once again to reflect deeply on our Salesian identity and to ensure that our relationships and actions continue to be guided by presence, joy, and loving kindness. As a global family, we draw strength from this shared theme, grounding our work in a vision of hope and accompaniment for every young person.
be known, valued, and supported to grow academically, spiritually, and emotionally, and it has led to an increase in our student numbers to more than 980 in 2026, with further demand for placements in future years. This ongoing growth both affirms and energises us as we plan for the next phase of development and opportunity. Honouring Our Story: College History Project I am delighted to announce that the College has commissioned Dr Daryl Barclay, a recently retired staff member and respected historian, to write the official 70-year history of the College. We look towards this significant milestone, knowing that Dr Barclay’s work will help us recognise, preserve, and celebrate the people, events, and spirit that have shaped our community since its founding. This project will ensure our story is captured with accuracy, warmth, and a deep understanding of our Salesian identity. Strengthening Alumni Connections Our alumni remain one of our greatest strengths, and each person who has walked through the Chadstone gates is valued in our community. The bonds formed here within year groups and across generations, continue to grow into lifelong friendships, support networks, and shared celebrations. This year, we continue to welcome our community to the increasingly popular and enriching Hall of Fame Breakfast, Reunion Day, Heritage Lunch, and the MCG Business Lunch, each of which offers a special opportunity to reconnect and honour our shared legacy. As we continue to build strong Foundations for the Future, we do so with pride in our past, confidence in our present, and great hope for the years ahead.
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A NEW CHAPTER IN THE LIVING STORY OF SALESIAN COLLEGE CHADSTONE Trudy Skarajew Marketing Coordinator
Mannix Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct: Blessing and Opening On Monday 4 May 2026, Salesian College Chadstone marked one of the most significant milestones in its 69-year history with the official opening and blessing of the Mannix Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct. For a generation of Salesian students, the Mannix Campus holds a special place in the story of the College. Long before it became home to our Year 9 students in 2005, the land on which it was built carried the hopes of those who believe deeply in Catholic education, Salesian formation, and the future of young people. Today, that same spirit lives on within the Mannix Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct, in a new and profoundly meaningful way. The precinct’s opening completed Stage 1 of the College Masterplan, a bold and carefully considered vision for the future of Salesian College Chadstone. Developed through a listening phase with students, families, staff, and the wider community, it asks an important question: How do we best use our two campuses to serve young people today, while honouring our history and preparing for the future? The answer has now taken shape at the Mannix Campus.
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A Precinct Designed for the Middle Years Learning The new precinct brings together our Year 7 and Year 8 students in a dedicated environment designed for the middle years of secondary school. These years shape confidence, friendships, character, and the foundations for what comes next. Principal Mr Mark Ashmore, while addressing guests at the opening, reminded them that the event was about much more than the completion of a building project. ‘Today’s opening is not simply about a new building,’ he said, ‘but about renewing that commitment to the growth and flourishing of young people entrusted to our care.’ That commitment sits at the heart of the Salesian tradition. In the spirit of St John Bosco, Salesian education has always understood that young people thrive when they are known, loved, and guided. The opening ceremony was led by Most Reverend Archbishop Tim Costelloe SDB, Archbishop of Perth, whose connection with Salesian College Chadstone is both personal and profound. Archbishop Tim is a past student, Dux of the Class of 1971, former teacher, former Religious Education Coordinator, former Rector, and former Chair of the College Board. His return to Chadstone for this occasion gave the day a special depth. ‘It is a great thrill for me to be here,’ he shared. ‘Salesian College Chadstone has played a very important role in my life. I first set foot in this College when I started in Year 7 in 1966.’ His words carried the weight of lived experience. He spoke not only as Archbishop but as someone shaped by this College: someone who has walked its grounds as a boy, a teacher, a priest, and a leader.
Archbishop Tim then reflected on the enduring Mission of the College, founded in 1957 by the Salesians of Don Bosco. He spoke of Don Bosco’s care for young people and of the need for a school to be a place where students feel safe, valued, and encouraged. He described the College’s Mission as one ‘to provide the very best education possible for young people, and to provide an atmosphere, an environment, where young people feel safe, secure, valued, and encouraged to be the very best version of themselves that they can possibly be.’ This vision is now written into the life of the Mannix Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct, which includes the Bartholomew Garelli House for Year 7 students and the Michael Magone Centre for Year 8 students. They were named in honour of two young people whose stories are central to the Salesian tradition.
Archbishop Tim described them as ‘two boys with very different stories and very different characters but who both needed the same thing: a sense of hope, a welcoming and encouraging environment, the realisation that they were valued, respected, and in the best sense of the word truly loved.’ These words speak directly to the purpose of the new precinct: to support students during transition from primary school into secondary school. It is a defining period in a young person’s life, when students are stepping into new routines, new expectations, new friendships, and a new sense of independence. As Mr Ashmore reflected upon in his address, ‘At Years 7 and 8, students are navigating new routines, expectations, relationships, and identities. What they need most at this stage is belonging, structure, and connection. It calls for an environment that is welcoming, structured, relational, and safe.’ During the homily, Archbishop Tim shared the two boys’ stories, reminding students, staff, and guests that Don Bosco’s work began with a simple act of welcome: Bartholomew Garelli was a young boy who found his way into a church sacristy in Turin, seeking shelter. When the sacristan tried to send him away, Don Bosco intervened, saying, ‘Why are you treating such a good friend of mine so badly?’ Michael Magone, by contrast, was described by Archbishop Tim as ‘a bit of a rough diamond’: a boy full of energy and spirit. Don Bosco did not try to make Michael someone else, however. Instead, he helped him direct his enthusiasm and passion towards life, goodness, and purpose.
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A History that Still Shapes Us The Mannix Campus itself carries a remarkable history. Before classrooms and courtyards, the land was an orchard and farming property owned by the Moroney family. In 1945, Louisa Moroney generously donated the land to Archbishop Daniel Mannix for the Mission of the Church. The Archbishop Mannix Missionary College opened in 1947, with Archbishop Mannix present for the occasion. From army huts, unsealed roads, and extraordinary hope, a story of Catholic education began to take shape. Mr Ashmore honoured this history, noting that: ‘The College was about formation, vocation, and the belief, so central to the Salesian spirit, that young people flourish when they are known, loved, and guided.’ A Shared Vision Brought to Life As part of the Masterplan, the College worked in partnership with McIldowie Partners and Newpol Construction to reimagine the Mannix Campus as a contemporary home for early secondary learning. A project of this scale reflects a shared commitment, carried over time and brought to life through collaboration.
