The Oakhill Drive volume 32 | july 2015

The Centenary of the Gallipoli Campaign 1915 – 2015

his year, 2015, marks one hundred years since the Gallipoli Campaign in World War I. The spirit of ANZAC has come to mean T many things for so many people over these past 100 Years. Next year, 2016, Oakhill College will celebrate 80 Years of Lasallian education in the Hills Region. During the course of our 80 Year history only one of our Alumni has died in the service of our country – Trooper Jason Brown (Class of 1999). In 2013 Jason was made an Alumni of Distinction (posthumously) in memorial of his life. Many hundreds of our Alumni have served or are still serving in our defence forces. As we pay tribute to all those many Australian men and women who have died in conflicts around the world over the past 100 years we would also like to recognise the achievements and on-going commitment to the service of this country by our Alumni. One such person is Colonel Kahlil Fegan. Kahlil Fegan graduated from Oakhill College in 1988 after commencing at the school eight years earlier in Grade 5. He studied for a Bachelor of Arts Degree at Newcastle University prior to graduating from the Royal Military College - Duntroon in 1993, to the Royal Australian Infantry Corps. He has served in a wide variety of roles in Australia, Canada, East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan. Kahlil is currently serving as the Chief of Staff of the 1st Division/Deployable Joint Forces Headquarters. He is married to Ilona, an Organisational Development Manager and has two daughters, Caitlin and Lauren and a young son Elijah. In 2005 Kahlil was awarded a Commendation for Distinguished Service for his command of a specialist Security Detachment in Iraq and in 2013 he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his command of a Task Force in Afghanistan. In his address at the 2015 ANZAC DAY Dawn Service at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Kahlil spoke of what makes the Colonel Kahlil Fegan. achievements of our Australian men and women who serve or have served in the Armed Forces so ‘special’ – what sets us apart from all seen stubbornness and unrelenting determination. I have seen duty the rest. Colonel Fegan said: “I have often contemplated what makes us and patriotism; wonderful humor, larrikinism, exuberance and mateship; different. Certainly we have excellent leaders, world class training and and I have seen humility and compassion when it has been needed the equipment. These things are quantifiable, however there is something most by those who are most vulnerable. less definable or measurable; an attitude or indeed what some will call What I have seen I can only describe as a manifestation of a subtle a ‘spirit’ - that I contest is reflected in the eyes of the men and women ‘spirit’ that reflects the collective amalgamation and union of these with whom I have served on operations. traits and qualities in an absolutely and uniquely Australian way. In their eyes, at times, I have seen the horror, hardship and For me it is the same ‘spirit’ that drove our original ANZAC’s out sorrow that is synonymous with conflict. But I have also seen acts of the boats and onto the beaches at Suvla Bay, at this time, on this of commendable courage, endurance and audacity in the face of the morning, 100 years ago.” enemy; I have seen initiative, teamwork, discipline and respect; I have In this edition of the Drive we “salute” them!

1 1 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au 2015 Reunions

The following dates have been set for Reunions in 2015:

SATURDAY 15 AUGUST – THE 50’S REUNION hope that as you read this edition of the SATURDAY 5 SEPTEMBER – CLASS OF 1995 Oakhill Drive, you are inspired as much SATURDAY 7 NOVEMBER – CLASS OF 2005 I as I am by the stories of so many of our alumni who have served in the defence forces. Mark the date in your Calendar NOW! Formal invitations to the Brother Raymond Khan has gathered together Reunions will be sent approximately six weeks prior to the Event. some special articles for this ANZAC tribute. Our only regret is that We look forward to welcoming you ALL back to the College. space did not allow us to use all the pieces we received and we are grateful to everyone who responded to his request. On another note I have to advise that this will be the last edition of the Oakhill Drive under my editorship. I have decided to retire from the full-time workforce and have therefore resigned as College Bursar. your feedback The last eighteen years have seen many changes at the College and I consider myself privileged to have had the opportunity to work John Roddy (Class of 1948) – John writes: “I started in Fourth with the De La Salle Brothers, the staff and indeed the wider College Class in 1945 and left after First Year in 1948. I completed the community. Leaving Certificate in 1952 at St Patrick’s Strathfield. Our family In particular I am indebted to the very many alumni I have come lived in “The Lodge” at the front gate of the property. I used to to know personally. You are a very special group whose success and help out at the dairy – hand milking the cows. Br Oliver O’Leary community engagement reinforces what the College is all about. was the main farm hand along with Br Lawrence. Those were As I go on to next adventure in my life I would like to express a the days! Even though I don’t know the people mentioned in wish for happiness and peace in all your families. the Oakhill Drive, I still enjoy reading the stories.” Steve Molloy George Roman (Class of 1960) – George sent us a College Bursar donation to help with the postage costs! George writes: “When time permits I reminisce about our school days with fond memories.”

John Hollis (Teacher 1984 – 2014) – Thanks so much for publishing the article on Chris’ sailing exploits. I was thrilled to see it there. Chris is coming home soon after two years away. I’ll be sure to show him the article. I’ll have to send you something on Melissa (class of 2000) next year. The publication has certainly gone from strength to strength. Interesting to read about Chris Diekman (Class of 1978). We used his text as a sound reference above all others! Br Peter McIntosh (Principal 1976 -1981) and Steve Molloy.

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2 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au Over many years the Oakhill College community has been renowned for their generosity. 2015 has been no exception.

ART IN THE HILLS The 44th Art in the Hills was held in March. Once again the Centenary Sports Centre was turned into a wonderful art and craft exhibition. The number of artists exhibiting their works continues to grow each and every year. The amount raised at the Exhibition was close to $27,000. The money raised will go towards the refurbishment of the P J Walsh appreciation for the “overwhelming support provided by our local Library. Thanks to Mrs Terri Unwin (Art in the Hills Co-ordinator) and the community in sponsoring the event.” Thank you to the Oakhill and Committee who spent endless hours preparing for the event. Keep your wider Community for enabling us to reach our target of $60,000. The eye out for the date in 2016 – the 45th Art in the Hills! money raised will help to improve the lives of many disadvantaged children and their families.”

