December 2014 Issue 26

Bronzed Aussies Melissa Tapper and MOCA Bronzed Aussie - Tessa Lavey

Welcome all to another edition of the Monivae will continue to arrange reunions and few years consider a Facebook group. It will When the Dolphin last caught up with second off when your were on the court, you hopefully we can get another championship Dolphin with a special welcome to provide administration for MOCA, but your guarantee you a successful reunion with a Tessa Lavey in Issue 21 (June 2012) had to be focussed the whole time.” under the belt.” help and input then gives you the opportunity good attendance. our newest Old Collegians receiving to have greater input into your reunions. she was a budding star at the AIS Lavey also found the competition at the top Whilst her focus is on the WNBL it is not hard the Dolphin for the first time. We wish The Class of 1985 are putting the challenge in Canberra who was just beginning of the world to be a much more ‘intellectual’. to see Rio looming on the horizon now that the you all the greatest success in your The easiest way to gather a class group out. Not only are we expecting to have her teaching degree. She admits “At that level you are learning the whole time, World Championships has finished. “My focus together is Facebook. Five years ago I set the largest attendance of any previous 30 learning on the run as the game unfolds, there now is the WNBL but after the season we move chosen path post secondary school. up a group for my year level, the class of year reunion, we are aiming for the largest her university hasn’t progressed as is much more thinking involved. I had to look to onto the Oceania series against New Zealand, With the annual influx of new members, the 1985 and there are now 95 members. As we attendance of any previous class group. If much as her ; which has my role models in the team, and which we need to win to qualify for Rio.” look toward to our 30 year reunion in 2015, your reunion is approaching, there is no time and see how they prepare before number of Old Collegians continues to grow taken her to the top of the world as “I am excited for what is to come for the next and after sixty years since Monivae College’s networking by members has seen the word to waste. Gather your classmates and spread a member of the 2014 Australian the game and adjust during the game and just spread to those classmates who are not users the word because the Class of 1985 intend to try to take in as much in as I could.” two years in the lead up to the Olympics in beginnings, there are now over 8,000+ Opals who represented at Rio, I will be doing everything I can, with the members with 61 year levels represented of social media. I estimate that as a result of set the bar high. the group’s success, we have informed close the World Championships in Turkey Returning home there was little time off as support of my family to give myself the best Director of Development at Monivae, Simon to 130 former classmates of our reunion, If you are interested in been involved in July, bringing home the Bronze Lavey moved into the new WNBL season with chance to be an Olympian, there is a lot of with your class group, please contact Bendigo where she continues to learn from hard work to do and a little bit of luck as well. McKinley has been overseeing the Old months before official invitations are sent. By Medal. Collegians admirably but as we look to the that time, we will have contacted 90% of the Simon on (03) 5551 1251 or via arguably Australia’s best ever in So we’ll see how I go.” [email protected] . future it is clear that will become increasingly Class of 1985. Also, those who will travel from The youngest member of the 12-player squad, From Monivae to Turkey and hopefully Rio, the difficult. overseas have had sufficient notice and are 2015 reunion dates can be found on page 14. Lavey, at just 21, made the team over many “Playing with someone like Kristi Harrower, whole Monivae community is behind Tessa now making their travel arrangements. more experienced players. Being one of six With that in mind, I am calling for each of who I regard as the best point guard ever and we wish her every success. Merron Riddiford new faces in the team, controversy marred in Australia, it is great as I ask her lots of you to take on the ownership of your class It takes very little work to administer a Class of ‘85 Lavey’s selection, with many in the basketball groups, Monivae has been busy contacting questions and to be able to watch her play I Facebook group. After the initial set up, as MOCA Chair community questioning Coach Brendan Below: Tessa with Coach and Old Collegians to act as Class Champions as the group grows it basically runs itself. Not think she has a big influence on my game.” Joyce’s choice to take the untried guard over teammate . help is needed to with contacting old only that, it is a great place for you to share more experienced players, prompting Joyce National Coach Brendan Joyce is also keeping classmates and keeping everyone in the loop stories and photos from your school days. So to defend his selection. an eye on Lavey during her time at Bendigo, around reunion time. if you have a reunion coming up in the next keeping in contact with the guard as Bendigo “Her quickness and explosiveness is superior looks to win its third title in a row. to all other point guards in the country” Joyce told Sydney Morning Herald in September. “He is always ringing me up and giving advice “That’s a big statement, I know, but we’ve had on what he wants me to do like ‘push the ball’ Principal plenty of camps and plenty of tour games and ‘get up on the player’, he is really good to see it. We need someone with that sort of and said that he is always behind me and that Monivae College continues to be at the Two long serving staff were fare-welled at quickness in our team, in that position. She is great as I want to cement my spot in the brings a point of difference to the other girls. Opals so I need to take his advice on-board.” forefront of educational excellence in the the end of the school year. Mrs Maree Bell, The second point is we have to blood a young Western District. The Chevalier Centre, our Head Librarian, served for over 30 years Lavey is looking to take on a bigger role point guard of our existing point guards, and which has a focus on student wellbeing, will and has been much loved and appreciated with Bendigo this season and enjoys the she’s the best young guard in the country.” support the Positive Psychology