Welcome to our mid year Newsletter and the first formal communication for the year outside of our normal social media channels. 

In Ben Lowries' Principal Update, you will have read that Chris Leadbetter has accepted a permanent EREA role to oversee schools in South and Western Australia. While this presents an exciting opportunity for Chris, it also represents a significant loss for the College and the Old Boys. We extend our sincerest well wishes to Chris and express our heartfelt appreciation for his tremendous support to the Association, which have undoubtedly played an instrumental role in shaping our current position.

Congratulations to Pat Carroll OAM (1978) and Matt Young OAM (1983) on their Medal of the Order of Australia announced in the Australia Day Honours. Both for their strong community work. Selflessness in the Edmund Rice tradition.

The Association thrives on fostering connections, whether among fellow Old Boys, the College, or the broader community. At its core, this approach revolves around SLConX, SLOBACare, the Woody Cup and a multitude of Old Boy events (Concert/ Reunions) held throughout the year.

This year, we have organised three SLConX sessions with the primary objective of enhancing connections and providing an opportunity for Old Boys to share their invaluable career experiences with current students who aspire to follow a similar path. Now in its third year, each session of SLConX continues to grow in size, and we are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support we receive from the Old Boys community for these events. This year we cover;

• Design/Architecture/Built Environment; 
• Business/Finance/Accounting/Law; 
• IT/Cyber Security/Software Development/Web Design

This year also signifies the latest round of Hall of Fame nominations. Every two years, the Association conducts a formal process allowing for nominations to the College Hall of Fame. This process is exclusively for Old Boys, and the nominations are then forwarded to the College for review. We are delighted to announce that the College has accepted all three of our recommended candidates for induction. The induction ceremony will take place at the Old Boys Assembly in August during the Reunion Weekend festivities. More details about the three deserving recipients can be found in this Newsletter. The Old Boys are also pleased to support the latest College initiative, the Young Alumni Award. This Award recognises the achievements of Old Boys under the age of 30. The first recipient will also be announced at the Old Boys Assembly in August. 

The Woody Cup is now in its 8th year and also continues growth. This year, we welcomed AFL as a new addition to our line up of 9 other sports. Due to the high level of interest, we could field multiple teams for certain sports. The competition this year is has been intense, with the overall winner to be determined by the outcome of the final two events: Tennis and Touch Football. Additionally, we have introduced a new kit that is now worn during all matches. This kit will also be utilised for the Back to Runcorn Football and Touch events against Marist Ashgrove Old Boys.

We remain steadfast in our support of Old Boys in need through SLOBACare and our partnership with Mater@Home. Though the specific details may not be disclosed publicly, we extend our sincere gratitude to the Old Boys who consistently provide assistance and foster connections. Furthermore, we are constantly seeking opportunities to improve our services in order to better cater to the needs of our Old Boys. 

Just a reminder, the Reunion Weekend is on again in August. As Chris Leadbetter once said, it is the longest weekend in history. If you have not already registered for your reunion  (10-20-30-40-50-60) please do so ASAP. It also includes the traditional Seniors Lunch, Memorial Mass and Old Boys Assembly with the College (Hall of Fame/ Young Alumni of the Year and Woody Cup Presentations). There is so much to look forward to over 5 days. 

In the second half of this year, our primary focus will be on looking at ways to enhance our engagement with and expand our offerings to Old Boys. Additionally, we are pleased to announce the introduction of our new platform, the Jobs Board and Opportunities, which aims to connect Old Boys with valuable employment prospects. As part of this initiative, we will periodically share job opportunities on our Facebook page that have been received through the Lauries Community.

Thank you to all our Old Boys who give of their time throughout the year. Without your support there would not be an Association and we would not be fostering the strong connections with the College. Thank you to the Committee for their continued tireless efforts. To Helen Turner for her amazing support and the reason why we are able to engage and have so many wonderful events throughout the year.

Peter Wendt (1988)

Association President

The St Laurence’s Old Boys Foundation invests the donations it receives from Old Boys and from the rest of our growing donor community, and, from the earnings of those investments, each year provides a fee bursary gift to the College. This gift contributes to the College’s fee bursary program providing help for boys whose families are facing financial hardship so those boys can commence and/or continue at St Laurence’s College.

