Touchstone - Winter 2023

Our graduates celebrate The CBC Difference

Acknowledgement of Country

CBC Fremantle would like to respectfully acknowledge the past, present, emerging and ongoing Traditional Custodians of the land that is home to our CBC community, the Wadjuk people of the Nyoongar nation.

Cover: Rhodes Scholarship recipient Riley Faulds (2016).

Photo this page: Class of 2022 Graduation ceremony.

Touchstone is a magazine for the CBC Fremantle community.

Editor and designer Cherie Butcher

Stories Cherie Butcher

Photography Cherie Butcher, Thomas Yeates and the CBC community

Proofreading Michelle Ainsworth and Cherie Butcher

To contact Touchstone, please email touchstone@cbcfremantle.wa.edu.au.

18 | PALMA

From the Principal

MS JENNY KNOX PRINCIPAL

With immense pleasure and pride, I extend my warmest greetings to each and every one of you. I am honoured to share the latest edition of Touchstone, a celebration of the remarkable legacy we have built together and the unique qualities that set us apart as a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition.

When we consider our mission as a College, we often map backwards. What kinds of young men do we need more of in society? What skills and characteristics should our boys develop

so that they can be men for others, just as our founder Blessed Edmund Rice was? Our aspiration is the CBC gentleman – a man of resilience, strength, kindness and integrity. We strive to empower our students to become the best versions of themselves, making a positive impact on others.

For the lion’s share of 2023, I have been privileged to lead the College while Mr Domenic Burgio takes a well-deserved extended leave. During this time, I have had met with numerous young boys and

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their families who seek a place within the CBC Fremantle community. These families share the goal for their sons to become exemplary individuals, leading good lives and being good men. In this pursuit, we become partners. So, how have we fared thus far? The proof is in the pudding.

Within the pages of this edition, you will encounter a tapestry of stories that beautifully reflect the spirit of our school. From tales of triumph to moments of gratitude and remembrance, this magazine stands as a testament to the transformative power of a CBC education.

Throughout its rich history, our beloved school has remained steadfast in its commitment to nurturing young minds, instilling a sense of morality and integrity, and shaping individuals who are not only well-prepared for their chosen paths but also firmly grounded in the values of compassion, humility, and service. Our esteemed alumni serve as living proof of the profound impact of holistic education, empowering them

to become exemplary men, responsible global citizens, and distinguished leaders in their respective fields.

Our alumni have achieved extraordinary feats. From luminaries such as Rhodes Scholars Riley Faulds and Dr Glen Power to accomplished lawyers, accountants, dedicated educators, compassionate community leaders, and devoted priests, they continue to leave an indelible mark on the world stage. More importantly, their influence extends to the lives of those closest to them in fatherhood, cherished friendships, and companionship. It is truly humbling to witness the enduring imprint each CBC graduate leaves through their unique talents, contributions, compassion, and kindness.

However, our mission transcends the achievements of the past. As we look towards the future, we remain unwavering in our commitment to advancing the vision laid out by our revered founder, Blessed

Our esteemed alumni serve as living proof of the profound impact of holistic education, empowering them to become exemplary men, responsible global citizens, and distinguished leaders in their respective fields.

Edmund Rice. We embrace the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead, adapting to the evolving needs of the 21st century while staying true to our core values and honouring our rites of passage context.

At CBC Fremantle, our goal is to go beyond the conventional notions of education. We strive to create an inclusive, empowering, and transformative experience that equips our students with the tools they need to succeed while fostering lifelong connections, a profound sense of belonging and an unwavering dedication to social justice.

Our deep roots to our legacy are unwavering. We honour the extraordinary history and traditions of CBC Fremantle, drawing inspiration from the remarkable individuals who have come before us. We believe that by understanding and appreciating our past, we can better shape the future. Our students

are encouraged to carry forward the values, ideals, and principles that have defined us for well over a century, ensuring that our legacy continues to flourish for generations to come.

As you delve into the depths of this publication, I invite our alumni to reconnect with the memories, friendships, and formative experiences that have shaped them into the remarkable men they are today. Join us in celebrating the shared journey that unites us all – the CBC Journey. Together, let us continue to build upon the storied legacy of our school, inspiring generations to come and leaving an indelible mark on the world. My gratitude goes out to each and every one of you for your support, and I eagerly await the unwritten chapters of our school’s illustrious history that await us.

At CBC Fremantle, our goal is to go beyond the conventional notions of education.

Blessed Edmund Chapel during restoration.

The CBC Difference

If you want to see proof of the difference an education at CBC Fremantle makes, just look at our extraordinary past students who have chosen their own path to success and happiness. Our alumni hang up their green blazers to take on the challenge of being men for others, modelling personal excellence, independent thinking and active service. You can learn more about their endeavours in Palma and also in the Alumni section of the College website with video interviews describing the impact of their journey at CBC.

Our graduates provide genuine and tangible proof of an education at CBC Fremantle, with so many of our young men making the world a better place and being agents for change in both simple and profound ways. With Gospel Values at the heart of everything we do, the inclusive culture of the College encourages each student to discover his own personal level of excellence, and to distinguish what is true and what is false so they can build a future that is concerned with human dignity and care for our environment.

