Building for G reatness
Our College has seen considerable change, growth and development.
FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to the November issue of Roll Call. As we communicated earlier in the year, the September issue of Roll Call will now be published each November to allow us to bring you more timely news of our Old Collegian Reunions and life at the College. This also spreads the two issues out equally across the year. The feedback on the 50th Anniversary issue in May has been incredibly positive, and we look forward to keeping Roll Call relevant to all our readers. In this issue we welcome parents and family members to our readership. We hope you enjoy reading about our wonderful Old Collegians and news of our student community.
Kerry Martin, Editor
Do need to update your details, or have a story to share with Roll Call ? Email: oldcolls@delasalle.vic.edu.au or phone (03) 9508 2337, we would love to hear from you.
Join the De La Salle College Malvern, Old Collegians Alumni portal https://delasalle.alumnly.com and reconnect with old friends.
EDITOR
Kerry Martin
PHOTOGRAPHY
Racing Victoria and De La Salle College Photographer
DESIGN & PRODUCTION
Jump Rope Design and De La Salle College Marketing
Meaningful change
From the Principal
Welcome to our latest publication of Roll Call, the second using our new-look format and featuring an increasingly rich variety of articles. A new highlight is the profile of a selection of staff members in each edition as we endeavour to provide more information about our contemporary College.
Much of our strategy in recent years has been dedicated to thought and planning around the optimum educational model for De La Salle College Malvern. This strategy is designed to support the long-term future of the College. The second half of 2024 has been dominated by the ongoing work on our very promising Master Plan. The research, planning, consultation and design process is almost complete, and we expect ARM Architects to deliver the Master Plan by early November.
The College has seen meaningful change, improvement, and innovation since 2015 and the 2024 Master Plan represents a new and exciting chapter in our history, to be staged according to available budgets in the coming years. We are exploring the potential of a campus swap with senior classes moving to facilities at the Tiverton Campus on High Street and the younger Year Levels taking advantage of more recreational space at Kinnoull.
The Stage 1 building projections focus on establishing a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Centre, refurbishment of Visual Arts learning areas, and development of specialist facilities for the junior years, particularly in Science,
Technology, and Engineering. Alongside these priorities, a new reception and administration area will offer an enhanced presence on High Street, serving as a welcoming gateway to the College’s dynamic learning environment. This new building will stand as a beacon and symbol of a reinvigorated De La Salle College, showcasing its commitment to innovative education and community engagement.
Running alongside this is a 2025 – 2028 Strategic Plan. Underpinned by the Five Core Lasallian Principles of Faith, Quality Education, Justice, Inclusivity and Respect. The Strategic Plan aims to make us the first choice of education for many families. This is a comprehensive document which will be available to the community when published in November.
In short, the Plan reaffirms our purpose as a Catholic school in the Lasallian tradition, to empower our students to find their individual version of excellence, conduct themselves with integrity and lead with strength, empathy and inclusion. Other major goals include increasingly closer partnerships with girls’ schools and parish primary schools, embracing evolving technology, a stronger culture of academic excellence, expanded offerings and a culture of inclusion, innovation, improvement, collaboration and support.
We have also devoted a good deal of time and energy into a marketing strategy this year. While we continue to draw enrolments from 50 – 60 suburbs it is evident we are not as well known in the community as we should be after 112 years. Market research demonstrates we are best known for the quality of the young men we produce, positive staff-student relationships, providing pathways for all and a strong commitment to our principles. The next stage now is to leverage that to broaden the message of the benefits of a Lasallian education.
So much is happening this year and I look forward to reporting our progress in the coming editions of Roll Call
Peter Houlihan, Principal
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Dear Editor,
I write to congratulate you on the wonderful achievement of 50 years of Roll Call magazine, and for your own excellent achievement of your role as Editor since 2006.
Roll Call is an important magazine for the College community, especially for Old Collegians. It is an important point of contact with the College. The personal benefits of regular communication and personal contact with people, such as fellow students, friends, and College staff, is important.
On a personal note, I can say that receiving and reading the Roll Call regularly since 1974, both here and overseas and sharing articles with my family has been a highlight. I have enjoyed reading about developments at the College over the years, particularly student activities and achievements, College planning and developments, and news of The Brothers and my fellow Old Collegians. One particular edition of Roll Call, which I cherish, is the 2012 Centenary edition, which I still refer to from time to time, and which I have only recently noted that you were the Editor.
Please keep up the great work of editing and publishing our historic, informative and most valuable Roll Call alumni magazine.
John Austin (1958)
Dear Editor,
Congrats to you and the Roll Call team on 50 years of your fine quality connecting publication, in which I briefly played a role back in the days of “the Bohan family’s living room floor”. Corey Maynard’s photo (p.26) - surely, he must be Brayden’s brother?
Chris Ryan (1973)
Dear Editor,
Records are there to be broken but I’m happy my brother Paul Brudenell’s U/14 100m ACC best of 11.4 (1964) remains intact these past 60 years. Paul’s children, Nikolas, Kristian, Alexandria and I very much appreciate Roll Call’s salute to the performance in the May 2024 issue. In a golden era of sprinters at the ACC in the 1960s — including De La’s Frank Dimattina (1964), David Whitelaw and Tony Vuat (St. Bedes’) and Paul Cheel (St. Joseph’s North Melbourne), my late brother was unbeaten over 100m, 200m and 400m, plus hurdles and long jump in all ACC championships he competed in. Thank you again for remembering him and one of the most electrifying track moments in ACC history and organizing a pennant and presentation in his honour following the conclusion of the 2024 Athletics meeting in February.
Michael Brudenell (1967), Detroit, USA
Dear Editor,
Congratulations on the beautiful publication of the last Roll Call. Everyone connected to the community really enjoys catching up on the latest news whilst reflecting on the past.
Shane Mackintosh, Director of Students, Senior Years
Major capital works
A
new and exciting chapter for the College
The
College has appointed ARM Architecture to develop a Master Plan for a major capital works project including a new Performing Arts Centre on the Tiverton Campus.
