As we tune into the global festival of sport that is the Paris Olympics, it is gratifying to engage in something that brings all corners of humanity into a shared common space; even when there is so much division and conflict in the world.
This year we are blessed once more with a good number of St Peters Old Scholars and students to cheer for in Paris. All amazing athletes and we are so proud of them all.
Having a St Peters representation in this penultimate international competition gives us all a vicarious connection to something greater. It goes back to Shane Gould in 1972. We are indeed united by our desire to see our country and the people with whom we are connected, do well. Together, we revel in the contest, prepared to forfeit sleep and share the highs and lows with bleary eyes the next day. It is their sacrifices that are to be admired - and we are collectively proud of the efforts that got them there.
Regardless of the medal colours and placings, we should treat those two imposters – Triumph and Disaster just the same, and give true recognition where it is due, in the doing. Knowing that the best has been given and that unforgiving minute has been given a full sixty seconds worth of distance run.
We wish all our students and alumni the greatest of success in all their endeavours and applaud our entire community in their diverse chosen fields when they lean in, turn up and “give it a red-hot go”. We take delight in the quality of the effort and the desire to push the envelope. This is not tribalism; this is supporting all our brothers and sisters. It is about being good citizens of the world and respectfully acknowledging all comers.
Go St Peters! and good luck to the rest of the world too! 😊
Llewellyn Jones (1983) SPOSA President
From the SPOSA Office
SPOSA's Update
It's been a whirlwind few months for the SPOSA office as we welcomed over 100 Old Scholars and guests to the 2024 June Reunion Weekend.
It was a fantastic weekend filled with rekindling old memories and forging new connections. Check out the detailed recap and photos below.
We also celebrated Back to Ironbark Day, marking 50 years since the start of the pilot program. The event saw over 200 attendees, including current students, past staff and Old Scholars, some going back to the program's inception in 1974.
Looking ahead, SPOSA is excited to be involved in several upcoming events, including Trivia Night, SPOSA Tennis Tournament, Boys Basketball Old Scholars vs 1st V game and Carols Under the Stars to end the year. There's plenty of fun to be had, and opportunities to reconnect so be sure to get involved!
Amanda Osborne Alumni and Archives Officer
Your 2024 SPOSA Committee
The 2024 AGM was held on 9 June and the following committee members are back for another year of service. Get to know these committed individuals below who are steering SPOSA forward.
We’re always eager to welcome fresh faces to our committee meetings, so if you’re an Old Scholar who enjoys community and collaboration, don’t hesitate to reach out to the SPOSA office. Your input and presence could make all the difference!
Llewellyn Jones - Class of 1983 Llewellyn has been the President of SPOSA for the last five years, where he leads the team and enthusiastically supports the various activities designed to build the
Llewellyn Jones (1983) SPOSA President
profile of the Association. Llewellyn’s wife Tania is the daughter of an Old Scholar (Peter Steinmuller 1959), and they have two children; Tristan (2020), and Indigo, currently in Year 11.
Llew attended St Peters as a boarder while his family lived in Hong Kong and Buderim. Overcoming initial homesickness, he cherished his time at the College participating in choirs, tours, the Ironbark program, and made lifelong friendships.
He went on to study economics at the University of Queensland (UQ), living on campus at Kings College. Active in College life, he joined the Army Reserve and later moved to Sydney to work for Qantas. His career in airline management has taken him across the country, and around the world, specialising in operations management, business resilience, and project management. He currently manages the Virgin Airport Operation at Brisbane. He is also a member of Martial Arts Queensland, so nobody messes with him!
Rowena Lester (Fulton) - Class of 1991 Rowena has been SPOSA Vice President for nearly five years and joined to give back to the College she loves.
Rowena Lester (1991) SPOSA Vice President
She also worked as the SPOSA Alumni Officer for four years driving some exciting programs to attract the young and energetic newest Old Scholars to membership. After finishing St Peters in 1991, Rowena went on to study a Bachelor of Business, Banking & Finance with QUT, and completed post graduate study in Applied Finance and Investment while working at Macquarie Bank.