program that by generations of Monivae students and staff expectation of winning that comes with having is being implemented by the school. Work on for her kind and gentle manner. Mrs Leonie This ringing endorsement was proven true, won the last two titles. “The challenge of the the Centre began in June and the first stage is Roder, the Director of Students, had served in with her play at the World Championships other teams coming after us and trying to due for completion in February, 2015. While a number of leadership roles in her 17 years at announcing her as the young face of Australian beat us is great, we do go 12 players deep the building itself is most impressive and has Monivae and has been a passionate teacher Basketball. Back home playing for Bendigo as a team and we don’t have any lapse when helped rejuvenate the back part of the school and loyal supporter of Monivae College. Spirit in the WNBL, Tessa is not resting on her players come on from the bench. I am just perhaps more important is the use to which achievements, and is looking to build towards hoping as I get on the floor that I can play well Below: The team receives their Bronze medals. Father Mark McGuinness MSC finishes these facilities will be put to enhance the the Rio Olympics in two years’ time. for the coaches and play well for the team and positive education of our students, staff, and after six years where he has been incredibly the wider community. dedicated to the College, our boarders In her own words Tessa was surprised to particularly and the local Catholic parish make the team. “The selection to the team was In 2015 we will commence with the first group community. Father Mark moves to the parish a massive surprise for me and for everyone of Year 7 students participating in our Learning of Katherine in the Northern Territory and we else as well. We had a great bunch of coaches Enrichment and Acceleration Program wish him well in his future ministry there. We and ladies who went over (to Turkey), it was (LEAP) where one class of selected students welcome Fr Peter Hendriks MSC to take over a great experience, it is pretty crazy to think will be involved in extension and accelerated the role of Co-Director of Faith and Mission at about now.” learning in their core subjects. It is hoped that Monivae next year. the challenges in this program will engage and Lavey is no stranger to the Green and Gold, extend students’ capabilities as they progress May this Christmas season be one of peace having represented Australia as a junior through the school. and joy for all ‘Dolphin’ readers. and also at the World University Games, but Mark McGinnity playing for the Opals was going to be a big In the final week of school our Year 9 and step-up. 10 Girls’ Cricket team convincingly won the Principal State Super 8 final on the hallowed turf of the Right top: The State Champion Super 8 “For me it was a massive jump as I hadn’t Cricket Ground. The team played Cricket Team. played much WNBL leading up the worlds, I with much flair and great character to achieve knew I had to lift my game. The major difference this impressive result. Ably coached by Mr Right bottom: Farewell Mrs Bell. In our between juniors and seniors is that the whole Leo McMahon and Mr Shaun Hayes the team next issue we profile Mrs Bell and as she game could come down to one possession, prepared well and were suitably rewarded for remembers 30 years at Monivae. or one defensive stop, so you couldn’t take a their efforts.

2MonivaeMonivae College College thethe Dolphin 13 Bronzed Aussie - Melissa Tapper George Xendis - From Whilst not the first Tapper to appear “The selection for the London Olympics Table “I have a terrible memory for daily school life in the Dolphin, with brother Ashley Tennis team happens over one weekend, with but I do remember setting a pan on fire in the top six ranked players qualifying to play, Home Economics so I was clearly strong in appearing in Issue 23 (June 2013, and the final two spots or wildcards being that subject, I was a good sewer too, making Minyip to Athens page 13) and laying claim to that granted entry through a wildcard tournament.” pillow cases in textiles, I would consider myself title, Melissa Tapper or Milly, has an all-rounder when it came to school.” In Issue 25 of the Dolphin we caught I was going to go to a boarding school for “Only three players eventually get to go to the up with Matt Christie (‘81) who met my last year of High School and the school taken her talents to new heights Olympics, so these eight players then play off Tapper now has set her sights on competing in (Monivae) was strongly suggested from a representing Australia in Table in a round robin tournament. I wasn’t in the top both the Olympics and the Paralympics in Rio George Xenakis (‘84) when on holiday friend who attended Monivae, Nick McIntyre Tennis at the London Paralympic six based on the rankings and won through in 2016, and says her results this year show it in Greece. We often hear stories of from the Class of ‘83. We lived in Minyip and Games in 2012 followed by a the pre-event qualifying to earn one of the can be done. Old Collegians running into each we played cricket together in the local team. wildcard selections.” He had told me he preferred Monivae over the “I think they complement one another, and the other across the world. Now we hear Bronze Medal in the 2014 Glasgow other schools. . If this wasn’t Milly had some wins against some higher more international exposure I get is only going from George on what has transpired to help me,” she said. enough she can also lay claim to ranked opponents in the event and her fate Commonwealth Games, there was none in since his time at Monivae. I was only there for one year, 1984 but the was decided on a count-back. memories were many because of the fact that I Milly’s Class for , so it was all or When asked about the strong support she capturing Australia’s first ever World It was indeed a trip down memory lane when was boarding. I can only say that it really taught nothing in the lead-up to Scotland. receives from her family Milly said that saying Championship Singles Medal after “The count-back worked against me, with Matt came into the store, by coincidence. I me a lot about discipline and methodology!! I she has strong support from her family would positions three through five being decided by “I knew in the lead-up to Scotland I would have didn’t know him from Monivae or in Australia for only wished that I had gone earlier to