On Board with the Rev
Rev Dr Gareth Clayton OAM, Chaplain
PEACE - JUSTICE
The struggle for JUSTICE is the struggle for PEACE
Karl Barth, widely regarded as the greatest theologian of the twentieth century, profoundly observed in his book with the title Insights, “Peace is SERIOUS BUSINESS!
If there is JUSTICE, there is NO NEED FOR WAR!”
Why does justice seem so difficult to commit to?
Might integrity, honesty, compassion impact the struggle?
Peter in his second letter (2 Peter 1: 5-7) encourages his readers to take these steps,
... to your self-control add endurance to your endurance add godliness to your godliness add Christian affection to your Christian affection add love ... and then there is JESUS,
“Peace is what I leave with you...” (John 14:27 GNT)
Editorial
Photographers: Anna Murray
Blue & White is published twice a year by the College Advancement Team for the St Andrew’s College Community.
Front cover: Kristen Emseis (Fr 2024) by Anna Murray.
This page: The Rawson Rugby Final by student photographer Xavier Cardozo (Fr 2024).
Back cover: Students on the lawn by Anna Murray
team: The Advancement Team
Dr Rebekah Currer
Matthew Duchesne
From the Chair
From revitalised spaces to record-breaking applications, 2026 has begun with inspiring momentum as we hold tight to the ideals that have always distinguished St Andrew’s College.
Semester One of 2026 has been a period of genuine momentum for St Andrew’s College, and one that gives Council real cause for confidence as we look to the year ahead.
The completion of the Junior Common Room upgrade has been one of the most visible expressions of what our community can achieve when it comes together. What began as a vision for a more connected student life has been realised in a space that now hosts everything from quiet study sessions and coffee breaks to Highlander bar nights and major event screenings. We are deeply grateful to every donor whose generosity made this transformation possible.
The momentum in philanthropy more broadly continues to inspire. Our Annual Giving campaign is now focused on two priorities that sit at the heart of what we do: the Main Library Upgrade and our means-tested scholarship program. The Library is a space that every student touches every day, and its renewal will serve the College for generations. Our scholarships ensure that talented young people from all backgrounds, including those from regional and rural Australia, can access the life-changing opportunity that Drew’s represents. I encourage you
to read more about both in the Annual Philanthropy Report.
The record 1,017 applications received for the 2026 intake speaks powerfully to the College’s enduring reputation. The Admissions team conducted an unprecedented 647 interviews, and demand continues to far exceed our available places. That is both a privilege and a responsibility, and it reinforces the importance of our scholarship program in ensuring that financial circumstance is never the reason a deserving student cannot be here.
Looking ahead, Council is making meaningful progress on the next five-year strategic plan. The process has been genuinely collaborative, drawing on the perspectives of staff, students, the Foundation, and SACAS. Our focus will remain on what has always distinguished Drew’s: academic excellence, a strong sense of belonging, and an unwavering commitment to the flourishing of every individual in our community.
I would like to thank Daniel and the entire staff team for the energy and care they bring to this College every day. The partnership between Council and the Principal’s office has never been stronger, and I am proud of what we are building together.
Our focus will remain on what has always distinguished Drew’s: academic excellence, a strong sense of belonging, and an unwavering commitment to the flourishing of every individual in our community.
To our alumni, donors, parents and friends, thank you. What you give to this place is returned, many times over, in the lives of the students who call it home.
Below:
Top: L-R: Senior Student, Aredith Janarth (Fr 2024), Principal, Dr Daniel Tyler, and the Chair of Council, Jeremy Hoffmann (Fr 2003).
Chair of Council, Jeremy Hoffmann (Fr 2003) and Adrian Fonseca at the 2026 University & Schools Dinner.
Jeremy Hoffmann (Fr 2003) Chair of Council
From the Bird
Semester One of 2026 has seen new and returning students engage widely and whole-heartedly in the life of the College.
Life at St Andrew’s has been full and vibrant again this semester. We have witnessed the energy and excitement of Welcome Week, a packed Dining Hall at our weekly Formal Dinners, vigorous support in Rawson, Rosebowl and Palladian. These are not incidental features of College life. They are its substance.
Our students continue to excel. The data tells part of the story: applications for the 2026 intake reached a record 1,017, reflecting a growing recognition of what a residential college experience can offer at this stage of a young person’s life. But the numbers only gesture at what we know from experience to be the sought-after power of college, where young people arrive uncertain what their university years will have in store and leave, a few years later, profoundly shaped by the experience of living and learning alongside others.
The opening of the refurbished Junior Common Room has been one of the recent highlights. It has become firmly established as a thriving gathering place: with students socialising together, studying together, supporting one another and making time for connection in the midst of busy academic lives.
The academic program continues to go from strength to strength. Students who attend College tutorials regularly are achieving Semester Average Marks ten points higher
than those who do not, a vivid demonstration of the power of in-person tutorials with peers, led by subject matter experts, in an environment where you feel a sense of belonging and support. Our short course program, our professional development evenings, and the mentoring program are each building the holistic development, personal growth and readiness for the future that university lectures alone cannot provide.
...the sought-after power of college, where young people [are] profoundly shaped by the experience of living and learning alongside others”.
Our outreach this semester has taken us beyond Sydney into regional New South Wales and interstate, to careers expos, schools, and communities that might not otherwise encounter this College. Our inaugural Student Leadership Symposium for Year 12 student leaders has drawn the attention of promising school students from a range of schools to what the College has to offer. St Andrew’s has a remarkable capacity to open up new possibilities for our students and to raise their aspirations. Our outreach initiatives aim to make sure the opportunities that College provides are available to high-potential students from a wide range of backgrounds.
To our alumni, parents, and benefactors who continue to invest in this community, your generosity changes lives in ways that are both practical and invaluable. The scholarships you fund open doors and the events you support build connections. The belief you express in St Andrew’s encourages and strengthens us all.
Semester Two awaits, with much to look forward to. I am grateful, as always, for the privilege of leading this extraordinary College.
Dr Daniel Tyler Principal
Below:
Opposite page:
Dr Daniel Tyler and guests at the 1867 Circle Lunch in 2025.
Top:
Dr Daniel Tyler and Chair of Foundation, Niall Cairns (Fr 1981) at the Parents’ Cocktail Evening.
Dr Daniel Tyler with students at the Leadership Weekend in 2025.
From the Student Leaders
At the beginning of the year, the House Committee set three priorities for the College: encouraging active involvement, fostering a kind community, and supporting the holistic growth of our students.
As Semester One draws to a close, it is clear that these principles have not only guided our efforts, but have increasingly been embraced by the broader student body.
If there is one characteristic that has defined Semester One, it is active involvement. Across sport, culture and community life, students have approached College with enthusiasm and a willingness to contribute. Participation in Rawson, Rosebowl
and Palladian competitions has been consistently strong, while intramural competitions have attracted such interest that several events required waitlists. This level of engagement reflects a community that understands the strength of the College depends not on a select few, but on the willingness of many to be involved. Students have increasingly embraced the idea that they are contributors to the life of the College rather than merely consumers of it, and the College is stronger for it.
Much of this momentum can be traced back to Welcome Week. The House Committee was deliberate in its efforts to preserve the traditions that make St Andrew’s distinctive while ensuring they remained welcoming, inclusive and relevant to a new generation of students. The response from our fresher cohort has been outstanding. Their willingness to step outside their comfort zones, embrace opportunities and contribute to College life has helped establish a culture that has endured well beyond the opening weeks of semester.
Equally important has been the
strength of our community. St Andrew’s has always been at its best when students feel known, valued and supported, and there has been a conscious effort this year to cultivate a culture characterised by kindness, respect and genuine care for one another. The revitalisation of the Junior Common Room has played an important role in this regard. With the introduction of the pool table and a renewed focus on making the space an active part of daily College life, the JCR has become the beating heart of the College: a place where friendships are formed, conversations are had, and community is strengthened. Strong attendance at Formal Dinners and community events throughout the semester has further reinforced the importance of bringing students together across year groups and backgrounds.
Semester One has also been marked by a number of notable achievements. In Rosebowl, the College secured victories in both Netball and Swimming, while Palladian saw outstanding success in Solo Vocal, with students achieving first and second place. The introduction of
The Caledonia added a new and highly successful event to the student calendar, receiving strong support both within the College and across the intercollegiate community. These achievements are worth celebrating not merely because of the results themselves, but because they reflect the talent, commitment and collegiate spirit of our students.
Underlying all of this has been a commitment to supporting the holistic growth of our members. The purpose of collegiate life extends beyond academic achievement alone. It lies in providing opportunities for students to develop as leaders, competitors, performers, scholars and friends. Through sport, culture, service, leadership and community, students have continued to challenge themselves, support one another and make the most of the opportunities available to them.
Overall, the College is in a strong position. Participation remains high, community remains strong, and students continue to embrace the opportunities and responsibilities that come with collegiate life. These foundations have shaped a successful Semester One and provide every reason to be confident about the semester ahead.
On behalf of the House Committee, I thank our students, staff, Council members, alumni and benefactors for their continued support. We look forward to building on this momentum throughout the remainder of the year.
Aredith Janarth (Fr 2024)
Senior Student
Lola Ankcorn (Fr 2024)
Honorary Secretary
Sam Singleton (Fr 2024)
Honorary Treasurer
Opposite page: The 2026 House Committee.
2026 Executive Committee: L-R Aredith Janarth (Fr 2024), Lola Ankcorn (Fr 2024), Sam Singleton (Fr 2024).
This page above and below: Students at the Leadership Weekend in 2025.
Student Life Update: Wellbeing at St Andrew’s
Wellbeing at St Andrew’s is more than a program or service - it is a defining part of the experience. For many students, arriving at College marks one of the most significant transitions of their lives.
It is often the first time living away from home, forming new friendships, navigating academic expectations, and establishing independence all at once. Alongside the excitement comes a natural degree of uncertainty, as familiar support networks shift and students begin to find their place in a new environment.
At St Andrew’s, there is a strong and longstanding recognition that this period of transition is pivotal. The College places a high value on ensuring that students are afforded the rights and responsibilities of adulthood, but simultaneously feel supported not just academically, but socially and emotionally. The aim is simple: that
no student feels anonymous, and that each individual is known, valued, supported, and able to flourish. This focus underpins a range of initiatives, both formal and informal, that together shape a connected and supportive community.
