Always Aloysius, Winter 2022

Always Aloysius ST ALOYSIUS

WI NTER 2 0 2 2

Celebrating 135 Years 1887 - 2022

The St Aloysius College uniform throughout the decades, and introducing the 2023 uniform.

Contents Principal’s Welcome ......................... 2 Class of 2021 Results........................ 4 Student Leadership 2022................. 6 Mother’s Day Breakfast.................... 7 ACS and SCSA Sports....................12 House Athletics Carnival................14 Update on Building Works.............16 Year 7, 2023 Welcome Evening.....18 Alumni Profile: Sr Sylvia Williams RSM...................20 Alumni Profile: Rina Prinzi..............23 Combined One Year Reunion........27 New Staff Welcome .......................28

Enrolment St Aloysius College invites enrolment applications for the coming years. The Year 7 2024 enrolment deadline is on Friday, 19th August. Should this be of interest, we advise you to contact our College registrar at registrar@aloysius.vic.edu.au or 03 9325 9200 at your earliest convenience.

Article Submissions Do you have an interesting story of your time at St Aloysius you wish to share?

We would love to hear from your. Please email alumni@aloysius.vic.edu.au or call 03 9325 9200.

Always Aloysius | Winter 2022

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Principal’s Welcome MARY FARAH, PRINCIPAL

Welcome to the Winter Edition of Always Aloysius!

As I write ‘winter’ I can’t help but think how quickly 2022 is passing by, and how publications such as Always Aloysius perhaps allows a few moments to reflect and let our minds wander.

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Hopefully, as an alumna of St Aloysius, when your mind wanders fondly back to student days in North Melbourne you remember the amazing people you met, the friendships you formed and the fire that was lit in your belly to strive for higher things. Whether it was five years ago, or fifty, chances are the memories warm your heart and make you wonder ‘whatever happened to…?’ or better yet, spark an urge to reach out to an old friend you’ve not heard from in a while. It’s your alumni so feel free to reach out.

This year marks the 135th anniversary of the founding of our wonderful school. Next year, 2023, is another pivotal point in a proud history of learning and teaching when we return to co-education, just as the school first began educating girls and boys in the 1880s. In preparation, we will launch a new uniform and new curriculum, and we are making significant investments to our infrastructure and grounds.

Fittingly, our theme for 2022 is Respect, a core value at the heart of Mercy Education. More on all this in the pages to come. Also, in this edition of Always Aloysius, you will find articles providing more information on our amazing student outcomes, our new staff, sports and more!

In celebration of our 135 years, I gave a speech on St Aloysius Day which reflected upon significant moments in our history. Below are a few paragraphs from the speech: On this very special St Aloysius Day, we can in fact celebrate three acts of founding, which in themselves provide the key themes that are central to the history of the school and still resonate in our lives and our work here today.

The first act of founding, our first story if you like, is that of St Aloysius himself.

Aloysius de Gonzaga was born into a wealthy Italian family in 1568. He was the eldest of seven children. The name Aloysius is Latin, the Italian version of his name, and the one his family

probably used, is Luigi. In 1585, at the age of 17, he gave up his inheritance and joined the Society of Jesus. In 1591 plague broke out in Rome, and rather than leave, Aloysius stayed to look after the sick but contracted the plague and died at the age of 23. His love of study and his self-less acts in looking after the sick, resulted in his canonisation in 1726 when he became the Patron Saint for young students and Christian youth. The story of St Aloysius is one that has resonated through every year of our 135 years of history.

Our second act of founding actually occurred in 1886 when Mother Xavier Fallon, with five other Sisters of Mercy, established the first Convent of Mercy in North Melbourne, in a terrace house on Flemington Road, just opposite what is now the Royal Children’s Hospital.

In 1887, in response to parent requests to provide a “Select Day School for Young Ladies”, the Sisters started to teach French, Singing and Drawing to a few students – this was the very first class of our school. In 1890 the sisters moved to this present site and provided primary and secondary coeducation.

Sister Gonzaga, who was Principal from 1920-1924, had a major influence on the growth and direction of the school. She changed the name to St Aloysius College, after her own patron saint and adopted his motto ‘Strive for Higher Things’ and primary classes were phased out in 1952 to cater for a rapidly growing secondary sector.

And then we have a third act of founding, or perhaps more accurately, we can call it a re-founding. As I just mentioned, in the first few years of our 135 years, our college was coeducational and in 2023 we in fact return to our beginnings. This refounding will bring with it new stories, just as each of us here today has our individual experiences of St Aloysius College, a full spectrum of life, when

combined, we form a tapestry of stories that is beautiful, inspirational and challenging. This is what St Aloysius Day is all about – combining our unique stories into one rich tapestry, one of 135 years of history and one with such an exciting future.

Please enjoy this edition of Always Aloysius

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Class of 2021 Results The College motto, Ad Altiora, means to Strive for Things That are Higher. We are so proud of every student for their perseverance, their courage and their dedication under such challenging circumstances.

We congratulate our 2021 Cohort for their efforts and fantastic results, and will watch with great interest the journeys of these remarkable young women

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St Aloysius College is proud to share with its community the outstanding VCE results and achievements of its 2021 Year 12 cohort.

