Always Aloysius - Summer 2023

Always Aloysius ST ALOYSIUS

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Life is Co-Ed and So Are We

Enrolment St Aloysius College invites enrolment applications for 2026 and beyond.

The Year 7 2026 enrolment application deadline is August 16, 2024.

Applications can be submitted via the College website. Should you have any further queries, please contact the College Registrar at registrar@aloysius.vic.edu.au or (03) 9325 9200.

Contents From the Principal............................ 2 2023 College Co-Captains............... 4 Year 12 2023 Valedictory.................. 6 Year 12 2023 Results......................... 8 A Journey of Mercy........................ 10

Article Submissions Do you have any stories or reflections from your time at St Aloysius, or exciting achievements since, that you wish to share with the College community?

We would love to hear from you! Please email alumni@aloysius.vic.edu.au and we will be in touch.

Alumni Stories................................. 12 Year 7 Reflections............................ 14 Community Connect...................... 17 Mercy Day....................................... 18 College Musical.............................. 20 Student Achievements................... 22 Q&A................................................. 22

Alumni Updates

Scan the QR code to send us an update or visit the Alumi section on the website aloysius.vic.edu.au to let us know.

Stay in touch

Art & Technology Exibition............ 24 Father’s Day Breakfast.................... 25 Staff Welcomes............................... 26 Farewelling the Class of 2023........ 27

Need to updated your details? Scan the QR code or visit aloysius.vic.edu.au to update your details.

Always Aloysius | Summer 2023

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Co-education is yet another chapter in our St Aloysius story, a story of growth and success, where every change brings challenges but also strengthens and grows our community, making ready for the chapters yet to be written.

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Principal’s Welcome MARY FARAH, PRINCIPAL Welcome to the Summer edition of Always Aloysius.

This publication showcases the events and triumphs that have defined the second semester, all under the guiding light of our 2023 College theme, “We should be shining lamps, giving light to all around us”.

As you flick through these pages, whether in print or digitally, many of you will embark upon a journey of nostalgia. Each story read, each image viewed, and each achievement seen will no doubt serve as a warm reminder of your days at St Aloysius College - the classrooms, the life-long friendships, and the experiences that have collectively shaped each of us into the individuals we are today. The shared experiences of our alma mater continue to inspire and shape our lives, creating a perpetual sense of camaraderie and belonging, and that is what makes Always Aloysius such a very special publication.

Within this edition, we feature some remarkable achievements of our students in sports, not only highlighting their dedication and prowess on the field but revealing the high

standards of coaching across a range of disciplines from rowing to football and everything else in between. This edition also recognises and celebrates the alumnae of the class of 2023, who, as I write, are sitting their final examinations. As we bid farewell to this cohort and wish them all the very best in their future endeavours, we also express our deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff who have played a pivotal role in supporting and guiding these students throughout their journey at Aloysius College. The contributions of countless staff from Year 7 onwards have been invaluable, and we appreciate the transformative impact they have all had on the education of life journey of the Class of 2023.

centre of learning with state-of-the-art facilities.

Please enjoy reading Always Aloysius, it means so much to us that our community is invited to celebrate with us the great successes of 2023, and this publication goes some way to acknowledging the wonderful achievements of our students, bidding farewell to our graduating class, and expressing gratitude to all staff, in particular those who will be leaving us at year’s end. Here’s to the incredible journey that is 2023, a year certainly worth celebrating and cherishing.

Schools though, are never static, and as one chapter closes another commences. We are certainly planning for the future and therefore we are excited to announce that the Master Plan Stage One is set to commence early in 2024, with the development of the Senior Years campus. This exciting expansion aligns with our commitment to fostering growth in line with our increasing student numbers, ensuring that Aloysius College remains a vibrant

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From the 2023 College Co-Captains CELESTE BARRAVECCHIO I cannot believe that we have come to the end of 2023, and ultimately the end of my high school education.

I remember my first time walking through the school gates in 2018 as a little Year 7, excited but a little bit nervous about the journey I was about to embark on.

I was so excited to make new friends and experience my first high school camp, first St Aloysius Day and Mercy Day. I am so grateful for all of the experiences and moments that I have had during the last six years of my life at St Aloysius College. I’m so grateful for all the friendships I’ve made and all the teachers who have not only taught me, but have also guided and influenced me in becoming the person I am today.

I’m so glad that I had the privilege to be one of the 2023 College CoCaptains. It has been one of the most rewarding opportunities in my life. Not only have I learnt so much but I have also grown as a person during my time at the College. I am truly thankful for everyone who has been by my side from Year 7 to Year 12; from my cohort, teachers and all staff at the College for supporting and guiding me.

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When I applied to be a prefect, I knew I had the fundamental skills of being a leader as I was a House and Class Captain from Year 8-11. I was so happy when I was appointed 2023 CoCaptain. It was the highlight of my year.