Row worked with Macquarie for over 10 years before becoming a mum. Row and her husband, David, have three children, who have all attended St Peters from Prep. Emily is in Year 12, and twins Josh and Caitlin are in Year 9. Over the last five and a half years, Rowena has worked in a variety of part time roles at the College, including SPOSA, Music Department and Academic Hub. Row and her family love to spend time at the beach and their favourite holidays are spent snow skiing together whenever possible. Row still loves to swim and be involved in music, two of her passions developed while she attended St Peters. Rob Barber – Class of 1990 Rob has been SPOSA’s Vice President for two years and previously served as P&F President for several years.
Rob Barber (1991) SPOSA Vice President
During his time at St Peters, he excelled at tennis and a highlight included the Ironbark program where he learnt much about himself. After graduation, he built a successful career in Industrial Relations and Human Resources across a number of industry sectors, primarily major construction projects and electrical contracting. He has also been an advisor to government bodies and served on the board of directors of an Industry Superannuation Fund and a not-for-profit organization.
Rob's daughter was a St Peters Prefect graduating in 2022, and his son is currently in Year 10. He's passionate about giving back to the College community and recognises that his time at St Peters played a substantial part of who he is today. Some of his proudest moments in providing service to the College includes launching the Find Your Future campaign, developing alignment between SPOSA and the P&F, and proposing that Carols Under the Stars becomes more of a family fair (a little like the Herbsfest of years gone by). Rob is committed to the continuous improvement and longevity of SPOSA and encourages others to get involved. Anne Fulton – Class of 1988 Anne has been the Secretary of SPOSA for the past four years and has just been re-elected for a fifth.
Anne Fulton (1988) SPOSA Secretary
She looks forward to more great promotional opportunities for SPOSA and events attended by both recently graduated and seasoned SPOSA members.
Anne splits her working life across two careers: firstly, as a professional opera singer performing both nationally and internationally on opera and concert stages with various prominent arts organizations including Opera Australia, Opera Queensland, Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Underground Opera, Canticum Chamber Choir, Camerata, and the Brisbane Chorale. Anne’s second job is Resource Planner for the APAC East PMO in the Division of Information Systems and Technology at Rio Tinto, a company for which she has worked for almost 20 years. Anne was one of a small number of her Year 12 cohort in 1988 who completed a full 12 years at St Peters starting in Year 1 in the Junior School. Anne particularly remembers the honour of being made a prefect in her final year as well as many happy years she spent in the music program being a member of Chorale, Madrigal Choir, Symphonic Winds and as a singer with the Stage Band. She also fondly remembers being part of the girls’ swim team who went on to win the GPS (now QGSSSA) Swimming Championship title for the very first time! She is proud of the amazing school St Peters is and always keen to encourage younger old scholars to be patriotic too and become involved in SPOSA after Year 12. They are our future and Saints for Life!
Simon Gideon (Mafi) – Class of 1994 Simon is the rare jewel of any committee – the treasurer, the one who succumbed to all the cajoling and flattery that the committee threw at him during his first year when he joined in 2023.
Simon Gideon (1994) SPOSA Treasurer
The fact he is the only person who can actually use a calculator is a bonus. His experience and background in bookkeeping stands him in good stead for this important role for SPOSA.
Simon has worked for the Department of Child Safety, Seniors and Disability Services for 17 years and is currently Manager, Data Analytics and Reporting. He also spends a great deal of his time giving back to the community. He has been involved in St John Ambulance (Qld) for more than 20 years and is a member of the Order of St John and he has been heavily involved with the Australia Volunteer Coast Guard in a variety of roles and is currently the National Registered Training Organisation Manager.
Simon decided to get involved with SPOSA after attending the reunion weekend in 2023 and his nephew (Simon Mafi) will be starting at St Peters in the Prep program soon.
Margaret Curnow OAM (Neumann) – Class of 1960 Margaret is the current SPOSA Patron and has been a member since 1961. Joining the committee in 1965, she served until 1975, and upon returning to Brisbane in 1985, became the President of the Association.
Margaret Curnow (1960) SPOSA Patron
Notably, Margaret holds the record as the longest-serving member of the SPOSA executive, displaying tireless enthusiasm in her roles as committee member, Bulletin coordinator, treasurer, secretary, vice-president, and president. She also contributed to the SPOSA section of ‘Upon This Rock,’ documenting life members, committee members, and Bursary winners.