The College extends its sincere gratitude to McIldowie Partners and Newpol Construction, whose care, professionalism, and understanding of the vision ensured that this precinct is not only functional but purposeful. Their ability to listen and translate that vision into spaces that support young people is central to the success of this project. Alongside them, consultants and partners contributed their expertise with generosity and attention to detail, helping to shape an environment that will support learning, connection, and growth for years to come. Archbishop Tim formally opened Bartholomew Garelli House and the Michael Magone Centre with words that captured the hope of the day: ‘May these buildings be a place of welcome, learning, engagement, joy, and faith. May those who enter these spaces always see education as a gift and privilege, and an opportunity to be a transformative presence in the world.’ This milestone belongs to all who are part of the Salesian College Chadstone story, including the many past students whose connection to the College continues well beyond their years on campus.
‘This, of course, was Don Bosco’s secret. He once told his Salesians that it was not enough for them to love and care for the young people under their protection: those young people had to know, because it was obvious to them by the way they were treated, that they were loved and cared for.’ As Salesian College Chadstone looks to the future, the Mannix Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct stands as a sign of hope, confidence, and renewal. It is Stage 1 of a Masterplan shaped through listening and brought to life through shared belief. It is a home for our youngest secondary students, a continuation of our story, and a promise to the future. On 4 May 2026, Salesian College Chadstone did more than open a new precinct. It opened a new chapter in the living story of the College. In Mr Ashmore’s closing words:
May it be a place of welcome, of belonging, of growth, and of joy. May it honour the vision of those who came before us, and may it form generations of young people yet to come.
Archbishop Tim’s reflection also reminded us that the heart of Salesian education is in relationships: 9
MANNIX YEAR 7 & 8 LEARNING PRECINCT Klara Baka Assistant Principal – Learning and Teaching
A New Era of Learning: Inside the Mannix Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct With the opening of our new Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct, our school stepped into a chapter rooted in our founder Don Bosco’s simple belief that ‘Education is a matter of the heart’. The precinct is more than a building: it’s a learning ecosystem where belonging and confidence come together to support students as they begin secondary school. Spaces with Purpose, Learning with Heart From the moment of entry, the precinct feels open and intentionally crafted for how young people learn today. Flexible furniture and zones allow spaces to shift from quiet study to vibrant collaborative areas, while beneath the flexibility lies vital clarity and predictability. The precinct’s design is supported by research led by Monash 10
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University that found students moving into secondary school navigate physical, organisational, social, and pedagogical changes that shape wellbeing and engagement. Schools that reduce complexity and increase predictability through clear wayfinding, consistent routines, and transparent expectations, combined with a community atmosphere, help students transition with less anxiety. A Home that Welcomes Transition can be exciting and simultaneously daunting. Monash University describes the early weeks as a big learning curve with workload, shifting expectations, and unfamiliar environments leading to heightened stress. Students report that they need familiar, predictable, welcoming spaces where they feel known. Our precinct has been designed with that in mind, to create a welcoming home
for our Years 7 and 8 students which, by reducing anonymity and amplifying connection, provides exactly what they value: peer connection, predictability, and spaces in which to develop gradual independence. It also supports staff in their efforts to build strong relationships, provide timely feedback, and maintain continuity of care, and so it becomes a tangible expression of Don Bosco’s belief that ‘Education is the formation of the whole person’. A School that Prepares for Life One of our core Salesian Values is ‘Belonging’. The Australian Education Research Organisation places it at the core of effective transition, and it is perhaps the strongest indicator of a successful transition. This underscores the need for predictable routine, along with spaces for connection and quiet. Hence, a considered learning environment that, especially in the first
year, signals inclusivity and cultural safety while enabling peer interactions and teacher proximity fosters stronger connections and a sense of belonging. Our Mannix Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct provides each student with a classroom for their Oratory, which supports collaborative projects and social learning, as well as space for quiet reflection and self-regulation. The adjoining teacher areas are designed to provide teachers with visibility over, and access to, students. These design choices aren’t simply stylistic: they are strategic, intended to ensure each student feels seen, safe, and included. In this way, the principle ‘Teach the young with love and they will learn’ becomes a reality. Meanwhile, flexibility enables differentiated support: some students are ready for autonomy; others need more scaffolding. Open collaboration spaces help build new peer networks while supporting teacher–student relationships in moments of guidance. The precinct has been designed to enable teachers to team-teach, regroup learners quickly, and personalise support. A Playground where Friends Meet Outside spaces have been designed to cater to all students. Whether students wish to play sport during breaks, sit and chat in the sheltered area near the new cafe, or walk around the newly landscaped areas, the Mannix Year 7 and 8 Precinct has been designed with these activities in mind. The spaces allow students to build relationships with both their peers and teachers, while keeping active and participating in events and celebrations that foster inclusivity and joy.
A Parish that evangelises Everyday students are reminded to live in accordance with Don Bosco’s vision and mission of ‘doing the ordinary things extraordinarily well’. This is supported by the Oratory program, which guides our students towards a truly unique Salesian way of being by providing them with significant experiences of faith in action and formation. Each day, the students notice references to Dominic Savio, our Catholic identity, and our connection to Country through the well-positioned reflective garden and art installations, Holy Cross, and indigenous garden converging at the entry to the Year 7 building within the precinct. The Holy Cross on its north wall provides a connection between the main Bosco
Campus and the Mannix Campus, with each both sharing the same design, size, and appearance. Walking up the connecting stairs between the two buildings, a series of liturgical and Salesian quotes on the step risers provide strong reminders of the College’s Catholic tradition and Salesian Charism. Our Gathering Space in the Bartholomew Garelli House provides warmth with reference to Salesian icons and mosaics representing the Gospels. A Foundation for the Future Perhaps most powerful is what this precinct represents for students’ futures. By uniting heart and evidence, it creates a place where young people feel safe, inspired, and capable — today and in the years ahead. As the precinct fills with conversation, creativity, and courageous learning, every student who walks through its doors will be supported not just as a learner but as a whole person — ready to grow, contribute, and shine. Our hopes and dreams for our students and community are to live our Learning Vision, which states: At Salesian College, in becoming our best selves: We cultivate our knowledge of God, self, and the world. We build the skills to think, reflect and create. We foster the values of courage, hope and love.
