Roll Call - May 2013

Welcome to the first edition of Roll Call for 2013. With the excitement of the Centenary behind us we can concentrate on the new millennium. In this edition, not surprisingly, there is an unprecedented number of entries in the popular Where Are They Now column, no doubt due to the renewed connection between the College and its alumni cemented by the celebrations last year. In this issue we feature yet again some of the fascinating stories of the College’s talented Old Collegians. No doubt you will, as I was, be fascinated by the artistic endeavours of Anthony Breslin, whose recent shows at the Chapel Off Chapel Theatre were a sell-out. Anthony is about to open an artists’ hub in the former Uniting Church in Neerim Rd, Carnegie. Further up the road in Byron Bay, Simon Richardson (1987) has been elected the Mayor of the Shire and is hard at work keeping the place clean and green. We welcome our guest writer, David Fegan, who hit the streets recently for Roll Call to interview Tom Frost about his work on the streets of Melbourne after dark. We also have lots of success stories of our current students. Enjoy the read.

Kerry Martin Editor

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,

Thank you for latest Roll Call. It is a wonderful production, both as regards content and in its so-very-professional layout. Of course having the centenary to report guaranteed so many interesting articles and loads of great “Jonathan Hewett” photographs but the inspired setting out enhanced all these raw ingredients. It is a shame that they don’t hold award ceremonies for school magazines. This one (and the last!) would certainly win you a prize if I were a judge! Congratulations! The incidental articles were of much interest for me. You did a very fine job on our “De La Olympians”. I was privy to the research done by Br Peter Gilfedder and by Luisa Moscato regarding Jack Hoobin. When I was travelling to De La in the very early 1950s I seem to recall that he had a bike shop near the intersection of Hawthorn and Glenhuntly Roads. The other nostalgic piece was the letter from Paul Blair whom I remember well from primary school at St Anthony’s. He was one of my brother’s friends and he had a large influence on the first renovations of the Spencer Street Railway Station during the 1960s. It is one thing to compose wonderful prose, have plenty of interesting copy and have oodles of great photographs. It would seem that equally challenging must have been fitting all this material comfortably into twenty-two pages.

Br John Mitchell

Dear Editor,

I got my Roll Call today. Excellent. Congratulations. Loved your article on the Olympics. One small correction for page 8. It’s Paul Mullaly in the photo on the left, not John. Again — congratulations on another fine issue of Roll Call

John Bolt (1956)

Dear Editor,

I hope the De La Salle school community will join Linda and I in praying for Godspeed and safe return for our son Sapper Rohan Conlon (2005) of the 20th Explosive Ordinance Disposal Squadron in Brisbane, on his departure Melbourne Cup day, for his second deployment to Afghanistan. He will be in Afghanistan until June 2013. Rohan is 24 years old and joined the army in January 2006 after completing his VCE at De La Salle in December 2005. As well as being a Combat Engineer Rohan is a bomb disposal expert and a fully qualified medic with experience in treating combat injuries, and part of his role is to attend to Afghani civilians injured in the conflict. Linda and I take some comfort from the fact that he will be driving Bushmaster Armoured Vehicles on this deployment rather than patrolling on foot as he did last time. His brothers are also past pupils of De La Salle, Darra (2002) and Kieran (2007).

Regards, John Conlan

Cover Photo of Anthony Breslin by Jacquiline Barkla

From the Principal

Our Centenary year is over but the spirit remains. The occasions to bring so many of the College family together, and to celebrate what the College has been to so many over the years, has given us blessings too numerous to count. The College is alive and strong as it heads into the next century. This Roll Call celebrates and reflects the on-going life of the College as its spirit is lived out in the lives of so many wonderful Old Collegians. I am sure that you will find many interesting stories about those Old Collegians who continue to serve the needy youth in Melbourne city; serve the wider community in a position of leadership — the Mayor; have given their lives for our nation in times of war; or are playing at the highest levels of their sport. Life never sits still at school. We always have a drama production being planned, in the process of preparation, or just completed. One of those performing students has gone on to win a twoyear Scholarship to New York Academy. Andrew Rappos (2012) will begin there later this year. A VCE film maker — Darcy Conlan (2012) has won a full Scholarship to Swinburne. And our graduates from 2012 continued to do us proud with their VCE results.

This year marks the change of senior administration for the College. We have already welcomed three new senior Administration personnel to the College. Change is inevitable in schools and it should invigorate and provide new opportunities for its staff and students. We welcome our key personnel, among whom is a former Collegian who returns to De La Salle after almost 30 years in rural Victoria.

Seventy-five years is a long time for any person. In 2013 we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the receipt of the religious habit for Brothers Julian Watson, Christian Moe and Finian Allman. All three men have taught at De La at some time over the years and

Brother Julian is now retired and living in the Malvern community. All in their early 90’s, they all enjoy great alertness of mind and good health and are cherished members of their respective communities. Ad Multos Annos

As I prepare to step down as Principal at the end of this term, I wish to thank you all for a wonderful three years. I will cherish my involvement with our parents at Jan Juc, PTMs or Quiz nights, and the opportunity to meet so many Old Collegians at the football on Saturday afternoons. I have worked with a very professional group of committed and enthusiastic teachers who work hard to ensure the best for our boys. Our students are a highly respectful group of young men who themselves are eager and keen and full of promise. De La Salle is a most extraordinary and blessed community of people. I wish the community every best wish for the future.

Deo Duce! Brother Paul Rogers fsc

A new era for the College

One hundred years ago De La Salle College was founded as a Catholic boys school in Malvern. Since then the College has grown in stature and reputation earning its stripes as a sought after place for parents to entrust their son’s education. Over the course of the last century 19 Brothers have served in the role of Principal of the College. In 2009 the College was incorporated with the Board of Directors becoming responsible for the College. Now, and as De La Salle prepares itself for the next century of education, the College Board has decided to appoint a Lay Principal to take the College forward in its new millennium. This move comes at a time when the community of Lasallian Brothers in Australia is ageing and new recruitments are not keeping up with the demand for the management of the Brothers’ many and varied educational and social justice enterprises in Australia,

Papua New Guinea, Pakistan and New Zealand. The move to Lay Principalship will best position De La Salle College for the ever increasing and complex demands of future contemporary education. The transition from Brother Principal to Lay Principal is under way and the search for a new Principal has commenced. The current Principal and significantly, the last Brother Principal in that role, Br Paul Rogers fsc, has served the College for the last three years, and will therefore finish his tenure during this year. On behalf of Roll Call readers, we thank Br Paul for his contributions to the College as relayed through his regular Principal’s Column through his time at the College.

A Warm De La Welcome to New Senior Staff

Since he graduated from De La Salle College in 1976, Tom Ryan has spent most of his teaching career in Gippsland, first in Traralgon and then in Bairnsdale, where he was Deputy Principal, Pastoral at Nagle College for the last nine years.

This year Tom has returned to his beloved alma mater where he is the new Deputy Principal, Pastoral Care and Organisation. Tom says that coming back to De La feels like coming home.

“My experience at De La Salle College and in particular the example of the Brothers had a profound influence on my life. De La Salle is a place that is close to my heart.”

