Principal's Address
President's Address
Foundation Chair Address
Principal's Address
Since the last newsletter, Mr Chris Leadbetter has officially resigned from the College after being seconded to Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA). Chris has now accepted the position of Regional Director Education at EREA Colleges (SA/WA).
Over the last seven years, Chris has served the College and the community with great pride and achievement as the 25th Principal of St Laurence’s College. During his time at the College, Chris led an improvement agenda that was highlighted by advancements in the areas of learning and teaching, facilities, partnerships and wellbeing.
While his new role as Regional Director of Education (SA/WA) is both a calling and a career progression, we offer Chris a sincere thanks for his leadership at the College and extend a spirit of welcome to say that he will always be a part of the St Laurence’s College community.
Recently we farewelled our 2024 Graduating Seniors. The cohort left a lasting impact on the College with their consistent achievements and an approach to College life that was both authentic and humble. I congratulate College Captain Gianluca Josey on receiving the Facere et Docere award in 2025. Gianluca has been a highly successful captain and was clearly well respected by his peers.
The connection to the College remains strong for our graduating seniors. In a most recent survey of the Year 12’s by an external agency, the Year 12’s rated their Laurie’s Journey exceptionally high, highlighted by comparative data against other Queensland Colleges.
Following Mr Leadbetter’s departure and the flow on from my own appointment, it is with great excitement that I can announce several key appointments to the College Leadership Team (CLT). I welcome Ms Grace Loyden as the Head of Learning and Teaching and Mr Lachlan Heshusius who has been appointed Acting Dean of Identity and Community. While Grace is new to the Laurie’s community, Lachlan is a proud Old Boy and current staff member. We wish both Grace and Lachlan best wishes in their new roles. I also thank Mr Paul Corfield, for his 5 years of service to the College as the Dean of Identity and Community. Paul leaves the Laurie’s community to join St Patricks College Shorncliffe where he also is an Old Boy of their community.
The spirit of service and support continues through our Old Boys’ Foundation led by Prof Allan Layton (1972) and the financial support that is provided for boys to attend this College. This can make all the difference to the lives of others and this year the contribution of the Foundation was $110,000. Similarly, as both a current parent and as a 1994 Old Boy, Mr Michael Batch has this year led and served as the Chair of the School Advisory Council. I thank all Foundation and Council members for their work to assist us with our mission.
In 2024 our enrolment will surpass 2,040 students with waiting lists in most year levels. This will be a record enrolment for the College with full capacity in all year levels. Our environment is most competitive and we need to ensure that we remain relevant, yet that we don’t lose the Laurie’s spirit and passion. In 2025 the College Leadership team will tweak the current Strategic Plan to ensure this need is met. I look forward to presenting this to the community in the new year.
Some would be aware that the commencement of the new building works as Stage 1 of the College’s long term Master Plan was due to begin in late 2024. The original building concept was to be split over two stages with Stage 1A to deliver an underground carpark on Savio Oval, as well as the footings and provisions for Stage 1B, a new innovation and learning centre plus associating classrooms.
Unfortunately, as the construction commencement date became a reality, the College was informed that the latest geo-testing results would prove the site to be even more challenging than initially thought. Despite months of design, testing and pre-works, the notion of an excavation/ underground project has become too risky for the College to proceed with, based on the initial plan. The cost-to-benefit ratio would ultimately determine this decision.
With the initial building concept work now paused, there is still a great desire from the College to deliver an innovative and futuristic learning centre for our students. The College Project Control Group is working with the project superintendent to reformulate a design that both meets the needs of the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) and the learning needs of our community. It is hoped that this revised project will now begin in 2025 and will not include a multi-level underground car park. Further information regarding the Master Plan will be communicated in the new year.
As we conclude the academic year, I must make mention of two notable retirements at the College. Recently we farewelled Old Boy Mr Michael Sharkey (29 years) and Mr John Butterworth (16 Years) as they commenced their retirement. With over 65 years of experience in Catholic Education across Queensland between them, Michael and John have achieved much at Laurie’s. They will both be remembered as highly relational teachers and leaders who always placed the students at the centre of their work. We wish them well for their future and thank them for their service to the College.
Finally, I would like to thank Mr Peter Wendt and the Old Boy Committee for their ongoing efforts to support past students and their families. I especially thank them for their most recent gift of storage and signage for the Runcorn Sporting Fields. This years Old Boys events were highly successful and we look forward to further collaboration as the College celebrates 110 years of education in 2025.
I offer our best wishes to all Old Boys and their families over the Christmas break. I trust that as we continue to honour our past, we will go forth building a legacy for the future.
Merry Christmas and happy and safe New Years to all.
