Always Aloysius
SUMMER 2024 ST ALOYSIUS
A Journey of Excellence
The Year 7 2027 enrolment deadline is on Friday, 15th August 2025 Enquiries and tour bookings can be made by contacting the College registrar at registrar@aloysius.vic.edu.au or 03 9325 9200 .
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.
PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME
MARY FARAH, PRINCIPAL
As we conclude 2024, it’s my great pleasure to welcome you to this summer edition of Always Aloysius. This year has been particularly inspiring, with all year levels on campus, a full slate of in-person events, and a renewed sense of purpose as we step boldly into the next chapter of St Aloysius College’s story. I am, as always, incredibly proud of our students, staff, and families, whose shared commitment and resilience have continued to shape our community in profound ways.
The past year marked the official commencement of Stage One of the Master Plan on our gym site, Boundary Road, a forward-looking vision to guide us into the future. This plan is more than just a blueprint—it is an expression of our dedication to providing inclusive, innovative, and inspiring spaces for every student. This development is an exciting step toward the future, one that honours the rich heritage of St Aloysius while embracing the evolving needs of our students.
The second half of 2024 has seen a
blend of cherished traditions and new experiences. Our Year 12 students, who have led with grace and resilience, are concluding their journey with us. As they cross this milestone, having navigated the joys and challenges of their final year, we know they are well-prepared to make their mark on the world. Their achievements, along with the unwavering support of their families, are a testament to the strength of our community, and we look forward to celebrating their successes for years to come.
Alongside the excitement of progress, this year also brings a moment to reflect on the contributions of dedicated staff who will be departing St Aloysius. After an extraordinary 39 years of service in Catholic Mercy education, Brian Brooks retires this year, leaving a profound legacy - we are grateful for his years of service.
We also bid farewell to Michael Chesser and Mary DeBono, who have each dedicated 10 years to St Aloysius. Their commitment and dedication to our community have
been invaluable, and their impact will be felt for years to come.
On behalf of the entire St Aloysius family, we wish Brian, Michael, and Mary all the best as they embark on the next chapters of their lives.
I hope you enjoy this edition of Always Aloysius, which celebrates a year of achievement and highlights the wonderful contributions of so many in our community. May you and your loved ones have a peaceful Christmas and a very safe and joyful New Year.
BREAKING GROUND ON BOUNDARY ROAD
St Aloysius College has embarked on an exciting new chapter with the commencement of construction of its Senior Years Campus on Boundary Road. This landmark development, forming Stage One of the College Masterplan, reflects the College’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional, future-focused education in state-of-the-art facilities.
On Friday 15th November, the College community gathered to celebrate the turning of the sod at the site of the current Boundary Road Gymnasium—a symbolic moment marking the commencement of works on this purpose-built, multi-level campus. With completion targeted for the 2026 school year, this milestone represents the culmination of years of planning and dedication, bringing the vision for our students' futures to life.
BUILDING ON STRONG FOUNDATIONS
This transformative project has been made possible through the generous support of the Victorian Government’s School Building Authority, which provided a $6 million grant, along with contributions from the Victorian Catholic Education Authority, Catholic Capital Grant Victoria, and Mercy Education. The project partners, including builders
Building Engineering, architects Hayball and project managers SEMZ, have collaborated closely with the College to ensure the design aligns with our mission and values.
A VISION FOR LEARNING
The Senior Years Campus has been designed to meet the evolving demands of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), offering an inspiring environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and holistic development. Spanning six levels and a single-level basement, the facility will feature:
• A welcoming foyer and reception area
• Collaborative learning and event spaces
• A vibrant student hub for social and academic engagement
• General learning areas and flexible spaces to cater to diverse educational needsState-of-theart science classrooms equipped for hands-on exploration
• Dedicated administration and staff areas to support a thriving academic community
• A rooftop terrace, providing outdoor learning and recreational opportunities
The development also includes landscaping to enhance the campus atmosphere and improved roadway connections for seamless access.
A JOURNEY OF GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITY
The redevelopment of the Senior Years Campus is a bold step forward in the College’s history, ensuring that future generations of students have access to an inspiring and dynamic learning environment. The sod-turning ceremony served as a reminder of the strength of our foundations and our shared commitment to building a thriving future.
As we look ahead, the College community can look forward to regular updates and milestones throughout the construction journey. Together, we are creating a legacy that not only meets the academic needs of today but also anticipates the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
COLLEGE MUSICAL
SCHOOL MUSICAL ON STAGE
St Aloysius community, we were counting on you to join us in celebrating our College’s 2024 production of High School Musical On Stage!—and you did not disappoint.