Even though I was feeling extremely nervous to fulfil the responsibilities and expectations of previous Co-Captains, I took on the challenge and couldn’t be happier. Connecting with the Prefect group we became a team, I became more confident in my role and this enabled me to be determined to do my best for the College community.

With my background in sport, in particular playing basketball which is a very team-oriented sport, teamwork is the key. Basketball skills need practice, encouragement and persistence. You must learn how to push yourself and lead your team to allow them to have confidence not only in you, but in themselves as well. In my experience you must learn to have a positive mindset through difficulties and where you have put yourself in uncomfortable situations. I have learnt that being a leader isn’t about having the badge or being popular, it’s about providing a safe environment where everyone feels welcomed, wanted, included, supported, involved and heard.

As this year was the first year of co-education, the Prefect Team collaborated and communicated new

ideas to become more inclusive. We introduced activities such as House Sports at lunchtime, which allowed more participation within the school community. We hope that incoming prefects continue this new tradition of embracing inclusivity until St Aloysius is fully co-educational in 2028. St Aloysius Day was our big event of the year, trying to determine which activities would suit our theme of Throwback.

The prefects did an outstanding job working together with all the different ideas we had in previous years to embrace a theme that was gender inclusive. We were very lucky to make special memories that the cohort will remember, including our Year 12 Retreat and Formal in February. These memories will always hold a special place in my heart. Throughout the times in the year when we had our challenging moments like having multiple assessments, reliving those memories and looking back at photos always put me back into a positive mindset.

Ultimately as I reflect over the past year, my role as College Co-Captain has been extremely important and special to me and I couldn’t have done it without the Prefect Team and staff. I am so grateful to be a student at St Aloysius College, it will stick with me forever.

Carry St Aloysius in your heart!

CHLOE COLLIN Looking back at my time at St Aloysius, I genuinely can’t believe how fast it has gone.

It’s always been an environment filled with a fantastic culture, with me knowing I was always supported within it. I have been lucky enough to spend the last six years meeting amazing people and making incredible friends and having the opportunity to be taught by some amazing teachers.

Year 7 Chloe would be beside herself that she got the opportunity to be a part of the Prefect Team, and lead the school by being one of the College Co-captains this year. Becoming a leader within this school was always something I wanted to achieve but I still can’t believe I got the opportunity to actually do it! From Years 7-11 I always valued and looked up to the Prefect Team and admired the work they did for the school within their role. It’s not until this year where I have been lucky enough to experience it where I can say it’s truly rewarding and something I will forever be grateful for.

Although Year 12 has been an incredibly busy and demanding year for everyone involved, the Prefect Team of 2023

has been a group that has come together to work on new ideas and complete projects to better the school environment and culture. Coming with a little bit of extra time and work has managed to bring this Prefect Team of 12 people together, something which I am so thankful for. Within this group I have not only learnt to voice ideas, but I have also learnt the importance of communicating within a leadership group, as we are all striving to achieve a goal.

The opportunity of being College CoCaptain for me has taught me a handful of lessons which as I reflect on this year, I am so grateful for. It wasn’t until this year after being presented with this role that I would ever imagine myself doing things like speaking in front of the school. This however only being something small that has come with my role has allowed me to learn and grow as a person.

The opportunity to push and better myself in this role is something I will take with me and use for the rest of my life. Getting to experience working with this group in the school is something I am so proud of, as collectively we worked so well together amongst the pressures and struggles of Year 12, allowing us to fulfill our individual leadership roles.

This year the Prefect Team has been able to take on the new challenges as the school welcomed the co-ed community. Through this we were able to welcome a whole new cohort into the St Aloysius traditions. As a group we were able to organise a fun and exciting St Aloysius Day which

we are all proud of as so much work went into it. We were able to connect with the school community by setting up new things like lunchtime House Competitions and encouraging the House groups to help organise a productive Mercy day with the goal of helping others through fundraising.

All of these things which we so passionately worked on throughout this year have the aim of bettering the school spirit and culture.

St Aloysius has given me opportunities throughout the years to develop as a person, both with leadership and individually. I have been surrounded by role models and the Mercy values that are the core of this school, which have helped me become the person I am today. I know in the future things I have learnt here at St Aloysius both academically, personally and socially will be traits that will stick with me and guide me though the next chapter of my life.

I am so thankful for experiencing this school community and again not only having this leadership experience but also meeting some amazing people along the way. It’s truly been a blessing experiencing high school here and leaving with some great memories.

Although being sad leaving this community, I know it will always be something that’s a part of me. Thank you so much St Aloysius! Even though our school has entered a new chapter becoming co-ed, from Year 7 to now I am so lucky to say, Once a Mercy Girl, always a Mercy Girl!

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Year 12 Valedictory CHARLOTTE NELSON, 2023 COLLEGE VALEDICTORIAN Good evening to all guests, staff, family members and friends gathered tonight, and of course the graduating Year 12 class of 2023. I want to start by thanking you all for the opportunity to write and deliver this speech to represent our amazing cohort as your Valedictorian.