The new Performing Arts Centre is a key element of the College’s broader Master Plan, which includes constructing new facilities and refurbishing existing buildings to create modern teaching and performance spaces.
ARM Architecture was selected following a competitive tender process conducted by the College, in consultation with Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS).
The project, which will be the single largest capital works project carried out by the College in almost half a century, will involve firstly the development of a Master Plan for all campuses and then the design and implementation of various refurbishment works and new building projects to meet the future needs as the College continues to grow.
ARM Director Jesse Judd, said that ARM Architecture is delighted to begin the master planning process for De La Salle College.
“Secondary schools play such an important role in enriching young people through education, and we find these projects extremely rewarding to be involved in. We are genuinely excited to be working with the College to create a Master Plan that addresses current needs and anticipates future growth,” he said.
“Our commitment is that the Master Plan and identified projects not only meet educational and functional needs but also reflect and enhance De La Salle’s unique Catholic identity, supporting lifelong learning, faith, and community involvement.”
“We look forward to collaborating closely with the College’s leadership, MACS and other stakeholders to bring this vision to life and are excited to see the positive impact our designs will have on the school community.”
ARM Architecture’s portfolio includes many award-winning projects; including the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall Redevelopment, Hamer Hall, the Melbourne Theatre Company, The Melbourne Recital Centre, RMIT University’s Storey Hall, St Leonard’s College, Firbank Grammar, and Melbourne Girls Grammar.
ARM Architecture is working towards the completion of the Master Plan and the Master Plan process before the end of the year.
By fostering open communication and collaboration, we can help students navigate the challenges of the digital world while maximising its potential for learning and growth.
Positive leadership
Introducing Jessica Alger, Assistant Principal, Students
After 17 years in positions of leadership in education, what do you believe is central to the role of good educational leadership?
Good educational leadership is fundamentally about fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential. It involves setting a clear vision for the school, empowering teachers, and staff, building strong relationships with students and parents, and continuously seeking opportunities for growth and improvement.
What strengths do you think you bring to your leadership role?
In my leadership role, I believe my strengths lie in my ability to communicate effectively, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and inspire others through my passion for education. I also bring strong problem-solving skills, a commitment to equity and inclusion, and a willingness to adapt to changing educational landscapes.
As a leader in an open entry school what do you value most about De La Salle College’s educational and pastoral care programs?
As a leader in an open entry school like De La Salle College, I value the school’s commitment to providing a holistic education that nurtures students academically, socially, spiritually and emotionally. I appreciate the emphasis on pastoral care programs like GROW (Growing Responsibility for my Own Wellbeing) that support students’ well-being and development, ensuring that they feel valued and supported throughout their educational journey, as well as developing strong values.
With digital and social media dominating much of the narrative around teenagers, as a leader in a secondary
school, how do you negotiate the best way forward for students and educators alike?
In navigating the digital and social media landscape, it’s essential to approach it with a balanced perspective. As a leader in a secondary school, I prioritise educating students about responsible digital citizenship, while also providing guidance and support to educators in integrating technology into the curriculum in meaningful ways. By fostering open communication and collaboration, we can help students navigate the challenges of the digital world while maximising their potential for learning and growth.
When you were a student who were your role models, and did you have a teacher who inspired you?
As a student, my role models were individuals who demonstrated integrity, empathy, and a genuine passion for their work. I was inspired by teachers who went above and beyond to support their students and ignite a love of learning. I was lucky to have wonderful teachers all the way from prep upwards – Dierdre Minahan who became Dierdre Cosgrave was my prep teacher and was kind, supportive and nurturing. In secondary school my Year 10 English teacher, Marie Boyle was quick witted, funny and didn’t suffer fools – I loved her!
If we asked any of the students to describe you in three words, what words do you think they would use and why?
If students were asked to describe me in three words, I believe they might use words like approachable, supportive, and dedicated. These words reflect my commitment to building positive relationships with students, supporting their individual needs, and striving to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Jessica Alger, Assistant Principal, Students
A passion for teaching
“
De La Salle students are very respectful and well-mannered. They are genuine, positive, cheerful, full of energy. I enjoy being, however small, a part of their life journey. It is a privilege. And a blessing!
Senior Physics teacher, Halid Takimoglu, realised he had a passion for teaching when he was coaching his university rowing team.
“At university I was a competitive rower but after sustaining a chronic back injury, I was unable to compete, so I started coaching the team and found I really liked it. When I finished university, I knew what I wanted to do. I wanted to teach.”
After completing his Bachelor of Physics from Bosphorus University, Istanbul, he taught overseas before moving to Australia in 1999 and completed his Master of Education at The University of Melbourne. Before joining the teaching staff at De La Salle College in 2020, he was the Executive Principal at Sirius College for five years.
An expert in his field and a passionate teacher, Halid is happy to be back in the classroom and continually looks for ways to engage students. He employs a range of teaching methods, that are fun and challenging to inspire students in the classroom and was a presenter at this year’s PHYSCON 2024 conference.
His passion for teaching science is the key to his success in the classroom. “I try to bring passion to my subject area. Students respond when teachers are passionate.”
And his passion is evidenced in his VCE Physics results, with Study Scores in the high 40s and a Median Score well above the College Median.
“I also try to be open and honest with my students. I show them my human side. I try to show them, despite my age, I am one of them. I try to make them believe that we are all part of the same team. I am also a team member, and we all have responsibilities for each other, so if I commit myself 100 per cent, I expect nothing less of them.”
Stepping away from administration and being in the classroom, especially at De La Salle College, is a joy. “De La Salle students are very respectful and well-mannered. They are genuine, positive, cheerful, full of energy. I enjoy being, however small, a part of their life journey. It is a privilege. And a blessing!” He also ranks the collegial atmosphere at the College and the support of his colleagues and the leadership team as an integral part of his success in the classroom.
