Roll Call - May 2011

Welcome to the “Countown to a Century” issue of Roll Call. In this issue and in the September issue we will feature snippets from the College archives in the leadup to the big 100th Centenary Celebrations next year. There is also some information about plans for the Centenary year on page 7. We also feature an interview with one of Cricket Australia’s newest recruits, Michael Beer, who recently made his debut in the Australian Test Team. Indeed a lot has changed since the College first opened its doors at the Stanhope Street West Campus in 1912 but the spirit conitinues to grow with each graduating class. I hope you enjoy catching up on the latest news of our old and new Old Collegians.

Kerry Martin

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,

Thank you for an absolutely tremendous issue! My wife of 43 years, a St Columba’s (Essendon) girl, was full of admiration for all that De La Salle Malvern is doing. Congratulations to Br Bill Firman and to Mr Peter Riordan for fostering that and every best wish to Br Paul Rogers as the new Principal.

Michael Busch (1958)

Dear Editor,

The article “All that glitters is blue and gold” in September 2010 edition of Roll Call took me back 44 years to 1956 when I partnered my sister Pat to the De la Salle Old Collegians’ Association Debutantes Ball at the St Kilda Town Hall. I am attaching a picture of the 1956 group which I thought might be of interest to your readers and Mrs Joy Bew who has obviously put in many hours over the years training deb sets. I do not expect publication.

Thank you for your publication.

John Farnan (1950)

Dear Editor,

I really enjoyed reading the last issue of Roll Call. It warms my heart to see that the Arts are still alive and kicking at De La Salle. Don Burrows was a hero of mine when I was struggling to master the guitar in Year 9, and I can see that the boys are still performers at heart. Congratulations to Haydn McKertish — in this world we need as many comedians as we can get!

D. Larkins (1992)

A DREAM ENDURES

On 4th February 1912, three Irish Brothers arrived in Melbourne by boat after a long sea voyage. They had been invited by the priests of the Vincentian community who were already well established in St Joseph’s parish. The parish was to provide the Brothers with their first residence, ‘Coldblo’ which was located at the western end of Stanhope Street. After resting for two days, the Brothers commenced classes on 6th February 1912, in what is now the recently renovated St Joseph’s parish hall.

With a new building ready within three months, classes were moved there. It was adjacent to ‘Coldblo’ and was divided into four classrooms. The College remained on that site until a new and much larger facility was built further to the east in Stanhope Street. That initial school building became the Tramways Museum until today. However the College Crest is still very visible above the main entrance.

In 1929, with the Tower block completed and the Brothers community now more suitably provided for at Tiverton, classes were moved to that site and have remained there since that time. In 1953 a second property, ‘Kinnoull’ was purchased in Northbrook Avenue and that enabled further expansion and growth during the second half of the century.

The Vincentians were instrumental in inviting the Brothers to establish their first school in Melbourne and thus helping also to cement the vision of the Vincentian Fathers for their parish of Malvern. The current

presbytery was built in 1895 and St Joseph’s church was blessed in 1908, four years before the Brothers arrived. Thus began an invaluable link with the Vincentian Fathers that has continued until this day. It also helps to explain the long relationship reflected in the attachment of Father Troy CM to De La Salle College, 1968–1995 as Chaplain. A wonderful priest, a remarkable and holy man, a true priest and friend to so many De La Alumni. We mourn his passing on 12 April this year, in his 86th year.

De La Salle is now preparing to celebrate 100 years in the cause of Catholic education in the parish of Malvern and the Melbourne Archdiocese. A Centenary is a time for great thanksgiving: thanksgiving to God for all those people who have made De La Salle such a memorable centre of educational excellence, and, who by their talent, commitment and dedication built the tradition that is De La Salle. For 100 years let us prepare to give thanks.

2012 will be marked with a series of functions and celebrations. We wish to identify and celebrate the talent that is De La Salle 100 years from commencement in 2012; we also wish to rally alumni and make acquaintances once again with all those who shared the Lasallian spirit in their generation; and we will cap our year with a remarkable Centenary Dinner on 18th August.

The Centenary may be the end of our first century of existence. It is also the commencement of our next century in which we must continue to build on the legacy and develop our future to a series of new heights and possibilities. Please check the dates in your 2011 Roll Calls and prepare for all that shall be in the year to come. All great family celebrations require each generation to do a little bit to help the larger family. Let us work together to capture the spirit, the history and the culture that is De La, 2012! Deo Duce!

Brs Jerome, Leopold and Dunstan

Our top VCE achievers

best in a decade

2010 was an outstanding year for VCE results at De La Salle College. Four students achieved an ATAR score over 99, representing the top 1 per cent in the State and the College’s best top VCE results in a decade. The Dux of the College for 2010 was Luke Frazetto with an ATAR of 99.6. Luke’s achievement was closely followed by Daniel Martin and Eugene Twomey with an ATAR score of 99.5, followed closely by Cailin Wrigley with 99.4. The Assistant Principal Curriculum, Mr Stephen Young, said this was truly outstanding effort by these young men. “Achievements at this level of excellence take more than abundant talent,” Mr Young said. “These students worked incredibly hard and drew upon the strong support of their teachers, right through their schooling at De La Salle College.” Similarly the College’s VCAL program also achieved some excellent outcomes with all of the 2010 Senior VCAL being successfully awarded the VCAL Certificate and subsequently being offered places in further vocational training or apprenticeships.