Dean of Wellbeing
A key development this year has been the appointment of Fletcher Smith as Dean of Wellbeing. Fletcher brings a renewed sense of strategy to the College’s wellbeing approach, with a focus on early engagement and consistent touchpoints. His role helps to ensure that wellbeing is visible in everyday College life, not only in times of challenge, but in the small, regular interactions that build trust and connection over time.
Pastoral Care Leaders
Supporting this work is a dedicated team of Pastoral Care Leaders, drawn from the senior student cohorts.
These student leaders play an important peer-support role within the College, helping to create an environment whereby students feel comfortable seeking guidance from those who have recently navigated similar experiences. Their presence adds an additional layer of connection, ensuring that support is not only staff-led but also embedded within the student community itself.
Student Counsellor
A final important part of this network is the College’s Student Counsellor, Leif Lawson, who provides professional, confidential, in-house counselling three days a week. Having professional support available on-site makes it easier for students to seek help in a familiar and discreet setting. The confidentiality of the service is central, ensuring that students can engage openly and with confidence, knowing that support is readily accessible when needed.
Principal’s Lunches
For our First-Year students, that sense of connection flows from the Welcome Week program into the popular ‘Principal’s Lunches’. These smaller, informal gatherings provide students with the opportunity to share a meal and conversation with College staff in a relaxed setting. For many students, these lunches are an early opportunity to feel welcomed, recognised, and heard - designed to be intentionally low-key, creating space for conversation and giving staff an opportunity to get a sense of how students are settling in, both socially and academically.
Fresher Wellbeing Check-ins
This initiative is complemented by Fresher wellbeing check-ins conducted by Fletcher Smith, Dean of Wellbeing, across the second half of Semester One. These touchpoint conversations allow for more individualised support, recognising that each student’s transition experience is different. Some students adjust quickly, while others take longer to find their footing. Regular check-ins ensure that support can be tailored as needed.
These initiatives reflect a holistic approach to wellbeing at St Andrew’s. They are designed not only to respond to challenges, but to create an environment in which students feel supported from their very first weeks. For parents and alumni, there is reassurance in the strength of this approach and in the care taken to support students during such a formative stage of their lives.
Ultimately, wellbeing at College is about more than just support - it is about belonging and connection. It is found in shared experiences, in meaningful conversations, and in the quiet confidence that no student is navigating this transition alone.
Alice Draffin Vice Principal and Director of Student Life
Opposite page: Students at Welcome Week. This page, top to bottom:
L-R: Student Counsellor Leif Lawson and Student Life Manager & Head of Sport Tessa Bruin with Vice Principal and Director of Student Life Alice Draffin.
Dean of Wellbeing, Fletcher Smith, at the 2026 University & Schools Dinner. Students at the Leadership Weekend in 2025.
Admissions & Outreach
Cheng invited students to think critically about leadership in school and beyond, while a panel of current St Andrew’s student leaders offered candid reflections on how leadership evolves beyond the structured roles of school. The event was extremely successful, with myriad students taking the time to share with me that it was a valuable experience and how thankful they were.
University Expos
Semester One has been marked by an energetic outreach program, reflecting both the breadth of our engagement and the strength of our relationships with students, schools, and communities across New South Wales and Australia.
Student Leadership Symposium
A key highlight was the inaugural Student Leadership Symposium, held in the College Chapel on 14 May, which brought together Year 12 School Captains and Vice Captains from a diverse group of schools, including Knox Grammar School, Penrith Selective High School, Blue Mountains Grammar School, Reddam House, Frensham, Central Coast Grammar School, Trinity Grammar School, and Manly Selective. Designed as a focused day of leadership training, the program combined practical exercises and student-led conversation. Sessions from USYD Academic Dr Maria Ishkova and our College’s Head of Business, Ryan
Alongside this initiative, St Andrew’s has maintained a strong presence at careers expos and information evenings across the state. Over the past two months, we have connected with thousands of students and families at events including the Central Coast Future Pathways Expo (26 March), the Young Careers Expo (28 April), FACTS (Facts About Careers & Tertiary Studies) Day in Bathurst (1 May), and the Lower North Shore Expo at SHORE (11 May), as well as visits to Scotch College Melbourne and the Melbourne Girls’ and Melbourne Grammar Future Pathways Expo (6 May). Regional engagement has also been a priority, with Wayne Erickson AM travelling to Tamworth for a Parents’ Information Evening (12 May) and the Northwest Regional Careers Expo (13 May), followed by the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie Career Expo (14 May) and the Hunter Valley Expo (15 May). These events have been invaluable opportunities to share what St Andrew’s offers with audiences who may not otherwise encounter the College, and to build pathways for future applicants.
The Sydney Character Initiative
Accompanying this work has been a renewed and expanding focus on character education. Alongside a number of schools, colleges, and universities, St Andrew’s has partnered with the Sydney Character Initiative. The Quarter 1 Founders Roundtable, held on 27 March in the Chapel, brought together educational leaders to consider the provocation of a “distinctively Australian” conception of character, exploring how national stories, cultural traditions, and community life inform the formation of young people. There was a strong sense of shared purpose in these discussions, alongside a willingness to engage seriously with the complexity of character formation in contemporary contexts.
This collaboration positions the College within a broader national conversation about education and formation. As the Sydney Character Initiative moves toward piloting its Fellowship and accreditation programs later this year, St Andrew’s is an important contributor to the conversation about character formation in educational and communal living contexts. The emphasis on character formation resonates strongly with the lived experience of the College and provides a compelling articulation of what distinguishes its offering. The Quarter 2 Founders Roundtable was held in June.
Applications on the Rise
Interest in attending St Andrew’s continues to grow. For the 2026 intake, the College received a record 1,017 applications - up from 883 the previous year and 644 in 2024. The Admissions Panel conducted an unprecedented 647 interviews, reflecting both the scale and quality of the applicant pool. Demand remains highly competitive, with just over 100 residential places available, further constrained by exceptionally strong retention rates in recent cohorts. This sustained growth highlights the College’s enduring appeal and reputation for delivering a transformative student experience.
Dr Caitlin Macdonald
Admissions Officer & Head of Arts
Opposite Page:L-R: Current students during Welcome Week.
Top:
Below:
Students at the Student Leadership Symposium.
Senior Student Aredith Janarth (Fr 2024) speaking with students at the Student Leadership Symposium.
Operations Update
St Andrew’s College has always taken pride in our operational success, and our continued excellence in every avenue of operations demonstrates the College’s commitment to enhancing the residential student experience.
As we celebrate our 150th Anniversary of residential student life at St Andrew’s College, we have the chance to reflect on how the operational side of St Andrew’s College has expanded, developed and continued to flourish. From accommodating seven students in 1876, the College has grown its capabilities to house almost four hundred students this year and a full calendar of student activities and events. This expansion has involved decades of improvements, and I am particularly proud of the most recent updates we have managed to achieve.
Formal Dinners
A new standard at Formal Dinners has made them a highlight of this semester and it has been wonderful to see the Dining Hall full each Wednesday, far surpassing
attendance trends in recent years. From averaging roughly thirty students a few years ago, the number of students attending Formal Dinners has risen to up to 200, with all tables now full. One of the main attractions has been our themed nights, ‘tasting’ popular restaurants around Sydney, such as Totti’s and their iconic Italian cuisine, adding new flavour and variety to our menu.
Servery
Dietary requirements and lifestyles have also changed dramatically since 1876. Behind the scenes in the servery today, the catering staff has been working closely with the Student Food Committee to offer nutritious options throughout the day and cater to a greater variety of dietary needs. From Bánh mì rolls to Fish Bowls, lunch times in the Dining Hall have also seen increased interest and enthusiasm.
The
Junior Common Room Café
Our JCR café has been a continued success, offering a significant upgrade to the collegiate experience over the past year. With coffees and drinks served by student baristas
from Monday to Friday, and free coffees and treats offered to support students during Stuvac season, the café has become a dynamic part of the daily routine of St Andrew’s life.
Community Events
Our community events remain an exceptional drawcard for our parents and alumni community. This year we have already hosted several significant and celebrated occasions, from our Mother’s Day Lunch, Parents’ Cocktail Evening, to our annual University & Schools Dinner, which was once again an eminent highlight in our calendar.
I would like to acknowledge the incredible work of our Operations staff and in particular the kitchen team for their daily efforts, which are instrumental in shaping a space that honours tradition while embracing the future of life at St Andrew’s. These transformations not only enhance the practical experience of students but also foster a stronger sense of community and belonging among students, alumni, and staff alike.
Our recent operational upgrades are a testament to the College’s dedication to providing a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere, essential to the student experience at a residential college, and we look forward with anticipation to see how we can continue to offer a thriving, vibrant collegiate experience to our wonderful students.
Bonnie Dixon Director of Operations, Finance and People
Canapes served at last year’s Final Formal Dinner. Students at the Junior Common Room Cafe.
High Table for the First Formal Dinner of the year. Kitchen staffer, Zakir, at our First Formal Dinner.
Students in the servery.
Opposite page: Tables set for our 2026 University and Schools Dinner. This page, top to bottom: Serving staff preparing for the First Formal Dinner of the year after Matriculation.
Education Report
This past semester has been one of renewed energy and academic ambition within the Education Department. Across tutorials, language programs, short courses, and new scholarly and professional initiatives, our students have embraced opportunities to deepen their learning, broaden their skills, and engage meaningfully with the intellectual life of the College.
Drew’s Tutorials
The tutorial program remains the beating heart of education at St Andrew’s as it enables students to continue and extend their university learning in an intimate, intellectually vibrant College setting. This semester saw our highest ever participation, driven in part by early enrolment that allowed most tutorials to commence in week two. Establishing this rhythm from the outset helped tutorials become a natural part of students’ weekly study routines.
Analysis by Callum Beaton, our Data Officer, continues to demonstrate a clear correlation between strong tutorial attendance and academic performance. A number of our students have won academic prizes and come top in their subject cohort from last year’s performance. Yet the value of the program extends beyond metrics. Tutorials cultivate the social and intellectual confidence that comes from testing ideas in conversation and learning collaboratively. These are skills that shape students long after they leave College.
AUSLAN Course
The College language program continues to provide students with specialised language tuition in an increasing range of languages. Alongside our established offerings in French, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese and Japanese, this semester saw the introduction of a course in Australian Sign Language (AUSLAN).