Further highlights among the results of this year’s cohort reflect the commitment and hard work during a challenging year and include:

Demonstrating their extraordinary resilience, the graduating class excelled across the board. Overcoming the many obstacles they were faced with in another tough year, this cohort continues the College’s reign with results deeming St Aloysius College the best-performing inner-city Catholic school.

The average ATAR of the top 20% of students is 95.0

With 50% of Year 12 VCE students ranking in the top 20% of the state (ATARs at or above 80), College principal, Mary Farah is delighted.

“These results are extraordinary, and truly do reflect the commitment and hard work of our teachers, students and leadership team, not only across 2021, but throughout the educational journey of this cohort. We must also congratulate and thank all parents, the value of the support provided for students learning remotely cannot be understated.”

The average ATAR of the top 50% of students is 88.7 VCAL students achieved 100% success VET Students achieved 100% success Study scores of 40+ were achieved in 63% of Unit ¾ Subjects Overall Median Study score of 32 The College also acknowledges the great personal performance of the VCE Dux of St Aloysius College for 2021, Amelie Milazzi, who achieved an ATAR of 97.95. Excellent results were also achieved by Elise Ho, with an ATAR of 97.5 and April Sawan who achieved 97.1.

Congratulations to all 2021 Students Destination Course Study Areas

29%

27.5%

18.8%

15.9%

8.7%

4.3%

4.3%

1.4%

Health

Education

96.8 Average ATAR of top 10%

Society & Culture

Architecture & Building

80+

ATAR achieved by 50% of students

Commerce

Science

Creative Arts

Engineering

40+

93%

Study score achieved in 15 subjects

First Preference Offers

Destination Selection RMIT

Latrobe University

University of Melbourne

Vic Uni

ACU

Swinburne

Monash University

The future belongs to the Curious Always Aloysius | Winter 2022

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Student Leadership 2022

ALYSSA AMERICO

SAVANNAH CLARK

KATELYN BARTLETT

College Co-Captain

College Co-Captain

Creativity Prefect

CAROLINE BUSELLI

MANASA CHANDRAPATLA

MARIA EID

ANGELA FOULSTONE

KAITLYN GATT

ABBI JONES

KYARAH-JAYNE PUMO

BIANCA RECINOS

CHLOE ROUSSY

ELIZA SKEELS

Liturgy Prefect

Arts Prefect 6

McAuley House Prefect

Student Action Prefect

Verdon House Prefect

Scully House Prefect

House Cup Prefect

Social Justice Prefect

Fallon House Prefect

Sports Prefect

Jocelyn Bignold, CEO of McAuley Community Services for Women (left), with College Principal Mary Farah and McAuley House Prefect Manasa Chandrapatla.

Mother’s Day Breakfast On Friday, 6th May St Aloysius College hosted its annual Mother’s Day Breakfast. We were fortunate to be joined by Jocelyn Bignold, OAM, the CEO of McAuley Community Services for Women. The College, with the support of our wider community was delighted to be able to have raised $1,700 for McAuley Community Services. Below we share the meaningful words delivered by Jocelyn to St Aloysius students and their parents.

McAuley Community Services for Women responds to women and children in need by providing housing where possible, and addressing immediate needs that cover: •

Practical support such as pyjamas and food

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Emotional support and encouragement

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Access to legal and financial help

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Employment support

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Education support to children who are in motels or crisis accommodation

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Help to settle into new housing

McAuley assists around 800 women and children each year, and, whilst most of our accommodation is in the Western Region of Melbourne and in Ballarat – we do have state-wide accessibility, especially if it’s not safe for someone to stay in their local area and they need to move. We also advocate for the system to change for the better so that fewer people need to access services such as ours. For example, we’d like to see policies from the state and federal governments that guarantee housing for all citizens and eliminate homelessness, and (as family violence is the leading cause of homelessness) we’d like to see more women and children who experience family violence being assisted to remain in their own home.

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We believe that this is a social justice issue. People experiencing family violence, already victims of circumstances beyond their control should not be further penalised by homelessness Using the iceberg as an analogy, let’s explore some of the issues that cause homelessness and family violence, and identify what respect has to do with it.

What you might see: What’s Visible You might see men (and some women), on the streets of Melbourne, begging.

Men sleeping on the streets is a typical image of homelessness – as historically, they make up the predominant, most visible group of people experiencing homelessness. In fact, ‘rough sleepers’ (as they are called) make up only 7% of the homeless population. Women are less likely to sleep on the streets because they are less safe in those circumstances and they are more at risk of sexual abuse in such environments.

Jocelyn Bignold, OAM

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You might see people on the tram talking to themselves and sometimes appearing threatening. A high proportion of people with mental illness are unemployed because they are too ill to work, and as a result live in poverty because Centrelink isn’t enough to live on. They are more reliant on public transport than those of us who can afford a car and are also reliant on social services support.

Because of this, there might be higher concentrations of certain groups of people in particular areas because that’s where the social services support and resources are located..

Perhaps you know of some young people who are moving around, living with friends for a few days at a time (called ‘couch surfing’). Young people will do this when there is conflict or abuse in the home. At first, they will try and stay connected to school – If that becomes too hard, they are more likely to drift into homelessness. You might also see items in the news about family violence and homelessness.