Luke Frazzetto (College Dux) received an ATAR score of 99.6, a remarkable effort. Luke commenced his secondary education at De La Salle in Year 7 after graduating from St Cecilia’s Primary School Glen Iris. During his time at the College Luke was very involved in AAC sport and represented the College in ACC cross-country, athletics, football, tennis, table tennis and volleyball. He admits that crosscountry was his first preference. In Year 9 he was involved in the College’s Peer Support program which mentors Year 7 students. Outside the College he played football for the Ashburton Redbacks and the tennis for the St Cecilia’s Tennis Club. Luke is studying Commerce at The University of Melbourne and his career ambition is to move into accounting or finance.

Daniel Martin, who achieved an ATAR score of 99.5, started at De La Salle in Year 4. He attended Our Lady of Victories Primary in Camberwell. During his time at De La Salle he was involved in ACC debating and chess as well as ACC soccer and cricket.

Outside the College Daniel did karate at the Sendai Club in Burwood and was a member of the swimming squad at Whitehorse Aquatic Centre. Daniel is studying Bio Medicine at the University of Melbourne and his career ambition is to complete postgraduate studies in medicine and qualify as an anesthesiologist.

Eugene Twomey achieved an ATAR score of 99.5. He commenced at De La Salle in Year 7 and attended St Margaret Mary’s Primary School in Spotswood. At the College he was involved in the Junior Debating team and numerous College productions, including The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, The Wiz, The Dream and The Hot Mikado. At the end of his VCE year, he was a member of the College’s 2010 Coolies program. Throughout his youth, Eugene was very actively involved in drama and film making and was a member of Altona Youth Theatre. This year he is studying Arts at The University of Melbourne and hopes to study Law and eventually be admitted to The Bar.

Cailin Wrigley, who achieved an ATAR score of 99.4, started at De La in Year 7 after graduating from St Mary’s Primary School in Hampton. During his time at De La Salle he was involved in ACC Athletics and competed in the long jump and the triple jump. He also tutored students through the College’s after school SumAid Program.

Outside of College, Cailin played for the Hampton Rovers football club and worked part time. He is studying a Bachelor or Commerce at The University of Melbourne. His career aspirations are to move into engineering.

The following students also received ATARs over 90: Jack Beech, Jack Jopling, Lachlan Cook, Nicholas Kent, Rolando Cozza, Darcy McCaffrey, David De Fazio, Dat Pham, Luke Henriques-Gomes, Chern Rodriques, Fraser Henry, Benjamin Stott and Michael Higginbotham.

The Class of 2010 and beyond

In 2010, 183 students were enrolled in VCE at De La Salle College. Of these, 170 students applied for a place at university or TAFE and all but 8 students received an offer through VTAC in the first round. Of the few remaining students, some decided to take a Gap Year or work. The VTAC offers included 69.3 per cent to universities, 32 per cent to TAFE and 11 students were offered paces at Independent Colleges.

The College’s Careers Coordinator, Mrs Carmel Smart, said that the lines between university and TAFE Colleges were becoming more blurred, affecting post school choices. “Educational institutions are offering much better pathways from school to further post school study choices. Now TAFE colleges offer degrees, and some universities offer both VET and Higher Education courses, so students have greater choice. Consequently, we have students studying degrees at Holmesglen and others doing pathway courses to degrees at TAFEs and Independent Colleges.”

The most popular choices among the class of 2010 were Swinburne, RMIT, Monash, The University of Melbourne, Holmesglen TAFE and Deakin University. Swinburne and RMIT offer courses in both the VET and Higher Education sectors.

Of the 77 students who received an ATAR score 70 or above, 56 of them had completed six Year 12 subjects. The top 10 students and every student, except one, who achieved an ATAR score over 90, had completed a Year 12 subject in Year 11. Two of the top 10 students had completed two studies in Year 11.

Australian Catholic University increased in popularity due to the growing interest in education, but also due to the success of their Early Achiever’s Program, which allows students to add other information to their application and be notified of their success before the Change of Preference period in December.

Top VCE Achievers

Standing: Luke Henriques-Gomes, Nick Kent, Lachlan Cook, Jack Beech, Michael Higginbotham, Darcy McCaffrey, David De Fazio, Benjamin Stott. Seated: Fraser Henry, Chern Rodriques, Cailin Wrigley, Luke Frazzetto, Br Paul, Daniel Martin, Eugene Twomey, Jack Joplin (absent Dat Pham and Rolando Cozza).

Vale Br Stanilsaus Aidan fsc

Br Stanislaus was born in Marrickville, Sydney in 1919. He joined the Broth ers in 1933 and arrived at De La Salle in 1941 as an energetic young brother who was not only very involved in sport, but was also studying for his Bachelor of Science in the evenings at Melbourne University. He was an outstanding Chemistry and Religious Education teacher as well as sports man and devoted follower of the Sydney Swans.

In 1959 he was appointed the Principal of the College and remained in that position until 1963, when he left to go over seas for a renewal program and study leave. Subsequently he spent three years as Principal of St Bede’s College before becoming Auxiliary Visitor, from 1968–1973. He was posted to Cronulla in 1974 and remained there as Principal, teacher and mentor until he died earlier this year after suf fering a heart attack.