He attributes his passion for teaching to the De La Salle Brothers who taught him at Malvern.

“It was my experience of learning, community and faith at De La Salle that was to trigger a life-long passion and commitment to teaching and Catholic Education.”

Being back in Malvern means Tom can be closer to his two older sons who are studying here at university. His youngest son, Anthony, is following in his father’s footsteps and is in Year 6 at the College while his fourth son is on a gap year before commencing university next year.

After graduating from De La Salle, Tom completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Melbourne, where he would later return to do a Masters in Arts, specialising in Geography. He started his teaching career as a geography and religious education teacher and soon rose through the ranks, taking on a number of leadership positions in a range of areas including curriculum, pastoral care, staff development and student welfare.

Tom is committed to developing student leadership and creating opportunities for all students to develop and apply their talents. At Nagle College he was the mentor to the Student Senate groups as well as facilitator of Community Service and Social Justice activities within the College.

Tom still recalls some advice offered to him once by Br Damien Harvey while he was at De La.

“A statement that has stayed with me from Br Damian Harvey during my school days, in the context of embracing all that the College has to offer. ‘Don’t just ask what De La Salle can do for me, but what can I do for De La?’”

Another new member of the leadership team is Luke Kenealy. Luke is the new Head of Kinnoull Campus. Born in Melbourne, the youngest of four boys, Luke was

educated at St Luke’s Primary School and St Leo’s CBC in Box Hill. He graduated from Deakin University with a Bachelor of Education specialising in Language and Literature. Since then he has completed a Masters in Special and Inclusive Education at Monash and a Post Graduate Diploma in Education majoring in Career Development. For the past 15 years Luke has worked at Mazenod College in a number of different leadership roles including Year Level Coordinator at Years 11 and 12 and as the Careers Coordinator. He was also responsible for the implementation of the Catholic Education Office School Improvement Framework review at the College. He is married to Melita and has four children.

Also joining Tom in the College’s leadership team is Mark Gustincic, as the new Deputy Principal, Teaching and Learning.

Mark, who has a background in the visual arts, was previously the Deputy Principal at Caroline Chisholm College in Braybrook.

Mark completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Melbourne and has since then completed a postgraduate residency in Fine Art at the Academy of Fine Art in Slovenia and studied at the Global Leadership Institute in the United States.

Mark brings a variety of skills in teaching and learning technologies to the College. In his previous roles he has been responsible for the implementation of innovative and substantial teaching and learning reforms. His experience will no doubt be invaluable to the College as it prepares for the implementation of the new Australian curriculum. Mark and his wife Melissa live in East Malvern with their two young children.

VCE success in 2012

2012 saw another wonderful year for VCE results at De La Salle College. Our overall results have risen steadily over the past three years and 2012’s were no exception. The College celebrated the results at our Investiture of College Leaders and Academic Awards ceremony in February where our top achievers in each subject and 90+ students were acknowledged for their outstanding results. Some notable improvements include:

• 27 students (18.5%) achieved an ATAR above 90, compared with 13% in 2012

• 52 students (35.6%) achieved an ATAR above 80 compared with 33% in 2012

• 80 students (54%) achieved an ATAR above 70, compared with 45% in 2012

Outstanding individual achievements include:

• Stephen Ciavarella, a Year 11 student in 2012, achieved a perfect score of 50 in Further Mathematics

• Darcy Conlan (96.00) – was awarded a Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship at Swinburne University

• Andrew Rappos was awarded a US $10,000 scholarship to attend the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, a two year course. Andrew is intending to move there and commence the course in 2014 (see page 7).

Seventy two per cent of our students applying for a tertiary place received university offers and the remainder received TAFE or independent college offers. A small group began apprenticeships and a small group entered the workforce. All of the Year 12 VCAL students successfully graduated and had offers of further study or full time apprenticeships.

Twenty seven per cent of students chose courses in Management and Commerce and twenty two per cent in Humanities studies such as Arts and Law. This is a reflection of the interest in the wider community here at De La Salle. Twelve per cent chose studies in the Creative Arts and eleven percent in Engineering. Most popular destinations were Monash University, RMIT University, Swinburne University, University of Melbourne and Deakin University. Such wonderful results are the culmination

of many years of effort on the part of committed and hard working students, the support and encouragement of parents and the dedication of teachers and support staff. The College community can feel proud, collectively, of the outcome.

Chris Draffen was Dux of the College in 2012 with an ATAR of 99.2. Chris commenced his studies at the College in Year 7 after completing his primary studies at Brighton Primary School. While at De La, Chris was involved in a range of extra curricular activities including ACC Soccer, Cross Country and Table Tennis. He was also very active in College Debating. Chris, who has one older sister Gabi, commenced his Arts/Law Degree at Monash. Chris is interested in working in international relations.

Michael Swinnerton received an ATAR score of 97.25. Michael commenced his studies at De La in Year 7 after completing his Primary schooling at St Patricks in Murrumbeena. His extra curricular involvement at the College included ACC Soccer, Hockey, Debating and Cross Country. He was a College Leader in his VCE year. Michael has a younger brother — Matthew in Year 11 at De La, and a younger sister, Isabella. Michael is currently enrolled in Sport Management/Exercise and Sport Science double degree at Deakin University. Michael’s career ambition is to work with elite sporting teams and athletes in the field of exercise science.

Our Top Achievers for 2012

Back Row: Joe Connell, Alex Oliver, Charles Stewart, Paul Casey, Connor Tilbrook, Connor Wilson, Ryan Moody, Stephen Mitas

Middle Row: Rhyard Sahely, Matt Mullaly, Darcy Freeman, Nick Chant, Zach Spencer, Darcy Conlan, Matt Taylor, Miles Fabris, Jack Jopling

Front: Alex Stott, Andrew Rappos, Jordon Porozny, Michael Swinnerton, Chris Daffen, Nick Curwood, George Tang, Elliot Tamplin

iPad program

Those of us who have been through what could be described as traditional education will remember the burden of the pile of textbooks, dutifully carried to and from school, as a marker of the coming of age. What would start as a crisp pile of beautiful new copy, full of the hope of a new year about to unfold would, over time, become dog-eared and crumpled. The weight of the books was often borne in silence, part of being a secondary-schooler. What a contrast today to find vast libraries of information carried on a student’s iPad, barely the weight and dimension of a respectable exercise book. As well as the written word, the iPad contains scribing tools, drawing tools, access to a bank of innumerable images, calculator, calendar, camera, watch, map and weather vane. It conjures almost comical images of youngsters lugging a load worthy of a Victorian expedition. What has happened in addition to this rationalization of physical objects in education is perhaps the more remarkable thing. Students have all of the information they need for effective learning on hand at any time. They can access the information they need without a trip to the library or wait for the next timetabled class to ask the teacher. They can practice, revise, debate and recount at home with their classmates, well after parents have called curfew. Students can use the iPad’s camera to capture an image (which still tells a thousand words), record their thoughts as an audio file and map their thinking without needing any special artistic talent. And this is changing, or perhaps more accurately reinforcing what’s arguably most important about school, the relationships and interactions between people.

