Inspired by the charism of Edmund Rice the St Edmund’s College Foundation (the Foundation) was established to give financial assistance to marginalised or disadvantaged families so that the cost of educating their sons would be alleviated.
Since its inception in 1988 the Foundation has supported the education of over 100 young men at St Edmund’s College in Canberra.
The Foundation’s aims:
• To support families who are experiencing financial barriers that may limit their ability to provide an Edmund Rice education for their sons.
• To provide appropriate fee relief to ensure students have the quality education they deserve.
• To support families who may be affected by difficult circumstances so students are able to continue their education at St Edmund’s College without disruption.
How to Donate
Contact foundation@sec.act.edu.au or 6239 0673 and ask to speak to our Finance Staff for more information on how to make a donation.
Donations of $2 or more to the St Edmund’s College Foundation are tax deductible in Australia.
“Your donation to the Foundation will enable families in need of help in educating their sons leaving a lasting legacy that will benefit current students as well as students for generations to come.”
JOE ZAVONE
Principal’s Reflection
I am pleased to present the next edition of The Pelican to our alumni. In this edition you will find memories and recollections from an original 1954 student, Morris Trevethan, and (by coincidence) a collection of stories from several alumni from the mid 1980’s and as recent as 2018. It is always such a pleasure reading these recollections and learning what St Edmund’s was like in different eras. I hope you enjoy these contributions just as much as I did.
My sincere thanks to the following alumni for sharing their stories with the Eddies community: Martin Brady (Class of 1987), Michael Cooney (Class of 1989), Matt Harrow (Class of 2018), Nunziante (Nunz) Losanno (Class of 1987), Toby McNamara (Class of 1987), Jackson Stuart (Class of 2017), Morris Trevethan (Class of 1959).
If you are interested in contributing your story to The Pelican in 2025 please email development@sec.act. edu.au and we will guide you through the process. The Pelican is distributed once per semester.
This is my final contribution to The Pelican as I move towards the last few months as Principal of St Edmund’s. Whilst I am greatly looking forward to my retirement, I will nonetheless miss the unique energy and spirit of Eddies. It has been an absolute privilege to serve as the College Principal for the last seven years, seeing a great deal of positive change at the College. Our enrolments in that time have increased by 20% and we have witnessed the return of the great Eddies community spirit.
Community spirit and engagement are vital elements in a Catholic boys school, fostering a sense of belonging, shared values, and collective purpose. By actively participating in school life, students develop empathy, teamwork skills, and a deeper understanding of their faith. This engagement extends beyond the student body, encompassing parents and old boys as well. The involvement of parents and old boys strengthens the school community, contributing to a more vibrant and interconnected school environment, maintaining traditions, offering mentorship, and providing realworld examples of the school’s values in action. Here at St Edmund’s we hope we have developed a comprehensive approach to community engagement, not only enriching the current students’ experiences but also creating a lasting network of support and inspiration. Ultimately, a strong community spirit prepares young men to become responsible, caring citizens who can make meaningful contributions to society long after their school years, while also fostering a lifelong connection to their school. This is
so tangibly evident amongst our old boys community.
This community spirit was also quite strongly evident in our co-curricular Winter season grand final games in Basketball, Football and Rugby Union. These games were very well attended with a great range of current students and staff, parents and old boys.
Special recognition goes to our First XV Rugby team for their exceptional performance in the grand final against Daramalan College. The match was a nail-biter, demonstrating the true spirit of competitive sport. The game remained intensely close throughout, and as the final siren approached, we had all committed ourselves to a narrow defeat. However, in a stunning turn of events, our team scored a try after the siren. This last-second effort secured a narrow victory and brought home the trophy. The excitement and energy surrounding this incredible comeback were palpable, serving as a testament to the determination and skill of our athletes.
The Under 16 Football team faced Canberra Grammar on Saturday 16 September, in what proved to be a thrilling conclusion to the season. Under a beautiful
Autumn sky, our boys burst onto the field with remarkable energy and determination. Despite their spirited performance and a strong opening, Canberra Grammar ultimately claimed victory. The exceptional effort of our U16 squad throughout the season has been instrumental in reigniting passion for Football within our school community.
The following evening, our First V Basketball team took centre court against Marist College in an electrifying showdown. The match was tight from start to finish, with both teams demonstrating exceptional skill and tenacity. In a testament to their perseverance and teamwork, our players emerged triumphant, securing the coveted trophy.
Elsewhere in this publication, you will find a report from Matt de Jongh, President of the Old Boys and Friends Association. Matt and his dedicated team have been pivotal in enriching the Eddies community through their unwavering commitment to numerous events and initiatives. Their efforts have brought us together through memorable occasions such as the Heritage Round, the increasingly popular Blue and White Ball, and the golf day. I would like to express my gratitude to Matt and his team for their invaluable support over the past seven years. Matt’s personal support of both myself and the College has been deeply appreciated. As we look to the future, I have every confidence that the Old Boys and Friends Association will continue to strengthen and unite our community in the years to come.
As I write this final message, I find myself reflecting on not just the past seven years at our College, but on a journey that has spanned four decades in education. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as Principal of St Edmund’s, and as I prepare to close this chapter, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride.
Over the past 40 years, I have witnessed the transformative power of education firsthand. From my early days in the mid 80’s as a young teacher to my role as Principal, I have seen countless students grow, learn, and develop into remarkable individuals. Each day has brought new challenges and triumphs, and I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to
have been a part of this incredible Eddies journey.