Mr Ben Lowrie
College Principal
President's Address
From the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the Annual Cricket Match against the First XI in January, to the Old Boys’ and Community Concert, the Woody Cup, the Reunion Weekend and our distinguished Hall of Fame Inductees in August, it has been another eventful year for the Old Boys’ Association.
On behalf of the Old Boy Community, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr Ben Lowrie on his recent appointment as the College Principal. Ben's appointment is truly wonderful and he continues to be an exceptional supporter of the Association and Foundation. Thank you also to Mr Chris Leadbetter for his exceptional and steadfast support of the Old Boys. The Association's current success owes a great deal to his invaluable support.
Congratulations to Mr Luke Willian (2014) and Mr Rowan Crothers OAM (2015) on their recent outstanding performance at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics. Rowan secured both Silver and Bronze medals. The Association takes immense pride in their remarkable achievements.
Another significant event this year was the Hall of Fame induction ceremony, held on Tuesday 27 August at the Annual College Old Boys’ Assembly. This year's esteemed inductees were Mr Geoff Dickie (1961), Mr Peter O'Meara (1973) and Dr Michael Wagels (1992). Every two years, in collaboration with the College, the Old Boys community nominates individuals who have demonstrated outstanding merit for induction into the Hall of Fame. Congratulations to Geoff, Peter (RIP), and Michael for this well-deserved recognition. In addition to this, the Old Boys were honoured to support a College initiative that acknowledges the accomplishments of younger Old Boys (under 30) through the Young Alumni Award. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the inaugural award recipients Mr Samuel Piper, Dr Calvin Xu and Mr Rowan Crothers OAM.
The weekend prior to the Old Boys Assembly saw nearly 500 Old Boys in attendance at various functions as part of the Reunion Weekend. These events included Year Reunions, College Tours, the Old Boys' Memorial Mass, and the Seniors Lunch.
The Woody Cup was once again contested across 10 sports between the College and the Old Boys, with the Old Boys emerging victorious 6-4 to retain the Cup. This year, over 80 Old Boys participated in the Woody Cup, demonstrating strong interest. In fact, in several sports, we could have fielded multiple teams.
Every year brings forth new and noteworthy innovations that distinguish themselves from the norm.
With the support of the College, the Association has undertaken significant efforts to elevate the prominence of the Facere et Docere Award this year. We invite you to stay tuned for forthcoming updates on this matter, which will be provided in Term 4. As part of these initiatives, we will also establish an Honour Board that will proudly showcase the names of all recipients of this Award since 1991.
The Association's website is continuously expanding, serving as a valuable point of contact for all alumni. Our Facebook page is exclusively accessible to Old Boys, whereas our Instagram page welcomes all individuals. We are dedicated to fostering engagement and connectivity through these platforms. We are currently looking to update our military service records. Should you have any information which may assist, please contact us via the College. Thank you once again to the College for their invaluable support and to Helen Turner, whose exceptional efforts play a pivotal role in the resounding success of our events.
Mr Peter Wendt (1988)
2024 Old Boys' Association President
Foundation Chair Address
As many readers would know quite well by now, the Old Boys’ Foundation believes deeply in providing a financial hand-up to Laurie's families who find themselves in financial difficulty. Each year it provides a gift to the College arising out of its operations; this gift to be used to provide fee-relief bursaries to families in need so their sons can continue their Laurie's Journeys.
Due to the wonderful, continuing generosity of our donor community, the Foundation’s gift to the College this year was $110,000; the second year in a row the Foundation has been able to gift a six figure sum to the College! As with every year, College Principal Mr Ben Lowrie will provide the Trustees with a general summary of how the funds are used by the College to help families in need. I will advise Old Boys in next year’s June Newsletter how this 2024 gift was used by the College to assist financially disadvantaged Laurie's families. Since 2006, this brings the aggregate of the Foundation’s gifts to the College to well over three quarters of a million dollars, or, more precisely, to $865,000!
As far as the 2024 Annual Appeal is concerned, it was again fantastic to see the ongoing generosity of the Foundation’s donors – existing and new. On top of this, the two new major College fundraising events – the Laurie's Autumn Lunch in March and the Laurie's Gala Dinner in September - were again held with the Foundation being a beneficiary (the College Building Fund being the other) and receiving 50% of the net proceeds raised. With the $110k gift to the College, the Annual Appeal and these two events being such a fantastic success, 2024 was another great year for the Foundation and for the families and their sons which it assists.
I would also like to acknowledge the 20-year contribution Mr John McLellan of BCRFP has made to the Foundation as its Financial Advisor (pictured with me and fellow Trustee, Mr Will Siganto, after receiving a small gift as a token of the Foundation’s appreciation). Whilst not an OB himself, John’s son is, and for those 20 years, the Foundation has been much more than just another client to John, believing deeply as he does in its Mission to provide financial assistance to struggling Laurie's families. Whilst John’s long innings as advisor to the Foundation has come to an end, his service over his 20 years has been significant and is very much appreciated. Thank you, John!