Our Year 7 students this year have experienced what the Commonwealth Government had quite purposely labelled several years ago as the Digital Education Revolution. Whilst not abandoning the tried and true, our Year 7s are embracing what education theorist and writer Marc Prensky describes as ‘doing new things in new ways’. Through the dedicated efforts of Mr Paul Maxted, Mr Shaun Buckley and the ICT Services department, supported by many teaching and support staff, our iPad-wielding Year 7s have picked up this ‘new way’ as effortlessly and seamlessly as a bag emptied of those weighty old textbooks.

By Mark Gustincic Deputy Principal,Teaching and Learning

Competing in Nationals

Alex De Medio, College Vice Captain and Captain of the Athletics Team, represented Victoria in the 2013 National Junior Championships held in Perth recently. Alex, who trains with the Doncaster Athletics Club, competed in the 400 metres and the 400 metre hurdle events. He made the final for the hurdles and ran a Personal Best of 49.5 seconds in the 400 metres, which is quite an achievement. Alex has been involved in athletics since he was seven years old when he joined Little Athletics. At the recent College Athletics Competition Alex was voted the most valuable member of the team.

Alex intends to compete in the Nationals again next year, which will be the last year he can compete at a junior level.

New York, New York

At a young age Andrew Rappos (2012) wanted to put his talents to work on the floor of a courtroom but when he takes up a scholarship at the New York Conservatory of Dramatic Art later this year he will be putting his talents to use in a very different way.

Andrew who graduated from De La Salle last year, was offered the $10,000 scholarship, after a successful audition at the Rising Talent Showcase in Orlando, Florida last year.

Andrew’s audition obviously impressed the judges as he was one of only seven rising stars to be offered the scholarship from a field of 250 young people from all over the world.

The scholarship will cover Andrew’s tuition for the two-year course but he will need to cover his living expenses while in New York.

Perhaps it was not surprising that when Roll Call spoke to Andrew he was working two jobs as well as studying at the National Theatre in St Kilda.

Andrew has always been interested in drama. “When I was in Year 4 at De La Salle I performed in my first Rock Eisteddfod. It was great fun.” From then on he was hooked, performing in every Rock Ed the College participated in, until it finished in 2009.

Throughout his time at the College Andrew has played major roles in many College productions including, City and Little Shop of Horrors.

Since leaving school he has been signed with a theatrical agent and is looking to get some local acting work before heading off for New York in December.

He said one of his best decisions at the College was to do a VET subject in performance in Year 11. He did a Certificate 3 in Performance at Sandringham Secondary College. “It was amazing, the best subject I have done. Everyone was just so passionate about acting. I used to want to be a lawyer until around Year 9 when I fell in love with performing.”

Vice Chancellor’s Award

Mrs Margaret McPhee who has taught Andrew drama since Year 9 said Andrew is passionate about performance.

“Andrew’s passion for the Performing Arts has been evident throughout his years at the College, beginning with his involvement in Rock Eisteddfod where he danced as a member of a group and also as a solo artist.”

“Andrew exudes a sense of wonder when involved in the dramatic

Darcy Conlan (2012) who took out the Award for De La Salle’s Best VCE film last year has been awarded the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for Design at Swinburne University. (Darcy will specialise in Film and Television). The scholarship will cover the cost of tuition for the three-year degree. Darcy has been making films since his early years at the College and one day hopes to work in the industry. “I wish to become a director or cinematographer working in America with a focus on feature films “I am grateful to Swinburne. All my hard work and that of my teachers in Year 12 had been noticed and rewarded.”

simon richardson’s wonder world

By Kerry Martin

When Simon Richardson was 19 years old he took a year off from his studies at Melbourne University to see the world. For a year and a half he satisfied his wanderlust, selling drinks and doughnuts to tourists on the French Riviera, working on boats in Israel and seeing most of the world.

Eventually he returned to Melbourne and completed his politics degree only to take off again, this time for Washington, where he studied International Relations at Georgetown University, specialising in Middle East and US Foreign policy, within the School of Foreign Service.

Somewhere along the way Simon’s passion for the environment was ignited and for most of his professional life since then he has worked tirelessly as a social activist and environmentalist.

Nowadays he lives in Federal, NSW, where he works as a secondary school teacher at the local Steiner School. After four years as a Green’s candidate on the Byron Shire Council, Simon’s environmental credentials earned him the position of Mayor in the recent local government elections.

During his mayoral campaign he told The Echo newspaper that he wanted to “preserve the past successes of the Greens in keeping the shire protected from over-development, and its communities strong”.

“I am passionate about the Shire. For all the challenges it faces, it’s a wonderful place to live and bring up a family,” he said.

“I am committed to ensuring we keep the magic of Byron alive; preserving its innovation, creativity and affordability.”

“The last four years have taught me that I can put ideas into action and that I truly love being a part of the process.”

After many years on the front line of environmental activism, Simon realised that his skills could be better utilised behind the scenes.

“I realised early I was better at the boring stuff — talking, writing and coordinating, so it was a better use of my passion to get into politics, rather than climb trees.”

“Working at the Steiner school I was very aware of the needs of our youth and wanted to help them have a positive and beneficial environment in which to live.”

“I believe in developing projects that have clear and tangible benefits for residents.”

Simon is active on a number of fronts in and around Byron Bay. He has campaigned for same sex marriage and rallied to keep big multi-national fast food chains out of the area. Currently he is developing a park and ride system to help with traffic and creating an innovation and a design and education strategy for the region.

Simon fondly recalls his days at De La Salle. ”I loved my days at De La. I had a great bunch of mates who were open to different things. We all played sport and many of us were creatively involved in school too.”

“I thank the College for providing me with the platform to help discover myself, develop my skills and walk out the doors with high expectations and a healthy self esteem.”

“I played football, cricket and athletics and participated in cross country. I also worked on the College’s Blue and Gold magazine for about three years and performed in plays and musicals. While at De La Salle. Simon had already demonstrated his belief in social justice and was the President of the street kids homeless group.

“I was involved in as many things as possible.” Simon is married to Jane and has two girls, Frida and Matilda.

Facing page: Newly elect Mayor of Byron Shire Simon Richardson

Right: Simon speaks with Prime Minister the Honourable Julia Gillard and Member for Richmond Justine Elliot

The College’s Global Mission

Every year, through the College’s Mission Action Day, students raise tens of thousands of dollars to go towards the De La Salle Brothers’ missions overseas. This year was no exception, with students committing $97,000. Monies go to projects in India, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka and Cambodia. This year Mission Action Day saw ominous clouds give way to a day full of great cheer and enthusiasm. A new course saw the students wind their way out along the Gardiner’s Creek Trail from DW Lucas Reserve back to Howard Dawson Reserve and then return to the start. Each step contributed to earning money for needy brothers and sisters in Australia and around the world. A promised total of around $97,000 is truly outstanding and is a testament to the commitment shown by our students and the generosity of those who donated.

Sri Lanka

Some of the funds from MAD last year went to the Brothers’ community in Mannar, Sri Lanka. As there is no public transport a bus is essential for picking up supplies and emergencies. MAD funds made this purchase possible and the (see below).

New Guinea

Some of the MAD money also goes to Papua New Guinea to support the work of the annual Year 11 community service programme. This work includes building and renewing buildings housing the Brothers’ school at Bomana, located 17 kilometres outside Port Moresby. Last year’s MAD funds helped renovate two science laboratories.