Led by Young Joo, a Deaf instructor
from Signpedia, the course not only taught students the basics of communicating in AUSLAN but also developed their understanding of the richness of Deaf history, culture and community. The course culminated in a guided visit to the Institute Building at the University of Sydney, the site of Australia’s first school for the Deaf. The students who participated were ebullient in their praise for the course and are eager to continue their studies in the language next semester. The enthusiasm surrounding AUSLAN has added a new dimension to the College’s commitment to inclusive and culturally engaged education.
BLUE & WHITE
SCR Talks
As part of the revitalisation of Formal Dinners this year, we introduced a series of after-dinner talks in the Senior Common Room, delivered by our Faculty Heads. All are active researchers, and these sessions offered students an exciting opportunity to hear firsthand about the cuttingedge scholarship being conducted by their own tutors and academic mentors. The inaugural SCR talk was delivered by Dr Rachel Killean (Head of Law) who spoke eloquently about her award-winning research into the ecological harms of mass conflict and the legal frameworks needed to address them. From there, topics ranged widely across the fields of medicine, engineering, literature, music, and commerce. In a moment of happy synergy, the final talk from Dr Reyne Pullen (Head of Science) explored the pedagogical potential of sign language for teaching Chemistry. This talk gave our emerging cohort of AUSLAN students the chance to contribute their own insights and see their new skills applied in unexpected ways.
Short Courses
Our semester one program of short courses has been expanded and renewed under the leadership of Ryan Cheng (Head of Business). This semester saw the launch of “Advanced Negotiations,” building on last semester’s hugely popular “Negotiations” course, as well as the refreshed and relaunched “Leadership in Practice.” Both courses emphasise practical and interactive case studies that engage students in the practice of critical thinking and creative problem solving from week one. Leadership in Practice proved so popular that it will run again in Semester Two to accommodate demand. By the time this report reaches readers, a new cohort of students will also have completed “Leaders in Jurisprudence,” now a staple of the College calendar. This course, led by the Honourable Justice Ian Jackman (Fr 1981), continues to engage students in the philosophical frameworks and seminal scholarship of legal theory.
Professional Development and Learning
This semester also saw a strong focus on professional development and giving students the chance to learn from people further along in their careers. These opportunities help students connect their academic work with the realities of different industries and give them a clearer sense of the paths available to them. Our series of Professional Development Industry Nights brought students together with alumni working across a range of fields. This semester’s events focused on law, finance, and engineering, and also featured representatives from the University of Sydney Business School’s research program. These evenings offered students candid insights into career pathways and the evolving landscape of each profession. For many, the chance to speak informally with alumni proved invaluable in shaping their own aspirations.
We were also privileged to host a breakfast fireside conversation with Joe Schmidt, Head Coach of the Wallabies. His engaging discussion of team culture and decision making in high pressure environments resonated strongly with students and offered a new perspective on professional life and leadership. Together, these events added an important dimension to the semester’s academic program, giving students access to the experience and insight of those already navigating the worlds they hope to enter.
Dr Matthew Sharp Senior Tutor
Opposite page:
Young Joo, a Deaf instructor from Signpedia, leading the AUSLAN Course.
Below:
Current student Beau Morrison (Fr 2024) hosts a Sports for Leadership discussion with Joe Schmidt, Head Coach of the Wallabies, in the JCR.
This page: Head of Creative Arts & Head of Music, Liam Mulligan, giving an SCR Talk.
University & Schools Dinner
On Wednesday 13 May, St Andrew’s College was delighted to welcome close to 80 students, benefactors, and members of the College community to our annual University & Schools Chapel Service & Dinner to celebrate the exceptional academic efforts and achievements of our students over the past year.
The evening commenced with a chapel service led by Reverend Dr Gareth Clayton OAM and a performance of “Libertango” by St Andrew’s College Chamber Choir, followed by pre-dinner drinks and canapés in our newly upgraded Junior Common Room. Guests were then welcomed into the Dining Hall to enjoy a threecourse meal with a traditional Ode to Haggis performance by Annabelle King (Fr 2024), and a musical performance by Claire Oslington (Fr 2024).
The night concluded with toasts to the College and University by Senior Student, Aredith Janarth (Fr 2024), and the Chair of Council, Jeremy Hoffmann (Fr 2003), followed by The University’s Reply, given by our special guest, University of Sydney Chancellor, David Thodey AO FTSE, who presented this year’s scholarships and prizes alongside Alice Draffin, our Vice Principal and Director of Student Life.
Finally, congratulations to Lily Webster (Fr 2023), recipient of the prestigious St Andrew’s College Medal for 2025, recognising her exceptional performance as the highest achieving resident student at College last year.
The occasion provided a wonderful opportunity to recognise the achievements of our students and acknowledge the generosity of the benefactors whose support continues to enrich life at the College.
Above:
Guests at our annual University & Schools Dinner.
Below: Annabelle King (Fr 2024) performing the Ode to Haggis.
Our University Medalists
St Andrew’s College is also proud to recognise Jules Vahl (Fr 2021) and Ailish Barry (Fr 2022) and their outstanding achievement as University Medalists for 2025. Few institutions provide a better environment for the pursuit of academic achievement than university colleges and the community of intelligent and ambitious young people that they house, and Jules and Ailish have exemplified this over the past few years.
Jules Vahl (Fr 2021) was awarded the University Medal for his Bachelor of Arts and Law (Honours) degree at the University of Sydney, receiving firstclass honours and the Medal for his honours thesis on Latin literature. Having begun life at College as a St Andrew’s Scholar, Jules has been an active part of our community during his years of residence, including as an accomplished violinist and College Tutor.
After earning the title of St Andrew’s College Medalist in 2024, Ailish Barry (Fr 2022) set her sights on a Doctor of Medicine at the University of Sydney in 2025, and was rewarded with a Medal for her first year.
We look forward with anticipation to see what they both achieve in 2026.
Below:
University Medalist, Ailish Barry (Fr 2022) receiving her St Andrew’s College Medalist award from University of Sydney Chancellor David Thodey AO FTSE at last year’s University & Schools Dinner.
Right:
Jules Vahl (Fr 2021) performing in the Chapel at his recital in 2025.
High Achievers Honour Roll
We extend our congratulations to the following St Andrew’s College students and recent alumni who achieved exceptional academic results in 2025:
St Andrew’s College
Medalist
Lily Webster
University Medalists
Ailish Barry and Jules Vahl
High Distinction Average
Ailish Barry
Matilda Damian
Mirren Fitzgerald
Marcel Forrer
Riley Gallagher-Long
Distinction Average
Ingrid Alexandra
Lola Ankcorn
Ella Bailey
Finlay Ball
Verona Bates
Lottie Benbow
Amelia Blake
Zoe Bremner
Alice Carraro
Matilda Chadwick
Scarlett Chandler
Finlay Chandler
Elke Chaplin
Junho Cho
John Coleman
William Constable
Rory Cope
Ellie Craven
Edward Cropper
Sebastian Crozier
Amelia Daunt
Una Dennehy
Maksym Derlytsia
Hudson Eichorn
Max Fallon
James Farrington
Lucia Ferguson
Charlotte Hartin
William Haseler
Elijah Kanganas
Jonas Karal
Saxon Krause
Ashley Fung
Atlanta Gervasoni
Tom Gloster
Lauren Goldie
Lily Graham
Cameron Grigg
Jessica Gunning
Jock Harding
Nicholas Harris
Marco Hartono
Thomas Hawkins
Alex Hayes
Gus Heerey
Natasha Herbert
James Hewish
Zoe Hill
Jenny Hill
Lila Horne
Kevin Hua
Hazel Jackman
Anika Jackson
Sofia Kooner
Rachel Koshy
Sebastian Le Hei
Kiahn Ladkin
Jessica Ledger
Maya Levin
Elaine Li
Eyad Muhmood
Stephanie Nguyen
Claire Oslington
Charlotte Peters
Edie Staniforth
Matilda Lund
Flynn MacGregor
Max MacLachlan
Lili MacPherson
Sophia Massaro
Lizzie Matusko
Clara McDonald
Bearte McDonald
Emma McDonald
Charlie McLaren
Imogen McMahon
Millie McMurtrie
Daniel McSweeny
Imogen Menzies
Oliver Mezrani
Chloe Middleton
Carissa Miltiadou
Henry Mitchell
Joshua Mortensen
Nicholas Neil
Chloe Nel
Ethan Nel
Xavier Nicholas
Jess Nipperess
Zoe Nunn
Will Ormond
William Truman
Jules Vahl
Jenna Veal
Lily Webster
Luca Wynn
Amanda Yu
Miriam Palazzi
Maleka Parolin
Scarlett Pearce
Oleksandra Petukhova
Jamie Podmore Taylor
Jack Potier
Jess Quilter-Jones
Joe Quilty
Heidi Raine
Zoltan Reed
Olive Reynolds
Finn Robert
Lily Robson
Angus Rowe
Phoebe Rowntree
Sienna Rusling
Indira Sargent
Lucy Scammell
Yvette Scatchard
Rosie Schmidt
Sarah Scott
Mia Seisun
Nathan Sewart
Jake Smith
Fletch Smith
Joshua Spark
Claudia Stiertzel
Georgina Stitt
Millie Taylor
Charlotte Tregonning
Pascal Uxo Williams
Sophie Van Kerkwijk
Beatrice Vanasek
Phoebe Vass
George Verco
Austin Wallace
Jeffrey Warren
Jack Webb
Emilie Rose
Westlake-O’Dwyer
Angus Wickham
Shalisa
Wijeyawardena
Lucy Williams
Alice Wilson
Madeline Windeyer
Kenya Woodborne
Hamish Wright
Gianrico Wynn
Sophie Yabsley
Olivia Zhu
2026 Senior Scholars Report
The 2026 Senior Scholars at St Andrew’s College are leading a diverse range of initiatives across entrepreneurship, education, finance, sustainability, and community dialogue. Together, these projects reflect creativity, strong student engagement, and a shared commitment to enriching College life.
Tessa
Bruin
Student Life Manager & Head of Sport SENIOR
Androvation
Maya Levin (Fr 2023)
First launched in 2017, Androvation has since evolved from a weekend program into a two-semester entrepreneurship initiative guiding students from idea generation to pitch presentation. Through workshops, panels, and mentorship, students build startup skills, engage with alumni, and develop practical concepts. Selected teams progress to an intensive development phase with speed mentoring, mock pitches, and expert feedback, culminating in a Power Pitch Night where finalists present to industry leaders and alumni for the chance to secure seed funding.
