JOEYS NEWS
Sharing insights from our trips to Tanzania and Timor-Leste
12 THE EXPAT APPEAL
Expatriate families don’t just find a school at Joeys – they step into a community that feels like home
From
Meet
Celebrating
A breathtaking display of storytelling that has left a lasting impression
16 STATING THEIR CASE
Old Boy Jack Wright (2004) in conversation with William McCarthy (Y12), captain of Debating 18 HUMBLE OF SPIRIT
Our rich tradition of athletic excellence is revealed in the inspiring achievements of Joeys boys from the Class of 2024 20 FINDING THEIR VOICE
Award-winning author, William Kostakis, spent a week at Joeys as our Writer in Residence, inspiring our budding writers
St Joseph’s College Institute, launched this year, shows our commitment to nurturing educators
22
Farewell to Paul and Kristi Bryant, educators who have enriched the lives of countless Joe-Boys
HONOURING THE PAST, PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE
Walking up the main drive of St Joseph’s College many years ago, I was struck by the sight of the outdoor pool nestled on the front lawn. As I rounded the bend, the magnificent 1880s building rose into view – a testament to the vision and foresight of the early Brothers. The palm trees that framed the building, iconic and stately, were already synonymous with Joeys, having stood proudly since the 1930s.
Mr Michael Blake / Headmaster
Those palms were part of the fabric of the College – something everyone who has ever walked the main drive remembers. However, when I took up my role at Joeys in 2020, only four of the original eight palms remained. Today, just two stand. It’s a stark reminder that, like everything in life, our College too must adapt. These trees, like the roses in our front garden and our beautiful outdoor pool, are part of Joeys’ heritage –symbols of our rich history and the continuity of life at the College.
When we renovated the pool, we chose to honour the past by retaining an outdoor pool. Likewise, our rose garden – developed over decades and known for the unique Joeys’ Rose – has been replanted with graftings from the original plant. These small decisions reflect our commitment to maintaining the College’s character, even as we prepare for the future.
One of the most inspiring aspects of our community at Joeys is the grace and humility with which our students face both triumphs and challenges. In the past season, our sports teams displayed remarkable resilience and sportsmanship. Our rugby and football teams, despite several tough matches, showed immense character. In these pages we reflect on the sporting achievements of some of our recent graduates from the Class of 2024.
Our commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals extends beyond the sports fields.
This issue of Joeys News reveals the diverse achievements and experiences of our students. From immersions in Timor-Leste and Tanzania to the exceptional “Burramatta Songlines” showcase, our boys continue to learn and excel in many fields.
We are proud to feature an interview with Old Boy Jack Wright, who shared his experiences as an international journalist with Class of 2024 alumnus and exceptional debater William McCarthy. William’s extraordinary success in debating at Joeys, which culminated in his selection to captain Australia’s Debating team at the World Schools Championships in Serbia, is a testament to his determination and talent, which we rightly celebrate and admire.
A collaboration between the Visual Arts and English departments, our Kids of Dreams magazine highlights the creative talents of both our students and their teachers. Additionally, this year saw the launch of the St Joseph’s College Institute, which empowers our teaching staff as we commit to nurturing educators at every stage of their career, focusing on the three pillars of leadership, pedagogy and spirituality.
As we continue to build on our rich tradition of excellence, let us remember that it is the collective effort of every Joeys boy that contributes to our community. Together, we strive to create a nurturing environment where every boy can thrive and achieve his full
potential. The same will be true of the palm trees – after careful consideration, we’ve decided to replant them. While we won’t be able to use the same species, we have found the closest match that will thrive here. It would have been easy to plant fully mature palms for a quick fix, but we decided to take the patient path. We’ll plant saplings – and though they won’t provide shade for some years, they’ll stand the test of time, growing tall for future generations of Joeys boys.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible community. As you read this issue of Joeys News, let the stories within inspire you to embrace every opportunity with grace, humility and Joeys’ spirit.
One of the most inspiring aspects of our community at Joeys is the grace and humility with which our students face both triumphs and challenges.
SHARING hope
In the same week the College family celebrated its Mass for the Solemnity of the Assumption in the Br Emilian Hall a couple of months ago – as always, a wonderful occasion – another Christian community on the other side of the world also gathered for its Assumption Day Eucharist. The liturgies of both communities were marked by deep faith and great heart.
Br Michael Green FMS / Marist Brothers Community Leader
The readings, prayers and hymns in both services – and the people who read and sung them – drew on the profound hope that this solemn date on the church’s calendar is all about. The Assumption is essentially concerned with hope: a hope that reaches beyond the immediate and the tangible, a hope that is not limited by what is, but which anticipates what is yet to be. It goes to the core of who we are as Christians.
The physical settings for the two Masses, however, differed enormously. Our Mass was in leafy Hunters Hill, in one of the most beautiful and safest cities of the world; theirs amidst the horrendous human and physical devastation that is Gaza. Their parish priest, Fr Gabriel, reported that thudding sounds of the bombardment of nearby refugee camps of Jabalia and Nuseirat competed with the uplifting singing of the church. Poignant. Yet, he also described the day as “magnificent, despite the pain and the fatigue”. The people prayed for Mary’s “miracle of peace”, and they believed it would come.
When they were done, the parishioners linked up with local Orthodox families to distribute food and necessities to the refugees to whom they were giving shelter. And to share hope. They wanted to be the miracle of peace for which they had prayed.
Ironically, the name of the Catholic Parish of Gaza is Holy Family. It is ironic because the term “family” belies their current experience. They have had taken from them much of what goes with being a family – having a home in which to live, somewhere where you are
loved, where you belong, where you should be safe. St Marcellin chose the Solemnity of the Assumption as the patronal feast day of the Marist Brothers. It remains so. This is the reason why we always schedule the Family Mass in Term 3, as close as possible to 15 August. It is a special Marist day.
In the chapel at The Hermitage, in the late 1830s, Marcellin commissioned a local artist to paint a dramatic visualisation of Mary’s Assumption as the pivotal image in the sanctuary. He wanted it to be a symbol of hope, to draw the Brothers into something that was richer and deeper than both the struggles and the joys of their ordinary lives.
SOWERS OF HOPE
As a Marist school, giving boys both reason and means to become men of hope has always been at the heart of the Christian education offered by St Joseph’s College. Almost half a century ago, the Superior General of the Marist Brothers, Br Charles Howard – the only Australian to hold this position, and also a former Headmaster of St Joseph’s in the 1960s – proposed that the fundamental task of Marist educators was that they be “sowers of hope” among young people. Their role was to plant and water seeds of hope that in later life would grow, bud and flower, neither wilting nor withering despite whatever may come their way.
Marcellin’s key means for doing this was to develop schools that had what he called “the spirit of a good family”, where people’s beliefs would be mediated through and supported by
the strength and closeness of the bonds that held its members together. Belonging to a family, being carried by a family, sustained by a family. This concept of “family spirit” remains a primary way in which a Marist school sows seeds of hope with young people.
FORGING LASTING BONDS
Family bonds endure. They give reason and means to build hope. That seems to be what is playing out in the Holy Family Parish of Gaza. In the context of a school such as Joeys, we know that such bonds don’t dissolve when a student walks out the front gate. Each year there are myriad examples in our Joeys community of how people’s spirits are sustained through the relationships they have forged here – as students, as parents, as staff and as Old Boys. It is the risen Christ alive in our midst. This is what we celebrated at our College Family Mass in August; and at every Mass. █
Family bonds endure. They give reason and means to build hope … we know that such bonds don’t dissolve when a student walks out the front gate.