During my seven years at Eddies, the community has achieved so much together. We have navigated challenges such as significant hailstorm damage and the pandemic, celebrated successes, and continually strived for excellence in all aspects of College life. I have watched with pride as our students have excelled academically, on the sports field, in the arts, and in service to our community. The dedication of our staff, the support of our parents and old boys, and the enthusiasm of our students have made Eddies a truly special place.
I know that the spirit of our community, the passion for learning, and the commitment to nurturing wellrounded young men will continue to flourish. While my time as Principal comes to an end, my belief in the power of education and my fondness for this wonderful community will endure. I look forward to watching Eddies continue to thrive in the years to come.
Edmund’s to the fore.
Joe Zavone Principal
OLD BOYS AND FRIENDS ASSOCIATION
Greetings St Edmund’s College, Canberra community,
As we stand on the precipice of a new chapter in the annals of our cherished Eddies, it brings me great joy to reflect on the triumphs and shared moments thus far in 2024. As the President of the Old Boys & Friends Association, I am honoured to share with you the highlights that have woven the fabric of tradition, unity, and renewed connections.
Firstly, I would like to acknowledge and thank Joe Zavone for his contribution to not only the College, but also the Old Boys & Friends Association. Since arriving at the College in 2018 Joe has been very supportive of the Association and thanks to Joe the College and Association now co-host events, such as the Blue & White Ball and the Heritage Round. Joe has embraced and worked collaboratively with the Eddies community and should be proud of the legacy that he has created at the college.
The Association is looking forward to the return of Tim Cleary in 2025 as the new Principal of the College. Tim has a long and proud history at the College spanning back to the 1980’s when he began his career as a teacher at the College and then later filled the role of Deputy Principal. There are many old boys and friends within the Eddies community who fondly remember Tim from his time at the College and are very excited about his return. This is not only based on what he achieved while at the College, but his proven track record at other schools such as St Augustine’s College, Sydney.
The first event on the calendar for 2024 was the EdMums Soirée, a cherished annual event, stands as a testament to the profound impact that mothers, grandmothers, and carers have on the Eddies community. This elegant soirée, provided a unique opportunity to celebrate and express gratitude to the incredible women who play an instrumental role in shaping the lives of our Eddies boys. Amidst the ambient glow of camaraderie, the EdMums Soirée fostered connections between current and former Eddies mums, creating a space where shared experiences and stories flourished.
The Blue & White Ball, an integral part of our heritage, took centre stage once again on the evening preceding the Heritage Round. The event, has grown to become the main social event on the College calendar and was attended by over 300 parents, College staff, and old boys. The event served as an opportunity to not only celebrate the 70th anniversary of the College, but also for the College community to thank Joe Zavone for his contribution to the College. A highlight of the night was the roving microphone lead by MC Matt Percy, this session included reflections from old boys, staff and
parents and was most entertaining.
The Heritage Round Reunion Day emerged as a triumph, weaving together nostalgia and forward-looking vision. Old Boys, current students, and College staff joined forces to make this day a resounding success. As we celebrate our community’s unity, we anticipate this event’s continued growth and significance in the years to come.
Since its establishment in 2015, the Old Boys & Friends Association has grown into a cornerstone of our community. The annual events, including the EdMums Soirée, Blue & White Ball, Golf Day, and Heritage Round/Reunion Day, signify our commitment to tradition and unity.
The Association remains dedicated to preserving the legacy of St Edmund’s and fostering connections that transcend time. Visit our website through the College’s online portal, and join us on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to stay connected. Involvement in the Association ensures that you not only contribute to the Association’s endeavours but also support charitable causes through the College Foundation.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the hardworking committee, ensuring the Old Boys & Friends Association thrives and co-hosts successful events with the college. Here’s to another year of unity, tradition, and the enduring spirit of St Edmund’s College, Canberra.
Matt de Jongh President, Old Boys and Friends Association
Mr Tim Cleary, new Principal from 2025 (image courtesy of The Canberra Times)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF STAFF SERVICE
2024 Awards
Congratulations to the following members of staff for the dedicated, long term service to the St Edmund’s community:
25 YEARS
15 YEARS
YEARS
SUE DOWLING
BRIDGET CUSACK
JULIA ROCHE
TIM BIBBENS ANDREW CASTRISSION
HOLLY ELLEM
LINDA MEULEN
ALANA BEARD
JOEL RICHARDSON
PARTNER WITH US DONATIONS AND BEQUESTS
When you give to St Edmund’s College, you are directly investing in our students and supporting their growth and development.
Making a philanthropic gift to the College enables countless opportunities for future generations of Eddies students, including your own child. Our students will enjoy an exceptional and vibrant education that will set them up for a bright and prosperous future.
Your gift allows the College to fulfil its vision of a world where we can provide an education which challenges young men to be the best they can be and opens doors to their future.
WAYS TO GIVE
There are several ways that you can financially support the work of St Edmund’s College. Many donations have tax deductibility status for Australian donors.
One off or regular donation to St Edmund’s College Building Fund
Give a donation so that it can be used where it is most needed. The St Edmund’s College Building Fund enables the community to make a direct contribution to the refurbishment, maintenance and future development of infrastructure at the College. Please contact the College on 6239 0621 and ask to speak to the Principal, or email principal@sec.act.edu.au or make a donation online by visiting www.bpoint.com.au/pay/ christianbrotherscollegestedmunds and selecting Building Fund.