He was remembered by Br Quentin O’Halloran in his Eulogy as someone who inspired loyalty in his students. “His tal ents, energy and gift of relating well to people were at their height in Malvern, leaving indelible memories with members of his classes, the Old Collegians Association, swimming and football teams, the Cadet Corps and with the Old Col legians Football Club.Those of us who had the privilege of living in Community with Br Stanislaus found him a warm human being with a strong, personal, uncomplicated faith which he carried lightly.”

Old Collegian’s Bequest

When Albert Higgins passed away in 2010 at age of 100, he was the oldest living Old Collegian. Albert was very active in his later years and a year before he passed away he was the guest of honour at an Old Coll’s Reunion at Tiverton Campus where he spoke fondly of his old school. During the Reunion he posed proudly with current students in their Blue and Gold uniform. The College community was saddened by Albert’s passing and his memory was honoured by a large contingent of Blue and Gold at his

Recently the College was informed that at Albert Higgins

scholarship fund is to be established

Br Stanislaus was a close friend of Bishop Mulkearns (Bal larat) who was one of Br Stanislaus first students at De la Salle. In a letter to Br Paul Rogers on hearing of Br Stan’s, passing Bishop Mulkearns wrote:

“I always envisaged that, should Stan die before me that I would be at this funeral and pay public tribute to him. It sad dens me very much to say that I will not be able to be at the Mass. I am grateful for and proud of the education I gained at De La Salle from 1938–1948. The witness of the Brothers — living in difficult conditions in those times — was great.”

And finally in the words of Br Quentin in his farewell to Br Stanislaus; “As a true Lasallian who dedicated your long life serving Christ in others, with such vitality, may you continue to inspire us. May you rest in peace.”

The Memorial Albert Higgins Scholarship Fund will provide financial support for students in the future.

To mark this generous donation the College will be launching the Fund during its Centenary Celebrations next year when details of eligibility will be available.

Just before he passed away Roll Call interviewed Bert at his home in East Malvern. During the interview Bert’s genuine love for De la Salle was obviously alive in his heart. “I only ever had one school. It was always De La Salle and I was very happy there”, Bert said at the time.” During the lead-up to his 100th birthday celebrations in 2009, a group of Year 11 De La students organized a Backyard Blitz at Bert’s house to prepare it for his birthday guests. Bert was delighted and commented that he had lost his old De La Salle tie. Shortly before his birthday several of the College Leaders visited Bert and presented him with a De La Salle tie for his birthday. He was elated.

When Bert started at De La Salle in 1917, De La Salle was located at the Western end of Stanhope Street. Much has changed since Bert’s time at de La Salle College but the spirit of Old Collegians like Bert will always live on.

Countdown to aCentury

This year De la Salle College commenced its “Countdown to a Century” of education in Malvern and preparations are well under way for the College’s Centenary Celebrations next year. Plans include a Centenary Mass, the Centenary Gala Dinner and a College Musical. The official program of events will be published in the September issue of Roll Call.

Centenary Gala Dinner

Leading De La Salle in 2011

Angus Cramp College Captain

Angus commenced at De La Salle in Year 7 in 2006 after graduating from from Cheltenham Primary School. In his time at the College, Angus has been a valued member of the ACC Athletics and Cross Country teams. In Year 10 Angus was the ACC 800m champion. He has been a member of the SRC, went on cultural exchange to the Philippines in Year 9 and organized and played in the Bandaid for Haiti fundraiser. Outside of the College, Angus’s interests include surfing, photography and film making. Angus hopes to work hard on his studies this year and pursue a future in photojournalism or film while traveling the

Early this year the 2011 College Leaders were introduced to the College at the Annual Investiture Ceremony held at the Tiverton Campus. The College leaders were presented with their badges by the Mayor of Stonnington, Councillor Melina Sehr. The whole College community gathered to welcome the new leaders.

Timothy comes to us from St Michaels Primary School Ashburton, commencing in Year 7. In his time here, Timothy has been in a number of College activities. He has represented the College in ACC football, basketball, snowsports, volleyball, cross country and swimming and was a member of the athletics squad. He has also been an SRC member and was Tiverton Campus Captain in 2008. Last year, Timothy went on the Italian Exchange

trip. Timothy hopes to pursue a career in Architecture and spend time traveling in Europe.

Daniel Slavin College Vice-Captain Daniel came to De La Salle in 2006 from St Paul’s Primary in McKinnon. Since then Daniel has involved himself extensively in all facets of College life. He has contributed strongly to the College’s sporting program representing De La in ACC volleyball, basketball, skiing, and cross country. He has also represented the College in ACC Debating and taken part in the 2008 trip to the Philippines. Daniel has been a House Captain and SRC member and was Tiverton ViceCaptain. Daniel’s aim this year is to encourage all students to be their best regardless of what they want to do in the future. Daniel hopes to join the air force as a pilot.