Scan or click to book a Morning School Tour of our new Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct.
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2025 OUTSTANDING VCE RESULTS The Salesian College Chadstone community commends all students from the Class of 2025 on the completion of their VCE and VCE Vocational Major studies and acknowledges the dedication, commitment, and support that staff and families provided to ensure students reached their potential during the 2025 academic year.
Our 2025 VCE results showcase not only the remarkable achievements of our students but also the critical role played by their families, teachers, and peers in supporting them. Together, we have nurtured an environment that values perseverance, determination, and the pursuit of excellence.
On behalf of our school community, we would like to congratulate our 2025 College Dux, Anton Occhiuto, who achieved an outstanding ATAR of 99.4. See page 9 for further details about Anton’s achievements and plans for the future.
We are confident that our graduates will embrace the world with the teachings of the Oratory and live out our College Values with heart and mind, carrying forward the spirit of Don Bosco.
Highlights ATAR of 95 or Higher: 2025 8% ATAR of 90 or Higher: 2025 23% ATAR of 80 or Higher: 2025 39% 50 Perfect Scores: Mahdyar Sabzi Vand — English as an Additional Language Dux: 99.4 Study scores of 40 and over: 72 ATARs 90 and above: 31 Students above ATAR 99.0: 3 A perfect study score of 50 in English as an Additional Language (Mahdyar Sabzi Vand) One study score of 49 in Psychology (Anton Occhiuto) Five study scores of 48 in English (1), Environmental Science (1), General Mathematics (2) and Physics (1) 8 Year 11 students with scores over 40 VCE Completion Rate: 100% VCE Vocational Major Completion Rate: 100% VCE Baccalaureate: 6
We also congratulate our 2025 College Proxime Accessit Mahdyar Sabzi Vand, who achieved an outstanding ATAR of 99.15. Mahdyar was a gentle and motivated student with a strong dedication to his learning and his community. He worked diligently throughout his VCE to achieve excellent results.
Knowing our students and their stories is something Salesian College Chadstone prides itself on, and this understanding allows us to celebrate not only their achievements but also their unique journeys.
Congratulations to our VCE Vocational Major Student of the Year Anthony Riccardi, who consistently demonstrated hard work, dedication, and resilience across his classes, projects, and events. He was a strong advocate for the Applied Learning Program, representing it positively throughout his time at the College.
CLASS OF 2025 HIGH ACHIEVERS (ATAR of 90 or above)
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Scan or click to read our full breakdown of outstanding 2025 VCE results.
2025 COLLEGE DUX Anton Occhiuto (SCC 2025)
Our 2025 Dux, Anton Occhiuto, achieved an outstanding ATAR of 99.4, putting him in the top 0.06% of all Year 12 students in Australia. Anton achieved a study score of: • 49 in Psychology • 48 in Environmental Science • 48 in General Mathematics (2024) • 44 in Literature • 43 in Visual Communication Design • 43 in Food Studies. Anton has now undertaken study in his first preference, a Bachelor of Design at The University of Melbourne majoring in Architecture and Environmental Architecture. Read below about how Anton maintained his focus and motivation throughout the 2025 year, leading to his achieving such high results, and also about his aspirations for the future. It is truly inspiring to see young men like Anton stepping out into the world, ready to contribute to our wider community. What motivated you to work hard in Year 12? I was really motivated by the people around me: my teachers and my friends. I genuinely liked all my teachers, and their commitment to helping us learn made a huge difference. And honestly, a bit of friendly competition with my friends pushed me too. I’m
friends with quite a few of the high achievers, so trying to keep up with them was definitely part of it. Beyond that, I think I just have a natural drive to do well. I wanted to see how far I could go. The supportive atmosphere at school made me feel like I really could achieve something great, and that motivated me to give it everything. In what ways did your teachers support you throughout Year 12? My teachers were incredibly knowledgeable and committed. They were always happy to spend one-onone time with us, whether in class, in the library, or over email. They provided very clear feedback leading up to SACs and exams, which really helped me understand what to focus on. Their communication and willingness to help outside of class made a huge difference. What lessons have your relationships at Salesian taught you? Because many of my classes were small, we built really close, supportive groups. We shared resources, helped each other through challenges, and developed ideas together. Teaching concepts to friends also helped consolidate my own learning. The sense of community between teachers and students was one of the most valuable parts of Year 12.
What piece of advice would you give to current students? Choose subjects you actually enjoy. I had a bit of an unusual mix, but it worked because I was passionate about them. When you enjoy a subject, the work doesn’t feel as heavy. Also, balance is essential: quality of study is more important than the number of hours. Do things you enjoy outside school, and don’t burn yourself out. What has been the most rewarding part of your Year 12 journey? Definitely the relationships. Having many of the same teachers and classmates for two years built strong connections. The small classes meant more individual attention, more chances to contribute, and a really supportive learning environment. Getting to know everyone so well and growing together made the whole experience so rewarding.
Scan or click to explore our 2025 VCE Results and Achievements publication, featuring the full interview with Anton.
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2025 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE Michael Savage (SCC 1980)
Michael Patrick Savage is a visionary entrepreneur, tourism pioneer and community leader whose career has inspired thousands of young people across Victoria. A Vice-Captain of Salesian College Chadstone in 1980, Michael was recognised early for his leadership and determination. After graduating, he earned a place at the Royal Military College, Duntroon, before deciding to pursue a different path. Following a period of travel and work in Darwin, he returned to Melbourne and cofounded a plastering business, taking the first steps in what would become an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey. Michael’s most significant achievement began at Arthur’s Seat on the Mornington Peninsula, where he transformed a modest restaurant and maze garden into Enchanted Adventure, one of Victoria’s most beloved tourism destinations. Through innovation, creativity and a commitment to delivering memorable experiences, he built a business that has welcomed generations of visitors.