It is a path that requires courage, resilience and accountability, and CBC boys are supported on their journey of self-discovery. From Year 7 through to graduation, academic, spiritual and leadership opportunities provide students with genuine

It is a path that requires courage, resilience and accountability, and CBC boys are supported on their journey of self-discovery.

benchmark moments that assist in discovering their own skills and talents that can be used in service to humanity. The attributes of the CBC gentleman are clearly defined in the process, guiding the developing boys with a consistent message about what it is to be a good man.

The CBC gentleman is the result of a pastoral care philosophy that draws on rites of passage practices to successfully transition the boy from a child’s way of thinking into an adult psychology. With this critical development – which can only take place during the teenage years – a young man can step up to be a compassionate, mature and wise leader in a society that needs more good men. This is the CBC point of difference, and there are three key aspects that contribute to this successful and beautiful metamorphosis.

STRONG RELATIONSHIPS

CBC Fremantle seeks to form a partnership with our parents to work together to form the best possible young man.

At CBC Fremantle, the partnership between our parents and the College is imperative towards building a consistent message in the formation of the boy into a good young man. Common values of commitment, personal excellence, accountability and resilience provide a solid foundation for the boys to take appropriate risks, step out of their comfort zones and rise to challenges.

We build on this relationship in many ways, inviting our parents to engage with our rites of passage activities that build on each step of the

journey, as well as a commitment to the delivery of excellent pastoral care for all of our community.

We ensure the College is safe and inclusive and have intentionally chosen a path that inspires love and service. Our deep understanding of how boys develop underpins Pastoral Care throughout the College and a vertical House system provides quality care and opportunities for boys to develop strong relationships with their Mentor teacher and other students. Inspired by the teachings of Jesus Christ and the legacy of our founder, Blessed Edmund Rice, whose courage, compassion and faith provided life-changing educational opportunities for so many, we are

committed to a more just and equitable world for all.

PERSONAL EXCELLENCE

CBC Fremantle defines excellence as boys doing their personal best.

Boys love a challenge, but it is also true that they may just slip through with minimum effort if left in charge of their own destiny. Whether or not a student is performing to the best of his ability is not self-determined, but rather calculated and gauged in the classroom and through assessments. Building relationships between teachers and students contributes to a mutual trust, and boys also love to know exactly where they stand so communication is paramount.

Building relationships and celebrating our young men left to right: The Rite Journey opening ceremony invites families to honour their developing young men; Lucas Contera is centre with his grandparents and parents after the Academic Club 95 assembly; Jack Sullivan receiving his student leadership badge from his parents.

strong vision for learning at the College ensures students are placed in the best possible position for the next phase of their life journey, and for every student to achieve his goal.

Whether he is a high performer or a consistent C grade, on the road to his own personal goal each boy is acknowledged for his commitment and perseverance, and congratulated for rising to the challenge.

A strong vision for learning at the College ensures students are placed in the best possible position for the next phase of their life journey, and for every student to achieve his goal. At CBC, we recognise that study alone does not prepare boys for the future and our curriculum seeks to be inclusive and inspiring, enabling every student to be continually challenged at a level appropriate to his own learning journey.

RITES OF PASSAGE

Over all of this, CBC Fremantle places a Rites of Passage context which seeks the following:

i) To provide a deep and meaningful sense of belonging to a community.

ii) To challenge boys and celebrate their achievements.

iii) To move the boy from a child psychology to an adult psychology.

At CBC, with more than a century of experience in the education of young men, the College recognises that boys have a need to go through positive rites of passage to develop into leaders committed to building a better world. Rites of passage activities and ceremonies mark an evolution from one stage in life to another and can provide a sense of self-identity, belonging, achievement and purpose.

Developing from a child’s way of thinking to an adult psychology is imperative to the transition into tomorrow’s gentleman. A child places himself at the centre of the universe, avoiding

A

Alumni inductees are students who left to pursue apprenticeships or work prior to graduating and are honoured at the 2022 Graduation ceremony. Top to bottom: Ty Channells with Sep XXX (1977); Brennan Berardis with Terry Iannello (19XX)

blame and seeking a mother or servant in the feminine. In comparison, a loving and respectful adult male will understand that he is part of a community, and use his influence to help others. He accepts responsibility for his own actions and recognises women as equal. An effectively developed young man is a selfless servant with integrity, empathy, accountability, resilience and commitment, which can be counter-cultural in our self-obsessed society.

THE FINAL DESTINATION

While most parents want their child to achieve academically, most recognise that it is not the be all and end all. They also want their children to be socially accepted, emotionally intelligent, confident, good global citizens and, above all, happy. CBC seeks to walk beside them on this incredibly satisfying journey, celebrating community and honouring the rite of passage from today’s boys into tomorrow’s gentlemen – that is the CBC point of difference.

Rite of passage for tomorrow’s gentlemen

The final year students of CBC enjoyed a magical night at the highly anticipated Year 12 social event of the year, the College Ball.

The young men looked every inch tomorrow’s gentlemen as they joined their friends in the elegant Southern Cross Ballroom at the Fremantle Esplanade Hotel.

Under midnight blue lights with sparkling lights on the tables, the hosts and their guests enjoyed a sit-down buffet dinner before hitting the dance floor with enthusiasm.

The girls’ colourful gowns were on display as the couples circled the floor for the formal dancing sets. Overhead the lighting pulsed with coloured squares as the DJ pumped up the music for a night to remember.