DREAM ON, KID
A celebration of creative expression at Joeys can be found in a remarkable publication, Kids of Dreams, where learning intersects with imagination. This annual publication serves as a record of our students’ talents, whilst also reflecting the dedication and excellence of our teachers. Prose, poetry and artworks breathe life into its pages.
At Joeys, students become writers, developing the ability to articulate their thoughts through the written word under the guidance of their English teachers; meanwhile, they explore and express their ideas through diverse artistic practices in Visual Arts, exemplifying the power of education through this creative nexus.
Joeys boys experience what art can be through collaboration to develop a growth mindset; where their work can evolve and they can achieve something they hadn’t thought possible. Intuitive learning occurs within the purposefully designed open, light-filled studios, an environment where students are encouraged to engage actively, to collaborate, to reach out for advice about painting or sculpture or photography.
“It really is a very transparent collaboration in the production of art,” reflects Michelle Tinta, who has led the Visual Arts department since 1997. “With the technical aspects of each discipline, we encourage the boys to seek out what they need from different staff members, creating an environment where their artistic expression can flourish.”
Kids of Dreams is witness to this artistic prowess as it emerges in Joeys boys. Each year, the poetry, prose and artwork are meticulously curated to celebrate the literary and artistic talents of Joeys boys, as well as to inspire them.
A SHARED SHOWCASE
The history of this creative publication, a collaborative effort between the Visual Arts and English departments, can be traced back to 1990, when a student described himself as a “kid of dreams”, so the title and idea evolved from there. It was first known as the Young Writers Magazine, featuring “poetry, stories and
reflections the delightful work of students in Visual Arts classes, illustrated our written entries”, according to the College Magazine The entries in its inaugural year were judged by Australian poet Les Murray AO (1938–2019). Today, it doesn’t just exhibit curated works; it encapsulates the students’ artistic journeys, from the junior years to the culmination of their HSC bodies of work. Behind this, we find the inspirational guidance of our teachers, who navigate the delicate balance between imparting foundational knowledge and nurturing boys’ individual talents.
English teacher, and last year’s Kids of Dreams editor, Kylie Hinkley, notes that, “it is evident in the compositions in this publication that [our boys] are embracing their imagination and ability to think in sensitive and inspiring ways”.
Head of English, Michael Kavanagh, appreciates how projects like this allow students to participate fully in the writing process. “All Joe-Boys have a story to tell, and with encouragement and support in drafting, they can have them heard,” says Mr Kavanagh. “They are always so proud to be recognised as a great young author or poet, which is a significant achievement, and having their work chosen by a famous author is an amazing feeling for the boys. To see their work published in this anthology is very affirming for them.”
SPACES TO INSPIRE
The studios at Joeys are transformative spaces where each Year 12 student is given a dedicated area, which functions as a visual diary. These spaces have come a long way since their original location in the College’s old dairy and then laundry, with the move to the Technology and Arts Precinct in 2013.
In readiness for the creation of his HSC body of work, each student’s space becomes an atelier, where he can immerse himself in the process and engage in open dialogue with teachers, who encourage a playful yet disciplined approach. With minds open to new artistic possibilities, an atmosphere of experimentation results in the creation of distinctive artworks, many of which feature in Kids of Dreams
Outside the art spaces, Joeys has witnessed an intriguing correlation – with accomplished sportsmen, such as Australian Schoolboy rugby players, excelling in Visual Arts. Research on this phenomenon by Dr Mark Fenech, titled “Rugby and Rembrandt are good mates at Joeys”, sheds light on Visual Arts’ transformative power – where stereotypes about boys’ interests are shattered. Creativity becomes an integral part
of their identity. Dr Fenech attributes this unique environment to the pedagogy cultivated over decades by our teachers.
This interest also extends beyond the classroom, with students and parents regarding Visual Arts as a rigorous and respected subject that challenges Joeys boys to excel. The annual Student Art Exhibition attests to this, with families turning out in large numbers to witness the artistic accomplishments of their sons. This has resulted in some remarkable achievements, with some of our top ATARs prominently featuring Visual Arts students – a testament to the subject’s academic rigour as well as the boys’ dedication.
This year’s Kids of Dreams, published in November, promises to inspire us once again with an archive of the creative potential of Joeys boys, empowering them to dream on. █
We encourage a disciplined yet experimental artistic approach to investigating ideas … a synthesis of conceptual and material practice.
At the 2023 launch: Matthew Bookallil, Michelle Tinta, John Summers, Rebecca Smith, Kylie Hinkley, author Will Kostakis, Michael Kavanagh
Visual Arts student Nathan Monaci (Y12)
In Tanzania, they visited the School of St Jude, local markets and homes, a Maasai village and the Samaritan Village Orphanage. In Timor-Leste, Joeys returned for the first time in 16 years, with Edward (Ted) O’Connell (Y10) revealing, “The thing I take the most out of the immersion was connecting with others and experiencing the day-to-day lives of the unique and wonderful people who live in such a starkly contrasted country. It was one of the most rewarding and unforgettable experiences”.
Ten Joeys boys, along with Mr Daniel Fee, Mrs Donna Quinn and Sr Helen Peters, embarked on the meaningful immersion, experiencing life in one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia. They helped disabled children at Katilosa to learn numbers and the alphabet in English, Portuguese and the native language Tetum, planted trees and assisted a village in finding clean drinking water. The boys taught swimming to aspirants and enjoyed golf, pool rugby, scavenger hunts and a thrilling futsal game against the young Marist Brothers.
A BROADER WORLDVIEW
Sebastian O’Brien’s (Y10) pre-trip anticipation was fuelled by past students’ stories and his own dreams of seeing African wildlife. However, the reality of Tanzania left him with more than just scenic memories. From his surprise at seeing young children leading cattle along a road to visiting the local goat market, his initial cultural shock morphed into an understanding of the socio-economic contrasts between his life in Australia and the daily struggles in Tanzania. “I have come back with a greater appreciation for all the little things, like drinking the tap water,” says Sebastian.
On IMMERSION
In April, two groups of students and teachers embarked on life-changing immersions. The trips to Tanzania and Timor-Leste left Joeys boys with deep insights into the realities of everyday life in these countries.
Jake Fourie (Y10) at St Jude’s School in Tanzania
A pivotal moment for Sebastian was the visit to St Jude’s School. Witnessing first-hand the impact of education and seeing how the school thrived on a modest budget shifted his perspective. It highlighted the power of dedicated philanthropy and the tangible impacts of direct charity work, seen in the efforts of Gemma Sisia, the school’s founder.
Gemma shares a touching story: “After a home visit, a St Jude’s family gifted a Joeys boy a live chicken, which he brought back to the school, before passing it on to one of our welfare-listed families. It was heartwarming to see the boys support our school in such a simple way as obviously they could not take the chicken back on the plane to Sydney!”
The children are always very excited when Joeys boys arrive. “From my desk, I can see and hear the joyful sounds of Joeys boys playing games with our primary students. I enjoy watching them playing sports as well as having engaging conversations with our secondary students. It’s truly a win–win situation,” says Gemma.
Another highlight of the trip was the safari, as the boys travelled to Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater. “Inside was a scene out of a nature documentary we saw every African animal you could think of [it] was land untouched by humans,” recalls Sebastian. “It truly was a life-changing trip none of us will ever forget.”
LESSONS IN GRATITUDE
Angus McRae’s (Y12) reflections bring to light the humanitarian insights gained from interacting with the local community and students in Tanzania. His visit to students’
I have come back with a greater appreciation for all the little things, like drinking the tap water.