One off or regular donation to the St Edmund’s College Foundation
Inspired by the charism of Edmund Rice, the St Edmund’s College Foundation was established to give financial assistance to marginalised or disadvantaged families so that the cost of educating their sons would be alleviated. Since its inception in 1988 the Foundation has supported the education of hundreds of young men at St Edmund’s. Your donation to the Foundation will enable families in need of help in educating their sons leaving a lasting legacy that will benefit current students as well as students for generations to come.
For more information on how to donate contact foundation@sec.act.edu.au or 6239 0673, or make a donation by visiting www.bpoint.com.au/pay/christianbrotherscollegestedmunds and selecting St Edmund’s College Foundation.
Make a bequest
Those who have experienced the special quality of St Edmund’s can make bequests to the College, so we can continue to deliver excellence in education in the Edmund Rice tradition. A bequest is a very personal form of giving, and a gift to St Edmund’s provides you with the opportunity to create a lasting educational legacy to our future generations of young men.
Please contact us on 6239 0621 and ask to speak to the Principal if you are interested in giving in this way, or email principal@sec.act.edu.au
MORRIS TREVETHAN
Class of 1959
As We Were in ‘54
Boys, current and old, gathered to celebrate St Edmund’s 70th year on Saturday 3rd August. With a Chapel Mass and numerous sports gatherings, a very good attendance. As an 80+ year old arriving to join in I found the school surrounds welcoming and familiar. Significantly expanded, yes, but faces then encountered less familiar. However, that was only until Bishop Pat, our significant old boy and mass cocelebrant, entered the Chapel. Pat and I were in that 1954 first year Senior School intake. 70 years had seen those early ranks thinned. Perhaps some were at the footy! What was it really like for us in those first years? There’d be a thousand stories.
Firstly, I’ll visit the College: In ’54, a fine new structure. It stood out on Canberra Avenue. Light brickwork and top shelf. In ’54 all the teachers were Christian Brothers tasked with starting a new college in The Bush Capital. The brothers new to us, as we were to them. They had been drawn from other Brothers’ schools. The students were a varied lot, save for our age groupings and being an amalgam of boys from the north and south of the dividing Molonglo. New classes and new school mates for us. Some of the new boys also came from far flung Queanbeyan and places south towards Cooma.
In the brand-spanking new school new uniforms, topped by boater hats, we all had to find our place in the sunshine and wind. We had left our co-ed setting for the all-boys, and this for our betterment. Headmaster Br McCarthy, straight from the barmy paradise of Nudgee College (Brisbane) rightfully held lofty ideas as to our essential waypoints. In no uncertain terms we were Catholic; dedicated students; played rugby; and yes, wore straw boater hats. A small set of secondary boys, bypassing the boaters’ issue, went straight to the question of sport. For them, to this point their sport included playing hockey. With only minor skinloss and perhaps some Brophy involvement, a deal was negotiated where the Brothers ok’d a weekend St Edmund’s team. The attached photo attests to the success the deal reached, which certainly affected my school experience.
The Surrounds: On arrival at the school for the 70th celebration the playingfields were packed with young men eager to engage in football. The surrounds included a mix of team members and parents surrounded by an even tighter mix of utes, SUV’s and other people movers, forcing me back onto Canberra Avenue to find another parking spot A big change from ’54, both physical and social. More school; more pupils; more sports field; more ex-pupils and a Canberra Catholic college, Marist as a co-participant. In ‘54 one car families prevailed. Fewer cars and less transport choice. Miss the afternoon bus home and a walk to Manuka would follow.
Getting to School: We’d hitherto bussed, ridden bikes or walked to St Pat’s, just a mile to the north of Civic. Now, following the collection run for northern students, we had a longer trip over the low river crossing, to the school. But also had time to finish off failed or un-finished homework. Some kids were smarter and even knew this KE/PE science stuff. Living hard-up against the CSIRO I had the good fortune of a fellow student, being the son of a CSIRO scientist. At that stage, avoiding a dusting with the strap motivated. My corrected ignorance inched forward and unbeknown to me, taking early steps in science learning and life occupation. I also remember Br’s Slattery and Moylan for this tentative launch. Finding a subject book that touched both your level and thought process was a hit and miss process. The world wide web and Google were still a long way off. A world of letters, telephones, teleprinters, books with some travel. Marcel Bich had only recently freed us from the tyranny of the ink-well with his ball-point-pen. Access to information was certainly more difficult.
Brother T E Hall: I must go to our first-year classroom and our Brother teacher. What a task was laid before him, and I am grateful that he took it up. We were
an easily distracted mob and at regular intervals the rattle of a multi-wheeler making its way towards Cooma would break through, gear-crunching around the circuit, then towards the Monaro Highway, heavily laden with mega-kit for the Snowy Mountain’s build. Boy! Did it look interesting! Brother Hall would wrestle our attention back to the chalkboard, and the world would keep spinning. October that first year arrived and Brother made some key entries on the blackboard, in the form of diary entries. The Examinations Timetable: English - Nov 1- 9:00 to 11:30;
French – Nov 2; etc. No sooner had brother placed the chalk back on the rest-board then, up shot a hand. Max: “Won’t be here Brother”. Then another joined. Both boys from up Cooma way. “You’ve got to be here for the exams, Max. That’s a necessary”, said brother. Max: “Gotta t-take dem cows to summer-agistment, bro!”. Many years later, following an office re-location to ‘new-Tuggeranong’, a State Office pharmacist rang me and asked: “Where are you now Morrie?” “Well John,” I answered, with a smile, “I’m at summer agistment”.