The College Ball is a rite of passage that provides the graduands with an opportunity to showcase their social etiquette and enjoy the company of their peers in a formal and fun environment.

Top to bottom: XXX; Luka Adams and Fergus Schipf-Randell; Harrison Alliss.

Ky races to Commonwealth Games

After a sensational race at the national junior athletics championships in Brisbane earlier this year, Year 12 student Ky Hehir has been selected to represent Australian at the Youth Commonwealth Games in Trinidad and Tobago this August.

The super-quick runner smashed the Under 18 3000m in the time of 8:21.48 against stiff competition, qualifying him for the games and topping an incredible season on the track.

Ky started running at Little Athletics at the age of seven to keep fit for the football season, and now holds the WA state record for 3000m with 8:11, and won both the 1500m and 3000m state titles last March.

Juggling his final year of studies with his running commitments requires determination and perseverance, and Ky keeps his feet firmly grounded even as he prepares for the international event.

“It feels quite surreal. I never thought this opportunity would come so soon and to be given this chance to represent my country on the other side of the world is something that I’m excited for,” Ky said.

Left: Finn Brophy with his painting.

Right: Mr Newbold and his wife hold the portrait.

Art bridges generation gap

Paint the portrait of a centenarian was the brief provided to Finn Brophy, who would never have thought the simple mission would end up having a life-changing effect.

The Year 11 Visual Art student was selected to be part of The Centenarian Portrait Project, where teens spend quality time with nominated models before creating a visual interpretation of their life and stories.

Finn painted the portrait of retired crayfisherman, William ‘Bill’ Newbold, who shared tales of his long life during the sittings and now has the finished painting hanging in his room at Regis Aged Care in North Fremantle.

Finn said that he had no idea what to expect from the project and that he will cherish their interactions forever. The 16-year-old and the 101-year-old forged an unlikely friendship during their time together as they discovered they had more in common than they thought.

“Sitting with William and listening to him explain his adventures as if they were yesterday was such a pleasure. It has been an honour for me to hear his stories that inform the best possible artwork I could create,” said Finn.

The community nation-wide initiative was designed to dispel negative perceptions around ageing and adolescence and highlights art as a valid means for positive social change.

Encouraging participants to develop empathy and consider other perspectives helps to break down stereotypes and celebrate minority groups.

“I have been honoured to take part in such an eye-opening program,” Finn said.

palma

MR TERRY IANNELLO OAM (‘59) PRESIDENT ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

When we gather with our fellow alumni, one of the quietly satisfying aspects of our reunions is that we are from very different walks of life. Sitting at the same table with our old classmates as we sip a short black at Gino’s, or enjoying a beer under the stars at our All Ages Reunions, or reminiscing at our Over 60s Morning Tea, we can be rubbing shoulders with doctors, accountants, artists, footballers, plumbers, priests, entrepreneurs, politicians ... the list goes on. And we are all on a level playing field; there’s no hierarchy and no diversity, except maybe when we wrap our footy team scarves around our necks for the WAFL finals. This is one of the remarkable aspects of being part of an alumni community. Our fellowship extends far and wide, and we have all trod the same wandoo floorboards of the same beautiful old hall that is now the College Chapel.

The interior of Blessed Edmund Chapel was renovated in 2013, and, thanks to the generosity of CBC past students, we raised the funds to complete the restoration of the exterior in 2022. We celebrated the project at a special All Ages Reunion in November with the Chapel looking magnificent under the lights. We are very grateful for the support and fellowship of our donors as large and small contributions all helped us to get

over the line, and every donation of more than $1,000 has been acknowledged with a special plaque installed in the Chapel foyer. We are really keen to get the whole roof shingled now – restoration projects are addictive!

The Class of 2022 was welcomed back to campus for the Year 13 Breakfast in Term 1 and we had a great turn out. The breakfast was followed up with a special assembly for the Academic Club 95 inductees, and I was pleased to present the Alumni Association Award to Ryan Marrington for receiving the highest ATAR at CBC in 2022.

It was a special year in many ways, but 2022 will definitely be a year to remember for one Old Boy in particular. Riley Faulds (2016) was awarded a WA Rhodes Scholarship towards the end of the year and will be off to Oxford University to pursue a Masters in World Literature in 2024. Congratulations, Riley – we are looking forward to hearing all about your adventures.

The year is zipping past and before we know it, the Over 60s Morning Tea in September and the All Ages Reunion and Alumni Awards in November will be upon us. There is more information about these events on page 46. I hope to see you there.

Chapel restored to former grace

Celebrating the heart and soul of CBC Fremantle, the restoration of our original school building was completed late last year and is a shining example of the gratitude and love for their old College that still burns in the hearts of our alumni.

The exterior revamp of Blessed Edmund Chapel was made possible by donations received from CBC Old Boys and their families, resulting in a lasting legacy that is a stunning gift to future generations of students.

Built in 1882 out of local limestone, the heritage-listed icon is a wonderful example of Fremantle pre-Federation architecture and has been used by generations of the CBC community.

Alumni Association committee members were behind the fundraising initiative, reaching out to the community with a goal of $500,000 to cover the proposed works, which included structural upgrades, strengthening of the foundation, demolishing of additional walls, stripping of render, tuckpointing, painting, and construction of six new Celtic crosses to adorn the roof.