Halid says teaching brings many rewards. “In no other profession, can you form such strong and long-lasting relationships with the people you interact with. The cards I receive at the end of the year, especially from my Year 12 students are always something I look forward to. Their kindness and authenticity amaze me.”
Outside of teaching, Halid is also passionate about architecture. “I enjoy designing and building things for my family and friends and revel in home improvement projects which require unorthodox solutions.
By Kerry Martin
Beyond the classroom
De La Salle College teacher Emma Hart’s passion and energy for teaching and nurturing young people extends way beyond the classroom.
As a member of the College’s science teaching team, Emma is an innovative and committed teacher who inspires and challenges students in the classroom. Outside the classroom, Emma inspires and nurtures on stage through her role as a teacher and conductor with the Australian Girls Choir.
Whether teaching science or singing, Emma believes it’s all about knowing her students. “I try to engage and motivate students in my science classes by fostering genuine connections and ensuring a positive and safe learning environment,” she said.
“I want students to enjoy my classes and have fun while also becoming determined in their study habits, ambitious in their goals and resilient in their learning.”
“I try to link science to everyday life and reinforce learning through hands on and digital learning. Last year I designed a boardgame, Articulate, for my VCE students to use as a revision tool.”
Teaching has so many rewards. “One of my most memorable teaching experiences was with a student who struggled with confidence in his academic abilities and
found school challenging. I believed in his potential and after working together, he told me that my faith in him inspired him to persevere and believe in himself.”
“Every day I am encouraged to teach with authenticity and empowered to develop my teaching practice, in both the classroom and the Choir.”
Emma says working in a profession that aligns closely with her values is important. “Combining my professional teaching practices both at the College and with the Choir allows me to fulfill my commitment to nurturing and motivating young people.”
Emma won the Monash University Dean’s Academic Excellence Award as part of her Master of Teaching (Secondary). She also holds a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Global Studies Double Degree, majoring in Physiology and minoring in Genetics and Psychology and specialising in International Studies.
By Kerry Martin
Education support
De La Salle College has a dynamic Education Support Team dedicated to addressing the distinctive needs of students who have been identified with specific learning requirements. Roll Call spoke to an Old Collegian and a member of the Year 12 class to learn more about their experiences with the program.
Otto John Claus, who is currently completing a Vocational Major pathway at the College for his Year 12 program, is one of the many students who have benefitted from the College’s Education Support Program.
Otto said the Education Support Team at the College have contributed to his success as a student.
“The Education Support Team have supported me throughout my time at the College. During COVID we had lots of meetings with Learning Support Officers (LSOs) to support me during that time. It really helped having that connection at a time when everything was so different to normal.”
“The consistency of having support people in my classes helped make my time at school a success. Whenever things are not easy to understand, or I need help with my organisation, I am able to ask my LSOs for help.”
“The College has given me opportunities to try so many different things. I have met lots of people and made some good friends at the College.”
After Year 12, Otto plans to begin an apprenticeship in plumbing while continuing to play competitive tennis.
The consistency of having support people in my classes helped make my time at school a success.
Justin Nguyen’s (2022) dream is to compose orchestral music. In Year 12 he opted for a mix of creative and traditional subjects which played to his strengths. While he thrived in the creative subjects, he struggled with the essay-based subjects and benefited from the College’s Education Support Program.
“I needed support, especially with English and Psychology which both involved a lot of writing. The Education Support team helped me with note taking, reviewing my work and allowing me to express my thoughts with clarity,” he said.
“I was also fortunate enough to be able to sit exams in a separate room which allowed me to maintain focus. I was given rest breaks to reset my mind and enable me work to the best of my abilities.”
He says he owes his accomplishments to the Education Support Team. “Honestly, without their support, I would not have done as well as I did let alone even pass so I owe a lot of my accomplishments to them. This also allowed me to have more time to take advantage of all the College had to offer, especially the wonderful experiences of the Music Department.”
Since leaving the College, Justin underwent corrective spinal surgery and has been slowly getting back into a normal routine. During recovery, which is going well, he has been busy playing music with the University of Melbourne’s Engineering Music Society orchestra. He is also involved in AIESEC, an International Association of Students, based at the University.
“Since leaving the College I’ve been composing music. My latest pieces were two movements for a string quartet. Overall, I’ve grown so much since leaving De La Salle, but I try to draw on what I learned there.”
“My hope is to work in the music industry, specifically composing music for orchestras which sounds quite ambitious.”
By Kerry Martin
Archie Reid-Drought (left) with Mel Livera LSO (centre) and Otto John Claus (right)
Justin Nguyen (left)
Extension programs
The GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) Program at De La Salle College provides students in Years 7-9, who are identified as gifted and/or talented, the opportunity to develop their individual strengths in a range of nominated growth areas.
The Coordinator of the GATE program, Georgia Dolbel, says that GATE is an evidenced based program. “Research has found that gifted students have an increased chance of disengagement and marginalisation if they aren’t provided enriching learning environments.”
“Students participating in the program build a portfolio of work that showcases exceptional work across Maths, Science, Literacy and another subject of their choosing.”
“The program encourages students to explore alternative ways of learning that may not occur in the mainstream classroom. It is individualised to ensure that the learning that occurs within the GATE program extends students in subjects they excel in, and supports them to build confidence and capacity in others where required. It also provides high-achieving students an opportunity to work in a group of like-minded peers on a series of exciting academic programs and challenges.”
“Students are extended in Maths and English extension programs, particularly in Year 9 when they explore potential VCE accelerated pathways. This extension would occur in the classroom or with a specialist teacher. Students will also meet with the GATE Coordinator once a fortnight to review their goals, discuss their portfolio and take part in individual programs designed in line with Victorian Catholic Education Authority’s guidelines for supporting Gifted and Talented Students.” In their sessions with the GATE Coordinator,
the students engage in a series of enrichment tasks to harness problem solving abilities and challenge their critical and creative thought processes. In this way, we ensure our students’ individual talents are catered to.