Her journey began on Umboi Island Lutheran Mission, Papua New Guinea, with her education at St Peters starting in 1957. Despite being dismissed from her first teaching job for marrying her beloved late husband William Curnow (AM FRAIA), Margaret channelled her determination into a nearly three-decade-long career in special education. Her dedication to Queensland children with complex needs has transformed many lives.
Margaret's deep gratitude to St Peters for shaping her youth has fuelled her lifelong commitment to giving back to the College. Her involvement in past events such as the SPOSA Garden Party and Hebstfest has endeared her to Old Scholars from various years. Known as the SPOSA ‘historian’, Margaret remembers countless families, students, teachers, and parents associated with the College.
Last year, Margaret was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her contributions to special education and her unwavering voluntary commitment to SPOSA and the Lutheran Church.
Cassandra Sun – Class of 1991 Cassandra started the St Peters journey in 1980 in Year 1 and attended until finishing Year 12 in 1991. She has a Bachelor of Regional and Town Planning from UQ
Cassandra Sun (1991)
and worked for private consulting, the Qld state government and Brisbane City Council (BCC).
Cass been at BCC for over 20 years predominantly dealing with inner city development. She married in 2007 and her twins Alexander and Charlotte are in Year 7 at St Peters.
Cassandra has been on the SPOSA committee since 2019. She enjoys continuing as part of the St Peters community through her children, volunteering and contributing by being a part of the SPOSA committee. She has made lifelong friendships from her time at St Peters and now has made wonderful friends through meeting other parents as well. SPOSA is an amazing way for people to stay connected. Julie Ross (Hillman) - Class of 1969 Julie was a boarder during her time at St Peters and has had an intimate knowledge and connection with the College and its community.
Julie Ross (1969)
Appointed as SPOSA’s inaugural Alumni Officer in 1992, Julie played a pivotal role in fostering alumni relations until 1998, under Headmaster Dr Carson Dron and Director of Development John Noble. She organised many significant events, including initiating the three-day Reunion Weekend which still exists today, expanded peer year reunion groups, and introduced Grandparents Day to the Junior School. Julie also established the first Founders Day event during the College’s 50th anniversary celebration in 1995, tracking down and inviting many of the founding students.
Before moving to England in 1999, she briefly worked at Anglican Church Grammar School (Churchie) in alumni relations. In the UK, she served as the regional SPOSA representative, organising events such as the St Peters Reunion Drinks at Queensland House in London in 2002. While in England, Julie worked at Strodes College, contributing valuable insights from her St Peters experience, and earning a Certificate in Humanities from the Open University UK.
Julie's career began with the Papua New Guinea Department of Education and Ansett Airlines, later transitioning to education administration at Melbourne University in 1973. Upon returning to Brisbane in 1991, her three children attended St Peters: Jennifer White (1996), James Dalrymple (1999) and Justine Dalrymple (2001) and has grandchildren Isabel in Year 8 and Olivia in Year 5, creating a multi-generational legacy. Today, with life now centred around St Peters, for Julie it has been like coming home, returning to the fold and she remains active in alumni activities, looking forward to SPOSA's involvement in St Peters 80th anniversary celebrations.
David Jones – Class of 1969 With a strong faith from a young age, David’s parents sent him to St Peters Lutheran College, never really setting any academic standards above ordinary, but enjoyed school, tennis and Scouts.
David Jones (1969)
In early 1969, his girlfriend said … you should be in Holy Orders. Stupidly, he and Vicki went separate ways, taking another 32 years to reconnect. Meanwhile, he married, raised two wonderful children, worked in studio and aerial photography, then as a building consultant and contractor in his own business for twenty years. Vicki and David reconnected in 2002-2003, moving to Perth to be with her and re-engaged with their faith. In 2006, he returned to Brisbane, recommenced studies and was priested in 2013, all while working in media advertising sales, first in ham radio and sales publications, and the last 20 years in defence media.
David was asked to accept the episcopy in 2021, and needing a big church, he turned to Bp Paul of the Lutheran Church, and with the assistance of the Head of College and the Board, was permitted to use the Chapel of St Peter, which he had watched being built. It was a privilege to have Julie Ross, Ivan Schindler and Louise Friedman, three old classmates, join them on the day.