GALA DAY WOW! What a fantastic day! It was a great day with so much activity and fun, but more importantly it was a brilliant example of all that is great about the Oakhill College community spirit. 2015 was a record breaking year, and whilst we are still reconciling some costs we expect that the donation towards the library refurbishment will be somewhere in the vicinity of $50,000. This is something that students for years to come will benefit greatly MAD 2015 – Who do we stand for? from and we are incredibly grateful to you, the Oakhill Community for The inaugural and highly anticipated Mission Action Day was held on 1st helping to make it possible. May. Despite the inclement weather, the day was a huge success. The A special word of thanks to Mrs Kelly Edwards (Gala Day Co-ordinator) event began with our annual Founder’s Day Mass celebrated by Fr Paul and the very hardworking Gala Day Committee. Durkin PP of St Agatha’s Parish Pennant Hills. At the Mass members of Mr Andrew Carroll (Class of 2001 and PDHPE Teacher) was the proud the College community reflected on what it means to be people of Faith, winner of the Hyundai i20. Service and Community. Our Lasallian Captain, Amy Deakin said, “ MAD allowed us all to recognize our call to serve in the wider community.” Mr Chris Goodman, our Co-ordinator of Solidarity said: “Mission Action Day (MAD) was more than a fundraising event; it was an opportunity for our community to come together and have fun – MAD fun. It was amazing to see the students and staff all engaged in so many activities. The time and effort that went into every single event along with the enthusiasm of our young people shows how Oakhill College can rise to the occasion – rain, hail or shine!” College Captain Ryan Chelvarajah expressed the College’s

3 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au t took four months to create the Castle of Doom that was to become the essence of the Years 7 to 9 musical Bats. Of course, I along with the castle came dancing vampires, harmonising monsters and Oscar award winning Draculas! With a cast of sixty eight students and Tech Crews and Band members from Years 7 to 12 BATS flew into the Adrian building in February, rehearsed and flourished and then presented a fun filled musical over six sold out nights! The entire Drama and Music staff worked on the show and students could see first- hand how theatre truly is a collaborative art form as we prepared the students for ‘Things that Go Bump in the Night’. Some quotes from the cast: “ BATS was exhilarating, exciting and amazing!” “I loved being part of ‘Bats’. It was so much fun, lots of hard work, but in the end, extremely amazing.” Stage and Lighting Crew members found it “fun, friendly and fantastic!” The College was lucky enough to work with state of the art laser lighting to transport its audience back to Transylvania and the remote village of Humperdink with its ruined grape harvest! The way out of the town’s problems was to attract the tourist dollar by tarting up Draculas’ old castle….but the original Dracula reappears and chases and laughs abound! The musical is a tribute to Gothic Horror, which is one of the genres that Year 7 Drama students study. With everything from traditional European Slap Slap dances to 21st century rap BATS was a great success!

4 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au L to R: Nicholas Millett (class of 2011), Natalie Bell (class of 2014), Jarryd Bezzina (class of 2012), John d’Apice (class of 2009) and Luke Sproats (class of 2013) pictured with Katherine Moriarty – Castle Hill Show Girl and Peter Gooch - Castle Hill Show Society President .

he Young Farmer Challenge is a team event hosted at agricultural Competition day was extremely wet, but that did not quash the shows across Australia. Young farmers have the chance to competitive spirit of the team. They were eager to show off the skills T compete against other youth involved in agriculture in tests of skill they had refined on the Oakhill Farm and abroad over many years. and ability in multiple farm-based challenges. The tasks vary between Although narrowly missing out on qualifying for the state final, the team shows, however may include fence building, drenching, tractor driving, completed the course with high-calibre skill and speed. and animal handling. Teams are marked on how well they use safe working methods as well as how quickly and efficiently they proceed through the course. Ex-students John d’Apice (Class of 2009), Nicholas Millet (Class of 2011), Jarryd Bezzina (Class of 2012), Luke Sproats (Class of 2013) and Natalie Bell (Class of 2014) who still remain involved with the College show team, formed a team and competed at the Castle Hill Show. This enabled them to successfully qualify for the state final at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, being the first team to represent Castle Hill Agricultural Society at a state level.

5 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au Elisabeth Amyes - Class of 1986 and Alison Amyes - Class of 1990 After graduating from Oakhill, Elisabeth (‘Liz’) completed a Bachelor of Science degree at Macquarie University. Following this, Liz moved to London, UK for a few years, returning to Baulkham Hills for a short time and then moving back to the UK to live and study in Oxford. Liz worked and studied in the field of neuroscience and immunology, completing a Masters degree and then a Doctor of Philosophy at the Queen’s College, Oxford, and travelled internationally to many academic conferences presenting her research. In 2005 Liz returned to Australia, working in academia in Canberra before completing Medicine at the Australian National University. Liz was selected for a specialist training programme as a Pathologist and is completing this currently at Douglass Hanly Moir. As well as all of this academic success, Liz is passionate about all things horses, owning a chestnut horse ‘Mr Darcy’, competing in local dressage Henry Jones (front row fourth from left) and the Athletes. tournaments and generally enjoying living in semi rural settings with her horse within walking distance from home. Henry Jones, College Captain - Class of 2010 Alison has a wonderful two year old daughter, Lucinda. Alison Many of our readers may have seen Angelina Jolie’s film Unbroken enjoys taking Lucinda to dancing and swimming lessons, and lots which was screened around the world earlier this year. I wonder how of social activities with family and friends. After Alison graduated many of you noticed one of our ex-students in the movie – Henry Jones. from Oakhill she enjoyed a few interesting years as a model which Henry dropped us a few lines about his small role in the movie. took her to Paris and Milan, albeit briefly! Since then Alison worked “With the movie, what happened was that they were filming in Australia as a PA in Sports Management before also moving to London from and for the scene I was in (The Berlin Olympics 5000m race), they 1998-2004 where she worked as a PA in both the television and advertised to acting agencies “runners needed”. However, the applicants music industry. Alison then decided to pursue a lifelong interest they cast for the roles were unable to actually run at the intensity required in psychology and completed an Honours degree at Macquarie for the shooting. Because of this, the producers of the movie approached University and subsequently worked in both mental health and Athletics NSW who in turn invited middle and long distance runners to private surgical practice management in Newcastle NSW. Alison apply for a role and I was lucky enough to be chosen. has returned to Sydney and is currently working part time in the The filming process involved initially choreographing a few psychology field. Alison also has a keen interest in music, live scenes of the race, as they wanted our race to mimic the actual entertainment, cooking, meditation and yoga. Olympic race as closely as possible. For three days, we went out Alison and Liz remember their time at Oakhill very fondly and are to Blacktown Athletics Centre (which they covered in cinder and proud to be ‘Oakhillians’, remembering the generosity of Oakhill and surrounded with a large stone painted wall for the movie), got into the remarkably caring teachers. costume and got our hair and makeup done and when we weren’t stuck in a large tent due to rain, we ran between 200m and 400m repeatedly, capturing every scene from numerous angles. We were able to spend a fair bit of time with the main actor, Jack O’Connell but I was only really star struck when I met Angelina Jolie. For extra authenticity, we were running in the old traditional spikes, with wooden bases in the toe and leather uppers. Running in these caused a number of us to really tighten up and start to get pains in our lower legs. While walking back from getting a massage to keep us moving, Angelina (or “Ang” as everyone referred to her) came up to me and my friend and said “Hey guys, how are your legs holding up?” We then talked to her for about ten minutes about anything we could think of to keep the conversation going and even when the assistant director was yelling at everyone to be back on set, we knew we couldn’t get in trouble because we were with Ang! Louis Zamperini’s story is truly an amazing story of will and determination and I felt privileged being able to play a small part in the telling of his story.” Henry was one of our Share the Mission Volunteers in Balgo Hills Alison Amyes, Lucinda Grace and Liz Amyes. in 2011 and is now completing a Degree in Physiotherapy at ACU.