“Students are also encouraged to collaborate and participate in a range of external competitions such as Tournament of the Minds, the DaVinci Decathlon and the AMT Maths Extension Competition, to name a few.”
“The GATE program caters to the diverse range of gifted and talented students at the College to further develop and support their varying abilities. In this way, we hope to respect the dignity of each student, and celebrate the diversity of their gifts.”
“Program entry is based on a multi-faceted approach drawing on a range of evidence including testing, student’s work samples, parent questionnaires, student reflections and teacher referrals.”
Ms Dolbel acknowledges that “the term ‘gifted’ can often bring unnecessary baggage with it, and hence gifted students must first be comfortable with this term. In addition to academic enrichment, the GATE program at the College also coaches students how to manage expectations from family, peers and themselves so they can find enjoyment in pushing themselves to do the best they can.”
By Kerry Martin
Performing Arts
The College’s strong commitment to the performing arts is highlighted in its dynamic program of music, drama, and art across the year. This year, the Music Department has nurtured the many musical talents of hundreds of students at ensembles, assemblies and concerts, entertaining students, and families at numerous stellar performances. In May, audiences were delighted by the College’s annual musical, Mamma Mia, featuring the iconic songs of ABBA at six sold out shows. Later in the month, students performed a classical set at The Edge at Federation Square as part of the ACC Arts showcase. In the middle of the year, 58 students toured regional Victoria on the annual Music Camp and in August it was a classic tribute to the Beatles, marking the 60th anniversary of their tour of Australia, and had everyone singing along! As well as Mamma Mia, the College also staged the London Operation in September.
Annual Art Show
On 17 September, the College Annual Art Show opened to the public in the Performing Arts Centre at Tiverton. More than 200 works by students across the College were on display. The exhibition featured a diverse range of works from different subjects, from art and photography to architecture, visual communication design, and STEM projects. Head of Visual Arts, Ryan Hayward said the event highlighted the talent and dedication of the numerous creative young artists and the incredible range of skills they have honed throughout the year. “It is a fabulous way to celebrate the artistic achievements of our students,” he said.
Roach (Year 11) was awarded the
Sirli’s Mum’ by Skyler Sahley (Year 12). “Depicting her likeness, a genuine connection was developed, one that is forever cemented through oil paints on a wood board.”
Inspired by the work of Carravaggio, this oil painting by Year 12 student, Jonathan Paola, was also featured in the
Catholic Education Week Creative Arts Exhibition.
Alex
‘Archbishop of Melbourne Award for Religious Art’ at the Catholic Education Week Creative Arts Exhibition.
Reconciliation at the College
In May, the College First XVIII Football team proudly played its first ever reconciliation match as part of Reconciliation Week against Salesian College at RSEA Park in Moorabbin.
Players were able to actively participate in a smoking ceremony and welcome to country prior to the match conducted by Steve Ulula Parker, a proud Boonwurrung man. De La Salle College went on to take home the win against our grand final opponents from last year, in what was a truly special occasion for all. Earlier in the year, De La Salle College’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) was approved by Reconciliation Australia. A RAP is a formal commitment to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. It documents how the College will strengthen relationships, respect, and opportunities in the classroom, around the school and between our First Nations and College communities.
Pictured: Best on Ground for the match, Corey Mackie, De La Salle College with Christian Moraes, Salesian College, wearing an indigenous designed jersey created by First Nations artist Ky-ya Nicholson Ward.
More than a numbers game
As Racing Victoria’s Chief Handicapper, David Hegan (1993) had two interests as a student at De La Salle College - Sport and Mathematics. In Year 12 he played ACC football, and tennis and was a member of the winning relay team that contributed to an ACC trophy for the College that year. And while his love of sport is a good fit with his chosen career, it was probably the two VCE Mathematics subjects he did in Year 12 that set him up for success as horse racing’s top numbers man.
After graduating, Hegan did a Commerce degree at Monash, but it was another sporting passion, horse racing, that led him to do a Certificate IV in Racing (Horse Training).
“I never thought I would learn to ride a thoroughbred, I originally did the racing course to learn more about how to train them, but the thrill of riding a thoroughbred at high speed is like little else,” Hegan said.
“I never really aspired to be a jockey, thinking at the time I was probably too big, but in hindsight some of today’s jockeys are as tall as me, perhaps I let a career opportunity go there!”
“My love of thoroughbred racing started before primary school. I can remember a few Saturday afternoons at Caulfield with my grandparents, parents and brothers watching champions like Manikato, Kingstown Town and Hyperno. The sound and sight of these incredible animals with jockeys in assorted colours thundering past was more exciting than anything you could imagine as four-year-old.”
“After the racing course I was considering some work for a couple of different metropolitan racing stables, but a job came up at the relatively newly formed Racing Victoria, so I took up an opportunity to work in administration there and have stayed since.”
“I was lucky enough to get a job in the Racing Department putting together the race program and doing some statistical reporting on field sizes and getting to know the handicapping.” His Year 12 Mathematics Reasoning and Data would have come in handy.
“A couple of years later the then Chief Handicapper, Jim Bowler retired after 25 years of handicapping the Melbourne Cup and two positions were advertised, one for a new Chief (recently vacated by Greg Carpenter) and the other a Junior Handicapper. I was lucky to get the role of Junior Handicapper and lucky again when Greg left in 2022 and I was promoted into his role.”
When Hegan took up the role of Chief Handicapper in 2022 he became just the 10th person in the 160-plus-year history of the Melbourne Cup to allocate weights for the world’s most famous handicap race.
“It is an honour and privilege to have the role of handicapping the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups, but also a heavy responsibility. I’ve been fortunate to travel to Japan and Hong Kong and experience their elite racing, but it doesn’t quite match the excitement of our Spring Carnival.”
