College Board

BOARD MEMBERSHIP:

At the beginning of the year the Board welcomed new members, Ms Joanna Browne, Mr Chris Sutherland and Mr John Bormolini. On behalf of the Trinity community I would

Mrs Leanne O’Dea like to thank these talented Board Chair 2007 people for volunteering their time and expertise to the College for the term of their appointment. At the Board formation weekend held in March, we reluctantly received the resignation of Mr Darren Taggart. On behalf of the Board and the school community I would like to thank Darren for his time on the Board and I know that his involvement with TOBA will mean that we can work very closely to ensure the continued connection. The terms of reference for TOBA states that it is a friend raising and fund raising body within the College and I know that Darren and all TOBA members are very aware of the great work that can be done when everyone pulls together. It was during this formation weekend that the Board explored many major issues facing the College. One of these was the Future Capital Development Requirements for Trinity. As you are aware, in previous years the Board had identified the need for a major upgrade to our Music Facilities and the Board had not lost touch with this issue. However, due to a decision by the Catholic Education Office to include Year 7 in the secondary school campuses, the Board faced this decision and the ramifications of its implementation. It was recommended by all members of the Board that a sub-committee be formed to explore the ramifications of this mandate. Hopefully most of you are very aware of the process that followed – at times it was not a very pleasant experience, however the Board, and the governing body – The Province Leadership Team continued to support the process to ensure that a well researched and sound recommendation would be the result of this process. One of the overwhelming issues identified was the amazing generosity of our Old Boys Association and their potential willingness to put forward strong financial support for further capital development of the College. The Board applauded this level of support and has recommended pursuing this financial opportunity with much vigor. I am delighted to know that the College will benefit greatly from this continued generosity. Full details of the process and the recommendations of the sub-committee can be found on the College website. I urge all parents and community members to spend time reading this worthwhile document.

SUB COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD:

The various sub-committees have an amazing membership of dedicated volunteers with various areas of expertise. These people continue to work tirelessly and sometimes without thanks throughout the year – and so on behalf of the Board I say thanks to each and every one of you.

1. BUILDING AND GROUNDS:

Under the Chair of Mrs. Robyn Jennison this committee was set an agenda of tasks for 2007. A report was commissioned to establish the condition of all buildings within the campus, including Waterford and Camp Kelly. This document now gives the Board a detailed plan of the work that needs to be done. The next phase will be to cost and prioritize all future refurbishment, renovation and development of infrastructure.

These included the refurbishment of the Chapel – a smaller committee was formed to closely co-ordinate this project.

The refurbishment of Gibney Hall – Much needed air conditioning is now operational, along with some minor cosmetic refurbishment items. This project continues into 2008 and I thank everyone who has financially contributed to these projects, and ask that you continue to be supportive with the ongoing refurbishment.

The Redevelopment of the East Perth Region –As part of the region that is undergoing major redevelopment, it is important for Trinity to remain proactive and constructive in the opportunities that may present themselves during the redevelopment of this region. We have a strong committee working very carefully to ensure a successful outcome for the College. Much work is being done on short and long term plans involving the College and the surrounding neighbours. The WACA and the Trotting Association have presented their visions for their future developments. Trinity is now in the process of developing our master plan that maximizes opportunities as well as trying to minimize the possible negative effects of such outside developments.

2. MARKETING COMMITTEE:

Under the Chair of a new Board member, Mrs Joanna Brown, this committee has been working to establish a format of maintaining contact with all families, past, present and future to keep them informed of the opportunities that are available to support the College. It is hoped that this document will be introduced in 2008. Again I say thank you to this committee for its ongoing work in seeking ways to promote the College near and far, working closely with our Community Relations Officer, Ms Sandra Doick and our TOBA

Administration

Administration

Executive Representative Mr Les Conceicao. These relationships need to be strong and positive for the outcome to be of benefit to the College.

3. FOUNDATION COMMITTEE:

Under the chair of Mr Mark Mony De Kerloy this committee has established the Trinity College Foundation. This has been a project requiring much research and attention to detail, the diligence of the committee chairman has paid off. There will be an opportunity for all within our College community to be involved in the success of this foundation. Stay tuned for further developments in 2008.

Once this Foundation is well established it will provide a sound financial base for the College for future borrowings for Capital Development Projects. The base capital will always be protected but the earnings generated will be very beneficial in the years ahead.

4. FINANCE COMMITTEE:

Under the chair of Mr Wayne Zekulich this committee has faced numerous challenges this past year, but due to the work of this small group of dedicated people we are now in a position to move forward with an increased sense of financial security and a good direction for future capital projects. The financial realities of all the above mentioned developments will have the immediate effect on school fees and charges. However this committee and the Board remain acutely aware of our ethos and our current and future clientele and will continue to pay close attention to the effects of further financial imposts on all Trinity families.

CHRISTIAN BROTHERS – PROVINCE NEWS

2007 was a year marked with amazing milestones. One such occasion was the Function held at Burswood Resort Ballroom in September. It saw a wonderful celebration of the live’s of Christian Brothers in the Holy Spirit Province of Western Australia and South Australia and the gifts that they as a group have given to education – the focus of the celebration was on Western Australia. Celebrations were also held in South Australia along a similar format. It was an opportunity to thank this amazing group of men for the incredible work they have done since the arrival of their founding brothers in Western Australia in 1864. Another amazing historical event saw the establishment of a new province of Brotherhood – the Oceania Province – encompassing Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Timor and Australia. This new chapter sees our Brothers embarking upon new ministries in these countries whilst remaining true to their founder’s original goals.

The Governance of all educational institutions currently overseen by the five provinces within Australia will now be coordinated and run by a newly established governing body – Edmund Rice Education Australia – EREA. The 38 schools that are part of this new body will continue to operate in accordance with The Charter and Board Constitutions – so whilst there is change, the fundamentals of providing a wonderful education for all in the spirit of Blessed Edmund Rice will continue.