Monivae. capturing Bronze at the ITTF Para be understatement. count-back. I finished fifth.” to do quite a bit of international competition to that matter, our roads passed, half way around Table Tennis World Championships As soon as I finished I wanted to take a trip to make the team, so I spent about 4-5 months “They are pretty impressive when it comes to the world!! held in Beijing recently. This wasn’t the end of her Olympic campaign Europe and with the intention of coming back overseas. It was probably one of the toughest providing support, I couldn’t do this without for 2012, as she was selected for the London Even though Matt’s time was limited due to him to Australia. In July of ‘85 I left and eventually things I have put myself through. I only came them.” At 24, this Old Collegian from the Class of Paralympic team. being on vacations, we managed to have a liked Greece (having a Greek background) 2007 is no stranger to the green and gold home just before Christmas (2013) in time “speedy” conversation regarding Monivae due Milly has Erb’s Palsy, which affects the nerves With less than two years to Rio, we wish her so much, I decided to stay and continue my having represented Australia for the first time for the qualifiers and that obviously paid to the fact that we were introduced as “fellow” in her right arm. Milly competes as an SF10 every reward for her hard work. accounting studies there. I have been living as a 14 year old on the World Junior Circuit at big dividends for me. It was a big call at the Australians by a colleague in the store. (Single Female 10) with rankings 1-5 being beginning of the year but it paid off.” here since then. Obviously I do miss Australia an event in New Caledonia. But her selection on many occasions and it is a shame that the and success as a member of different Senior for athletes in wheelchairs and 6-10 for In Australia, I lived in a small town, Minyip competitors who stand to compete, with 6 Milly made national headlines in the lead-up and many times when people come into the distance is so great in order to travel back and National Teams that has her fast becoming a to the Commonwealth Games being the first forth frequently! household name. being most disabled through to 10 being least. store and they are from Australia, they are disabled athlete to gain a place in the able- from the larger cities. In the case with Matt, “To make the 2012 Paralympic Team I had to Classmates of George can drop him an email Tasting success at Junior levels has had bodied Australian Commonwealth Games he did say “country” , which triggered spend a lot of 2011 overseas, I had to get my at [email protected] Milly chasing the same success at Senior team. our conversation off, leading to Monivae and tournament credit points up, and then I had level as she was looking to gain selection in of our attendance there. We spoke of football, to compete at the regional championships in Leading up to the qualifiers on the Gold Coast the Senior National Teams for Olympic and for the Commonwealth Games, Tapper was cricket, teachers and various nostalgic things. Commonwealth Games. Hong Kong where I placed second, with first gaining automatic Olympic selection.” the sixth seed. I remember getting carried away with the “Every year that an Olympics or Commonwealth conversation of the ‘84 senior football team of Despite a second placed finish, Milly gained “I didn’t have to pre-qualify so this took Games has come up I have tried to qualify for that year and how Matt said to me “they are her Olympic spot by finishing the season the pressure off me. My first day I had two those teams, it has always been the goal to still talking about that year’s footy team”. Which ranked as the World Number 1. matches and played terrible, I barely got a make the Senior National and every time I have look in during those matches and they were made me extremely proud since I was part of tried to qualify I was getting very close.” “My world ranking at the end of the season got against girls I am very competitive with, it was that squad. In 2012, Milly was chasing a spot at London me an automatic qualification into the 2012 a tough night back in my room going over the but the selection process to make an Olympic Paralympics.” matches in my head.” Team is very tough. An early start to her Paralympic campaign Milly was being supported by her Father, meant that there was no marching in the Charlie at the event as well as her two coaches. Year 12 Results Opening Ceremony. “We went through the games and sorted it all Our newest Old Collegians, the Class “I wish I could tell you about the Opening out and I came out and won 4 of 5 on Saturday of 2014 have received their results Ceremony but I didn’t go as I had a 9:30am and 3 out of 4 matches on Sunday and this from their Year 12 studies and the match the next morning, but I could see the time the count-back went for me and I gained fireworks from my room. We stayed in the same the automatic entry by finishing in third spot.” College couldn’t be prouder of their Athlete’s Village and played in the same venues efforts. as the Olympics and it was a huge eye opener At the Commonwealth Games, playing in the School Captain, Dylan Gracias was Dux of the for me. I had never played a tournament of that Womens Team event, Milly and the Australian year with an impressive ATAR of 98.05. There size before. It was just all about taking it in.” team defeated Guyana and Scotland in the Contribute was another eight students who received pool play and then defeated Wales 3-0 in Milly finished fourth, narrowly missing out on the quarters, a lose to Malayasia is the semis Stories and photos for the Dolphin ATARs above 90 and nearly 50% of the the Bronze Medal going down three games to students receiving their ATAR had a score of moved Australia to play and win against India can be sent to: two, but was happy with her performance. for the Bronze Medal. 70 or above. [email protected] “I competed to my expectations and almost As a student, Milly remembers playing Table At the Year 12 Final Assembly, Bethany exceeded them, I learnt a lot just from being Tennis in the court yard and spending time Don’t forget to take your Dolphin with Gallagher was awarded the Jules Chevalier able to compete and that has helped over the with friends. “I had amazing friends at Monivae you and get a photo of you reading Award as the most outstanding student from the Class of 2014. next 18 months, just having that experience, who I keep in very close contact with. I think it in some far part of the world. After seeing what it is all like at that level was a big the friends you make at school, your original All members of the Class of 2014 should be help for the future.” all the Dolphin does get read on all friends are always your strongest, your friends congratulated for their academic efforts. is what makes school fun.” seven continents. Whilst there is some Paralympic Events at the 4MonivaeMonivae College College thethe Dolphin 15 Playing with Spirit - Emma Kearney Back of Bourke