We Need to Talk (WNTT)
Sam Singleton (Fr 2024)
We Need To Talk continues to foster thoughtful, respectful discussion on complex social and cultural issues. With recent topics including the Manosphere and foreign influence and regime change in Iran, participation is at an all-time high, reflecting strong student engagement and Sam’s leadership.
Drew’s Community Garden
Indira Sargent (Fr 2024)
Drew’s Community Garden is a new, student-led herb and community garden providing fresh herbs for the dining hall while creating a welcoming green space. Designed to be low-cost and low-maintenance, it promotes collaboration, wellbeing, and sustainability through composting and circular food practices. Managed on a light rotating roster, the garden is intended to become a lasting feature of College life.
Peer Academic Support Program
Bearte McDonald (Fr 2024) & Clara McDonald (Fr 2024)
This new peer mentoring initiative pairs senior students with junior peers to provide academic guidance and pastoral support, particularly in demanding degrees. To date, 37 mentors have been matched with small groups of freshers, with high engagement across the cohort and further refinements planned for second semester.
Andronomics
Patrick McDonnell (Fr 2023)
Andronomics (formerly Moneyminds) strengthens financial literacy among students, particularly those outside commerce-related degrees. Delivered as a series of themed sessions across the year, the program explores key aspects of personal and practical finance through accessible discussion and interactive activities. Informed by Pat’s professional experience in wealth management, Andronomics combines real-world insight with academic foundations to equip students with the confidence to engage with their financial futures.
Professional Development Program
The 2026 St Andrew’s College Professional Development Program is in full swing, offering students meaningful guidance and insight as they consider their future university and career pathways, supported by the generosity of Drew’s alumni and parents. To date, four sessions have been delivered, each designed to create valuable networking opportunities while supporting students’ personal and professional growth.
The Semester 1 sessions were broad in scope, aiming to provide foundational guidance across key fields including finance and investment banking, engineering, law, and entrepreneurship. As we move into Semester 2, the focus will shift towards more specialised and niche sessions, ensuring the program reflects the diverse pathways of our students. The PDP formats have been adapted to suit both the audience and number of participating alumni.
The first session, centred on investment banking, took the form of a networking event, enabling students to engage directly with alumni and participate in meaningful, careerfocused conversations.
The Engineering session adopted a more intimate format, featuring David Hewish (Fr 1983) in a panel-style discussion. The session allowed students to ask questions and gain valuable insights, supported by questions curated and facilitated by the Alumni Committee.
Similarly, the Law session mirrored the networking format of the finance event, giving students the opportunity to connect with alumni and engage in insightful discussions. Student feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the profound impact of the experiences shared by alumni.
Running alongside the Law session was a Start-Up event led by Maya Levin (Fr 2023), which provided students with exposure to the realities of launching and managing their own businesses, including both the challenges and opportunities involved.
We extend our sincere thanks to the alumni and parents who generously dedicate their time to return to Drew’s and contribute to our community. Their support is deeply valued by students, and your involvement plays an essential role in building their confidence and enriching the overall college experience.
Ashley
Fung (Fr 2024) Alumni Secretary 2026
Above:
Students, parents and alumni enjoying our Professional Development evening.
Palladian Report
The Palladian campaign is off to a roaring start in 2026! Drew’s is currently in the lead on 10 points, thanks to the hard work and dedication of all our competitors and secretaries.
The year’s success began with the Solo Instrumental competition, where Xavier Cardozo (Fr 2024) took home second place with his performance of Tansman’s Sonatine on the bassoon. Alex Caban (Fr 2025) placed highly commended, playing David’s Trombone Concertino Mvt 3 on the fiddle. The pair were supported by Instrumental Secretary, James Robertson (Fr 2025).
In the Solo Vocal competition, last year’s Secretary, Matilda Chadwick (Fr 2023) placed second, performing That’s Life from SMASH, accompanied by alumnus
Sterling Nasa (Fr 2023). I had the privilege of performing Nothing You Can Take From Me alongside an accompanying band including Luc Do (Fr 2024) on guitar, Finn Robert (Fr 2024) on drums, Alex Caban on fiddle and Ben MacDonald (Fr 2024) on double bass, securing first place for Drew’s in the event!
We then moved on to the Oration competition, led by Oration Secretary Kevin Hua (Fr 2025). Marlena Pasvolsky (Fr 2026) and Sophia Huckel (Fr 2026) represented Drew’s, with Sophia receiving second place after 90 minutes of deliberation from the judges!
The second-year dance secretaries led the Dance competition, which held electric energy. Small Dance performed Sports Car, led by Kate Dyer (Fr 2025) and Sophie Van Kerkwijk (Fr 2025) and Big Dance performed a Michael Jackson mashup, led by Tilly Quigley (Fr 2025) and Courtney Ellis (Fr 2025).
Solo Drama, the final Palladian event of the semester, saw success with Nicholas Cradock (Fr 2024) placing third and Marlena Pasvolsky (Fr 2026) earning highly commended. Guided by Drama Secretary, Hazel Jackman (Fr 2025), the highly contrasting pieces gained Drew’s our final points to close off the semester in first place.
I am so proud of the incredible passion and talent we have seen in Semester One and can’t wait to see what Drew’s can do in Semester Two to bring the Palladian Cup home outright, after tying with Sancta Sophia last year.
Claire Oslington (Fr 2024) Cultural Secretary 2026
Above:
Matilda Chadwick (Fr 2023) performing ‘That’s Life’ from SMASH.
Below: Nicholas Cradock (Fr 2024) performing in the Solo Drama.
Rawson Report
The Rawson sporting competition this semester has been a testament to the commitment and toughness of every Androvian and the strong support across the aisle. Each and every Rawson team has fought until the very end and should be extremely proud of their efforts, as we all are of them. At the conclusion of Semester One, we sit in second place, closely behind first.
The Rawson campaign started with Cricket, where we finished equal third with Wesley, while St John’s and St Paul’s shared first place. The campaign began with an unbelievably close loss to St John’s, which went down to the wire in the last over. Jock MacCallum (Fr 2024) produced an extraordinary performance, hitting 65 off 18 balls, but John’s edged ahead to win by 14 runs. This was followed by a tough loss against St Paul’s, though Aarush Mahajan (Fr 2026) produced an incredible 94 not out. Finally, a dominant performance against Wesley saw Drew’s win by eight wickets, with a strong performance from Fraser Pandit (Fr 2026).
Next was the Swimming and Diving Carnival, where St Andrew’s took home second place, with only one point separating first and second. It was a massive team effort, with many swimmers competing across multiple
events. A special performance came from William Mackay (Fr 2026), who swam in four individual events and two relays, finishing in high positions across all of them. Another mention goes to Swimming Captain Cash Cratchley (Fr 2025), who performed strongly and led the team with courage and heart.
Rugby was the next campaign, starting well with a strong 40–7 win over St Paul’s on home turf, with standout performances from Hugh Green (Fr 2024), who scored two tries, and Sam Sharman (Fr 2024), while Henrick Conick (Fr 2025) kicked five conversions. A win against Wesley followed, setting up another Rawson Rugby Grand Final against St John’s College at Sydney Uni’s main oval. It was an extremely close game between two very talented sides, 19–7 at halftime, with St John’s just pulling away at the end to win 45–28. It was an excellent demonstration of St Andrew’s effort and grit, with massive performances from Rugby Captain Louis Fenwicke (Fr 2025) and Toby Brial (Fr 2025), and a stand-out try from Dane Mitchell (Fr 2026).
Finally, the last Rawson sport of the semester was Rowing. Hard work and long hours of training led the way for our Drew’s rowing team. They performed extremely well
and displayed classic St Andrew’s toughness, coming in a close second to St John’s. Special mention to Rowing Captains Jeff Warren (Fr 2025) and Sam Stewart (Fr 2026).
Turning towards Semester Two, it is an exciting period ahead, with Rawson athletes set to continue giving their all. With Soccer, Basketball, Tennis and Athletics all very bright prospects, and Drew’s snapping at the heels of first place, Semester Two will be an unmissable sporting time.
John Coleman (Fr 2024) Rawson Secretary 2026
Opposite page: The Rawson Rugby Team.
Below:
The Rawson Rowing Team.
This page: Senior Student Aredith Janarth (Fr 2024) and Hugh Taylor (Fr 2026) during the Rawson Cricket competition.
BLUE & WHITE
Rosebowl Report
Semester One has been a strong start to the Rosebowl campaign, with St Andrew’s women producing consistent results across all sports so far. The College has won every Rosebowl event to date and currently sits in first place on 34 points, ahead of St Paul’s in second on 20.
The semester began with Netball, led by Netball Secretary Alexandra Wright (Fr 2025). The team had a dominant campaign, with strong performances across all games and an exciting amount of talent coming through from the firstyear cohort. The depth of the squad was clear, with players combining well on court and representing the College with energy and confidence. Their efforts secured an excellent first-place finish for St Andrew’s.
Next came the Swimming Carnival, led by Swimming Secretary Amelia Blake (Fr 2025). The Rosebowl team put together another impressive performance, with strong individual swims and relay results contributing to another win for the semester. It was a great evening in the pool, with plenty of support from the team and a result that reflected the strength of Andrew’s swimming.
Tennis followed, with Tennis Secretary Renee Zhang (Fr 2025) guiding the
team to a tied first-place finish. The competition was closely contested, but the Andrew’s team remained composed and produced a strong overall result. It was a great reflection of both the talent in the team and the positive spirit shown across the competition.
The semester continued with Rowing, led by Rowing Secretary Lucy Smith (Fr 2025). After months of training in the lead-up, the crew delivered a dominant performance on the water, securing first place in the 2000m race with a time of 7:23, ahead of St Paul’s in second on 7:34. It was a well-earned result and a proud moment for everyone involved.
Overall, Semester One has been an excellent one for Rosebowl sport, with St Andrew’s currently leading the competition after a clean sweep of
events so far. The success this semester is a credit to all athletes involved, the leadership of our sport secretaries, and the support from the wider College community.
Congratulations to everyone who has contributed to such a strong start to the year. We look forward to carrying this momentum into Semester Two and continuing to represent St Andrew’s with pride.
