THE ANNUAL REVIEW 2017 ANNUAL REVIEW FOR THE COMMUNITY OF ST JOHN’S COLLEGE CONTENTS

Some 2017 highlights 3

Student leadership 2017 4

House Committee 6

Cultural Renewal Project 7

Banding together to make a difference 8

The Sir Earle Page Scholarship 10

Dr David Daintree AM 12

Archbishop’s Mass and Dinner 13

Capital works program 14

Financial summary 15

Peace Stone visit 20

Johnsmen’s Association 20

St John’s College Foundation 22

Riding the steppes of Genghis Kahn 24

Donors 2017 25

Valete 26

Cover: Archbishop’s Dinner, 15 August 2017

2 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 SOME 2017 HIGHLIGHTS

rom being selected to represent Australia at international sporting Fmeets to consistently achieving high academic results, St John’s College students in 2017 excelled across academics, cultural endeavours and sport.

ACADEMIC CULTURAL SPORTING

Haswell Brooke – SJC 2017 to current Kyah Gray – SJC 2014-2017

Haswell achieved the highest academic Kyah was named in the Australian Women’s Indoor Hockey Team to compete at the 5th results in the College in 2017. Felix Wallis – SJC 2017 to current Indoor Hockey World Cup in Berlin, Germany Dinuka Perera – SJC 2015-2017 Felix performed in three Palladian intercollege in February 2018. events as well as two St John’s events - Lights Dinuka achieved a high distinction average on the Lawn and Arts of Gold - on double across all subjects of his Bachelor of Science bass and piano. (Advanced)/Doctor of Medicine, dual degree.

Callum Ryan – SJC 2012-2014

Callum was awarded the University Medal and achieved First Class Honours in Film Studies.

Matthew Millikin – SJC 2016-2018

Matthew represented Australia at the World Junior B Curling Championships in December 2017 and was Vice-Captain of the Australian team.

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 3 STUDENT LEADERSHIP 2017

House Committee 2017

HOUSE PRESIDENT HOUSE SECRETARY HOUSE TREASURER Nicholas Harrison William Davids Patrick McDonnell

CULTURAL SECRETARY INTERCOL DELEGATE INTERCOL DELEGATE Annie Tonkin Declan Martin Gabrielle Scullin

RAWSON SECRETARY ROSEBOWL SECRETARY SOCIAL SECRETARY Jack Murphy Annobel Starr Abbey Vines

4 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 STUDENT LEADERSHIP 2017

Student Pastoral Team 2017

SUB-DEAN SUB-DEAN RESIDENT ASSISTANT RESIDENT ASSISTANT Madelyn Picone Patrick Schnelle Hugh Courts Madeleine Magrath

RESIDENT ASSISTANT RESIDENT ASSISTANT RESIDENT ASSISTANT RESIDENT ASSISTANT Alexandra Moore Heloise Payne Amos Potter Catherine Zheng

CORRIDOR CORRIDOR CORRIDOR CORRIDOR REPRESENTATIVE REPRESENTATIVE REPRESENTATIVE REPRESENTATIVE Bridgette Hynes Mark Perri Nicholas Pettit Eleanor Schwager

CORRIDOR REPRESENTATIVE Zijan (Tiger) Yang

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 5 HOUSE COMMITTEE

L to R - Patrick McDonnell (Treasurer), Nicholas Harrison (President) and William Davids (Secretary).

ll students have the opportunity to leadership to the student body, to strengthen four different sports throughout the year. Adevelop leadership qualities in their a culture that is respectful, safe and inclusive. Overall sportswoman of the year was Maddie time at St John’s. Together with the Pastoral The House Committee commissioned a Lyons, who participated in four Rosebowl Team and other student leaders, the House Student Club Statement of Values, outlining sports and made exceptional sporting Committee works to advance community life principles that all students are expected to contributions in the past two years of college. within the College. Formed in 1891, the St adhere to. Sportsman of the year was Matt Millikin, John’s College Student Club is governed by who participated in four Rawson sports and The 2017 social calendar, organised by Social its own constitution and is led by the House also contributed well in the past two years Secretary Abbey Vines, was filled with events. Committee, offering valuable leadership representing the College. The Palladian Highlights of the social calendar included opportunities to members of this team of Dance team won the Intercol Championship, the “Triple O’ Week” where 115 Freshers students. The role of House Committee for the second time in the past three years, an were welcomed into College community members is to: incredible achievement. The women’s hockey life, along with Grooves on a Grassy Knoll and netball teams played exceptionally well be representatives of the student body of showcasing Australia’s emerging musical • and our men competed admirably across the the College; talent. Intercol Delegates, Gabrielle Scullin Rawson Cup competition with a number of act as leaders; and Declan Martin, represented St John’s in • strong performances in football and cricket. • model the culture and attitude that is significant intercol governance discussions expected of the student body; and consolidated our collaboration and The House Committee is elected by the • work collaboratively with the Rector and partnership with the University of Sydney. students at the end of each academic year. staff of the College; Sports Secretaries, Annobel Starr and Jack The House Executive meets regularly with the • assist in maintaining the good order of Murphy, and Cultural Secretary, Annie Tonkin, Rector and staff and the House Committee the College; and are especially to be congratulated for their meets to discuss and organise the Club’s • organise and encourage participation in dedication and leadership in rallying the cultural, sporting and social activities, which social, cultural and sporting events within College community. The diversity of talent are inclusive, numerous and vibrant. College and between the Colleges. amongst our students again shone throughout 2017. Nicholas Harrison The 2017 House Executive, Nick Harrison William Davids (President), Will Davids (Secretary) and Fresher sportspeople of the year were Sam Patrick McDonnell Patrick McDonnell (Treasurer) provided Swann and Lara Dillon, both of whom played