So now David returns to school and serve on the SPOSA Committee to give back. Life is a circle, and we all come back, in one way or another. The privilege lies in serving. May the Peace of the Lord be always with you.
Bradley Porter – Class of 1975 Bradley’s journey began at St Peters, where he started in Year 8 in 1971 and graduated in Year 12 in 1975.
Bradley Porter (1975)
His career kicked off with brief stints in a furniture factory and a local real estate company, where he quickly made a mark by securing a significant transaction.
He then managed a photographic kiosk at Indooroopilly Shopping Town, where he met his first wife. Bradley’s career took a pivotal turn in 1982 when he joined the State Government. Over the next few decades, he navigated various roles, including managing a photographic library, and eventually found himself at Qld Property Management, where he remained until his retirement in 2021.
In 2002, an invitation to be the best man at a wedding took him to Papua New Guinea. What was meant to be a short trip turned into a life-changing adventure. Bradley moved to PNG in 2003, met Edith, his third wife, and they’ve had two daughters since 2022. He often reflects on how St Peters played a crucial role in these serendipitous events.
Bradley’s bond with St Peters remains strong. He has been involved with the College ever since attending his 20th reunion in 1995. He returned to Australia from PNG in 2005 and joined the SPOSA committee that same year serving as President for a year in 2014.
Zoe Truesdell (Wihardjo)– Class of 1998
Zoe Truesdell (1998)
During her short time at St Peters, Zoe was a boarder at Finger House and participated in a variety of extra -curricular activities such as Toastmasters and Multi-cultural events.
She has a dual degree in Hotel Management and Business and worked on the Gold Coast before relocating abroad to Jakarta where she volunteered with various animal charities.
Her daughter Inara is currently a student in Year 9. Zoe joined SPOSA in 2023 and is keen to continue as a committee member for a second year as she enjoys giving back to a community she has been part of since she started at the College in 1997.
Karel Baum – Class of 1976 Karel has been a SPOSA committee member since 1996 when she helped organise the 20th reunion for her Class of 1976.
Karel Baum (1976)
She has maintained a strong link with the College as a member of staff (1996-2000) in the Science Department under the supervision of Barry Jahnke, maintaining the plant nursery, rainforest and beehives.
A long-term volunteer at community radio station 4MBS she has enjoyed musical connections from her days at the College. She brings with her an eye for detail and dedication to volunteering for the Association and is committed to the continuation and building the profile of SPOSA to all Old Scholars.
Jennifer White (Dalrymple) - Class of 1996 Jennifer attended St Peters as a day scholar from 1991 to 1996. Her highlights included the Mt Binga outdoor education experience and courses the College offered in Film and TV, art and drama, which significantly influenced her career path.
Jennier White (Dalrymple 1996)
Jennifer’s family has a rich history at St Peters: her mother Julie (1969), brother James (1999), and sister Justine (2002) are all Old Scholars. Her daughters, Isabel (Year 8) and Olivia (Year 5), are now proudly third-generation students.
Jennifer earned a Bachelor of Built Environment (Interior Design) from QUT. She then lived and worked in London for a decade, returning to Australia in 2009 with her English husband. She had always hoped to provide her children with the transformative experience of Mt Binga or Ironbark when she enrolled them. Returning to St Peters as a parent was emotional but felt like coming home. Her children are thriving, particularly in creative arts and music.
With 24 years of experience as a commercial interior designer, her expertise includes interior design, refurbishment strategy, and industry connections. Jennifer has worked in London and Brisbane, focusing on education design for the last 14 years. She currently works at Hayball Architects and is passionate about the impact of design on educational outcomes.
Jennifer joined the committee to give back to the St Peters’ community through arts and events assistance, mentoring, career advice, and work experience opportunities.
Phillip Woo - Class of 1975 Born in Papua New Guinea in 1956, Phillip’s early years were spent in Lae until 1969. From 1969 to 1975, Phillip attended St Peters Lutheran College as a full-time boarder, completing Year 7 through 12.
Phillip Woo (1975)
During this period, his siblings, Benjamin, Tania, and Eunice, also attended St Peters at various times. He repeated grade 10, which was a challenging but formative experience.