In 2023, the Foundation’s Gift to the College was, for the first time, a six figure amount, namely, $100,000, and, as I mentioned in last year’s December Newsletter, I would advise how that money was used by the College in 2024 to assist financially disadvantaged families in our Lauries community. The College Principal provided a summary to the Foundation Board of how the funds were used. The 2023 Foundation Gift provided $5,000 fee bursaries to 20 families doing it tough, comprising: boys with deceased parents (2), sons of Old Boys (2), other financially disadvantaged students (8), boys from indigenous families (3), and boys from refugee families (5).

In the last category, for example, in recent times, Foundation bursaries have been provided for two boys whose families fled from ISIS and were eventually granted residency in Australia. These boys arrived in Australia with limited English but flourished at Lauries. Another refugee lad arrived in Australia a few years ago after spending two years in a refugee camp with his family but who is now very much enjoying his Lauries journey.

These, and all the other many boys helped by the Foundation since 2006, were only able to be helped because of our donors. Since 2006 those donors have now helped the Foundation to gift $755,000 to the College, thus providing funding over this time for the provision by the College of the equivalent of some 150+ $5,000 fee relief bursaries to needy and well-deserving Lauries families to enable their boys to have their Lauries Journey. On behalf of all those families helped by the Foundation I very sincerely thank our donor community.

In closing, with the continuing support of Old Boys such as yourselves the Foundation will in turn be able to continue its Mission of helping financially disadvantaged boys to have their Lauries Journey and become proud Old Boys of our great College. If you would like to help deliver that Mission, donations can be made via the online payment portal HERE or please contact Helen Turner at the Development Office on development@slc.qld.edu.au or (07) 3010 1178.

It is only with your ongoing generosity that we will be able to continue to help more and more boys into the future.

Professor Emeritus Allan Layton (1971)

Foundation Chairman

Launch of the Young Alumni Award

St Laurence's College, in conjunction with the St Laurence's College Old Boys' Association, are excited to launch our newest award recognising young Old Boys and their positive contribution to society - the Young Alumni Award. 

Open to all Old Boys 30 years and younger at time of nomination, the award recognises those in our community who have demonstrated excellence in leadership, innovation and/or service, in either a professional or volunteer capacity. 

Further details award and nomination links are available online - https://links.yourschool.cloud/yaa Nominations close Monday 8 July!

Pat Carroll OAM (1978)

Congratulations to Old Boy Pat Carroll who was awarded the Order of Australia for services to the community, health and athletics.  For Pat it started off with the running group and then he had exposure to Camp Quality, which is the Australian Children's Cancer charity. So initially when people came to his group he wouldn’t charge them, he would simply ask for a gold coin donation to Camp Quality and that was the start of it. Then the internet was starting to get up and running and that made mass communication a lot easier and he decided to adopt a charity each year using the online facility with his running network. People would donate to the cause and Pat would put on a fancy dinner with an auction. He was the auctioneer and this raised money for charity. Money was donated to purchase motor vehicles, and hi-tech wheelchairs etc. This has been the practice for 20 years and has raised over $400,000 and it all goes to charity. Pat also often MCs events and willingly offer his services (free of charge) if the event is for a charity.

When asked what it meant to receive the OAM when talking to John Dinnen (1978) for a piece on the Old Boys FB page, Pat responded with "I channelled my energy into running because of my inner belief that I would be okay at it, and I experienced that feeling before I started the races I won. I then developed a desire to leave my mark on this world through running. The OAM encompasses my running career as well as my coaching, but also the community charity work that I have been involved in. The OAM is my mark, though I am not yet done". Pat Carroll, at 62 years of age is ranked the 7th fastest all-time Australian Marathoner with a time of 2.09.39. Yet, in many ways he’s a typical Lauries Old Boy, for him it’s not about his ego. He does the things he does because they are there to be done and his enjoyment in providing a service to the people around him are the key, and that sense of duty drives a self-confessed ‘loner’ to be a person who has gained the respect and love of the communities he serves. Career Highlights:

• 1st place – 1995 Beppu (Japan) Marathon (2:09:39)
• 4 time winner of the Gold Coast Marathon 83/84/88/97, where there was 14 years separating my first and fourth win
• 2 time winner (94/96) Sydney Morning Herald Half Marathon
• current holder of the Australian all comers record for the Half Marathon: 61min 11sec
• member of Silver Medal Australian Team @ 1993 World Half Marathon Championship
• awarded Australian Sports Medal
• one of Australia’s most versatile distance runners ever having run 3.39.03 for 1500 metre’s (3.56 mile) and also a 2:09:39 Marathon
• represented Australia 18 times
• finished in the top 8 at three Commonwealth Games
• 1988/1999 Australian Marathon Champion
• 1991 Australian Cross Country Champion
• twice runner up in Sydney’s City to Surf
• Qld record holder: Marathon 1988 – 2024 (36 years)
• Qld record hold: Half Marathon 1987 – 2022 (35 years)
• 7th fastest Australian Marathoner “all-time”

Thanks to John Dineen (1978) from which excerpts appear courtesy of an article for the Old Boys Association. 

Dr Matt Young OAM (1983) 

Congratulations to Old Boy Matt Young who was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Australia Day 2024 honours list for his contribution to community health.

Engaging in a life of service, Matthew co-founded the Kombi Van Clinic in 2017. This service has cured hundreds of people from lower socio- economic communities of hepatitis C throughout South East Queensland including prisoners in correctional facilities and vulnerable people who access Emmanuel City Mission. This ground breaking service has been internationally awarded for its successful treatment model. Matthew also established a medical practice at Inala in 2006, which was awarded the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners-Practice of the year in 2018 and HESTA Medical Team of the year 2018 for it’s service to the Inala community and the Kombi Van Clinic. Last year, Matthew founded the Medical Culture Club Charity to address the mental health of needs Queensland doctors. Creating a safe space for doctors to discuss their mental health concerns and practice pressures whilst attending cultural activities such as art lectures, exhibitions and theatre plays. 

Furthermore, Matthew founded the Ned Flanders Cricket Club in 1997, organising the team to play games against the national sides of Vanuatu, Japan, France (reigning Olympic Silver Medallists), South Korea, Morocco, Mexico, Belize, Argentina and Chile. Additionally, the team played against Gibraltar, Kowloon and the famous Compton Cricket Club of Los Angeles, USA. A bad toss to lose, the Flandersmen, many of whom are St Laurence’s College old boys, only lost one international game against Chile, there is talk of a rematch. The club achieved 21 local premierships in the Queensland Churches Cricket Competition. A passionate cricket player (tragic), Matthew has coached at South’s Junior Cricket Club since 2018. He has coached a number of St Laurence’s College students at the club including his son, Andrew Young, currently in year 9 at the college. A believer in creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere for junior players, Matt has coached South’s junior teams to premierships in MSW Flag Under 11 in 2020-21 and Warehouse Under 13 Division 1 in 2023.

Additionally, Matthew served as South’s Rugby Club doctor for 18 years, awarded Clubman of the Year in 2008 for his passion in caring for the players and community at South’s. Currently, Matthew is Chairman of the Camp Hill Infants and Primary School Council, senior lecturer at the University of Queensland Medical School (since 2000), a columnist writer for the Australian Medical Association Queensland, a general practitioner student and registrar tutor (including tutoring one Tom Leadbetter) and a guide for Jon Baines Medical Tours.

Thanks to Matt's wife Freya for compiling his amazing achievements. 

Congratulations to Luke Willian (2014) and Rowan Crothers OAM (2015) on their selection in the Australian team for the Paris Olympics and Paralympics respectively. 

Luke Willian (2014)

Luke will represent Australia in Triathlon in Paris. Luke has had an excellent year already having won the 2024 Oceania Triathlon Sprint Championships in Tasmania and a 3rd placing in the World Triathlon Cup in Yokohama which qualified him for the Olympics. Luke has also previously represented Australia at the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in 2018. 

He is currently ranked 13 in the World and leading the World Triathlon 2024 Championship Series.  Luke is also a member of the Elite Athletes’ Commission which offers guidance to the AusTriathlon Board on issues directly affecting elite athletes, furnishing leadership and direction in matters specifically related to their needs and concerns.