6 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 CULTURAL RENEWAL PROJECT

ince 2012 the College has been direction on expected behaviour including Since 2012 St John’s College has undertaken Sengaging closely with students to identify zero tolerance for harassment and sexual important actions and initiatives including: and implement initiatives which support misconduct. • Development of a College-wide risk inclusiveness, safety and wellbeing, and framework and risk management policies which encourage greater diversity within the Students were actively involved in the and procedures College community. Broderick Project and the College fully • Engaging with students as both sources accepted and endorsed the Report’s and managers of risk This approach recognises the importance recommendations. St John’s has worked • Additional resources for professionally of ongoing engagement with students as closely with the University and other colleges qualified staff in a well-structured Student agents of change on key issues. The goals throughout this process. Life Team are to eliminate unacceptable behaviours • Enhancement of peer support networks such as harassment and bullying, and to The Broderick Report proposed 23 centred on trained Resident Assistants manage potentially risky practices including recommendations to the University and • Delivery of education programs for all alcohol consumption. Specialised education colleges which covered the areas of students on sexual misconduct, alcohol, programs have been fundamental in Wellbeing & Safety and Student Culture. drugs and respectful relationships supporting these conversations with students. • Providing clear reporting pathways for Guidance issued by the Tertiary Education students to access staff support and The Broderick Project in 2017 was an Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) external referrals. opportunity to identify areas for further provides a framework for delivering improvement, and the Project Report improvements in wellbeing and safety through confirmed the direction and actions the specific initiatives covering: College has been taking on these matters • Risk assessments and controls since 2012. These include the implementation • Advice to students of significant changes to Fresher Week and • Prevention education programs the development of policies, published in • Support for affected students the Student Handbook, which provide clear • Incident response.

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 7 BANDING TOGETHER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

SMASHING THE STIGMA OF MENTAL HEALTH

Raising awareness of the importance of us to “smash the stigma” around mental raffle prizes that helped us make this night mental health issues was the goal of the health by talking openly about our own such a success.” annual student-run Lights on the Lawn event experiences. “Our partnership with BDI will continue in held on 19 May 2017. “It’s great to see St John’s stepping up 2018 and we hope to raise even more to With over 250 students attending from to support the Black Dog Institute”, said support this worthy cause”. across the intercol community, the night was Jackson. “This event is a great example of Guests were treated to musical performances a major success. Due to wet weather, the how young people can contribute to mental from John’s and intercol students. event was held in the Tower Vestibule but health awareness”. students didn’t let this dampen their spirits, The Lights on the Lawn event is a student “The student body elected to support BDI as with approximately $7,000 raised for the Black organised and run event, with over 45 John’s youth mental health is an important issue for Dog Institute. students on the committee or volunteering on many of our students”, said Charity Secretary, the night. Evan Jackson, former Wesley Senior Lachlan Pickering. “Raising this much money Student and representative from the Black has been a combined community effort. We Dog Institute, spoke to students about his would like to thank the local businesses, experiences with depression and encouraged students and their families for donating the

8 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 BANDING TOGETHER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

JOINING WITH VINNIES TO HELP THE HOMELESS

Helping the disadvantaged and less fortunate College volunteers were led by third year Sydney Vinnies Van Services Coordinator, is a top priority for many students at St John’s. student, Adam Ryan, who was also a Resident Ms Gemma Cameron. “Sydney Night Patrol Assistant at the College. “It was my privilege began with a group of young people, Students from St John’s have been to lead a team that greatly enjoyed an committed to serving their community and volunteering for the St Vincent De Paul’s amazing year of service, giving back to some responding to the challenge of homelessness Sydney Night Patrol, a service which delivers much deserving and oft maligned members in Sydney. All these years later, it is great meals, blankets, toiletries and companionship of our society. Whilst it is a small service, the to see the students of St John’s College to people at risk of homelessness within the clients are always appreciative of a hot drink continuing the tradition. Our young volunteers Sydney area, for many years. especially in the colder months. provide a vibrancy and enthusiasm, while still maintaining respect and empathy to our In 2017, 28 students from St John’s “We also enjoy staying and chatting with the service users.” volunteered for the Vinnie’s Night Patrol clients. It is a small commitment that we make organised by the St Vincent de Paul Society, every 4 weeks, but the genuine connections & demonstrating the outstanding commitment joy make it a very rewarding experience.” to charity and service that exists within the College. St John’s ran the Monday night patrol “Sydney Night Patrol has been operating for bus every 4 weeks, visiting two locations over 50 years and our service is only possible within the inner Sydney area each trip. thanks to the dedication and hard work of the volunteers who are out there every night”, said

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 9 THE SIR EARLE PAGE SCHOLARSHIP

new scholarship was added to the are encouraged to submit applications as Awide range of scholarships awarded to early as possible. Scholarships and bursaries deserving students residing at St John’s. are made possible through the generosity of former students, the College Council and The Sir Earle Page Memorial Trust established other community benefactors. a $5,000 scholarship for a St John’s student who resides outside the Sydney area and St John’s offers generous assistance to demonstrates sporting prowess. To be eligible students who, for reasons of financial need, for the scholarship, the student needs to meet would not otherwise be able to enter or remain the following attributes: in College.