From 1975 to 1981, Phillip married and welcomed two daughters into the world, who have since blessed him with six wonderful grandchildren. Phillip’s professional journey began in warehouse capacities with ANI Komatsu from 1981 to 2001, initially in Sherwood, Brisbane area before moving to Mackay. In 2022, he returned to Brisbane from Mackay. Currently Phillip works full-time with Aidacare, where he is part of a dedicated team handling maintenance and service store operations. Additionally, he has had many years of volunteering with various organisation, before joining Aidacare.
While he initially struggled with boarding school, it eventually became a significant and positive part of his life.
Gwen Lewerissa – Class of 1973 Gwen is very pleased to be giving back to the College that provided many opportunities during her six years as a boarding student and is keen to see the SPOSA connection with Old Scholars continue and grow. She joined the committee just over a year ago to stay informed and to play an active role in reestablishing connections and renewing old friendships.
What's On
SPOSA Tennis Tournament
Sign up for our SPOSA Tennis Tournament on 18 August from 2:00pm.
Come and join us for an exciting and fun-filled tennis event. Whether you are an experienced player or a beginner, this is an opportunity to showcase your skills and enjoy a fantastic day of friendly competition.
Have you organised a team for the annual Trivia Night? With the Paris Games on everyone's newsfeed, let's embrace the sporting spirit! Join us as the fabulous Kat Feeney returns as our fearless MC leading us through general knowledge trivia, games and loads of fun!
We're looking forward to seeing your creative take on the sporting theme - whether it's a nod to historic athletes, a participating country, your favourite sport or your unique interpretation - there are so many options!
When: Saturday 17 August - doors open at 6:00pm Where: Café 45 Tickets: Tables of 8 ($320.00) or Individual tickets ($40.00)
BYO Food, EFTPOS bar + plenty of prizes to be won including Best Dressed Male & Female, Best Table Decor
As we do every year, the winning table will choose the charity to whom we donate $1,000.00. Take your marks and get set for Trivia Night! Book via the link https://bit.ly/p-f-and-sposa-t...
Save the Date
SAVE THE DATE!
Boys Basketball Old Scholars vs 1st V: 12 August 2024 at 5:30pm.
The Old Scholar versus 1st V game promises to be a showdown for bragging rights. Come experience the 2024 1st V team as they face off against the formidable Old Scholar champions from previous years. Don't miss what will be an game!
Carols Under the Stars – 24 November 2024
Reunion News
2024 Reunion Weekend Recap
Thanks so much to everyone who travelled near or far to join us for the SPOSA Reunion Weekend 2024.
Reunion Weekend was a remarkable one as we got to reconnect with our returning Old Scholars from the celebrating classes of ‘54, ‘59 ‘64, ‘69, 74, '89, '94, and '99! Those not listed here have organised separate reunions including 1984, 1999, 2004 and 2014.
This Reunion Weekend was a heartwarming testament to the enduring impact of a St Peters education, where cherished memories and lifelong friendships continue to flourish across continents and generations.
The celebrations started on Friday 7 June during lunchtime in the Centre for Learning and Innovation (CLI) as SPOSA participated in the Community Focus Day with fun activities and awareness initiatives for Junior High and Senior School. SPOSA held a display with memorabilia and handed out cupcakes to raise the profile of the St Peters Old Scholars Association. It was wonderful to see so many students getting behind their community and supporting these groups in their passion and service. Thank you to Rowena Lester (1991) and Margaret Curnow (1960) for helping to promote SPOSA to our future ‘Saints for Life’!
On Friday night, the weekend commenced for the Old Scholars with drinks and canapes at the SPOSA Café in the CLI, followed by an incredible concert by St Peters Strings titled ‘A Midsummer Nightmare’ in the Dron Auditorium, Performing Arts Centre.
On Saturday, the campus was buzzing as various peer years reconnected and reminisced during SPOSA’s planned activities, which included Songs of Praise with Chaplain Kirstin Muchenberg, followed by a tour of the College and a group photo in the CLI. A delicious lunch served by St Peters’ own Chef Chris and his team was enjoyed by over 100 Old Scholars representing Peer Years from 2004 through to 1954 while honouring the Golden (1974), Diamond (1964) and Platinum (1954) years with badges and certificates presented by SPOSA President Llewellyn Jones (1983). It was very special to have Robin Kleinschmidt, St Peters Deputy Head (1970-1978) and Acting Head of College (1978-1980), attend the reunion this year.