The photo is of the C Grade final in 1956. The team in St Edmund’s footy tops depicts Bill Powell and myself engaged in the C Grade final against Canberra Boys Grammar. In the background is Mount Ainslie and to the immediate right of the-hook of Bill’s stick are two Christian Brothers and another is behind the camera.
MARTIN BRADY
Class
of 1987
With a brand-new school bag, uniform and a set of shiny Clarks, I walked into St Edmund’s as a new boy at the beginning of 1984. Entering such a big institution as a new boy is quite terrifying and even more so for me because I was coming in as a Year 9 student. Thankfully there were a couple other new boys, and we congregated together in that first hour in some sort of mutual protection pact. With great relief kids interacted with us straight away and I made friends on that day that are close to me all these decades later. From that first day I could see these kids around me had close bonds, a sense of community and a wonderful egalitarianism.
The school was different to what I had experienced before. Most obviously there were only boys. The school was huge yet still crowded. It had a canteen like I had never experienced. Under the watchful supervision of Brother Owens, a crowd surged to the counter to purchase sausage rolls embedded in large white buns. This was well before the Keto diet era and wheat grass shots. In the courtyard there were large trampolines. The trampolines departed in my time at St Edmund’s but must have been listed on hundreds of patient files at the orthopaedic ward. It was fantastic. Sport was intrinsic in the system then as it is now. I played lots of sport and enjoyed every minute of it. I was overlooked by the Wallabies and missed selection for the Australian test cricket team, apparently that year they were looking for form and talent, but the school gave me a love for team sports and the necessary life skills that are learnt being part of a team.
Just as it is today there were some wonderful characters amongst the teaching staff. It was not until later in life that I have fully appreciated the dedication, professionalism and sacrifices those teachers made for me. What they gave to me I could never pay back but I am eternally grateful. My own boy is at St Edmund’s now. I am often reminding him of the great gift of learning and opportunity that these wonderful teachers provide for him.
In 1987 I finished school and my time at St Edmund’s came to end. I was lost for direction and no idea what I wanted to do for a living. Fortunately, the school had put some effort and thought into this, and I stumbled into university in 1988. Despite being possibly the worst economist, I graduated with no understanding or love for that career path. I worked in hospitality for a while before some oversight facilitated my entry into the public service. It turns out administration was not my forte either, but I did find my way into a position in which I interacted with business people in the events industry and was much better at that.
In 1997 I started a small business with my father who was involved with toy fireworks when they used to sell them direct to the public here in Canberra. I saw
MR Zavone & Edward
an opportunity to branch out into public events and commercial fireworks shows. With a whole lot of enthusiasm and no experience, that is what we did in a very humble way. If I had any strengths in this industry, it might be those that I developed as a schoolboy. I was able to build trustworthy and respectful relationships with all types of people and worked hard to warrant their trust. We have established ourselves as the number one wholesaler and distributor of commercial fireworks in Australia working out a factory near Gundaroo. As firework show designers and event managers the company has worked around Australia, Asia and Europe. In Canberra, we are involved with the Summernats, the Royal Canberra Show, New Year’s Eve on the lake and some other great events including the Gunning Fireworks Festival. I have had the opportunity to tour with lots of artists including ACDC, The Rolling Stones, KISS, Katy Perry, P!nk, Guns and Roses and Nickelback. In recent years I have branched out beyond this core business and also train people in commercial fireworks through our Fireworks school – a Registered Training Organisation.
It is with both nostalgia and a sense of pride that I come back to St Edmund’s at various times in my life. When I married my wife Jackie in 1996, who I actually met at an Eddies dance, I didn’t really get involved in too much of the organisation, except for wanting us to be
married in the St Edmund’s Chapel – which we were. We have three great kids, two girls and a boy, with my son currently at St Edmund’s in Year 10. The decision to send him to Eddies was for him, as it was for me, a fantastic opportunity. I am proud to see him play in the white and blue and to see what he is getting up to in the school. I can see in him the values I learnt at the school. At such a formative time in his life I know he is given all the grounding and support from the school to be the best he can be. These values will continue to be his strength throughout his life and as a family we appreciate the opportunity and privilege that my son and I have enjoyed.
BLUE AND WHITE BALL
MICHAEL COONEY
Class of 1978
Earlier this year I was having coffee in Parliament House and a friend I’ve known for many years asked me about the design on the cuff links I was wearing.
Oh! I said. That’s the pious pelican. It’s the crest of my old school, up the road. The pelican is using her beak to wound herself and feeding her children with her blood.
There was a pause in the conversation.
It’s about self-sacrifice, I said. Another pause.
This explains a lot, my friend eventually replied.
I really like being an Eddies old boy and I think even my most secular and unchurched friends like having an Eddies old boy around sometimes. We have our uses. And even though I was really quite academic, I’m sure I’m not the only one who enjoys being an old boy a bit more than I enjoyed actually being at school.
But while I’ve been an old boy now much longer than I was ever a school boy, I have no doubt that my time at Eddies in the 1980s remains incredibly formative for me – and not just in the jokes and songs I know or the way I carry myself around people from actual posh schools. My time at Eddies is still the platform my faith
and family stand on and a real point of origin for purpose in my professional life.
Edmund Rice and his Christian Brothers were at the heart of that for me. His story and their achievement found me when I was a ten year old and never left. The Brothers I knew were fascinating. I met some grumps, of course, but my overwhelming impression then and now was of a culture that was masculine, Marian, devout, unpretentious, and unquestionably committed to the underdog at all times. That was my experience in Canberra at that time.