Jake Williams

Jake Williams commenced his De La Salle education in Grade 4 in 2003. He had, up until that time, attended St Mary’s Primary School in East Malvern. Since joining De La, Jake has embraced all areas of College life. In recent years he has sought out leadership opportunities, being involved as a Year 11 leader and contributing

to Founders Day. It is in the area of sport, however, that Jake has excelled. He has represented the College in ACC football, athletics, cross country, hockey and tennis. Outside the College, Jake has captained Ashburton Football Club and is currently training with the Oakleigh Chargers. In the future Jake hopes to work in the area of Sports Management.

Dimitri Damianos

Dimitri started at De La Salle in Year 7 after completing his primary schooling at Oakleigh Greek Orthodox College. Since being at the College he has been awarded many leadership positions as SRC, Peer Support Leader and HouseCaptain. He has also been selected in the ACC football and soccer teams. On the weekend Dimitri is involved with Murrambeena Junior Football Club.

In the future Dimitri hopes to travel to Greece to visit family and friends and study sports journalism at University.

Nicholas Pane Nicholas commenced Year 7 after finishing his primary schooling at St Dominic’s Primary School in Camberwell East. During his time at the College, Nicholas has participated in ACC football, volleyball and hockey. He was also part of the group which traveled to Papua New Guinea last year as part of a Lasallian project to rebuild a local school (see story page 14). In his spare time, Nicholas umpires in the Yarra Junior Football League and hopes to pursue a career in Sports Journalism.

Anthony Kouch

Anthony came to De La Salle in year 7 after finishing at Armadale Primary School. Anthony has been a strong performer across all areas of College life, winning numerous academic

College Leaders (left to right)

Dimitri Damianos, Nicholas Pane, Jake Williams, Daniel Slavin, Patrick O’Connor, Angus Cramp, Patrick Hanney, Ashton Agar, Timothy Shallue, Mark Goy, Michael Stizza and Anthony Kouch

awards, being an SRC member and House Captain and a member of the St Vincent De Paul Society. Outside of school Anthony enjoys swimming and badminton. He hopes to achieve a strong ATAR score this year before embarking on a medical degree and travel.

Michael Stizza

Michael started in Year 7 after finishing his primary education at St Michael’s Primary School in Ashburton. He has been involved in the SRC on numerous occasions and has represented the College in ACC basketball, football, volleyball, athletics and cross country. Sport is a focus for Michael outside school as well, and he is a member of the Ashburton Redbacks Football Club and the Ashwood Wolves Basketball Club. Michael is aims to work hard throughout this year and hopes to achieve an ATAR score that will allow him to study physiotherapy.

Patrick Hanney

Patrick joined De La Salle in Year 8. He quickly embraced College life and has been involved in many extra curricular activities during his time here. These include being an SRC representative and volunteering for the Papua New Guinea project last year. He has also represented the College in ACC basketball, volleyball, football and public speaking. Outside of the College, Patrick plays basketball and volunteers in a soup van project. He hopes to pursue a career in writing or politics.

Patrick O’Connell

Patrick commenced in Year 7 after completing his primary schooling at Our Lady of Good Counsel. Patrick has contributed considerably to the College’s ACC program. He has represented the school in ACC football, athletics, cross country, hockey and

cricket. He has also been a peer support leader and SRC member. Patrick hopes to use his leadership position this year to create a greater involvement and spirit amongst students. Patrick plans to work in Health Sciences.

Mark Goy

Mark went to primary school at St Josephs in Malvern before starting Year 7 at De La Salle in 2006. Mark has been involved in many areas of College life. He has been Choir Captain, an SRC rep, a member of the St Vincent de Paul group, a sports captain and a member of the ACC swimming team. Mark wants to use his position this year to be a good role model for younger students while at the same time working hard on his studies.

Ashton Agar

Ashton attended Gardenvale Primary School in East Brighton before starting at De La Salle in Year 7. Ashton is a talented cricketer and in his time at De La Salle, he has captained the Year 8, 9, 10 and 12 ACC Cricket Teams. He was also a member of the 2010 and 2011 ACC 1st XI premiership team.

Outside the College, Ashton has been a member of the Victorian Under 15, Under 17 and Under 19 sides and a member of the Australian Under 16 and Under 17 sides. Ashton’s goals this year are to be a good leader and role model and to work hard at his studies. He hopes to study law and become a professional cricketer.

Old Collegians

By Kerry Martin

Old Collegian, Michael Beer’s, (2002) recent selection in the Australian Cricket Squad was certainly a great boost for his cricket career but some say it also marked a turning point in the road to rebuilding the Australian Test and one-day teams.

After having played only five first-class cricket games, Michael’s selection came as a surprise to many in the cricket world, but with the support of people like Shane Warne, his selection could be a long-term fix for an ailing Australian side.

The General Manager operations for Cricket Victoria, Mr Shaun Graf, told Roll Call that although Michael’s selection came as a surprise he could turn out to be an integral part of rebuilding the Australian teams.

“I could see him being not only a permanent fixture in the Test team but an integral part of the rebuilding of the Australian one day team.”

at the

Mr Graf said those close to Michael know of his strong competitive spirit and ability.

“He performed creditably in his early 1st class matches for WA plus the dearth of experienced spin bowlers meant that he had to be a chance to be selected. The task for Michael now is to establish himself firstly by being selected for the tour of Sri Lanka in August.”