A Church service in the P&F Centre on Sunday concluded Reunion Weekend, followed by the AGM, where reports from the past year were shared and future plans made.
Thank you to all the SPOSA committee members who assisted in the lead up to the event and volunteered their precious time over the weekend.
Despite ongoing disruptions to the Chapel (renovations) and main Campus (Campus heart redevelopment) the SPOSA spirit ever onwards and upwards shone brightly through us all and we look forward to celebrating with our wonderful Old Scholar groups next year in what will be a special 80th anniversary for St Peters.
Recent Events
A Day of Nostalgia and Celebration: Ironbark's 50th Anniversary
St Peters recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of its renowned outdoor education program, Ironbark, with a special Back to Ironbark Day on 7 July. The event was a great success, drawing over 200 Old Scholars, past staff and some current students for a day of activities, shared stories and nostalgia.
The program started with a welcome from Head of College Tim Kotzur and Ironbark Director Matthew Sullivan. Early arrivals were treated to a morning tea, while a BBQ awaited those who stayed through lunchtime. Reverend Maurice Fielke and past Director David Hiscock held presentations in the Bush Chapel, and Barry Jahnke, one of Ironbark's founders, was honoured with the naming of a paddock after him—a gesture that filled him with pride.
Our Old Scholars enjoyed the freedom to explore Ironbark, reminiscing about their past experiences and reconnecting with peers from their year groups. They also had the unique opportunity to revisit the projects they had worked on during their time at Ironbark, marvelling at the growth and changes the property has undergone thanks to the contributions of countless student groups over the years. One Old Scholar, Yanina Hughes (1982), shared her thoughts, “We had a brilliant day reliving our time at Ironbark. The staff looked after us brilliantly. It was lovely to be surrounded by ‘lovers’ of Ironbark, all there at different times, but knowing we had all had similar experiences. It was amazing and gave me a wonderful feeling of being.”
The day was a beautiful tribute to Ironbark's legacy, bringing together generations of students who have been shaped by this unique and transformative program.
Thank you to those who kindly shared their photos from the day.
Concert by Mark Pradella’s Band Delights St Peters Community
In early June, the St Peters Performing Arts Centre (PAC) came alive with the sounds of Mark Pradella’s Band as they launched their album ‘That’s the Way of the World’ in a special free concert open to the entire St Peters community.
Mark Pradella, St Peters music department's co-ordinator of Woodwind, alongside his talented band together with current students and Old Scholars, has recorded 18 tracks live at the Brisbane Jazz Club. The Old Scholars included Zoe Catchpoole (2020), Will Toft (2013) as vocalists, Alex Gilfedder (2023) on trumpet, flugel horn and percussion, Hal Chandler on Bass (2016), Sam Catchpoole(2023), Florence Miller-Metzner (2023), Gerald Yeung, Andrea du Prex (2023) all on violin, and Thomas Allan (2023) on cello. The album has received fantastic reviews from music educators Jacki Cooper and John Morrison, as well as ABC radio and 101FM.
The concert featured an array of musical talent from Pete Vance and Friends, an 8-piece strings section, and special guests. The audience enjoyed a diverse setlist, from classics such as “My Funny Valentine” to funky tunes including “Just the Two of Us,” and ‘Friday Night at the Cadillac Club” which had everyone up on their feet dancing.
All proceeds from the event supported the St Peters Music Department. A heartfelt thank you to Mark Pradella, our Old Scholars and current students for such an enjoyable evening. We look forward to hearing more from you in the future!
SPOSA Sponsors the Annual St Peters You’ve Got Talent (SPYGT) Competition
St Peters You’ve Got Talent (SPYGT) is the College’s annual talent competition, featuring performers from across the Senior school. College Captains and Senior School leadership organise the event’s auditions and semi-finals in Term 2 with the grand finale held in July.
SPOSA sponsors the prizes (1st, 2nd and 3rd) and this year it was Barbie themed. The talent on display at the Finale was incredible and the audience were cheering wildly for their favourite performer.
Thank you to our College Captains and staff for putting on such a great show and to everyone who worked behind the scenes to make the night a great success. Well done to all performers and congratulations to the 2024 SPYGT Champions: 1st Jazzy P (Year 9), 2nd Ella K (Year 10), 3rd Joshua S (Year 7). Finally thank you to SPOSA, for supporting the event and generously donating the prize money.