“The level of interest around the world for the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups is amazing and we get queries about the Cups nearly 365 days of the year as various trainers and owners (sheiks, royal families, billionaires and small-time country owners from all parts of the globe) try to plot their path towards winning the two greatest thoroughbred handicaps on earth.”
“They’re all trying to ‘beat the handicapper’ as they say, so my job is trying to ensure the fairest and best contest possible by providing a competitive spread of handicaps. It is a challenging task as horses come from all over the world to compete in these two iconic races, but I am fortunate to have been given the job.”
Hegan says one of the challenges facing the industry now is attracting younger people. “We are always looking to build our fanbase, especially in the 18–35-year-old bracket who have a literal smorgasbord of choice in entertainment and sport to choose from, we need to make it as appealing to them as possible.”
“We have over 160 years of unbelievable history and tradition in our sport. Our greatest champion Phar Lap is still the main attraction at the Victorian Museum, but that could mean little if we do not evolve in making it more appealing to new generations. This also ties in with its social license – which is as much about entertainment as educating the public about what goes on behind the scenes, how much passion and care for the animal there is, how majestic and incredible these equine athletes are and how much of a way of life it is in regional and country areas. Horse racing is one the nation’s leading employers, it underpins daily life for many people, so it needs to stay vibrant and dynamic.”
Hegan admits he has precious time for interests outside of racing, except his family of course. Hegan and his wife Lucy have four children, Tom 16, and Ned 14, who are both currently students at the College, Henry 10, and Elly 6. He coaches Henry’s footy team at Flemington Juniors.
But he does find time to catch up and play a bit of tennis and golf with a group of Old Collegians who remain close friends. His four brothers Mick (1981), Tony (1985), Paul (1987) (dec.) and Gavan (1989) all attended the College with Mick’s son Josh in Year 10 this year.
By Kerry Martin
It is an honour and privilege to have the role of handicapping the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups, but also a heavy responsibility. I’ve been fortunate to travel to Japan and Hong Kong and experience their elite racing, but it doesn’t quite match the excitement of our Spring Carnival.
Advocating for democracy
Kevin Yam (1994) spent 17 years in Hong Kong working as a solicitor. Now as a fellow at Georgetown Centre for Asian Law, it is unlikely he will be able to return to Hong Kong in the foreseeable future after being placed on a ‘wanted list’ along with seven other Hong Kong democracy activists for his outspoken criticism of China’s influence in Hong Kong.
Australia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Penny Wong, has defended Yam and the other activists saying the Australian government was “deeply disappointed” by the announcement and vowed to defend free speech. She told The Guardian last year that, “freedom of expression and assembly are essential to our democracy, and we will support those in Australia who exercise those rights. Australia remains deeply concerned by the continuing erosion of Hong Kong’s rights, freedoms and autonomy.”
Yam said the College was instrumental in developing his keen sense of social justice and advocacy. “De La Salle College instilled in me a strong sense of social justice which influenced my later life as an activist,” he said.
After graduating from the College, he earned a Bachelor of Law and Commerce, followed by a Master of Commerce at The University of Melbourne. Despite his deep roots in Melbourne, having moved there with his family at the age of 10, he decided to return to Hong Kong, his birthplace. There, he completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Laws at the University of Hong Kong, a necessary step to begin his career as a trainee solicitor.
His legal career in Hong Kong spanned two decades, during which he worked for international law firms, spending eight years as a partner, and served two years as an in-house lawyer at a Big Four accounting firm. It was during this time that he became actively involved in the Hong Kong democracy movement. In 2015, he co-founded the Progressive Lawyers Group, which championed these causes. Yam also became a prominent commentator on Hong Kong and China-related issues, contributing to Hong Kong, Australian, and international media outlets.
Since returning to Australia in May 2022, Yam completed a Masters degrees in Law at the University of Melbourne, and this year he started on studying for a PhD there.
Yam enjoys being back in Melbourne, where he can indulge in all that the city has to offer, especially sport and good food. “I am a cricket tragic who watches as much cricket as I can get away with. I’m also a committed Hawthorn supporter with club membership to boot.” Once a food vlogger in Hong Kong, Melbourne’s food scene also keeps him busy.
By Kerry Martin
Ted Hui, Penny Wong and Kevin Yam (right).
Living dangerously
Chris Meehan (1967) is one of world’s most experienced bell and saturation deep-sea divers; an extremely hazardous job, known for its intense physical and psychological pressure. He has worked on oil rigs and offshore oil exploration vessels around the world for the past 50 years.
Meehan’s job is extremely dangerous and staying alive, balancing risk against gain is a challenge of the job. When Roll Call spoke to him earlier this year, he was working in the Persian Gulf off the coast of Saudi Arabia.
“The Inherent danger which goes with my job, is always there. The moral to this story is if you get hurt or sick whilst in saturation, it can take a while to decompress out and get treatment, one of my divers lost an arm whilst working in the North Sea, it was 5 days before we could get him to a hospital.”
“Whilst you are in the saturation chamber, the risks are always at the back of your mind, especially in rough weather.”
Saturation diving is a specialised technique that allows divers to work at extreme depths for extended periods. Divers live in a pressurised environment, enabling them to complete complex tasks without the need for repetitive decompression.
Before becoming a saturation diver, Meehan first trained as a remote area medic, specialising in hyperbaric medicine and started working as a diver working on wharves and slipways. After significant upskilling, he moved into deep sea diving and instruction and is now considered an expert in the field.
When I asked him where he has worked, he said the question should be ‘where haven’t you worked.”
“The deepest I have ever worked in the water was 140 metres in the North Sea, all in saturation, so decompression took 5 days and was a bit wearisome.”
“When we are diving at that depth, we live in decompression chambers built into the ship with one or two moon pools to allow diving bells to move from the chambers to the water and down to the sea bed.”
“The chambers have medical locks though which food and clothing are passed into the divers, larger items go in through equipment locks, this side of it is run by life support technicians, a very appropriate title.”