Rowan Crothers OAM (2015)

Rowan is off to another Paralympics in the S10 50m and 100m Freestyle. Paris will be Rowan's 3rd Paralympics and an opportunity to defend his 50m and 100m Freestyle Gold Medals. in 2022 Rowan was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for his services to the community and swimming. 

He has also been named Swimming Australia Paralympic Program Swimmer of the Year three times.

Good luck to both Luke and Rowan. 

This year, we have organised three SLConX sessions with the primary objective of enhancing connections and providing an opportunity for Old Boys to share their invaluable career experiences with current students who aspire to follow a similar path. 

Now in its third year, each session of SLConX continues to grow in size, and we are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support we receive from the Old Boys community for these events. This year we cover;

• Session 1: Design/Architecture/Built Environment;
• Session 2: Business/Finance/Accounting/Law;
• Sessions 3: IT/Cyber Security/Software Development/Web Design

Our first two sessions have been a resounding success. Thank you to the College and Helen Turner, Amy Dyer and Will Pike for their hard work and support to make the sessions successful. 

Both events have seen over 125 in attendance at each. A great turnout and big thank you to our first two sessions Old Boy guest speakers. Imparting their knowledge, experience and life journey is invaluable.  

Our third session takes place at the end of July. 

2023 Cohort Reunion

On Friday June 10, the College held a reunion for the Class of 2023. With 100 in attendance, the reunion provides an opportunity for our youngest Old Boys to reconnect with their peers and former teachers early in their transition outside of school, prompting healthy and constructive conversations.

Thank you to all that attended plus our Old Boy guest speakers, Corbin Dolan (2020) and Liam Trenow (2020) and the College for putting on this very important event. 

2024 Old Boys and Community Concert

It was a full house at St Ignatius Loyola Church Toowong in March for the much-anticipated Annual Old Boys' and Community Concert. The evening featured our talented Old Boys who performed an array of vocal, guitar, brass and strings numbers plus some musical pieces from our impressive Community Choir. Thank you to all the performers - we're thrilled that you continue to connect and share your talents with your fellow Old Boys and the wider Lauries community. Thanks to the College and Dr Anthony Young for making this event special every year.

Scott Sullivan (1989) - 10 Years On

Sometime in October 2010, Scott, a Lauries and Sunnybank Dragons Rugby tragic, was at work as a Senior Executive with Suncorp and upon making a cup of coffee he noticed a weakness in his hand, just like most of us blokes, he thought little of it. 

That is, until his wife, Sarah insisted he see a medical practitioner about the problem, and on Friday the 22nd of October, 2010 he was quickly diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, Scott was given a life expectancy of between 3-5 years. 

The story from that point onwards showed that Scott was an almost unstoppable force of nature. Within months of his diagnosis, Scott had set up the MND and Me Foundation, with two driving motivations, to contribute to the finding of a cure, and to ensure that no Queenslander should face Motor Neurone Disease alone, by assisting people living with MND to get what they need, when they need it, and at no cost.

Scott commenced operating the MND and Me Foundation in 2011, and within 12 months made a major donation of $50,000 to the University of Queensland’s Queensland Brain Institute to help find a cure for MND. Altogether, MND and Me have raised well in excess of $3 million dollars to assist people living with MND, a truly worthwhile cause.

Fact: At least one Australian is diagnosed and another dies from MND every day in Australia.

On Tuesday, the 29th of April, 2014 Scott passed away, sadly leaving his loving family, wife Sarah, and their children Abbey and Charlie, but Scott’s legacy will live on forever through the indelible memories and love that he has created for those near and dear to him.

Rather than attempt to do justice to Scott’s memory through telling his story on paper, it’s best that we hear it directly from the man himself, his wife Sarah and his children, Abbey and Charlie. Rest in Peace, Scott.

Heads-up: The two clips below are challenging, but the messages they contain are important.

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tr6jFySacFQ&t=321s
2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNjz9gZThH8

John Dinnen

Tickets are now available for the 2024 Old Boy Reunion Weekend! Milestone reunions will be held of for the 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 Year Reunions as well as the traditional Old Boy's Memorial Mass and Senior Old Boys' Luncheon.