To give a brief history of our year level, in 2018 we entered St Aloysius with blazers too big, and our worlds too small, with minds brimming with both apprehension and excitement. We made it through the wonderful concept we love to call ‘icebreaker’ activities to get to know each other, and suddenly we were being shipped off to Year 7 camp where we were surfing with our 6

peers who were clearly just as nervous as each other. Here, relationships started to be built, which have become friendships that have been strengthened over our time here at the College. Returning from Torquay, we arrived back at the College thoroughly worn out but with new friendships that lasted through the entirety of our junior years.

Transitioning into Year 9 in 2020, with the announcements of sudden lockdowns, our year level faced the unknown anxieties and shock now associated with the Covid Pandemic.

I don’t think we will ever forget Ms Valentine’s voice being projected through the entire school, politely

informing us to take our belongings for an unknown period of time to continue our schooling at home. The experience of snap lockdowns was indeed a challenge that we rose to as a year level and as a school. Our perseverance both socially and academically was highlighted and our strong connections to each other and our teachers were evident. Then in 2022, we made a welcome return to the College in Year 11 as restrictions eased and we finally made our way into VCE. Finally, the day had come, we began Year 12. All of a sudden, what we may have thought was a lifetime away in Year 7 had arrived. In we walked, with blazers on and much less small, ready to become leaders for our community and the College. Milestones we had looked forward to for years were upon us, like the Year 12 Retreat and Formal which I know I speak on behalf of many students who dedicated hours into researching and shopping for formal outfits. To summarise our Year 12 Retreat, Ms Donato famously said “Shakespeare is Shakespeare like Madonna is Madonna.” Of course this made the cohort erupt in laughter for all of 10 minutes and somehow, this was the perfect start to our final year at the college.

Moments like these were valued more than ever before. We all appreciated Mr Valladares’ quick wit and legendary one liners that perfectly summed up the essential themes in ‘Pride and Prejudice’ - “Darcy be rich yo … Don’t put that in an essay.” I would personally like to thank Mr Valladares for continuing his efforts throughout the

year to make us laugh, even through the hours spent studying the novel.

The year level was flying through the year now, and with the infamous Term 3 of Year 12 upon us, work was piling on our desks and stress was even more evident. Long gone were the bubbly, excited study sessions of Term 1 or mornings hanging out in the Common Room. Now, only headphones were seen and alongside faces that clearly communicated: “Don’t talk to me. I have three SACs today”. Speaking personally and on behalf of many Year 12s that completed extended folio tasks this year, Term 3 consisted of many hours staying behind at school, many late nights and all the more obviously, many tears shed. Thank you to all teachers of these subjects, our peers and our parents and carers for supporting us through this.

I also wish to extend a big thank you to our family and friends for the support shown though the many tears and angry outbursts. (I’m sure you’re all aware schoolwork was the cause of many of them).

Finally, on a departing note to all Year 12s here tonight, as we head into our final exams I’ll leave us with Mr Valladares’ most iconic words of advice; “Don’t be mid. Be fire!”

Ad Altiora

To conclude, the memories we have made this year, both positive and slightly stressful, will be remembered for years to come after graduating.

Thank you to Ms Franze who has seen us through our journey from our Year 7 years through to our Year 12 RE teacher. Our Year 12 Pastoral leaders Mr Valladares, Ms Lonsdale and Mr Smith, as well as Ms Bloomfield who worked so closely with Year 12 Prefects throughout the year. Lastly, to the Year 12 teachers that have transitioned so easily into the College, including our Senior Years Leader, Mr Crowle and our Deputy Principal Ms Valentine and our Principal Ms Farah. All of your contributions to our education will impact us long after our graduation at St Aloysius.

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Congratulations to the Class of 2023 20% of students average ATAR of 91.63 40+

Study Scores Achieved in

Biology, English, Food Studies, History: Revolutions, Literature, General Mathematics, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, Media, Physical Education, Psychology, Visual Communication Design

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50% of students average ATAR of 82.91

Top

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Median Study Score

100% completion rate was achieved in VET and VCE VM

Congratulations to 2023 College Dux

Congratulations to the following students who achieved an ATAR above 90

Anika Elliot

Estelle Abis

Freya Taylor

96.75

90.5

Meera Melville

Elmear O’Gara

93.25

91.6

98.3 Subjects Completed: Biology, English, Japanese, Mathematical Methods, Physics, Specilist Mathematics

Anna Maria D’Onghia

93

Ana Milazzi

91.15

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Alumni Stories

A Journey of Mercy ANGELA SCARAFILO, YOUNG MERCY LINKS VICTORIA COORDINATOR What year did you graduate?

2002 What study and work did you undertake after you finished Year 12?

Worked in retail and hospitality as I completed my double degree in Arts and Education.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to take your study and career path?

Do something that makes you happy so it doesn’t feel like work. Do something that incorporates your passions and ultimately gives you purpose and enables you to be really present.

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What influenced your choice of career and your connection to Mercy?