6 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au Daniel Ford (class of 2009), Rebecca Joyce (class of 2009), Matthew Joyce (class of 2007), Jan Joyce (mother), Andrew Joyce (class of 2003), Justine Gilbert, Terry Joyce (father), Simon Joyce (class of 2001) and Antoinette Joyce.

The Joyce Family Stuart Newman - Class of 2005 and Troy Newman - Class of 2007 Rebecca Joyce - Class of 2009 ANZAC Day – Villers-Bretonneux 2015 Rebecca completed her studies at the University of Sydney in 2013 Both Stuart and Troy attended the Dawn service at Villers-Bretonneux completing a B Applied Science (Occupational Therapy). She is now (VB) on Anzac Day 2015. Following the Dawn service Stuart and Troy working for Qualia OT where her role is to provide therapy for children played in the Anzac Cup. The Anzac Cup is an AFL football game, played with learning difficulties in both home and school environments creating between the French National Side and an Australian side, largely made meaningful relationships with families, parents and their children. up of ex-pats living around Europe. The Anzac Cup is held annually at Matthew Joyce - Class of 2007 Villers-Bretonneux on Anzac Day. This Centenary Year will be the 7th Last year Matthew was a volunteer in a remote Aboriginal community year of the Anzac Cup. Both the boys also participated in the Anzac Cup called Yuendumu in the Northern Territory. Working as an assistant youth at VB back in 2011 whilst they were both working in London. worker he managed activities such as discos, sport competitions, bush Each year, the Australian spirit lives on in Villers-Bretonneux trips and BBQs to keep the youth engaged, interested and challenged through the thousands of people who make the pilgrimage to the during their busy school holiday period. Matthew is currently working Australian National War Memorial in Villers-Bretonneux to honour as a Sport and Recreation Officer for Ku-ring-gai Council and continues those who fell while defending the town, on France’s Western Front. to be a keen runner. He recently completed his First Half Marathon in The first records of Australian Rules being played in Europe Sydney with his brother Simon. was actually on the battlegrounds themselves, during World War 1, Andrew Joyce - Class of 2003 between Australian Companies and Divisions. Andrew studied Environmental Management and Law at Macquarie This year being the Centenary, Stuart, Father (Geoff), Mother (Angela) University and currently lives in Canberra where he works as a and Sister (Melany) also made the pilgrimage to Villers-Bretonneux where lawyer for the Department of the Environment. Andrew was recently they were joined by Troy who is currently married and shared the special day with many of his former Oakhill working in London. In addition to school friends, including groomsmen Brendan Gilbert and Lachlan watching the boys play AFL together, Guselli (Class of 2003). the family experienced the emotion of Simon Joyce - Class of 2001 the Centenary Dawn Service at Simon is a Chartered Accountant and Registered Company Auditor. Villers-Bretonneux. After spending eight years at Deloitte, he recently joined YCG, a Making the Dawn Service even mid-tier firm based in Parramatta, where he specialises in providing more special for the family was audit and advisory services to private businesses, clubs and not- remembering Stuart and Troy’s Great for-profits. Simon continues to live in the Hills District and enjoys Grandfather, Arnold Leslie Newman. spending time with his wife Antoinette and two young boys Benji Arnold fought at Villers-Bretonneux. and Billy. He is also looking forward to welcoming a third addition to He was one of the lucky ones who Stuart & Troy Newman. the family in September this year. returned to Australia.