In her final year at Monivae in 2007, The carnival was played in Cairns against A recent girls cricket clinic held in Dunkeld If you’ve talked to my parents lately, Shae. I saw the power of her words of faith, run – an enormous amount in Cambodia where Emma Kearney was awarded the NSW, QLD and WA. Emma played well and bought Emma back to her home region, giving they’ve no doubt told you about my inspiring people to stay strong by keeping God the average wage is only $1 a day. The school was rewarded with an All Australian selection. her the opportunity to catch up with family. close to their hearts. As an outsider observing, is a not-for-profit organisation with no regular ‘Father Edminston Cup’ as the Senior brother Liam and I. In fact, you’re it has been truly encouraging to me to see funding and is reliant on foreign donors. Sportswomen of the Year, to go along “We were able to beat Western Australia in the “I try to get home as often as I can, usually probably sick of hearing about us young people given a place where they feel Somehow, Liam, Song and the teachers make with her awards for ‘Senior Female final to win the national championships. From around school holidays, I’ll pop back home. by now. Liam is teaching English safe, valued and loved. The Voice tells them it work. that tournament they selected an All Australian It can be tough sometimes as I’m pretty busy in Cambodia and I’m working in they are essential to the future of their nation. Athletics’ and ‘Senior Hockey.’ It was team, I was lucky enough to be picked as a with all my training and playing, but I do when Siem Reap and Port Moresby are a long way clear to all that sport was going to midfielder.” I can.” Communications and Development So that’s what I’m up to… call me crazy. I’d from Mum and Dad in Hamilton. But we’re figure prominently in Emma’s future. in Papua New Guinea. call myself lucky - lucky to have a small part not trying to get away from our parents. In Her selection for Victoria was certainly justified We wish Emma and the Vic Spirit all the best in a movement of a new generation who won’t fact, I’m sure it’s our family’s compassionate It is no surprise then that Emma is a Victorian when she was selected with the No. 10 pick by this season. Michelle Bourke - Class of ‘04 accept the odds stacked against them. PNG’s and hardworking nature that has inspired cricketer, was drafted by the the Western Bulldogs in the historic inaugural problems are complex, but the people I’ve us to go and take up these challenges. Dad A school friend recently commented on a at pick 10 for the inaugural AFL Womens AFL women’s draft held in 2013 prior to a met are energised by a belief that change will says “volunteering is contagious – you catch photo of me on Facebook: “What are you up to Exhibition match in 2013, played football match against Melbourne. happen in their nation – and it’s their generation it from your kids”. He himself also took up a for Victoria, earned All-Australian selection now, you crazy kid?” Well, I’ve packed up and “Being drafted was really special and really making the change. similar challenge, teaching English in Mysore, and followed it up with another game for left Australia for 6 months (again) to volunteer surprising,” Kearney said. “I went into it not India last year. We want to use our skills to the Western Bulldogs in 2014. All this whilst in Papua New Guinea. Liam Bourke - Class of ‘08 really expecting anything and to be taken at make a difference in communities that need juggling her career as a Physical Education No. 10 was ... very exciting and something I’ll My position is Marketing and Communications My everyday routine working in an office in it – no matter how small our contribution. (PE) Teacher. remember forever.” Officer at The Voice Inc, a youth development PNG is very different to my brother Liam’s day- We are so lucky to have grown up in safe, loving, supportive environments, with a good Departing Monivae, Emma moved to Ballarat organisation. The Voice (not to be confused to-day life. Since January 2014, he’s has been Emma retained her spot for the Western education. Travelling has opened our eyes to where she studied teaching at Ballarat with the singing competition) was started teaching English at Samart School in a village Bulldogs in 2014, and despite her team going the fact that not everyone in the world is lucky University (now Federation University) and now in 2007 by a small group of passionate law just out of Siem Reap, Cambodia - a short tuk down in the match, Emma was named among to have that. is a PE Teacher at Mount Alexander College in students who believed young people are the tuk ride away from the world famous Angkor the best players. leaders in creating the future today. Flemington. Whilst she was a very well known Wat. Six nights a week, “Teacher Liam” stands Samart School in Cambodia is taking donations junior cricketer, being the only female student Her 2014 football season was also successful It’s easy to feel disheartened by the in a humid, dusty classroom, batting away now: www.samartschool.org ever selected in the Monivae 1st XI, it wasn’t personally, winning the 2014 Club Best and persistent poverty and social inequality in insects and dodging geckos on a whiteboard. More information about The Voice’s work with until she was at University that she began Fairest award for the MUGARS but also being PNG. Approximately 40% of the population His students are teenagers who go to local youth in PNG: www.thevoicepng.org playing football. named best player in the finals. lives on less than $1 a day, while millions of school all day, then ride their bikes through public funds are lost due to corruption every the rice paddies to learn English at night. More about the Australian Volunteers for Emma said that even though she did study at Despite her football success, it is time spent They don’t do this because it’s compulsory, or Ballarat she ended up playing football for the on the same ovals in the summer