In appreciation of the community’s generosity, gifts of more than $1,000 were honoured with a plaque installed in the Chapel foyer, with some cohorts banding together to raise the total and have their year group recognised for perpetuity. The restoration also extended to replacing the shingles on the portico of the Chapel, and there are plans to continue raising funds in order to cover the entire roof with this traditional method.

If you would like to donate to the ongoing Blessed Edmund Chapel restoration project and be part of CBC’s living history, visit the Alumni page on the CBC Fremantle website, or contact the College Finance department.

The Chapel is available for weddings, baptisms, funerals or other services – contact the Community Engagement team at the College for further information.

See page 22 for the list of donors who made the project possible.

Above: The Chapel donor plaques.

Right: Blessed Edmund Chapel.

Thank you very much

The Alumni Association is grateful to the following donors for their contribution to the Blessed Edmund Chapel restoration project, and particularly acknowledge the generosity of John Hughes (1952).

Don Ainsworth 1952

Barry Alfirevich 1971

Kevin Allen 1971

Alumni Committee 2022

Matt Anderson 1994

Mick Andrews 1942

George Ayers 1950

Des Baccini 1953

Anthony Basile 1977

Danny Bellotti 1971

Nick Bienkowski 1966

Travis Bienkowski 1993

Ray Bostelman 1959

Harry and Amelia Bovell 1909

Harry Bovell 1953

Brown Family

Dan Brown 1959

Jonathan Brown 1926

Kenneth Brown 1969

Ronald Brown 1945

Thomas Brown 1921

Class of 2001

Matt Comparti 1949

Luke Cowlam 2015

Bernard Cronin 1981

Charlie Cronin 2021

Max Cronin 2019

Chris Cummuskey 1971

Danny Dolzadelli 1985

Peter Duncan 1959

Daniel Fatovich 1976

Noel Feeney 1958

Richard Finucane 1959

Peter Fruzynski 1984

Hans Geers 1971

Matt Gill 1959

John Giovannise 1971

Ben Gould 1991

John Green 1971

Daniel Guidera 1962

John Guidera 1951

Leslie Guidera 1954

Peter Guidera 1934

Peter and Noelle Guidera 1958

Terrence Guidera 1955

Thomas and Alice Guidera 1922

Thomas Guidera 1960

Colyn Healey 1957

Peter Healey 1963

John Hughes 1952

Terry and Gloria Iannello 1953

Leo James 1959

Jack Katnic 1950

Shaun and Marion Kenny

Neil Knight 1967

Frank and Mary Lo Presti 1976

Bob Loss 1971

Gino Mastaglia 1965

Nella McCann

Vincent McLinden 1951

Clinton Micale 1991

JJ Miller 1950

Ray Morris 1967

Gerard Neesham 1971

Geoffrey Paganoni 1969

Parent Auxiliary 2022

Andre Parker 1986

Jim Parker 1962

John ‘Polly’ Parker 1948

Kevin Parker 1952

Anthony Pensabene 1991

John Plummer 1967

Domenico Ricci 1956

David Ryan 1965

John and Jean Ryan

Paul Ryan 1976

Terry Ryan 1962

Francis Sander 1938

John Frederic Sander 1940

Tony Satti 1978

Joffre Sexton 1954

Clive Snowden 1971

Joe Taranto 1971

Mario Taranto 1973

Michael Taranto 1992

Phil Taranto 1966

Shane Taranto 1989

Graham Taylor 1977

Patrick Taylor 1980

William Thompson 1959

Matt Tinley 1986

Barry Tognolini 1971

Edwin Townsend 1959

Terry Waddell 1971

Alan Wedd 1965

Stefano Zagami 1981

Robert Zahtila 1985

Plus so many alumni at our Reunions

Top: Mr Burgio celebrating the final tuckpointing of the Chapel. Below left:: Mr Hughes speaking at the Chapel celebration..Below right: At the Chapel celebration reunion.

Vale Joan Jacobs

REMEMBERED BY MANY CBC OLD BOYS AS A KIND AND GENEROUS WOMAN, MRS JOAN JACOBS

PASSED AWAY ON 29 APRIL 2023 AGED 96.

For 22 years, Joan was a much-loved member of the administration team at CBC Fremantle, commencing in 1967 as a typist and working her way through many roles before she retired as College Bursar. Her boundless grace and empathy meant that her office was a sanctuary for students who sought first aid for a scraped knee, commiserations over a disappointing report card, or just a kind word on a rough day.

Joan was born in East Victoria Park on 9 January 1927 to Clara and Reginald McLean-Roberts. Her father’s notions of service, justice and commitment to the community were a strong influence on his daughter, who attended East

Victoria Park Primary and St Joachim’s School. When she was 23 years old she married Joseph Jacobs and the young couple purchased a block of land in Alfred Cove, building a garage that they moved into while finishing their home. In 1952 Joan and Joe brought their first son into the world, and Ross was soon joined by Peter in 1957 and Paul in 1959.

The kitchen was the hub of the Jacobs’ home with family and friends always chatting around the table while Joan whipped up a batch of scones or orange cakes or Joe cooked a hearty dinner. It was her commitment to her family, friends and faith that guided Joan

in her role at CBC, and also with her work in local politics and community service. Joan became a Commissioner for Declaration and then a Justice of the Peace, and she revelled in being able to help others so much that it was only in 2022 that she finally relinquished the role.