I know there were other experiences.
So the Christian Brothers’ legacy in my life through our school is more than a mythos that I enjoy and draw inspiration from; it’s also a real-life example of the strong and slow boring of hard boards that is required for institution building for social change, and a real-
life education in the ironies and tragedies of the fallen human condition. And I’m sure it’s Blessed Edmund Rice’s prayers for me and for all of us.
Eddies wasn’t a house of religious formation of course, it was a school, and by the 1980’s most of the teachers were lay people and the secular curriculum rapidly developing. I first read Hemingway, saw a Bunsen burner, used an orienteering compass, played a flute and did those things in trigonometry – were they quadratic equations? – in our school. We were promised a holistic education and we most certainly got one.
And if Eddies was partly a religious institution, and partly a high school – then memorably and always, Eddies was partly just a bunch of blokes. I remember when I heard a visiting teacher say “they never really do what you tell them, but they’re friendly and they’ve been taught to look you in the eye”. I remember when the front row of the First XV were the chorus in Gilbert
and Sullivan’s Iolanthe. And I so vividly remember the Irish ambassador’s son telling Mr Hall in Year 9 History that the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere was no better or worse than the British Empire and then what in the British Empire they used to call “a fearful row”. Over the years I have more than once been tapped on the shoulder in pubs and had a bloke say “aren’t you Dog’s brother” (it’s a nickname; don’t ask). And just before that weird coffee conversation about our Pie Pellicane I’d been catching up with Stuart Lachlan downstairs in the basement of Parliament House.
I’ve been very lucky, and I think we were very lucky, most of us surely, that we were Eddies boys, and we got to be Eddies old boys. I was really blessed to be able to come home to Canberra for a few days around our 70th anniversary this year. I hope I’ll be there again soon.
MATT HARROW
Class of 2018
The one and only St Edmund’s College Canberra, is exactly that, one of a kind. It’s hard to explain to an outsider what it was like being an Eddies boy. At the end of the day, it was school, it was not always sunshine and rainbows, but I can honestly say, when I look back at my time at Eddies, I can only ever think of fun times full of laughter, filled with amazing people. I started at St Edmund’s in 2013 as a Year 7 student, graduating Year 12 as part of the 2018 cohort. During that time, I created some of my fondest memories and met many incredible people along the way, creating life-long friendships.
I was definitely not the student in my cohort with the big brain, collecting all of the academic awards, and you couldn’t pay me enough to pick up a Gilbert and run it straight at one of the rugby boys. Despite this, I believe I navigated my way through high school just fine and have managed to achieve many accomplishments during and after my time at Eddies. I have a lot of people who made my time at Eddies so enjoyable, I could go on about my favourite teachers for hours, and the great relationships I built with many of them. I’m sure I could also go on just as long about the teachers
who weren’t as fond of me ha ha. Although I do owe Mr Fox and Mr Richardson many thanks for making my transition from primary school to high school so easy and enjoyable. I couldn’t give a favourite memory of my time at Eddies, there are too many to choose from. I have my school mates and cohort to thank for that, a group of fine young gentlemen that made rocking up to school every day a privilege and not a chore. I do miss my days at Eddies, I enjoyed my time there so much that after school each day when we were old enough to drive, the boys and I would hang around late, gasbagging and just enjoying each other’s company.
Since leaving Eddies, I have had a very busy and rewarding five and a half years. I studied at the University of Canberra and completed a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science, although now I am working full time as a glazier when I am home. I spend a lot of time on the road, travelling the world playing softball. I’ve played softball my whole life, and being at Eddies allowed me to pursue this sporting career while still studying. In 2018, my final year at St Edmund’s, I played in my first World Cup for the Under 19s Australian team in Canada. I had to take some time away from school for this, which both the school and all my teachers were very accommodating. We won gold that year. Since then, I have had the pleasure of representing the country at more World Cups and qualifying tournaments.
In late 2022, I lived out a lifelong dream of playing for the Aussie Steelers, the Open Men’s Australian Softball team. I became the 130th capped player for the Aussie Steelers, competing at the 2022 World Cup in Auckland, New Zealand. We became World Champions at this tournament, taking home gold for just the second time ever for Australia at the Open Men’s level. In April of 2023, I had the privilege of Captaining the Under 23s Australian team at the inaugural Under 23s World Cup in Parana, Argentina. We became the first ever Under 23s Men’s Softball World Champions taking home the gold. In November 2023, I travelled to Pago Pago, American Samoa for the Oceania Qualifiers in which we won. That qualifier took us to Hermosillo, Mexico in June of this year for the Group Stage of the World Cup, in which we clinched a ticket to the World Cup finals which will take place mid-next year back in Prince Albert Canada, where I played my first World Cup.
I have also been fortunate enough to play the past two seasons in the North American ISC circuit for a team called the Circle Tap Dukes, based out of Wisconsin, USA. This has allowed me to spend the entire Summer in the USA and Canada, playing with and against the best ball players in the world. The best part of it all, it’s allowed me to miss the cold Canberra Winter for the past two years.
I feel very blessed and fortunate to have had all of these opportunities and achievements at such a young age. I have no doubt that my time spent at Eddies, moulding me into the man I have become, has helped pave a way for my journey since leaving school. I learnt many valuable skills and lessons at school and was constantly surrounded by supportive and inspiring people. I will forever be grateful that I am an Eddies boy and will never forget the great times and great people I met along the way.