Sebastian O’Brien, Year 10
homes, particularly the humble abode of a young boy named Allen, emphasises the stark realities of poverty but also shows the extraordinary gratitude of the hosts, despite their limited means.
Angus describes Allen’s cinder block house as no larger than some bedrooms, without any proper windows, door or utilities, and a floor consisting of a tarp, yet “his mother met us with a welcoming smile and a warm heart she couldn’t express her appreciation more for the opportunity her son had been given [to] improve not only his own life, but that of his family. Despite their situation of serious poverty, [she] generously offered us tea and nuts as welcoming gifts”.
The Samaritan Village Orphanage visit was another eye-opener for Angus and his peers, revealing the resilience of children who face considerable adversities. The joy that simple gifts, such as football boots, brought to these children was inspiring. “It was a place of happiness, and all the children, despite their
heartbreaking backgrounds, greeted us with wide smiles and laughter. The staff there were truly passionate about the children they cared for,” recalls Angus.
“One thing I will never forget is the joy on the faces of the children when we put their new boots onto their feet. Once the boots were on, they refused to take them off!”
BROADENING PERSPECTIVES
All Joeys boys who head off on immersions come back with memories and life lessons that will continue to shape their outlook and build empathy, recognising the impact they can have on those less fortunate. Overseas immersions can broaden students’ horizons and instil a deeper appreciation for the basics often taken for granted, such as clean water or the security of home.
These immersive trips reinforce the value of education as a transformative tool in the fight against poverty, changing the lives of children, families and communities. █
Angus McRae (Y12)
Angus McPhie (Y12) and Sebastian O’Brien (Y10)
THE EXPAT APPEAL
At St Joseph’s College, expatriate families don’t just find a school – they step into a community that feels like home. With an enriching blend of academics and co-curricular activities, Joeys is where boys can thrive, make lifelong friends and discover their potential.
For Stephen and Corinna Briscoe, residing in Singapore, the choice of Joeys for their son Alexander was driven by its “impeccable reputation” and strong endorsements from Joeys’ families. Despite their proximity to the International Baccalaureate offerings at local schools in Singapore, the Briscoes favoured the Higher School Certificate (HSC) program, which they felt was better suited to Year 10 student Alexander’s learning style.
Alexander’s affinity for sports also played a pivotal role in their decision. The sweltering heat in Singapore limited his sporting pursuits, but at Joeys, he found world-class facilities and a community that thrives on athletic excellence.
I found myself in a very different atmosphere … but the people around me, especially the boys who were also starting Year 7, welcomed me and made me feel at home.
Sean Ng (right)
Sporting pursuits: Alexander has discovered a new sport interest in rowing, pictured here with the Year 10 4th VIII
Michael (1998) credits his time at Joeys with laying the foundation for his professional and personal successes. “Boarding at Joeys taught me discipline and teamwork,” he explains. “I am a strong advocate of what Joeys strives for: notions of all-round excellence and the nurturing of fine young men, as opposed to a biased focus on mere academic success.”
Boarding allows me to interact with new peers and make new friends … I made many great close mates just in the first term!
Alexander Briscoe (left)
“I love going to the field to kick the ball with a friend and play touch,” says Alexander. “I’ve also found a new sport interest in rowing – I rowed for the Year 10 4th VIII and really loved it the sunrise is always worth seeing! Then I played rugby for winter sport.”
From the enthusiasm of sports rallies to the camaraderie of Saturday sport and afternoon barbecues, Alexander’s account of boarding life at Joeys is filled with vibrant snapshots of a close-knit community.
His start in boarding this year was facilitated by support from peers, school staff and relatives in Sydney. This sense of belonging and community is paramount for any student, but it holds special significance for those from expatriate families. “Boarding allows me to interact with new peers and make new friends … I made many great close mates just in the first term,” says Alexander.
Adapting to boarding life at Joeys also instilled a newfound sense of discipline in Alexander. Early mornings and structured days honed his time management skills, enhancing his performance in both academics and sports. This blend of personal development with academic pursuit is a hallmark of Joeys.
Michael and Sachiko Ng, who live in Hong Kong, decided to send their son Sean (Y9) to Joeys for a deeply personal reason – Old Boy
While Michael had already made up his mind, both Sachiko’s and Sean’s first impressions of Joeys were very positive. “Sean was in awe of the campus and its facilities – he liked the fact Joeys has one large campus and he was so happy when he saw the Design and Technology Precinct classrooms,” recalls Michael.
Sean’s transition into boarding was smooth, thanks to the supportive environment created by the staff and his peers. With his parents 7,400km away, “coming all the way from Hong Kong, with no knowledge of the culture, no friends, I found myself in a very different atmosphere but the people around me, especially the boys who were also starting Year 7, welcomed me and made me feel at home,” reflects Sean. He highlights how Joeys has contributed to his personal development, with his involvement in co-curricular activities including tennis, debating, Game Changers, Science Club, choir, robotics and music.
A GLOBAL VILLAGE
For expatriate families, Joeys offers a compelling blend of tradition, academic excellence and a supportive community. It’s a place where students from around the city, country and world come together to learn, grow and prepare for the challenges of the future. Joeys strives to ensure boys like Alexander and Sean emerge as confident, well-rounded individuals. It’s a community where every student can find a place to excel, and to belong. █
Sport Lovers Lunch: a highlight of Sean’s time at Joeys has been performing in front of 600 people at this year’s lunch with talented Old Boy Robbie Hunt (2022) and classmate Risheet Mazumdar (Y9)
BURRAMATTA SONGLINES
Unlike anything Joeys has ever presented, Burramatta Songlines was a breathtaking display of storytelling led by our students. A transformative experience showcasing our commitment to truth-telling, it left a lasting impression.
In a setting reminiscent of a riverbank, the audience was taken on a fluid journey through drama, dance, music and art. The Burramatta (Parramatta River) was a driving theme, just as the river is a significant point of reference for Joeys. Over a three-night run in National Reconciliation Week, Burramatta Songlines delivered nine exceptional pieces to a spellbound audience.
Featured music included the haunting tones of “Binna Burra Dreaming”, performed by Lucas Choi (Y12) on cello. Equally impressive was the original composition “Let the River Flow”, devised by Connor Williams (Y12) and supported by Year 11 musicians with George Andreou on vocals. Risheet Mazumdar (Y9) led with his voice in a joyful
New Orleans gospel-style rendition of “Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow”, by the musical powerhouse Archie Roach.
Time seemingly stopped when guest soloist, soprano Josie Ryan, emerged to deliver a haunting arrangement of “Maranoa Lullaby”, accompanied by the Chamber Strings Ensemble. This piece is synonymous with the centrepiece drama about founding Indigenous opera singer Harold Blair. With permission and invaluable insights from his daughter, Nerida, Year 11 Drama students used a researchedbased theatre approach to devise the 30-minute play, “Harold”.
Blair was a trailblazer who challenged public perceptions about Aboriginal people through his music. Our students creatively portrayed
Blair’s life, selecting key moments that led to the discovery of his beautiful voice by a union man named Harry Green, portrayed by Kaya Ozen (Y11).
Nerida says she will forever cherish the experience: “The way the boys performed their parts gave life to not only Harold’s story, but to Harry Green, mum and Aboriginal people fighting for a place and a sense of belonging in this world and this country. I’m so honoured to have been a part of this story.”
