3 minute read
Valedictory Address
Speech Night
Although it seems not long ago that I first walked through the Centenary gates as a Year 8 student, now is the final chapter in our book as students of Trinity College. There is a sense of sadness, nostalgia and even a fear of the life that is to be lived beyond school. However, it Michael Ford is up to us as custodians ofHead Prefect the College Tradition to uphold its values and reputation and to continue the Trinity legacy, which has been passed on from year to year since the beginning of Christian Brothers College in 1894. This intangible “Trinity Spirit” is what epitomises not only the men of the college, but the wider Trinity community. This spirit is evident on the sporting fields, in the classroom, in the playground and at social events; and it is demonstrated by the efforts of Staff, Parents, Families and Old Boys, that serve beyond the call of duty for the betterment of the College. I especially acknowledge the voluntary and tireless efforts of the parents involved with the rowing club, the music department, the Prefect’s Ball, the canteen and all other extra-curricular support groups. Thank you all for the support you have given to your sons and the college. I think on many occasions that parents prefer working at Trinity to their own jobs. While I’ll never forget the victories and the trophies that we as a Year, and as a school have claimed -- the victory of the Rowing club on the river; the victories of the Cross Country and 1st XVIII Football teams; and the success of the school’s various music groups at the Catholic Schools Performing Arts Festival and other competitions -- my most profound memories come from the moments where there were no medallions to be seen. To me it is the ability and willingness to unite in the face of adversity, which epitomises their character and the Trinity Spirit. Never was the Trinity Spirit so present than following the death of Year Eleven student Matthew Williamson this year. A great sadness swept through the entire Trinity Community. He was a young man that touched the lives of so many in such little time. As the staff and students of the College joined Matthew’s family and friends to salute Matthew’s funeral procession, and as I stood amongst them feeling the tremendous bond, I thought to myself, “Thank God for the life of this special person, and thank God for the Trinity Community”. For those who know the college well, Trinity surpasses all expectations and requirements that are associated with a secondary school. It is more than a school that prepares one for set exams. Our school prepares its students for the examination of life. All the year masses, retreats, the Christian service, collecting money for charities in the city, excursions, tours, sports competitions, debating competitions, music performances, as well as the academic rigours, have shaped us in a strong and positive way, and thus will influence the decisions we will make in the future.
While the College excels in its academic, cultural and sporting pursuits, like some other schools, the appointment of Mr Curtis as principal saw a renewed emphasis on faith and spirituality, and educating its students so that they can be men for others. Such an emphasis is the central component to life as a Trinity student. It has focussed the College community on the basic ideals of Blessed Edmund Rice, the founder of the Christian Brothers; it promotes a Christian environment encouraging love of self and of others, an environment in which strong values develop and an environment in which the gifts and talents of its students can be truly recognised and nurtured. The continuation of the India Pilgrimage and the commencement of the Kairos Retreats provide yet another invaluable opportunity for the students at Trinity. The retreat had a positive impact on the lives many of the participants. This retreat enables students to see how important they are to those around them. The Christian Service programmes for Years Eight, Eleven and Twelve also provide students with an opportunity to learn about themselves and value their lives and the lives of others. These programmes are so appropriate to us in our lives as Christians, as they call us to be of service to others.
Appreciate all that Trinity offers you, value it, learn from it, and make it part of your life!
Michael Ford
Head Prefect 2003
