College Leaders 2004

I take this opportunity to a make a special mention of thanks and appreciation to: ❑ Br Adrian Watson, Head of Kinnoull Campus and Mr Peter Riordan, Head of Tiverton Campus for their loyalty and support and for their management of each campus in a professional and dedicated manner. ❑ The teaching staff of the College who are extremely committed in their loyalty to the young men and the College and whose generosity and diligence is to be commended. ❑ The College Office staff (Kinnoull and Tiverton), Library Assistants, teachers aides and the environmental staff for the sensitivity, patience, dedication and sense of humour. ❑ All College students for their special contribution to De La Salle College and for their willingness to contribute their individual talents. I thank in a special way the Year 12, 2004 group of College leaders ably led by Tim Kovess (College Captain), Adrian Bonadio and Daniel Rana (College Vice Captains). ❑ Thanks to the Parents Association, and President, Liz Kortum, for their continued support, generosity and commitment and to all College parents and friends for your interest and continued encouragement. ❑ The College Council for their guidance, suggestions, generosity and common sense. ❑ Old Collegians for their continued support and assistance – I make special mention of the work of Genie Scott (Alumni Officer). ❑ A special thanks to Mr Jonathan Hewett who has collated Blue and Gold magazine for many years. The College thanks him for his energy, time and initiatives – the Blue and Gold 2004 provides fond memories for all associated with De La Salle College. I thank all the De La Salle community for the opportunity and privilege of being part of a great school. Br Tim Peter

Farewell Br Tim

(The following is a speech made at the Year 12 Final

Assembly by College Captain Tim Kovess) I wish to speak about something very important to the College and the Lasallian community and it is something we should all stop and think about. What I’m talking about is the contribution of Br Tim to our College over his time here. As I’m sure you’re all aware, Br Tim will no longer be Headmaster of De La at the conclusion of this year and as such, it is appropriate that today we recognize his huge contribution to the College over the last seven years. Now firstly, I would like to read something to you all that relates closely to what I have just been speaking about, “Each of us faces times where we cannot know our direction. The temptation is to stay where it is safe and comfortable. However, the way to growth is to choose, to risk, to launch into the unknown.” This passage is from the 2001 Blue and Gold and was written by none other that Br Tim himself. It is just one of the many lessons he has offered us through our time at De La. Now the reason I have used this passage in particular, is because of the new direction not only my fellow Year 12 students and I will be taking next year, but also the change Br Tim will be facing. No doubt Br Tim has become comfortable in his role as Headmaster, and this change will be a challenge for him, but I know he will launch himself into the unknown and grow, on the qualities that have made him such an important and respected part of the De La Community. So, as his time at De La comes to an end, it is fitting that we recognise the contribution he has made. Firstly, Br Tim’s support of extra-curriculum activities such as drama productions, the Festival of Arts, sporting teams and the Rock Eisteddfod, has really created a school which is second to none in the range of opportunities it offers its students. He has helped to draw us away from the stigma of ‘boys in the arts’, to create an environment that embraces all aspects of artistic achievement, resulting in overwhelming achievements of boys in the creative arts, in particular the Rock Eisteddfod. His focus on Pastoral care has probably been the most impressive aspect of his contribution, and his efforts have created a school that is able to accommodate the needs of the whole range of students at De La Salle. The decision to reduce class sizes would have to be the most noticeable result of his care for students and the quality of their education. Br Tim possesses a real interest and care for people, which is why he will be so sorely missed. His impact on this College extends beyond the tangible contributions he has made; his kindness and understanding, as well as the positive spirit he invokes in those around him, has added so much to the Lasallian community. So on behalf of everyone here today, I would like to wish you, Br Tim, all the best for the future as you make the choice, take the risk, and launch yourself into your new challenge.

Tim Kovess College Captain