In conclusion, my fellow Old Boys, if you are already a Foundation donor, thank you and please continue your support. If you’re not yet a donor please consider becoming one; it’s a great cause! By donating to the Foundation you will be helping yet more financially disadvantaged boys get to complete their Laurie's Journey and have the great start in life that comes with it.
Have a great Christmas!
Professor Allan Layton (1971)
Old Boys' Foundation Chairman
Recapping our 2024 Hall of Fame and Young Alumni Recipients
Our Honours List
Welcome to the 2024 Cohort
Facere et Docere Award
Old Boys Reunion Weekend
SLConX - What is in store for 2025?
Woody Cup VIII
More Storage for Runcorn
Annual General Meeting (AGM) Notice
College Cultural and Sporting Update
2025 Save the Date
2025 Student Leaders
Old Boys' Foundation Bequests
WW2 Service Records Project
St Laurence's College 110 Year Anniversary
Our Story
Service History & Archives Request
Vale
Recapping our 2024 Hall of Fame and Young Alumni Recipients
On Tuesday 27 August, the College celebrated the achievements of some of our Old Boys at the annual Old Boys' Assembly. As part of the proceedings, three new Old Boys' were inducted into our Hall of Fame as well as three past pupils received Young Alumni Awards.
Every two years, in conjunction with the Old Boys’ Association, a nomination process is undertaken to induct Old Boys into our Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame officially opened in 2013 and has over 82 pictures of Old Boys on the walls. Each of these gentlemen have achieved excellence in their field. Be it in academics, service to the community, sport or the Arts, these men have made a positive contribution to society.
On Tuesday, we added three more Old Boys to this prestigious group; Mr Geoffrey Dickie, Mr Peter O’Meara and Dr Michael Wagels.
Mr Geoffrey Dickie
Geoff commenced his Lauries Journey in Grade 5 and enjoyed an array of Co-Curricular activities including Debating, Rugby, Cricket and the Air Training Corps. He graduated in 1961 as College Captain and Dux of the College. In University, he studied Geology which led him to live in Canada for over 20 years, working in remote locations on exploration projects. Upon returning to Australia, Geoff continued his work in the private sector before moving into Government roles. During his time in the Department of Resources, Geoff played an integral role in ensuring native rights were acknowledged and negotiated benefits for the traditional owners of the land. This was truly impactful at a time when new and controversial processes were established within the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments. In 2004, Geoff moved into the role of Deputy-Coordinator General, Infrastructure and Economics and worked closely on projects such as the Clem 7 and Airport Link tunnels before retirement in 2017.
Mr Peter O’Meara
Mr Peter O’Meara from the Class of 1973 joined the College in Year 4, 1965. Peter wholeheartedly committed himself to developing his skills, interests and lifelong friendships. He also found a love of Rugby Union. While professionally, Peter worked in banking, his passion for Rugby continued to evolve, leading him to roles such as a member of the New South Wales Waratahs Board and in 2005, being appointed as the CEO of the Western Force in Perth. During his three-year tenure, Peter secured the biggest sponsorship portfolio and membership base of any Australian Super 14 team at the time, plus introduced the Force’s ‘away’ colours of black and gold as a nod to his time at Lauries.
Peter’s next professional step saw his appointment as CEO of Sydney’s Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria where he led the charge to stop the de-privatisation of Catholic Cemetries. Peter also established ‘Bringing them Home’, an initiative that ensures people without means for a funeral have an appropriate, dignified send-off. This dedication to the Catholic mission saw Peter Knighted by the Church with the Order of St Gregory in March 2023.
Unfortunately, Peter’s life was cruelly cut short by Motor Neurone Disease in June last year. Today, he is survived by his wife Christine, children Liam and Caitlin and grandson Thomas. On Peter’s behalf, his son and Class of 2003 Old Boy Mr Liam O’Meara accepted his father’s award.
Dr Michael Wagels
Dr Michael Wagels from the Class of 1992 started his Laurie Journey in Year 5 not knowing anyone here. This quickly changed, with Michael happily trying new things including Music and Tennis, which he later was the captain of in 1991 and 1992.
Following graduation, Michael studied an undergraduate degree in Medicine before travelling and working overseas. Michael’s interest in reconstruction surgery grew and, following many years of research and training, Michael was awarded his Fellow of the Royal College of Australasian Surgeons.
Michael’s research for his PhD led to amazing opportunities to share his insights with surgeons around the world. He has continued his research into the use of 3D printing in transplants and as an implant alternative. An example of this was in 2017 when Michael successfully transplanted a 3D-printed shinbone into the leg of a patient who faced amputation after sustaining a serious bone infection.