months as a year. Gender-based violence is a significant International Development (AVID) program: problem and PNG has the worst maternal because their parents are pushing them to do www.australianaidvolunteers.gov.au Melbourne University Girls Australian Rules cricketer, where her passion truly lies. an extra-curricular activity - they do it because Squad (MUGARS). mortality rate in the Pacific. Playing for the Essendon Maribyrnong they love to learn. “A friend from cricket asked me to come play Cricket Club in the Victorian Women’s Cricket Before I came here, I thought PNG must be a place of darkness. Surely it’s impossible to When Liam isn’t in the classroom he’s dancing for her team (MUGARS) and I did. I always Association, Emma has been among the at weddings, singing Khmer karaoke and wanted to play it, but never knew much about leading wicket takers in the competition in improve such a difficult, complex situation? But after working at The Voice I now see a being climbed on by hoards of bouncing kids. it. I’m glad I ended up playing because it’s recent years. As an opening bowler, Emma Left: Emma with the Vic Spirit. He attracts the attention of a celebrity: from the been heaps of fun.” was the leading wicket taker in 2011/12 with 26 glimmer of light in the darkness -and that light Above: Playing with the MUGARS is young people. toddlers to old ladies, people call out “Teacher Emma said she would kick the footy in the Liam” and wave at him with a big smile as he Below: Her biggest fan, niece Layla Kearney, backyard with brother Josh (Class of ’09) and Based on the idea “we cannot build a nation drives past on his motorbike. The thing that her Dad Michael and has always loved the daughter of Josh Kearney Class of ‘09. on broken people”, The Voice gives youth really struck me when I visited Liam in June sport playing for St Mary’s in school footy and in PNG a sense of purpose, confidence and (besides the fact that he now speaks Khmer) of course representing Monivae at inter-school contribution in their lives. I arrived right in the was how important his presence in the small level. middle of organisation’s Clean Generation village is. Liam’s not only a teacher: he’s a big Campaign, which uses positive peer pressure brother, taxi driver, builder, tour guide and “I always loved playing inter-school sports, to encourage young people to make the right volunteer coordinator. Liam’s not treated like a didn’t matter what it was. I loved representing decisions when they’re growing up. It’s about foreigner but a member of the family and many Monivae in basketball, cricket, netball or being clean on the inside. ‘Clean Generators’ people rely on him for his help. football. It was always a highlight to play are trained to become leaders who will go netball or cricket in Melbourne. The trips were back to their school and communities and Although I’m bursting with big-sisterly-pride, always great fun.” encourage their peers to take a stand against Liam is not actually the hero in this story. It’s the negative influences in their lives. Song, the school’s founder and owner – an It didn’t take long for Emma’s football skill ex-monk with a big heart, who speaks four to be noticed, quickly becoming one of wickets, while she finished second in 2012/13 I have met so many inspirational young people languages and taught himself English by the MUGARS best players in the Victorian with 31 victims. Her call-up to the Victorian at high schools and universities who come writing words on his toilet door. 26-year-old Women’s Football League, with this success Spirit seemed a certainty, but an injury setback from backgrounds of violence, inequality and Song started the school because he wanted earning her selection into the Victorian squad. put her behind. mental illness. But they have hope for the to give a gift to the kids in his community. future and throw all their energy into being Emma was one of 40 players selected in the In Cambodia, the ability to speak English Despite this, last season Emma played 10 change makers for PNG. squad who were all vying for a game with the puts you ahead of the pack. This is the first games for the Vic Spirit and is busy training for generation to dream of a future since the ‘Big V’. It’s important to note the role of religion in PNG; the up-coming season. Right top: Liam Bourke in his classroom in near horrific acts committed by the Khmer Rouge Christianity is a big part of everyday life. I was “We had around ten training sessions to pick in the 70s. “My goal for this year is to cement my spot in Siem Reap, Cambodia. lucky enough to be part of the Clean Generation the final team. I was lucky enough to get all the games, particularly the 20/20 games, as Right bottom: Michelle Bourke with the locals Campaign’s high point: The Stand concert, picked for Victoria for the first time.” But running the school isn’t easy. Classes are I was picked mostly for one-day games.” at the Goroka Show. featuring American Christian Singer Beckah free for students, and cost $500 a month to

6MonivaeMonivae College College thethe Dolphin 17 40 Year Reunion - Class of ‘74 30 Year Reunion - Class of ‘84

Members of the Class of 1984 have significant number of my contemporaries, Below: Cathy Dosetto, Jenny Moon and travelled varied paths since we left including some attendees, suffered child Narelle Kelly. sexual abuse at the hands of an MSC Middle: The boys on the school tour. Monivae but the bond between us brother now serving jail-time for his crimes. was enough for many to keep in touch Bottom: Jodie Linke, Carleen Cullinane, An- over the years and, in many cases, I hope that the wounds and wrong-doings drea Occhipinti, Julie Barbey, Angela King and Nikki Parker. grow even closer friendships. That can be acknowledged so that all alumni feel bond was more than enough to draw welcome and comfortable enough to return some day, if they so desire. many back to celebrate our 30-year reunion on Saturday, 23 August 2014. Chris Lourey 1981-1984 From all around Australia we gathered, including from WA and Queensland. Special Lifeline - 13 11 14 (24 hour support) mention to one alumnus who travelled from 1800 Respect - 1800 737 732 (24 hour) London despite having no other commitments Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Unit in Australia. She had missed our 20-year get- Victoria Police 03 5560 1333 (Warrnambool) together and was determined not to miss this one! Below: The girls who toured Monivae on the We enjoyed an excellent night of bonhomie foyer steps. and reminiscing at the Grange Burn Mo- Middle: Andrew Gash and Craig Goodman. tel opposite the school grounds. Thanks to the Monivae Alumni staff’s efficient planning and committed efforts, the night flowed smoothly. Many laughs were had as we browsed the folders of photos and the yearly It seems like ‘only yesterday’ or ‘such Annuals. Many light-hearted “debates” were a bloody long time ago’ depending settled by quick flicking of pages to the primary on who you asked since the Class of source materials to aid our ailing memories. 