Compelling performances by Year 11 students Kavan Meegamuge, Frederick Harrison, Kaya Ozen and Darnell Murray Gibbs – who played Blair – captivated the audience. “Everyone has a different story. You don’t know what someone has been through until you’ve
truly heard their story. That’s why I love the learning process in Drama,” says Kaya.
“Harold” concluded with an archival recording from the Bob Crosby Show (1966), singing “You’ll Never Walk Alone” – a definitive anthem at Joeys and an unearthed parallel of Blair’s story with the history of the College and, importantly, with reconciliation.
Weaved throughout each night, the drama performances were outstanding, with the opening immersive act by Year 9 Drama students telling the lifecycle of the eel – a totem of the Darug people – across a backdrop of poetry and music. A powerful monologue by Darnell Murray Gibbs of an extract from the acclaimed play “City of Gold” was raw, honest and thought-provoking.
Year 10 Drama students performed “What’s in a Name? Why Don’t We Know?”, reviving lost stories of significant Aboriginals. Inspired by a Museum of Contemporary Art piece, the drama was presented through the lens of Governor Lachlan Macquarie in a reflection on colonisation. Bangarra Dance Theatre’s Youth Programs educator, Shane Carroll, says these “untold” stories were metaphorically “warmed back to life like around the fire”, through the performances of Oliver Goold as Macquarie, Flynn Chard as explorer Matthew Flinders, and Zachary Anderson as Bungaree.
The partnership with Bangarra was transformative for a group of Indigenous boys. They worked with Bangarra’s Tom Kelly to devise an original piece, “Song Cycles”, performed in bare feet as a gesture to connection to Country. Shane Carroll was impressed by the commitment and efforts to ensure cultural safety and protocols. “There is absolutely no doubt that it was all worth it. Witnessing the boys’ confidence grow and the joy shared by the audiences has been magical.”
Each evening, a yarn panel shared their response to the performances. Old Boys Kobi Ashby (2023), Cayden Close (2023), Alexander Roche (2023), Zac Burgess (2020) and Jackson Phillips (2018) were joined by staff, Lesley Maher, Jess Simon and Alice Hann, alongside playwright and director Wesley Enoch AM, performer Russell Cheek, artistic director Tom Kelly and Darug Elder Chris Tobin. William Barton, a board member of Sydney Symphony, Indigenous composer and performer, led the audience in an impromptu song at one night’s yarn.
Head of Music, Paul Howe, in partnership with Head of Drama, Pat O’Shea, devised the showcase as part of Drama Extension and
the co-curricular program. “We collaborated through the Industry Professional Partnership program with a number of people, including performer Russell Cheek, who worked with the boys through improvisation and play building to write the script for ‘Harold’,” says Mr O’Shea.
The result? Extraordinary drama, music, dance and research-based theatre. “Seeing the talent that has come out with the Old Boys here is amazing. And the drama and music departments working together has been really something to see the students embodying the stories. This is why drama is so important in schools,” reveals Russell.
Douglas Melrose-Ray, Associate Chief Executive, Association of Independent Schools of NSW, saw the show as an “igniter, an exemplar, and a template for the way forward”, not just for Joeys, but for other schools.
THE CREATIVE PROCESS
Joeys is renowned for pushing the boundaries of education through the performing arts, and Burramatta Songlines is no exception. Much more than a performance, Burramatta Songlines embraced cultural perspectives and inclusion. With the river as a metaphorical throughline, Indigenous students spent time at the river’s edge at the start of the process, connecting with water and Country. Alongside guidance from Bangarra, and cultural consultation with Joeys’ parent Kylie Tarleton, Visual Arts also played an integral role in the production.
“Joeys is charging forward in using the arts as a medium for exposing untold stories,” says Mr Howe. “The collaborative art piece invited people to ‘build the river’, with the audience first witnessing, then adding to the art and making comments as part of the ball of yarn.”
In envisioning this artwork, Visual Arts teacher Jess Simon used an old map of St Joseph’s from a black and white postcard, winding up the harbour from Circular Quay. “Each night, people could add ‘water’ using threads of material, adding their own words associated with reconciliation as ‘songlines’ –exchanging stories to acknowledge the past, the present and how we might move forward in the future,” says Mrs Simon.
Burramatta Songlines was an exciting part of our performing arts program this year, with one audience member having the final word: “The comradeship and love for music melted my heart. It was sublime and it gave me chills. The boys knocked it out of the park, and I can’t wait to hear more!” █
Oliver Goold (Y10)
Year 9 Drama students
Chamber Strings Ensemble
Year 11 Drama: Kavan Meegamuge and Darnell Murray Gibbs
STATINGtheir case
AOn a visit back to Joeys from his home in New York, Jack Wright (2004) found himself in conversation with William McCarthy (Y12), who was selected as captain of the Australian Schools Debating Team. Following in Jack’s footsteps, William is the second student in the College’s history to be selected for the Australian team.
fter representing New South Wales at the National Schools Debating Championships in Adelaide, William went on to compete in the prestigious World Schools Debating Championship in Belgrade, Serbia, in July, with his team making it through to the Octofinals, finishing 12th out of 68 countries.
“Representing Australia at Worlds was incredible!” said William. “After each debate I would get messages from JoeBoys at home as well as people on the Australian debating circuit who were so supportive. I enjoyed every debate at Worlds. Debating topics from post-Yugoslavia justice,
French colonialism in West Africa and the New Age wellness culture was an experience I will never forget.”
Jack represented Australia in Calgary, Canada, in 2005, when his team won the Worlds. His interest in debating continued at the University of Sydney, where he ranked 10th best speaker in the world at the World University Debating Championships 2006.
On meeting Jack, William noted, “Jack was the first person I’d met who had been to Serbia I had no idea what I was in for, but the atmosphere was extremely exciting, from the 2300-year-old fortress to the Danube and the burek.”
DEDICATED TO DEBATING
William’s dedication to debating has been evident throughout his years at Joeys, after he was inspired watching his brother Darcy (2018). William was a member of the 2022 premiership-winning First Debating team, 2023 co-premiers, and the runners-up this year.
His achievements in debating have also opened doors for his academic pursuits. “I’m planning to study Arts/Law or Economics/ Law at the University of Sydney. Debating will definitely help me get there,” William shared. “My grandfather is a diplomat [so] I’m thinking of studying International Relations as part of my arts degree.”
He also hopes to uphold the legacy of Joeys Old Boys in university debating: “I am very grateful for the support and help that Joeys has provided me to get to this stage. As I enter university, I look forward to trying to maintain the reputation of Joeys alumni who have become Worlds Grand finalists, Australasian and Australian Champions and the number one ranked debater in Australasia, all in in the last three years.”
Following William’s return from Serbia, Debating and Public Speaking Convenor,
Lara Le Febvre said, “Representing Australia on an international stage is an honour that few get to experience, and William’s teachers, peers and family couldn’t be prouder”.
THE PATH TO JOURNALISM
Reflecting on his time at Joeys, Jack highlighted the significant impact debating had on his career. “Debating definitely formed my interest in the subject matter to be passionate about understanding what’s happening,” he said. “It never felt like a chore for me to consume the press the best thing that I got out of debating [was] a worldliness and a natural curiosity to engage with issues.”
In his final year at the College, Jack was Debating captain and GPS captain, the first strike speaker and “an utterly convincing and masterful wordsmith, who clinically exposed the opposition’s flaws” (College Magazine 2004).