• First or second year student at the University of Sydney • Australian citizenship • Home address outside of the Sydney metropolitan area • Actively engaged in sporting pursuits

The scholarship is named after Sir Earle Christmas Grafton Page (1880–1961) who Portrait of Sir Earle Page | The Falk Studios was a federal parliamentarian and founder Source: National Library of Australia. of the Country Party, which eventually became The Nationals. He briefly served as the eleventh Prime Minister of Australia in 1939. With 41 years and 361 days in Parliament, he is the third-longest serving federal parliamentarian in Australian history, behind only William (Billy) Hughes and Philip Ruddock.

The College currently offers up to $500,000 in scholarships, bursaries and prizes each year. Numerous opportunities are available for new and returning students. Prospective students

10 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 THE SIR EARLE PAGE SCHOLARSHIP

orga Attard is the inaugural recipient of assistance provided by the Sir Earle Page Islands during high school. During this trip Jthe Sir Earle Page Scholarship. She is scholarship. I have just completed my first I witnessed health care and conditions so currently studying a Bachelor of Nursing at semester and can already report that my poor and since then it has become my goal the University of Sydney. academics are off to a convincing start. to travel back to the Solomon Islands and develop a rural healthcare clinic. What motivated you to apply for the This is a difficult, long and expensive journey. scholarship? However, the generous support of the What advice would you give to prospective scholarship has already been a great help, students thinking of applying to St John’s? I felt slightly apprehensive about how high much appreciated by my parents as well as the calibre of the recipient would be to St John’s offers ample opportunities and myself. receive this scholarship. However, through support for students welcomed into the researching the life and works of Sir Earl Through support from this scholarship, I can College. Here, your experience is what Page, I found myself making links between continue funding my residency at St John’s. I you make it, so it is important to take Page’s interests and my own, such as health have also reduced my part time employment each opportunity for personal growth and care and treatment for the less fortunate, hours from two work places to one, allowing happiness with two hands and an open which became my motivation to apply for the me to have more time for my studies and mind. I feel challenged yet supported, fully scholarship. fully commit to College initiatives, as well accepted as my true self, and like a valued as several community-based volunteer part of something great at John’s. St. John’s I believed the recipient would have to be programs. has become a home away from home for me; one who follows in the footsteps of Sir Earl I have no doubt in saying that it will continue Page. He believed in the importance of being After completing my Bachelor of Nursing to be so for many generations to come. dedicated to a cause and his scholarship (Advanced Studies) degree, I plan to continue would allow me to achieve my goals. my studies and complete a postgraduate medical degree and take my skills to regional How has the scholarship benefitted you? Australian communities, and eventually, overseas. My lifelong dream of attending university to develop healthcare related skills is being Helping disadvantaged communities became achieved thanks to the generous financial a passion for me after a trip to the Solomon

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 11 DR DAVID DAINTREE AM

ormer Rector, David Daintree, was made Fa Member in the General Division of the Order of Australia in the 2017 Queen’s Birthday Honours List. Dr Daintree was recognised for his service to education, particularly to tertiary colleges and as a scholar.

Dr Daintree was Principal of Jane Franklin Hall from 1984 until 2002 and served as Rector of St John’s from 2002 to 2008.

From 2008 until 2012, David was President of Campion College Australia and since 2013 he served as Director of the Christopher Dawson Centre for Cultural Studies. David is also Director of Odyssey Travel and President of the Advisory Board at Aquinas College Nashville, USA.

12 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 ARCHBISHOP’S MASS AND DINNER

n 15 August 2017, the Archbishop of Sydney and Visitor of the College, the OMost Reverend Anthony Fisher OP, celebrated Mass and delivered a memorable speech to St John’s students, College Fellows and invited guests at the annual Archbishop’s Dinner.

In his opening remarks Rector Adrian Diethelm said, “It is fortuitous that this Annual Dinner is being held on the great feast of the Assumption of Our Lady, which has given us the opportunity to have the Archbishop offer Mass tonight in honour of the Mother of God.”

Mr Diethelm said, “Institutionally, the College’s connection with the Church has several manifestations. One is the requirement that the College’s governing body have a number of Catholic priests as members – these Wright, President of the NSW Civil and are the clerical Fellows, some of whom are Administrative Tribunal and Judge of the present here tonight. Another is the provision Supreme Court; Dr Michael Casey, Australian that the Catholic Archbishop of Sydney is ex Catholic University; and Dr John Carmody, officio the Visitor of the College. President of the Australian Catholic Historical “The College was established in 1858 to be Society. a beacon of Catholic intellectual life in the The College is proud of its Catholic foundation colony of NSW, a living demonstration of the and strives to foster the intellectual and commitment of the Catholic Church to the spiritual growth of its students. pursuit of truth, to high standards of inquiry and debate, and support for the establishment of the new University of Sydney.”

Other special guests in attendance included Reverend Dr Ivan Head, Warden of St Paul’s College; Dr Iain McGilchrist, Fellow of All Souls College Oxford; Hon Justice Robertson

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 13 CAPITAL WORKS PROGRAM

n 2017, the College invested a total of $2m in capital works. This was Works towards the conversion of Brennan Hall to the new Nagle Library Ifunded by income generated from College operations. commenced in 2017. All works related to the Nagle Library are funded Major works included: by the Nagle Bequest. • Renovation of the bathrooms at the western end of levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the Polding Wing. • Conversion of the laundry on Polding 4 to a bathroom. • Renovation of the two Polding Wing kitchenettes. • Completion of air conditioning in the Rector’s Corridor offices, Tower Room, Vaughan Room and Academic Centre. • Completion of the stonework restoration (including one chimney) to the Main Building east elevation (Lemongrove side). • Refurbishment of the Junior Common Room. • Installation of twenty lockers in the Wardell Wing top corridor area for non-resident students. • Upgrade of commercial car park equipment including boom gates, automated pay stations and CCTV cameras as a result of changes in car park management. • Commencement of Stage 2 Master Plan works that will result in the following: a. Conversion of the Polding attic to create six new student bedrooms, common room with kitchenette, airconditioning of these new rooms, two bathrooms (male and female) and fire stairs on the western side connecting Polding 5 to Polding 4.