India

The largest proportion of MAD funds go to the College’s “Coolies” programme in India, an initiative founded by Br Denis Loft in 2004. Under the Coolies banner, staff accompany graduating Year 12 students to work at the Brothers’ missions in India. This year staff members Chas Thompson, Pepe Di Ciccio, Chris Martin and Tim Brodrick gave up their Christmas holidays to accompany the boys. The following account comes courtesy of Tim Brodrick.

India! Ah the exotic east — land of mystery and intrigue. Talk to anyone who has been to India and you will be told of interminable train journeys, fiery food, suspicious toilet facilities, beggars and poverty, fakirs and sadhus, and lungis and dhotis, and manyheaded and armed gods and goddesses. Those who have not been there always approach India with trepidation but in the knowledge that no day will be drab, no day will be without drama, every day will challenge preconceived notions about road rules and crowds. This is why we travel to India. Not as the third son lost to the titled lands seeking his fortune with the East India Company, but as modern man and women who live basically protected lives who do not worry about the water, education or even electricity. People who know that they will not have to compete with hundreds of others for a seat on the train. We seek adventure! And so it was with the Coolies of 2012, 21 young men and four staff, one of whom was experiencing India for the first time.

True to the experience, all of the Coolies leapt head-first into the experience. There were no shrinking violets and no complaining. The first test was the road side Dal Vada and Kanji. After initial reluctance they were a popular item. The next classic Indian experience involved a long train ride and the first contact with beggars, the handicapped, and Chai. ‘Chai!’ ‘Chai!’ became a familiar refrain — and for five rupees a bargain. At our destination a mixup left us stranded momentarily. Taxi rides were negotiated and then the Indian experience was further fleshed out. We had to feed the Taxi drivers and then pay them double “because the road was worse than first thought”. I love India.

The Boy’s Town cook embraced the challenge of an increase of 25 new mouths. Every dish was a culinary delight and such quantities!! The boys hoed in with gusto. Indian food held no fears, and for some of the boys provided an opportunity to eat with their hands!

After the first visit to Madurai, crowded on a bus that could hold no more, but did, many of the boys attended the evening meal in dhotis wrapped expertly around waists.

The next visit into Madurai and the

clothes of every hue and design. Some boys turned up late to a meeting point claiming their tailor had kept them longer than they expected. The next day the autorickshaw brought new clothes to the door. These early days reflect the enthusiasm and energy our boys brought to the Coolies experience. The working day was long and hot. It was often physical and dirty. Yet not a word of complaint was heard. The boys enjoyed each moment as a

wonderful learning experience. The amount of work completed, be it painting, digging, carrying, washing, scraping, demonstrated their dedication. Br Chris Soosai fsc could not believe the amount of work that the boys completed.

The work completed, the group began the travel around India. For those who have travelled in India, it is ‘the journey’ that gives the most satisfaction. The train and bus are always full of interest, are always slow, always late, always full of characters.

The travels took us to significant Christian sites such as Goa and Kochi. We visited historical cathedrals standing beside the grave of St Francis Xavier. His bones are still visible! The final historical village of Hampi took us to a Hindu ancient city where we wandered through temples of marvellous proportions, depth and intricacy. The boys really enjoyed the pantheon of Hindu Gods, particularly the Elephant headed son of Shiva, Ganesha. They left as boys but returned as men of the world.

Anthony Breslin’s tribal instincts

Anthony Breslin (1984) has been described as one of Australia’s most original, unique, eclectic, and evocative artists. His artistic career has included production design for theatre, television, film and music videos, as well as the creation of his own public theatrical installations and mesmerizing events.

His passion, however, is painting and this he has done with much success as the freshness and diversity of his works have seen him achieve a cult-like status with sellout exhibitions around Australia and shows in Europe, the UK and Asia. The global retailer IKEA even sells one of Breslin’s designs on its decorative wall-art posters.

Breslin’s latest artistic endeavour Trybe, which enjoyed a sell out season at Chapel Off Chapel recently, was described by the critics as a “visceral experiencechallenging the boundaries of dance, art, music and film”.

The production took place atop a huge canvas on stage which throughout the course of the evening was transformed by Breslin, as he leapt about with brushes and paint buckets, to create a huge canvas (see right). Trybe was driven by a different form of storytelling incorporating acting, dance, mime, live painting, projection, music, and multi-media the show explored themes of cross cultural/ethnic unity, and environmental and social responsibility.

“My productions plots revolve around my belief in the beauty of human struggle, and my faith in spiritual/ personal transcendence through this struggle.”

‘With my paintings I want to engage and seduce my audience physically so as they want to touch the work or at least to examine the surface closely through sheer curiosity.”

Breslin’s sell-out shows in Perth, the Gold Coast and the Melbourne and Sydney Art Fairs in recent years have earned him a cult-like following with many art lovers, from young children to serious art collectors. His next exhibition opens in July in Western Australia.

Breslin’s fundamental passion is painting. Here his innermost visions are colour-saturated and object-laden onto large canvases, resulting in bizarre fantasy-world abstracts, whimsical bugs and commanding off-beat heads.

Based in Carnegie in a former Uniting Church minutes from where he grew up, Breslin has created an artistic sanctuary where artists and the public come together to engage in painting, drama, and soon to open a coffee shop called Cafe Palette.

In 2010 the top floor of the church was burnt out and since then Breslin has devoted his time to restoring the building to its original state complete with a gallery and all-purpose arts space.

Breslin said he was always good at drawing, and in Year 10 he was doing Year 12 work. “I loved Art and English and Mrs Slater, the Art teacher would let me work in the art room during lunch time.”

By Kerry Martin

When he left De La Salle he went on to study Fine Art at the then Huntingdale Technical College.

Breslin is very interested in philosophy and believes all kids should have to learn about how they think. “Philosophy underpins everything that we do and it makes kids question, and not accept everything.”

“Ethics is something that we should think of. The inner world versus the outer world.”

In his late 20s Breslin discovered Buddhism and these days he takes his four year old son to Dharma classes. His Gallery reflects his spiritual aesthetic. In between Breslin’s canvases the walls are adorned with religious icons from many ancient religions.

It is fitting that he has ended up working in a church. “I like churches. They have an inner peace about them and must be appreciated on a spiritual level and an aesthetic level.”

His fascination with tribal imagery was ignited when he was very young when he won a Five Star trip to Africa.

“It was a very significant point in my life. My brother had just died and Africa really resonated for me.”

“These days tribal symbols such as jewellery and tattoos have been taken out of context by those who wear them.”

“We wear them but they don’t mean anything to us.”

At the end of the year he will travel to Papua New Guinea to spend time with the tribal communities in the Highlands. He will travel with a film crew which will be making a documentary about his work.

The Gallery does have a certain spiritual serenity about it. When I arrived the door was open and I felt welcome. This is certainly Anthony’s intention, and he hopes for the gallery to become a local hub. “I want to support local artists and open up my Gallery to the community.”

Breslin is an artist who is generous with his talents. He sponsors Yooralla and runs drama and art classes for its members.