Jack’s career path took an unexpected turn when he decided to pursue journalism after 15 years in finance. He ran global markets for JP Morgan in New York and worked at Bank of America Merrill Lynch in London, Hong Kong and Sydney, before returning to journalism. “I always wanted to be a journalist, but I ended
up in finance. During Covid, I did my master’s degree at Harvard.” He now works at the Washington Post, contributes to the Australian Financial Review and hosts the podcast “The Intersection”.
Debating played a crucial role in developing skills that have been invaluable throughout his career, including quick thinking and effective communication. Debating “gives you a unique perspective on issues, which is crucial when covering complex geopolitical matters,” he added.
When asked what advice he would give to students interested in pursuing journalism, Jack emphasised the importance of building a rapport with everyone, “you have to apply the lens evenly a part of the craft of being a journalist is asking the difficult questions”.
“If you’re genuinely interested in the issues, it will reflect in your work,” he advised. “But not everyone is like that today. A lot of it is ‘access journalism’, where people just get close to the source and the source knows that they can manipulate the narrative.”
He also highlighted debating’s practical benefits: “It’s incredibly helpful in your career progression because it looks really good on your CV, and it helps differentiate you from others.” His advice to William was to “embrace your Australian-ness, be yourself and have fun”.
William shares an interest in international relations with Jack, who has interviewed many high-profile subjects for his podcast, including Australian Ambassador to the US and former Treasurer of Australia The Hon. Joe Hockey, author and Putin critic Bill Browder and Californian Congressman Eric Swalwell, who ran the Trump impeachment.
“I spend a lot of time in Washington interviewing Congresspeople, diplomats, even spies. Just walking around the Capitol Building and the State department I still sort of pinch myself,” shared Jack, as he encouraged William to pursue his dreams.
As William heads off to university, he will continue to inspire the next generation of Joeys’ debaters, just as Jack Wright inspired him. Competing for Australia is an outstanding accomplishment, and William’s future in debating and beyond looks promising. █
Old Boy connection: Jack Wright was happy to chat with William McCarthy about his debating success and future career
2024 GPS 1st and 2nd Debating teams: Ms Lara Le Febvre (Convenor), Edward O’Connell (Y10), Jeremy Klepac (Y12), Matthew Reeves (Y11), Jude Timbs (Y11), John Toohey (Y11), William McCarthy (Y12), Headmaster Mr Michael Blake
HUMBLE OF SPIRIT
Joeys rich tradition of athletic excellence was highlighted by Francis ‘Frank’ Hegerty (2000) during his inspiring speech at a Headmaster’s Assembly earlier this year. Frank, a distinguished alumnus and Olympian, embodies the spirit of perseverance that Joeys aims to instil in all students.
Frank made his mark in rowing at Joeys, serving as the stroke for the champion crew that secured the Australian Schoolboy Eights Championship title for the College, an historic first. Frank encouraged Joeys boys to pursue their goals boldly. His own path from a Joeys student with Olympic aspirations to a world-class athlete exemplifies the heights that can be reached through determination and hard work.
Another Old Boy Rex Greer (1956), from Moree, was only in Year 10 in 1956 when he was unexpectedly called into the First VIII rowing crew, which went on to win the Head of the River. Rex has a simple piece of advice for Joeys boys: “Just give your best. Never give up, anything is possible. At 85 years old, I am the last surviving member of that crew, as far as I’m aware.”
“What sets Joeys boys apart in sports is their ordinariness and humility. They play for enjoyment rather than results. Participating in sports at Joeys shaped my character and life beyond school. I wasn’t much of a scholar, but sport gave me self-confidence and self-worth. It was a wonderful start to my life,” recalls Rex. “Sport brings you together with all types of people you might otherwise have never met. Winning the Head of the River was one of those unforgettable moments.”
In addition to rowing, Rex played in the Second XV – rugby is in the Greer’s DNA, with Rex’s son Jonathan (1988) and his grandsons Sam (2020) and Arthur (Y12) also excelling on the rugby field, selected as GPS representatives while at Joeys. Rex’s oldest son Dale (1986) was vice-captain of the undefeated Fourth XV in his final year at the College.
In 1956, Rex’s Second XV team were “premiers and champions, which was a huge thrill”. He clearly remembers that “when the schools did their due diligence on all the teams afterwards, it was discovered that another GPS school had a 21-year-old and a 23-year-old in their team” – a memorable tale for the postmatch celebrations!
CELEBRATING ALL EFFORTS
Many Joeys boys embody the values espoused by Frank and Rex, not only those selected in the top teams but those who show up and give their best every week. These athletes, who may not always make headlines, contribute immensely to Joeys sporting spirit.
In their final year at Joeys, a number of athletes are among the many who will leave a lasting impression. Samuel Basha (Y12) and twins Tomas Moloney (Y12) and Matias Moloney (Y12) emerged victorious to win gold in the Coxed Four final at the World Rowing
Arthur (Y12), Jonathan (1988), Sam (2020) and Rex (1956) Greer
Championships held in St Catharines, Canada this August. As members of Joeys GPS Head of the River First VIII winning crew, all three have had a year they will never forget.
Also in Year 12 this year, Billy Blair’s dedication to athletics saw him excel from a young age. While at Joeys, Billy is most proud of his GPS athletics performances: “I have enjoyed representing Joeys. I’ve had to run up age groups a few times, which has been challenging, and I’m proud to have secured nine GPS records during my time here.”
Billy inspires his peers with his unwavering commitment, having defiantly overcome an injury where he snapped his tibia and fibula when he was 14 years old. This year, Billy won two gold medals at the Junior Athletics Championships in South Australia, in the U18 100m hurdles and U18 4x100m relay. He increased his world ranking from number seven to number one as State Champion in the 110m hurdles in March. In June, Billy competed at the Oceania Athletics Championships, again taking gold in the hurdles. Also a talented rugby player, Billy was selected in the U18 NSW rugby sevens team and earned his first cap for Ireland’s U18s rugby sevens team at the European Championships in France in July.
Billy has undoubtedly inspired the growing success in hurdles at Joeys – in this year’s final GPS Athletics Carnival, our hurdlers competed brilliantly, with Monty Schmude (Y12), Finnegan Boyd (Y12) and Max Palmisani (Y11), as well as Billy, all winning their 110m finals. In younger age divisions, William Carroll (Y8), Jackson Ross (Y9) and Jake Fourie (Y10) also had wins!
As for the future, Billy is aiming high, aspiring to represent Australia at Commonwealth and Olympic levels in rugby sevens or athletics. Balancing the demands of his sporting commitments with academic work has been challenging. “I have learnt through my sports
that I will get out what I put in, and I try to apply this philosophy to my studies as well –my teachers were incredibly supportive of my goals and helped keep me on track,” says Billy. Hayden Ciguenza (Y12), this year’s First VI Tennis captain – playing alongside Connor Guest (Y12), Thomas Shaw (Y12), Seamus Shepherd (Y12), Lucas Ribeiro Sardinha (Y11) and Jake McKiernan (Y9) – has a keen strategic mind and relentless practise regimen that proved pivotal to Joeys premiership win in 2023. “Being part of Joeys first-ever premiership winning tennis team is an achievement I will always cherish,” he shares.
Hayden was also captain of the NSW Pizzey Cup team, selected in the CIS 18&U team and the GPS first grade representative team, as well as making the All Australian Schoolboys team. “Every match is a new challenge, and I strive to represent myself and Joeys with the utmost pride,” he says. “In what is largely an individual sport, Joeys has given me the unique opportunity to play tennis in a team. I have learnt so much about what it means to be a part of a group of blokes who push each other to their limits to achieve a common goal!”