Joan’s life was not without tragedy and, according to her eldest son, Ross, she rose to meet the challenges with courage, sensitivity and dignity. It was Joan who held the family together when their middle son Peter tragically died at an early age, and then again when her beloved husband Joe

passed away. Her love and guidance during these difficult times were a great comfort, and her wisdom and generosity of spirit were an inspiration to those around her.

Joan leaves behind many wonderful memories. Her passing prompted an outpouring of stories about her kindness and generosity from past students, and she continues to live on in the hearts of her loving sons, Ross and Paul, daughters-in-law Lynn and Jenny, grandchildren Matthew, Maryka, Alissa, Oliver and Reuben, and greatgrandchildren. Rest in peace, Mrs Jacobs.

Far left: Mrs Joan Jacobs.

Left: Mrs Jacobs in the office at CBC.

Above: Mrs Jacobs and students.

From CBC to Oxford

On the old Honour Boards installed outside the Principal’s office at CBC, two gold leaf names shine brightly amongst the remarkable achievements of the College’s past students. Dr Glen Power from the Class of 1984 and Riley Faulds who graduated in 2016 have both been awarded Rhodes Scholarships, and their commitment to personal excellence and service to their community are an inspiration to past, present and future students.

RILEY FAULDS

Poet, scientist and CBC alumnus Riley Faulds is off to Oxford University after being awarded the prestigious 2023 WA Rhodes Scholarship.

The 2016 College Captain was stunned at the announcement, which is presented to postgraduate students with outstanding intellect and character who make a positive difference to the world they live in.

However, the incredible achievement was not so surprising for his CBC and St Patrick’s Primary school teachers, as Riley was an exceptional student and dedicated to personal excellence in all aspects of his life. A keen hockey player, Riley represented WA in the State Schoolboys in 2015, and in the same year was invited to join the Premier’s Commemorative Anzac Tour to Gallipoli after writing a winning essay about Monument Hill.

In 2015 Riley was nominated the National Lions Youth of the Year, outperforming more than 2,000 applicants from around in the country in the areas of leadership and community issues.

Riley was also a keen Drama student during his time at CBC, and performed in many outstanding College productions including Lord of the Flies in 2014, Animal Farm in 2015 and Twelve Angry Men in 2016.

After graduating from CBC, Riley studied Agricultural Science at UWA, followed by Honours in Creative Writing. With his unique skillset, Riley is passionate about raising awareness of climate change through his poetry, and is published in several quality publications.

Riley is planning to study a Masters in World Literatures at Oxford University, followed by a Doctor of Philosophy in English.

Above: Riley Faulds with the Governor of WA at the announcement of his Rhodes Scholarship.

Left: Riley with the Lions Youth of the Year award at a College assembly in 2016.

Left: Glen Power at Oxford. Right: Glen with the Governor-General in 2004..

GLEN POWER

In 1992 Glen Power was the first CBC Fremantle alumnus to be awarded a WA Rhodes Scholarship. At Oxford University, Glen undertook a doctoral degree in the Department of Biochemistry under Professor Eric Arthur Newsholme.

for Oxford and his College. With his colleagues, Glen went on to publish four more scientific papers on aspects of fat metabolism in muscle and liver of higher vertebrates, looking particularly at the influence of diet on metabolic control.

University, Glen undertook a doctoral degree in the Department of Biochemistry under Professor Eric Arthur Newsholme.

At Oxford

He gained admission to Magdalen College, one of Oxford’s oldest and largest communities, which was home for the next three years. He thrived in his new environment, being elected President of the Middle Common Room for graduate students, and running cross country

Glen left CBC at the end of Year 11 in 1983 with a determination to somehow work with fish. He studied at Fremantle Technical College to be a laboratory technician and then gained a Bachelor of Science majoring in marine biology at Murdoch University. During his studies, he became fascinated with how fish function, and

undertook an Honours project looking at fat metabolism in lamprey. He spent the next three years serving as Research Assistant to Professors Ian Potter, Max Cake and David Macey, earning a first class Honours degree. Publications from his work redescribed the evolution and phylogeny of fat metabolism in early fishes, showing that the way these fish metabolise fat is not dissimilar to human

Glen returned to WA where he went on to serve as an Adviser and Chief of Staff to the Minister for Health in the Court Government.

In 2001, Glen moved back east to continue to work in the health sector. Aside from one year of graduate law school at Melbourne Uni, for 17 of the

mechanisms, which was an unexpected discovery.

After Oxford, Glen returned to Australia in late 1995 and was drawn to explore more of the world beyond the sciences. Initially he headed to Sydney and Melbourne where he worked as a management consultant for McKinsey & Company and completed an MBA program in the USA. Missing home,

past 20 years Glen has been the CEO or general manager of hospitals and health services in NSW, Tasmania, Victoria and WA. He is currently the CEO of the Lions Eye Institute, and has served previously as CEO of the St John of God Midland public and private hospitals, Perth Clinic, and as Deputy CEO of the Joondalup Health Campus. For three years

After Oxford, Glen returned to Australia in late 1995 and was drawn to explore more of the world beyond the sciences.

he was the president of the WA branch of the Australian Private Hospitals Association, and in that role worked closely with the Department of Health on the sector’s COVID-19 response.