What you don’t see: What’s less Visible What’s less visible is what’s got us to this point, and are considered to be systematic issues out of the control of the individual, such as: •

Centrelink not providing enough money to live on ($43 per day)

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Very high cost of housing in Australia

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Low levels of social housing in Australia

Members of the 2022 College Prefect Team

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Inequality in wages (between men and women)

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Unequal representation in power and decision making; opportunities; lack of representation of diversity in media

Ongoing colonialism and systematic racism against Australia’s First Nations peoples. One of the most obvious manifestations of this is the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in prison and deaths in custody; where Aboriginal health issues are not being taken seriously as an intersectional issue.

Systemic issues result in factors such as overcrowded housing which is the most common form of homelessness and is caused by a lack of safe, affordable and available housing. People living in overcrowded accommodation may find it difficult to study, or access the

privacy they need for good health and happiness. They will also experience greater risk of conflict arising.

Inequality causes Family Violence which in turn is the leading cause of homelessness, especially for women and children.

We know that there are very young children experiencing homelessness, living in motels or cars with their mothers. These living circumstances make it extremely difficult for adults to attend to their own and needs of their children; to cook, to wash their clothes and to experience a feeling of safety.

It’s almost impossible to work with no fixed address and the experience can lead to health issues for both women and children. Frequent relocation can cause primary school aged children to become disconnected from their education, peers and other potential support networks.

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Systematic issues are causing older women to become homeless in increasing numbers – resulting from years of looking after children with no superannuation being paid while they do so, and often working in low paid, casual or part-time jobs otherwise.

Women are especially vulnerable if they separate and need to pay private rental on their own. This often means women are reliant on pensions to survive and if rent becomes unaffordable they risk homelessness. Private rental is insecure tenure and moving around means they lose their neighbourhood connections and risk becoming isolated. Loneliness causes ill-health and then more medical intervention is required.

Family violence includes other forms of abuse, commonly financial abuse, meaning that people experiencing 10

family violence can’t provide for themselves or their families; meaning they can’t escape.

What helps keep this things in place: The Invisible Unexamined underlying assumptions; beliefs and values, that we all have to some degree help to hold system issues in place. For example, we might think that people are undeserving (so if Centrelink was increased then ‘lazy’ people won’t go to work), or we might think that homelessness is a ‘choice’ (and it won’t happen to me; why should I worry?). We also might think that women should protect their children from violence, rather than men should stop*, and that women should leave their home to escape violence rather than men should leave if they cause harm.

We know that more people from Asian decent experienced racism during COVID because of where the virus was said to have originated. We know that more people from African decent experienced racism during ‘so-called’ gang wars….sentiments that were perpetuated by Government representatives. We know that there is ongoing colonisation and systemic racism against Australia’s First Nations People – and the failure to enter into a Treaty for over 200 years. We know that there is discrimination against particular groups such as single mothers in private rental. *Men are more likely to perpetrate violence, and in more forms, than women are. Men who experience violence are less likely to live in fear for their lives and less likely to experience continuing violence if they leave.

So what’s respect got to do with it?

Respect is about having a positive regard for others’ feelings, wishes and rights. It’s about recognising people’s abilities, qualities and achievements.

It’s about having respect for individuals and not judging them for the decisions they are making, and it’s about having an awareness of what our underlying assumptions are.

Respect is an important foundation for seeing people.

By examining how we think, we can help break down the systemic issues that hold people in places of disadvantage and distress. For McAuley Community Services, that includes being mindful of the language we use and always putting people first. It means operating on the basis of identifying people’s strengths, not deficits. It means working in

Production of

partnership with people who seek our support to see what each of us can bring to the table to help. It means understanding the intersecting issues that people experience, most commonly, First Nations people and discrimination; with a stronger likelihood of incarceration and a wellfounded fear of police and the criminal justice system. It means writing records and collecting information in a way that protects people; that honours their experience and helps to advocate for a better response for all people.

And it means being unafraid to challenge and to be challenged when we slip up.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service

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SCSA Sport Semester One What a fantastic semester it has been for Sport at St Aloysius College. After the disappointment of not being able to participate in most sports over the past two years, our girls have embraced the many opportunities this semester.

Our junior squads consisting of Year 7’s and Year 8’s have had some amazing results this semester.

Highlights include Indoor Cricket (3rd), Swimming (1st), Futsal (2nd), Badminton (2nd) & Basketball (2nd).

The most pleasing aspect of our Juniors has been their willingness to commit to early morning training sessions.

Our intermediate squads consisting of Year 9’s and Year 10’s have also had some outstanding results across 12

majority of sports. Highlights include Tennis (3rd), Swimming (1st), Futsal (1st) & Basketball (3rd). In the Division Two Intermediate Futsal Championship, Abbey Luke (Year 10) was awarded the medal for Best Grand Final Player The Senior Cohorts of Year 11 & 12 are making the most of their final years of schooling by getting involved and setting the example for our younger year levels. Highlights for our Seniors this semester include Swimming (2nd), Futsal (2nd) & Badminton (3rd).

Special mention to our Cross Country squad who competed in tough conditions and all got through the course. Lila Casey (Year 8) finished in 7th place in the Junior Division and Eve Zabarauskas (Year 10) finished in 5th place in the Intermediate Division.

Congratulations to all students who participated and competed in sport throughout Semester 1!