Roll Call spoke to Michael in Perth, where he nows plays for the WA Warriors, about his selection into the Australain Squad and his time as a student at De La Salle. Michael started at the College in Year 4 and among other things played ACC Cricket and captained the team in Year 10.

He spoke of many great memories of his time at the College, especially strong friendships.

“I made some great mates at De La Salle, many of whom I am still close with today.”

Since leaving De La, Michael has completed a Sports Diploma at Swinburne University and is still studying for his Bachelor in Physical Education at Victoria Univeristy. After graduating from Swinburne he went to the UK where he played the 2005 Season and then worked full time with the Puma Cricket department.

Last year he was offered a contract with the Western Australian Warriors for the 2010–11 season, where he made his debut in the Ryobi Cup match against Victoria.

Michael said that while he is based in WA he returns to the east often and this winter has been invited to the Centre of Excellence in Brisbane in the lead-up to the national and international Tours next summer.

“When I heard I had been selected to play for Australia I must admit I was a bit surprised that it came around so quickly, having played only half a season for WA.”

“But it was a nice surprise and playing for Australia was certainly an honour.”

“My goal has always been to play for Australia in any form, whether it be in the one-day matches or the Tests.”

“When I was at school I always wanted to play cricket at the

Photograph courtesy Herald Sun

crease

highest level and naturally my dream was to one day play for Australia.”

Michael tries to try keep pretty relaxed about the expectations and pressures that come with playing first class cricket and he hopes that it carries on to the field.

“When I finally got to walk out onto the Sydney Cricket Ground I actually felt quite calm,” he said. “I had already got to know the other members of the team having been twelfth man in the Boxing Day and Perth Tests, so I was pretty relaxed,” he said.

“Somehow I managed to block out the media and the crowds and just play cricket.”

He took his first Test wicket, Paul Collingwood, in that Test match.

Michael started cricket career at the Malvern Cricket Club where his family had strong ties. His father was part of the club’s “Team of the Century.”

Being selected to play for Australia doesn’t come easily and Michael earned his stripes at the St Kilda Cricket Club, where he took over 100 wickets in two seasons and was twice selected in the Premier Cricket Teams. He played some Second XI matches for Victoria in the Cricket Australia Cup and toured England with the Victorian Emerging Players in 2007. In 2007 he won the Crusaders/ Robert Rose Scholarship, having taken 43 wickets at an bowling average of 19.88.

Those who know Michael Beer hope it is the start of a long Test journey and we wish him all the best along the way.

First XI cricket success

The De La Salle cricket honour roll continues to grow with this year’s victory over St Joseph’s Geelong. The win was their second successive victory. Last year they defeated St Bede’s. Captain of the Firsts, Year 12 student Ashton Agar, could be another Michael Beer, having been selected for Australia in the Under 16s and Under 17 sides. And as Roll Call goes to print, Ashton is representing Australia in the U/19 National Cricket team against the West Indies in Dubai. Ashton has captained the De La Salle ACC cricket team in Years 8, 9, 10 and Year 12.

1st XI 2011 — Mr Marty Rhoden (coach), Robert McCarthy, Miles Fabris, William Nash, Louis Holmes, Justin Hall, Lachlan Hay, Br Gabriel (assistant coach)

Front: Harry Haley, Simon Hearne, Ashton Agar (captain), Charlie Haley, Thomas Keys, Jacob Curtis

FREEDOM OF THE

CITY

De La Salle students starred in The Freedom of the City in the PAC recently. Over two terms, the cast worked hard to master Irish, British and American accents, learn lines and discover the relationships between the characters. With the help of the College community, we created the world of Londonderry in the 1970s. Our task was to tell the story of the three ‘victims’ of the play; three ordinary Irish people who protested against British rule, who hid by chance in the Mayor’s parlour fleeing from their aggressors. The cast and crew are to be congratulated for the outstanding job they did in performing this difficult piece of theatre.

A hot time in Mainohana

By Liam Sharp

We think of the term “sunburnt country” as being exclusively Australian, but late last year I was one of eleven students from De La Salle College who found it was a term which better suited our neighbours to the north. Flying out of Melbourne on a cold wet morning, I was one of a group of Year 11 students starting a 12-day journey to Papua New Guinea.

I had been in hot climates before but nothing could have prepared me for the wall of heat that hit me when the plane door opened in Port Moresby six hours later. Why was I wearing a jumper? I had been warned that summers in PNG are typically in the high 30s with 100 per cent humidity.

Needless to say the jumper was redundant. The purpose of the PNG trip was to volunteer at Mainohana Secondary School, run by the De La Salle brothers. Located only about 150km out from Port Moresby, the journey to the school, on a mostly potholed and sometimes unsurfaced road, took many hours. The bumpy conditions were exacerbated by the wooden benches of our truck, which looked like a reject from an episode of MASH, as we bounced our way along the windy mountain roads. Even though our bodies were bruised and sore by the time we arrived, our spirits were buoyed by the prospect of what lay ahead.

On our arrival, Mainohana’s Principal, Br Robert McLaughlin, outlined the two main projects we would be working on. These involved installing new pipes and replacing the tiling and concrete floor in the school’s kitchen, as well as refitting new windows and wire screens to ward off the mosquitoes in the school’s guest house.