Glen has always sought to serve his community. This has found expression through his contribution as a non-executive director on the boards of several charities, health and education organisations. He received a Distinguished Alumni Award in Science and Engineering from Murdoch University, and has taught undergraduates at Melbourne, Monash, Murdoch, UWA and Oxford universities in the health and biological sciences. In 2015 he was granted an adjunct associate professorship at Curtin University.

Glen took a break from hospitals for two years and operated the Aboriginal Medical Services across the southwest of WA, chairing the Aboriginal health planning forum for the Department of Health. He is strongly motivated to help address inequities in health, particularly access, and greatly enjoys public and private health planning and service redevelopment. Over the years, he has helped build or redevelop a number of existing and new hospitals and clinics.

Glen loves to spend time with his sons, Angus and James, exploring the rivers of the southwest and fishing for trout. He has just completed a book titled Trout in Western Australia, a history of fish acclimatisation and inland angling in Western Australia, which he expects to publish later in the year.

Above: Glen Power (second row, third from right) in 1982.

What are they up to now?

Carmelo Zagami (Class of 1987)

After graduation, Carmelo attended Curtin University and commenced a medical laboratory degree. He began working at Fremantle Hospital in microbiology but discovered a laboratory was not for him and switched studies, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health in 1994. He then worked as an Environmental Health Officer in local government at Rockingham, Fremantle, Claremont and South Perth before completing a graduate diploma in Food Science and Technology in 1997.

In August 1999 Carmelo was appointed as a Justice of the Peace, which sparked an interest in law and in 2006 he became a paralegal in banking and finance. He commenced a Law degree at Murdoch Uni the same year, graduating with a Juris Doctor degree in 2010 and completing a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice in 2011. After being admitted as a lawyer of the Supreme Court of WA, he was employed by fellow CBC Old Boy, John Fiocco. A couple of stints in various law firms culminated in Carmelo hanging out his own shingle at Zagami Legal in Beaconsfield, and since 2019 he has enjoyed working in his community.

A Freo boy through and through, Carmelo was vice-captain of the CBC senior soccer team in 1987, and has served as secretary and president of Fremantle City Soccer Club. He keeps in touch with his old College and is a member of the Alumni Association committee.

Michael Binetti (Class of 1995)

After graduating from CBC, Michael studied Business before spending some time overseas and in the Northern Territory. He returned home to work as a tax specialist, becoming a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) in 2003 and Registered Tax Agent in 2004. Michael then launched Aspect Accountants and Advisors with two great friends and colleagues, Matt and John, and in 2009 obtained his CPA public practice certificate.

Michael loves his work, so it’s no surprise that further accreditations followed. In 2012 he became a Chartered Tax Advisor and obtained a Diploma of Financial Services, and in 2016 became a Fellow of CPA Australia. A year later his hard work was honoured by his appointment as a chartered accountant.

Amongst all that study and work, Michael loves getting out on his boat and throwing a line in or jumping in for a dive. Along with his wife, Anne, he loves to travel and also spends time in Bremer Bay and Moore River with their three boys, Alexander, Thomas and Samuel.

Travis Power (Class of 2010)

After CBC, Travis attended Notre Dame University, studying for a Bachelor of Education majoring in Mathematics. He was inspired to become a teacher by his Economics teacher, Peter Hawke, who convinced him to go into education, and he tries to emulate his passion and style in his own teaching. While at uni, Travis also worked as an Education Assistant, which provided invaluable class experience and exposed him to a wide range of teaching styles in different learning contexts. In 2016, Travis took on his first teaching role at Lynwood Senior High School, and in his spare time enjoys tinkering with cars and bikes, playing Dungeons and Dragons and keeping fit at the gym and with mixed netball.

Following their own path

A series of interviews recently produced by CBC Fremantle alumnus Keane Bourke (2016) highlights the very different paths that four CBC graduates have chosen to follow their dreams. Read a little about their journey below, and you can view the featured interviews in the alumni section on the College website.

Jordie Fienberg (Class of 2011)

After CBC, Jordie Fienberg started studying a biomedical degree before realising science was not for him. A chance conversation with a friend pointed him in the direction of Law, and he has never looked back.

Jordie is committed to personal excellence to better serve and help others overcome issues and find solutions.

Riley Faulds (Class of 2016)

Environmental scientist and poet Riley Faulds believes in the power of words to advocate for action on the climate crisis. The 2016 College Captain studied Environmental Science at UWA, followed by Honours in Creative Writing, and was privileged to spend time at the Katherine Susannah Prichard Writers’ Centre as an Upcoming Writer-in-Residence in 2022.

Riley’s love for both the arts and science has allowed him to combine his passions to better serve humanity and build a future for everyone.

Yusef Hourani (Class of 2016)

A year after leaving CBC, Yusef Hourani moved to Italy to study at the Florence Academy of Art, investigating the traditional method of realist drawing, painting and sculpture.

Yusef believes the feeling of family and connection to the College community provided him with the confidence to follow his unique and deeply satisfying creative path that inspires others to learn and grow.

Peter Hudson (Class of 2019)

It will come as no surprise that Peter Hudson immersed himself into politics at a very young age, and is now the local Liberal candidate for Brand. Always keen to serve his community, Peter went on to study Law at UWA with a focus on public policy and always knew that he would end up in politics.

Serving others remains a priority for Peter and he is determined to do the best he can for his community as he continues on his mission to make the world a better place.

Peter Hudson (left) and Yusef Hourani (below) feature in the Alumni interviews available on the College website.