7 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au ANZAC FEATURE

Phil Hayden - Class of 1961 Phil Hayden is the fourth of five generations of his family to serve as an Australian Combat Soldier. His son Tim, who attended Daramalan College in Canberra, and retired from the Army after 22 years in 2009 is a highly decorated soldier and dedicated International Humanitarian. Phil graduated from the Officer Cadet School (OCS) at Portsea, Vic in June 1966. Allocated to the Royal Australian Infantry Phil was posted to the 1st Battalion of the Pacific Islands Regiment, based in Port Moresby. While serving with the Regiment Phil commanded the 4th Rifle Platoon, completing long range patrols along the Fly River, across the Sarawaged Ranges, in East and West New Britain, in the Popondetta region and in the Admiralty Islands. In 1967, while in Moresby, Phil met up with Cecil Natera (Class of ’62) and in 1968 shared a meal in Rabaul with Mickey Wong (Class of ’62). Phil returned to Australia in 1969 and on promotion to Captain joined the Headquarters of the 1st Australian Task Force in South Vietnam. While serving with the Headquarters Phil bumped into former school mate, Bob Benzi (Class of ‘60), then serving with the Royal Australian Signals Regiment. In October 1970 Phil joined the 2nd Anzac Infantry Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment (RAR) and during extensive combat operations Phil worked with another former ‘Oakhillian’ Paul Jones (Class of ’62) of the Royal Australian Engineers. In 1971 Phil returned to Australia and was posted as Adjutant with the 3rd Infantry Training Battalion at Singleton NSW. While at Singleton Phil encountered an old friend and former College Chaplain Father Barry O’Hearn, then serving as an Army Chaplain. Phil served at Singleton until 1975. In subsequent postings Phil served as; the Mortar Commander with the 8th /9th Infantry Battalion (RAR) in Brisbane, and on overseas duty in Canada; and on promotion to Major as a Rifle Company Commander with the 3rd Infantry Battalion (RAR) in South Australia, and on overseas duty in Malaysia. Phil attended the Army Command and Staff College at Fort Queenscliff, Vic in 1980. In 1981 Phil returned to his ‘Alma Mater’ at OCS Portsea as the Senior Training officer. In the mid 1980s Phil served in Canberra on staff and training appointments at Army Headquarters, at the Royal Military College Duntroon, and after promotion to Lieutenant Colonel, at Defence Headquarters. In 1987, after a 20 year absence, Phil returned to Port Moresby to Command the Australian Defence Force Training and Technical Support Unit. In 1989 Phil ‘dined out’ with the then PNG Minister for Education the Honourable Joseph Aoae (rip Class of 1960). Returning to Australia in early 1990 Phil decided that it was time to settle down and devote more attention to his family; and he retired from the Army in 1993. He went on to create a career in Local Government Management in NSW and Qld. Phil retired from the workforce completely in 2012.

8 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au Anzac Feature

Dr Stephen Kendal - Alumnus of Distinction - Class of 1964 disputes between Greek and Turkish citizens and the UN regarding I was a national serviceman in the Australian Army commencing 27 unlawful activity in the buffer zone. January 1971 to 26 July 1972. My training commenced at Singleton for The experience changed my life in that it was the first time I needed a period of about three months and a further three months of Infantry to personally deal with many deceased persons (including very young corps training at Singleton also. When posted I was located at 5RAR children). One incident remains with me today, where a young Turkish then based in Holsworthy awaiting the strong prospect of serving Cypriot girl who I escorted from the Turkish Hospital to the Greek Hospital overseas in Vietnam which was the military with severe burns from an oil lamp, passed away. I was required to escort conflict of the period but as it turned out I her body back to her grieving family with a Greek death certificate, which was not required to serve overseas. they would not acknowledge or accept. Military life is tough and toughening. We had a great team of Australians attached to the 18th Contingent. It provided a strong reference point for I never found the environment overly difficult and our accommodation in my later adult roles in public service and both the Nicosia Hotel and Auscivpol HQ was of a very high standard for occasionally politics. You have to be able the time. We conducted functions such as the Melbourne Cup race using to get along with everyone in the Army cardboard cut out horses on strings for the race. In those days, there and this is a major skill of great benefit was not such thing as the internet or mobile phones, so we relied on the throughout life. Diplomatic Bag for our letters and waited for a week for the newspapers.” As a result of David’s UN service, he is entitled to full membership David King - Class of 1972 of the RSL. As the only non-member or former member of the ADF in his Last year, 2014, marked the 50th anniversary of the United Nations local RSL Sub Branch, David has held the positions of Honorary Secretary Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus. Australian civilian police have been part of and Vice President. He now has the role of MC at the local Anzac and this mission from May 1964. This role continues today. Remembrance Day Services. David writes: “I was attached to the 18th Australian Contingent from July1981 to June 1982 firstly as a Senior Sergeant and then “field” promoted to Inspector. I was attached to the Canadian Sector in Nicosia from July 1981 to September 1981 escorting patients from the Turkish Hospital (north side) to the Greek Hospital in Nicosia (south side). On many occasions I would be escorting deceased patients back to the Turkish Hospital as the Greek Hospital had limited facilities to treat people at that time. I was also required to investigate fires and criminal damage to property located in the UN buffer zone. On many occasions I negotiated

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9 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au Anzac Feature

Enrico (Ric) Casagrande, CSM - Class of 1974 After leaving Oakhill and completing his studies, Ric had a stint as a country solicitor in the Hunter Valley before joining the RAAF in August 1987 as a military officer and lawyer. He has been very fortunate to serve in a variety of positions around the world both in his specialist field of law and as a general ADF officer. Some of the many highlights have included a stint on exchange with the US Air Force based in the Pentagon for two years doing international law as a JAG; Defence Attaché, Southern Europe based in our embassy in Rome covering Italy, Israel, Turkey and Greece and in his spare time some interesting places like the occupied territories, Egypt, Syria and Libya; active service in Iraq in 2004 based in the Green Zone, Baghdad; working with other military lawyers and the International Red Cross delegates around the world on International Humanitarian Law (Law of Armed Conflict); being the Director of International and Operations Law in the Department of Defence; and the Director of Legal Services and Anthony Thomas - Class of 1990 chief lawyer for the RAAF. Anthony writes: “The time – 2.00pm; the date – 24 April 2015 – a group of One of his proudest moments in service was reading the Ode at the former Army representative rugby players take the field in Turkey or more Lone Pine Service on Gallipoli during Anzac Day 2006. During his career specifically the town of Gallipoli (Gelibolu). The playing of the Turkish and he reached the rank of Group Captain. He transferred from the Permanent Australian National Anthems was followed by the emotive Last Post. The Air Force in 2009 but still has the honour of being able to serve the ADF atmosphere was intense during the game between the Australian Rugby through his reserve service of about one to two months a year while Union Old Boys (Leopards) and the Istanbul Ottomans. The result didn’t based in his home in Vienna, Austria. By far his most impressive highlight really matter (35-5 Army Old Boys). It was more about two extremely is being able to serve with the outstanding women and men of the ADF proud nations battling it out on the rugby pitch to commemorate the and is never ceased to be amazed by their courage, loyalty and devotion Centenary of ANZAC. The Turkish people are extremely welcoming and to the service of our country. respectful of Australians, something that our Ottoman hosts epitomised. Our group was privileged to tour ANZAC Cove and the Gallipoli battlefield site the day prior to the game. As we made our way around the various battlefields and cemeteries we paid graveside tributes to three of the seven Wallabies who paid the ultimate sacrifice at Gallipoli. The scale and impossibility of the task those diggers faced 100 years ago is obvious and confronting. It is impossible to avoid the emotion invoked by rows and rows of headstones or names on a commemorative wall. For me the highlight was the Nek - standing on a patch of pristine grass no bigger than a classroom, underneath hundreds of young ANZACs sent on a senseless and impossible task. The tour was not all about Gallipoli, Centenary of ANZAC or indeed our tribute game of rugby. We visited some amazing places - historic Istanbul, Pergamum, Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary. We had a truly amazing experience in a fantastic country.“