ACS Sport Semester One Our Year 7s have made history this semester, being the first cohort from St Aloysius to compete in the Association of Co-Education schools (ACS). We are now halfway through both the Summer & Winter Seasons of ACS. We currently have three Volleyball teams and a Tennis team for the Summer Season, and three Netball and two Basketball teams for the Winter Season.

Below are the ladder positions for each of our teams: Tennis 6th

Volleyball A 6th Volleyball B 5th

Our Year 7 students also had the opportunity to compete in the ACS Athletics & Swimming carnivals this semester. We had 9 students represent the College in Athletics and their attitude and effort towards their events was outstanding. We also had 6 participants who competed extremely well in freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke & butterfly in the Swimming Carnival.

Congratulations to all Year 7 students who have represented the College in the ACS this semester. We look forward to competing in Semester 2!

Volleyball C 2nd Netball A 6th Netball B 3rd

Netball C 3rd

Basketball A 5th Basketball B 6th

Always Aloysius | Winter 2022

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House Athletics Carnival

House Athletics Overall Results 1st Place – Verdon 780 points

2nd Place – McAuley 772 points

Thursday, 5th May saw the annual House Athletics Carnival take place at Coburg Athletics Track. The competition was fierce as the girls took to the track and field events, supported as always by members of their houses and their exceptional student leaders.

3rd Place – Scully 641 points

Thank you for staff for marshalling and coordinating events, and congratulations to all students who participated, and demostrated excellent effort and house spirit on the day!

Need to update your details with St Aloysius?

We saw some outstanding effort on the day, with our Age Champions crowned as below: House Athletics Age Champions Junior Age Champion – Lila Casey (Year 8) Intermediate Age Champion – Elise Gladman (Year 10) Senior Age Champion – Bianca Recinos (Year 12) In an amazing achievement, Senior Age Champion Bianca Recinos (Year 12) also took out the annual St Aloysius Gift.

Congratulations Bianca on a fantastic day!

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4th Place – Fallon 628

It’s as easy as visiting aloysius.vic.edu.au/ community/alumni and updating your details in the form, or scan the QR code with your phone camera.

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Update on Building Works

The main amenities have included the following:The Creation of a new male student bathroom block in the heart of the campus accessible via the new Airlock, incorporating toilets (including ambulant), showers and changing areas.

The first term semester of 2022 has been a busy one when it comes to College facilities!

Across the Easter Break, work was in full swing to update amenities available to both staff and students and to create additional workspaces.

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An Upgrade of the female student bathrooms to mirror the new male student block

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Creation of a new disabled toilet accessible via new DDA Ramp access

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Refurbishment of toilet facilities at the Brougham St end of the Campus incorporating new change areas in each, catering for both boys and girls

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The Introduction of new Shade Sails to open up the existing East Courtyards as an open air learning space as well providing additional shade

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Gymnasium works have included new toilet facilities, shower and wet room, as well as refurbishment of the floors including new court markings.

Student Facilities •

•

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Health Centre located in the main Student Hub, incorporating »

Two examination rooms

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Two separate toilets

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A waiting / Triage area

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Plus secure storage areas for medicines etc

Seminar Room located in the Design Thinking & Innovation Centre (DTIC) »

Additional learning space

»

ultipurpose, designed for general classwork, club meetings, tutorial M sessions or seminars

»

Location means it can also be used as a study space for VCE students.

Staff Amenities We have created a number of new office spaces allowing confidential conversations to be had with students as well as been staff at a faculty level. Additionally, we have approved plans to create new staff amenities block as other areas are transitioned to Student use. These new staff areas will be available prior to the staff return in Term 1, 2023.

Upcoming Developments Over the rest of 2022, the College will see many new upgrades, including: •

Signage refresh across all campuses to reflect the new branding

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Torquay Campus »

onversion of rooms in the second house into C dormitory-style accommodation

» Improved security, addition of cameras and automated lock system •

IT roadmap for 2023-25 covering all IT related infrastructure

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College Masterplan »

nce endorsed, we will be in a position to share O some of the exciting concepts and hopefully some visualisations as to what the College may look like within a few years (artist’s impression below)

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for all their hard work in developing this contemporary, inclusive and progressive uniform we are sure our students will enjoy for many years to come!

Year 7, 2023 Welcome Evening The debut of the 2023 College Uniform

On Wednesday, 8th June the College was delighted to host the Year 7 2023 Welcome Evening.

With more than 400 attendees made up of future students and their families, the evening commenced with a welcome from College Principal Mary Farah and an address from Christopher Houlihan, the CEO of Mercy Education.

The audience was treated to a Facilities Update by Business Manager Jonathan Stringfellow who shared the exciting developments that have already taken place in readiness readiness for 2023, and also gave an insight into what we have to look forward to with ongoing developments and updates.

Chris Needle shared an overview of the Year 7 Programme of Study, including an update on parent communications, assessment, subjects offered and 18

the overall learning structure at the College. In his presentation Chris highlighted the importance of student agency and shared some information on the Universal Learning Program (ULP).

After we heard from Chris, Siobhan Bloomfield and Tom Madden shared an update on the College co-curricular program, sharing information with students on the broad range of opportunities across various clubs, performing arts, sports and student committees, activities and competitions.