Zoe Bremner (Fr 2024) Rosebowl Secretary 2026
Opposite page: The Rosebowl Tennis team.
Above: Lily Graham (Fr 2025) playing for the Rugby 7’s against St Paul’s College.
Below: The Rosebowl Rowing Team.
Days at Drew’s
Morning
The light wakes you before anything else.
I lie still and listen. Sandstone walls, pipes knocking, the hush of a building that has held a thousand mornings before this one. Students have dressed in rooms like this since 1876. Different faces, different centuries, the same light through the same windows.
Back home in South Australia, mornings smelled of dry grass and open sky. Nobody handed you a sense of belonging. You just had one. Here, belonging is something older than any of us. It was built into the stone long before we arrived, and it will remain long after we leave. You don’t find it so much as grow into it, slowly, across seasons and years.
And one morning you wake, and the place is no longer somewhere you live. It is something you carry.
Kevin Hua (Fr 2025)
Midday
After class, I take my usual walk through the university, back to the familiar gates of St Andrew’s.
Like clockwork, I arrive in time for my favourite part of the day: Lunch. I’m clearly not alone in this, as by midday the dining hall is already filling fast. Friends cluster around tables, athletes discuss upcoming events, while others, like myself, join the line for food.
Once my plate is filled, I sit beside friends and we talk over our day. It is here, around a shared table, that the Drew’s ethos of community is really shown. Just as in Plato’s Symposium, I have forged some of my strongest connections and richest intellectual discussions through the simple ritual of shared lunch.
Clara McDonald (Fr 2024)
Midnight
The flood lights shutter off and the moon is left hanging alone above the oval, flushing the sandstone ochre.
Down the hall, I hear voices. Hushed and layered. Doors opening and closing on soft laughter. These sounds are light with familiarity, warm and easy, and with them the whole building seems to sigh.
Soon, there is only quiet punctuated by the occasional cry of a bat or whir of an engine. And I now find myself alone with my reflection in the window and the bright white light of my laptop, crested by the swollen moon. Having broken through the canopy, it is carried atop the swaying limbs of dark gums.
Mia Seisun (Fr 2023)
IN JANE’S FOOTSTEPS
Hannah Steel (Fr 2016) first met her hero, Jane Goodall, at a talk in Sydney. It was Jane’s encouraging words, and a lifelong love of apes, that led Hannah on an extraordinary path to a Chimpanzee sanctuary in the remote Mbargue forest of Cameroon.
If you would like to support the Sanaga Yong Chimpanzee Rescue Sanctuary and help provide veterinary care to the 80 chimpanzees Hannah treats, visit: https://gofund.me/3ae60c8ff
Above: Hannah at the Pan-African Sanctuary Alliance in Cameroon. Opposite page: Hannah performing dental work. The clinic in Cameroon.
I grew up in the English countryside, surrounded by dogs, cats, horses, cows and everything in between. When I was eight, Healey, our family cat, was diagnosed with diabetes. My parents were squeamish around needles, so I volunteered to administer her daily insulin injections. I subsequently told my parents that when I grew up, I wanted to be a vet. Yet unlike many 8-year-old girls – my passion fuelled by Jane Goodall videos and regular visits to a sanctuary in southwest England named Monkey World – I wanted to work with great apes: orangutans, bonobos, chimpanzees and gorillas. I decided that I would study veterinary medicine and apply my veterinary skills to species conservation.
I completed high school in Perth, Western Australia, and received an offer to study veterinary medicine at the University of Sydney. I was lucky enough to be offered a full scholarship to St Andrew’s as a St Andrew’s Scholar, which meant that I could spend far more time studying and gaining experience in the conservation field. Throughout the six-year veterinary degree I tried to gain as much wildlife and conservation experience as possible. I even kept up my French language skills, just in case one day a job opportunity came up in a French-speaking part of Africa.
chimpanzees. Dr Sheri interviewed me on Zoom and warned me that the job wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. In fact, there would be very little sunshine, a lot of rain, and a high risk of tropical disease. And, as the sanctuary was in Cameroon, I would have to communicate solely in French.
It was all very scary, but it was my dream job. In April 2024, I landed in Yaoundé, Cameroon, as Sanaga-Yong’s new vet. As I write this, I am four months into my second stint at Sanaga-Yong Chimpanzee Rescue and am now both the onsite veterinarian and the interim sanctuary manager. The sanctuary is in the remote Mbargue forest, 7 hours away from the capital city Yaoundé. There’s no phone signal in the forest so contact with the outside world is minimal, and no electricity, so no lights, no fridge, no Wi-Fi. There’s also no running water, so to shower, I use a bucket of water and a cup. When I perform surgery in the vet clinic, I use a headtorch as my surgery light and sterilise surgical gear in a pressure cooker on a gas stovetop. The lowest lows I’ve had have been the two times I had malaria – the first time, I lost vision for twelve hours, and the second time I lost 8kg.
Over and over again, people told me that working with wildlife, especially endangered species like chimpanzees, would be nearly impossible – I’d have to settle for working in a zoo. The only one who took a different view was my hero, Jane Goodall. When I met her after a talk in Sydney, she told me that when she first went to study chimps in Africa, her only qualification was knowing how to type. Her opinion, based on that experience, was that nothing is impossible.
As it turned out, I spent two great years working as a mixed practice vet in rural New South Wales. Everything was going well, until an unfortunate encounter with a sheep left me requiring reconstructive surgery on my hand. On a whim, I began researching primate sanctuaries in Africa. I found PASA, the Pan-African Sanctuary Alliance, which lists all of the Jane Goodall-endorsed ethical primate sanctuaries in Africa, and I wrote to every single one. Within twenty-four hours I received a reply from Dr Sheri Speede, the founder and director of the Sanaga-Yong Chimpanzee Rescue in Cameroon. Cameroon is home to wild chimpanzees, but their numbers are rapidly declining due to habitat loss, poaching for bushmeat, and the capture and sale of babies for the illegal pet and zoo trade. Sanaga-Yong offers refuge to all these chimps in large, forested enclosures in the Mbargue forest, which, thanks to its remoteness, also remains home to a substantial population of wild
In my second week at Sanaga-Yong, one of the female chimps, Berschi, became critically unwell. I’d never done a solo exploratory laparotomy on any species, let alone a critically endangered chimpanzee, but I was Berschi’s only hope that night, so I had to drink some concrete and get through it. I discovered an area of her bowel being strangulated by fibrous scar tissue and was happily able to resolve the problem. Miraculously, Berschi lived, and she and I became close friends. I slept with her at night and held her hand, and one night, when the sleep deprivation and stress got the better of me, she wiped away my tears. Somehow, despite me having to inject her every day with medication, she seemed to realise she could trust me. It’s the emotional bonds - between chimpanzees, and between chimpanzees and humans – that have represented the most profound experience of my time at Sanaga-Yong.
I feel lucky to have found my dream job at 28. When I’m not in Cameroon, I’m based in Launceston, Tasmania, and work as a locum veterinarian, in between fundraising events and presentations for Sanaga-Yong. I plan to return to Cameroon for 3-6 months each year on a rotating basis. With all of the problems in the world, it’s hard to get people to care about conservation, and unfortunately, it’s not as simple as just providing lifelong sanctuary to the victims of the bushmeat and illegal pet trades. Chimpanzees are like 98.8% us – they’re our kindred beings. Which is why I believe we should care.
Tom Lyford (Fr 2008)
The friendships you make at residential college tend to be the ones that last. Hailing from a small town in the Hunter region of NSW, Tom Lyford was surprised to find that St Andrew’s College offered far more than just accommodation when he arrived on campus. However, not unlike many alumni, Tom walked out the door on his last day at College with a budding relationship with his wife, Penny Lyford (Fr 2007), and an abundance of lifelong friends. Now working as a doctor in Newcastle with a growing family, and despite the challenges of distance and time, Tom still counts the connections he made at College as strong as ever.
You grew up in Gloucester — for people who don’t know it, how would you describe the place and what it was like to grow up there?
Gloucester was and is a very small farming town of about 3500 people. Everyone knew everyone and it was a fairly free-range childhood with the Barrington River as our playground. It was a typical small town with one high school and five pubs, but there was ample space to explore. I had some great formative experiences like working at the hardware shop and the outdoor adventure centre, whilst getting involved in any sport available in the town.
What was the path to St Andrew’s for a kid from a state school in regional NSW? Was it your idea, or did someone push you toward it?
I didn’t know St Andrew’s existed at the time. I applied after speaking with a friend who went to school in Sydney, and I assumed it was simply a residential building where I could eat and sleep; I was pleasantly surprised when it was much more than that.
Do you remember arriving at Drew’s for the first time? What was that like — walking into this sandstone college from a town of a couple of thousand people?
I will never forget arriving for my interview, the impact of the sandstone building itself was remarkable, particularly after attending a school constructed mostly of demountable classrooms. I arrived while the current students were forming a victory tunnel at the front door of Main to celebrate one of the sporting teams. I had to unceremoniously shuffle up the middle of the tunnel and into the main building to meet with Dr Porges, I’m sure to the great amusement of the students forming the tunnel – but it sparked a curiosity as to what this place was all about.
Who are the Drew’s people still in your life, and what do those friendships mean to you now?
My college friendships are all incredibly close, and have endured through relocations overseas, demanding careers and having families. As Penny is also a Drew’s alumni, our friendships span across a few year groups which is quite special, so it is a fairly long list of people still in our lives; some we wish we could see more. There is a huge amount of respect, loyalty and support that is shared, even when it is too long between catch ups. They have all done extraordinary things, and it’s been great to watch that evolve from our university days
You met Penny at College — we’d love to hear that story. How did it happen, and what role did Drew’s play?
The narrative has probably changed a bit as time has passed, but naturally, meeting Penny is a standout memory. Penny started the year before me, so it wasn’t a
straight road to capturing her attention as a fresher. It was over a year into college, as we had first become friends over that time. A few extended hours in the dining hall or in the glen chatting, some Highlander parties, and some lingering at ‘buffet’ for a chance encounter shifted us into something more serious. It has been about 18 years, two kids and a dog later; we have quite a few friends with a similar story, so we credit the Drew’s environment for providing that unique opportunity for meaningful quality time and space.
What’s a memory from your college years that still makes you smile — the kind of story you still tell?