10 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au Anzac Feature

Jeremy Butler - Class of 1981 Jeremy joined the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) in 1982, and after completing training and studies at the Naval College and the University of NSW, he undertook further naval professional training and served in various RAN ships and shore bases. In 1987 he was selected to undergo pilot training with the Royal Australian Air Force. Subsequently specialising in helicopter flying, he then flew a variety of helicopter types including the Sikorsky Seahawk. He saw active service during the 1990/91 Gulf War, which involved three deployments to the Persian Gulf flying such missions as Surface Surveillance, Combat Search and Rescue and Medical Evacuation. In 1994, he went to the United Kingdom on a three year exchange appointment with the Royal Navy. During this time he completed both Basic and Advanced Instructor training and was employed as a flying instructor teaching new helicopter pilots. On return to Australia, he continued in various instructor pilot roles and was then posted as Seahawk Flight Commander in the frigate HMAS NEWCASTLE from 1999-2001, where he saw service in the East Timor Officer HS Blue Crew came before Kevin returned to Sydney and a posting conflict as well as peace keeping operations in the Solomon Islands. In to the Navigation Faculty at HMAS WATSON. 2000, he was awarded a commendation for distinguished performance of In early 2007, Kevin completed the demanding Long Navigation Course duties whilst in East Timor. before being posted as Navigating Officer HMAS STUART. During his two After completing further postgraduate studies, the final posting of his year posting to STUART, Kevin was involved in a six month deployment military career was as a senior flying instructor on the Pilatus PC9 aircraft back to the Middle East Area of Operations, this time conducting direct teaching both Navy and Air Force pilots. protection duties for the Iraqi oilfields located within the Northern Arabian Upon retiring from the Navy as a Lieutenant Commander after 24 Gulf. This deployment saw Kevin visit a variety of interesting and diverse years of service, he went on to be Chief Pilot for a Helicopter Emergency foreign ports including Bahrain, Abu Dhabi and Mumbai. Medical Service based in Melbourne, which specialised in flying critical- In 2009 Kevin returned to the Navigation Faculty in another care babies and very young children from regional hospitals to the large instructional role. After nearly three years in this position Kevin was posted specialist hospitals in the city. He continues to live and work in Melbourne to the Sea Training Group at HMAS KUTTABUL, before departing the Navy and is still involved in aviation as a safety consultant. in late 2012. Kevin took up a position withiin Sydney Ports Corporation before commencing his current role as a Senior Navigation Instructor Kevin Chenney - Class of 1994 with SERCO Defence, training the Maritime Warfare Officers of tomorrow Kevin joined the Royal Australian Navy as a Maritime Warfare Officer in July through simulation at HMAS WATSON. Kevin continues to serve as an Active 2000. Upon joining, Kevin was posted to the New Entry Officers Course Reservist within the Navy. (NEOC) at HMAS CRESWELL, where he undertook the five-month long Kevin lives in the Northern Suburbs of Sydney, has been married for introduction to Naval service. Upon successful completion of that course, seven years and is the proud Dad of two young daughters. Kevin posted to HMAS WATSON for commencement of Seaman Officer training. Over the coming eighteen months, Kevin completed three phases of training, two of which had him serve at sea, including being part of the commissioning crew of HMAS WARRAMUNGA, and then border protection and diplomatic roles aboard Patrol Boats and Landing Craft. Award of his primary qualification came in June 2003 when posted to HMAS MANOORA, upon return of the ship from the Middle East of Operations to the port of Fremantle. The opportunity to consolidate his skills came immediately when the ship was re-tasked to support the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) and the following three months saw him contribute to this significant operation. Next came a posting, after successful completion of the Intermediate Navigation Course, to HMAS BUNBURY as Navigating Officer. This was one of Kevin’s most rewarding and enjoyable postings, seeing him contribute to the protection of Australia’s fishing resources and deploying to the SW Pacific on a deployment. A short stint based out of Cairns as Navigating

11 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au Anzac Feature

Officer and Second in Command. In 2013 John deployed to the Solomon Islands as part of Operation Render Safe; the Australian Defence Force’s operation that aims to safely dispose of World War II-vintage Explosive Remnants of War from South Pacific island nations. John is presently posted to the Headquarters of the Land Warfare Centre, a training establishment, located in the Gold Coast Hinterland, which is responsible for the provision of promotion courses to commissioned and non commissioned officers. John currently lives on the Gold Coast with his wife Natalie (Natalie Tingey 2004). They have a 1 year old daughter, Hannah, and a son due in August.

Patrick Mahony - Class of 2001 Patrick commissioned into the Royal Naval Reserves in 2008. He currently serves as a Lieutenant within the intelligence PQ. He has been posted to ex-HMAS Kanimbla, HMAS Watson (School of Maritime Warfare), HMAS Kuttabul (Maritime Intelligence Support Centre), Defence Intelligence Training Centre (Kokoda Barracks, Canungra) and Joint Health Command. Besides his reserve commitments, Pat works as a solicitor at the Australian Prudential Regulations Authority and teaches legal philosophy and constitutional law at Macquarie University.