Edmund’s to the Fore.
HERITAGE ROUND
NUNZIANTE (NUNZ) LOSANNO
Class of 1987
I was pleasantly surprised when I received an invitation from Mr Zavone to share my school experience and write an article for The Pelican. As a student of the graduating class of 1987, it has been some time since I have had cause to take direction from the School Principal, in my case from Brother Wallace when I may have misbehaved!
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the life of the school and I have been fortunate to have been a member of the school community for 43 years. I commenced at the school in 1981 and can honestly say that since graduation in 1987 my sense of belonging, within the school community, has never left me.
After completing further study at the ANU in commerce and finance, I was determined to see the world and set out on a boy’s adventure across the African continent for a year. After further time spent in Europe I returned to Australia and went about building a career in corporate banking and finance. I was also fortunate to meet the love of my life and start my own family, of whom I am immensely proud.
During school I was fortunate to find myself in a diverse year group filled with boys with character, potential and a sense of fun and adventure. I know this because our year group is marked by nationally and internationally acclaimed sports stars, journalists, broadcasters, engineers, Harvard educated lawyers, pilots and even Hollywood animators. More importantly, our year was for the most part marked by a sense of collegiately, school pride and team.
My journey at Eddies started in 1981 when I was enrolled in Year 6. From a non-English speaking background, the son of migrant parents, I still remember my first day, somewhat overwhelmed by the size of the school, the boys and the feeling of loneliness not knowing anyone else. But that all changed and I can say that
there are friends I have today 40+ years later that I met for the first time that very year. My first year had its challenges as did other years, but with time and effort, I found my second family.
I am very grateful for the opportunities the school gave me to receive a great education, including leadership skills (O’Brien House Captain 1987), life skills and a sense of belonging. I remember taking up most opportunities the school had to offer, something I encourage the boys today to do. I have fond memories of school camps, team training and competitions for cross country, basketball, soccer and rugby and various classroom antics.
Looking back, my school life experiences and challenges were an important playground for learning skills that continue to serve me well in adult life. Some call this type of education ‘street smarts’ - the ability to get on with a wide range of people from different backgrounds, work as a team, remain strong in the face of adversity, all with a sense of empathy and kindness. These skills are captured in the hearts and minds (not the ATAR, AST or NAPLAN results) and I am forever thankful to the school, the teachers and my peers for nurturing these skills in us students.
When reflecting on my time at Eddies, it is the friendships that I made that endure to this day, the spirit and faith I developed that anchors me still, and the commitment to treating everyone equally and justly, that have served me far better than the final ATAR I received. The teachers are of course the backbone of a great school and I want to take this opportunity to advocate for the wonderful teachers who support and care for our sons in an environment that encourages and promotes success – being the best you can be.
Since my son commenced at Eddies in 2022 it has been wonderful to reconnect with the school – including to run into a former peer and alumnus of the class of 1987 - Mr Fred Zarb. Attending the school community events is a great way to reconnect. I particularly enjoy attending the Heritage Round held in July/August of each year, annual old boys golf days and College performances. To walk the halls of the school again brings back great memories – although the school has been significantly upgraded since I attended.
I’m looking forward to my son’s graduation in 2027 which will also be the 40th year anniversary of my graduating class – a double celebration!!
It has been a privilege to write this piece. I hope I have done a little bit of justice to an institution that has given me so much for which I am forever grateful.
Nunz’s son Josh with Mr Fred Zarb
TOBY MCNAMARA
Class of 1987
I recently had pause to reflect a little on my life journey. I was umpiring a game of cricket on a perfect Canberra Friday evening. It was late Summer/early Autumn and it was warm, calm and clear. What added to the nostalgia, from my perspective, was that my 9 year old daughter was playing in that game for Canberra Grammar against the SEC U11 Whites on Lonergan Oval - at Eddies. What struck me was how brilliant the Eddies boys were with my daughter and her peers - half her team were girls. My daughter was complimented on her bowling by two different batters which gave her a huge boost. There were many other examples of fine sportsmanship on display that afternoon, the banter was positive and friendly, all of which gave me great pride to be an Eddies old boy.
The symmetry of my Eddies journey starting as a 9 year old also was not lost on me. That year was 1978 and I have the privilege/infamy of finishing at Eddies in 1987 after completing one extra year compared to most. That extra year was Year 13 which I decided to take after my original Year 11 and 12 was punctuated by a perhaps a little too much time playing cards with my mates. After some quite frank discussions, something about pulling my finger out, Br Wallace very kindly allowed me to re-sit Year 12 after I turned up unannounced at the commencement of 1987.
That decision paid off for me. I achieved good enough marks to study at uni. So my fellow Year 13 veteran, Andy Bennett and I made our way to Adelaide, Andy studying Dentistry and I, Mechanical Engineering. I soon realised that I was not really cut out for Engineering, hard and definitely too many exams. Around that time my mum had spied an advertisement in the newspaper asking for applications to a Qantas Airways Ltd Pilot Cadetship. I had, apparently, always been interested in flight and in fact did my work experience at the old Canberra airport, which was quite a different beast to the fine example we see today.
Andy and I applied. I was very lucky and was selected. Andy missed out on the cadetship but, undeterred, applied and was selected to be a pilot with the RAAF.