As director, I would like to acknowledge the importance of musical theatre as a collective process, involving not only those directly but also indirectly engaged. I am deeply appreciative of my personal and professional network of supporters, who empower me each year to take on this creative and demanding journey, while also inspiring and encouraging me along the way. This musical would
not have been possible without the support of the incredibly talented, passionate, and dedicated creative team who joined me on this journey— thank you to each and every one of you!
Throughout this process, I experienced immense joy working with the cast and crew. I thank them all for the creativity, enthusiasm, energy, and time they gave so selflessly. It was gratifying to see them work so well together, all with the aim of bringing you a show they can be proud of. These students are a credit to St Aloysius College, their families, and themselves
High School Musical On Stage! is a celebration of friendship, individuality, and breaking free from societal expectations. It centres on the blossoming relationship between Troy, a high school jock, and Gabriella, the new smart girl at school. Their unexpected decision to audition together for the school show was thwarted by the school’s reigning leading lady, Sharpay, as well as by Troy and Gabriella’s well-meaning friends. The story unfolds as the Brainiacs, Thespians, Jocks, and Skaters begin to revolt against the "Status Quo"
HIGH
St Aloysius' performance of HSM On Stage! was full of exciting dance routines and memorable songs. A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful community who attended our production and were truly ‘all in this together’ to help celebrate and support our amazing St Aloysius students as they brought this colourful, energetic, and timeless production to the stage.
Go St Aloysius College!
NADIA LA VELLE PERFORMING ARTS LEADER
ALUMNI PROFILE
ELLEN ZHANG CLASS OF 2014
We were thrilled to reconnect with Ellen Zhang, a proud member of the Class of 2014, at herten-year reunion earlier this year. Since graduating, Ellen has carved out an impressive career as both an optometrist and a university lecturer at Deakin University, exemplifying the values of curiosity and determination that St Aloysius College fosters. In the following Q&A, Ellen shares insights into her journey, from her unexpected pathway into optometry to her fondest school memories, and offers heartfelt advice for current students navigating their own futures.
WHAT STUDY AND WORK DID YOU UNDERTAKE AFTER YOU FINISHED YEAR 12, AND WHERE ARE YOU NOW?
I wanted to either become an optometrist or a science high school teacher. I initially didn't have an ATAR to get into optometry, so I studied a double degree Bachelor of Science/ Bachelor of Teaching (secondary), I
ended up transferring into optometry after my first year of uni. I have since graduated as an optometrist and have been working as one since 2019. I am also working at Deakin University as a Lecturer in Optometric Clinical Skills.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WANTING TO TAKE YOUR STUDY AND CAREER PATH?
I would say attend the open days at the university and speak to your local optometrist that you get eye tests from. There are many different optometry courses in Australia, you might prefer going to a specific uni for the facilities they provide over another.
WHAT SKILLS HAVE YOU LEARNED ACROSS YOUR LIFE SO FAR, AND WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU’VE OVERCOME?
I think the biggest challenge in life is learning to back yourself and be confident in what you're doing. Throughout high school, there is a great network supporting you, however when you leave high school and university, it's where you have to practice independence. That always takes time to develop, where you grow and learn from your multiple mistakes.
HOW DO YOU RECALL YOUR TIME AT ST ALOYSIUS? WHAT IS YOUR FONDEST MEMORY?
I have fond memories from St Aloysius, it was always such a small, close-knit community. As you get into the older years, you become closer to your teachers, my VCE classes with my science teachers or Vis Comm classes, doing the subjects that I enjoyed with teachers that were passionate about what they were doing were the best. Fondest memories would have to some of the VCE experiments run in Physics with Mr Dulhunty or Chemistry after lunch with Ms Daunt, especially when food was involved. I have to say, the physics class with the Rubens flame tube, learning about resonance, and roasting marshmallows in the dark still lingers with me all these years later.
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO FOLLOW THE CAREER PATH YOU HAVE CHOSEN?
I have always been interested in helping others, whether it is through teaching or through health. I have always been inspired by the great teachers I had along the way, especially in high school, they were always encouraging and provided me the confidence to keep learning and
exploring. They were one of the main reasons I wanted to also be a teacher, to help encourage the future generations to also be self inquisitive and lifelong learners. I chose optometry as it is a health pathway I have always been interested in, there's something about eyes that I just find more interesting than any other organ in the body.
WHAT ARE YOUR CAREER ASPIRATIONS ON THE COMING YEARS? ANY EXCITING NEW PROJECTS TO SHARE WITH US?
I'm currently very happy in my roles and career at this stage. The next exciting project would to be expand the current optometry business I run into a larger store and hire some more staff and optometrists.