While the work is extremely hazardous and physically and psychologically demanding Meehan continues to enjoy the work. Although he said he was looking forward to getting back to dry land for a spell.
When Meehan is not at the bottom of the ocean he lives at St Andrews Beach on the Mornington Peninsula, gardening, keeping fit and hanging out with his family. He regularly catches up with his De La mates to tell a few tall tales. Meehan would have lots of tales to tell.
By Kerry Martin
Enduring love and friendship
Last year three Old Collegians, who have remained friends since the 1950s, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversaries. Bernard Hawkins (1955), Paul Rankin (1955) and Michael Priddle (1954) share their stories with our readers.
Michael Priddle
“Jan Keating and I were married on 7th September 1963 at St Anthony’s, Alphington and settled in Glen Waverley where our three children, David (1984), Elizabeth, and Kerin were born. We later moved to East Malvern and David attended the College in the 1980’s. We now have eight grandchildren, including Nick (2018) who attended the College making it three generations of Priddles to attend De La Salle. Qualifying as an accountant, I spent 30 years in the Victorian Public Service, including a posting to London as the Official Secretary, Office of the Agent General of Victoria. After returning to Australia in 1995, I accepted an offer from Br James Taylor as the College Business Manager. Jan and I retired to Red Hill but these days we are back in Malvern living in the shadows of the Malvern Cricket Club, where I have played 530 games since joining in 1953.”
Bernard Hawkins
“I matriculated in 1955 and took up a position with the CSIRO Division while studying part-time for a Diploma of Applied Physics at RMIT. I retired in 1998. I always had a keen interest in co-operatives and served on a number of boards including Chairman of a local co-operative, Director of CSIRO Credit and Director of the VCCA which was the overriding body for all Victorian Credit Unions. On 17 November 1962, I married Janet Phelan at Immaculate Conception in Hawthorn. We lived in Glen Waverley until we moved into a retirement village in Burwood in 2016. We have five sons, all of whom attended the College. Chris (1982) is a manager for a food supply company. Tim (1983) works in the car industry. Peter (1985) is a physiotherapist. David (1986) is Managing Director for a large chemical company and Chairman of Chemistry Australia and Matthew (1991) also works for an Australian Chemical company.”
Paul Rankin
“I studied accountancy and worked in the family chartered accountancy firm. On 28th September 1963, I married Glenice Stroud at Our Lady of Victories in Camberwell. We have five children, Gerard (1982), Andrew (1983), Carmel, Donald (1987) and Gabrielle. The boys attended the College and the girls Kildara. All our married life we have lived in East Malvern and as have all married couples, we’ve had good times and bad – the worst being Andrew’s death in 1988 when he was just 22. Had he lived he would be a computer whizz. Our other children have all attended university, with Gerard being awarded a PhD in 2016, while Donald has an accounting degree thereby creating a third line of Rankin accountants. Glenice and I have supported each other during our 60 years of marriage, sharing our hopes and expectations, and as both products of a Catholic education - we have shared our faith with our children.”
Moving on up
2024 has been a big year for the De La Salle Football Club. Three teams qualified for the Grand Final and the Seniors made it back into A Grade.
The Seniors’ success, under the expert coaching of Nick Hyland (2009), saw them qualify for a Grand Final for the first time since 2009. Unfortunately, Old Haileybury proved to be too strong on the day.
The Reserves also made it to the Grand final, under coach Jack McDonald, but lost to the more dominant Old Trinity. We were also delighted to see The Thirds back in 2024, with Daniel Buckley in the coach’s box. They did not disappoint making it the Grand final for the first time since 2018.
The Guns celebrated their first ever final, making it to the Preliminary final under new coach and Old Collegian, Andrew Donnison (1996).
The Under 19 Blues had a strong season while the Under 19 Golds made the finals under new coach Matthew Peterson (2007).
Christian Algeri (2002), Nathan Scollo (2021) and Thomas Filipovic were selected for the first time as the VAFA B-D3 side took on the Best of the Bendigo league, and Luke Healy (2023) captained the winning Under 19’s South team in the VAFA.
While it has been a big year on the ground, off the field the Club continues to thrive. For the first time in our history, we reached 200 nonplaying members and look forward to growing that number again in 2025 as we celebrate our 70th anniversary.
During the year we celebrated many reunions including the 1979 Seniors and Club XVIII, the 1984 Seniors, 1989 Seniors, Reserves, Under 19s, 2004 Under 19s and the 2009 Under 19s Premiership teams.
We welcomed new life members, Sam Williams (2006), Stephen Hogan (2006), Paul Lourey and Matthew O’Callaghan (1980) and welcomed Mark Lowe (1978) and Tom Humphrey (2010) to the Legends’ club.
Earlier in the year, more than one hundred people gathered for the Mother’s Day lunch in support of the Breast Cancer Network Association. Vice President Jennie Loughnan hosted the day, joined by special guests Mary O’Callaghan, Michelle Bourke and Maddie Proy who spoke about their involvement in the Club over the years dating back to the 1950’s.
2025 will be a big year for the Club, with anniversaries and our place back in A Grade, but we are prepared and ready to take it on. Like so many I am extremely excited to see what next year brings and encourage everyone to get involved and bring many people along to support and join the Blue and Gold Army.
Phil Proy (1998), Club President
Old Collegians and friends tee off!
Riversdale Golf Course was the setting for the inaugural De La Salle College Old Collegians/Football Club Golf Day on 19 April. After a few morning showers, the skies cleared in time for an Ambrose Shotgun start followed by a great morning of golf and a BBQ lunch at the Clubhouse. Principal, Peter Houlihan, and Football Club President, Phil Proy (1998), were among the 60 Old Collegians, family and friends who teed off. Principal, Peter Houlihan, said the event was a wonderful opportunity for the Old Collegians and Football Club members to come together and develop stronger and broader links. Overall winners were Jordan Woods (2021), Phil Woods, Stephen Gunn and Craig O’Reilly. Thanks to Nick Ryan (1986) from Bob Stewart and Dom Tyson from Clutch & Co Apparel for supporting the day with some great prizes.