Cooper Portlock (Y12) finished the 2024 GPS swimming season with multiple recordbreaking performances and was selected in the CIS and NSW All Schools teams. At the first GPS competition carnival, he carved through the water in the Open 100m medley relay in a time of 59.54 seconds, shattering the record. Continuing his extraordinary form, Cooper broke his own record in the 400m individual medley at the second carnival. At the fourth competition carnival, he made history again, breaking a longstanding record in the senior 200m backstroke to assert his dominance in the pool.
At the 2024 Australian Age Championships in April, Cooper won two gold medals. At the NSW All Schools Championships he racked up another gold for the CIS squad in the Boys 17&O 200m backstroke. At the Australian Swimming Trials in Brisbane in July, Cooper competed against the best open age swimmers in the country as they vied for places in the Olympic team. In July, he won a silver medal swimming for NSW in the Boys 17&O 200m backstroke at the School Sport Australia Championships.
“I am proud of setting and breaking multiple school records during my time at Joeys,” says Cooper. “Swimming requires discipline and a strong will. Each lap in the pool is a step towards reaching my goals, whether it’s improving my technique, building endurance or setting a new personal record,” he states. “Swimming feels like an escape from the rest of the world. It has allowed me to learn about my capabilities and resilience and understand what is truly important in life. I’ve really enjoyed the camaraderie of my teammates at Joeys.”
Simon Pennington, Director of Co-curricular, notes: “The achievements of these Joe-Boys have been nothing short of inspirational. At Joeys, we nurture each student’s potential, both on and off the field. The teamwork, dedication and perseverance demonstrated by these young men exemplify the core values we hold dear. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments and look forward to seeing them continue to excel in the future”.
We truly appreciate the dedication of all our competitors, whether they experience victory or not. Their stories inspire Joeys boys to aim high, embrace challenges and develop habits that lead to lifelong success. █
Hayden Ciguenza
Cooper Portlock
FINDING THEIR VOICE
Award-winning Australian author and journalist, William Kostakis, captivated our students as our Writer in Residence for a week in September. Just like his novels, Will’s writing workshops and classes showed his unique ability to blend humour, heart and the complex themes of family, identity and love, to inspire Joeys boys.
Will became a published author through perseverance and his unshakeable self-belief. As Writer in Residence, he shared his story with a wit and honesty that encouraged Joeys boys to dive headfirst into their creative writing. “I thought I could write the great Australian novel,” Will
laughed, recounting how his passion for writing began. “By the end of my first year of high school, I had written my first book – it was twice as long as ‘Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix’!”
With a mix of youthful confidence and persistence, Will sent his book off to Penguin
Publishers, convinced that a publishing deal – and “JK Rowling money” – was only days away. “I kept checking the mailbox every day,” he said. Six months later, he received a letter that shattered his teenage dreams – his novel was rejected. But that rejection became a springboard rather than a dead end.
“That is the magic of school,” Will explained to a group of Year 7 Joeys boys. “Every year you’re getting smarter without realising it, just by reading and writing more.” He rewrote his novel, and eventually, he started getting advice from publishers, rather than rejection.
Harnessing his energy and persistence, along with the help of teachers, family and friends, he improved his craft. And, by Year 12, a publisher was interested. However, in typical teen fashion, Will had a hilarious mishap – he hadn’t actually written the book he had pitched!
“I may have inadvertently misled every major publisher in Australia that I had written a book,” he confessed. So, he immediately whipped up the best first chapter he had ever written in his life. And it worked.
By the end of Year 12, Will had signed his first book deal for “Loathing Lola”, having already won the Sydney Morning Herald award for Young Writer of the Year for a collection of short stories while still at high school.
For the aspiring writers at Joeys, Will offered valuable advice and revealed the lessons he’s learned throughout his career. He left Joeys boys with a clear message: embrace the resources at school, connect with teachers who can help you along the way and never stop working towards your goal.
His latest novel “We Could Be Something” was awarded the prestigious Prime Minister’s Literary Award for Young Adult Literature this year and was shortlisted for the Victorian and New South Wales Premier’s Literary Awards and the Queensland Literary Award.
Will Kostakis has proven himself to be a voice for young people, weaving together heartfelt stories with humour and authenticity. Head of English, Michael Kavanagh, noted, “Will’s time at Joeys has undoubtedly left a mark on our students, and through his advice and personal insights, we hope he has inspired the next generation of storytellers.” █
FUTURE-READY TEACHING: a new chapter in excellence
Learning is at the heart of what we do. We invest not only in our students’ learning, but in the development of our teachers. Forming future leaders is an important aim of the St Joseph’s College Institute, which was launched in June this year, showing our commitment to nurturing educators at every stage of their careers.
The Institute is grounded in three core pillars: leadership, pedagogy and spirituality. Headmaster, Michael Blake, emphasised the fundamental importance of these pillars to the College’s identity. “As a Catholic school, spirituality is central,” Mr Blake said. “It is essential we create space to explore with our staff that deeper theological understanding of our history and how it informs our approach to learning and leadership.”
This initiative in advancing educational practices was marked by the first keynote address from leadership and communications expert, Aimee Presnall. With her experience in educational leadership and wellness, Ms Presnall shared strategies for fostering positive team dynamics and authentic leadership, aligning with the College’s mission to support staff wellbeing. She underscored the importance of collective responsibility for wellbeing at all levels – individual, workplace and community.
The Institute’s three-part launch next explored the education potential of generative AI, through the lens of Macquarie University’s Professor Matt Bower. Wrapping up the launch series in October, Professor Br David Hall presented on the gift of Catholic education.
EMBRACING INNOVATION IN EDUCATION
Professor Bower provided a thought-provoking perspective on how generative AI can enhance teaching and learning. He encouraged educators to see AI as a tool to complement, not replace, their role. AI can automate routine tasks, allowing teachers to reclaim valuable time to invest in supporting each student’s unique needs.
Darren Frost, Director of Teaching and Learning, aptly noted, “On a simple level, it’s about differentiation. Making sure that learning is accessible to all students. Too often, teachers say they’re time poor, so they teach to the middle. There’s really no excuse with this technology; it will help teachers to support all the students in the classroom. That’s its powerful merit.”
The discussion highlighted AI’s capacity to support differentiated learning, making education accessible to all students. As Louise Fitzgerald, Assistant Head of Mathematics,
pointed out, “The idea that we need to be educating students to use AI as a learning tool, not an answering tool, I think is really powerful. What we can do as teachers is embrace it and educate students how to use it as a learning tool, not an answering tool.”
The potential of AI to revolutionise education by allowing more tailored and effective teaching was a recurrent theme. While AI offers many benefits, ethical considerations remain paramount. Professor Bower stressed the need for transparency and fairness in using AI, ensuring it does not perpetuate biases or violate privacy.
Looking forward, Professor Bower envisioned a future where AI fosters creativity and critical thinking in the classroom. “AI should be seen as a means to innovate pedagogical approaches and design new learning experiences,” he said. He emphasised the need for educators to prepare students for a future where technology is pervasive, guiding them to use it ethically and effectively.
The Institute aims to ensure St Joseph’s College remains at the forefront of educational innovation. As we embrace new technologies and methodologies, we remain committed to nurturing Joeys boys, and the educators who guide them. █
TWO DECADES OF OUTDOOR EDUCATION
In north-western Sydney, home to the Colo River and the spectacular Wollemi National Park, the SJC Outdoor Education Centre team has cultivated a centre for learning and growth. Earlier this year, outdoor educators Paul and Kristi Bryant transitioned to a new phase in their lives. Over the past two decades, they pioneered a transformative outdoor education program, enriching the lives of countless Joe-Boys.