Emails have been sent to the appropriate year levels, with further information also available on the Old Boys' website HERE. Links to purchase tickets or RSVP to the events are included below:

SATURDAY 24 AUGUST

Class of 2014 10 Year Reunion

Class of 2004 20 Year Reunion

Class of 1994 30 Year Reunion

Class of 1984 40 Year Reunion

Class of 1974 50 Year Reunion

SUNDAY 25 AUGUST

Old Boys' Memorial Mass

Senior Old Boys' Luncheon

TUESDAY 27 AUGUST

Class of 1967 60 Year and Class of 1954 70 Year Reunions

If there are any questions regarding the upcoming Old Boys' weekend, please contact Helen Turner on 07 3010 1178 or slcoldboys@slc.qld.edu.au. 

At the time of publication the Woody Cup VIII sits at 4-4 with only Tennis and Touch Football to be played. The matches has been very close and extremely competitive. Both matches are locked in so it is going to be a great last 2 contests.

Cricket: The traditional cricket match was postponed due to the weather but once it was pencilled in it was a T20 match. The First XI was bowled out for 108 after 17.5 overs. The Firsts were able to defend that score by bowling out the Old Boys in one of their lowest ever scores of 66.

Swimming: In the 4x50m relay the the College got in front and managed to touch the wall first. Another 10m and it may have been a different result. 

Volleyball: The Volleyball was again another closely fought contest with the Old Boys prevailing 17-15 in the 3rd set to take the win. The Old Boys also had the opportunity to present the First VI with their jerseys. 

Cross Country: This was a great win by the Old Boys. This was not an event we thought we could win but we had a 17 man strong team. However, since the advent of the Old Boys running group set up by our own VP John O'Brien (1998), our stocks have increased considerably. A highlight was the Jacobs family (Taz '12, Mark '83 and Henry '16) all competing along with the Rutherford's (Billy '17, Dale '98 and Finn in Year 5). Awesome!!

AFL: A new addition to the Woody Cup and Old Boy interest was very strong. The Old Boys prevailed 56-48 in a very tight contest on Gair Field. Woody Cup AFL is definitely here to stay.

Chess: A 7am start at the College is always a challenge, but thank you to William Bergin, Tanay Alburguerque, Keith Reid and Caleb Layton. The First IV managed a very solid win. 

Football: It was a torrid affair the Football with neither side giving an inch. The First XI coming off their AIC season and the Old Boys wanting to defend our penalty shoot-out victory from last year. In the end, the First XI prevailed with a 2-1 win in extra time. 

Basketball: The Old Boys came to play with a very sharp team. The Old Boys lead at every change to take the win 77-60. Good preparation for the First V ahead of the AIC season. And we wish them all the best.

A big thank you to all Old Boys who have made themselves available to play this year. If the result finishes at 5-5, the Old Boys will retain the Cup by virtue of having won it last year.  

Connor Iconomidis (2023)

Connor has signed with French Ligue 1 Youth team "Montrouge FC 92. Congratulations, a massive achievement Connor.  Ned Nouri (2023) also made his Senior debut this year in the Kappa Cup for the Lions and Tuquiri Beckett (2023) with the Brisbane Roar 23s. The Class of 2023 doing well. Congrats guys. 

Daniel O'Brien (2009)

Daniel was a finalist in the Australian Academy of Cinema, Television, Arts (AACTA) Awards for Best Original Score in Television. Daniel was nominated for Fisk - Episode 4.  Congratulations Daniel on your nomination and recognition within the industry. 

Geoff Lamb (1987)

At the same ACCTA Awards, Old Boy Geoff Lamb won Best Editing at the 2024 AACTA Awards for the movie “Talk to Me”. Brilliant work and congratulations Geoff on your award. The AACTA Awards (formerly the AFI Awards) have honoured screen excellence in Australia since the first AFI Awards were held in 1958.

Nick O'Connor (1993)

In May Nick O'Connor (1993) attending Government House to receive his Prince of Wales Award from Queensland Governor Dr Janette Young. The annual awards recognise the dedication of Australian Defence Force reservists and the valued support they receive from their civilian employers. Congratulations Nick!!