1974 left Monivae College. But by far, the entertainment highlight was Many who attended the night had covered viewing the video of the Year 11 Debutant Ball. large distances, some had only travelled two The room rocked with laughter and squeals suburbs, regardless all were appreciative of of delight! Young ladies looked resplendent the efforts of those who came together to meet in taffeta-meringue concoctions, blue eye- on October 11 at the Emerald Hotel in South shadow and hair-dos from, well, the ‘80s. Melbourne. Young bucks shone in their elegant tuxedos, bow-ties and shiny shoes. Much mirth as we The small, but enthusiastic members from the scrutinized nervous couples descend the stairs Class of ‘74 came together to remember their and curtsey or bow to the local dignitaries. time at Monivae College. Then tears were shed silently as old friends no longer amongst us appeared on the screen in Friendships were renewed as names and poignant moments. faces were matched up with memories from their time in class, in the boarding house or at On Sunday, Simon McKinley led a tour of previous gatherings. the Monivae campus and we marvelled at the many improvements since our day. A hair Priests and Brothers were remembered, the salon for girl boarders; small bedrooms for the great achievements were highlighted by males; well-appointed facilities for the arts, looking at past annuals and the evening sciences and practical hands-on subjects. I passed very quickly with vows to catch-up was amazed to discover that the performing again very soon. arts centre, built after we had left, was already Email addresses and other contact details for “obsolescent” and construction of a new and improved facility was part-completed. the evening were circulated after the event Clockwise from left: by the Monivae Development staff and if you Undoubtedly the biggest change is the would like to be added to the list please email 1. Ian Mitchell and Laurie Hickey. school’s commitment to building the Well- [email protected] 2. Mark Neilsen, Gary Kavanagh and Paul ness Centre (see earlier Dolphins) and its Costello. Thank you to Simon from Monivae who helped dedication to incorporating the philosophy organise the night and we hope to see many 3. Stanley Chang and Michael Hiscock. of “wellness” into the mainstream of every more of our classmates at the next event, 4. Dean Peters, Paul Brophy and John O’Brien. student’s experience. By taking a holistic whenever that shall be. 6. David Brownstein and Michael and Barbara approach to student welfare, I can only hope Lourey. that some of the darkest days of Monivae’s history will never be repeated.

For, sadly, the elephant in the room when revisiting Monivae was the fact that a

8MonivaeMonivae College College thethe Dolphin 19 20 Year Reunion - Class of ‘94 10 Year Reunion - Class of ‘04

On August 30th the Class of 1994 celebrated their 20 year reunion at On the 18th of October the Class the Grange Burn opposite Monivae. of 2004 got together to celebrate There was bound to be a few sore 10 years since completing Year 12. heads and more than one of the The group of about 25 gathered in experienced staff at Monivae was the boarder’s dining room, or the heard to make reference to the canteen, as we knew it when we were infamous group from 1994. at school. Whilst a 10 year reunion sees many newly We chattered about the last 10 years and what married couples, the 20 year reunion often we’d all achieved. Many had travelled and sees many phones proudly showing off babies worked overseas, some had gotten married and children as Old Collegians move from and started families and others had been their late twenties through to their thirties, with working hard towards their dream jobs. some on the brink of sending their child onto As we looked through Annuals and old photos secondary education. we reminisced about teachers, other students The night was a great success with around 40 and how much the school had changed. A Old Collegian and many more partners, many tour of the school prior highlighted how many former Monivae students themselves, making of the things we remember at Monivae from the most of a great night out. our time were different. New classrooms were Br Dan’s office use to be, St Mary’s Primary It is fair to say that most of the Class of ‘94 School on the old equestrian area, the new kicked on at the Commercial Hotel following girls boarding featured a salon and many the reunion, meeting up with members of the couldn’t believe that the basement now had Class of 94 from Hamilton High School, making heating and carpet and that there was a lift. for a great night of celebration. Clockwise from left: 1. In the Monivae foyer. Top right: Sarah Earll, Leanne Turner (Jansen) 2. Back: Susannah Milne, Emma McPhee A great night was had by all thank you to Simon and Georgie Cole. Thanks to those who travelled great distances (Manders), Jacqui Norris, Renae Kelly (Bax- McKinley and Di Taylor for organizing the night 2nd right: Renae Beks and Kari Beaton. to make it to the night, those who made the ter), Alicia Weise (Brinkmann), Kelly Davies but special thanks to those who made the 3rd right: Jess Lovell, Lachie McKenzie and effort to spread the word about the event (Roberts) and Sally Hudson. Front: Kristy effort to meet up, it was a fun night and we Jonathon Dyson. and to those who took the time to bring in Dickson (Shepherd), Nibyah Purcell, Lisa hope to see many more in five years perhaps? 4th right: Paul and Elise Rhook (Grenfell). mementos from their days at Monivae College. Greenaway and Nicole Moore. Elise Rhook (Grenfell). Right: Matthew and Sarah Carew (Turnbull). 3. Daniel May and Kate Pierce (Buchannan) Above top: Gemma Brunckhorst and Megan 4. Adam Jennings, Aaron Sevior, Sam Beaton, Kruger (McDonald). Hayden Clarke and Matt Dunn. Above: Kate Healy (left) and Pedita Van Hees 5. Ben Plush with partner Dominique and Brent with their partners Daniel (far left) and Caillan. Penny and wife Kylie.