Andrew Kania in the classroom.

Of boys and men

During his years as a CBC student, Dr Andrew Thomas Kania from the Class of 1983 has never forgotten a special teacher and one incredible day that pointed him in the direction of the man he wished to be.

This is a story from my boyhood, which was a very different time, as you will soon see. I leave out names of teachers as times have changed and I do not wish good people to be criticised for living according to the norms of their age.

In Year 7 my mathematics teacher was a RAF crew member who flew in a Lancaster Bomber for the duration of World War II. Mr S was a character, and we learned so much more in our classes than mathematics – we learnt about life and the past. It was a privilege and honour to have Mr S as my teacher.

Privilege or not, as school boys we often used to play a ruse on Mr S. If we had a test to sit or if there had been a homework piece due, one of us would pipe up with a comment such as: “Sir, we have been told that the Lancaster Bomber wasn’t much chop!” Immediately he would put down his piece of chalk, pull down his glasses to the tip of his nose, stare at the culprit, then remove his glasses, put one end of the frame in his mouth, frown and reply: “Well now that is the most ignorant comment I have heard for a long while. Everyone put down your pens!” For the

entire lesson Mr S would tell us thrilling stories about bombing raids and emergency landings. It was great storytelling. If we thought that the tale was coming to an end, we would prompt further reminiscing until the bell rang. Mr S may have guessed what the caper was – but the sheer joy of hearing a story so vastly distant from our young lives was, in hindsight, an immeasurable experience. Nothing can compare with primary evidence and oral history.

Then, in April 1978, the USS Enterprise stopped off in Fremantle for a visit. World War II veteran that he was, Mr S calmly announced to us one morning that we were going to go on board the visiting aircraft carrier. These were the days prior to safety checks and excursion rules. I doubt whether any teacher today could offer a parental consent form that could allow 50 12-year-old boys to jump on board a nuclear-powered and armed warship anchored in the Indian Ocean. But off we went.

Mr S was dressed in formal shorts, brown belt, knee high wool socks, brown shoes, a pressed short sleeved business shirt, and a tweed cap.

We all walked to a ferry docking point on the Swan River and were greeted with what looked like a giant iron waste bin floating on the water. Without blinking, Mr S told us that we were going out to the carrier on a naval barge.

We jumped on board and, as teenage boys are, we were in our absolute element. All that was between us and the deep ocean was a sheet of metal, and there wasn’t a life jacket in sight, but any fears that we may have had were allayed by Mr S, who was brimming with nonchalance and confidence.

What impressed me about the trip out to the vessel was the US serviceman who stood boltrigid in the centre of the barge with his hands behind his back. As we exited the harbour and made our way into the Indian Ocean the barge began to lift and drop as we came to Gauge Roads – the drop would have been about a

metre and a half and we thought it was just so much fun. If you can imagine a box filled with marbles, that was what we were like inside. As there are no chairs or seat-belts, we just rolled around.

The USS Enterprise was enormous. The only comparison I had in my mind when we pulled up beside it was the arrival of the Millennium Falcon at the Death Star in the movie Star Wars that had been released a year before. It was like arriving at a 10-story building.

I couldn’t understand how we were going to be transferred from the barge to the ship – then the sailor came to life. Up until then, what had been a uniformed statue – the only stationary living thing in the barge on the trip out – was alive. He nimbly made his way to the stairs and tied ropes from a makeshift pontoon bridge to the barge. The pontoon was a sheet of black rubber

three metres in width, five metres in length and fifty centimetres thick that lay on a dozen tyres. Opposite from us were two sailors standing on the pontoon and, for the next 10 minutes, according to the ebb and flow of the ocean, we were grabbed by the back of our shorts and thrown on to the pontoon. We then walked like unsteady astronauts before the sailors on the other side urged us up the ladder, which was about 20 steel steps welded to the side of the carrier with a rope railing. I cannot explain the sheer relief that I experienced when I reached the top and was ushered on to the mid-level.

What joy it was to be greeted with a morning tea of brownies, cookies and cordial, and then

All these years later, I still have the booklet that the US officers gave to us, which still bears the chocolate smudge from a brownie. My legs still shake as I recall looking over the edge of the flight deck and seeing only my school shoes and the black (not blue) ocean way below. In my mind, I can hear the accent of the US personnel and remember their kindness. I was very grateful to them for being our allies, and it made me proud to be an Australian and have such friends.

The only thing I regret is that I never thanked Mr S for providing me with one of the greatest experiences of my boyhood that could never be replicated. Each one of us boys grew that day,

we were taken up to the flight deck where there was a blustering gale. There were aircraft on deck but they remained stationary while we were there. There are no fences and I walked to the edge of the deck to look down and, startled, pulled back immediately. The US personnel were very welcoming and nothing was too much to ask. We were permitted to sit in the planes, and a friend put a funnel to his mouth and began pretending that he was sending messages. He asked the pilot: “Is this is how you speak to crew members?” The pilot replied: “No son, that tube is what we connect to ourselves so we don’t pee our pants on flights!”

and we also saw how other people live to defend freedoms.

Looking back, a most important lesson stands out for me. The experience was not without trepidation, but at no stage did I feel any fear when I was with Mr S and the US personnel. They were calm and confident, and calmness is contagious. So too is being an example of a good man. When I went to bed that night, I had changed radically from the boy who had gone to bed 24 hours before. I was still a boy, but I had a day out with men, and I knew what I aspired to be.