Jack Coomber (2023)

Congratulations to Jack on winning the Under 20 Australian Cross Country Championships in March. Jack then followed that up with a 31st placing (from 91) and the 1st Aussie home at the World U20 Cross Country Championships in Belgrade. Awesome effort Jack. He is now off to the US to study and train at Villanova College. 

Tommy Quinlivan (2003)

Congratulations to our resident Old Boys Touch team regular Tommy Quinlivan on his selection in the Men's 30s Australian Touch team. Touch Football Australia announced 13 Australian Emus teams for the 2024 Federation of International Touch (FIT) World Cup to be held in the UK from July 15 to 21.

Emmauel Meafou (2015)

Congratulations to Emmanuel Meafou (2015 would have been his Senior year cohort) who made his debut for France this year in the 6 Nations Rugby tournament. Emmanuel attended Lauries in Year 9 and 10 before moving to IGS. He received rave reviews on his performances. Hopefully it is the start of a wonderful international career.

Image Source: The Independent (UK)

Brisbane Marathon

What a result for Lauries Old Boys in the Brisbane Marathon in June. 3 Old Boys in the Top 10.

Kye Lowth (2023) finished 2nd overall (and 1st Australian across the line) with a time of 2:31:12.

Coen Harnischfeger (2014) finished 7th with a time of 2:43:07

Lachlan Clarkson (2022) finished 10th with a time of 2:48:00 and was second fastest in the 17-24 Age Group only behind Kye.

Noah Vojinov (2020)

Congratulations to Noah Vojinov on playing for the Queensland Indigenous Cricket team that competed in the National Championships in Darwin. Queensland Cricket also profiled Noah during National Reconciliation Week. 

Jordan O'Brien (2012)

Keeping with the Cricket theme, in May we profiled Jordan O'Brien (2012) who is a former First XI player (cap #455) who plies his trade in Finland. Jordan has gone onto represent Finland in T20 Internationals and plays in the European Cricket League. Congrats Jordan.

John Bryant (2020)

Former First XV Captain John Bryant (2020) made his Super Rugby debut this year for the Queensland Reds. John was also asked to take part in the train on squad for the Wallabies at the end of the Reds campaign. First year in and clearly on the radar of selectors for possible higher honours.

Hans Pearson (1986)

Congratulations to Old Boy Hans Pearson (1986) on being elected to the Rugby Australia Board at the AGM in April. Hans is a very successful businessman in his own right and will bring a wealth of knowledge to the role.

Facere et Docere in Action

In June the College staff gathered together for Mass, lunch and to recognise staff for their years of service. 

• 53 staff were recognised for 5-9 years of service. 
• 29 staff were recognised for 10-14 years of service
• 15 staff were recognised for 15-19 years of service
• 8 staff were recognised for 20-24 years of service
• 5 staff were recognised for 25-29 years of service

The College also celebrated Mark Wockner (31 years), Ross Capern (32 years), Angelina Ellis (33 years), Damian Reidy (33 years) and Shane Appleton (36 years).

A special mention to Old Boy Anthony Samios (1980) on 40 years of commitment to the Lauries community including the Old Boys. Sam is a current Committee Member and Honorary Life Member of the Association. Some would say  even the spiritual leader of the Old Boys. Thank you Sam. 

Thank you for your wonderful service. 

We also often see Old Boys helping out at the College through coaching teams, SLConX, Woody Cup and coming back to speak to the boys. 

For example, students Marco Famorca and Yamato Fukuchi had the opportunity to accompany Dr Matt Young OAM (1983) and Dr Joss O’Lean to Emmanuel City Mission and support their charity the ‘Hep C Kombi’. The opportunity is designed to provide exposure to community medicine and foster a deeper understanding of the healthcare profession. This will be a regular opportunity for our students interested in a career in Medicine, Nursing and Paramedicine.

It was fantastic to have Old Boy Calvin Xu (2014) speak to the International Students. Calvin spoke about his own Lauries Journey as an International Student touching on his English development, his growing friendship group, his co-curricular pursuits including his First V Basketball selection and graduating as College Dux.

Calvin then touched on life after Lauries, where he spoke about graduating from his Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine from Griffith University with a distinction and his future plans.

Calvin concluded by giving the boys a few tips and tricks for their own Lauries Journey - the College thanked Calvin for his time and congratulated him on all of his success!