b. New layout at the northern end of Top Corridor in the Main Building resulting in the creation of three new student bedrooms, a common room, two tutorial rooms, improved music room, kitchenette, and airconditioning in these spaces.

c. Fire safety and security improvements throughout the Main Building including new fire doors, smoke detectors, magnetic door hold units, fire rated glass over windows, and an Emergency Warning and Intercommunication System (EWIS).

14 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 FINANCIAL SUMMARY A. ST JOHN’S COLLEGE OPERATING ACCOUNT i. Statement of Income

2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Revenue 8,677 7,329 1,349 18% Expenses (6,940) (6,107) (834) (14%) Surplus before impairment of capital WIP 1,737 1,222 515 42% Impairment of capital WIP - (1,080) 1,080 100% Surplus after impairment of capital WIP 1,737 142 1,596 1,127%

Revenue 2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Student residential fees 6,382 5,975 407 7% Other accommodation and functions income 403 496 (93) (19%) Lease income and parking fees 1,674 752 922 123% Interest income 113 91 23 25% Sundry 105 15 89 594% Total revenue 8,677 7,329 1,349 18%

Expenses 2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Accommodation costs 2,309 2,135 (174) (8%) Depreciation 618 596 (23) (4%) Employment related costs 1,953 1,720 (233) (14%) Facilities costs 648 503 (145) (29%) Utilities and rates 246 216 (30) (14%) Other expenses 1,166 937 (229) (24%)

Total expenses 6,940 6,107 (834) (14%)

ii. Statement of Financial Position 2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Current assets 4,433 3,806 627 16% Non-current assets 96,048 94,572 1,476 2% Total assets 100,482 98,379 2,103 2% Current liabilities 1,288 947 341 36% Non-current liabilities 500 474 26 5% Net assets 98,694 96,957 1,737 2% Retained earnings 27,244 25,506 1,737 7% Reserve 71,451 71,451 - 0% Total equity 98,694 96,957 1,737 2%

Net assets increased in 2017 by 2% or $1.7m, mainly due to increase in non-current assets resulting from investment in capital expenditure during the year.

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 15 iii. Capital Expenditure The College’s capital works program totalled $2m in 2017. A significant portion of this total investment (76%) was spent on building improvements and repairs to the fabric of the heritage building. 2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Heritage Building improvements1 767 654 114 17% Equipment, furniture and fittings - - - 0%

Operation Building improvements2 3 238 (235) (-99%) Equipment, furniture and fittings 345 71 274 384%

Student Building improvements3 811 68 744 1100% Equipment, furniture and fittings 89 63 26 42%

Total capital expenditure 2,015 1,093 922 84%

1 2017 capital expenditure under Heritage consists of sandstone works (379K) and air conditioning works (235K) carried out in the Main Building. 2 2017 capital expenditure under Operations includes new equipment/ machines in the commercial carpark (282K). 3 2017 capital expenditure under Students includes renovation of kitchenettes and bathrooms in Polding and 38 Wings (771K).

B. ENDOWMENT FUND ACCOUNT Donations and bequests are held separately in either the Endowment Fund or St Johns College Foundation Trust. These funds are used to support the College’s scholarship and capital programs and invested in a professionally managed portfolio.

i. Statement of Income 2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Revenue 1,090 840 250 30% Expenses (168) (193) 25 13% Surplus 922 647 275 43%

Revenue 2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Income from investments 744 578 166 29% Donations and bequests 346 262 84 32% Total revenue 1,090 840 250 30%

Expenses 2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Scholarships expense* 115 147 32 22% Other expense 53 46 (7) (14%)

Total expenses 168 193 25 13%

*In addition to the scholarships funded by the Endowment Fund, the College also funds scholarships and bursaries from its operating income (2017: $264k; 2016: $123k)

16 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 ii. Statement of Financial Position 2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Current assets 881 991 (110) (11%) Non-current assets 7,328 5,924 1,404 24% Total assets 8,209 6,915 1,294 19% Current liabilities 384 12 372 2966%

Net assets 7,825 6,903 922 13% Retained earnings 7,825 6,903 922 13%

Total equity 7,825 6,903 922 13%

Current assets relate to cash and cash equivalents and other receivables, while non-current assets represent financial investments. iii. Endowment Fund Components

Building & Scholarships Library Heritage Sub-Fund Sub-Fund Sub-Fund Total Fund $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Opening Balance 3,145 3,529 229 6,903 Share of income 181 193 15 389 Share of expenses (25) (26) (2) (53)

157 167 13 336 Specific donations & bequests 300 5 41 346 Share of market movement 165 176 13 355 Grants made (115) - - (115)

Surplus for the year 507 348 67 922 Closing balance 3,652 3,877 296 7,825

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 17 C. ST JOHN’S COLLEGE FOUNDATION

i. Statement of Income

2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Revenue 155 43 112 260% Expenses (68) (8) (59) -713% Surplus 87 35 53 152%

Revenue 2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Income from investments 151 25 126 514% Donations and bequests 4 18 (14) (80%) 155 43 112 260%