When I went to bed that night, I had changed radically from the boy who had gone to bed 24 hours before.

Keeping our crosswalks safe

Come rain, hail or shine, a group of CBC Fremantle alumni provide an incredible service to the College community by attending the road crossings on Ellen and High Streets.

Stefan Aydon-White (2012), Nick Bienkowski (1966), Morris Caputi (1990), Tony Pantano (1969), John Plummer (1967) and Phil Taranto (1966) are joined by Lyn Bienkowski and Rafaele Rana on the on the hi-viz team who diligently ensure students and staff safely cross the busy roads from before school to long after the final bell. Phil Taranto from the Class of 1966 manages

the high-vis team, with all members trained to WA Police requirements and working on a roster system to keep the crossings covered at all times.

With a shortage of traffic wardens affecting many metropolitan schools, CBC’s reliable alumni provide a peace of mind for the College community, and allow business to continue as usual for hundreds of students every day.

This page: Nick Bienkowski, John Plummer, XX, XX, Lyn Bienkowski and Phil Taranto MICHELLE XXX.

Below: James Exley and Judith. Right: Jim’s final resting place.

Garden rest for Jim

Old Boy James Exley has found his final resting place at the feet of Blessed Edmund Rice in the College Chapel memorial garden.

In a special family ceremony in Blessed Edmund Chapel, Jim’s ashes were blessed by Fr Mathew before being interred in a special place amongst the roses that will be marked by a plaque erected by the Alumni Association.

At the ceremony in the Chapel, Jim’s partner, Judith, spoke about his love for his old school and how happy he had been during his time at CBC.

Jim was Principal of Mosman Park Primary School for 20 years after teaching at Southern Cross, Wongan Hills, Rossmoyne and Coolbellup. He passed in March 2021 after a period of illness.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

A faithful servant

The son of Italian immigrants, Leslie Baccini was born in North Fremantle in 1934 and attended St Patrick’s in East Perth, CBC Geraldton and CBC Fremantle. A man of deep faith and simple ways, he has encouraged by the Christian Brothers to continue his education and enter into the priesthood, and went on to life a full and rewarding life in service to God.

According to his friends, Father Les Baccini was like Friar Tuck of Robin Hood fame, loving good food, good company and a comfortable pair of slippers. After leaving CBC Fremantle, Father Les attended the St Charles’ Seminary in Guildford, followed by three years in New South Wales where he gained a Licentiate in Sacred Theology. He was ordained in Perth in 1958 and celebrated his first Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Palmyra with his brother Des serving on the altar.

Father Les was appointed as Assistant Priest at Subiaco in 1968, followed by Gosnells and Northam in the following years. In 1972, he found his flock and became Parish Priest at Wilson. Described as a very humble man who led a simple life, Father Les was always cheerful and friendly. He was extremely well read with quite liberal views, and enjoyed an intelligent debate often peppered with his dry wit. His sermons were well known for being short and to the point with a sound theological base and relevant modern-day context. Father Les was devoted

to his parishioners and was loathe to disrupt their family life, even insisting his altar servers sat in the pews with their families except when distributing Holy Communion.

When Castledare Boys’ School closed down in 1983, Father Les was an advocate for the idea of using the property to establish a retirement village. Today, Castledare Village is a thriving facility for the elderly, with the old farm homestead converted into a home for retired priests.

Father Les spent his final years living as a local missionary of sorts. He was often seen sitting on a bench at Bentley Plaza, Riverton Forum or Booragoon shopping centres chatting with folk, and providing a compassionate ear to a troubled soul. He passed away in 2004, leaving behind his brother Des, who is a long-term member of the CBC Fremantle Alumni Association committee, and his sister, Barbara, and their respective children and grandchildren.

Above: Father Les Baccini

Below: Father Les presenting at CBC Awards Evening.

Reunions Roundup

ALL AGES REUNION

In November last year, the annual All Ages Reunion was a celebration of the completion of the Chapel restoration project. Almost 200 alumni and staff gathered for the special evening, with representation from the Class of 1947 through to our newest inductees, the Class of 2021.

This page and next: Past students enjoying the All Ages Reunion and the Over 60s Morning Tea.

OVER 60S MORNING TEA

September is a special month on the Old Boys’ calendar, with the annual Over 60s Morning Tea being more popular than ever for former students who graduated prior to 1979 and their partners. Mick Andrews from the Class of 1942 was the oldest alumnus to attend, and the young ones were represented by Anthony Satti and Guiseppi D’Alessandro from the Class of 1978.

Alumni Calendar 2023

MORE INFORMATION AT EVENTS AT WWW.CBCFREMANTLE.WA.EDU.AU

OVER 60S MORNING TEA 10:30AM ON THURSDAY 14 SEPTEMBER

ALL AGES REUNION AND ALUMNI AWARDS

6:00PM ON FRIDAY XX NOVEMBER

Alumni Recognition Awards

A CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE

Celebrating the extraordinary achievements of CBC past students, nominations are now open for the 2023 Alumni Recognition Awards in the categories of Rising Star, Community and Brother Kelly Leadership.

The winners will be announced at the All Ages Reunion on XX November 2023.

found at www.cbcfremantle.wa.edu.au in the Alumni Association section.