I have always loved the Mercy charism as it requires action: Mercy is after all a verb, and I have taken this with me through out my life. My schooling in the Mercy charism sent me down a path where I hoped to walk alongside others. I am fortunate enough to work with young people whose passion and sense of justice reflect my own.

It is amazing helping them to harness this and give them a platform and community to act this out. In both my teaching and coordinating positions, helping to form young leaders ensures the Mercy story and Catherine McAuley’s legacy will continue way into the future.

Do you have any specific study/career/ travel highlights?

I have travelled extensively to over 30 countries but most enjoyed my time in communities where I was able to give back. I worked in an orphanage in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya, helping out in the school. I participated in a program run by Victoria University called SWIRL: Story Writing in Remote Locations, where I stayed on a remote Indigenous community for a month. This was a literacy- based school holiday program that sought to ensure there were more texts that where culturally relevant in their school libraries. We helped students write narratives and take photographs of daily activities in their remote communities and turn these into books. I also completed a teacher study tour in the Philippines. This was run by an NGO called Bahay Tuluyan

who work with street kids, advocating for their rights. We ran lessons on the middle of roundabouts and assisted with the distribution of meals through their food truck.

All these encounters taught me so much more about myself and the world then I could ever offer those I was working with. I was struck by the level of happiness and joy in these communities, where people were often living in very dire circumstances: Kids without parents or shelter, and some with no access to education, yet they still met us every day with ear-to-ear smiles. They found joy in the simplest of things and really taught me about the transformative power of gratitude.

My travels also taught me about the importance of encounter and its ability to shape our view of the world. We hear about injustices in the world on the news or through social media, but we are so far removed and desensitised that we often are unaffected by the pain and suffering we hear about. It is not until you met a refugee, a survivor, a persecuted person or someone living in extreme poverty that a statistic takes on a human face and you can no longer remain unaffected. In most cases we don’t even need to do much, just walk alongside these people. I didn’t leave any of these places making a huge difference on any of the communities (in fact, I’m sure things would have been the same whether I had gone or not), however, a massive change did occur inside me. These experiences inspired me to advocate for vulnerable peoples and seek out those in need.

I saw Mercy in the faces I met and

it made me want to live my life as a woman of Mercy.

these are the things you will remember.

You only get out what you put in!

What skills have you learned across your life so far, and what has been the biggest challenge you’ve overcome?

Who or what inspired you?

To take risks and move out of your comfort zone. The personal growth and gains from this are plentiful. Losing my mum in my early adulthood was a big personal challenge to overcome, but it has taught me I have strength I didn’t even know I had.

How do you recall your time at St Aloysius? What is your fondest memory?

I remember my time at St Al’s so fondly.

I found myself in a community that welcomed me, nourished me and gave me a great sense of belonging. I felt empowered to be a young woman of purpose and graduated with a desire to get out into the world. Once you are a part of the Mercy family and its values have shaped you, it forever gives you a place to belong. I made many lifelong friendships during my time there and loved it so much I returned to teach once I graduated. I have especially fond memories of my times as a student in the school production, and Sr Joan Thomas making all our costumes by hand.

Strong women! My grandmother in my own personal life and then the teachers who embodied mercy every day in the classrooms of St Al’s, and the story of Catherine McAuley herself.

What are your career aspirations on the coming years? Any exciting new projects to share with us?

Continue working with the amazing people I coordinate at Young Mercy Links, as well as raising my two children. YML are heading off to Cambodia this month to visit Mercy sister Denise Coghlan at the Jesuit Refugee Services reflection centre in Siem Reap. We will help out with a house build for landmine victims while we are there, as well as immersing ourselves in the culture and history. We have worked all year to run fundraiser events to cover the material costs for the build.

If you could give your high school self some words of advice, what would they be?

Enjoy your time whilst you are there.

It is such a short season in life, but one, or if not the most, formative. Get involved as much as you can. Do all those extra-curricular activities, put your hand up for leadership positions– Always Aloysius | Summer 2023

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Alumni Stories

Safe, Happy and Healthy AMBER SIDONI, SINGER AND AUTHOR What year did you graduate?

2019 What study and work did you undertake after you finished Year 12?

Bachelor of Music with a special interest in Marketing and Professional writing.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to take your study and career path?

Step out of your comfort zone and embrace discomfort. Creative spaces often tempt us to stay within what feels safe, yet it’s when we push past fear and discomfort that true growth happens. Moreover, this opens doors to connect with new people and dive into valuable experiences!

What influenced your choice of career as a performer and vocal coach?

Besides my love for singing and 12

performing from a young age, I also had a love for helping others and expressed an interest in teaching. Over my time at school, I have also been surrounded by incredible teachers who continue to make tremendous impacts on my life. This in turn has fuelled my own desire to make that same impact on my own students.

Do you have any specific study/career/ travel highlights?