10MonivaeMonivae College College thethe Dolphin 111 The Mayor - Kelly Howlett Top Cop - Nick Finnegan

I came from Hamilton College to Community Volunteer Monitoring Program, with hotel developers, or representatives from Nick Finnegan (Class of 1977) was living in the country, instead of having 100s of with simple actions. What he misses about Monivae College in 1992. After some run a localised container deposit program, the mining industry or talking about strategic awarded the National Police Service acres between families there was a metre or Melbourne is the anonymity (there is no such less between the small 2 bedroom houses.” thing as a day off in a country town) and the instigate a recycling program, reef watch port growth. The next minute I am officially Medal as part of the Queens Birthday initial questioning by fellow students, program, garden program and competitions, opening a business, conducting a citizenship different foods of Melbourne. Nick was also involved in I soon settled in to life at Monivae. I establish a community garden (with plans ceremony, or talking to school students, Honours which came totally out of When reflecting on his time at Monivae Nick for several more), hold clean up events, welcoming a cruise ship or reading a book to left field because in Nick’s words, “ I was a day student and each day I did • the planning for the policing of the Grand recalls the sense of community service, sense address local litter issues and overall raise the children at a local daycare. the long bus trip to/from Heywood. have always regarded myself as just Prix in 1996, of right & wrong and the love of reading and the awareness of the community towards a bit of a plodder in policing terms.” • MUA Waterfront dispute 1998, a philosophical outlook on life. “I still keep in I have friendships from Monivae that I have environmental and sustainability issues. In early 2013, I was again unsuccessful in contact with a couple of old boys from that continued and even today I still count those another attempt at State Politics, this time The National Police Service Medal recognises • 5 months of continuous policing at the era when we try & pick a winner on a quite as my closest friends. I still look back fondly Following my passion and desire to ensure with WA Labor. In late 2013, I re-contested the special status that sworn police officers Docks, Saturday afternoon. Gerald Hicks is well in on memories such as those from cadets the conservation of our local Flatback Turtles, my position as Mayor and was elected for have because of their role protecting the • received a Highly Commended front on the tipping stakes”. (especially annual cadet camp), work but to also see a sustainable tourism element another four year term. I have purchased community. It represents a police officer’s past Commissioners Certificate, introduced, I left Council and took up the and am currently paying off a house in South experience, geography with Mr Goodwin, and future commitment to give ethical and “I recently caught up with Bryan Roberts OAM position of Manager of the Port Hedland Hedland. Recently I have become engaged • multiple secondments to St Kilda & Prahran, laboratory lessons especially Chemistry diligent service. where we spoke of the Monivae from days of Visitor Centre. There at the Visitor Centre, I to my partner of four years, Peter and we are with Mr Ross, Physics with Mr Brown and Nick was seconded to Internal Security Unit old some things have changed but the sense loved the role and the opportunity to be a planning an April 2016 wedding. We have two “There is always something to be done and to Environmental Science with Ms McGaffin. for 4 years. Investigating Police corruption, of service and helping others when you can proud ambassador and advocate for the town adorable fur babies - cats - Harvey and Sky. cut through as much red tape as possible and including looking at the illegal brothels / drugs has remained consistent through the years”. After graduating at the end of 1994, I was through tourism. I am still a mad, one eyed North Melbourne just make it happen because in general terms of the late 70s to early 80s. The subsequent accepted into my first choice of Bachelor supporter/member and recently visited Victoria you are dealing with people.” “Was I a good scholar? No, if I had my time Greens (WA) approached me to be a trial of corrupt police was mooted to be the Science at the University of Melbourne. After to watch their most recent finals campaign. again I would have been more dedicate to the candidate during the 2005 State Election. I Looking over Nick’s life and career we can see 2nd longest trial in Victoria’s history. first year at university I added to my studies academic rigors. To this day maths of even was unsuccessful in my election attempt, but If anyone is ever in Port Hedland please do why he is a worthy recipient. and switched into a Bachelor Science/ The trial in total lasted some 18 months. the simplest equations is a challenge to me. loved the role of campaigning, raising issues, drop by the Town of Port Hedland and I would Bachelor Forest Science. Nick grew up on the family farm in Byaduk This is where Nick met a lovely young lady helping people and speaking up for social love to show any former Monivae students Give me a book on anything where you have North with his parents John and Cath both named Olya who worked at the Office of Before my final year, I brought a $2,000 car and environmental issues. So in 2007 I ran around the town. to question them or apply the proposition to deceased and his siblings, Erin - Portland, Public Prosecutions. “Bearing in mind I was travelling and working around Australia by for local government and was successfully yourself & I am in my element. Leo – (Class 79) Policeman, Portland, Adrian at Court many of the days as was she, one myself, gaining and having some amazing elected as a Councillor to the Town of Port Kelly Howlett (Class ’83) Retired Policeman, Ballarat and thing lead to another and as I keep reminding experiences, particularly in Western Australia. Hedland. I loved this role and wanted to do 0439 941 431 I have two daughters, Katya & Sophia and I Tim (Class 88) Cabinet Maker, Echuca. her. The corrupt copper got 7 years & I got more. I was unsuccessful again in the State enjoy all aspects of kids education, love food, I came back to university after my year away life (married)”. Election of 2008. In 2009, after being inspired wine, reading, haven’t counted for a while but and completed my studies at the end of His parents had a bad car accident in 2005 at a Women in Local Government conference Nick received a Chief Commissioners estimate 2,500 books mainly biographies. 