Tamara Lourdes, Year 7 Leader, shared the key orientation dates for this cohort and then came the launch of the 2023 College Uniform! Thank you to Joanna Grujovski, Daniela Franze and the entire Uniform Committee

The night closed out with the introduction by Deputy Principal, Rachel Valentine of the new Parents and Friends Association, Community Connect, followed by a real treat in the form of a preview of the 2023 College Musical, Aladdin JR by the College choir. Tickets are selling fast and available here.

It was truly special to see the St Aloysius College Class of 2028 community getting to know one another, and an evening like this can’t go ahead without the extraordinarily hard work of a large team. We extend our thanks to all staff involved, particularly Jess Ishac and Siobhan Bloomfield for decorating the hall with Student Artwork, Theresa Daunt for her logistical support, all staff who presented on the night, and of course to Antoinette Martelli and Connie Tsironis for organising the delicious catering.

We are so excited to welcome the Year 7 2023 cohort to St Aloysius in just over six months’ time!

Mercy Education CEO Christopher Houlihan

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Rina Prinzi (left), Sr Sylvia Williams (middle) and College Principal Mary Farah (right) at the 135 Year St Aloysius Day Celebrations

Sylvia Williams, St Aloysius School Ball, 1960 (when school balls were Girls Only!)

SR SYLVIA WILLIAMS RSM

On St Aloysius Day, we were privileged to host Sr Sylvia Williams.

Sr Sylvia has dedicated her life to the Mercy values. First as a student of St Aloysius College, then as a Sister of Mercy and after that spending 30 years as a school principal in various schools. Sr Sylvia has been the Director of the Board of Mercy Education for the past 6 years and Chair of the Board for the past 4 years and announced her retirement in 2022. Below, Sr Sylvia reflects on a life of Mercy.

I commenced at St Aloysius College as a Year 9 student in 1959. At that time the College was 72 years old – just over half of the age it is today. Yes, it was a long time ago. So, what was it like?

it dropped us at school it continued on with passengers going to the hospitals around the city – or by train to Flemington Bridge station after my family moved to Fawkner.

Electives did not exist. And of course, there was no Torquay or any school camps in those days and very few excursions. But most schools were the same.

There were not as many buildings as there are today. The site was not as attractive as it is today. The uniform was different – we wore pale blue dresses in summer, navy tunic with white shirt & college tie in winter, blazers, hats, gloves and stockings, and we wore a wrap-around pinafore every day while at school. I travelled to school as you do – by bus from Footscray – it was a white bus and we called it the hospital bus, as after

On commencing Year 9, we had to choose either an Academic course (Science or Humanities) or a Commerce course (Typing, Shorthand and Accounting at Year 11 & 12) and courses could not be mixed.

Class sizes were large – between 50 & 60 students in each and teachers taught all day – all preparation and correction was done outside of school hours. There were many Sisters on the staff. Not all staff were Sisters, however all were female. I can remember the excitement when a man joined the staff when I was in Year 11, to replace a Sister who was ill. He taught Maths, but it must have been difficult for him.

Alumni Profile

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Some subjects did not exist. Physical Education, Outdoor Education, Information Technology, Food Technology, Wood Technology, Physics, Drama, Instrumental Music and

We did have athletic sports held in Royal Park and the College had netball teams that played at the weekends.

I was in Padua House. There were lunchtime activities – I belonged to a drama group and a social justice group.

I enjoyed being at school and was never bored.

When I left school I worked in a bank. I had never thought of joining the Sisters of Mercy when I was at school, however after six months or so of working in the bank I decided that there must be more to life. I really wanted to do some work where I could make a difference and so decided that I wanted to be a teacher. Some months later I decided that I wanted to be a Sister of Mercy as well. That was a decision that I have never regretted.

Sisters of Mercy have been involved in Education in Australia for over 175 years, starting with their arrival in Perth in 1846. Eleven years later some Sisters came to Victoria and started by opening the Academy in Fitzroy, and then St Aloysius College followed in 1887 – 135 years ago. Since their arrival in 1846, Sisters of Mercy have taught in at least 540 schools across Australia.

We are all part of that amazing history.

I am very happy that I attended St Aloysius College and I hope that each member of the College community, be it as a student, parent or staff member, is very proud that they too are part of the rich history of St Aloysius College.

to St Aloysius College from next year.

Planning has been underway for four years, the announcement was made two & a half years ago, and detailed planning has been happening ever since. Now co-education is only two terms away and families in this part of Melbourne will now have the choice of co-education – a choice they have never had.

I would like to especially say to the current students of St Aloysius, that the Mercy Education Board, the College Advisory Council and the staff are aware that for the next five years, all of you as you advance to Year 12, will still be in classes with girls and will not be greatly impacted by the boys who enrol, or co-education as such.

Everyone is committed to you to make sure you receive the best education

Sylvia Williams, St Aloysius College, Year 9, 1959

Sylvia Williams (The Ghost!) and Joan Roper. St Aloysius College 1960 or 1961, Drama Group Activity

I have been a Director and Chair of the Mercy Education Board for the past six years. One of the most important decisions we made during that time is to introduce co-education Always Aloysius | Winter 2022

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possible with as many opportunities as possible. So as the College gradually changes, the long and proud history of offering an excellent education to young women will not change. You will however, be part of a special period in the history of the College as it changes from girls only to co-education.

For 30 years I was privileged to be Principal of four different schools – all those schools were co-educational.