His contributions to tourism have been recognised through numerous industry honours, including awards from Tourism Australia, Visit Victoria and the Telstra Business Awards, as well as being named a Tourism Legend on the Mornington Peninsula. Beyond business success, Michael is widely respected for his commitment to mentoring young people. For more than 25 years, thousands of young employees have gained their first job under his leadership, developing confidence, professionalism and valuable life skills. A passionate advocate for community and environmental stewardship, Michael has consistently used his success to support local initiatives and create opportunities for others. He is a proud father of Millie, Patrick, Hunter and Yuki, and continues to divide his time between Victoria and Tasmania. In 2025, Salesian College Chadstone proudly inducted Michael Savage into the Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding leadership, entrepreneurship and service to the community.
2026 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE Senator Raff Ciccone is an Australian parliamentarian whose career has been defined by public service, advocacy and leadership. A member of the Class of 2001, Raff was an active contributor to College life during his years at Salesian College Chadstone, serving as School ViceCaptain, SRC Secretary and Music Captain. In 2000, he represented the College at World Youth Day in Rome. He has often credited College teachers Mr Donohue and Mr Sestito with recognising his interest in politics and encouraging him to engage with public life, helping to shape the direction of his future career.
he became a strong advocate for working Australians. Among his most significant achievements was helping recover stolen wages for exploited 7-Eleven workers, many of whom were international students who had been severely underpaid.
In 2024, Raff became the first father to bring his newborn son into the Australian Senate chamber, a moment that reflected both his commitment to family and the evolving nature of leadership in public life.
His early career spanned public policy, financial planning and the trade union movement, where
Raff’s journey reflects a lifelong commitment to service, leadership and creating positive change for others.
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(SCC 2001)
In 2019, Raff became the 100th person sworn in to represent Victoria in the Australian Senate. Since entering Parliament, he has taken on significant national leadership responsibilities, including serving as Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security and Chair of the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee.
Following graduation, Raff completed studies in Public Policy and Commerce at Deakin University before undertaking Honours in Political Science and Governance at the University of Melbourne.
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Senator Raff Ciccone
In 2026, Salesian College Chadstone proudly inducted Senator Raff Ciccone into the Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding contribution to public life and service to the Australian community.
2026 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE Dirk Nannes is an international cricketer, commentator, entrepreneur and former elite freestyle skier whose career has spanned winter sport, professional cricket and business. A member of the Class of 1991, Dirk first developed his sporting talents during his time at Salesian College Chadstone, where his competitive spirit and determination were evident from an early age. In 1988, while playing for Salesian in Year 7, he earned his first bowling trophy, marking the beginning of an extraordinary sporting journey. Dirk first rose to prominence as an elite mogul skier, representing Australia on the international stage and competing in FIS Freestyle Skiing World Cup events throughout the 1990s. His success in skiing reflected the discipline, resilience and courage that would become defining qualities throughout his career. Following his retirement from professional skiing, Dirk made the rare transition to elite cricket. Renowned for his pace and competitiveness, he became one of the fastest bowlers in
the modern game. He represented both Australia and the Netherlands, honouring his Dutch heritage, and competed in major domestic and international competitions around the world, including the Big Bash League and the Indian Premier League. In 2010, he was the leading wicket taker at the ICC T20 World Cup, cementing his reputation as one of the game’s premier Twenty20 bowlers. Following his playing career, Dirk has remained closely connected to cricket as a commentator and media personality, sharing his insight and experience with audiences around the world. He has also built a successful business career across hospitality, travel and a range of entrepreneurial ventures.
Dirk Nannes
(SCC 1991)
the Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding achievements in sport, media and business.
Dirk’s journey from Salesian student to Olympian, international cricketer and entrepreneur reflects a willingness to embrace new challenges and pursue opportunities with courage and determination. In 2026, Salesian College Chadstone proudly inducted Dirk Nannes into
2026 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE Michael Logarzo is one of Australia’s leading tennis coaches, recognised for his contribution to high performance sport, athlete development and the mentoring of young people. A member of the Class of 1996, Michael was a talented student athlete during his time at Salesian College Chadstone. He served as a Year 12 Leader and was a member of the College’s winning Victorian Secondary Schools Team Tennis Championship team in 1996. His success continued beyond school, becoming a National Champion, representing Australia and competing professionally on the international tennis circuit. Following his playing career, Michael transitioned into coaching, embarking on a journey that would establish him as one of Australia’s most respected development coaches. After leading a tennis academy in New York, he returned to Australia in 2009 and quickly built a reputation for developing some of the country’s most promising young athletes.
Throughout his coaching career, Michael has worked with National Junior Champions, Australian junior representatives, state teams and Tennis Australia development squads. His work has taken him to all four Grand Slam tournaments and onto the professional tour, coaching elite players including Zoe Hives, whom he guided from junior tennis to the main draw of both the Australian Open and Wimbledon, and Daria Saville, a former Top 20 player on the WTA Tour.
Michael Logarzo (SCC 1996)
His contributions to the sport have been recognised through numerous honours, including Tennis Victoria Coaching Excellence Development Coach of the Year in 2022 and 2025, the Women’s Tennis Coaching Association Spirit of Tennis Award, and selection as a finalist in the 2025 Newcombe Awards Coaching Excellence Development category.
In a fitting full-circle moment, Michael now leads the Tennis Coaching Program within the College’s Sports Academy, bringing his experience and passion back to the College community.
As Founder and Director of Michael Logarzo Tennis, a Tennis Australia National Talent Hub, Michael continues to shape not only athletes, but confident, resilient and capable young people.
In 2026, Salesian College Chadstone proudly inducted Michael Logarzo into the Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding contribution to sport, coaching and youth development. 15
2025 YOUNG ACHIEVER INDUCTEE James Sullivan (SCC 2009)
James Sullivan is a lawyer, advocate and community leader whose career has been shaped by a commitment to integrity, service and creating opportunities for others. Today, James is a leading lawyer in the Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s (ASIC) Markets Enforcement team, where he has played a significant role in major investigations that uphold ethical standards and strengthen the integrity of Australia’s financial markets. His work has been recognised through two Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards, receiving honours in the Government category in 2021 and Banking and Finance in 2022.