Golf champ
By the time De La Salle College Year 10 student, Taegen Dodds, was eight years old he had won his first gold medal in AAU Junior Golf Olympics in California.
Since then he has played in three more American tournaments, including the IMG World Championships, the World Junior Stars and the Calloway World Championships.
In 2023 he won the Sanctuary Lakes Junior Open and was the Junior Club Champion. This year he won the Ballarat Junior Open, the Club Mandalay Junior Open and the Flinders Golf Club Junior Open.
Still only 16 years of age, Taegen is a member of the Victoria Schools U18 Team and is the current Leader of the Victorian Order of Merit – Boys U18 and an ACC 2023 junior champion.
When Taegen was only two years old, he was given his first golf club and quickly discovered he had a natural talent and passion for the sport. By the time he was five, he had a membership at the Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club, becoming the youngest member ever. A year later he won his first competition, the Stuart Appleby Rookie Series Under 11 Age Division, at the Oakleigh Golf Club.
Taegen says De La Salle College is an amazing school that supports his golf commitments while challenging him academically.
“I live in Point Cook but travel to Malvern to school every day because De La Salle College is an amazing school.”
Balancing his school and golfing commitments can be challenging, he says. “Winter especially is very tough because by the time I get home from school there is only 30 minutes of daylight. Summer is much easier, because I can get at least three hours of practice in every day. And of course I also have my study commitments.”
Taegen is as committed to his studies as he is to his golf and hopes to qualify for a scholarship to enter the American College system, and eventually onto the professional golf circuit.
His golf heroes include Jordan Spieth, whose technique was his inspiration when he was younger, as well as Cameron Smith and Matthew Wolff, whom he caddied for earlier this year.
By Kerry Martin
Taegen Dodds at at the Club Mandalay Junior Open
Class of 2004
On Friday 21 June, the De La Salle Class of 2004 got together for our 20-Year reunion. Twenty years feels like a really long time, and looking at the photos, it is. It also felt like a really short time once we were all gathered together. It’s amazing how quickly you can go back in time with the right group of people. All semblance of maturity quickly faded as we devolved back into a room full of excited school kids. Everyone had their own experience of school. Some enjoyed the classes, others not so much. Some enjoyed sports or music, or maybe more lunchtime and the closing bell. Whatever it was, it was clear that we had all enjoyed spending time with our mates. A feeling that has lasted 20 years and, based on the festivities, will last another 20 at least. It was a great turn out with more than 50 there, and many others who wanted to be but couldn’t make it. Thanks to the school for organising the evening, and to all who attended to make it a night to remember. Special mention to Rob Breda for his hilarious reflections on two decades ago.
Tim Kovess (2004)
Class of 1994
What a terrific gathering of individuals it was for this wonderful class of ’94 and our 30-Year reunion. Still a community in every sense of the word! Name tags seemed irrelevant as time seemed to have served everyone impossibly well. A great line from the evening summed up humour and fact, “best reunion since the 20-year gathering!” A recent occurrence exemplifies the longevity and connection whereby this writer’s youngest son (Year 7) was asked by an emergency teacher “Are you related to Dan, Pat or Tom” (my brothers). Asking was Charles Thompson (Mr T), our 1989 Year 7 Gold teacher and mentor! Principal, Peter Houlihan, gave a rousing speech which was very well received. His dedication to College events a fitting reflection on the years Principal, Peter Smyth, served during our time. A huge thank you to Lucy, Kerry, Kirsten and De La Salle College for providing the opportunity to reminisce and reconnect!
Dan Nolan (1994)
Fifty+ Reunion
More than 60 Old Collegians gathered at The Glasshouse at Caulfield Racecourse on 15 August for the annual 50 + Reunion. The event was a wonderful opportunity to rekindle long-standing friendships, some after many years apart, and to form new connections. A highlight of the reunion was an insightful presentation by Principal, Peter Houlihan, on the College’s current and future mission, emphasising care for students’ wellbeing and personal development. Old Collegian, Barry Lyons, thoughtfully responded to Mr Houlihan’s comments, acknowledging the benefits of the modern, supportive approach compared to the more discipline-focused past. Special thanks to the College staff for their excellent organisation of our reunions. We look forward to attending future events.
John Austin (1958)
End of an era for Malvern
In May this year a significant era for the College came to an end with the departure of the Brothers from their residence on High Street Malvern. The event was marked by a gathering at the College and a farewell Mass at St Joseph’s Church on 2 June.
Principal, Peter Houlihan, said their departure marks the end of an era for the College. “After arriving in 1912 and having a significant impact on Catholic education in southeast Melbourne from 1912 – 2023, the Brothers moved out of the residence next door on 20 June. The Trustees of the De La Salle Brothers’ decision to sell the College and the Brothers’ residence in 2022 meant there will be no Brothers next door anymore.”
Speaking at the farewell, former Principal, Br Bill Firman, said that the Brothers leave with the College in very good hands, its long-term future assured, and exciting developments just around the corner.
Strong and visionary leadership through 19 Brothers’ work as Headmasters/Principals saw the Tiverton and then Kinnoull properties gradually take shape with judicious purchasing and redevelopment of neighbouring properties. This resulted in a dual-campus Year 5 – 12 school of over 1200 students. (The Holy Eucharist campus was acquired since Br Paul Rogers finished in 2013).
Mr Houlihan said that the site of the Brothers’ residence will be developed to provide a long overdue upgrade in facilities for our students. “We maintain our links and heritage as a Lasallian school, with the charism remaining at the centre of all we do at De La Salle College.”
By Marian Jenkinson, College Archivist
1948 Manresa Mansion
Where are they now
Brian Magree (1952) attended the memorial Service for Fr Gerard Rummery fsc. at St Bede’s College on 13 March. Brian, a retired schoolteacher is an active member of the St Mary’s Parish, East Malvern. Brian has five daughters and lives in East Malvern.