Yes absolutely. After leaving school, I endeavoured on directing and creating my own shows as part of my musical journey. One of my most memorable moments was my sold out show at Chapel Off Chapel which I titled Embers of Gold. In addition to this I have been a part of the production team and performed in Benny’s Coming Together Christmas on SBS Viceland, wrote a song for Beetlejuice; The Musical writer, Eddie Perfect, who

featured my song in his show and released my debut single, Happy Place in October.

With all this being said however, my favourite highlight of my career thus far would have to be the children’s book I released with my best friend this year, titled Safe, Happy and Healthy.

This book has brought me so much joy and has been so incredibly fulfilling.

In January 2023 we are thrilled to be partnering up with the Starlight Foundation and working with educators and mental health advocates in schools and communities all across Victoria. I am so excited to continue to spread the word and help put this book in front of the kids (and adults) who need it most.

What skills have you learned across your life so far, and what has been the

biggest challenge you’ve overcome?

In my time I have certainly learnt the importance of self worth in all respects.

I have learnt it is okay to prioritise your needs and to always lead with kindness and compassion towards not only others, but yourself also.

How do you recall your time at St Aloysius? What is your fondest memory?

My time at St Al’s was wonderful.

I cherish countless fond memories with teachers and classmates who consistently supported my growth and provided an environment where I could thrive academically. One standout memory was our Year 7 celebration evening (Awards Evening in 2014) where I was awarded with the Mercy Education Scholarship and featured in the CEM Magazine. It was a moment of immense pride for both me and my parents, caught completely

off guard by the recognition. Being acknowledged in such a way was incredibly touching and I remember feeling so seen. That moment will forever hold such a special place in my heart.

If you could give your high school self some words of advice, what would they be?

Stop being so in your head and be kinder to yourself. You don’t have to have it all figured it out. Everything will fall into place the way it’s supposed to.

Also stop staying up late to finish your books. Get a good night’s sleep!

Who or what inspired you?

My sister (another St Aloysius Alum) is someone who certainly inspires me. We may have completely different paths in life in terms of career and interests, however, her work ethic, independence and desire to bring the best out of everyone around her is incredibly

inspiring.

What are your career aspirations on the coming years? Any exciting new projects to share with us?

In the future, I hope to delve more into musical theatre. I have just recently finished a 3 week season with Dogfight the Musical at Chapel Off Chapel and would love to continue my love for theatre on a professional level one day.

My love for musical theatre actually started at St Als. I hope to one day have our book picked up by a publisher and available in major retailers. To be able to see my name and book in a bookstore would be a dream come true.

In 2024, I will be performing at The Palms at Crown for a one night only musical showcase on February 3rd, called Futuration which I am incredibly excited about. I am also hoping to release more music in 2024!

Always Aloysius | Summer 2023

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Year 7 Reflections

Year 7 Reflections EMMA TURNER, YEAR 7 PASTORAL LEADER Embracing co-education at St Aloysius College in 2023 has been at the forefront of my teaching practice. A co-ed year level has created a beacon of positive change, encouraging other year levels to interact with the girls and boys. Life is co-ed, and becoming a co-educational school reflects the outside world.

The transition to co-education provides opportunities for students to develop social and emotional intelligence, highlighting the importance of respectful relationships. The learning programs in Year 7 enable students to foster critical thinking and intellectual growth, which is further developed 14

across the programs in the other year levels. My experience as a Pastoral Leader of 7A, teaching three Year 7 classes for Health and Physical Education, delivering the Year 7 Coaching Program, and being involved in Year 7 ACS, has been incredibly rewarding. The strong relationship that I have developed with the students has equipped me with a deeper understanding of the learning and wellbeing needs of students. Co-education at St Aloysius College is an exciting change for the school community.

So far, my first year at St Aloysius has been great. At times, all of the homework and assessment tasks can be stressful, but here, the teachers and your friends make it a lot easier. Some of the things that I enjoy here are ACS sport, the introduction of new subjects, and making new friends. At first, it was a bit nerve-racking trying to make friends, but everyone here is amazing and welcomes each other into friendships. My experience with new subjects has also been an exciting one. Some of the new subjects to me were humanities, health, Japanese, and drama. Through these subjects, I have learned so much from the work and the teachers. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn these new things and hope that I can continue to learn through my high school journey. One of my favourite things this year has been ACS sport. I chose to play basketball in summer and soccer in winter. I have played soccer in the past, but basketball was almost a completely new experience for me. I have been able to make new friends from playing in a team, and the competitive spirit while playing is great. Overall, the St Aloysius community is a place that welcomes and includes everyone, and a sanctuary for learning opportunities for all.

JULIUS CANTONI, 7A

As a student at St Aloysius College, it has been an experience full of mixed emotions and feelings. Meeting new people, having new teachers, and learning new subjects are all part of high school. The highlight of my secondary school journey so far is experiencing new things and going outside of my comfort zone. It has been a new and fresh start that has made me the person I am. We get provided with many different opportunities to excel in our academic learning. Although the most challenging part of my year would be the workload, it has been hard to adjust to having homework assigned every day, but eventually, it becomes an ease. When moving on to high school, it is difficult to learn in a new environment, with unfamiliar faces around you. But eventually, it becomes the least of your worries. Learning at St Aloysius has been easy to adjust to.

