VALE

Tom Venturin

On 8 June 2024, the Nudgee College community tragically lost one of our young Old Boys in a vehicle accident, Thomas Leo Venturin (pictured above) NCOB 2021. Tom was a boarder and a much loved member of this community. A funeral service was held in Darwin on Wednesday 19 June, plus the boarding community organised a livestream viewing in the Nudgee College Chapel for those who could not make it to Darwin, where young Old Boys, parents and staff could come together and pay their respects.

Rest in Peace Tommy

“It’s possible

We thought of you with love today but that is nothing new, we thought of you yesterday and every day before that too.

We have so many happy memories of you growing up, your quirky sense of humour and your love of all living creatures - especially fish! But most of all we remember your honesty, consideration, thoughtfulness and inherent goodness.

We have so loved watching you grow up into a fine young man of whom we were so proud.

You left us far too early Tom, but it’s true, when all is said and done grief is the price we pay for unconditional love.

We make pathetic attempts not to cry because you have gone but try to smile because you were with us for 20 years.

The Babington, Pattiselanno, Watkins families say “It’s possible” Tom, rest in God’s arms.” - Written by Tom’s grandparents, Mr Chris and Mrs Marg Babington

Fovana “Bogo” Acanufa

It is with deep sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Fovana Acanufa, affectionately known as “Bogo,” at the age of 44. Fovana was a cherished member of the Nudgee College community and a beloved father of four, residing in Goroka, Papua New Guinea.

A towering figure both in presence and spirit, Fovana was known for his leadership and kindness. A proud member of the 1997 Nudgee 1st XV rugby team, his strength on the field was matched by his humility and service off it. Fovana earned a place in the prestigious Australian Schoolboys rugby team, yet his contributions extended far beyond the rugby pitch. He served as an altar boy at school masses, led the Red Shield Appeal, and was a respected role model to his peers and younger students.

Bogo’s larger-than-life personality made him well-known across the GPS sports community, and his legacy is fondly remembered by former teammates, coaches, and friends from multiple schools. He was part of a close-knit group of five Papua New Guinean boys in the 1997 Nudgee rugby side, and one of the last students to have boarded at both Nudgee Junior and Senior, spending a total of nine formative years in the blue and white.

Fovana’s impact extended well beyond his school years. He remained in contact with many members of the Nudgee College community, where his mutual respect and friendship were deeply valued over the years.

His absence will be felt by those who knew him, both in Papua New Guinea and Australia.

Fovana is survived by his four children, who now face the tragic loss of a loving father. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, including his brother Lawrence, as they navigate this difficult time.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Fovana’s loved ones and offer our support to the Nudgee College community as we remember one of our own. He will always be remembered as a role model, a leader, and a friend who embodied the values of Nudgee College in every way.

May he rest in peace.