2025 Hall of Fame
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Beyond his legal career, James is passionate about empowering young people and supporting the next generation of leaders. He serves as Chair of Youth Without Borders and founded the CIArb Australia Vis PreMoot, now Australia’s largest arbitration mooting competition. Through these roles, he has helped create opportunities for students to develop their confidence, advocacy skills and leadership potential. In 2025, Salesian College Chadstone proudly recognised James Sullivan with the Young Achiever Award in recognition of his professional achievements, leadership and contribution to the community.
2026 Hall of Fame
2026 UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS Salesian College Chadstone is proud to present our 2026 Alumni Events program. These events are designed to strengthen connection, celebrate achievement and ensure our alumni community remains actively engaged with today’s students.
Scan or click to book in for our Alumni Events.
Heritage Lunch Join us for the 2026 Heritage Lunch as we bring together members of the Salesian College Chadstone community for a relaxed and meaningful afternoon. We warmly invite all alumni from the Class of 1976 and earlier to reconnect, share stories, and enjoy time with those who have been part of the College’s journey. We also extend this invitation to those connected to Sacred Heart Girls’ College who were part of the broader Salesian community. The day will begin with optional tours of the College, offering a chance to walk through the grounds, revisit familiar spaces, and see how the College has evolved over time. Date: Friday 21 August 2026 Optional College Tour: 11:10am Location: S alesian College Chadstone 10 Bosco Street, Chadstone 2026 Reunion Day Salesian College Chadstone warmly invites alumni to come together and celebrate their milestone reunions. It is a great opportunity to reconnect, reminisce, and reflect on the memories that shaped your time at the College. We are delighted to welcome back the following year groups:
From there, we will make our way to lunch at Metropolitan Golf Club, where you will enjoy a quality meal in a welcoming setting, with plenty of time to reconnect and celebrate your shared history. Lunch: 12:30pm – 4:30pm Location: M etropolitan Golf Club Golf Road, South Oakleigh, Victoria 3167 This is a wonderful opportunity to return, reconnect, and enjoy the company of fellow alumni. We encourage you to bring along classmates and friends to make the day even more memorable. If you have any difficulty booking online, please feel free to contact Community Ambassador Brodie Grewcock on 03 9807 2644 or via email at alumni@salesian.vic.edu.au, and we will be happy to assist you. We look forward to welcoming you back.
Date: Saturday 24 October 2026 Time: 2:00pm – 5:00pm Location: S alesian College Chadstone 10 Bosco Street, Chadstone Tickets: $ 20 per person, including woodfired pizzas and drinks
• Class of 2016 – 10-Year Reunion • Class of 2006 – 20-Year Reunion • Class of 1996 – 30-Year Reunion • Class of 1986 – 40-Year Reunion
Book as a group and save, with 10% off when purchasing 5 tickets or 20% off when purchasing 10 tickets.
Class of 2025 1 Year Reunion
Date: Thursday 26 November 2026 Time: 4:30pm – 6:00pm Location: S alesian College Chadstone 10 Bosco Street, Chadstone
We are pleased to invite the Class of 2025 back to the College for your 1 Year Reunion. The first year after finishing school often takes everyone in different directions. This is an opportunity to come back together, reconnect with your year level, and see what everyone has been up to since graduating.
Gather your classmates, take advantage of the group savings, and lock it in. We look forward to welcoming you back. Partners are warmly welcome.
This will be a relaxed and informal catch up, with no formalities, just time to reconnect with familiar faces and enjoy being back at the College. Complimentary pizza and soft drinks will be available. Free entry. Registrations are essential. 17
MCG BUSINESS LUNCH 2025 Suzie McErvale Director of Advancement
On Thursday 27 November 2025, we hosted the Salesian College Chadstone MCG Business Lunch, presented by our Platinum Sponsor, Newpol Construction. The afternoon brought together business leaders, alumni, parents, partners, and friends of the College, all united by a shared commitment to our students and the Values that underpin a Salesian education. Now in its second year, the event is gaining clear momentum. After welcoming 96 guests in our inaugural year (2024), attendance grew to 136 in 2025, reflecting the strength of our community connections and the appetite for an event that combines professional engagement with an authentic sense of purpose. The theme for the 2025 event was Leadership with Purpose. In the tradition of St Francis de Sales, we invited every young person ‘Be who you are, and be that well’. We don’t simply teach our young people: we walk
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with them, helping them to recognise their strengths, navigate challenges, and develop the courage to show up with authenticity in a world that needs grounded, compassionate leaders more than ever. That mission relies on the right environment. Today’s young people face increasingly complex challenges in learning, wellbeing, and identity and, as educators, we must respond with spaces that honour who they are becoming: environments that cultivate confidence, connection, and curiosity. It was in this context that we shared our vision for the new Mannix Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct that opened in April 2026. Designed for the most formative years of adolescence, the precinct will strengthen belonging, engagement, and academic confidence through learning spaces created specifically for boys: flexible classrooms, breakout zones, makerspaces and specialist studios that encourage movement, curiosity, and connection. Beyond these spaces sits
the heart of the campus: Bosco’s Pump, play areas, gathering places, and spaces for reflection, each supporting spiritual, academic, social, and physical growth. We were honoured to welcome Ben Crowe as our keynote speaker. One of the world’s most respected mindset coaches and storytellers, Ben’s work spans athletes, executives, and organisations each seeking meaning and clarity. His message about selfawareness, pressure, and leading with integrity was especially relevant for the times we are navigating. Planning is already underway for the 2026 SCC MCG Business Lunch on Thursday 19 November and we warmly invite our community to be involved whether as a guest, table host, sponsor, or corporate partner. To register your interest in attending or partnering in 2026, please contact the College Advancement Office via email: advancement@salesian.vic.edu.au
2025 MCG Business Lunch Platinum Sponsor
! u o Y k n Tha
We thank NewPol Construction for their outstanding work in delivering the College’s new Mannix Year 7 & 8 Learning Precinct and for the tireless efforts they have contributed to the Salesian community. Their commitment to the project has helped create a modern and inspiring space that will benefit students for many years to come. We are also very grateful for their generous Platinum Sponsorship of the MCG Business Lunch, which supports the continued growth of our alumni and community initiatives. 19
SALESIAN COLLEGE CHADSTONE RECOGNISED AMONG AUSTRALIA’S LEADING SCHOOLS AND WORKPLACES Trudy Skarajew Marketing Coordinator
Salesian College Chadstone has been recognised by The Educator as one of Australia’s 2026 5-Star Employers of Choice, celebrating the College’s commitment to staff wellbeing, professional growth and an outstanding workplace culture. This follows the College’s recognition as one of Australia’s 2025 5-Star Best Schools, reinforcing its reputation for excellence in both education and organisational culture.