Expenses 2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Transferred to Scholarships Sub-Fund 52 - (52) Other expenses 16 8 (8) 88% 68 8 (60) 713%

ii. Statement of Financial Position

2017 2016 CHANGE CHANGE $’000 $’000 $’000 % Current assets 45 610 (565) (93%) Non-current assets 1,352 697 655 94% Total assets 1,396 1,306 90 7% Current liabilities 14 12 2 20%

Net assets 1,382 1,294 88 7% Retained earnings 1,382 1,294 88 7%

Total equity 1,382 1,294 88 7%

18 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 PEACE STONE VISIT

n Tuesday, 28 February 2017, St of the local landscape which almost has a The founder of Shuyodan Hoseikai, Seitaro John’s College was delighted to personality of its own – a personality which is Idei, was born in 1899 at Sano about 150 Owelcome members of the Shuyodan noble, refined, restrained, which invites us to km north of Tokyo. He became a pacifist at Hoseikai from Japan for a commemorative reflect on why it has been placed here, what an early age and from 1928 campaigned for ceremony in the presence of the Peace Stone. it stands for. the withdrawal of the Japanese military from politics and against Japan’s intervention in The Peace Stone at St John’s, located near “The quest for international peace, in Manchuria and Taiwan. He was imprisoned the Freehill Tower, is one of a number of accordance with the beliefs and traditions of four times from then until the end of the War. Stones erected in Japan and other countries Hoseikai, begins within our own hearts. If we In 1941 he founded Shuyodan Hoseikai, the by a Japanese foundation, Shuyodan purify our own hearts from anger and hatred, Society for Promoting Devoted Service and Hoseikai. we will be rendering ourselves capable of Sincerity. serving the cause of peace in our families, Each Peace Stone is a piece of natural rock our neighbourhoods, and our nations. In this There are 29 Peace Stones in Japan: the about two metres high, engraved with kanji way nations will come to have the moral virtue first was erected on an island off the coast characters. The Stone at St John’s is inscribed which alone makes possible a lasting peace of Hiroshima in 1959 and the fifteenth at with a poem of eight characters, which between the nations. Nagasaki in 1983. The Peace Stone at St translates as, “The Four Seas are brothers John’s is one of only five erected outside and sisters, all nations are at peace”. The “St John’s will continue to embrace its role Japan: the others are located in Sao Paolo, poem was written by a famous calligrapher as guardian of this Stone, and on behalf Berlin, San Francisco and Beijing. and Buddhist monk, Shunkai Bundo. of the College I express our hope that the high ideals of peace and harmony between The Peace Stone at St John’s was dedicated “It is a great privilege to have the opportunity nations, and between the people of different on 15 October 1989 and has been to welcome you here today for this nations, will always be expressed in our ceremonially visited on four occasions by commemorative ceremony in the presence corporate life at this College.” members of Shuyodan Hoseikai. Shuyodan of the Peace Stone”, said the Rector, Adrian Hoseikai has also endowed the Peace Stone Diethelm. “The Peace Stone is a feature Prize at the College.

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 19 JOHNSMEN’S ASSOCIATION

017 will be remembered as an eventful overlapping constituencies—from St John’s, (Emeritus Fellow), Chris McKenzie and Adam 2year for the alumni of the College, and from Sydney Uni, Waratah and Country Bisits (Chair of St John’s College Foundation). one in which their Association lived up to its rugby, from the legal community, from the The Johnsmen’s Association UK Chapter objects at a crucial juncture in the College’s Hearts in Union network – all happy to eat, reconvened in London in August. This network history. drink and be generous in supporting people provides an opportunity for our alumni to with disabilities to pursue and achieve their The first written Constitution of the Johnsmen’s catch up informally and meet fellow alumni goals, both at St John’s through the Laffan Association was adopted at a General who are either living in London or just passing Scholarship and elsewhere. Meeting held on 6 December 1952. While the through. Thanks to Xav de Viana (‘89) Constitution has been amended a couple of Aiming for the stars is the apposite expression and Jacob Gresham (‘01) who have been times since then, the Association has stayed when you have an astronaut, a young lady instrumental in co-ordinating the UK Chapter true to the objects it defined for itself 65 years wearing an Olympic gold medal, a Sydney lad and quarterly events are now planned in ago. who scored hundreds of points in the national London. colours of Scottish rugby union, and a veteran ‘The principal objects of the Association are:- Throughout 2017, the Association continued of two British and Irish Lions tours. So thanks to produce and distribute a quarterly to Dr Paul Scully-Power (John’s ’63), Emma (a) To encourage and assist friendship and e-newsletter to keep alumni informed of news Tonnegato, Dan Parks and Ian McLauchlan co-operation amongst students and former from the lives of John’s alumni, historical for their time, and thanks to the Committee students of St John’s College within the anecdotes and occasions to remember of our which did so much work to generate real University of Sydney and all others associated fellow alumni. The newsletter also enabled the income for the chosen cause. with or interested in the College. Association to promote scrutiny and informed Another successful Association Dinner was debate within the College community (b) To promote the interests, spiritual, cultural held at the College on the evening of Saturday concerning developments in College and material of the College and of the 23 September with over 85 people attending. governance. members of the Association in any way which Ed Fernon (‘07) was the Guest Speaker on may seem proper to the members of the On 28 March 2017, the new Minister for the evening and shared his story of winning Committee.’ Education, in answer to a question on notice the 2017 Mongolian Derby, the longest and in Parliament, confirmed the view of the During 2017 the Association held a number of toughest horse race in the world. Government that “since St John’s College is events and provided regular communication A Mass was held in the College Chapel prior a private institution, it is important there be to keep the alumni of the College informed, to the Dinner and it was an opportunity to broad agreement in the College community engaged and connected. pause and remember a number of Johnsmen about any amendments to the St John’s The 9th Annual Laffo’s Long Lunch was held who had sadly passed away during the College Act 1857”. Throughout 2017, the on June 15, 2017 and once again it delivered preceding twelve months. In particular Association Executive remained committed to in every sense. A room full of people from prayers were offered for Dan Vickerman, Dr keeping the graduate members of the College Peter Fortunaso, Rev Monsignor Paul Simms informed concerning its representations on