As Clinical Director of the Herston Biofabrication Institution, he and his team are now working towards manufacturing body parts based around a person’s cells to create the necessary organs for transplanting. They are also revolutionising the breast implant landscape by creating 3D printed bioresorbable scaffolds to replace traditional silicone implants, which can in some cases have devastating health implications.
In 2024, the College, with the support of the Old Boys’ Association, introduced the Young Alumni Award. This annual award recognises Lauries alumni (30 years and younger) who achievements since graduation have demonstrated excellence in their chosen pathway, leadership, innovation and/or service to the wider community.
In its inaugural year, three Old Boys have been selected for this award; Mr Samuel Piper, Dr Calvin Xu and Mr Rowan Crothers OAM
Sam Piper
Samuel Piper from the Class of 2010 was acknowledged for his success singing Opera. Since leaving Lauries, Sam has completed a Bachelor of Music at the Queensland Conservatorium, performed with Opera Australia, Victorian Opera, Queensland Symphony Orchestra and Pinchgut Opera. He has also travelled to Italy to learn under master teachers and this all may not have happened if not for Dr Anthony Young and Ms Irene Utley who discovered and fostered this pathway through school.
Dr Calvin Xu
Class of 2014 Old Boy Dr Calvin Xu started as an International student in Year 10 at Lauries and he soon immersed himself in everything he could. His positive and studious attitude saw Calvin elected Prefect in 2014, selected in the First V Basketball team and Dux of Chemistry and the College.
Upon graduation, Calvin has continued his studies with a Bachelor of Medicine and Doctor of Medicine at Griffith University. He is currently a Medical Registrar at Northern Hospital Melbourne and hopes to specialise in gastroenterology with a mixture of public, private and academic work.
In addition to this, Calvin is a proud international student ambassador, returning to speak to Lauries students only recently.
Rowan Crothers
Class of 2015 Old Boy and Paralympic Gold Medallist Mr Rowan Crothers OAM commenced at the College in Year 11 and immediately felt at home. Outside of school, Rowan had discovered his passion for swimming, which was recommended by his therapy team who supported him with his Cerebral Palsy.
Fast forward to today and Rowan is a decorated athlete having attended dozens of international competitions including the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Paralympics where he won two gold and one silver medal.
Outside of the pool, Rowan is a public speaker, board advisory member and a fierce advocate for inclusion in sport and recognising athletes with invisible disabilities like his. This dedication saw Rowan awarded an Order of Australia Medal in 2022.
Unfortunately Rowan wasn’t present on the day as he was in Paris, awaiting the commencement of the 2024 Paralympic Games. Rowan recorded a message before his departure and his father, Mr Robert Crothers, was able to accept the award on his behalf.
Congratulations to these worthy inductees and award recipients on their recognition!
Our Honours List
In 2024 a number of Old Boys received recognition for their chosen field and community service.
Matt Young (1983) was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Australia Day 2024 honours list for his contribution to community health.
Pat Carroll (1978) was warded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Australia Day 2024 honours list for his contribution to community health and sport.
Robin Fleming (1975) was awarded a Knights Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) in the Papua New Guinea Honours List for 2023. The KBE was awarded for Services to the Community (Robin has lived in PNG for 45 years) and to the Banking System where he was CEO of BSP Bank PNG for 10 years. Robin was also Awarded the Companion of the Star of Melanesia (CSM) in 2015 for services to banking in the region.
Rowan Crothers OAM (2015) - A 2024 Paralympian who competed in the Men's S10 100m and 50m events where he won a silver and bronze respectively.
Luke Willian (2014) - Competed in his first Olympics in Paris in the Men's Triathlon. Luke also finished 6th overall on the World Triathlon Series which is the first time in 10 years two Australian Males have finished in the top 10.
Geoff Lamb (1987) for winning Best Editing at the 2024 Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) Awards for the movie “Talk to Me”.
Daniel O'Brien (2008) was also a 2024 Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) Awards finalist for Best Original Score in Television. The nomination was for Episode four of Fisk.
Dennis Mellican (1988) won a Gold Award at the Global Astrophotography Awards for his Lunar ball image.
Tommy Quinlivan (2003) was named Queensland Senior Male Player of the Year at the recent Touch Football Gala evening. It caps off a fantastic year for Tommy which included being part of the successful World Championship winning Men's 30s team.
The Australian Athletics Championships saw have a number of Old Boys (and current students) competing at both the Under 20 and Open levels. Old Boys who competed included - Jack Coomber (2023), Oscar Miers (2019) and Nathan Taverner (2023).
Recent Old Boy Terrell Thorne (2024) competed at the recent Australian All Schools Athletics Championships - winning the U18 400m and breaking the Australian record with a time of 45.64secs! Terrell also finished third in the 200m U18 final.
Jack Coomber (2023) represented Australia at the U20 World Cross Country Championships in Serbia. He was the first Australian to cross the line in a team of 6.