The first things that come to mind are not the VD’s or big celebrations and wins. I find myself reflecting on memories that cemented friendships and brought us together- I recall a particular failed schnitzel eating competition for example which continues to be brought up amongst my group of friends to this day.
Looking back, what did Drew’s give you that you didn’t expect when you arrived?
I was a small-town kid, and Drew’s really shifted my perspective in many ways. I was inspired by those around me, everyone was doing something different or had different skills and interests, which just broadened the way I envisioned my own future. This definitely inspired me to pursue a career in medicine. I also couldn’t have imagined meeting a better group of lifelong friends.
You spent around six years in Wagga — as a junior doctor, in the ED and as a registrar. Was that a deliberate choice to go regional?
Growing up as the son of a doctor in a small community likely influenced the decision to move to a regional town, and it felt like a natural fit for that time in our lives. I was looking for a balance of an interesting, varied career, and a lifestyle that was a slower pace. The great thing about rural medicine is the sense of community amongst both the medical fraternity as well as with your patients. There is a closeness amongst rural medical colleagues that is committed, supportive and hard to replicate. I am still running into people with a shared connection to the medical community in Wagga.
Emergency medicine alongside general practice training is a fairly intense combination. What was that period like?
I had planned to undertake a rural proceduralist program in emergency medicine and general practice; however, COVID hit at a time when I was balancing the two, which
became challenging. The intensity of those few years firmed up my desire to move solely into general practice. Is Newcastle home now? What does life look like for you and Penny beyond the clinic?
Newcastle is most definitely home. It has a great regional community feel, with touches of city life, and only seems to be getting better the longer we are here. Pen and I are surrounded by great friends and live close to the beach. We bike ride, explore the local Glenrock national park and surrounding beaches and get back to Gloucester when we can. We are in the thick of raising a 6 and 4-year-old and are busy supporting their long list of activities and interests.
What would you say to a current St Andrew’s resident — especially one who’s come from a country town or a non-traditional background — about what’s possible?
I would say that someone who has arrived at Drew’s from the country and has made it this far, will already be embracing the opportunity that Drew’s offers. It can, however, be more daunting or intimidating for rural students, especially if like me, you just haven’t been exposed to the type of education, facilities and experiences that some of the other students have had. It’s important to see that as a strength though and be open to the idea that you really can do something you never thought you would.
What does St Andrew’s still mean to you, all these years on?
I’m incredibly grateful for the years I had at Drew’s, mostly for the lifelong friendships (and marriage), and for those who continue to come out of the woodwork, including our awesome group of Drew’s alumni in Newcastle and the Hunter region.
Scan the QR code to read Tom’s Profile and more on the College’s website.
Opposite page: Tom and his wife, Penny Lyford (Fr 2007).
Grace Shipway (Fr 2016)
By day, Grace Shipway is a Senior Property Manager at Charter Hall. By weekend, she charters a much more temperamental environment - the ocean. Born into a family of sailors, Grace knew from a young age that she would one day be aboard a boat on one of the most difficult yacht races in the world, the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race - and what better yacht to compete on than Love and War, the race’s three-time winner (once sailed by her father, Peter Shipway). Last year she marked her second Sydney to Hobart Race, steering the yacht across the finishing line in Hobart in a competitive third place, and cementing her place as a seasoned veteran in one of Australia’s most demanding sports.
Can you tell us a little about your path after leaving St Andrew’s – where life has taken you since your time at the College?
Since leaving Drew’s, I’ve spent the past five years working in Commercial Real Estate. Outside of work, I’ve always been drawn to life on the water - from the intensity and camaraderie of surfboat rowing at Palm Beach, to more recently stepping back into the world of yachting on Sydney Harbour.
How did you come to competitive offshore sailing, and what drew you to the Rolex Sydney to Hobart specifically?
I came to competitive offshore sailing somewhat organically. What started with my Dad pushing me off a beach in Vaucluse in a dinghy when I was five gradually evolved into yacht racing and, eventually, offshore sailing. The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race has such an iconic status - not just within sailing, but in Australian sport more broadly. It’s one of those events I remember watching every Boxing Day from as early as I can remember, always thinking, “One day, that’ll be me.”
The combination of endurance, teamwork, & strategy makes
it unlike any other sporting experience I’ve had, which is what ultimately drew me to it. And with my Dad having completed 31 Hobarts himself, I figured I’d give it a shot… not to mention the party on arrival – that’s pretty good too!
What was the experience of the race like – the conditions, the crew, the moments that stood out?
I remember dialling into the official weather briefing before the Boxing Day start, where the meteorologist outlined some fairly intense conditions for at least the first 48 hours: a 25+ knot southerly with waves forecast to exceed three metres. As a first-timer, I was definitely nervous. But the moment I stepped aboard Love and War, I immediately felt reassured by the experience and calmness of the crew around me.
I was sailing with 10 other crew whose combined Hobart experience totalled more than 150 races, so I knew I was in very safe hands. That level of experience, teamwork and composure under pressure was incredible to witness firsthand. The boys definitely looked after me!
Heading into those conditions was intense from the outset. As we turned right out of Sydney Heads and pointed south towards Hobart, I knew we were in for a serious few days. Waves were crashing over the bow as we pushed through a strengthening southerly, and life onboard quickly settled into survival mode. The crew was split into two watches, rotating three hours on and three hours off for most of the race - a routine that sounds manageable on paper, but feels very different when you’re cold, wet and constantly being thrown around offshore. Even going to the toilet was an absolute mission! (sorry for the TMI).
One of the moments that stands out most was finally sighting Hobart on day four. After 4 days at sea, minimal sleep, seasickness, surviving the cold, and such demanding weather conditions, seeing land again - and realising we were actually going to complete the race - was a pretty incredible feeling.
What did the race teach you – about sailing, about yourself, about working under pressure?
The race taught me a lot about composure. In offshore sailing, things rarely go exactly to plan, so you learn very quickly how important adaptability and clear communication are. It reinforced the importance of staying calm under pressure, trusting the people around you, and focusing on the next task rather than becoming overwhelmed by the things to come.
Are there any qualities or experiences from your time at St Andrew’s that you feel shaped who you are today?
Definitely - my time at St Andrew’s College played a big role in shaping who I am today. Being involved in Rosebowl Rowing at College was a standout experience for me. The teamwork required really carries through into a lot of what I do now. It taught me how to show up consistently, back the people around you, and perform as part of a crew rather than as an individual. And of course, Drew’s is never shy of a good celebration on the finish line - that sense of camaraderie is definitely something I still chase!
What’s next for you – on the water or beyond?
I’m still sailing most weekends, always learning and developing through different roles on the boat, and continuing to be mentored and coached by more experienced sailors. It’s a constant process of improvement, which is what keeps me coming back.
Looking ahead, I’ve got a pretty full sailing calendar. This year includes both summer and winter seasons, Hamilton Island Race Week, and then rejoining Love & War for the Cabbage Tree Island Race and the Classic Yacht Regatta, before once again making the journey south for the next Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.
Is there anything you’d like to say to current students who might be considering pushing themselves into new and unfamiliar territory?
Get mentored, put yourself out there, and don’t wait until you feel completely ready - back yourself and go for it. Some of my best experiences come from stepping into situations that initially feel out of reach, and this was certainly one of them. I definitely didn’t think I could achieve it at the time, but that’s often exactly the point. And if you’re thinking of heading south for a Hobart Race… definitely pack plenty of thermals!
Scan the QR code to read Grace’s Profile and more on the College’s website.
Love and War during the 2025 Rolex Sydney
Hobart Race.
Lions’ Lunch: Fifty Years in the Making
There are memberships you seek out, and there are memberships that find you.
The Lions’ Lunch is the latter. You cannot apply. You cannot be nominated. You simply arrive, one day, at the fifty-year mark since you first walked through the gates of St Andrew’s College, and the invitation comes. It is, in every sense, earned.
It marks more than the passage of time. It marks a lifelong bond with a place that has endured.
Introduced by SACAS just two years ago, the Lions’ Lunch already carries the quiet authority of tradition. Perhaps that is because the need it answers is as old as the College itself: a moment for those who have carried St Andrew’s with them for half a century to sit together, look one another in the eye, and recognise what it was that made this place matter, and why it still does.
The second Lions’ Lunch was held on Friday 1 May in the Erickson Room. To be in that room was to witness something difficult to manufacture and impossible to replicate. The conversation did not need warming up. It began immediately, as it only can between people who share something deep and unspoken. A name from the past. A story half-remembered, completed from across the table. Laughter rising from somewhere long ago and filling the room once more.
This is what fifty years of shared belonging looks like. Not nostalgia, exactly. Something richer than that.
Dr Daniel Tyler addressed the group, offering more than an update. He described a College moving forward with clarity, without losing itself. The character of St Andrew’s endures: the same ambition, care, and unmistakable sense of belonging that greeted each person in that room continues to define the experience of students arriving today. The College evolves. Its character does not.
That commitment is most clearly seen in the more than 150 scholarships now offered each year, including the MySydney
Scholarship developed in partnership with the University of Sydney. These scholarships are opening doors for students who might otherwise never have had the opportunity to experience what those gathered already know: that St Andrew’s changes lives.
For many in the room, the opportunity they received was shaped by those who came before them. Increasingly, it will be shaped by those who choose to return that generosity.
And that foundation continues to carry students further than ever before. Fifteen of our current third-year students will undertake study at the University of Cambridge in the coming break. The distance between Newtown and a Cambridge lecture theatre is considerable. And yet, for St Andrew’s students, it is becoming increasingly ordinary. Because this College has never been simply somewhere to live. It is a beginning. A platform. A place that quietly convinces young people they are capable of more than they imagined.
Those that gathered on that Friday know that truth in their bones.
The afternoon offered further reminders that the College lives vibrantly in the present as well as the past. Members of the Rosebowl Tennis Team joined the lunch, bringing with them the energy of a community in full flight. The St Andrew’s Choir opened proceedings with a moving rendition of The Parting Glass, creating a moment of stillness before a single story had been told. It was the right beginning.
SACAS President Don Nicol welcomed the group with the care and steadiness that characterises his leadership, reflecting on the enduring value of remaining connected to a place that has given so much. Because that is the quiet revelation of the Lions’ Lunch. St Andrew’s does not
diminish with distance. It deepens. What this College gives does not fade over time; it reveals itself more fully. The friendships formed in those early years, shaped by proximity, honesty, and the intensity of shared experience, prove their worth over decades. That is not an accident. It is the College doing what it has always done.