Anthony Quin (1995) is the Regional Sales Manager-Joints, at DePuy Synthes, Johnson & Johnson Medical Technology. He Lives in Sydney with his wife Amber and their three children, Riley 13, Angus 11 and Chloe 8, a dog, and a rabbit.
Ben Quin (1997) is an Acting Area Manager Metro 1 with Ambulance Victoria. He and his wife Carly have 10 year old twins Mitchell and Eva, a dog, and a cat.
Michael Quin (1999) is the Senior Manager of Research Communications at RMIT University. He and his wife Mara have three children, Jordy 10 and 8 year old twins Luna and Samuel, and a dog.
Anthony (1984) and Damian Giacomantonio (1993) celebrated their mother, Maria’s, 80th birthday. Maria worked in the office at the College for over 20 years. Anthony has a successful career in sales and marketing and as a store manager for Safeway. He is married to Domenica and has a daughter Alyssia and a son Gabriel. Damien runs his own business D & R Outdoor Maintenance and is married to Rachel. They have to sons, Addison, and Zandar.
Orlando Wong (2023) joined the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) this year where he will be completing a Science Degree as Cadet Officer in Training. In February he participated in the Annual Chief of Defence Force Parade. Some of his De La mates came up to Canberra to see him. (Pictured L to R Callum McInerney (2023), Orlando Wong (2023), Jack Larkin (2023) and Will McEniry (2023).
Corey Lyons (2016) married Eliza Moloney in Adelaide on 22 July 2024. Both work in the financial planning industry.
James Corkill (2008) and his wife Emma welcomed the birth of their son, Beau in February this year. James teaches Maths and Religious Education at St Bede’s Mentone where he also coaches ACC Soccer.
Ashton Agar (2011) and his wife Madeleine welcomed Charles Ashton Agar into the world on 20 September 2023. Charles is pictured here with his proud father (left) and two immensely proud uncles Will (2013) and Wes (2014).*
Phillip Green (1983) (pictured left) is a Program Manager for Cisco. Phil has more than 30 years’ experience in Information Technology and telecommunications business and program management. He has a Bachelor of Engineering (First Class Honours) from the University of Melbourne, a Master of Engineering from RMIT and an Advanced Diploma in Project Management from the Australian College of Project Management. Phil, who is a former editor of Roll Call, attended the 50th Anniversary morning tea at the Tiverton Campus earlier this year.
*This entry corrects an error in our May issue.
Peter O’Brien (1954) (pictured left) has been a presenter on Radio Eastern (98.1) since 1991 and is a Life Member and former Board Member. He has always been involved in music and as a student he was a member of the College Choir. He started his career in the Department of Air and completed a Radio Announcing Course at the Vincent School of Broadcasting. Following National Service in the RAAF, he worked in various areas of the then PMG Department. A career highlight was working with the former Australian Broadcasting Control Board until its disbandment in 1976. Music continued to be part of his life after leaving the College and he performed regularly at various socials and dances around Melbourne and at a performance in Moonee Ponds Town Hall he met his wife Valerie, who was a singer. Later Peter took up String Bass, then electric guitar and performed alongside many musicians in the Melbourne Ballroom Dance scene. Other interests include sailing and restoring old cars. He is a current member of the Australian Bing Crosby Society, the Original Showbiz Club, and the Ringwood RSL. Peter and Valerie recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They have three adult children and nine grandchildren.
Peter Litson (1962) after qualifying as an Accountant went into teaching until in 1994, he learned how to exploit the progressive jackpots at the newly opened Crown Casino, left teaching and has been a full-time professional gambler ever since. He is married and has three adventurous adult children.
Chris Ryan (1973) (pictured right) has retired from his work at Cabrini Hospital and as a spiritual director. He is passionate about asylum seeker welfare, cycling, poetry and the environment. He recently published a book Feeding the Spark, an account of his pastoral years in palliative settings. Chris runs a popular Christian meditation group at St John’s, Mitcham. Retirement has afforded him many opportunities to volunteer, to travel abroad (a son lives in Germany), to return to his beloved table tennis, and to enjoy time with his five grandchildren. Pictured with his brother Paul (1979)
Paulie Stewart (1979) and Anthony Breslin (1984) joined forces to present a special event at The Memo Hall in July to mark DonateLife Week. The Memo Hall event included a performance by The Transplants (a band formed by Paul whose members have received donated organs). Paul is long time lead singer of local rock band The Painters and Dockers and Anthony is a world renowned artist who designed the distinctive poster for the event. Both Old Collegians are alive thanks to the kindness of Australians who donated their organs with Paul receiving a donated liver in 2009 and Anthony receiving a donated kidney in 2021, and bone marrow donation in 2015.
Brian O’Halloran (1957) (pictured right). After graduating from the College, Brian taught for 40 years with the Department of Education in both special and mainstream schools. He taught at numerous schools around the state, including Lake Tyers and Wangaratta. As a student he loved sport, and this continued in later life, playing his last game of football at the age of 30. (His wife said he should have retired earlier!) Brian has three daughters, who are also teachers, and one son who works in the film industry. After Brian’s first wife passed away, he remarried and now has a large extended family.
Rest in Peace
F Michael Kennedy 1944
F Alwyn Clarke 1946
F Colin Cormick 1948
F Barrie Edwards1950
F Kevin Davies 1954
F Ron Aquilina 1955
F Jim Drake 1956
F Brinsley Best 1957
F Fr Brendan Dillon 1958
F Evan Davies 1958
F John Flaherty 1959
F John Francis 1959
F Garry Cooper 1961
F Leo Sullivan 1961
F Denis Foley 1962
F Chris Smith 1966
F Pat Hopkins 1967
F Daniel Hannaford 1974
F Greg Young 1975
F Shane Murphy 1976
F Jimmy Buick 1994