Cooper Cronk (2001) was inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame - #124.
Old Boys Brody McLaren, Darcy Rowan, Byron Murphy, Callum Reidy, Finn Mackay were all named in the Queensland Under 19 Rugby Union team which also included Old Boy physio Dr Felix Leung.
Jacob Brehmer (2021) placed 2nd in 17-24 years QLD BMX Racing State Championships.
Noah Vojinov (2020) represented Queensland at the National Indigenous Cricket Carnival.
John Bryant (2020) played for Australia A on the Wallabies end of year European tour.
Emmanuel Meafou (2015) would have been his Senior year cohort before moving to IGS made his debut for France in the 6 Nations Rugby tournament.
Todd Dammers (1997) was named Forwards Coach for the US Major Rugby team the Chicago Hounds. Simon Craig (1989) was named Assistant Coach for the Queensland Women's Super Rugby side in 2025.
Hans Pearson (1986) was appointed to the Board of Rugby Australia.
Welcome to the 2024 Cohort
Welcome to our youngest Old Boys - the Class of 2024!
Facere et Docere Award
2024 Recipient - Gianluca Josey
Congratulations to Year 12 student Gianluca Josey on receiving the Facere et Docere Award. The Award, sponsored by the Old Boys', is presented to the student who is an exemplary role model to others and commits himself to the building principles of the College including: Service to all areas of College life, Respect and Courtesy, Presentation, Involvement and Support of others. Thanks to Association Vice President John O'Brien (a past recipient himself) who was on hand to present the Award on behalf of the Old Boys.
Facere et Docere Honour Board
Recognizing the prestige of the Facere et Docere Award, the Association proposed to the College the establishment of an Honor Board to commemorate its esteemed recipients. This initiative underscores our commitment to celebrating excellence and inspiring future generations. We are pleased to announce the Honour Board has now been created and will be formally commissioned in 2025.
Old Boys Reunion Weekend
Each year, the Association in conjunction with the College hosts a suite of activities focused around the Old Boys' Weekend. This year, the Class of 1974, 1984, 1994, 2004 and 2014 attended their 50, 40, 30, 20 and 10 Year Reunions respectively on Saturday 24 August. Over 230 guests took part in these festivities which saw gentlemen take an optional tour of the campus before moving off to their respective year level reunions.
On Sunday 25 August, many Laurie's community members joined in prayer at the annual Old Boys’ Memorial Mass. It was amazing to see so many families take a moment to acknowledge those who are no longer with us. This was followed by the Senior Old Boys’ Luncheon at ERPAC with over 100 guests from the Class of 1973 and earlier catching up for a lovely meal, drinks and hearty conversation.
The festivities concluded on Tuesday 27 August with the Old Boys’ Assembly. Gentlemen from the Class of 1954 and 1964 came together for their 60 and 70 year reunions as well as we acknowledged our Hall of Fame and Young Alumni Award winners. This event also saw the Old Boys' retain the Woody Cup sheild plus numerous other Old Boy related activities.
Photos from the events can be found HERE.
On behalf of the Association and College, thank you to everyone who took part in the weekend. We look forward to continuing the program into 2025 as we celebrate 110 Years at the College.
SLConX - What is in store for 2025?
2025 SLConX Schedule
We are pleased to announce the 2025 Edition of SLConX has been locked in.
| Emergency Services & Defence | Tues 18 March |
| STEM (Science, Math, Research) | Tues 29 July |
| Trades | Monday 2 June |
If you would like to participate in the above sessions, please register your interest by clicking here.
2024 Recap
Design, Architecture and Built Environment
12 March was yet again well attended. Thanks to Old Boys Matt Kan (1996), Anthony Andrews (1977), Glen Power (1997) and Michael Cardillo (2016).
Business, Finance, Accounting and Law
28 May saw a fantastic turn out. Thank you to Old Boys Joe Curtis (2008), Brett Dammers (1993), Tim Foley (1997) and Adam Grey (2004).
IT/Cyber Security/Software Development/Web Design
23 July rounded out our 3rd SLConX for the year. Thanks to Dean Lacheca (1987); Hayden Seng (2022) and Mat Lewis (1994) on being our guest presenters. Also a special shout out to our 4th presenter Marc Habachi (2009) who was unable to make due to the early arrival of his baby son. Congrats Marc!!!
Woody Cup VIII
The 8th edition of the Paul "Woody" Forrester Cup was again another closely contested affair. This year saw the introduction of AFL, which replaced Athletics on the calendar. Across the 10 sports, the Old Boys were victorious 6-4 to retain the Cup.
Register your interest for Woody Cup IX 2025
If you would like to participate in Woody Cup IX please click here to register your interest.