To avoid the heat, we started work early in the mornings, alongside the school’s very comical maintenance staff, to get the work finished in the brief time we had. In reward for our hard work, Br Robert sent us off in groups to spend a night in a village with a student and their family. In the house we stayed in, there was no electricity, no running water, no plumbing, no phone line, and no front door or locks. The shower was a bowl of water behind a curtain. Going to the toilet? “Be sure to not fall into the hole”, was the warning. Food came from the garden behind the hut – it was certainly a lot less complicated than life in Melbourne.

After a solid ten days of hard work we had earned a couple of days ‘R and R’. We were fortunate to be there for Independence Day, and were honoured as special guests at the celebrations nearby, which included colourful performances in native dress of straw crowns and long grass dresses. We were treated like royalty.

Leaving Mainohana, before the trip back to Port Moresby, was definitely an event that I will never forget. The night before we left, a school assembly was held in our honour. The students sang songs and performed local tribal dances as a sign of thanks for what we had done at the school. We in turn were grateful to them for allowing us to experience their culture and way of life. I’m sure most of the De La boys will never forget the friendships they made and the memorable times they had while at Mainohana. We had some time for sightseeing in Port Moresby before flying home. One stop included, the Bermada War Cemetery, where we saw graves of Australian soldiers who fought along Kakoda.

I had never experienced anything like the PNG trip before. I soon got used to the heat and being called “white fella” and even the lack of modern amenities. There was more than enough happiness and kindness in the people we met to replace all of the material things we lacked. It was definitely a unique experience, one I will always treasure.

COOLIES’ INDIA – A PHOTOGRAPHIC ESSAY

Former Year 12 student Tim Howard was one of last year’s “Coolies”. Tim, an avid photographer, compiled this photographic essay for Roll Call detailing his experiences during his six weeks in India. The journey begins in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and gives a colourful insight into the daily lives of the people of Keelamudiman where the boys spent most of their visit refurbishing a Lasallian school.

DE LA SALLE STUDENT WINS NATIONAL LITERARY AWARD

Year 12 student, Jack Forbes, has taken out first prize in a national literary competition sponsored by Penguin Australia. Jack received a cash prize of $2,750 for his 16,000 word novella, The Settling, in the Somerset Celebration of Literature, held recently on the Gold Coast.

As the winning entry, Jack wins, as well as his monetary prize, a full editorial report, courtesy of Penguin Group (Australia).

Jack’s novella, which is a period piece, tells the story of a father and son who are making their way across country to bury their dead wife and mother in her homeland.

Jack told Roll Call he has been writing short stories for as long as he can remember and last year had one of his stories entitled Sundown published in the Melbourne University Anthology, My Place

Jack said he likes telling stories and would one day like to see his stories come to life on film.

Jack said it only took him about a month to write the novella. “Writing comes easily to me and always has.”

A GARDEN OF FRIENDSHIP

A fruitful partnership between Christ Our Holy Redeemer Primary School and De La Salle College was honoured recently at a special blessing by Fr John Magri of the school’s new Reflective Garden.

When Jack spoke to Roll Call he had received Penguin’s editorial report. He said the report was encouraging and Penguin have expressed an interest in publishishing the novella. The literary competition, which has been running for 18 years, is open to all current secondary students attending school in Australia and, after winning the Victorian section, Jack competed against students from other states to take out first prize for his manuscript.

The Somerset Celebration of Literature attracts national and international writers, who this year included Andrew Daddo, Andy Griffiths, Kate Forsyth, Matthew Reilly, Randa Abdel-Fattah, James Phelan and William McInnes.

The Reflective Garden at the primary school’s campus in East Oakleigh, will provide a physical link between the school and the Parish Church, as well as a reflective setting for the parish communities to come together.

The Garden is the culmination of a year of hard work by the students and community of the De La Salle and Christ Our Holy Redeemer under the Catholic Education Office’s VCAL Partnership Program.

The Primary school commenced plans for a Reflective Garden in its grounds more than two years ago. Stage One saw the school, together with Holmsglen College, clear the site and landscape the garden. Stage Two involved De La students, as part of their VET Building and Construction course, design and construct wooden seating for the garden.

The students were involved throughout all the design and construction phases and completed seating for more than 40 people.

The seats, which were installed by De La Salle Technology staff complement the garden and its natural environment. One of the seats has actually been built to wrap around a tree.

De La Salle students also worked alongside the primary school students to paint a large wall mural depicting the history of the site and school parent Trevor Harvey constructed a stone sculpture which is a focal point of the garden.

THE FACE OF MISSION ACTION DAY

THE CHANGING FACE OF EDUCATION AT DE LA

Some would say that not a lot has changed in the typical Australian classroom. A few years back Whyteboards replaced blackboards but apart from that it all still looks pretty much the same as it did 100 yeas ago. However, this year saw probably the biggest change in classroom teaching since the College was founded in 1912.

The new Netbook computer program, introduced this year, delivers the curriculum online to students both at school and at home. Students in year 7 and 10 were the first to receive their netbook computers as part of the College’s commitment to a one-toone computer profile by 2012.

The Principal, Br Paul Rogers, said the netbooks were already changing

ENRICHING THE CURRICULUM

This year, the College established a designated Homeroom for higher academic achieving Year 9 students in Mathematics, English, Science and the Humanities. This new curriculum enrichment model will give students the opportunity to learn at a different pace and do appropriately enhanced work to further their understanding in these core subjects.