The teachers are always willing to help and are always taking the students’ feelings into consideration. As a Year 7 student, I look forward to continuing my high school life and building upon my skills. I learned that it is okay to be scared and that high school is an exciting journey. At times, you may feel like giving up, but don’t, because in the end, everything will be worth it.

HOLLY TRANG, 7A

Always Aloysius | Summer 2023

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www.aloysius.vic.edu.au 31 Curran Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051 03 9325 9200

ENROLMENT PROCESS 1 Attend Campus Tour Book via College website 2 Submit Online Application See College website for details 3 Final Steps Interview, offer & acceptance process 16

Co-education Enrolments now open for Year 7 2026 and beyond

Community Connect

Parents and Friends Association RUTH MCCLELLAND, COMMUNITY CONNECT PRESIDENT

2023 has been a busy year reestablishing Community Connect, the College’s parents and friends association. Our activities for the year included: Community Connect presence at various College events including school tours, musical, breakfasts, etc. to create awareness about the Committee •

Survey of parents/carers

•

Year 7 Bowling Night

•

Year 8 & 9 Trivia Night

Several hundred parents and students enjoyed the laughs, food and drinks, and making new connections at the Bowling and Trivia nights. I’d like to thank all the families who came out on

a cold night to attend and be a part of the school community, and particularly to the organisers and hosts of these events. Personally I have found it so much easier navigating the ups, down and administration of parenting a highschooler now that I know other parents to reach out to for help when needed, or even just as a sounding board about school matters. I have met these parents through Community Connect.

We have already sketched out a calendar of great activities for 2024, including all the above plus new initiatives such as a whole-school event, a parent Facebook page, appointment of contact parents for each year level,

reaching out to various groups in the school community, and more, and we’d love you to be involved.

Community Connect is for all parents and friends of St Aloysius College. We meet for one hour, once a month and are keen to hear from anyone who’d like to join the Committee, or just help organise a social night, donate a prize, speak at an event, fundraise, be a parent contact person/class rep, establish a social justice activity, etc.

If you have ideas on how to make the community better, please reach out. To learn more about Community Connect please email me at president_cc@ aloysius.vic.edu.au or contact any member of Community Connect.

Always Aloysius | Summer 2023

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Mercy Day On Friday, 8 September, we celebrated Mercy Day, where we honour our heritage and legacy of our College, being founded by the Sisters of Mercy and its foundress Catherine McAuley. The day connected closely with our House Charities with students starting the day within their House Groups allocated in Year Level groupings.

Within this first session of the day, students were involved in ways to support their particular House and affiliated charities by either raising awareness, creating products for sale to raise funds or by displaying their creativity in producing items that would be beneficial to their House Charities.

For example, McAuley House students created Teddy Bears and digital children’s story books for McAuley Community Services for Women, Scully House had guest speakers from 18

St Vincent de Paul Society come out and share their efforts with assisting people experiencing homelessness in our neighbourhood, Fallon House decorated cupcakes to sell later in the day supporting Mercy Works and their Indigenous projects, and Verdon House visited Royal Park Gardens, for a guided discovery in caring for our environment linking in with supporting Mercy EcoCommunities.

As a main component of our Mercy Day celebrations, our College community participated in a formal School Assembly and Mass celebrated

by Fr Thang Vu. Our guest speaker at the assembly was Jamie Macmillan from the North Melbourne Football Club, sharing with us his connection to community and how important acknowledging and thanking those who support us on our journeys in life is. This reminded us of our connections

to those in our school community and the assistance they provide.

In celebrating the Mass of the Holy Eucharist, students and staff led prayers and readings focusing on our theme on sharing Christ’s Light. A very big thank you to the many staff and students who were involved in our Mass, including prayer readers, Ministers of Communion, photographers, technical crew as well as our musicians for leading us in prayer through music.

After the Mass, students participated in House activities that focus on “bringing light” towards our local and extended Mercy community by raising funds for the House Charities. Students led the running of various fundraising events such as a ‘Just Dance’ competition and a sausage sizzle, raising in excess of $830 which has been donated to our House charities.

The school community gathered again in the hall to announce our House Co-Curricular Competitions and Programs where students won points for their House groups. This included the House Creative Arts competition, House Performing Arts competition, House STEM competition and House Social Justice Program initiatives, showcasing the various talents of the students at St Aloysius.

Once students were dismissed, the staff gathered for our annual Mercy Day staff auction, where staff bid against donated items, raising over $1000 towards our supported Mercy Charities.

Overall, it was a great success in displaying our Mercy charism, continuing the legacy of Catherine McAuley by supporting those in need in our community, and celebrating our school spirit.

Always Aloysius | Summer 2023

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College Musical NADIA LA VELLE, MUSICAL DIRECTOR AND PERFORMING ARTS LEADER Oh, The Thinks You Can Think!