Applications reached record levels in 2026, with strong momentum continuing into 2027. It is no surprise. Alumni carry this place with them wherever they go, and what they describe is not a building or an address, but a feeling: of being known, of belonging completely, of having found, at the very beginning of adult life, a community that does not let go.
The third Lions’ Lunch will be held in 2027. If your fifty-year milestone is approaching, mark the date. If it has passed and you have not yet joined us, we would be honoured to welcome you. And if you have already taken your place at the table, bring someone whose time is near.
Tell them the conversation will begin before they sit down. Tell them the stories will return more quickly than expected. Tell them there will be a moment, somewhere between the entrée and the main course, when it becomes entirely clear why this place has stayed with them for so long.
The tradition is two years old. Come and help us build it.
Cameron Torrance Director of Advancement (Philanthropy)
Opposite page:
Lions’ Lunch guests on their way to the 2026 Lions’ luncheon. John Howard (Fr 1965), John Sanders (Fr 1971) and Stephen Higgs AM (Fr 1967). Below:
Guests enjoying the 2026 Lions’ luncheon.
150 Years of Residential Student Life
Although we trace the beginning of St Andrew’s College back to 1867, the corridors of the college did not resonate with the sound of students for another nine years. While the first students were enrolled in 1874, they were all non-residential, as the imposing Main Building, designed by William Munro and built of Pyrmont sandstone, was not ready to welcome residents for another two years.
On 22 July 1876, the present Main Building was officially opened by Rev James Cameron, the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church. Although open, it was only partly habitable. The Principal’s lodging - where the present Principal’s office and the Davidson Law and Spann Libraries are - at the southern end was complete. Students could only be accommodated on the ground floor, between the entrance and the Principal’s lodging, as the north end of the building was incomplete, and floorboards for the upper storeys had not yet been laid.
Their names inscribed in the Annual Roll of Students, the first residential students numbered seven, all of whom would reach some prominence in later life: John Jacob Cohen as an architect, politician and judge, George Charles Waldron, William Lyttle Moore and Samuel John Hamilton Moore as solicitors, Alister Stuart Bowman as a doctor and grazier, George Warburton Fuller as a barrister and politician, and John Kenneth Mackay as a grazier. The makeup of the first cohort of students reflects a diversity that continues as a hallmark of the College. John Jacob Cohen was the first Jewish student to be accepted into any of the colleges affiliated with the
University of Sydney. Initially apprehensive about applying to a Presbyterian college, Cohen’s concerns were allayed when he was welcomed with a spirit of inclusion, which he later wrote “has been an important factor in the great popularity of Andrew’s”.
They are also foundation members of a legacy of family connections and continued engagement with the College. Cohen’s son Cedric (Fr 1909) and grandson Brian (Fr 1945) were Androvians. The Bowman name has a long connection with St Andrew’s; many students benefited from the opportunity provided by a Bowman Scholarship, and it is remembered in the stained-glass windows that flank the main entrance, a gift of Alister’s mother. George (later Sir George) Fuller studied law and was admitted to the Bar in 1884. However, politics and business interested him more than law, and he rarely practised. Knighted in 1919, he served in both State Parliament and Federal Parliament during his long political career. Concurrently, he served on the College Council from 1894 until his death in 1940; he remains (and will remain) the longest serving Councillor.
These men balanced their professional careers with a life of service. Bowman served the Singleton community as a medical doctor for half a century and was a member of Singleton Troop, NSW Lancers. Cohen took a diverse interest in public affairs and, like Fuller, entered politics. Like his brother William, Samuel Moore was a well-regarded solicitor and served on local boards in the Maitland district. John Mackay initially enrolled in Medicine, but he turned to the land and became a prominent pastoralist,
widely regarded for his generous hospitality and quiet, unostentatious support for charitable movements.
Tragically, two of the cohort died suddenly, in the prime of life. Both were solicitors with bright futures. William Moore, a recipient of a Bowman Scholarship, was the principal of the law firm Spain and Moore. A Captain of the Campbelltown Infantry, he also served as an alderman on the Campbelltown Borough Council for six years before his untimely death aged 37. He had been elected as Mayor of Campbelltown only days before he died. George Waldron was a co-founder of the firm Waldron and Dawson and was the City Solicitor for the Sydney Council at the time of his death. Newspaper reports of his death, at the age of 41, paid tribute not only to his abilities as a lawyer, but also to his integrity and universal popularity.
Behind these names are stories of success and service. They represent so much of what is good about St Andrew’s College, and what it means to be an Androvian.
Dr Tracy Bradford College Archivist
Above:
1882 Principal Kinross and students.
Middle: John Jacob Cohen (Fr 1876).
Bottom:
The earliest image of the completed Munro building (Illustrated Sydney News, 1877).
1954 Fresher Reunion
In April, we had the pleasure of hosting members of the 1954 Freshers cohort for their annual reunion. The group comes together each year to reconnect and share memories of their time at the College, and very proudly sang a College song or two! Principal Dr Daniel Tyler joined them for pre-lunch drinks and conversation, followed by a three-course meal in the Senior Common Room. We look forward to seeing them again next year. If your fresher cohort is interested in organising a reunion at the College, please contact the Advancement Office at events@standrewscollege.edu.au
Regional Reunions
We commenced our 2026 regional visits with a Canberra Reunion Dinner at the Commonwealth Club. Guests enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect over a three-course meal, while hearing the latest College updates from Principal Dr Daniel Tyler and Directors of Advancement, Hannah Atwell and Cameron Torrance.
Our regional visits continued in Newcastle, where we held a dinner at the Newcastle Club attended by 35 members of our alumni and parent community. The evening provided an opportunity for guests to socialise and strengthen connections, followed by an update on College developments from the Principal and Director of Advancement, Philanthropy, Cameron Torrance.
The College community also gathered in Orange for another memorable reunion hosted by Principal Dr Daniel Tyler. The evening brought together more than 20 alumni, parents, and friends of the College for an enjoyable night of exceptional food, local wines, and meaningful connection. We are especially grateful to the Robson family for their generous hospitality in welcoming guests to Ross Hill Wines for this special occasion.
Finally, June saw the College return to Mudgee, bringing together alumni, parents, and friends for a memorable evening in the region. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Mullamuddy Park, the home of the Broinowski family, guests enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with the St Andrew’s community and strengthen longstanding ties with the College.
Mother’s Day Dinner
It was once again a delight to celebrate Mother’s Day on Saturday 9 May. More than 250 students and their mothers came together for a memorable evening of celebrations. The event kicked off with drinks in the Junior Common Room Highlander Bar before guests moved upstairs for dinner.
SACAS Women in Leadership Luncheon
On Friday 27 February, SACAS hosted its annual Women in Leadership Luncheon, welcoming St Andrew’s alumnae, current students and senior staff to the Queen’s Club for an afternoon of connection, conversation and shared insights. We were honoured to host Sally Mcdonald, an accomplished brand, digital and retail CEO, NonExecutive Director, and a friend of a St Andrew’s alumna, as our guest speaker. Attendees were inspired by her candid reflections on her career journey, the challenges she has navigated, and her achievements as a woman in a high-profile leadership role.
Below: Guests enjoyed the SACAS Women in Leadership Luncheon at the Queen’s Club in February.
Right: L-R: Hugh Taylor (Fr 2026), Alison Taylor, Jack Taylor (Fr 2024).
Parents’ Cocktail Evening
We were delighted to bring together Fresher parents, carers and guardians alongside their students at our Fresher Parents’ Cocktail Evening on Friday 20 March. For the first time, Fresher students joined us, which made it a wonderful opportunity for parents to meet their student’s new friends, and connect with fellow parents. Guests were welcomed by Principal Dr Daniel Tyler, Chair of Council Jeremy Hoffmann (Fr 2003), Chair of Foundation, Niall Cairns (Fr 1981) and Senior Student Aredith Janarth (Fr 2024), who shared inspiring reflections as we commenced the new semester. With Drew’s Jazz and Chemble Ensemble providing the perfect backdrop, the evening was filled with lively conversation, delicious canapés, and the opportunity to form new connections across the College community.
SACAS Young Alumni Social Drinks
On Thursday 26 March, SACAS and the Young Alumni Committee hosted the annual Young Alumni Social Drinks at Henley’s Bar and Kitchen in Sydney CBD. It was a great night catching up with familiar faces and making new connections over drinks and great conversation. A highlight of the night was hearing from Antarctic adventurer Tom Hunt (Fr 2017), who shared astonishing insights into his expedition — from the physical and mental challenges to the moments that made it all worthwhile. The discussion, steered by Charlie JeavonsFellows (Fr 2018), was followed by an eye-opening Q&A with the audience and Tom handing out an exclusive South Pole shirt to a lucky winner. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for such an inspiring night!
Rawson Rugby Finals
The St Andrew’s community came together in force to support the Drew’s Rawson Rugby team as they competed in the 2026 Rawson Rugby Final against St John’s at the University of Sydney on Wednesday 20 May. Alumni, parents, students, and friends of the College filled the TAG Family Foundation Grandstand in a sea of blue and white, creating an electric atmosphere of support and College spirit throughout the evening. Prior to kick-off, past Rawson Rugby players were invited to reconnect with one another in the JCR and celebrate the proud history of Rugby at St Andrew’s before cheering on the current side in their bid to retain the Rawson Cup. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening such a memorable celebration of the St Andrew’s community.
Left: Charlie Jeavons-Fellows (Fr 2018) with Tom Hunt (Fr 2017).
Left: Guests gathering in the Junior Common Room courtyard during our Parents’ Cocktail Evening.
Left: Chair of Foundation, Niall Cairns (Fr 1981) with Dr Alex Abrahams (Fr 1977) at the Rawson Rugby Final in 2026.
SACAS Mentoring Program Report
2026 marked another significant milestone for the SACAS Mentoring Program, with participation continuing to grow and the quality of connections formed between mentors and mentees reaching new heights.
This semester, 41 alumni generously volunteered their time to mentor second and third year students across a wide range of industries, including law, finance, medicine, engineering, and the creative arts. Student interest in the program was exceptional, reflecting a growing recognition among Androvians of the value that a meaningful mentoring relationship can offer at this stage of their university journey.