Old Boy Dr Matt Young OAM (1983) was at it again, this time with Lucky Peterson (2010) speaking to the Year 12 students about the dangers of gambling. It was a powerful presentation that resonated strongly with the boys. 

Australian Education Awards

The College has been named an Excellence Awardee for the Winc Education Secondary School of the Year (Non-Government) at the 2024 Australian Education Awards. The represents the Top 8 schools in Australia which is a massive achievement. The Awards Ceremony takes place in August.

Spirit of Catholic Education Awards

Congratulations to the following College staff who have been nominated for a Spirit of Catholic Education Award: Vanessa Bell, Ross Capern, Nataleen Kilburn, James McLauchlan and Kelsey Doyle The Spirit of Catholic Education Awards are presented annually in conjunction with Catholic Education Week to celebrate outstanding contributions to Catholic education in Queensland. Nominees have been recognised across a number of categories for excellence in their work including leadership, service, initiative and creating positive change for Indigenous students. 

Australian Education Awards

The College has been named an Excellence Awardee for the Winc Education Secondary School of the Year (Non-Government) at the 2024 Australian Education Awards. The represents the Top 8 schools in Australia which is a massive achievement. The Awards Ceremony takes place in August.

Spirit of Catholic Education Awards

Congratulations to the following College staff who have been nominated for a Spirit of Catholic Education Award: Vanessa Bell, Ross Capern, Nataleen Kilburn, James McLauchlan and Kelsey Doyle The Spirit of Catholic Education Awards are presented annually in conjunction with Catholic Education Week to celebrate outstanding contributions to Catholic education in Queensland. Nominees have been recognised across a number of categories for excellence in their work including leadership, service, initiative and creating positive change for Indigenous students. 

Cultural Update

It’s been an exciting semester for the College’s musicians, with many wonderful performances across the board. Throughout the semester, the College community enjoyed our Junior Ensembles Concert, Strings Recital, Piano Recital, Intermediate Ensembles Breakfast Concert and the much-anticipated Cabaret Concert.

These performances were an opportunity for students to showcase their skills and talents in front of an audience.

Some of musicians attended vocal, strings and guitar workshops throughout the semester, hosted by professional musicians who generously gave their time to pass on their expert knowledge. These workshops were very well received and it’s been exciting to see the skills learned being put into practice.

In Term 3, there will be many more opportunities for students to refine their skills in preparation for exams and even more performances!

Callan House named 2024 House Choir champions

On Thursday 7 June, the now annual House Choir competition took place at the College. In a hotly contested event, Callan House walked away victorious. Congratulations to all students who were involved.

Sporting Update 

It has been another very busy period of sport for the College through the first 2 terms of the year.  A summary table is also provided below.

AFL - The College took out the Aggregate for 7th consecutive year. The First XVIII shared the premiership with Marist Ashgrove and Padua. Lauries Premiership hopes rested on a last round win over Padua which they were able to do in a very tense and close match 37-29.

Swimming - The College again competed will in the Annual AIC Swimming Championships with 4th place overall. Not a bad effort when you consider most other schools have their own pool. Again St Peter's edged out Marist Ashgrove with Villanova 3rd. 

Volleyball - Another successful season with the College securing 2nd place in the Aggregate which included 6 premierships. The First VI finished 6th in a very tight competition. Iona College again took out the Aggregate (not one team finished lower than 2nd - great achievement) and 1st VI Premiership.

Cross Country - Back on the up and again a fantastic 3rd place overall. Back to back 3rd placings for the Men in Black. Marist Ashgrove and Iona College were 1st and 2nd respectively. Lauries had podium placings in Year 5 & 6 and 12 & 16 years. 12 & 16 years also won their age groups.

Chess - Again another very close competition between St Peter's, Lauries and Marist Ashgrove with the Aggregate finishing in that order. The Junior A and B sides both won premierships. The First IV finished runners up to St Peter's. Lauries and St Peter's drew their round clash and it looked like a joint premiership was on the cards, however, Marist Ashgrove had other ideas and were able to win their Round 6 clash. St Peter's finished outright winners in the First IV.