Anthony Breslin’s gallery is at 254 Neerim Rd, Carnegie

Taking it to the streets

Throughout his life, music has taken Tom Frost (1952) to a lot of places. As an accomplished jazz pianist he has played in just about every town hall, hotel and piano bar in Melbourne. These days Tom hangs out after dark in a very different setting — on the streets of Melbourne taking his message to the city’s homeless.

Tom discovered his gift for piano at an early age thanks to a Sr Helen from Oakleigh who nurtured his talents throughout his primary years. When he started at De La Salle in Year 7 it was Br Anthony who assumed the role of music tutor. Tom fondly recalls Br Anthony’s encouraging influence while at De La Salle between 1949 and 1952.

“He had the choir and always encouraged me with my exams and practice and that sort of thing. He cared for anybody who had musical skills,” says Tom, who recalls the Brothers as being “just outstanding”.

Encouraged by Br Anthony, Tom continued to study privately whilst at De La, and eventually was introduced to the world of jazz through a Mr Bradley, who was a professor of music at the University of Melbourne. “I studied with him and then somehow I wandered off into the world of jazz.”

In the 1990s Tom was selected as the Melbourne rehearsal pianist for Barbara Streisand, having been a regular accompanist to performers around Melbourne. In the 1970s he was the backing pianist for Allison Durbin for her numerous gigs in Melbourne.

Nowadays, Tom plays a lot of church music, as well as adding choir singing to his musical repertoire. This year, he will be doing the ministry of music at Holy Spirit Community.

Between gigs Tom has worked in a range of roles including the manager for RCA records in the late 70’s and national sales manager for Gillette. These days Tom works three days a week with the Preston Motors Group in Oakleigh to keep his mind active, but with all his close mates from school gone, he has found himself looking for a new challenge.

“I’m the only one left and I keep on asking, what do you want me to stay here for? I know why, I’m doing what I’m doing and I need

Tom found his challenge with a group called the Holy Spirit Community Street Ministry and every Friday night he sits himself down on Swanston St, in between McDonald’s and Hungry Jack’s, providing an ear for the homeless.

them religion. Our function is to listen to them, let them talk to us, let them talk about all sorts of things,” says Tom, who is joined by

“They (the homeless) are very, very kind and caring people. Once they’ve got your trust, they trust you. Friday night is a fantastic, lovable experience and I intend to do it as long as I can, every Friday night,” says Tom.

Tom talks at length about several of his regulars, mentioning about one woman in particular “I learnt more about that lady’s life in two hours than most people would in a few months.”

Tom was introduced to the Ministry through a very special friend whom he almost married. “Her name was Francis and I met her when I was in rehabilitation for a hip operation.”

When Tom finally came out of hospital after a year, Francis would visit him every Saturday at his home in Hughesdale. He said they would pray together and it was Francis who showed Tom a type of Catholicism that nobody else could have done, not even his local priest.

“She changed me a lot I tell you. I mean I was an individual, probably like a lot of the men — I lived for today, I worked for today, religion was good, it was there, but it wasn’t that important. And now my religion is vital.”

David Fegan is a freelance music writer who regularly contributes to several Melbourne music magazines.

Photograph (left) James Eracleous

A Company of Hounds and Scoundrels

The latest theatrical partnership between the College and Sacre Coeur was a sell-out success. Over three performances, laughter filled the Phoenix Theatre, for the double bill of That Scoundrel Scapin directed by Margaret McPhee and The Real Inspector Hound directed by Andrew Murrell. First on the program was Scapin, which featured a young and relatively inexperienced cast ranging from Years 9–11, whose energy and enthusiasm gave wings to the unscrupulous protagonist, Scapin, brilliantly played by Young Sohn. The second show on the bill was the hilarious Tom Stoppard play, The Real Inspector Hound. The director, Andrew Murrell congratulated the cast for their efforts — “their teamwork, passion and energy brought this comedic exploration of the human condition to life”. Max Stephens and Harry Thompson were marvellous as the theatre critics, and the audiences delighted in the ludicrous situations that unfolded before them.

50 Year+ Reunion

Late morning, mid-March. A bunch of fellows is milling about before a closed door like a yard-full of sheep awaiting the shearer’s attention. But, hang on; most of these blokes — this author included — don’t have much wool left to be shorn. Certainly not as much as we had five or six decades back when our locks were long and lustrous and a short back and sides (for two bob, if you knew the right barber) was the only haircut any Melbournebased shearer knew.

Twelve o’clock and the closed door swings wide. The flock shuffles up the steps and the annual De La Old Boys lunch is under way. This is a lunch for seriously old boys. No one under 65 allowed in. Yes, that’s pensioner territory but, hey, while we might not be spring-heeled jacks these days there’s undeniable quality in this bunch.

Let’s start — where else? — with some sporting notables. Over there is John “Kanga” Kennedy (class of 1948), revered to this day by both Hawthorn and North Melbourne AFL fans. Curiously,

John has left his famous raincoat at home. Nearby is Rene Gehrig (class of 1946) who was active in the early years of the Old Coll’s footy team and then ditched football to join the OLOS Ski Club. (Your correspondent knows this because he later followed the same traitorous path.)

At another table is John Dillon, legal eagle, ruckman with the Old Colls and after his playing days, long-serving president of the Victorian Amateur Football Association. Bernie Slattery is here too, former College Captain and outstanding runner and footballer, and John McBeth, schoolboy sprinter of note.

And that’s Trevor Vincent at the 1954 table. I haven’t seen Trevor for 59 years and even in those days I only saw the back of him. And that from a great distance. Trevor was the quiet Year 11 chap who emerged from obscurity to win, by several furlongs, the Open Mile at the 1954 school sports. So comprehensively did he spreadeagle the field that this writer immediately retired from athletics. My humiliation was assuaged, however, when

a few years later Trevor streeted a rather higher quality field to win the 3,000 metres steeplechase Gold Medal at the Perth Commonwealth Games. That partially restored my wounded pride. But there is much more to talk about over this lunch than sport. Maybe that’s a reflection of the breadth of education we received at De La Salle. Using my table as an example, within salt-passing distance of me are the aforementioned John Dillon, retired army officer Peter Stokes, former union organiser (as well as former College captain) Gerald Mercer, university academic Peter Juliff and retired diplomat Michael Cogan. We reminisce, we talk about books we have read and are reading (and of course we swap notes). We talk about newspapers, critically, I might add. About the just announced retirement of the Pope. About politics, and perhaps inevitably, about schools, then and now. A pertinent topic that last one, in these days when multi-billion dollar programmes are mooted as the must-have solution to all educational shortcomings. When any private school is billed as

“exclusive”, at least by one daily newspaper. And when politicians, academics and the media fret endlessly about declining standards in Australian schools.

I can’t answer for today’s De La Salle but I trust that its aims and standards stand firm. As I look around the reunion lunch, at tables of grey-haired men talking, listening, laughing, remembering, I see not a flock of sheep but a collection of civilized souls. The breadth of their interests, their achievements in family life and in the wider world, their evident civility likely owes most to the families who nurtured them. But it also owes much to the school they were fortunate to attend.