The Assistant Principal Curriculum, Mr Stephen Young, said the new model was in response to recommendations

in the recent School Improvement Framework review. “The Reviewers found that while the College is excelling in many areas, there was a need to further lift the level of academic achievement, and to develop an improved culture of excellence, higher expectations and aspirations across the school community in Learning and Teaching.”

“The designated Year 9 Homeroom will focus on developing leadership skills, especially through community

the face of classroom teaching. “It is just wonderful to visit a classroom and see the engagement and collaboration that is happening,” Br Paul said.

“Netbooks have become the order of the day for Years 7 and 10 with a corresponding increase in engagement by the students.”

The Netbooks are used in conjunction with an eLearning interface called Moodle which is accessible in the classroom and at home. Rather than providing paper copies of homework and classroom tasks students can access the work directly from the computer and work on it any time they wish.

Moodle also allows parents to access their son’s gradebooks allowing parents to be more involved in their son’s education.

service activities and opportunities to assist other students in their year group, and beyond, who may be struggling scholastically,” he said. “There will be steady and regulated timetabled opportunities to maintain a high level of integration with their peers.”

“The class is together for core subjects but for electives and all extra-curricular activities the students are mixed with the rest of the year level. There is also a requirement that students accepting a place in the class must commit to significant involvement in whole-school extra-curricular life. Mr Young said that entry to the class is not seen as a permanent step aside from the rest of the group. “Places in the class are open to review and to movement in and out as suits individual needs.” In subsequent years the Miguel model will follow through into Year 10.

ATHLETICS

The annual De La Salle Athletics Carnival was held recently at Duncan MacKinnon. The Director of Sport, Mr Peter Harte, praised the boys for their effort and Homeroom spirit. “All the students made a real effort to get involved in the track and field events and the competition between the Homeroom Teams was both lively and spirited.”

“Despite Melbourne’s ‘four seasons in one day’, the attendance, participation and enthusiasm from the students was fantastic.”

This year Solomon were the overall winners with Hegarty 2nd and Roland 3rd.

OLD BOYS BACK AT DE LA SALLE

LUKE MARTIN (1990), (pictured right), has returned to De La Salle this year as Head of the Mathematics Department. This is Luke’s second teaching position at De La Salle since he graduated. Previously, he taught here from 1997-2005. Since graduating from De La, Luke has traveled extensively overseas, during which time he taught in Nepal and India. Luke is now married and has two young children. He is a keen cyclist and rides with a group of Old Collegians most weekends. Luke’s father Greg is also an Old Col and former De La teacher.

A TIME TO LOOK BACK — AND FORWARD

‘Wine in moderation, no women—and lots of song’, joked 89-year-old Br Julian Watson, when asked why he has remained so physically and mentally alert and active.

The question and answer were pertinent because many of the 131 Old Collegians who attended a reunion on 25 March at the Kooyong Tennis Centre remarked how fit Br Julian looked—as did the other five De La Salle brothers present who had taught at the school.

The reunion, for students who attended De La Salle before 1971, was part of the celebrations to mark the centenary of De La Salle College next year.

All Old Collegians remarked how fit all the ex-teachers looked as they stood up after being introduced by School Principal Br Paul Rogers. The others were brothers Christian Moe, Gerard Rummery, Finian Allman and Bill Good.

The brothers were not the only men in the room to have kept in good spirits and health. Among the older Old Collegians were Seth Counihan (born 1925), John Rawlings (1926), Michael Kennedy (1926) and Vince Gilfedder (1926).

Possibly the youngest ‘old boy’ was Richard Smith, born 1955.

The event was the first of three reunions this year. The others will be for students who attended between 1972 and 1991 and between 1992 and 2001.

GRAEME PENDER (1976) is back at De La Salle as the Religious and Moral Education Coordinator. He previously held the same position at Mazenod. After graduating from De La, Graeme completed a Bachelor of Education, Music, at the University of Melbourne.He has a Bachelor and Masters of Theology from the Melbourne College of Divinity, where he is currently undertaking his Doctorate. Graeme was a member of the Victorian Police Force for 16 years and is an accomplished musician, playing clarinet and saxophone. Graeme is married and has one daughter.

BR JOHN MITCHELL (1953) is back at De La Salle working in the College’s administration. Br John was the first of five brothers to attend the College; Peter (1956), David (1958), Paul (1965) and Mark (1973). Br John came into De La Salle’s Diocesan Scholarship Class in 1949 from St Anthony’s Primary in Glenhuntly. On completing his Victorian Leaving Certificate, he entered the Brothers’ Juniorate in January 1953, joining up again with other contemporary Old Collegians, Br John Kidd and Br Kevin Moloney. Since 1958, Br John has taught mostly in the primary departments of Lasallian schools in NSW, Queensland and in WA. Prior to his being appointed to Derby in WA, Br John spent 1991 and 1992 here on staff at De La Salle.

Between the older and younger were many old friends who welcomed the occasion to reminisce about old times. Perhaps it was the advancing years of those present but the occasion had an aura of gentleness and dignity which pervaded the camaraderie.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect was how current School Captain Angus Cramp described the differences in learning techniques and technology between now and past years.