Seussical Jr did what any good musical should – it entertained. However, it also accomplished what great theatre does, it challenged the audience to think.

By combining the endless possibilities that lie within the pages of Dr Seuss’ imagination, it also highlighted some of the great life lessons embedded with his texts; to be thankful, be kind, and to think big.

Set in Whoville, a town that lacked colour and vibrancy, the only form of escape and expression that young JoJo could find was within the vivid thinks 20

that he thinks. Seussical Jr conveyed the exaggerated inner thoughts of a child struggling to find their place in the world and highlighted the positivity of finding oneself and accepting others as they are, after all a person’s, a person, no matter how small.

Think, of the extremely talented, passionate, and dedicated creative and production team who took this journey with me. To each and every one of them, please say thank you! Think, of the cast and crew and thank them for their creativity, enthusiasm, energy, and time they gave so selflessly. Think,

of these students and how they are a credit to St Aloysius College, their families and themselves.

Seussical Jr was a resounding success, performed to sell-out shows and to over a thousand audience members, we were so happy to have taken you on our adventure to Whoville and the Jungle of Nool.

It’s been such a pleasure being involved in the College Musical this year as I’ve been able to express my passion and love for Performing Arts. I’ve created so many beautiful memories with everyone else involved, and the countless hours we put into our rehearsals for the school musical brought a joy to our College community. Along with being in the College Choir, being a part of A Capella has also fostered the opportunity for my skills as a collaborator and performer to improve. I am thankful to have been given this opportunity as I get to bond with new people and make lifelong friendships. I look forward to doing more of what I love in the following years.

ERIKA BINUYA Year 8 ************** My first year at St Aloysius College has been a rollercoaster of exciting events, but participating in the Musical and Choir have been the highlight of my year. Before coming to St Aloysius, I watched Aladdin Jr, and was impressed at the quality of the musical, which motivated me to audition.

I auditioned and was thrilled to have been selected to participate! I met so many people through the Musical and the Choir and found a passion in dance and singing.

I will definitely be continuing Choir and auditioning next year!

FRANKIE BLAISDELL, Year 7 ************** Being in the College Musical was an amazing experience. Even though there were some long nights, having fun singing and dancing with some of my friends made them worth it. It was truly an unforgettable experience that helped me gain more confidence in myself as a performer.

SEB HALL Year 7

Always Aloysius | Summer 2023

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Student Achievements

ABC Q+A MADELEINE IRVINE, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

Congratulations to Polly Jean Butterfield Polly is a keen rower who has been rowing four days a week this year, as well as competing. She had a great introduction to rowing in the 22-23 season, some good wins and plenty of places and learning. She trained all winter and at the Club’s Triathlon in mid August (Ergo, Time Trial Row on river, Time Trial street bike ride) PJ placed first amongst all the girls. She’s continued to train with focus and on Sunday 7th Oct she did her first 4000m Single Scull race at the Head of the Barwon, in a combined Grade A, B and C time trial. She is Grade C. She finished 2nd overall and 1st in Grade C, outpacing rowers in all three grades.

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On Wednesday, 19th July. St Aloysius College was proud to take 12 student representatives to the ABC studios in Southbank where they joined students from various schools across the state in the audience in a Behind the News (BTN) and Q+A Special, posing questions about the thoughts and concerns of their generation to a panel comprising politicians and youth leaders. All students involved represented the College exceptionally well, some of them share their reflections on the evening below.

We congratulate in particular Fadzai Bako and Tabitha De Los Santos, who respectively posed a question to Minister for Early Education Anne Aly, and provided feedback on their experiences of the evening. You can re-watch the show on ABC iview and catch the highlights and After Q+A on Youtube.

On Wednesday 19th I went with the school and some selected students to be part of the audience in the ABC’s Q+A audience. We were able to submit some questions on the topic of youth, education and our future which may be chosen to be discussed during the panel itself. Though my question was not chosen it was by far one of the best school experiences I have had all year, from getting to see inside the ABC studio, experiencing the production process to listening to the insightful debates and discussion, riveted by all the different arguments and buzzing to share my own opinion. The panel considered a range of topics all of which felt so relevant to my future and the future of my own generation, from AI in schools to nuclear energy to the commonwealth games. The trip back to school with the rest of the students really sealed the night with a loud and energised, rambling discussion about all the things we noticed and heated opinions on what we did or didn’t agree with. What surprised me was that the experience has inspired me to learn and understand more about current politics and issues, something I would previously have not even considered.

MEERA MELVILLE

Being a part of the Q+A audience was an amazing opportunity to learn more about the things that concern us as a generation the most. It was really interesting to hear the different opinions that the panel members had, especially since they were mostly people our age. I found it very inspiring to see so many young people having such a positive influence and getting involved in the community. The show allowed everyone to have their opinions heard and questions answered, and I am very grateful to have been given the chance to be a part of it.