Each school mirrored real life where women and men work together, study, socialise and make up families.

It has been my experience that by sharing classes and other school activities, young women and men learn to appreciate each other’s strengths and weaknesses. They come to realise that they are equal, but different; learn to listen to each other and to treat each other with respect.

You the students here today have all been presented with Mercy values of compassion, courage, hospitality, justice, respect and service – it is my hope for you that you carry these values with you through life, in your family situation, in whatever work you do, with your friends and with all whom you come in contact. These Mercy values do not change or become obsolete, and are just as applicable to boys as to girls.

Thank you for the invitation to be part of your celebration of 135 years and your College Feast Day. Best wishes to each person for the rest of this year and a special thank you to staff members for your commitment & efforts during the past two & a half years.

Sylvia Williams, St Aloysius School Ball, 1961

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I look forward to hearing about St Aloysius College and its students in the years ahead.

Remember the College motto “Born for Higher Things” and as on your website ‘Be curious, become brilliant’.

Alumni Profile RINA PRINZI, CLASS OF 1974

As part of the St Aloysius Day 135 Year Celebrations, students, staff and special guests were treated to a speech by teacher Rina Prinzi, who has experience life at St Aloysius as a student, teacher, and parent within our community. Rina and her two daughters, Jessica and Cassandra treated the College community to a performance of the St Aloysius College Anthem, which was written by Jeff & Joanne Neal for the Centenary in 1987 and which remained the school song until 2009. Rina, Jessica and Cassandra were accompanied by January Ma on the piano. Below, Rina shares her St Aloysius Story.

Having spent two-thirds of my life as part of the St Aloysius community, as a student, staff member and a mum; it is an honor to be part of the celebrations of the 135th anniversary of St Aloysius College.

Some may think I am ancient, but no, I wasn’t at St Al’s when it was co-Ed, however I do remember the toilets with the boys’ sign and wondering why.

I have journeyed with the sisters of Mercy through Primary, Secondary and Tertiary studies and worked in their employ for all my teaching life here at St Al’s.

My parents chose St Al’s because it went through to Year 12. Dad migrated to Australia, hoping for better opportunities. He had little schooling but was very educated in life skills, and I am grateful that he gave me the choice to go on to tertiary studies, despite the mentality of the day that

girls didn’t need an education! It was 1969, Sr Eileen Harrington was principal and there were over 1000 students! The school entrance was at Brougham St which is now Gate 5.

As a student I have many wonderful memories: In 1973 I was very excited to be part of the first musical performance in our new school hall. An original play called AMARA written by Jeff & Joanne Neal.

In the same year I was Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat! I recently received copies of the programs which put a smile on my face, not as glossy as the ones we have today but precious, nevertheless.

My last performance at the College was in the musical 1984, adapted by Jeff from the George Orwell book by the same name.

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Rina Prinzi (middle), performing with daughters Jessica (left) and Cassandra (right)

I have very fond memories of:

I have witnessed many changes:

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1970 the Science Lab Block along Brougham St was built

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1971 Sr Helen Delaney became principal

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1973 this Hall, Library (DTI Centre) and Home Economics block was built

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1974 the Admin and Office Block and a Migrant Room

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I saw Sr Helen go grey, it seemed like almost overnight, overseeing the works…. I hope the same doesn’t happen to Mary!

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While away at Teacher’s College in 1977 the Senior Classrooms were built.

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Sr Barbara waiting near the chapel door and saying “Good morning girls, now go in and say good morning to God before you go to class” Sr Dosethea, with her metre ruler checking the length of our skirts and if not touching the ground when kneeling it was off to the textiles room to let it down!!

Sr Dorothea, teaching two classes at once standing in the doorway between Rooms 20 & 21 (the new textiles room)

With the dedicated staff, especially music teacher Joanne Ryan-Neal who, recognizing my vocal talent, encouraged me and got me through HSC - High School Certificate, now VCE, 1974. I was offered a place at MICE (Mercy institute of catholic education, now ACU) & at Melba Conservatorium. Unsure of which path to take, I thank Sr Helen Delaney, my principal and mentor, for helping me decide to go into teaching and then putting her trust in me by offering me a position at St Al’s when I graduated.

And as she suggested I did follow my heart and later, graduated from the College of the Arts with an Associate Diploma in Opera and Music Theatre.

I returned to St Al’s as a staff member in 1978. Saw a change in leadership in 1980 when Sr Frances Baker took over the reins. To think my appointment at St Al’s was supposed to be a 6-month replacement position teaching Music & RE and I am still here teaching Italian, Math and RE, which remains the constant!

In my teaching years I was given the opportunity to use my gifts and talents and was involved with all the school productions from wardrobe mistress (despite not being very good with a needle & thread – Mrs. G can confirm that!) to vocal coach. I have held positions of responsibility such as Assistant REC overseeing Years 7-9, Liturgy Coordinator, Junior Music Coordinator and Choir Director. I have loved and gained much experience in each of these roles but am most at home in the classroom, seeing the girls’ faces eager to learn; it is where I hope to impart knowledge and challenge each of the students in my care, to be the best they can possibly be, not just academically but also as future citizens.