20 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 their behalf to the College Council and to the continue to “guard the guardians” and “watch Government concerning proposals to amend the watchmen”. the legislation that constitutes the College. In closing my report, I record the A Bill for a new Act was presented to Association’s gratitude to the alumni of the Parliament on 22 November 2017. When College who continue to promote its welfare introducing that Bill the Minister for Education by volunteering their time and skills, by stated “I am deliberately introducing this bill supporting and attending Association and now in order to leave it before the Parliament College events, or simply by being advocates for consideration before debate.” The for the College. Their contributions are the Association subsequently took a very active key to the growth of the College and its future role in promoting informed parliamentary prosperity, vibrancy and independence. debate, and the Minister acknowledged the Until next time Association’s role in improving the Bill when he subsequently moved amendments that Paul Dellow were unanimously approved by both Houses President of Parliament.

The College’s ongoing autonomy cannot be taken for granted and it has truly been said that “the price of liberty is eternal vigilance”. In 2017 the alumni, by their individual and collective interventions, convincingly demonstrated their commitment to the independence of the College.

One of the functions of their Association going forward will be to maintain the constructive momentum of that demonstrated commitment. We must be ready not only to defend the autonomy of the College from ill-motivated or ill-informed attacks, but also be prepared to engage in shaping the wider community’s perception of the College and what it stands for. If the College is to prosper, the alumni must, especially through their Association,

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 21 ST JOHN’S COLLEGE FOUNDATION

n the Annual Review last year the Foundation Foundation received approximately $12,000 of whom who have done so voluntarily; these Iadvised of the passing of its Honorary through the Annual Appeal. We acknowledge valuable contributions have been greatly Chairman, Adam Bisits, after a short illness. all the generous contributions of our donors – appreciated. The Board of the Foundation wishes to your donations, no matter how large or small, The present eight directors and their profiles acknowledge his long-term, dedicated continue to build on 30 years of your support are set out below. and invaluable contribution to work of for the College. the Foundation as a director and, finally,

In August 2017, the College commissioned a Mr David George McMurray BEng as its Chairman, and extends its sincere (SJC 1963), report from Marts & Lundy on fundraising and (Electrical), MBA (Harvard) condolences to his family. May he rest in Honorary Chairman, instigated the launching philanthropy which outlined a possible blue- peace. of the Foundation in 1986. He has worked print for future fundraising by both College as an engineer in Papua/New Guinea and At the 2017 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Foundation. Australia. David George McMurray, the inaugural The Foundation is looking forward to working Chairman, again took on the position of (SJC 2006), Vice-Chair, closely with the new Council in considering Ms Alexandra Ryan Chairman. holds education and business degrees the recommendations and, where considered from University of Sydney and University of Alexandra Ryan became the Vice-Chair appropriate, implementing them. Technology, Sydney and currently works in replacing Michael Sterndale-Smith. The Board Over the last several years the Foundation the financial services industry. wishes to acknowledge and thank Michael for has contributed to the discussions on the his dedicated and invaluable service since

future governance of the College which Mr Tim Edmonstone BEc, CA, 1986 when the Foundation commenced; (SJC 1988), is a farmer resulted in the passage of the GradDipAppFin he remains a Board member. The Board St John’s in Orange, NSW, and a director of the The new Act secures the also wishes to acknowledge and thank Bart College Act 2018. Nationwide Superannuation Fund. Tim has independence of the College and provides Oswald for his contribution as Vice-Chair extensive management and investment a platform and framework in which the during 2017; Bart remains a Board member. analyst experience, having worked for leading Foundation can continue to carry out its Finally, Roger Williams did not stand for re- financial and investment firms. important fundraising for the College. This election. The Board wishes to thank him for will bring about an exciting and dynamic new his dedicated and invaluable service since Mr Des Kennedy SC, BA, LLM (SJC 1967), chapter in fundraising with the Foundation 2009. who has been a director of the Foundation working together with the new Council and since 1992, practised as a barrister in NSW The St Johns College Foundation has been the Johnsmen’s Association in implementing since 1975 and was appointed Senior raising funds for the College for over 30 many of the recommendations in the Marts & Counsel in 1999. He has been a member years with the principle of investing funds Lundy review. of the NSW Bar Association Common Law prudently for the long term and leaving Committee, a nationally accredited mediator The Foundation is governed by an the capital untouched, so the magic of with the Bar Association of NSW, and served independent Board and it is timely to compounding can take effect. In 2010, out of on the Dust Disease Tribunal Panel. acknowledge the generous contribution of the income, it inaugurated and funded indigenous many past as well as the present directors, all scholarships at the College. In 2017 the

22 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 Mr Bart Oswald BVA (Hons), JD (SJC 2008) Details in relation to the AGM elections may is a public secondary school teacher in be obtained by contacting the Vice-Chair of Melbourne and has previously worked at the Foundation, Alexandra Ryan through the St John’s College as Dean of Students and College Advancement office. Alumni Officer. David George McMurray Mr Simon Scott BEc, CA, MBA (SJC 1992), Honorary Chairman has spent the past twenty years with French financial institution Societe Generale in Paris, Tokyo and Sydney, focusing on advising and arranging financing of energy projects such as solar and wind farms.