Each mentor and mentee pair met for three structured one-on-one sessions across the semester, guided by themed discussion prompts focusing on introductions and industry, interview preparation, and building a professional network. These prompts provided both structure and continuity, while leaving room for the kind of genuine conversation that no workshop or lecture can replicate. Several mentees were also invited to visit their mentors’ workplaces, gaining a firsthand perspective on professional environments that proved, by all accounts, to be among the most memorable moments of the program.
To prepare mentees ahead of their first meeting, the Advancement team hosted an introductory workshop covering how to build a strong LinkedIn profile, how to prepare for a mentoring session, and how to make the most of the relationship over the weeks ahead. The care taken in this preparation is reflected in the quality of the exchanges that followed.
What the program continues to demonstrate, semester after semester, is something that cannot easily be quantified. It is the moment a student realises that the career they have been quietly imagining is genuinely within reach. It is the mentor who arrives having prepared notes, who follows up after a session, who shares not just their professional knowledge but their honest account of how they got where they are. It is the relationship that begins as a formal pairing and ends, more often than one might expect, as something that endures well beyond the final session.
Third year student Ruby McDonald (Fr 2024), who has been mentored by Mark Watson (Fr 1978), said “Through Mark’s guidance, my understanding of what a career could look like expanded in ways I hadn’t anticipated. He helped me understand the many ways careers change and evolve throughout one’s
life, offered enlightening insights into foreign affairs and international relations, and helped me prepare for interviews and applications.”
The program concluded with a closing celebration bringing together mentors, mentees, and members of the broader St Andrew’s community to reflect on the semester and celebrate another chapter in what is becoming one of the most valued programs on the SACAS calendar.
We extend our sincere thanks to every alumni mentor who gave their time and expertise this semester. Your generosity makes a genuine difference to the students you support, and the St Andrew’s community is stronger for it.
If you or someone you know would like to get involved in Semester Two, please contact the Advancement team at mentoring@standrewscollege.edu.au. Applications are open to all St Andrew’s students, and we warmly invite expressions of interest from alumni and parents across all industries and career stages.
Cameron Torrance Director of Advancement (Philanthropy)
Above:
L-R: Gemma Cohen (Fr 2024), Hugh Campbell (Fr 2007), Jonas Tam (Fr 1996), Tessa Redman (Fr 2025).
L-R: Kristen Emseis (Fr 2024), Josie Gollan (Fr 2005).
From the Society
Semester One of 2026 has been another energising period for SACAS, and one that reflects the enduring strength of the St Andrew’s alumni community.
The SACAS Mentoring Program continues to be a highlight of our calendar. This semester, 41 alumni generously volunteered their time to mentor second and third year students across a wide range of industries, from law and finance to medicine, engineering and the creative arts. Mentor and mentee pairs met for three structured one-on-one sessions across the semester, working through topics including career pathways, interview preparation and building professional networks. The program has grown meaningfully since its pilot, and the feedback from participants on both sides continues to be overwhelmingly positive. There is something particularly rewarding about watching an Androvian who graduated a decade ago sit across from a second year student and share the kind of honest, practical guidance that simply cannot be found in a textbook. We warmly encourage alumni and parents who have not yet been involved to consider joining us in Semester Two.
Our events program has been equally vibrant. SACAS sponsored eight events across Semester One, connecting alumni, parents, donors and friends of the College in Canberra, Newcastle, Orange, Mudgee and Sydney. Whether at an intimate regional gathering or a lively evening in the city, what strikes me every time is how quickly the conversation finds its footing. That is the Drew’s community at its best.
A particular highlight this semester was the second Lions’ Lunch, held in the Erickson Room in May. Open to alumni who reached their fifty-year milestone since first entering College, the Lions’ Lunch has quietly become one of the most meaningful events on the SACAS calendar. The
conversation in that room needs no warming up. Stories surface quickly, names from the past are shared across the table, and there is a sense of something rare and irreplaceable in the air. We look forward to welcoming the next cohort of Lions in 2027.
We were also delighted to welcome the 1954 and 1964 Freshers for their annual reunion lunches at the College. These gatherings are a reminder that the bonds formed at Drew’s do not diminish with time. If anything, they deepen. SACAS welcomes the opportunity to host Freshers year group lunches and reunions, and we encourage any year group wishing to gather at the College to reach out to the Advancement Office to make it happen.
We are proud to be supporting four outstanding students this year through the SACAS Scholarships, recognising those who not only excel academically but who contribute meaningfully to the life of the College.
I would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Advancement team for their partnership, dedication and support throughout the semester. The work they do on behalf of this community is extraordinary, and SACAS is proud to stand alongside them.
We look forward to seeing many of you at the SACAS Annual Golf Day at Eastlakes and the SACAS Annual Reunion Dinner in November, always two of the standout events on the calendar. We are also pleased to announce that a Young Alumni Breakfast will be held in Semester Two, providing an opportunity for our more recent graduates to reconnect and engage with the broader College community. Details on all events will be circulated in due course.
Don Nicol (Fr 1984) SACAS President
Awards Achievements &
The College would like to congratulate the following alumni on their awards and achievements in the first half of 2026:
Josh unlocks financial success in new book
Congratulations to Drew’s alumnus Josh Dowse (Fr 1982) on the recent publication of his new book ESG Unlocked, coauthored with Ian Wood. Josh is considered one of Australia’s most trusted thought partners on ESG, sustainability, energy and climate change. Having prepared and reviewed various ESG strategies, and facilitated significant national public documents such as the AEMO’s Integrated Systems Plan and CSIRO’s Australian National Outlook. The book explores how today’s leaders and investors build long-term value by strengthening natural, social, human and financial capital — showing why ESG isn’t a trend, but modern capitalism done wisely. It’s inspiring to see our alumni shaping global conversations on business, sustainability and leadership beyond Andrew’s
Lua’s designs take to the field
Congratulations to Lua Pellegrini, St Andrew’s College 2025 Artist in Residence, for designing the Sydney Sixers WBBL and BBL First Nations Round kit for the current season! An award-winning Wiradjuri artist, Lua has created a striking artwork that tells the story of the Sydney Sixers as a club and honours the team’s connection to its three home grounds, located on Gumbaynggirr, Cammeraygal and Gadigal Countries. We cannot wait to see her artwork in action on the pitch.
Zara represents NSW U21’s
Zara Pelham (Fr 2026) represented Hockey NSW at the 2026 Hockey Australia U21 National Championships in Canberra in April, and after tightly contesting the gold medal with Queensland, they came home with a successful silver.
Ragavi thrives at Oxford
We’re delighted to see St Andrew’s alumna Dr Ragavi Jeyakumar (Fr 2018) featured by the Rhodes Trust as Trinity Term begins at the University of Oxford.
A recipient of the 2025 NSW Rhodes Scholarship, Ragavi is currently undertaking a DPhil in Women’s and Reproductive Health. It’s wonderful to watch Ragavi’s journey at Oxford unfold.
Angus Taylor elected Opposition Leader
We congratulate the Honourable Angus Taylor MP on his election as Leader of the Liberal Party of Australia and Leader of the Federal Opposition.
Angus joined St Andrew’s College in 1986 and was Senior Student in 1989. He graduated from the University of Sydney with a Bachelor of Economics (First Class Honours and University Medal) and a Bachelor of Laws (Honours). He later studied at the University of Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar, completing a Master of Philosophy in Economics.
Angus was a member of Council at St Andrew’s College from 1999 to 2014, during the College’s transition to co-residency. He supported the College’s commitment to providing young people from rural and regional areas with the opportunity to study at the University of Sydney.
We congratulate Angus on his election and wish him well in this significant role.
Sterling saves the day
An evening at Darling Harbour Theatre turned into the experience of a lifetime for Sterling Nasa (Fr 2023). During the ‘La La Land’ concert performance, composer Justin Hurwitz’s pianist was unable to continue playing. After a call out to the audience, Sterling’s friend volunteered him as a gifted sight-reader, and he stepped up to the challenge and saved the concert, improvising a complex solo, earning a standing ovation from the audience. We’re incredibly proud of Sterling’s composure and talent and look forward to seeing him continue to excel.
Australia
Day & King’s Birthday Honours
We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of the following individuals from our community who have been recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours.
Wayne Erickson AM GAICD was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to tertiary education, rugby union, and the community. Wayne served as the 12th Principal of St Andrew’s College from 2008 to 2023, leading a significant period of growth and renewal in the College’s history.
Associate Professor Dr Ross MacPherson OAM (Fr 1973, Benefactor) - For service to medicine as an anaesthetist.
Dr Andrew Beattie OAM (Fr 1969) - For service to the community of Coffs Harbour.
Mr Richard Dougan OAM (Fr 1962, Honorary Fellow, and former Councillor) - For service to the community through a range of organisations.
Dr Andrew Wines AM (Fr 1988, SS 1991) - For significant service to orthopaedic surgery, and to the community.
Associate Professor David Romney Dossetor AO (Benefactor and past parent) - For distinguished service to psychiatry, particularly neurodevelopmental mental health in children and adolescents, and to paediatric clinician education.
Their exceptional dedication and service have earned them this prestigious recognition, bringing immense value and pride to the entire St Andrew’s community.
Grace makes the Diamonds
Congratulations to Grace Whyte (Fr 2024) on her selection in the 2026-27 Australian Diamonds Squad ahead of July’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and October’s Constellation Cup against the New Zealand Silver Ferns.
Phoebe wins the Women’s T20 World Cup
Congratulations to Phoebe Litchfield (Fr 2022) and the Australian Women’s Cricket Team on winning the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Phoebe played a superb innings of 48 from just 35 balls, including two magnificent sixes, helping Australia secure another world title with a brilliant 100-run partnership that set up victory. We are incredibly proud of Phoebe and all she continues to achieve on the world stage.
Vale
The College has learned of the following deaths in our community. Our sympathies are extended to the families.
Dr Keith Douglas Suter AM (Fr 1973)
Dr Kim Alexander Anthony Ostinga OAM (Fr 1954)
Dr John Preston Ball (Fr 1970)
Mr John Wallace Alexander Browne (Fr 1966)
Scan the QR code to read the obituaries in full or visit: www.standrewscollege.edu.au/ obituaries
If you know of someone in the St Andrew’s community who has achieved something noteworthy, or of any loved ones who have passed away in our community, please let us know by emailing the Advancement Office via: alumni@standrewscollege.edu.au