MOLLY MEALMAKER ************** The Q+A show was an amazing experience to be a part of, it provided me with many new insights about opinions and experiences from both audience members and the panel. It was extremely motivating to see all the young leaders on the panel and how far they have come in life, due to the experiences they were presented with. It showed the true effects of what happens when you put your mind to something, that you truly have the ability to achieve anything. Being able to hear the guests’ responses to questions was an inspiring night to be a part of.

Recently a few students and I got to be in the audience at the ABC show, Q+A, this was a very enlightening experience and I would definitely encourage it to possibly be a semi-regular occurrence at our school.

This was a good opportunity for all the students who were able to come because we got to test our brains on politics, education systems and nuclear fueling, and we able to be an interactive audience and clap and laugh with the panel.

This experience was a chance for us to be more courageous and come out of our comfort zone, by clapping when we feel strongly about what someone was saying, and especially for the students asking the questions, and I would strongly recommend registering your own questions to Q+A. TABITHA DE LOS SANTOS

ABBEY LUKE

Always Aloysius | Summer 2023

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Year 2 Applied Fashion

Art and Technology Exhibition

Charlotte Nelson, Year 12

JOANNA GRUJOVSKI, VISUAL ART AND TECHNOLOGY LEADER In 2023, students across all the creative subjects immersed themselves through various techniques and skills that demonstrated their excellence in innovation and creativity.

From landscape paintings, lino printing, Monster Softies, Hoodies, winter coats and ceramics our students are dedicated to completing artworks and products, in a culture that values creativity, risk-taking, and continuous improvement. Students are recognised and rewarded for innovative ideas and efforts, even if they didn’t always lead to immediate success. Fostering innovation at St Aloysius is an ongoing process that requires a receptive and adaptable mindset. By creating an environment that values and nurtures 24

creativity, our students can position themselves for continued growth and success in a rapidly changing world.

The intersection of Art and Technology has been a source of excitement and innovation throughout the year. The Art and Technology Exhibition was an event that showcased the fusion of artistic expression and innovation.

The exhibition featured artworks that leveraged various forms of projects, such as such as Digital Media, Fine Art, Fashion Textiles, Ceramics, and branding. The goal of our exhibition was to explore the intersection between Art and Technology, pushing the boundaries of traditional artistic mediums and creating new experiences for our community of viewers.

Once again, we were delighted to present the Annual Fashion Parade that showcased the incredible talents of our students in the realm of fashion.

Fashion, like any other form of Art, has the power to transcend boundaries and ignite conversations. Through their designs, our students have poured their hearts and souls into creating garments that not only reflect their individuality but also challenge conventional notions of beauty and style.

The Melbourne Royal Show was also a great success, with students placing across all categories entered. This is a testament to the Arts and Technology teachers, their dedication and expertise leading our students to have the courage to believe in their skills and submit entries.

Father’s Day Breakfast On Friday September 1st we celebrated the annual Father’s Day breakfast. We thank the many fathers and significant others who attended this occasion with their sons and daughters.

Our guest speaker, Dr Fabio Zambetta from the RMIT University School of Computing Technologies (Associate Dean, Artificial Intelligence and Deputy Director, AI - Sir Lawrence Wackett Defence & Aerospace Centre), is a computer scientist with expertise in designing AI techniques in games, AR/ VR, and real-time simulation. We thank

Dr Zambetta very much for his time this morning. Throughout his thoughtprovoking presentation, the audience was highly engaged and his address on ‘The future of Computer Human Interaction’ was very well received by all present - we expect that question time would have lasted all day if it could have!

We do hope that this visit represents the founding steps of our College’s ongoing collaboration with RMIT in all areas of STEM, including computer science, AI and programming.

Always Aloysius | Summer 2023

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New Staff Welcome CHRIS MCKENZIE I am pleased to be joining St Aloysius College as the new Education and Learning Analytics Leader. I started my career as a secondary school teacher but then moved into the higher education sector undertaking a variety of project, governance and policy roles.

Throughout these roles I have had the opportunity to work with teachers to review how data can be used to improve educational outcomes for students and I look forward to continuing this work at St Aloysius.

I have two lovely kids, which ensures weekends are busy with a range of activities, but I also enjoy playing sport and working in the garden when there is a chance.

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LISA LUONG Hi everyone!

I’m Lisa, the new Food Technician at St Aloysius.

My background is mainly in Food Science & Technology. I’m here after working in the food industry for many years as a lab technician, specialising in testing & quality control of edible oils, fats and margarine spreads.

Food is a big passion of mine. I think the most enjoyable part about food is the social aspect because it gives us the opportunity to share our diversity and cultures with one another.

I enjoy trying out new recipes and hope to help the school community connect with one another through food.

Farewelling the Class of 2023

We hope your dreams stay big, your worries stay small, and that you never have to carry more than you can hold.

Always Aloysius | Summer 2023

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

03 9325 9200

E

principal@aloysius.vic.edu.au

www.aloysius.vic.edu.au