Mr Michael Sterndale-Smith BAgrSci, MBus (International Marketing), GradCertEd (HigherEd) (SJC 1966) is a director of City Tattersalls Club in Sydney and a sessional lecturer in business management at various tertiary institutions in Sydney with over thirty years’ experience in senior management roles in retail and manufacturing.

Mr Ian Tonking SC (SJC 1964), was a founding donor and has been a director of the Foundation since 2009. He graduated in arts/law and practised as a solicitor and later at the Bar. In 2007, he was appointed Senior Counsel. He now lives in the Southern Highlands where he is a farmer.

The Foundation has a critical need for new blood with energy, enthusiasm and new and dynamic ideas so that it can continue to effectively and successfully carry out its invaluable fundraising for the College. It urges donors and alumni who feel that they can assist in this valuable work, to stand for election as a director at the AGM.

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 23 RIDING THE STEPPES OF GENGHIS KHAN

d Fernon (SJC 2007), an Australian change horses every 40 kilometres and camp Needing a new challenge post-Olympics, EOlympian, won the longest and toughest out under the stars or stay with local herders. Fernon did a charity ride across the snowy horse race in the world - the Mongolian Derby. mountains. The ride retraced the 1,100 Fernon crossed the finish line of the kilometre journey of Archer, the legendary Twenty-nine-year-old Fernon conquered the Mongolian Derby exhausted and exhilarated. horse that walked from NSW to Melbourne gruelling 1,000 kilometre course, crossing the before winning the inaugural Melbourne Cup “Regardless of winning, what I came here for finish line with South African Barry Armitage in in 1861. “Following the Legend of Archer” was to challenge myself, give it my all, and equal first after a nail-biting race to the finish. raised over $50,000 for The Black Dog I’ve done that. I’ll sleep well tonight,” he said. Institute, offering support for people suffering The 2017 race saw 12 men and 24 women Fernon’s love of riding inspired him to take from depression and bipolar disorder. from nine countries riding across Mongolia up the modern pentathlon, mastering the five on semi-wild horses. Mostly riding full tilt, Fernon was the guest speaker at the 2017 disciplines of swimming, fencing, running, they charged through the rugged terrain of Johnsmen’s Association Annual Reunion shooting and show jumping. He started the the Mongolian Steppes, fording rivers and Dinner held at the College in September. sport as a 20-year-old and four years later crossing deserts and wide-open plains on a represented Australia in the 2012 London course that is designed to recreate Genghis Olympics. Khan’s ancient postal system. Competitors

24 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 DONORS 2017

he consideration of a gift is extremely an honour, exemplified by the large number of In order to be able to continue to support important to St John’s because it applicants who seek a place here each year. students to reach their full potential, the Tprovides resources that have an With a top quality tutorial program, excellent College counts on your support, now more immediate impact on the lives of our students pastoral care and a team of dedicated staff, than ever. Philanthropy is a personal journey. and enables future generations to focus on the College has become sought after for its As one of the oldest colleges in Australia, St their dreams and reach their full potential. excellence and warm sense of community. John’s is committed to the next generation of Catholic leaders leaving their mark on the St John’s College is a Catholic community Since 1858, each cohort of students has global community. whose members are inspired by high ideals of benefitted from the generosity of those before intellectual excellence, faithful Christian living them. Support for the College represents not and witness, and service to society. only confidence in current programs, but a belief in a collective future in which our St John’s is proud to be able to support young current and former residents contribute and people. Living at St John’s is a privilege and succeed in all walks of life.

Your donation makes a world of difference. Thank you to the following members of our community who generously gave to the College in 2017:

Dr Charles Abercrombie Adrian Diethelm Alexandra Mattei Ashlee Adams Tim Edmonstone Brian Morgan Vic Andallo Michael Gillespie Sam Newsome Grant Birse Christina Goh John Olovich Phillip and Jan Boyd-Turner Margaret Green John O'Meally Paul Casey Denis Harley Connell Peoples Kathy Chalmers Victor Harrison Michael Pidcock TJ Christie Frank and Pat Harvey James Roche Edward Cleary Grahame Howe Juliana Rossi Tom Condon Simon Hui Bernadette Tobin Kevin Connor Jennifer Laffan Gloria Trad Andrew Coorey Kurtis Lamond Patrick Tully Patrick J Curran Christine Liddy William Walsh Noel Dan Richard Maneschi Anthony (Tony) Walters