2000, adding and completing an Honours which moved them off the farm and into care in May, I nominated and ran for the position Certificate for that investigation. Enjoy reading on all aspects of history while within the Bachelor Forest Science. In 2000 and was the catalyst for his return to the of Mayor. I was the only female and youngest not agreeing on what has occurred but on the environmental sector in Victoria was in a country. Nick is currently the Inspector in Close to home which at the time was Moonee candidate at 32 years old. In October 2009, I trying to work out why they did certain things. period of significant downturn. So I thought charge of policing in Southern Grampians & Ponds he was stationed at Avondale Heights, was successfully elected as Mayor of the Town nothing of returning to Western Australia. Glenelg. working with Essendon & Tullamarine airports, Nick Finnegan of Port Hedland and was (and still am) the Leaving Monivae in Year 11 Nick worked at the planning for emergencies. Then Nick moved Today nearly 15 years on, I now proudly call youngest Mayor in Western Australia. onto the Aboriginal Advisory Unit, Policy & myself a Sandgroper and have not looked State Bank before joining the Victorian Police I love my role as Mayor, which I fulfil on a Research. back. When I travelled around Australia, I Force in August 1980. His first posting was full time basis, I can see where I have, and spent some time in Port Hedland, as a barmaid Russell Street where he was thrown into the Nick returned to Hamilton in 2005 and with importantly where I am making a difference. It Above: Kelly with her father and being sworn and High School gardener. deep end. Foot patrol on his own, with no local Aboriginal elders set up a cultural is a role I fill with immense pride and obtain in as Mayor below, intimate knowledge of the city, as a country kid awareness tour to Lake Condah & surrounds. I came back to Port Hedland at the end of 2000 tremendous job satisfaction. I could be dealing he grew up very fast. Still going to this date, the tour gives police an and started work with the local Council, the Then onto Elsternwick where he was exposed insight into aspects of Indigenous history & Town of Port Hedland, as a gardener. I soon why certain sentiments are held by both sides. joined a relevant local industry community to the Jewish community and their tolerance consultative group, wanting to contribute, especially when you consider what had Nick is very proud that two Chief Commissioners share and add my environmental science occurred to them after WW2. have attended the tour and police have come expertise for the good of the community. Country life called him back and Nick was from across the state. The tour has expanded stationed in Warrnambool in 1983. across the Judiciary with some Judges also My qualifications were soon recognised by attending. my local Council and from gardener I was Nick received his first Chief Commissioners internally switched and employed as their first Certificate for bravery negotiating with a “Policing is a great profession, I still enjoy Sustainability Development Officer. During male threatening him and his partner after going to work and every day is a challenge.” this time, recognising that Port Hedland spreading petrol through his house. Longest Recent events been involved in; had no local environmental group or voice, I 3.5 hours spent with a male threatening to flick founded, with just 12 members, the Care For a cigarette lighter. “We talked our way out – • Campaign fires, Black Saturday & more Hedland Environmental Association. Nearly Irish heritage and the gift of the gab.” recent 12 years on, I have throughout and remain the • Telstra Outage Association’s passionate Chairperson and lead In 1989 Nick returned to metropolitan the Association’s efforts locally and regionally. Melbourne working in South and Port • Derrinallum Explosive incident The Association today has a membership of Melbourne. This was one of the highlights of his • Portland Tar Pitch Incident over 155 members and now employs a full time career. “Even though it is (was) a small inner staff member and seasonally specific contract suburb it had a wonderful sense of community. Who says country life is quite !! staff. Through these efforts I have been able Where locals really looked after each other What Nick likes about Hamilton is a real sense to start a nationally recognised Flatback Turtle and were good to deal with. It was much like of community and that you can achieve a lot

12MonivaeMonivae College College thethe Dolphin 131 Where in the World Reunions Chevalier Centre What is Geoffrey Favaloro, Class John Baker or Jack from the Class of The dates for all reunions to be held The construction of the Chevalier of ‘70 doing in Boracay island, ‘72 was impressed when he saw the in 2015 are listed below. Do you want Centre is progressing well with Philippines? cover of the last issue of the Dolphin. some input on where your reunion Stage 1 expected to be complete Geoffrey can be seen here taking a warm He thought he had a few photos of is being held? Then email Simon at in February. The Centre is being break from the Victorian cold weather, which his own that readers of the Dolphin [email protected] and constructed in between the PAC/ he got quite accustomed too as a six year long might be interested in. see how you can assist. Arts buildings and the stadiums. The Border at Monivae; from 1964 – 1970. Geoff Currently residing in Fremantle Jack works in Centre was profiled in Issue 23 of resides in Melbourne these days and runs a the Dolphin and the next issue will private psychology practice (last 17 years) construction and that takes him to different 40 Year Reunion having worked as a founding member in parts of the world, with a recent trip to contain completed photos. Family Meditation for some years before that. Papua New Guinea which is where these He also actively teaches and trains others and photos where taken. Jack is happy to hear Class of 1975 on this trip he gave a training presentation on from classmates and can be contacted on the subject of “Powers of Meditation” to an [email protected] enthusiastic group in Roxas City (Capiz island, Saturday, 17th October 2015. Philippines). Geoff was greatly inspired by prayer and contemplation all those years ago by his daily 30 Year Reunion attendance at mass services, yes that’s daily! – back in the old days when 99% of staff were priests and brothers running Monivae. Another Class of 1985 world it seems like now! Saturday, 25th July 2015. 20 Year Reunion Class of 1995 Saturday, 18th July 2015. 10 Year Reunion Class of 2005 Saturday, 10th October 2015. 5 Year Reunion Class of 2010 Saturday, 24th October 2015. 1 Year Reunion

Class of 2014 Above: Building works commence between Arts and PAC Buildings. Friday, 13th November 2015. Top right: The student entrance looking down from the Library. Dunkeld Races Middle right: The east stadium will house a 700-seat retractable seating Above: The new toilet and gym Above: Looking up the old road Monivae Foundation Marquee system, new floor and stage. behind the west stadium between the stadium and technology Saturday, 14th November 2015. buildings.

14MonivaeMonivae College College thethe Dolphin 151