The cadetship has led to a fantastic career. Gulf War 1 led to no flying positions being available in Qantas on completion of the cadetship in 1991. I was again very fortunate and was selected as an Air Safety Investigator in the then Bureau of Air Safety Investigation
(BASI), a Federal body that investigated air accidents and incidents. I was involved in investigating a number of serious aircraft accidents and the role was a real eye opener that set me up for later aviation life.
I started with Qantas in 1994 and have worked on many different aircraft types, including the Boeing 767, 747 and 737 in both domestic and long haul operations. I attained my Command, or Captain position in 2008 and currently work on the Airbus A330 flying mainly long haul to the US and Asia. In the next year or so I will move to the A380, a 572,000 kg behemoth, which will probably see me out to the end of my Qantas career. The 380 is a long way from the single engine prop aircraft I learnt to fly on all those years ago. I am fortunate to have over 15,000 flying hours in the 30 years I have spent in the Qantas group.
My safety background also led to me spending 10 years in Qantas Safety. In that role, amongst other things, I helped start up a group airline in Vietnam where I lived for three years, which was a truly amazing experience.
So in short I have had some immensely rewarding experiences, most of which revolve around the decision to re-sit Year 12 at SEC, oh and luck, quite a lot of luck.
Which brings me back to my journey and the role Eddies played. I returned to Canberra after the cadetship but left again when I joined the Qantas. I was to return to Canberra some 18 years later when we had our second child and the prospect of raising children in the inner west of Sydney became too daunting. We have three children now and they attend Canberra Grammar School. Their mother is Norwegian and private schools are a complete mystery to Norwegians, let alone single sex, private schools. We compromised and CGS it was. However, that balmy afternoon on Lonergan Oval reminded me of why I enjoyed my time at Eddies and how it shaped me.
There was the education side of things of course, the colourful characters (hats off to Messers Hill, Maloney
and O’Shea et al) but as I watched those young men interact and laugh and boost my 9 year daughter I realised that it is the friendships that were made and endure to this day that made the school so special. From the early days with Simon Eccles, Anthony Scanlon, Ed Chang and Tom Miller, to backyard cricket with Craig McCann. First XI Cricket days Tim Broue, Nipper Mellor, Craig Cook and Anthony Ball. Cards with Michael Reid, Pat Chivers and Justin Devenish (thanks fellas). Then finally my fellow Year 13 attendee and still best mate Andy Bennett - these are the bonds that you cannot buy or replace and that I cherish the most.
I am very much looking forward to our next reunion (I see myself as Year of 86 spiritually). I have enjoyed all of our reunions immensely and I would encourage all who ponder about attending such events to seriously consider doing so. It is somewhat mind blowing how fast these come around and I don’t take for granted the stage of life we are at now.
So thanks, St Edmund’s - teachers, parents and students. Long may you continue to shape boys like those of the 23/24 U11 Friday Whites.
The Partnership Program works to improve student engagement, improve academic outcomes for students, enhance the social wellbeing of students and broaden vocational options and skills
We thank the following organisations for being in partnership and collaboration with us, offering our students a wide range of opportunities and skills.
The College is partnering with the University of Canberra through the new St Edmund’s College Sports Academy This provides an opportunity for our students to consider a sportsfocused pathway that offers direct, non-ATAR entry to a number of undergraduate courses at the University of Canberra. This means that a tertiary pathway is now open to students who may not have necessarily considered a tertiary education, or who were wanting a more tailored, individual approach to the tertiary pathway
St Edmund’s College is partnering with the Canberra Raiders through our Sports Science program. The Raiders partnership will provide a clear connection between St Edmund’s College and the Canberra Raiders for students playing Rugby League, maintaining and engaging these students at a high level both academically and physically
Regular on-field training will be developed by College staff and the Canberra Raiders The partnership will allow contracted Canberra Raiders juniors to have a pathway to an independent Catholic education with a dedicated pastoral care system
The College is in partnership with the Hyatt Hotel in Canberra This partnership will allow our Hospitality students to immerse themselves in all aspects of the Hospitality industry, engage in real work opportunities and work alongside experts in the Hospitality field to develop their skills and competencies, be mentored and coached and build their professional network This is a wonderful initiative for our students, providing a unique opportunity for them to broaden their skills and options
St Edmund’s College is proud to formalise a partnership with Accelerate Physiotherapy Accelerate Physiotherapy will work extensively with our Co-Curricular and senior Talented Sports Programs to provide elite level athlete screening, assist in the injury and rehabilitation of student athletes and to help develop athlete knowledge of content studied in senior courses St Edmund’s College is excited to strengthen this partnership and work towards student athlete development
St Edmund's College is delighted to announce its partnership with Aventious, a leading provider of business and IT transformation services to the federal government Through this collaboration, our students will benefit from a series of engaging workshops and experiences covering information technology, entrepreneurship, and career preparation Aventious brings a wealth of experience and a track record of delivering exceptional results to their clients. This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to preparing students for the dynamic challenges of the modern workforce
JACKSON STUART
Class of 2017
During my first few weeks at St. Edmunds, I was answering a question from my Dad about what the Eddies boys are like; I told him, “They’re much nicer than the boys in Sydney, everyone shakes your hand here.” I instantly felt welcomed into the community when I joined the school towards the end of Year 8 in 2013. It was an obvious choice for my family to send me and my brother, Jed, to the school when we moved to Canberra as we had cousins and family friends there. During my first couple of days, Brad Winchester showed me around and introduced me to lots of the boys. One of the best parts of being an Eddies boy is the great mates you make; I’ve got a strong group of mates from my cohort. I am also close with a lot of blokes from other cohorts, whether that be from my time at the school, getting to know them through my brother, or meeting them through rugby union at Queanbeyan Whites. Eddies boys are the best blokes you’ll ever meet.