John Leathley - Class of 2004 REST IN PEACE John graduated from the Royal Military College – Duntroon in 2007 and Br Finian Allman - 2015 is currently serving at the rank of Captain within the Royal Australian Br Eric Piggott - 2015 Engineer Corps. Upon graduation from the Royal Military College and Army School of Military Engineering, John relocated to Darwin and served in a Thierry Leroy – 2014 (Class of 1976) Combat Engineer Regiment. Whilst posted to Darwin John spent time as Patrick Madek – 2015 (husband of Julie and father of Alex a Troop Commander and training throughout South East Asia with the Class of 2014) Malaysian, Thai and Singapore Armies. In 2009 John was posted to Florida, Michael Kerr – 2015 (Class of 1994) United States, where he studied at the US Explosive Ordnance Disposal John Coates – 2015 (long time staff member 1976-1992) School and graduated as a Bomb Technician. Shortly upon return to Nathan Gremmo – 2015 – Year 8 (beloved son of Kylie and Australia he deployed to Afghanistan with the 1st Mentoring Task Force as Michael Gremmo [Class of 1988]) a High Threat Search Engineer Troop Commander and liaison officer to the Provincial Reconstruction Team, a highlight of his career thus far. Elizabeth Rooney - 2015 (Class of 1978) After his deployment John moved to Brisbane where he served three Kevin Flanagan - 2015 (Class of 1961) years in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Squadron and fulfilled the duties Phil Kemp – 2015 (Class 0f 1948) – first ex-student of Oakhill of the Officer in charge of Training and Certification of Engineer Search to join the De La Salle Brothers and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Teams into Afghanistan, the Operations

12 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au Anzac Feature

a regular part of life in Afghanistan, it’s standard procedure when under rocket attack by the Taliban in Kandahar. The rockets missed that night, but just a few weeks before scraped the sides of the Australian barracks. It was the best laughs I got at that show. Thanks Taliban, because of your bombs, I didn’t bomb. That was one of the more memorable experiences from my trip to Afghanistan for Forces Entertainment. It was 2011 when I went, I’m glad I did - to give a little something to a bunch of people who find themselves giving so much, whether they had planned to or not. Many from the “College of Knowledge” have served Australia’s defence forces overseas. Two of my brothers, who also served in Iraq and Timor (Matt Class of 1992), and Afghanistan (Nick Class of 2001). I felt compelled to serve in my own very small way. We did five shows in ten days across Afghanistan and the Middle East - Kandahar, Tarin Kot, Kabul, Dubai. I went to Afghanistan as a comedian, but I had a friend at Oakhill who also served in Afghanistan. He was funnier and more subversive than I could ever have been, he was also a wonderful Australian. I remember on Photo Day in Year 11, he tried to get his photo taken with a pocket square in his blazer pocket with the word “Republican” written across the top. When he was told to take it out, he went on one of the most hilarious tirade about how the Queen was repressing his life at Oakhill College. He had a wonderful moral core that drove his humour in hilarious and cutting ways. I’m sure that it was this sense of justice that Daniel Ilic - Class of 1999 inspired Jason Brown to sign up to the most elite fighting force in Daniel was House Captain of Benildus in 1999. Since he left school, the world. Jason was killed in Afghanistan. I think about him often, Daniel has forged a career in Television, Radio and Comedy. Dan is and what a hilarious bloke he would have been today. currently Senior Satire Producer for Al Jazeera’s digital platform I’m lucky, in that rarely my job drives me into such dangerous AJ+. You can follow his work on twitter@DanIlic or facebook.com/ situations. But like many who join the defence force, I don’t see danilic my job, as a job. Comedy is a compulsion. Later on this year, I’ll be Daniel writes: “When the alarm goes off at 3am, “Responsibility” returning to Afghanistan for Dateline on SBS, and I’ll be returning and “Privilege” are not the words that come to mind. The only words to 702 Sydney to do two more weeks of breakfast. Both jobs are my brain can muster are ”Tired” and “Coffee.” terrifying in their own unique way. On and off for the last couple of years, I’ve been filling in on the Afternoon program on 702 ABC Sydney. This morning however, was different. This was “Breakfast”, the radio time slot as opposed to, breakfast, the most important meal of the day. In radioland “Breakfast” is considered the most important programme of the day. Radio theory suggests if a network can win the “Breakfast” time slot, they’ll win the rest of the day. Radio theory also suggests that people only listen to radio for 20 minutes at a time, you do the math (sic). But this morning, it was Ilic’s turn. When you work for the ABC you quickly realise what a privilege it is. The country is effectively giving you permission to arm them with information for their day; and when you’re in that seat you’re simultaneously conveying information and reflecting the city back to itself, if the city is excited, you can be excited, if the city is wet, you’ll be wet. It’s kind of like winding up a rubber band each morning and letting it loose for a few hours. The kind of fast paced broadcasting that I had always aspired to be able to do. But it wasn’t the strangest gig of my life. The strangest gig of my life had me lying down on my stomach talking into a dusty microphone, in a country Contiki tours don’t go to...yet. “What Do I Do Now?” I squeak into the microphone. “Keep going” a nonchalant voice yells from the courtyard filled with 80 other young Australian soldiers all lying down on their stomachs, so I continued doing my “stand up” material... lying down. This is

13 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au Anzac Feature

1941 Towards the end of 1941 The National Emergency Authorities requested that the college be taken over as a temporary hospital. The boys were transferred to St Bernard’s College Katoomba. This order was rescinded a month later, as was the Army requisition order of 1942, but the transfer of the seniors was still carried through and Oakhill was conducted for a time as a Junior Boarding College.