Old Boy Medal - Nominate Now
In 2024, the Old Boys Association and the College collaboratively established the Anthony "Rat" Raiteri Medal, awarded to the College's most outstanding student player in the annual cricket match. This prestigious accolade, now commonly referred to as the Rat Medal, has set a precedent for recognition for the Woody Cup.
Building on this success, the Association is now exploring the possibility of introducing similar medals for each of the nine additional sports included in the Woody Cup schedule. These proposed awards would honour Old Boys who have made significant contributions to their respective sports, creating a lasting legacy and inspiring current students.
The Association envisions a phased implementation of this medal concept. To ensure the selection process is inclusive and reflective of the Old Boys community's values, we invite all Old Boys to participate by nominating worthy candidates through the provided link. Your input is invaluable in shaping this initiative.
You can nominate a worthy Old Boy to have a medal named after him by each sport by clicking here.
2024 Round Up
Cricket - The original date for the match was postponed due to the weather. The next available time for the match meant it was reduced to a T20 shootout. The First Xi was bowled out for 108. Unfortunately the Old Boys wilted under the run chase to be bowled out for 66. Not since 2017 has the First XI beaten the Old Boys.
Swimming - The lads went down is a very close 4x50m Medley Relay. We still maintain the College looks at our Roster then tries to nobble us by changing the format each year.
Volleyball - Another very closely contested event saw the Old Boys win 2-1. In what is now a wonderful tradition, the Old Boys present the First VI with their jerseys after the match.
AFL- A new event on the calendar with the rules modified slightly. The first ever match saw the Old Boys come away with a narrow 56-48 victory on Gair Field. In the end, like most Woody Cup games, we could have fielded 2 sides.
Cross Country - An amazing turn out of 17 Old Boys laced up spanning 5 decades and many family connections. The result meant we wrestled the mantle away from the College team for first time since 2018.
Chess - The Old Boys team fought very hard until the end, but were beaten by a very talented First IV who probably should have won the AIC Premiership.
Tennis - In an extremely close fought match, the two sides had to be separated by matches won. Both teams won 4 sets each, with the Old Boys winning by the narrowest margin ever, 34 games to 32.hion.
Football - Again this year the result was only known after the penalty shootout. Locked at 1-1 at full time, the First XI was able to come away with the victory, turning the tide on last years result which saw the Old Boys win in the same fashion.
Basketball - The skill level was off the highest order when the Old Boys managed to pull off a solid win against the First V. The Old Boys gradually applied more and more pressure to move clear in the final quarter. The final score did not reflect the closeness of the match.
Touch Football - The final match of the 2024 edition was the difference between a 6-4 aggregate win and a 5-5 tie. Even as a tie the Old Boys would have retained the Cup having won edition VII. Led by Australian Rep Tommy Quinlivan, the Old Boys held off a very tough First team with the narrowest of margins.
| Event | Scores | Result |
|---|---|---|
|
Cricket
|
108 to 66
|
College
|
|
Swimming
|
4 x 50m Medley Relay
|
College
|
|
AFL
|
56-48
|
Old Boys
|
|
Volleyball
|
2-1
|
Old Boys
|
|
Cross Country
|
37-41 (lowest score wins)
|
Old Boys
|
|
Football
|
1-1 (Firsts won on penalty shoot out)
|
College
|
|
Chess
|
14-2
|
College
|
|
Tennis
|
4 sets each: OB won 34-32 on games
|
Old Boys
|
|
Basketball
|
77-60
|
Old Boys
|
|
Touch Football
|
5-4
|
Old Boys
|
More Storage for Runcorn
New additions to the Runcorn Sporting Fields Landscape
Earlier in the year we were approached by the College on how best to utilise funds the Association had been setting aside for additional buggies to help transport sporting kits and boys around the Runcorn Playing Fields. The decision was taken to use those funds to purchase much needed storage space for the outer fields (which would also reduce the wear and tear on the existing buggies). Now in place ready for the new sporting year are two Containers proudly supporting sport at Lauries.
Annual General Meeting (AGM) Notice
St Laurence’s College Old Boys’ Association
Annual General Meeting
Notice is given of the Annual General Meeting of the St Laurence’s College Old Boys’ Association Inc, to be held:
Saturday, 25th January 2025
1:00–1:30pm
Br Ryan Function Centre, Runcorn Playing Fields
Nathan Rd, Runcorn
Alternatively, you may click to register for online participation and a Microsoft Teams link will be emailed to you closer to the date.
AGM Agenda:
Confirmation of minutes of previous AGM
President’s Report
Treasurer’s Report
General Business
Election of 2025 Management Committee
Relevant documents (minutes, financial statements etc) will be uploaded here prior to the meeting.