The school camps, athletics and swimming carnivals, excursions and walk-a-thons were some of my more enjoyable memories. However, it has been some of the teachers and staff that have had the most significant impact on me and the memories I have from school. The relationships the teachers were able to establish with me throughout my time are something I look back on and really appreciate. Mr Langtry was someone I had a lot of respect for; he was tough but fair, and he was a big influence on teaching me discipline and being a respectable young man. Ms Gair was my Head
of House for Treacy and my English teacher in Years 11 and 12. She was great at keeping me accountable and being straight up with me when I was swaying off track. It was tough at the time, but I appreciated it once I had finished school. Mr MacArthur and Mr Fox, my coach and trainer in my two years of First XV, taught me to respect the Eddies crest and play for the blokes who went before you. Foxy was always great for a joke and took the edge off some tense moments before a game, but he also knew how to nearly break you physically and mentally during preseason training. Tracey Brown was my First XV manager and was always looking out for me around school. One of my good mates through school, Vinny de Masson, would pull me out of class for a job that Mrs Brown had asked him to do
John I Dent Cup Grand Final
JACKSON STUART
Class of 2017
(probably by himself), and we would end up staying in her office having a chat for a bit longer than we should have during classes. Mrs Brown was always up for a chat, and she taught me a lot about having patience and showing care for people. A lot of the things I have learned from these teachers are traits I have plans on implementing in my classroom when I am a teacher.
Before I came to the school, my Pop (Les Stuart) was nearing the end of his time having grandchildren at St Edmunds. Les attended the rugby games for all my cousins (Matt and Tom Mitchell) throughout their time here, years after attending the games that Dad and Uncle Jamie played for Eddie’s too. The year Tom played First XV, they had a farewell for Les at the end of the season to commend him for attending every one of the boys’ games. At the end of this season, Jed and I joined the school and were keen on giving rugby a crack, which meant Pop would continue his support for the school. This gave me great pride wearing the Eddies jersey, knowing that Pop was always on the sideline watching, thinking of a few pointers to give me and letting me know I am better at rugby league once the game ended. He now comes out to my games at Queanbeyan Whites and still tells me the same thing.
I was very fortunate to go on the 2016 SANIX Rugby Tour to Japan. On this trip, we explored Tokyo and toured Nagasaki before heading to Fukuoka. We played six tough games against various schools from different countries at a nice complex in Fukuoka. This trip brought our playing group very close together and led to us having a successful season in the First XV Canberra competition. We beat an undefeated Daramalan team full of future professional players, and it’s one game I will never forget.
In 2019, I was given a chance to train and trial with the Under-20 Canberra Raiders squad. After a tough preseason I had worked my way into the team in Round 2 and managed to hold a spot in the side playing fullback and winger. It was an unreal experience playing alongside and against some very talented players who have gone onto NRL careers. I was lucky enough to have an old teacher, Justin Giteau, as an assistant coach throughout the season. We had a great season, making it to the grand final, but unfortunately, we lost by two points to the Rabbitohs.
The Raiders helped me get a job at Torrens Primary School as a learning support assistant, where I have worked for six years. This job has been great for me as I have spent time with students who have had
2019, Canberra Raiders U20s
some tough times in their lives, and it has helped me appreciate the little things a lot more. I had no plans to stick with this job for as long as I have, but I have met some great teachers who encouraged me to go to university and become a teacher. The thought of university was very daunting at first, and I had a lot of self-doubt as I was not the most academic student during my schooling. I sat on the thought of becoming a teacher for a few months. Eventually, I worked up the courage to apply for a Bachelor of Primary Education
at the University of Canberra. I am now approaching my last year of the four-year degree and am set to finish at the end of 2025. I have found university very challenging but rewarding. I was lucky enough to spend three lessons teaching physical education to one of the Year 6 classes last year. It was great to be back on the school grounds, and maybe one day, I’ll be applying for a teaching role at St Edmunds. My job has given me a much stronger appreciation for how good some of the Eddies’ teachers were to me during my schooling.
Jackson with Dad Ricky and Pop Jackson_s Pop and cousin Tom
AROUND THE COLLEGE
AROUND THE COLLEGE
St Edmund’s College BUILDING FUND
The St Edmund’s College Building Fund enables the community to make a direct contribution to the refurbishment, maintenance and development of infrastructure at the College.
Like many independent schools, St Edmund’s depends on the support of the entire community - school fees and government grants alone do not support new capital projects, major maintenance and restoration of existing buildings, or the on-going support and enhancement of the College’s scholarship programmes.
We would like to provide our students across the College with learning spaces which:
• Can be adapted to accommodate learning modes and technology
• Create opportunities for students to learn independently and in groups
• Support collaborative learning and teaching for students and teachers
• Provide optimum learning conditions that are aesthetically appropriate
How to Contribute
1. Visit our College website at sec.act.edu.au
2. Find ‘Links’ at the top or bottom of the page.
3. Click on ‘Online Payment’ which should take you to our College Payment Portal.
4. In the ‘Event’ selection menu, click ‘Voluntary Building Fund’
“All gifts support our future, and whether large or small, gifts are greatly appreciated and assist the College’s vision to develop boys into young men of strong character.”
St Edmund’s College
A Catholic School in the Edmund Rice Tradition. Educating boys Years 4 to 12 since 1954.