To the “values”, as one Prime Minister would describe it, they absorbed in Stanhope Street. De La exclusive? De La academically deficient? De La socially underweight? De La with any reason at all to apologize? Don’t make me laugh.

Tom Duggan (1954)

Class of 1982 Reunion

Charged with the good will generated by the College’s recent Centenary celebrations, the class of 1982 gathered at the end of last year for their 30 year reunion at an informal function at The Angel Tavern in Malvern. More than 50 Old Collegians attended and had a great night reminiscing about their days at De La and exchanging stories of their activities since leaving school. Whilst some girths had expanded and some hairlines had receded, this was more than compensated by great stories being exchanged (and some stories grew bigger as the night wore on). We are pleased in this edition of Roll Call to be able to publish this snapshot of the Class of 1982.

Frank Cannata works in the garden/ landscape industry and lives in Preston with one child.

Chris Hawkins is based near Rosebud, has three children and works in the hospitality industry.

Brian O’Shannessy has two children, lives in Berwick and works in the automotive industry.

Pat Docherty lives in Burwood, has two children and runs a finance broking business.

Sandro Pozzebon is a fireman, has two children and lives in Ascot Vale.

Michael Stokes is an Information Systems Manager for Cabrini Health, lives in Bendigo with four children, aged 13 to 21 years.

Adrian Barry has recently moved back to Malvern after an extended stay in Kyneton. Adrian has four children and is a selfemployed carpenter.

Michael Ferguson is a plumber living in Emerald and has three children.

Danny Marrinon lives in Notting Hill, has one child and works in the air compression industry.

Cliff Rowe is an electrician living in Melbourne.

James Ryan lives in Melbourne and operates an online education business in the financial planning industry.

Jeff Gleeson is a barrister with five children and lives in Hawthorn.

Brendan Serong lives in Caulfield and is employed in sales in the tobacco industry.

Anthony Sidoti works in the financial services industry for Colonial First State Customs Solutions. He lives in Selby and has three children.

Mark O’Dowd lives in Ballarat, has two children and is currently taking a sabbatical after employment in the banking and car finance industries.

Michael Kendall is an investment advisor and has worked in a variety of roles with JB Were for over 20 years.

Paul Gleeson is a principal at St Scholastica’s Catholic Primary school in Burwood, has two children and lives in Glen Waverley.

Paul’s oldest son, Matthew, completed his VCE at De La in 2012.

Kevin Williams is employed in technical sales within the agricultural industry, and after a stint in Western Australia is now based in Port Macquarie with his three children.

Leon Teague has one child, lives in Melbourne and works as a children’s entertainer.

Adrian Parsons lives in Malvern, has three children and owns a wholesale cut flower business based in Sunshine.

Paul Peers Barlow has owned his own hair salon in Glen Iris for 26 years, has two children and also lives in Glen Iris.

Joe Brogno lives in Blackburn South, has two children and owns a BMW service business with outlets in Canterbury and Essendon.

Bernard Docherty lives in Glen Iris, has three children and runs his own financial services business.

Paul Lynch flew in from Norway, en route to the Cook Islands, where he has lived for many years. Paul has one child, and is a lawyer.

Maurice Patane has three children, lives in Malvern and works in the financial planning industry.

Brendan Lyons has two children, lives in Blackburn and works in the garden/landscape industries.

Pat Allan lives in Warrnambool as a primary school teacher at the local Catholic school.

David Sinclair lives in Melbourne and works in the IT industry. Damien Hellard worked as a consultant in OHS and HR in the hospital sector before becoming a landscaper.

Neil McKinley is about to move to Yamba , NSW. He works in the refrigeration industry and has three children.

Joe Zita lives in East Hawthorn and works as a building surveyor.

David Kight has two children, and is currently on a sabbatical from being a primary school teacher. He has recently purchased a Kelly Sports franchise where he will develop sport training courses at primary schools in regions of Melbourne.

Matt Conroy travelled in from Busselton WA where he owns a tree lopping business.

Matt won the award for most children from the 1982 class with six children, all of whom still live at home.

Richard Callaghan lives in Canberra and works as an associate professor in cancer research having spent 19 years in the UK working at Oxford University.

Tony Giannone still looks like he could run a 100 metres in less than 10 seconds. He works in the fitness personal training industry. Tony lives in East Malvern and has two children.

Dino Aleardi is currently contracting as a Civil Engineer and lives in Preston.

Killian Cheah is a chartered accountant running various businesses and working part time at the Catholic Education Office. David Cotter lives in Mont Albert, works in the Aged industry as CEO with BassCare and has three children. David’s oldest son, Patrick, completed Year 12 at De La in 2011.

Stephen Hanson lives in Blackburn. He works as a Building Surveyor and has two children.

Tony Bates is the Executive Director at Victoria Police. He has two teenage children and lives in Essendon.

Dan McManus has five children and operates his own electric forklift business.

Michael Dolan lives in Melbourne and is a policeman.

Mark McDonald was the “sliding doors” attendee of the night. On his way to a romantic dinner with his wife, Mark stopped by The Angel Tavern for a drink only to find 50 of his former school mates celebrating their 30 year reunion. Mark expedited the city dinner and quickly rushed back to the pub later on. Mark works in the building/construction industry, has five children and lives in Caulfield.

Diamond Anniversary

Congratulations to Brs Julian Watson, Christian Moe and Finian Allman, who this year celebrate 75 years with the De La Salle Brothers. All three men have taught at De La at some time over the years and Brother Julian is now retired and living in the Malvern community. In their early 90’s all enjoy great alertness of mind and good health and are cherished members of their respective communities.

Our Lasallian Centenarian

From the Archives

The photo from this edition of From The Archives was sent to us by John Baron (1962). The photo of Jack Huston, John Hanrahan and John Baron was taken by John Spence on a Year 12 retreat at Watsonia in 1963. The caption on the back of the photo reads, “Smoko in John’s room”. John assured us that smoking certainly was not permitted at the College in the 1960s but obviously from the photo some of the boys were experimenting behind closed doors. John Huston passed away some years ago but if anyone knows the whereabouts of John Hanrahan please contact Roll Call.

One hundred years ago on the 20th of May, Br Oliver Cajetan was born in Gisborne, New Zealand. In 1932, before he was even 20 years old, he joined the De La Salle Brothers at his Reception of the Robe at Cootamundra in NSW. For the past 82 years, Br Oliver has served as a member of the Order in a number of the Brother’s communities including, Armidale, Surrey Hills, Cronulla, Katoomba, Beaudesert and New Plymouth in New Zealand.

A passionate lover of the outdoors, Br Oliver preferred farming to teaching and even in his retirement, where he lives at Villa La Salle at Southport in Queensland, he still tends the garden, especially the roses. Br Oliver was the first New Zealander to join the Brothers and is still an ardent All Blacks Rugby Union supporter. He still takes daily walks and has earned the reputation as a very good scone baker. Although Br Oliver has never taught at Malvern, his gentle and compassionate nature, (and his reputation for excellent scones), are well known and there will be many in the community who will join with him on the 20th to celebrate this marvellous milestone.

Happy Birthday Br Oliver!