The 2026 5-Star Employers of Choice award recognises the College’s investment in creating a workplace where people feel valued, connected and supported to grow. Initiatives including Youth Mental Health First Aid training, psychosocial risk assessments, a College-wide Wellbeing Action Plan and ongoing professional learning contribute to a culture where staff can thrive, ultimately enriching the educational experience of every student.
Together, these recognitions reflect a College that is committed to excellence in both education and culture, understanding that the quality of a student’s experience is shaped by the people who walk alongside them each day.
The College’s people-first culture complements the strengths recognised through its 2025 5-Star Best Schools award. That recognition acknowledged excellence in learning, wellbeing and innovation, including diverse senior pathways, the Select Entry Beretta Program, the Year 9 China Academic Program, leading sporting partnerships, investment in contemporary learning environments and a steadfast commitment to student wellbeing and child safety.
Guided by the teachings of St John Bosco, Salesian College Chadstone places accompaniment at the heart of everything it does. Grounded in the College’s core values of integrity, respect, belonging, joy and dynamism, this commitment shapes not only the experience of students, but also the way staff are supported, developed and empowered to flourish.
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Principal Mark Ashmore said the two awards together recognise the strength of the College’s shared purpose.
“We are delighted to be recognised by The Educator as a 2026 5-Star Employer of Choice, following our recognition as a 2025 5-Star Best School. Together, these awards acknowledge a community where people are genuinely known, supported and encouraged to flourish. They reflect our belief that when staff experience a culture of care, belonging and professional growth, our students benefit every day. We are incredibly proud of our staff, students and families, who together continue to shape a community grounded in excellence, hope and the Salesian spirit.” For alumni, these recognitions affirm that the values which shaped their own experience at Salesian continue to define the College today. They are a reminder that while much has evolved, the College remains committed to forming young men of character, purpose and hope within a community where accompaniment continues to guide every step.
Watch the interview with Principal Mark Ashmore and The Educator.
NEXT GENERATION UNIFORM Trudy Skarajew Marketing Coordinator
For generations of boys walking through the gates at Salesian College Chadstone, our College uniform has been a symbol of community and identity. Since the College opened in 1957, students have worn it with pride, helping to unite them as young men educated in the Salesian tradition of faith, service, and personal excellence. In the early decades, the uniform was distinctly green and gold, the original school colours which was woven into blazers, jumpers, and ties. These colours reflected the pioneering spirit of a school growing rapidly in the post-war years, as classrooms filled and campus buildings rose on Moroney’s Hill. Times change, and with change comes evolution. In 2003, after careful review, the uniform and colours were
modernised from green and gold to the now familiar palette of navy, silver, and red. This shift reflected the College’s progressive educational direction while maintaining the sense of identity and pride that generations of Salesians cherish. In December 2025, the College embarked on a new chapter with the launch of its next-generation uniform. Designed in collaboration with the Uniform Group and renowned Australian fashion designer Peter Morrissey, the collection balances timeless tradition with contemporary comfort and functionality. Students, families, and staff contributed insights through workshops and fabric trials to ensure the new range is practical for daily learning, adaptable across seasons, and aligned with the way young men move, learn, and grow today.
The academic collection blends classic elements including blazers, shirts, trousers and jumpers, while layering pieces with modern sensibility, and the sports range prioritises activity and comfort. The new blazers carry special details that link students to the heart of our community. This includes the Salesian Charter, which is based on the Preventive System of reason, religion, and loving kindness and which guides students to learn with purpose, grow with care, and to know that they are loved. It is woven into the pocket of the blazers as a visible reminder of the educational and spiritual mission of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Also included is the Griffin emblem, which is subtly embedded in the buttons of the blazer, and the Salesians of Don Bosco emblem on the collar, which connects students to the broader Salesian community and reinforces that they are part of something bigger than themselves. These details ensure the uniform reflects the College’s Values, history, and identity. From the bold green and gold of the early years to the navy, red, and silver that define this generation, our Salesian College Chadstone uniform continues to reflect the story of our community. It remains a living part of the College, linking the generations of young people who enter our Bosco Street gates. 21
ALUMNI SUPPORTING THE NEXT GENERATION Brodie Grewcock (SCC 2024) Community Ambassador
In 2025 our alumni community continued to play an important role in supporting and inspiring the next generation of Salesian students. Through a range of visits, presentations, and mentoring opportunities, alumni generously shared their experiences and insights, helping students better understand the opportunities that lie ahead after their time at the College. One of the highlights of the year was the visit from Senator Raff Ciccone (SCC 2001), who spoke with our Year 12 Global Politics students about his journey from school to the Australian Senate. He shared valuable insights into public service, leadership, and the pathways that led him to federal politics. Hearing directly from someone who has reached such a significant position helped students recognise that their ambitions can take them in many different directions and that the foundations built at Salesian can lead to remarkable opportunities.
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We were also fortunate to welcome back John Stretch (SCC 1962), who visited the College on two occasions. John first worked with our Year 11 History students, sharing reflections on his experiences connected to the Vietnam War and providing personal insights that helped bring this important period of history to life. He also addressed the Year 10s, speaking about the realities and impact of war, and generously returned to the College to celebrate Remembrance Day with our community. Recent graduates also returned to share their knowledge with current students preparing for their final examinations. Members of the Class of 2024 provided practical advice about study strategies, exam preparation, and managing the pressures of Year 12. Joel Knight (SCC 2024) delivered a specialist Mathematics masterclass, while Jordi Dermitzakis (SCC 2024) and Liam Matteo (SCC 2024) ran a masterclass for Year 12 Software Development students. Their sessions gave students a clear and relatable perspective on how to succeed in their studies.