When Paul first encountered the rugged beauty of Colo in 2002, the foundations of the Centre, under the previous Head, Mark Brackenreg, were well-laid. Ahead was an adventure that saw the Bryants welcoming their two children, living onsite and devoting their lives to growing the Centre’s educational philosophy. Alongside teaching the boys – everything from camping and mountain biking to life skills that transfer to other parts of their lives – the team runs the property, attending to administration, flood management, chasing cattle and fixing fences.
Kristi’s background in inclusive education, curriculum mapping and outdoor play led to a turning point in the outdoor education focus, underpinned by the unique skill set of the small team as well as robust support from College leadership. “I started doing outdoor ed back in ’92 and it’s changed a lot. And I think that is a necessary thing it’s one thing we have done really well – evolve and change,” states Paul.
Kristi agrees, with the program adapting to boys’ different life skills, as well as a need to “slow things down”. Collaborating with the College’s Wellbeing and Learning Enrichment teams, they recognised how each team’s work complemented the others. “Outdoor education is such a multifaceted subject. So we changed the theme to ‘Learning, Growth and Leadership’ – learning about yourself, learning about country and learning about the Centre,” says Kristi.
Looking back, the Centre was built on a philosophy similar to Kurt Hahn’s Outward
Bound model, “which, among other things, focused on respect and belief in [boys] to face challenges head on. This could involve extreme physical challenges at the time perceived as masculine strength,” explains Kristi. “And boys do need physical challenge because it develops their strength and resilience. But resilience is often about being able to ask for help.”
Kristi notes there are still many physical challenges for the boys to experience at Colo, extending them out of their comfort zones through activities like bushwalking, camping, canoeing, mountain biking and rock climbing.
The boys thrive when given the freedom to play, to make their own choices, to learn life skills in a supportive environment.
Kristi and Paul Bryant
FREEDOM TO PLAY
As the Centre nears its 40th anniversary, the transformation is profound. The Bryants, alongside outdoor educators Brendan Davies and Nathan Jenkins, instigated changes to match the shift in societal expectations as well as the developmental needs of Joeys boys – moving away from 40-kilometre hikes and climbing mountains, to more nuanced programs, where asking for help is as important as the challenge itself.
Kristi’s introduction of free play embedded a focus on the mental health benefits of being outdoors, developing peer relationships and giving Joeys boys much-needed unstructured time. This dynamic shift from physical challenges to a curriculum-mapped program that nurtures mental health, emotional intelligence and wellbeing, is relatively rare. “We’ve seen the boys thrive when given the freedom to play, to make their own choices, to learn life skills in a supportive environment,” says Kristi.
Paul reminisces about the days when rainfall was an invitation for adventure, rather than a dash to shelter. Now the focus is on action–consequence teaching – the boys are told “they’re not in trouble for muddy clothes [or] for being wet. It’s okay for them to be kids and play around, but, if you’re going to wear your shoes inside … you have to clean up the mess!” says Kristi.
Today, outdoor education fosters personal interactions where technology is replaced by
conversation, and learning is led by peers. “We do a lot of explicit teaching about language and interaction and guide the boys into thinking ‘how might someone present as anxious, nervous, angry, confused?’ Outdoor education gives boys a chance to learn from each other, and for us to support them,” says Kristi.
This is perhaps the most significant change at Colo, with the pastoral care dimension transforming it to a base for holistic growth, mirroring the College’s Marist charism.
“Changing the themes and the pace has helped Year 7 students to connect with Colo I had this realisation around what we were trying to achieve when we had some boys saying, ‘I never want to go outdoors again’,” recalls Paul. “Now we see the younger boys getting really excited we see a lot of koalas, and the boys want to talk about the link to Colo, with Colo meaning koala.”
“We have a better stepping stone process so when they come back in Years 8 and 9, they think ‘I know this place, I know these people’. That’s the time to really extend them, pushing through comfort zones or challenging how they interact and I’ve seen the results, when they come back as leaders in Year 11, they are really good young men it’s a real proud dad moment for me,” reflects Paul.
A highlight from their time at Colo is the Year 9 Father–Son camp, which Paul says has a lot of value. “One father recently said, ‘I don’t know what you said to the boys but my son came up to me after your presentation and he
hugged me my relationship with my son has never looked back’,” recalls Paul. “That meant a lot to me, but it’s not just me. I said to him, ‘you came up, you gave that weekend to your son’.”
Reflecting on those weekends over his time at Colo, Paul says they “are probably some of the most powerful 24 hours I spent in the outdoor world each year. Indigenous Family Weekends are the same; I love that the College embraces the Indigenous community and brings everyone together”.
Paul and Kristi are immensely proud of how the program has evolved. With the support of their close-knit team, the Centre has blossomed into a multidisciplinary educational haven, where immersive life skills in geography, history and creative arts intersect with mountain biking, high ropes courses, canoeing and camping.
Paul’s path is now steering towards aviation, following his passion for flying as part of rescue helicopter crews, while Kristi focuses on family and further research into the value of play. Their departure marks the end of an era, yet their legacy of genuine care, transforming so many young lives, will resonate around the grounds of Colo and the College for years to come.
A NEW START
David Maskell, who took over from Paul as the Head of Outdoor Education this year, notes that: “Paul’s legacy after 22 years at the Colo Campus will be large footprints to follow. During his tenure the program has grown and matured into a complex, curriculum-driven program with the highest quality safety and risk assessment systems, which are some of the best I’ve experienced in my 28 years professionally.”
“Paul and Kristi’s influence will be seen and felt at Colo for a long time, extending beyond the Campus into the wider Upper Colo community where they were loved and appreciated for their time spent in the Valley,” reveals David.
More recently, Luke Howie and his family joined David, Nathan and Brendan as part of the Outdoor Education team.
In every reflection shared by the Bryants, a deep passion for outdoor education is evident, as well as a real joy in being part of shaping the character of the young Joe-Boys entrusted to their care. They leave behind a program and a philosophy that sees learning, much like the great outdoors, as an adventure to be embraced with resilience and curiosity. █
STUDENT LIFE
On a perfect sunny August day, the Joeys community came together for the 2024 Sport Lovers Lunch. In the special setting of Allianz Stadium, 583 guests were treated to memorable musical performances from Year 9 students Risheet Mazumdar and Sean Ng, as well as celebrated Old Boy Robbie Hunt (2022).
Fresh from the training field, current Wallaby Tom Wright (2015) welcomed the crowd with his video message, and Paralympian and Winter Olympian Evan O’Hanlon (2006) shared valuable insight into the Joeys’ qualities that helped him to win seven Olympic medals – five Gold, one Silver, one Bronze.
Fundraising was led by veteran sport broadcaster Jim Wilson and auctioneer Scott Bailey (1995), with fabulous prizes, generously donated by our community, creating interest and hearty competition among the attendees. The greatly-anticipated live auction of four seats in the Headmaster’s section for any rugby home game in the 2025 season received particular interest – the crowd was thrilled when a new parent was the winning bidder.
We are grateful to everyone within the vast Joeys community who helped make this event a success, providing crucial support for the Boys from the Bush bursary program. █
Class of 2023 Old Boys: William Perkins, Xavier Fink, Charles Morrison, Henry Spencer, Jack MacLaren
+ years of tennis
Tennis was introduced as a recreational sport at the College in 1911, with the official opening of a clay tennis court. In 2023, our Firsts achieved an astounding 13 victories in 14 matches – after half a century of competitive tennis at Joeys, our tennis players etched their names in College history, winning the premiership for the first time since the GPS competition began in 1972.