1953 Oakhill passed the hundred mark in 1953. This was the beginning of a new era of building and reconstruction. Excavations began in the middle of the year for a new block – the primary building – now the Adrian Building. Work had progressed by April 1954 for the laying of the foundation stone by Archbishop Romulo Carboni, then Apostolic Delegate for Australia, and a past pupil of our Brothers in Italy. This was an important day in the history of the College. Almost 2,000 boys from De La Salle Schools in Sydney marched and several parents and friends were present. It Adam Potter - Class of 2005 and Beau Potter - Class of 2010 was fitting that the ceremony took place on ANZAC Day, as Adam graduated from Oakhill in 2005 and enlisted in the Army Reserves this section of the college was built to honour the war dead in 2006. He joined the Australian Regular Army in 2010, attended the Royal among De La Salle Alumni in Australia. Military College, Duntroon and was commissioned in 2011. Lieutenant Adam Potter is now serving in the 6th Aviation Regiment based at 1962 Holsworthy NSW. After graduating from Oakhill in 2010 Beau joined the Australian The College Cadet Unit was formed and was a very popular Regular Army. He is currently serving in the 3rd Combat Service Support extra-curricular activity until the Federal Government ceased Battalion based at Lavarack Barracks in Townsville, Qld. funding cadet units in 1975. The photos in our ANZAC Feature are from the Oakhill College Cadet Unit over the years.

1969/70 In 1969 The Fathers’ Association’s ambitious plan for an auditorium/gymnasium was commenced. Benildus Hall was completed in June 1970. The College Cadet Band enjoyed success in this year also. They had won the 1969 A Grade competition at the Waratah Festival and went on to win the A Grade competition at Singleton. In addition Drum Major John Elliot (Class of 1970) won the special Drum Major Award.

A glimpse from the past – Early Days by Br Amedy “When the war came to Australia some of the older boarders were caught up in it and did not return from Papua New Guinea. One of the first senior boarders, Daryl Cohen, was awarded a special medal for the number of flights he made in bombing raids over Germany”.

14 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au Nicole Collins, Samuel, Phillip Collins, Cheryl, David, Melinda Parker, Lincoln Parker.

“You see in my mind, nothing that I have done in my lifetime in a given the chance to try to help others through my life experiences.” voluntary capacity is extraordinary. Rather through my faith and David’s association with the De La Salle Brothers and Oakhill College upbringing it has been more like an expectation on myself to help has spanned over twenty three years. wherever I was needed.” After returning from New York and settling into the Hills, David and Cheryl’s daughter Melinda (Class of 1994) was enrolled at Oakhill. hese words were addressed to Family, Friends, Brothers and The other children soon followed – Nicole (Class of 1998) and Phillip other specially invited guests by David Collins as he accepted (Class of 2002). David spent many hours at the College in those days T becoming an Affiliated Member of the De La Salle Brothers. The coaching basketball teams. In 2006, David was invited by Br Chris ceremony was held in the Chapel of Saint John Baptist de La Salle on Gorringe, the Principal at the time, to join the Oakhill College Advisory Friday 24 April followed by a celebratory Dinner in the Centenary Sports Board. After the College was incorporated David served on the College Centre Foyer. Affiliation is quite a rare honour. Those afforded “letters of Board, being the Chair of the Board from 2012 to 2014. During his time affiliation” have demonstrated, over time, active support of the work of of service at Oakhill David managed to work with four Principals! The the Brothers, not only financially or materially but also through personal final words from David: “I would like to think that Cheryl and I have commitment. They have also demonstrated interest of great admiration now been able to pass on the baton to our own children. Through our for Lasallian spirituality. David’s words echo those of our Australian guidance and example together with their own Lasallian education and Saint, Mary MacKillop who said, “Never see a need without doing experience at Oakhill College, hopefully they will continue to remember something about it.” As David said, “I have been fortunate to have been to use their talents and work for others as part of God’s family.”

15 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au he Oakhill Old Boys cricket team operated from 1976 to 1996. After much prevarication and planning, the date was set T as April 18; the place, the Baulkham Hills Sporting Club, the venue for many a post match discussion in days of yore. In the end we had 25 attend, slightly down on expectation but a good crowd nonetheless. The award for furthest distance travelled went to Dom Kennedy, who few in that morning from LA into the Gold Coast, then down to Sydney. The jet lag took its toll but a great effort Dom. There were seven members of our first premiership winning team from 79/80 season – Craig Dwyer, Steve Youngman, Nick Creagh, David Creagh, Mark Beverly, Con Staff and Tony Kennedy, which was a great effort. Also some great memorabilia on display. Some L to R: Tim Kennedy, Steve Youngman, Pat Dwyer, Brian Gallard, Dave pristine premiership winning caps, still in their plastic bags, various Creagh, John Campo, Todd Day, Daryl Vella, Paul Evinden, Greg Plummer, Mark Beverly, Con Staff, Craig Dwyer, Nick Creagh, Tony Kennedy, Tony caps from different eras, bats and hattrick balls. Curt Pahl takes the Hord, Tim Caffrey, Dan Kennedy, David Graham, Dom Kennedy, Peter award for bringing his Tony Greig inspired century scoring bat that Loudon. In attendance: Curt Pahl, Guy Oakes, Br David Zande. was framed, incorporating the score sheet for the innings. A special mention to Br David Zande who found time to make it. Notably Tim memories embellishing performances from the past. The numbers Caffrey is still playing, having been rung into his son’s team. Tim only never lie. If you would like a copy of the stats and couldn’t make the get plays when there is no surf - times haven’t changed. Brian Gallard together, email [email protected] too is still darkening the crease as well. The rest of us having hung Many thanks to Craig Dwyer, Steve Youngman and Eric Scheeren up the pads many years ago. for the organisation. The plan is that we will have another get together The most talked about item were the great statistical records next year to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the first ever season of provided by Steve Youngman, dating right back to the first season. old boys cricket, way back in 1976. Of course the problem with the stats is that they prevent the fading Look forward to seeing you there.