Our VCE Vocational Major students also benefited from the generosity of Colin Lear (SCC 1966), who hosted a tour of the Tasty Fresh factory. The visit provided valuable insight into industry and entrepreneurship, demonstrating how passion, commitment, and vision can transform an idea into a successful business. Alumni engagement was also a key feature of the Subject Selection Information Evening, where students had the opportunity to speak directly with past students about their experiences and the pathways they chose after leaving the College. These conversations helped students make more informed decisions about their studies and future goals. Together, these experiences enriched learning across the College and strengthened the connection between past and present members of the Salesian community. The continued presence of alumni reminds our students that their future is full of possibility and that the journey beyond Salesian can take many exciting forms.
FROM GIFT TO FUTURE Suzie McErvale Director of Advancement
Before there were classrooms and ovals filled with boys in conversation and competition, there was only open land and a gift.
heart of Bosco’s Well reflect our understanding that the early years of adolescence are formative and deserving of intentional design.
School Building Fund Creating inspiring, contemporary spaces for today’s learners.
In the 1950s, at the recommendation of Archbishop Mannix, Miss Louisa Maroney, the daughter of a pioneering Oakleigh family, donated 50 acres to the Salesians. It was an act of quiet conviction. Nothing stood there yet except possibility. Within that possibility was a belief that young people in Melbourne’s then rural Chadstone deserved a place to belong, to learn, and to grow.
Yet the core vision remains unchanged. St John Bosco’s pastoral commitment to belonging, character, and faith continues to imbue everything we do.
Scholarship Fund Opening doors for students with commitment, talent, or need.
In 1956, three classrooms and a hall rose from an open field near Waverley Road. By February 1957, the College had opened its doors to 61 boys in Forms 1 and 2. The staff were educators, mentors, and steady presences in the lives of the young. The College grew quickly. Three additional classrooms were added in 1958 as enrolments reached 110 boys. By 1959, with 160 students across Forms 1 to 4, an administration block stood proudly, tennis courts had been built, and the oval extended. What began as a gift of land was becoming a living community. Our College began with belief and with one person’s generosity creating the conditions for thousands of young lives to unfold. Today, the landscape looks different. Building developments and technological advancements reflect our commitment to progress. The new Year 7 and 8 Learning Precinct, with its flexible classrooms, breakout spaces, makerspaces, and the contemplative
Recently, an anonymous gift committed to funding a full 6-year Fr Frank Moloney Memorial Scholarship for a student from a migrant family experiencing genuine financial need. It’s a powerful reminder that the founding spirit of this College is still alive: generosity didn’t end in the 1950s. It continues today in quiet, humble ways, opening doors and strengthening our shared mission. Every member of our community can play a part in shaping what comes next. Through support of the College’s funds, alumni and friends help create the spaces, opportunities, and resources that will serve generations of boys to come.
Library Fund Fuelling curiosity through access to quality resources and welcoming study spaces.
If you feel moved to support this vision, you are warmly invited to contribute via this QR Code.
Our story began with a gift. Its present, and its future, are being shaped in the same way, by those who believe that education grounded in belonging and hope is worth investing in. Your generosity helps us continue this mission. By supporting our College Funds, you contribute directly to the learning spaces, resources, and opportunities that shape the futures of our young people.
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We Are Salesian Dimitri Tsitsikas (SCC 2009)
From student to parent, Dimitri Tsitsikas (SCC 1994) has come full circle at Salesian College Chadstone. Returning to the College through a different lens has given him the chance to reflect on the values, experiences, and sense of community that helped shape his journey. In our latest ‘We Are Salesian’ story, Dimitri shares how purpose-driven leadership has guided his professional life and what inspired his involvement with the non-profit organisation It’s Philanthropy, supporting educational projects in some of the world’s most disadvantaged communities. You graduated from Salesian in 1994 and are now a parent at the College. How does it feel to see the school through a different lens all these years later? It is very special, and I am genuinely pleased to now see the school from a different perspective. As a student you are focused on your own world at the time, your friends, and simply finding your way. Coming back now as a parent, I see much more clearly the role the College plays in shaping young people, not only academically but also in character, values, and confidence. What stands out to me now is the sense of community and the importance of helping young people believe in themselves. That is something I appreciate more deeply with time. You realise education is not only about learning subjects. It is also about helping form the person you become. You are involved in It’s Philanthropy, which focuses on funding educational projects in some of the world’s poorest communities. What motivated you to become part of that mission? I have always believed education can change the direction of someone’s life. When you see communities where access to schooling is limited or simply not available, it really puts many things into perspective. One of the reasons for launching It’s Philanthropy was the belief that learning and opportunity can shift 24
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everything. When a child learns to read, when they have a safe place to learn, and when they feel supported and encouraged, it can completely change how they see themselves and their future. I was drawn to this mission because it is about creating real change, not in an abstract way, but in a very human and practical one. To begin this project and be supported by family and friends in something that helps give children hope, dignity and opportunity is incredibly meaningful. It reminds you that even what may seem like a small contribution can have a lasting impact when it is directed in the right way. It’s Philanthropy speaks about creating a fairer and more equal world through education. In practical terms, what does that look like on the ground? On the ground it looks very practical and very real. It can mean classrooms being built, children having books and school chairs, teachers being supported, or students receiving a meal at school so they can concentrate and learn. These things may sound simple, but they are often the building blocks of transformation. What I find powerful is that it is not just about providing something in the moment. It is about creating the conditions for long-term change. A book, a teacher, a classroom, or a meal are not just resources. They are opportunities. They give a child a better chance to define a different future for themselves.
That is what creating a fairer and more equal world looks like in practical terms. It is helping communities build from the ground up through education, one child, one family, and one village at a time. As someone who has built a career, supported a family and invested in philanthropy, what advice would you give to current students about defining success in a meaningful way? I would say not to define success too narrowly. Of course it is important to work hard, aim high, and make the most of your opportunities, but success is about more than titles, money, or recognition. Real success is about the kind of person you become, how you treat people, the relationships you build, and whether you use your life to make a positive difference. Sometimes the difference between opportunity and disadvantage is something as simple as access to education, support, or encouragement. If you are fortunate enough to receive those things, it is worth thinking about how you can help create them for others. Work hard, stay grounded, and try to build a life that reflects your values. That, to me, is a very meaningful kind of success.