Old Collegians Football

For season 2013, planning and training commenced way back in November and the pre-season seemed to be never-ending. With the season kicking off on April 13 we played practice matches far and wide against fellow VAFA clubs University Blues and Old Melburnians, whom we defeated comfortably, and against a strong Old Scotch where we were able to see younger and newer players press for selection in the lead-up to Round One.

The biggest news to hit the Old Collegians football club was the return of Old Collegian, ex-AFL player and Hawthorn premiership player Trent Croad, who gave the Club a tremendous fillip when he arrived at the first training session in November, and his leadership and ability to encourage and raise expectations with our young playing group has been a terrific bonus for the Club.

The first game saw a terrific win over the powerful Old Xaverians Football Club in a very hard-fought, but extremely high standard match to help kick-start what we hope will be a successful season for all teams. Long-time observers Tony O’Callaghan, Barry Lyons and the indefatigable Col Glover all agreed that the quality of football on offer was outstanding and that season 2013 had kicked off in style with a great win.

To get the players into shape, the Club relies heavily upon the time and efforts of its fitness team, and over the last few years we have been very lucky to have Rob Bonnici, joined this year by Michael Brown, who last year was the Under 19 Premiership coach for the club and was acknowledged as the Under 19 coach of the year by the VAFA.

The Club is led off-field by Old Collegian Richard Williams as President and Secretary Simon Humphrey, father of Old Collegians and current players Ben and Tom. The coaches for season 2013 are Greg McLoughlin in his 3rd year (father of current student Jack), along with John McDonough and Damon Paull as his assistants. Dom McInerney as the reserve coach is looking to defend his back-to-back premierships, Steve Brown takes over as 3rd XVIII coach and Simon “Plugger” Brown, current staff member at the College, has taken the reins as the Under 19 Premier coach with Michael Hogan as the Under 19 Gold coach. The Super rules team, our over 35’s team is being led by Andrew Mackintosh and assisted by an army of self-proclaimed legends and superstars

and the more social Club XVIII team is again led by Tom Kovarik. The Club’s on-field leaders are Old Collegians David Lowe, Sam “Frankie” Pickett, Jacob Gotch and Justin Baxter.

Along with Croad, the Club has some exciting newer younger players including Harry Haley, Seb Gotch, Michael Stizza, Charlie Anathassiou, Josh Fisher, Dec Freeman and Dave Convery, all from our Under 19 teams, supported by ex-Olympian Mark French and the returning Olmo Salvatore and Ben Nethersole along with an injury-free Damien Hale.

All football clubs rely heavily upon volunteers and the VAFA recognised the tireless efforts of Old Collegian John Bolt with a certificate of Merit for his work with the football club, where he has been a committee member for 28 years, was treasurer for 5, match day official for all that time, council liaison person and ground manager, where he was a leading figure in seeing the club undertake numerous projects including the two additions to the social rooms, the installation of an electronic scoreboard and closer on-going relationships with the College and the Old Collegians Association.

Each week there is a game at Waverley Park where either the senior teams or the Under 19 teams will be playing, and we look forward to seeing you down there supporting your football club. For more information about the fortunes of your Old Collegians visit: www.delafootball.com.au.

Home games for the season when you can come and see your Old Collegians football club at Waverley Park where the seniors start at 2.00pm are listed below:

May 25 V St Bedes Mentone Tigers – (La Salle Cup)

June 22 V Old Xaverians

29 V Beaumaris

V Uni Blacks

17 V Collegians

August 24 V St Bernards

At each home game there is a lunch — members and supporters are more than welcome. Bookings through Martin Kelliher on martin.kelliher@gmail.com or Richard Williams on richard.williams@ woodards.com.au

Marty Kelliher Club Secretary

Where Are They Now?

Ashton Agar (2011) has been selected for the Australia A Team and could be playing for Australia in the next Ashes series. As one a group of six talented young recruits awarded a lucrative Hampshire Academy Scholarship, Ashton is about to embark on a season-long tour of the UK that coincides with the Ashes series. Ashton’s talents as a spin bowler have not gone unnoticed by the selectors who chose him to go to Chennai earlier this year to give the Test Squad some practice facing spin bowlers. Based in Perth, where he plays for the WA Warriors, Ashton has had an impressive debut into professional cricket. Last year he was selected for his first Shield match against NSW, replacing fellow Old Collegian, Michael Beer, who was ill at the time.

David Hickey (College Captain, 1993) was awarded an MBE (Member of the British Empire) by Her Majesty the Queen. His citation reads: David Thomas Hickey, Head, Olympic Park Venues and Infrastructure Delivery, LOGOG. For services to London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. David also had two brothers who attended De La: Martin (1995) a commercial pilot and Andrew (1998) a sports manager with IMG. His father John graduated from De La Salle in 1962.

Robert Newton’s (1983) new novel, When We Were Two, has been published by Penguin Books. Robert worked as a full-time firefighter with the Metropolitan Fire Brigade before becoming a writer. His first novel, My Name is Will Thompson, was published in 2001. Since then he has written four other novels for young people, including Runner, which was published by Penguin in 2005. He lives in Melbourne with his wife and three daughters.

Patrick Cross (2009) pictured left, is a Melbourne based comedian who did a series of ‘stand-up gigs’ as part of the 2013 Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Matthew Curtain (1992) was the Weightlifting Competition Manager on the London 2012 Olympics. Since then he has relocated to Scotland in preparation for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Anthony Vanzella (2006) runs his own graphic design business. Martin Hickey (1995) is a pilot with Ethiad, based in Abu Dabi.

Andrew Hickey (1998) is working with IMG, organising golf tournaments around the world.

Vincent Cerra (2000) and his wife Leah are pleased to announce the birth of twins of Maximus and Amelia.

Michael Brown (2003) is a Physical Education teacher at St James College. Michael’s brother Simon works at De La as Sport Assistant.

Francis Cormack (2003) is a Humanities and Religious Education teacher at St James (pic right).

Chris Dunn (2008) with Paul Stewart (1978) Fr Quyen Vu (Bankstown) at the site of the new Jesuit Secondary College in Kasait, East Timor. Chris and Paul were working in East Timor with the ALMA nuns.

Nick Oorloff (1995) competed in the London Olympics. Liam Poulton (2005) completed the 2012 Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht race aboard Rush. The crew completed the race in three days and 22 hours in 30th position. Liam lives in Brighton and designs plumbing systems for large scale commercial developments. Above: Liam docking in Hobart with his father, who was a fellow crew member.

Nick Farrow (1993) has been based in New York for the last 14 years where he works for JP Morgan. Nick is married with one daughter.

Johnathon Molloy (1989) the Lead Nurse at Tripler Army Medical Centre in Hawaii, and his partner, are proud to announce the arrival of their daughter Kylie Sharon Hawley-Molloy. Kylie was 5lbs 7.6oz and is absolutely adorable. Welcome to the De La community Kylie. Tom McIlroy (2003) has taken up a position on the Canberra Times. Tom previously completed an internship at the Centre for Politics and Journalism in Washington and the Houston Chronicle.

The following Old Collegians were at the 50+ Reunion in April John Whelan (1941) was a CPA and worked with Victoria police for 26 years. John’s three brothers Kevin, James and John also went through the College. He has been married to Maureen for 61 years.