Nominations are sought for all positions on the Management Committee. Please click here to submit a nomination by Saturday 11 January, being 14 days before the date of the AGM. In accordance with the SLOBA Constitution, a list of nominees will be published 7 days prior to the AGM, in the above meeting document link. Should a position receive no nominations, then nominations may be taken from the floor at the AGM.
A Committee meeting will follow the AGM, for those elected. The Committee generally meets monthly (online), and members contribute to various SLOBA projects throughout the year (and especially the Old Boys weekend in August).
If you cannot attend the AGM, but wish to appoint a proxy to vote on your behalf, you may do so by clicking here. This must be completed prior to the commencement of the meeting.
Kind regards,
Michael Campbell
2024 SLOBA Secretary
College Cultural and Sporting Update
Below is some highlights from the Cultural and Sporting programs for 2024.
Music
- Achieved 11 Gold, five Silver and one Bronze awards at the Queensland Catholic Colleges Music Festival in August.
- Delivered three music camps, 20 concerts, 11 recitals, 10 workshops plus volunteer performance opportunities and more.
- Hosted another successful LIZID Concert Series whereby students nominate to perform for others during lunchbreaks, including the return of Old Boy bands.
- Performances as part of Brisbane’s Queen Street Jazzin’ Up the Mall Concert Series.
Sport
- 1st XVIII AFL team successfully defended its Premiership title, while our Rugby First XV, Basketball First V, and Chess First IV teams achieved impressive Top Three finishes.
- AIC season aggregate results: Seven championship-winning teams in AIC Football, Basketball team achieved second place finish, while Volleyball concluded the season with a third place finish.
- Nearly 30 Primary teams competed in multiple sports throughout the year.
- Another successful year for the College in our ‘Colours Cup’ where students who were not selected for AIC teams still engage in their chosen sport through an internal competition. Sports included in the Colours Cup includes Cricket, Volleyball, Basketball, Tennis and Chess. This initiative, while focusing on fostering active participation, has also become a pathway for talent discovery, with several participants moving on to represent the College at A and First levels.
Aggregate Placings:
AFL - 1st (Premierships - 1sts, 2nds, 9B, 8A, 8B, 7B)
Cricket - 5th (Premierships - 9B, 7B)
Swimming - 4th (Primary 6th)
Volleyball - 2nd (Premierships - 3rds, 4ths, 11A, 11B, 10A, 9D, 7C)
Cross Country - 3rd (Primary - 5th) (Age Wins for U12 and U16)
Football - 1st (=ASH) (Premierships - 3rds, 4ths, 5ths, 8A, 8C, 7A, 7B)
Rugby - 4th (Premierships - 9A, 7A)
Chess - 2nd (Premierships - Junior A, Junior B)
Tennis - 5th
Rugby League - 4th (Premierships - 7A, 7B)
Basketball - 2nd (Premierships - 2nds, 11A, 11C, 10A)
Athletics - 7th (Primary =4th)
Water Polo - Yr8-9 Champions
Touch Football - Primary runners-up, Yr 7 Champions
Golf - 9th (net), 9th (gross)
2025 Save the Date
2025 Student Leaders
St Laurence’s College is proud to affirm the our 2025 School Captain, Luca Ellero who will be supported by Vice Captains Billy Rowan and Charles Taylor. These leaders are pictured with College Principal, Mr Ben Lowrie plus 2024 College Captain, Gianluca Josey and Vice Captains Harrison Frost and Tayt Qualischefski.
These gentlemen will be supported by the 2025 Prefects including:
House Captains
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Callan
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Riley Stoikov
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Duhig
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Aiden Lamont
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Hogan
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Kai Harrington
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Kilian
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Hayden Revell
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Nagle
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Lachlan Witham
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Rice
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Luke Thompson
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Sion
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Ethan Connelly
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Treacy
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Jack Rea
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Waterford
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Luka Smith
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Xavier
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Josh Pearce
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Prefects
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Academic
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Anton Raggl-Erbs
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Ben Stallman
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Finn Totterman
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Engagement & Wellbeing
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Nate Bainbrigge
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Harrison Fox
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Morgan Oiso
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Faith in Action
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Atticus Lynch
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Hugh Morley
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Aiden Savy
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Solidarity & Culture
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Erik Dwyer
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Mackinnon Moffat
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Anlin Tso
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Spirit & School Pride
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Finn Cavallaro
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Jack Ehler
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Fletcher Karger-Hall
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Congratulations to these young men as they lead the Graduating Class of 2025 and the wider student body next year.
Old Boys' Foundation Bequests
The St Laurence's Old Boys' Foundation is proud of the strong legacy created by Old Boys who provide a life-changing education for students who otherwise could not afford it.
A gift to the Foundation in your will is an amazing way to build upon this legacy. Further information regarding the Old Boys' Foundation Bequest Program can be found HERE. Alternatively, please reach out to Helen Turner on 07 3010 1178 or development@slc.qld.edu.au.