To the fascination of his audience Angus compared the ‘talk and chalk’ teaching methods of former years with the ‘computer-aided learning’ of De La Salle today.

He described such learning aids as Twitter, Moodle, internet research and e-mail between teacher and pupil, not to speak of the College’s aim to have each student equipped with his own electronic notebook in the near future.

Br Paul invited all old collegians to the De La Salle centenary dinner at Crown Palladium on 18 August, 2012.

Noel Carrick (1953)

Where Are They Now?

Eugene Hyland (2002) is working as a photographer for the Leader Newspapers in Melbourne. Eugene started his career in the media on the Ballarat Courier

David Larkin (1992) works for News Limited and is the front man for local band Gun Street Girls. He is married and has a daughter Audrey (pictured).

Jason Richardson (1986) former Stawell Gift winner, is working with TVN and Channel 9 as a racing commentator.

Sam Johnston (1998) is working as the Media Sales Manager for APN Outdoors. Sam completed Arts at Deakin, and a Grad Dip in Media at Monash.

John Collins M.Th M.Ed, (1973) is working for the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference and lectures parttime in theology at Australian Catholic University.

Max Petronis (1988) is an assistant winemaker at Yering Farm Winery in the Yarra Valley. Max studied Applied Science at Monash and after doing a Short Course in Making Wines at home went on to study Wine making at university.

Michael Hill (1990) is the Managing Director of NuMode design and Construction and lives in Glen Iris with his wife and two children.

Alex Gow (2005) is playing guitar and lead vocals for local Melbourne indie band, Oh Mercy.

Michael Beer (2002) was selected to play in the Australian Test Squad. Michael is currently playing with the WA Warriors.

Edward Valent (2008) is in the UK working as an actor. He recently appeared in Spielberg’s Pacific

Jonathan Valent 1996) is a private investigator living in Bunninyong.

Bobby Valent (1970) is working in finance in Melbourne.

DE LA ON ICE

Sixteen year old Angus McCulloch started ice skating on his 11th birthday and by the time he was 14 he had won his first National Championship.

Last month Angus represented Australia in the Junior World Championships in Italy in both the individual events and the relay, where he and his team were placed 9th out of 40 countries.

Angus hopes to skate for Australia again next year when the Junior World Championships are held here in Melbourne.

As a member of the Australian Junior team Angus trains twice a day, sometimes up to 12 hours a day on ice.

His dream is to one day compete in the Winter Olympics.

As a speed skater

Angus is not afraid of taking risks. “I like the speed and the fact that it is an individual effort when I’m on the ice I feel like I am in total control of my physical being and I can go fast, really fast.”

He told Roll Call that he has had to sacrifice a lot to pursue his skating career.

“Last year I decided that I had to cut back on pursuits other than skating.”

“I have always been passionate about theatre and it was really hard to give that up.” In Year 9 Angus had the lead role as KoKo in the Hot Mikado and a support role The Wiz and was a member of the Young Australian Broadway Chorus.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Do you recognize anyone in this photo?

Do you know where they are now? We suspect it was taken in the early 60’s.

The rather cheeky looking chap in the back row is none other than Br Denis Loft.

Email kmartin@delasalle.vic.edu.au

Vale Fr Phillip O’Brien

On the 14th of March this year, Br Phillip O’Brien, Uncle Ray, passed away peacefully after 71 years of Lasallian service as a De La Salle brother. A quiet boy whose skinny legs once scaled the steps of the Tower building at Tiverton on his purposeful way to the handball courts, he was a ball-boy at the Australian Tennis Open at Kooyong, he coached the Sydney curtain raiser for the Australia versus England rugby test and was victorious in tennis against St Bede’s. He excelled as a batsman in Orange and bowled with accuracy at Mordialloc. But behind the athlete was the quintessential teacher, a man whose own needs were subordinate to those of his students. He was fiercely loyal to his schools, whether in his capacity as Headmaster, teacher, counselor or, in later years, the “quiet benefactor” of mothers groups and support committees. On the morning of the day my uncle died his robe was brought into his room; the symbol of his life, and the traditional prayer was shared: “St John Baptist De La Salle, Pray for us. Live Jesus in our hearts, forever”.

Br Phillip mentored many boys who not only reciprocated with eternal respect but were inspired to join the brothers. Was it his wisdom or his gentle dignified manner? Was it his ability to stay engaged with the community or his reluctance to see the imperfections in others, or simply his wicked charm and his insightful one-liners? I suppose it was the complete package, a true Lassallian “Renaissance man”. His gracious serenity as he approached death was expressed through a metaphor from his beloved cricket. “It is time to pull up the stumps and go home.” A great innings for a great man!

Mrs Mary Finn

Old Colls Football Club

De La Salle Old Collegians Football Club is this year once again in Premier Division in the VAFA. Greg McLoughlin is the new coach for the 2011 season, taking over from Dave Madigan who has coached the club since 2004. Greg is a former De La boy and is glad to be back “where he belongs” and to, hopefully, break the premiership drought of the past 20 years.

Forthcoming Reunions

1972–1991

Committee Room Caulfield

Centre

Performing Arts Centre

YEARS OF LASALLIAN EDUCATION