1937: Tennis champions – P Daves (A), E Lynch (B), G Collins (C)
1937: Division 4 tennis – J Dickie, P Hartney, P O’Brien, T Orvad, K Williams, SJ Cameron
1911: 7 May opening of the first tennis court near the Luke Street wall – visitors and Brothers present at the opening: Br William, Br Athanasius, Br Edmund, Br Antoninus, Br Edwin, Mr JJ Carroll, the Hon. L Heydon, MLC, Fr Talon SM, Br Victor, Fr Nicolas, Fr Aubenac
1936: The opening of the new tennis courts
1939: Gerald Carter, tennis champion
College champion Gerald Carter (centre back) – the College Annual notes: “The tournament this year lost none of its former interest for the boys. In fact, unusual enthusiasm has been shown in this year’s competition, during which some excellent tennis was witnessed; the finalists were Gerald Carter and Noel Layton. Both players showed flashes of real talent.”
Benjamin Stapp
winner of the
1972: Open A tennis team (from left): Paul Reddy, Daniel Reading, Roger Garsia (captain), Michael Ryan. Generally, 1972 was a year of development for tennis in the first year of official GPS competition, with up to 200 boys involved in competition or coaching, utilising the services of professional coach Geoff Pryor.
1977: College Open Doubles Champions
– Stephen Seeto (1977) and Garry O’Brien (1977). It was in this year the College had its first win since the start of the GPS competition, with the Second Four of Peter Eccleston (1978), Cletus Chan (1978), Jeremy Oorloff (1977, captain) and Peter Johnston (1979), finishing the season undefeated Premiers and Champions. Peter Johnston, playing at the age of 14 in the Opens, was commended for going through the season undefeated in singles. Stephen Seeto was captain of the First Four and was chosen in the Combined GPS Second team.
a memorable moment, the
by the
1979: In tennis this year, the College Second Four were GPS Premiers for the third consecutive year – the team was Roderick Lindsay (1979), Nigel (Derek) Heath (1980), Peter Johnston (1979, captain), Bruce Liu (1979), with all tennis players benefitting from the three new tennis courts built at the corner of Mark and Mary Streets.
2023: The Tennis department was awarded the prize for Most Outstanding School at the Tennis NSW Awards, recognising the College’s tennis program structure, relationship development with external partners and coaches, all-round student enthusiasm, exceptional season performance in school competition and integration into a broader PDHPE curriculum.
2023: The Premiership team led by co-captains Vitorio Ribeiro Sardinha and Dougall Tyrwhitt Back Row: LA Hoad, SF Shepherd, HM Ciguenza, CC Guest, JJ Matuszny-Santana Front Row: Mr C Hart (Convenor), VO Ribeiro Sardinha, Mr D Moore (Coach), DR Tyrwhitt, Mr S Ede (Coach)
1999:
–
Australian Schoolboys Tennis Singles Championships, held in Brisbane
2019: 13A and 13B tennis Back Row: TJ Shaw, BL Richards, L Choi, JP FitzGerald Front Row: LF Lee-Field, TW Cheadle, Mr M Villa (Coach), CM Manley, TS Purcell
1981: Tennis Combined GPS Representatives – Matthew Condon, Matthew Ford, Patrick Mulqueeney
1940:
1974: In the third year of GPS competition, two members of the College Firsts team, John Grogan and Paul Price, were selected to play in the Combined GPS teams against the Combined Associated Schools’ teams at White City. Senior tennis team (from left): Robert Dunne, John Grogan, Peter O’Brien, Paul Price
In
2023 Premiers were presented with the shield
captains of the 1972 and 1974 Firsts Tennis teams, Roger Garsia and Paul Price, after their final match, where they had an outstanding 9–0 win against The King’s School at home.
2017: Firsts tennis – Back Row: M Villa, S McDonald, Mr R Henry (Coach) Front Row: B Junee, D Sevil, B Muirhead, W Sidgreaves
SIR EUGENE ‘PAT’ GORMAN
1909
In 1904 Eugene Gorman won a £40 scholarship from a competition run by the Bendigo Austral Society, which, along with the kindness of the Marist Brothers, enabled his enrolment at St Joseph’s College. He excelled academically, winning medals in the Junior Public and Senior examinations. He is remembered as a devoted President of the Sodality of the Most Holy Sacrament during his last year at Joeys and he was awarded the Emilian Gold Medal for Best Senior Pass.
Eugene was keenly interested in debating. The College Magazine (1907) reveals he made a brilliant speech that “will long leave a vivid impression of his oratorical powers on those who had the pleasure of hearing it” on the topic “Should capital punishment be abolished?” This experience undoubtedly remained with him throughout his life – he was deeply opposed to capital punishment, and he wrote an article in the Herald Sun (1966) against the execution of the last person to be judicially executed in Australia.
The first Illuminated Address (above left) was awarded to Eugene in 1905 for First Prize in the Austral Literary and Debating Society’s 9th Annual Musical, Elocutionary and Literary Competition. The second was presented to Eugene by his peers upon his departure – such was his standing in the Class of 1909, this Illuminated Address (left) states:
“We, the students, wish to convey to you on the eve of your departure, our big appreciation of your efforts as a writer, speaker and historian. We also desire to express our admiration of your exemplary conduct — you have been a model to us all – and also, of your keenness in everything that affected the wellbeing of Alma Mater. We beg to offer you this slight memento of our love and esteem”.
He wrote in his unpublished memoirs, “Quitting college was quite a sad day for me”. Eugene was admitted to practice as a
barrister and solicitor in 1914, only five months prior to the outbreak of war. He enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in 1915 and served in Europe on the Western Front with the 22nd battalion. In May 1917, during the Second Battle of Bullecourt, he was severely wounded but remained at his post until relieved. For this, he was awarded the Military Cross.
He returned to the Bar after World War I and was recognised as one of the best and most eloquent criminal barristers of his time, with a large commercial and criminal practice. He was a prominent figure in horse racing as well as an influential advisor to the Country Party Premier of Victoria, Albert Dunstan. He took silk as a Queen’s Counsel in 1929, retiring in 1940.
His interests were wide, and his influence was significant, as he came out of retirement to act as Counsel at the royal commission on bribery charges in State parliament (1952), the Petrov inquiry (1954) and to defend the racehorse trainer Harry Bird in 1969. Appointed CBE in 1960, he was elevated to Knight Commander (KBE) in 1966.
His son with his Parisian-born wife Marthe Vallée (d.1966), Pierre, was born deaf in 1924. Dr Pierre Gorman CBE OM (d. 2006) was a world authority on deaf communication, a generous philanthropist and the first deaf person to graduate with a PhD from Cambridge University.
In his memoirs, Eugene Gorman notes, “I have frequently been asked by young barristers for some easy road to success. There is, of course, no such road. But I know an easy road to moderate success, namely the keeping of two notebooks, one to contain literary quotations culled from the young man’s reading and one to contain notes from his perusal of legal writings”.
In such a notebook, he wrote, “Every calling is great if greatly pursued” – a fitting analogy for his life.
KBE, MC, QC (1891–1973) / Class of
100 years ago: The
1924 Winners of Gold Medals for Good Conduct, which were awarded on the votes of the boys, resulted in the pictured students receiving these special College medals (left to right: Eugene Simmons (second division), Gordon Bull (fourth division), Stewart Newell (third division), Arthur Cunningham (first division)