Anthony Wright (1962) was an Physics teacher at Glen Waverly Secondary College and a former Australian Chess Champion. Paul Wright (1959) was a veterinarian scientist specialising in animal reproduction.

Kel Ryan (1963) was a law clerk before joining the Army. He was a Lieutenant Colonel and served for 24 years. He is currently completing a PhD at James Cook University in advocacy for defence force families.

John Batista (1964) worked as a surveyor and lectured at Swinburne and RMIT universities. His sons Anthony and Michael also went to De La Salle.

Patrick Sheedy (1962) was at De La Salle for one year and sent his three sons Grant, Adam and Mark to the College.

Bill Tighe (1963) has lived in Albury for 35 years and has been active in the local football clubs.

Laurie Neville (1961) after a two year stint with the Brothers in Sydney joined the police force, where he worked in the Fraud Squad. He later joined the Law Institute and lectured in the Faculty of Law at the University of Melbourne.

Chris Sargeant (1961) was the Service manager for Rheem Electrical.

Br Brendan Crowe (1960) and his five brothers all attended De La Salle College, Malvern. Br Crowe spent most of his time in PNG and is now retired at Mentone.

James Cogan (1961) worked as an investment banker for Credit Suisse and as a private consultant. His three sons Michael, Terry and Phillip all attended De La Salle College.

Michael Cogan (1955) after six years in the seminary left and joined the public service. He worked for the Department of Foreign Affairs and was based in Seoel, Jakarta, Apia and Washington. He lives in Canberra.

Brian Wignal (1961) was an Air Traffic Controller at Tullamarine until he retired.

Peter O’Brien (1954) worked for the Broadcasting Control Board (now ACMA) and has three children and nine grandchildren.

Peter Stokes (1955) studied at Duntroon and rose to the rank of Colonel. He served in PNG, United States, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Since retiring from the army he has been the head of the Spastic Society of Victoria and the Guide Dogs Association. Peter’s older brother Ted also attended the College.

John Kennedy (1948) studied commerce at Melbourne before joining Shell. He was appointed the first chief accountant at Safeway.

Peter Juliff (1955) was a Professor of Information Technology at Monash, where he was the Foundation Chair in IT, and Deakin universities. He was the inaugural Emeritus Professor at Deakin University.

Bill Soding (1943) was the Manager for Victorian Superannuation Fund and Company Secretary for Rocla Industries.

Vin Gilfedder (1944) was a civil engineer and designed roads. He designed the road from Stony Rises to the South Australian border. He later worked for the City of Warnambool.

Michael Kennedy (1943) was a Pharmacist whose five sons all went to De La Salle.

Upcoming Reunions

Sergeant Blaine Diddams (1989) was killed in July last year during an engagement with insurgents in Afghanistan.

Sergeant Diddams was a member of the Special Operations Task Group and was from the Perthbased Special Air Service Regiment (SASR). He was employed as a Special Air Service Regiment Patrol Commander having served in Somalia, East Timor, the Solomon Islands as well as seven Tours of Duty in Afghanistan.

Sergeant Diddams was born in Canberra and enlisted in the Army in 1990 after completing his initial employment training for infantry. He was posted to the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment in Townsville, Queensland on 2 November 1990.

Sergeant Diddams successfully completed his SASR selection course and was posted to the Regiment in 1995 This was his seventh tour to Afghanistan since 2001, although he had deployed previously on four occasions to Somalia, East Timor and the Solomon Islands.

Sergeant Diddams, ‘Didds’ to his mates, was a devoted family man and a dedicated professional soldier. Known for his outward personality and quirky sense of humour, he was held in the highest regard by his mates and comrades alike.

Sergeant Diddams is survived by his wife Toni-Ann, their daughter Elle-Lou and son Henry, his parents Peter and Cate, and siblings Nikki, Sian, Christian and Luke.

Throughout his distinguished career Sergeant Diddams was awarded the following honours and awards:

Australian Active Service Medal with Clasp Somalia, Clasp East Timor, Clasp ICAT

International Forces East Timor (INTERFET) Medal

• Afghanistan Campaign Medal

• Australian Service Medal with Clasp Solomon Islands, Clasp ‘CT/SR’

• Defence Long Service Medal

• Australian Defence Medal

• NATO ISAF Medal

• Meritorious Unit Citation

Class

Year

- Friday

For further details please contact Mrs Trish Woodman on 9508 2138

• Infantry Combat Badge

• Returned from Active Service Badge

Lest We Forget

Old Collegian killed in Afghanistan

Top Screen Accolade

Mark McKee (2012) has been chosen as one of the State’s top student film makers for the 2013 VCE Season of Excellence. Mark’s film (7 pages), was chosen, along with 13 other films, from a field of 286 from last year’s VCE Media Studies graduates. Mark’s film, which tells the story of a VCE Media student struggling to come up with an idea for his final Media project, was awarded Best Script at the De La Salle’s Media Awards in October last year. The film focuses on the tensions which exist between the role of the writer and the director, and which of these deserves the title of the creative genius of any film project. Mark hopes to combine the two as a writer/director and has commenced his Bachelor of Film and Television at Swinburne University. Mark was the guest of honour at the Top Screen premiere at ACMI in March along with representatives of the College. The last time a De La Salle student was chosen for Top Screen was in 2010, when Sam Ayre’s film, Every Day I Dream About Sneakers was selected. The VCE Season of Excellence is part of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority’s showcase of the best of the State’s visual and performing arts.

Old Collegian’s memory honoured in Belgium

Old Collegian, John Lourdes Shortal, was one of four Australian airmen shot down in World War 2 who were honoured in a ceremony in Belgium on Anzac Day.

Foreign Minister Bob Carr joined Australia’s Ambassador to NATO Major-General Duncan Lewis and Australia’s Defence Attache to the EU, Wing Commander Nathan Ritchie, to become the first Australian officials to visit the grave where the four airmen are buried. For 70 years this otherwise unremarkable grave site in Bas-Oha in Belgium has been tended and their memories honoured by the people of this tiny village. It is believed Shortal and his fellow countrymen, Warrington, Currey and Haynes were involved in a raid on factories outside Frankfurt as part of a bombardment during the invasion of Normandy. After they were shot down a band of locals pulled their bodies from the wreck and hid them in a classroom until they could be given a proper burial.

20 Year Reunion

The class of 1993 is invited to join their fellow Old Collegians for their 20 year reunion

Mt Erica Hotel

of High St and Williams Rd Prahran

Friday 24 May at 7:30 pm

In 1993

Rest In Peace

Peter James Acott

Guy Boileau

Rino Della Bosca

Michael Busch

Richard (Dick) Graf

George Grech

Kevin Hamilton

Kelton

John King

Brian Luscombe

Martin

Darcy McCaffrey

Morgan

Adrian Mullaly

Fr Bill O’Halloran

Wilfred (Bill) Sandilands

Smith

Wain

Finger food available and drinks at the bar

Br Paul Smythe was the College Principal David Hickey was College Captain Fr Les Troy was the College Chaplain Paul Keating was Prime Minister

RSVP: twoodman@delasalle.vic.edu.au by 20 May

LA SALLE COLLEGE MALVERN