St Al’s has been part of the highs and lows in my life. When I tried to resign in 1987 Sr Francis asked me why. I explained that mum’s Alzheimer’s was taking its toll on dad and me; she gave me leave on compassionate grounds but not before I assured her I would not leave before the Centenary Celebration, June of that year. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world!

It was one of the highlights in my professional life to be Cantor and Congregational Conductor at the Cathedral and then to perform on the

Hamer Hall stage accompanied by two of the music teachers. Sr Frances said, she would accept my resignation after my leave, if that was what I wanted.

During my leave, Dad and I took mum to Italy for a final visit with family and I met Piero who is now my husband.

Needless to say, I withdrew my resignation!

St Al’s has seen me through mum & dad’s passing, my wedding, and the birth of three children.

My daughters Jessica & Cassandra, also proudly attended St Al’s. Jessica, my eldest, wasn’t sure what she wanted to do. She was offered places at other schools but chose St Al’s because it offered both academic & performing arts possibilities. Jessica graduated in 2008 and as it is she took on both pathways graduating from Melbourne Uni with a Bachelor of Science and then completing a Bachelor Musical Theatre in Ballarat!

Cassandra said, “if it’s good enough for Jess, it will be good enough for me!”

The only thing she wasn’t thrilled about was the size of her uniform, stating, at the end of VCE “hey ma, I’m still waiting to grow into it” and of course she wasn’t allowed to leave the house without her blazer and, no rolling up her skirt! Well, I did say they could come to St Al’s so long as they didn’t embarrass me; what a mean mum!

Cassandra went on to be College Co-Captain in 2013 and graduated from RMIT with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (honors) She has set up her own studio, making Contemporary Jewelry as well as continuing with her singing.

Both girls have inherited my love for music and singing and participated in all the school productions. Jess’ best part was playing Miss Hannigan in Annie; she was such a good drunk it had me worried! Cassandra’s highlight was playing Maria in the Sound of Music. Both productions were under the direction of Andrew Dalhunty & January Ma. They were also part of the choir and some of the sports teams. St Al’s enabled them to choose the path that was right for them and contributed to the success they are experiencing today. I thank God …. and I am very proud of both.

My third child Max would come down from St Michael’s and wait for me after school. He thoroughly enjoyed being the centre of attention with the girls.

He was very disappointed and couldn’t understand why he couldn’t come here, even though I explained, it was an all-girls school! … well things are changing, and I am excited to be part of this historic moment.

I have made lasting friendships with colleagues from our sister school in Milan. I was delighted to be involved in establishing a Memorandum of Understanding and, of course, taking our students over to experience the Italian culture and language firsthand.

I have been nurtured and guided, by five very diverse principals Sr Helen, Sr Frances, Sr Joan, John Davidson, and Mary Farah, each who have continued to live the Mercy values of Compassion, Always Aloysius | Winter 2022

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Respect, Hospitality, Courage, Service and Justice despite the many changes of class sizes, building constructions and education curriculums. The essence of care to guide our students to be the best they can possibly be, has never wavered. This is also thanks to the dedicated staff I have worked with over the years and with whom I continue to work.

I have taught some mums and aunts, of our current students! I have been elated when at reunions, they recall

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the fond memories of our lessons and express their joy at knowing I am teaching their daughters. Others have said “Mrs. Prinzi, whatever you did with our first daughter, do with this one!”. Plus a card that I received from a student on International Teacher’s Day which said, “Technology has made it easier for students to learn with devices new, but nothing can come close to the experience of being taught by an inspirational teacher like you. Thank you”

These are the things that lift my spirits and give me the strength and drive to keep on teaching in the hope of continuing to inspire my students. And as the saying goes “Once a St Al’s girls always a St Al’s girl!”

UPCOMING REUNION DATES: Combined 10 Year Reunion: Classes of 2010, 2011 and 2012: Former students joined by staff at the combined one year reunion

Class of 2019, 2020 & 2021 Reunion On Friday, 17th June, St Aloysius staff were delighted to welcome back to the College students from the Classes of 2019, 2020 and 2021 for their combined one year reunion.

It was a special opportunity to connect and reflect on the last couple of years, and the teachers in attendance

were delighted to hear updates from the former students who came. The evening included a tour of new facilities and gave everyone an opportunity to eat, drink and peruse old photos and memorabilia.

Thursday, 15th September at 6:30pm Booking Link: www. trybooking. com/BZUWA

Combined 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 Year Reunions: Celebrating 135 Years: Wednesday, 10th August at 4:00pm 2000, 2001 and 2002 1990, 1991 and 1992 1980, 1981 and 1982 1970, 1971 and 1972 1960, 1961 and 1962 1950, 1951 and 1952 Booking Link: www. trybooking. com/CARFR

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New Staff Welcome SHARINE BAYOUN Thank you to the staff and students who have kindly welcomed me into the school community this year. I am very pleased to have joined the English teaching team as the Head of English, and look forward to contributing to the learning and development of the students at St Aloysius.

Since arriving at the College, I have been fortunate enough to have engaged in rich classroom discussion with students about novels, poetry and film.

Listening to the insights of young people about texts is what I enjoy most about teaching English. Throughout my teaching career, I have always aimed to adopt best practice in effective literacy instruction and had the opportunity to develop my skills through my position as Literacy Coordinator at my previous school.