Scan or click to read more stories on our We Are Salesian page.
VALE FR JOHN PREST SDB Nadia Knight Faith and Mission Leader
Salesian College Chadstone honours the life and contribution of Fr John Prest SDB, Principal of the College from 1990 to 1994 and again from 2002 to 2006, whose presence and leadership left a lasting impact on the College community. Born in Essendon, Victoria, on 26 July 1941, Fr Prest made his Religious Profession at Lysterfield on 31 January 1968. He was ordained to the priesthood at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Melbourne, on 24 May 1975. Fr Prest was a gentle and deeply relational man who brought warmth and authenticity to every interaction. He lived with a quiet gratitude, often encouraging others to recognise and appreciate the richness of each day.
and bringing to life the Mannix Campus for Year 9 students. Opened in 2005, the Mannix Campus offers a dynamic, interactive, and service-driven curriculum, recognising the unique developmental needs of young people at this stage of their education. Central to this was the Bosco Day program, where students engaged with the wider community and experienced service in action. As part of this initiative, a celebration day was introduced, providing an opportunity for parents to attend, observe, and celebrate the life learning experiences their children had completed.
He also strongly believed in the power of partnership between staff, students, and parents, fostering a collaborative approach to education that sought the best possible outcomes for every young person. Fr Prest entered eternal life in Melbourne on 10 October 2025. His impact on Salesian College Chadstone is both significant and enduring. His legacy lives on in the culture of care, connection, and community that he helped to shape: a legacy grounded in faith, joy, and a deep commitment to others.
Throughout his years of leadership at the College, he was known for his approachable nature and strong presence within the school community. He was regularly found in the yard with students, often with a football in hand, building genuine connections and sharing in the everyday life of the College. He attended Associated Catholic Colleges matches with enthusiasm and was a passionate Essendon supporter. A trained teacher before entering the seminary, Fr Prest held a deep commitment to education and to the holistic formation of young people. He was especially devoted to those on the margins, consistently placing the needs of others at the centre of his work and ensuring that every student and staff member felt seen, known, and valued. His loud and animated laugh was unforgettable, reflecting the joy he carried and shared so freely. In living the Salesian spirit so fully, he had a remarkable ability to recognise and affirm the unique gifts in each person he encountered. Fr Prest was also a man of vision, always seeking ways to improve the College while remaining grounded in its Catholic and Salesian traditions. During his second tenure as Principal, he played a key role, alongside the College Leadership Team, in envisioning
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VALE FR FRANK MOLONEY SDB OAM Trudy Skarajew Marketing Coordinator
The community of Salesian College Chadstone remembers with gratitude the life and contribution of Fr Frank Moloney SDB OAM, a renowned Australian biblical scholar and devoted member of the Salesians of Don Bosco, who died peacefully on 8 November 2025, aged 85. Born in Moonee Ponds, Fr Frank was one of four children of Denis and Mary Moloney. Educated by the Christian Brothers at St Bernard’s College, he spent his adult life formed by the Salesian tradition. A lover of sport and a talented district cricketer, Fr Frank first taught at Salesian College Rupertswood in the 1960s as a scholastic and was ordained there in 1970. Fr Frank also spent important years at Salesian College Chadstone, serving as community Rector and as a lecturer at the formation house on the Oakleigh Hill. During his time here, he guided young Salesians preparing for ministry and contributed deeply to the life of the College community. Those who 26
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encountered Fr Frank remember his wisdom, gentle manner and the generosity with which he shared his knowledge and faith.
more recent years served as Emeritus Professor at Australian Catholic University and Senior Professorial Fellow at Catholic Theological College.
He also worked closely with College staff, providing deeply impactful professional learning on the Gospels and the Salesian Charism. He helped to engage staff in meaningful reflection to deepen understanding of faith and tradition. Despite his considerable scholarly achievements, he remained deeply humble, always placing service to others at the centre of his work.
His contribution to the wider Church was also significant. Appointed by Pope John Paul II, Fr Frank served three terms on the International Theological Commission to the Holy See over 18 years, the only Australian to do so.
His work as a scholar would later take him around the world. Widely respected as a leading authority on the Gospel of John, Fr Frank held senior academic roles including Professor of New Testament at Catholic Theological College, Foundation Professor of Theology at Australian Catholic University, and Dean and Professor of New Testament at The Catholic University of America. He later held the Katherine Drexel Chair of Religious Studies in Washington, DC, and in
From 2006 to 2011, Fr Frank served as Provincial of the Salesians of Don Bosco in Australia, guiding the congregation with wisdom, faith and care for others. In his later years he continued to serve as Rector at Sunbury, facing illness with courage and quiet strength. Fr Frank Moloney has had an extraordinary impact on Catholic and Salesian communities in Australia and across the globe. Those who encountered him at Salesian College Chadstone remember his wisdom, generosity, and deep faith. His scholarship, leadership, and humanity have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.
TRIBUTE Phillip Semmens – It is with great sadness that we inform the Salesian College Chadstone community of the passing of Phillip Semmens. Phillip passed away on 9 December 2025, aged 77, after a period of illness. He taught at the College from 1984 to 1986, where he was a passionate History teacher and Form Teacher for the Year 12 class of 1986. He will be remembered for his generosity, intellect, and sense of humour, as well as his valued contribution to the College community. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.
LONG SERVICE AWARDS We also celebrate the following staff members for their long-standing service to the College.
Mary O’Sullivan 25 Years
Adam Croft 20 Years
Gesualda Cafasso 15 Years
Daniel Campisano 15 Years
Steven Loonstra 15 Years
Rob Mercer 15 Years
Sani Poulose 15 Years
Sarah Roberts 15 Years
Nicholas Shaw 15 Years
Lydia Triafylos 15 Years
Craig Giles 10 Years
Simon Lloyd 10 Years
Rachel Morais 10 Years
Alexandra Tsiavis 10 Years
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS Congratulations to Languages and International Education Learning Leader Alvin Zhang and wife Wendy He, who welcomed Owen into their family on 20 February 2026.
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10 Bosco Street Chadstone Victoria Australia 3148 T +61 3 9807 2644 ABN 74 645 109 208 www.salesian.vic.edu.au