IF YOU COULD GIVE YOUR HIGH SCHOOL SELF SOME WORDS OF ADVICE, WHAT WOULD THEY BE? I would say not to stress so much about the perfect ATAR and figuring out the perfect job in high school. If it is meant to be, you'll work towards it in the end, it doesn't always have to be a straight path. Sometimes it takes a bit of time to figure out what you really want to do in life and that's ok, we have our entire lives ahead of us.
STAY CONNECTED
ALUMNI PLATFORM LAUNCH
The St Aloysius Alumni Platform is here! This new platform has been created to strengthen the ties within our alumni community and to ensure that everyone stays connected to the life and spirit of St Aloysius College.
It’s a space for sharing stories, celebrating achievements, and reliving cherished memories. Alumni can browse through photos, update contact details, and reconnect with classmates. It’s also a place to stay in touch with the College through updates, news, and invitations to upcoming events and reunions.
The platform makes it easy for alumni to contribute to the shared history of St Aloysius. Whether by sharing photos from school days, professional updates, or personal milestones, this is a way for everyone to celebrate what makes this community special.
Signing up is simple, and once logged in, alumni are encouraged to review their details to help keep the connections strong. By embracing this platform, the alumni community will continue to grow, evolve, and thrive together.
Visit aloysius.alumnly.com to join and explore this exciting new chapter.
We are excited to continue to celebrate the unique bond of the St Aloysius alumni network and look forward to everything the future holds.
CELEBRATION EVENING
REFLECTING ON 2024
On Monday, 25th November, the St Aloysius College community came together for the much-anticipated Celebration Evening, held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC). Returning to this iconic venue for the first time since the pandemic, the evening marked a significant milestone – the opportunity to gather as an entire school community under one roof to reflect on and celebrate a year of achievement, growth, and connection.
The heart of the evening lay in celebrating the extraordinary achievements of the students. From academic excellence to co-curricular accomplishments and sporting success, the breadth of talent and dedication within the College was on full display. Awards were presented to students
who had excelled, recognising their hard work, determination, and contributions to the school community.
Throughout the evening, the audience was treated to a series of beautiful performances that added to the celebratory atmosphere. The College Choir, Aloysius A Cappella, School Band, Voice Choir, and soloist Lila Kelly delivered stirring renditions that showcased the vibrancy and creativity nurtured at St Aloysius. These performances provided moments of reflection and inspiration, highlighting the artistic talents that thrive within the College.
The evening shone a spotlight on student voice, with the delivery of a powerful speech by Fadzai Bako, winner of the ACS Intermediate Public Speaking Competition.
The event also honoured the dedication of the College’s staff. Long-serving team members were recognised for their years of service, celebrating their commitment to fostering excellence and growth at St Aloysius.
We extend a huge thanks to all staff members from both St Aloysius College and MCEC for their outstanding support in coordinating and hosting the evening.
The Celebration Evening was not only a time to reflect on the achievements of 2024 but also an opportunity to look ahead with optimism. The event embodied the spirit of St Aloysius College – a community that cherishes its shared successes and continues to strive for excellence in all its endeavours.
STAFF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Celebration Evening afforded us the opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of staff members who have given more than ten years of service to the College, as well as farewelling Brian Brooks, Mary De Bono and Michael Chesser.
Back Row: Minh Nguyen (27 Years), Theresa Daunt (22 Years ), Siobhan Bloomfield (11 Years), Rachel Valentine (10 Years), Chris Georgiou (24 Years), January Ma (21 Years), Michael Chesser (10 Years), Kim-Sue Hendry (35 Years)
Seated: Chloe Cornell (11 Years), Audrey Abelardo (36 Years), Pina McCallum (15 Years), Mary De Bono (10 Years), Antoinette Martelli (12 Years)
Not Pictured: Rosa Martic (10 Years), Brian Brooks (40 Years), Maria Cunnington (30 Years), Marita Pattison (18 Years)
As I finish my final year of schooling at St Aloysius I am able to reflect on the many memories that I have shared and created at the College. I am extremely thankful for the support and guidance that the teachers have provided not only me but also for my cohort. Our teachers' vast knowledge, wisdom and experiences have been extremely valuable, and have truly helped in setting us all up for a successful future. I thank them for everything they have provided us and offered for us, that has helped in promoting mine and my cohorts ability to grow into strong individuals.
I look forward to becoming an alumni of St Aloysius College, as it is through this that I will be able to stay in touch with the Class of 2024, learning about the unique journeys that each of us choose to embark upon. Becoming an alumni will enable me to be able to continue to cherish the time that I have spent at St Aloysius College, reminiscing on the adventures the College has taken me on, and reflecting on the fun times shared within the year level.
ABBEY LUKE 2024 COLLEGE COCAPTAIN AND VALEDICTORIAN