As a past student of a Mercy school, I identify with the Mercy traditions of justice, courage and service. I am passionate about social justice and believe in each individual’s obligation to impact positive social change. I feel strongly about welcoming refugees and asylum seekers into our community. Over the last five years, I have created invaluable friendships with asylum seekers who are detained at Melbourne Immigration Transit Accommodation which has strengthened my resolve to advocate for the rights of refugees.

I hope that through my work at St Aloysius, I can encourage students to become curious learners with an appreciation for literature and the world around them.

JODIE LAUBE I am the new College Nurse, I come to the College from the Royal Children’s Hospital Emergency Department. I come with an 8-year background in emergency nursing completing Graduate Diploma of Nursing Science (Emergency) and recently completed Master of Advanced Nursing Practice. Working in emergency departments I have met and cared for people from all walks of life and all ages.

Whilst also caring for patients in my care I was involved in educating and supporting graduate and student nurses at the beginnings of their careers. Understanding the importance of education and supporting people in making informed decisions is very important to me. I endeavor to explain a condition or diagnosis in the simplest way. Working through the COVID-19 pandemic reinforced the need for a change and want to spend more time with my young family.

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MATEJA TELICH My name is Mateja and I am the new receptionist at St Aloysius College.

My background is in Early childhood and Family Services. I have worked in both areas for the past 20 years and have worked with many families within the North Melbourne Community.

I enjoy spending time with my family, especially my two young children and husband. I also enjoy bush walking, tending to my garden and chickens, and being involved in my local community in Flowerdale.

CONNIE TSIRONIS Hi, my name is Connie, and I am so thrilled to be a part of the St Aloysius community. I am the new Admission Officer and I look forward to meeting you and seeing you around the school campus. I’ve come from an administrative background and enjoy working in an environment that makes a difference, especially to our young people. Outside of work, I have two adult children who are studying and now that the kids are older my husband and I love getting away. We try to get away on weekends, even if it’s for a hike just outside of Melbourne.

We love getting in our car and driving to take in the fresh air. Movie nights is another thing we love, and we usually try and do this with our kids. It’s always a battle to try and pick the right movie but I wouldn’t change a thing.

EMMA TURNER My Name is Emma Turner and I’m a graduate teacher at St. Aloysius in 2022. I am passionate about teaching Health, Physical Education and Science at the College. My previous Bachelor Degree in Health Science, certificate in Personal Training and my current Secondary Education degree has positively shaped my teaching pedagogy. I strive to increase physical activity participation levels and enhance students’ understanding of health and well-being. I worked in a hospital as an Environmental Services and Food Services Assistant for 5 years before commencing work at St. Aloysius. My interests include undertaking training at a High-Performance Centre for athlete development and playing AFL in the VAFA league (Premier Division). I was instantly drawn in by the College’s approach to learning, in particular embodying the Mercy values and co-education in 2023.

CAROLINE WAREHAM Thank you for the very warm welcome I have received at St Aloysius.

It is my pleasure to be part of a team who share my passionate approach to education and have such extensive knowledge of the Visual Arts. As part of a long-held family tradition, I have shared a profound interest in the arts with both my mother (who specialised in Russian Iconography) and mother-in-law who was a renowned toymaker represented in collections such as the V&A museum.

In addition to my interest in the arts, I hold a firm belief that education is now, more than ever, a global concern and needs to be viewed through that lens. Students must have a well-rounded and balanced approach to all subjects to succeed. My time away from the classroom is time spent exercising and with family and friends.

Environmental interests are close to my heart. I see inner-city and higher density living as a positive challenge and keenly pursue the cultivation of edible gardens in tiny spaces.

CYNNE YANG Born in Canberra and raised in Hangzhou (China), I had the rare opportunity to experience both Western and Eastern education and seeing the difference firsthand in subject like Mathematics.

Aiming to combine the conceptual understanding with creative thinking in this subject I adore, my first and foremost interest as a Maths teacher is to help students setting up a growth mindset. I often say, ‘you need to be in it to win it’, a good academic result comes from good understanding, hard work and most importantly positive engagement.

St Aloysius and its Mercy value echo closely in my heart, especially after recently becoming a mother to a little girl. In spare times, I will find myself buried under my daughter’s toys and crayons or taking a refreshing walk with Choco my chocolate Labrador.

Wherever possible, I model behaviour such as riding to work and avoiding single-use plastics. I value learning and keenly embrace change.

It is an honour to fulfil the needs of St Aloysius and I look forward to being an active contributor to the process of encouraging confident, well-rounded young men to take their place in the community.

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St Aloysius College

YEAR 7 2024 CO-EDUCATION Now Enrolling

Key Dates

ENROLMENT PROCESS

Enrolment Applications close Friday, 19th August 2022

1 Attend Campus Tour Book via College website

Offers sent Friday, 21st October 2022

2 Submit Online Application See College website for details

Offer Acceptance Deadline Friday, 11th November 2022

3 Final Steps Interview, offer and acceptance process

Limited places remain for Year 8-12 all-girls enrolment to St Aloysius College. If this is of interest, we encourage you to contact the College Registrar at registrar@aloysius.vic.edu.au or 9325 9200 as soon as possible.

Book your Tour today

ST ALOYSIUS COLLEGE 31 Curran Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051 P

03 9325 9200

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principal@aloysius.vic.edu.au

www.aloysius.vic.edu.au