16 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au Back Row L to R: Marty Carey, Tim Bayfield, Gerard Abrams, Kevin McGrath, Steve Blood, Dave Parsons, Colin Roden, Mark Emanuel, Chris Morris. Front Row L to R: Peter Bevan, Paul Hagan, Robert Mudge, Peter Mudge, John Floyd.

small group from the Class of 1975 gathered at the Castle Hill exaggeration! Many of the names of the Brothers and Teachers were RSL Club for a great night of sharing and story-telling. Some remembered – mostly with fond affection! A number of the members A of those present had travelled long distances including Peter of the Class of 75 couldn’t make it to the Reunion. However, the Bevan (Banora Point) and Kevin McGrath (Bombla) to be present messages sent reflect the “closeness” of this group of men, some of for the Reunion. There was a very relaxed atmosphere in the room whom have continued the tradition with the graduation of their sons as the stories were told with much humour and perhaps a little and daughters at Oakhill College.

Mark Emmanuel & Peter Bevan. Tim Bayfield, John Floyd, Gerard Abrams, Kevin McGrath.

Oakhill Golf Day 2015 Riverside Oaks Golf Club Friday 14th August 2015 18 hole game at Riverside Oaks GOLF & LUNCH: $135.00 – Team Ambrose Format … includes golf game, lunch & cart. LUNCH ONLY: $30.00 (Lunch will be from 1:30pm) LOTS OF GREAT PRIZES! Sponsorship packages: $1,000.00 RSVP by Friday, 7th August 2015. For further information (4 rounds of golf, lunch, carts contact David Reckless 0409 913 367 [email protected] and advertising).

17 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au L-R: Ramon Barros, Tony Caruso, Peter Carr, Garth Cootes, John Flint, Les Kirkpatrick, Michael Dowd, Bayne Kelly, Lou Miranda, Brian Russell (College Captain 1965), Hayden Kelly, Denis Callahan, Silvano D’Ambrosio.

n March 28, 2015 the College hosted the reunion for the based on tomatoes. The word was that the Brothers took advantage Leaving Class of 1965. This was attended by about 15 Old of an oversupply of cheap tomatoes that year and tried to foist them OBoys for whom this was a significant occasion representing onto the boys! Another tale concerned hair inspections – regularly 50 years since their school days. Many had travelled from country there was a hair inspection of the boarders and more often than not centres, from interstate and even from overseas. you were sent to the barber whether you needed a haircut or not. With memories stretching back half a century, old friendships Michael Dowd’s story of his arrival at the College was truly amazing. were rekindled and forgotten stories were revisited. Speeches were A special feature of the afternoon was the presence of Oakhill former delivered by the College Captain of 1965, Brian Russell, and from teacher, Brother Christopher, now known as Les Kirkpatrick. Les spoke Alumnus of Distinction recipient, Bayne Kelly. Both men spoke with warmly of his Oakhill days marked by hard but rewarding work. It was quiet dignity about the importance of the College in their early lives. uplifting to see these Old Boys hold Les in such respect half a century on. Silvano D’Ambrosio recalled the Great Tomato Revolt whereby John Baptist de La Salle would be impressed by the quiet dignity, the boarders went on a temporary hunger strike after the tenth meal the achievements and the moral integrity of the Class of 1965.

Bayne Kelly, Lou Miranda & Damian Asprey. Les Kirkpatrick and Heather Muirhead. Hayden & Bayne Kelly 1958.

18 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au chance meeting in 2010 led to a decision to find as many Oakhill students from the 1950-60 era with a view to having A a reunion. Pat Donoghue and Denis Castrission, over many months, searched for these students with quite some success. In 2011, some sixteen old Oakhillians and their partners met at the College during the 75th Anniversary celebrations. After inspecting the most impressive campus and perusing some very interesting photos and memorabilia, we adjourned to Castle Hill for a social afternoon. It was decided to have an annual get together and this year will be our 5th Reunion. We had the pleasure of the company of Back Row L-R: Tom Geczy, Eric Maronese, Roger Ibbott, Ron Lucas, Pat Donoghue, Bob Golding, Andrew Geczy, Denis Castrission. the Director of Professional Learning, Damian Asprey and College Front Row L-R: John Gorringe, Alex Masszauer, Stephen Hunyor, Jim Archivist Heather Muirhead in 2014 who enlightened us with many Collins, Bill Darwen Absent: Vic Brain, Tony Appino, Alex Hunyor, Athol Peden, Skip Ryper, unknown facts and gaps in our history of Oakhill. The 1950-60’s era Willie Quan. has been referred to as the “Golden Years” With only 85 students, many distinguished themselves in diverse areas: Medicine, Law, Engineering, Pharmacy and Business saw many Oakhillians from the area gain distinction. Bill Darwen (1955) Dr Alex Hunyor (1956) and Prof Stephen Hunyor (1957) are all Alumni of Distinction. We cordially invite all Oakhill students of the era to join us again on August 15th 2015 for our annual get together. Contact Denis Castrission on [email protected] for details.

Memories – Pat Donoghue – Class of 1956 In the Fifties there was no swimming pool, sports fields, MYSTERY PHOTO beautiful and well-constructed classrooms and facilities that are available now for the students. Our school consisted of three Can you identify the people in this photo? fibro classrooms, a toilet block and a two-storey building which A prize will be awarded to the person who is the first served as the dormitory. There were only sixty students and we to correctly name them. Send entries to Br Raymond Kahn at the College all ate together, played together and got up at 6.00 a.m. for Mass or email [email protected] every single morning. We were taught by the De la Salle Brothers The winner of the last competition – Volume 31 – and the Brothers had a very successful farming enterprise with was Stephen Sippel (Class of 1972) a huge dairy herd, pig breeding, chickens and orchards. I am (Thanks for all the other correct entries) grateful to this day for the education I received from the Brothers (NB: College staff are ineligible to enter this competition!) at Oakhill. CASTLE HILL (02) 9894 1133 4/27 Victoria Avenue, Castle Hill, NSW 2154 (Behind the Castle Hill Tavern) Email: [email protected] Log Book Servicing Blue Slip Inspections All Mechanical Repairs All Auto Electrical Services Brake, Steering & Suspension Air Conditioning Services & Repairs Rego Inspections Fleet Services & Maintenance

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20 THE OAKHILL DRIVE – Volume 32 | July 2015 | www.oakhillcollege.com.au