WW2 Service Records Project
WW2 Service Record Project
In the third quarter of this year, the Association initiated a comprehensive review of Old Boys who potentially served in World War II. We anticipate this number to be substantial and believe it warrants appropriate recognition. Our preliminary findings have already uncovered noteworthy accomplishments, including recipients of the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) and the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Upon completion of the World War II service review, we intend to extend our research to encompass all subsequent conflicts and peacekeeping missions.
Our goal is to conclude the World War II review by ANZAC Day, enabling us to properly commemorate their service. Additionally, we will enhance the Military Old Boys section on our website to provide more detailed information about each individual's contributions.
We also need your help!!
We are reaching out to our Old Boy Community for assistance in gathering comprehensive service details as part of our ongoing initiative. If you have served or are aware of someone who has, and you are uncertain whether we have the complete information, we kindly request you to contact us via email at slcoldboys@slc.qld.edu.au. Your contribution is invaluable in ensuring the accuracy and completeness of our records.
St Laurence's College 110 Year Anniversary
In 2025, St Laurence's College will be celebrating it's 110 Year Anniversary with a suite of special events and activities.
Find out more about this milestone occasion HERE.
Our Story
At the College, we believe it is important to acknowledge the history of our great school and the achievements of past students. Recently an 'Our Story' section was introduced into the Library. This space is dedicated to the great stories of our school, providing a place for students to immerse themselves in the stories of others.
Should you have an auto-biography, biography or non-fiction book you have written and would like to contribute to the collection, please contact Helen Turner on 07 3010 1178 or slcoldboys@slc.qld.edu.au.
Service History & Archives Request
SERVICE HISTORY
The Old Boys’ Association endeavours to ensure our past and present serviceman records are up to date. If you have completed (or are currently in) active service for our country, please email your service details to College at slcoldboys@slc.qld.edu.au. All details will be updated on the online listing available to view HERE as soon as possible.
ARCHIVES CALL OUT
The College is on the hunt for any pieces of memorabilia pertaining to our great school. If any Old Boys would like to gift or lend an item for display during the year (for example school jackets, photos or memorabilia) please contact the College on (07) 3010 1105 or archive@slc.qld.edu.au.
Vale
| Name | Alumni | Connections |
|---|---|---|
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Geoffrey Hegarty
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1950
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Terry Cotter
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1954
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Dennis Hannan
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1954
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Edward (Ted) Dahms
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1956
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Father of Matthew (1999) and Andrew (2000) plus grandfather of Christian (current student)
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Kevin Donaghue
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1957
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Brother of Timothy (1961) and uncle of Stephen dec. (1983), Shane (1985), Matthew (1988), Geoffrey (1992), Patrick (1993) and David (1998)
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Leonard Parker
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1959
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Grandfather of James Arnold (2013) and dec. Matthew Arnold (2013)
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Peter Rice
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1960
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Brother of Phillip (1963)
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Kevin Robertson
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1962
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Phillip Rice
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1963
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Brother of Peter (1960)
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Kevin Taylor
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1963
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Ian Thompson
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1963
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John Quane
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1963
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Son of John (1934) and nephew of Kevin (1931)
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Thomas Rynne
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1965
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Father of Luke (2003) and cousin of Tom (1942), Jack (1943), Frank (1948) plus Peter (1973) and Dominic Cannon (1977)
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Kenneth Viertel
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1965
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John Weatherley
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1965
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Father of Christian (1991) and Simon (1994)
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Glenn McGrath
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1967
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Roy Hollett
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1968
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Brother of Peter (1965) and Robert (1961)
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Anthony Steedman
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1973
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Jerry Collins
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1973
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Frank Barker
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1974
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Brother of Joseph (1977) and Daniel (1982)
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Shane Smith
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1974
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Brother of Michael (1974) and Paul (1978)
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Michael Davis
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1974
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Brother of Jeffrey (1977) and Paul (1984)
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Shane Donoghue
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1985
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Son of Timothy (1961) dec. and brother of Stephen (1983) dec., Matthew (1988), Patrick (1993), Geoffrey (1992) and David (1998)
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Raymond Todd
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1969/1970
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Brother in law of Peter O'Meara dec. (1973)
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Brea Burland
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1980/1981
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Br Denis Sullivan
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Former Brother
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Worked at the College from 2003 - 2013
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Kathleen Grealy
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Past Mother
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Mother of Damien (1971), Marcus (1972 and Paul (1977) plus grandmother to Fergus (2000) and Thomas dec. (2002)
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Damian Gambley
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Past Father
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Father of Joshua (2019) and Aaron (2021)
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Thank you for reading the end of year edition of On College Hill. Should you have any feedback or wish to contribute to future editions, please contact the SLOBA Registrar at slcoldboys@slc.qld.edu.au.