Football - An incredible season saw Lauries and Marist Ashgrove tie for the Aggregate. A record 229 teams across AIC competed in 2024. Lauries and Marist Ashgrove have claimed 20 titles between them since the inception of AIC. Marist Ashgrove also took out the First XI with the winner only being known upon completion of the final round. Lauries won 7 premierships in all and runners up in 5 others.

Rugby - Lauries finished 4th in the Aggregate behind Marist Ashgrove, Iona College and Villanova. Premierships were had with the 7As and 9As. The 7As only conceding 3 tries all season. The First XV were looking for their 5th consecutive premiership. Unfortunately it was not to be. A loss to Marist Ashgrove on their Reunion Weekend followed by a narrow loss to Padua in the final round at Runcorn, meant the team finished the season in a very commendable 2nd.   

Representative Honours Snippets 

Athletics - Terrell Thorne was selected in the Australian 2024 World Athletics Under 20 Championships in August in Peru. This was off the back of him winning the U20 400m at the National Championship. Cameron Evetts also competed at the Nationals in the U20s Decathlon coming 9th overall. Not bad for a young bloke. Ethan Parravicini won bronze in the U13 long jump and javelin at the Qld Championships. 

Rugby - Five of the 1st XV were named in the Courier Mail AIC team of the season. Five of the team also made the Mest East Representative side. Ben Davis, Huw Griffiths and Xavier Santos of the First XV were named in the Queensland Schools team to contest the National Championships in July. First XV also won the Ballymore Cup in April defeating Downlands in the Final.

Football - the Year 7 team won the Year 7 EREA Football Tournament. The Open team came runners up. 

AFL - Lachlan Ellen named in the Qld Under 15 side. Jackson Bush named in the Qld Under 12 side. Six boys represented Met East at the 13-15 years carnival along with coach Mr Josh Ferguson. 

Ethan Duke, Lachlan Ellen, Cooper Hodge and Harry Thomson were named in the Brisbane Lions Academy Level 2 Squad. Will Munro was named in the Brisbane Lions Academy Level 3 squad.

Cross Country - Hugh Jones-Sheppard and Oscar McKean placed second and third at the Open Met East Regional Trials. Lachlan Gordon won the U12's Met East event. 

Karate -Hayden Reyes has been selected to represent Australia at the Commonwealth Karate Championships.

Water Polo - Victor Ivanov was selected in the Queensland U13 Water Polo team. Kairo Lynch was named in the Qld All Stars team and the Queensland Schools team in May. Eddie Pilgram-Cowan was selected in the 2024 15&U Performance Program in July. 

Gymnastics - Year 10 student Zaeyan Woodall came first in Australia in the Round National Champion Level 8 Open MAG Gymnastics and was awarded the highbar and parallel bars Australian Champion. 

Tennis - Four members from the Performance Tennis Squad competed in the Open Qld Secondary Schools Teams Tennis Competition and placed 3rd overall. Hayden Revell competed in the Premier 10k Opal Advice 92nd Toowoomba Easter Gold Cup winning the Men's singles without dropping a set over 3 days of competition.

Swimming - Javier Foster competed in the Australian Age Swimming Championships for the 100m Freestyle placing 23rd overall. 

Surf Lifesaving - Coby Clarke represented Qld at the Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships at Easter. Coby finished 7th in the U15 2km surf race.

Table Tennis - Stanley Cham won gold medals in the U17 boys team, U17 Boys single and multiple silver and bronzes in other U17 and U19 events. He was also awarded the President's Shield based on athletic performance during the tournament. 

Cricket - Gus Jones-Sheppard was awarded the best male representative for BEARS cricket; an award that spans across U12 to U16 age groups. 

Applications are now open for current Year 3 boys to apply for entry into St Laurence's College in Year 5 2026.

Spaces are in high demand with sons of Old Boys having preference.

Applications are requested by Friday 5 July via the below link.

While the end of financial year may have passed for 2024, Old Boys are still welcome to donate to our two tax-deductible entities: 

OLD BOYS FOUNDATION - supporting financially vulnerable families receive an education at St Laurence's College

BUILDING FUND - assisting with building and infrastructure works at the College

Further information on both entities can be found online HERE with links to donate to both entities available below.

On behalf of the students your gift will assist, thank you!

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

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.