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 25 VALETE

ADAM BISITS He received primary school education impose himself on others and preferred to SJC 1970-1974 in Coolah and then, following his father’s bemusedly observe the goings on of College footsteps, went to St Joseph’s College at from afar. In 2000, he was a key member of St John’s College was deeply saddened by Hunters Hill and then St John’s College where the victorious Rawson Cup rugby side that the death of alumnus Adam Bisits (SJC 1970- he studied medicine. crushed the opposition, defeating St Paul’s 74) on Friday, 25 August 2017. Adam passed (39-10), St Andrew’s (45-5) and Wesley (36- away at home following a short illness. 10). Dan possessed a quiet intensity that he applied to all that he did, both on and off the Adam was a lifelong supporter of the College, DR PETER FORTUNASO field. a longstanding member of the Board of the SJC 1994-1995 College Foundation, and most recently was Vickerman made his debut with the Wallabies Peter was a 1999 Sydney Uni Veterinary Chair of the Foundation. in 2002 and went onto play for the Wallabies Faculty graduate and a Johnsman 1994 in 63 matches including three World Cup Adam was a highly experienced lawyer and fresher. campaigns. He notched up 78 caps for the brought a deep intellect and passion to the He was always a great dreamer and a thinker Brumbies and Waratahs between 2001- cause of industrial relations reform advocacy. with ambition and would throw himself into 2011 and 49 first grade games for Sydney He was a member of the board of the HR anything with amazing drive and dedication. University including 3 grand finals. In the Nicholls Society from 2003 and became But above all, he had great morals and a midst of all this, he found time to study land the society’s President in April 2010. Adam sense of fairness and right/wrong. Though economy at Cambridge University. previously practised in Sydney but from 2001 he was never one to back down from a he lived and worked in Melbourne. He will fondly be remembered as one of the confrontation or to not speak his mind, he toughest players on the field and one of the Adam was a devoted husband to Mary-Anne was not outspoken and a quiet achiever, nicest off the field. and father of Alice, Catriona, Xavier and allowing his actions and achievements to do Edward. the talking.

Over the last 15 years, he started three MONSIGNOR PAUL SIMMS veterinary clinics in the lower Hunter Valley/ SJC 1970-1974 DR FRANK TAYLOR Newcastle region and carved a niche in his slice of heaven in Clarence Town, NSW. Mgr Paul Simms was a member of the Dr Frank Taylor was a senior opthalmologist College Council in the 1980’s, having been responsible for the adoption of new He leaves behind his beautiful young family an engineering fresher at John’s in 1944 techniques such as the use of lasers and - three daughters, a son and his amazingly prior to commencing his priestly studies at plastic lenses and in using microscopes to strong wife Dr Jasmin Klocker (also a 1999 St Columba’s College Springwood. He was undertake delicate surgery. Sydney Vet graduate). ordained at Maitland on 22 July 1951 after Born in Orange, Frank Taylor spent his early completing his studies at St Patrick’s College years in Coolah in western NSW, where his Manly. He completed a doctorate in canon father was a general medical practitioner. DANIEL VICKERMAN law in Rome in 1954 and in 1970 was made a He embodied his father’s ideals of care and SJC 1999 Prelate of Honour to Pope Paul VI. service in his own practice of ophthalmology Dan Vickerman started at John’s midway Paul in addition to being a pastoral priest was learnt when he accompanied him on house through 1999 after moving from Cape Town a passionate ecumenist, a Rotarian and keen calls deep into the countryside. to pursue studies and a football career at the cricket follower. University of Sydney. Despite being a man of impressive stature, Dan was not one to

26 | ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 Prior to attending St John’s College, Paul DR JOHN MC PHILLIPS the 1960’s. She was responsible for the Simms was a student at St Joseph’s College, SJC 1946-1952 employment and management of staff at the Hunters Hill. Cerise and Blue, the publication College. of St Joseph’s College Old Boys Union Dr John McPhillips would have been one of Following her departure from the College Mrs described Paul Simms as ‘quite a star when our oldest Johnsmen when he passed away Sanders remained connected to St John’s he attended the College from Mayfield NSW in September 2017, aged 98. John McPhillips through her association with the Ladies during those early war years 1938 to 1943. was born on 12 April 1919 and was raised on Group. His Leaving Certificate result in 1942 was so the mid-North Coast of NSW on a farm outside good that he was awarded an exhibition for Kempsey. engineering at Sydney University and won a John attended St Joseph’s College Hunters University bursary. However, he decided to Hill. Following his time at Joey’s he initially repeat the Leaving Certificate in 1943, this served in the army during the war, before time being awarded an exhibition for dentistry transferring to the air force. John resided as well as another University bursary, adding at John’s between 1946 and 1952 where to that the achievement of being placed 2nd he completed an undergraduate degree in NSW LC Mathematics.’ in agricultural science before moving onto

Mgr Simms passed away on 3 April 2017. complete his PhD.

During his professional career, John worked as a microbiologist at the NSW Milk Board RICHARD (DICK) JOHN JAMES and University of Sydney. SJC 1979-1984

Dick James arrived at John’s in 1979 following six years at St. Joseph’s College, Hunters GEORGIE IRONS Hill. Dick studied law while residing at John’s SJC 2012 and excelled on the sporting field. He played Georgie Irons was a fresher at John’s in 2012 rugby for Sydney Uni and John’s and played and has been described as ‘the definition well and was a hard taskmaster on the field. of passion, of energy and of excitement’ Dick made the odd appearance in 1st grade by her friend from College, Suzie Stephen. for Uni and captained John’s in 1981 and at The College and Association extend their the time was the only person anyone could condolences to her parents, Jenny and remember representing John’s at every sport Gordon and her brothers and sister. in which they competed.

Dick returned home to Walgett in the mid 1980’s and was active in his local community, PATRICIA MARIE SAUNDERS particularly the Walgett Rams Rugby Club (NEE CARROLL) and Walgett Racing Club. Dick passed away suddenly in Walgett on 13 November 2017. The College was saddened to hear of the A Requiem Mass in celebration of his life was passing of Patricia Sanders (nee Carroll), held at St Mary’s Catholic Church Walgett on aged 91. Matron Carroll, as she was known Monday 20 November. at St John’s, was a much loved figure who worked and resided at the College in

ANNUAL REVIEW ST JOHN’S COLLEGE 2017 | 27 TELEPHONE 61 2 9394 5000 10 Missenden Road, Camperdown, NSW 2050 EMAIL [email protected] www.stjohnscollege.edu.au