St Peters Swimming Olympic Preparation
As part of the preparation for the Paris Olympics, last term St Peters Western Swim Club (SPW) opened its doors to the public for a rare glimpse of its elite High-Performance Squad in action during a Paris-themed training session and race simulation ahead of the Australian Swim Trials for selection to the 2024 Olympics.
With 300 plus spectators, including some Australian swimming greats, in the stands, the pool was buzzing with excitement as SPW’s top talent dove into their final home training session. Year 12 St Peters student Jaclyn B took part in the event, joined by Old Scholars Ariarne Titmus (2018), Mollie O’Callaghan (2022), Jack Cartwright (2015), Kai Taylor (2021), Abbey Harkin (2016), Jenna Forrester (2020), Hugh Dolle (2022), Jamie Perkins (2022), Josh Staples (2022), Eve Thomas (2018) and Rob Thorpe (2022).
Guided by Head Coach Dean Boxall and his team, the swimmers soaked up every moment of the Paris-themed simulation, getting a taste of what’s to come. The event kicked off with Laurie Lawrence’s energetic opening, while French commentary added an authentic touch and Channel 9 captured everyone moment, including post-race interviews.
Dean, the driving force behind the event reflected on its success: “We achieved a lot today – not everything went perfectly but I wanted to do something that made them nervous and give them that Olympic experience that is either going to enhance you or pull you back,” he said.
Congratulations to Dean and St Peters Western Swim Club on a fantastic morning by the pool and best of luck to the squad!
Celebrating our Old Scholars
Neil Brunner (1981) represents Australia at the Walking Football World Cup
Neil Brunner (1981)
Congratulations to Old Scholar Neil Brunner (1981) for representing Australia at the Walking Football World Cup in Chesterfield England. Teams from across the globe including the Caribbean, Israel, Wales, Gibraltar, Sweden, England and Norway competed in the three-day event.
Walking football, which began in the UK in 2011, and arrived in Australia in 2018, aims to keep those over 50 engaged in the sport. Seven teams represented Australia, across several age groups, with the Women’s over 50s team winning a silver medal and all other teams delivering competitive performances.
Neil’s football journey started in the Under 8s and continued to the Senior level in Brisbane. He represented St Peters from 1979 to 1981. After moving from Victoria back to Brisbane in 2020 Neil started playing Walking Football and now represents Walking Football Brisbane.
“I always dreamed of representing Australia and although I had to wait until I turned 60, I am still very proud to have represented my country in a sport that I love,” Neil said. “It was a tough competition, with the team achieving a win over France and draw against Wales. We learned a lot, met some wonderful competitors, and are looking forward to improving our results next year in Sweden.”
Well done, Neil, and thank you for sharing your news and photo!
Celebrating our Old Scholars at the Paris Olympics and more!
St Peters Old Scholars Represented at the Paris Olympics
St Peters Lutheran College is proudly being represented by 10 Old Scholar athletes during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. In the swimming division this contingent is the largest of any swimming club in the country and makes up 22% of the Australian Swimming Team.
SPOSA is incredibly proud and wishes the following Old Scholars all the very best during the Paris Olympics and we are watching and cheering you on from home. Some of the results are outstanding and the medals flowing in. Congratulations to:
Swimmers - Jack Cartwright (2015), Ariarne Titmus (2018), Jenna Forrester (2020), Kai Taylor (2021), Mollie O’Callaghan (2022), Jamie Perkins (2022), Ella Ramsay (2022), Eve Thomas (2018) who has been selected for New Zealand
Torrie Lewis (2022), Australia’s fastest woman represented Australia in the track and field while Kathryn Rowan (2014) competed in rowing.
Go Saints and Go Australia!
Nat Wright (2019)
Nat Wright (2019)
Congratulations to Old Scholar Nat Wright (2019), who was selected for the Australian Wallaroos Rugby Team to play in the upcoming test series against Fiji and New Zealand.
On the back of an excellent season with Queensland, Nat and the Wallaroos thrashed Fijiana 64-5 in Sydney earlier in July. SPOSA wishes Nat all the best of luck for the remaining games in the season.
Kadin Pritchard (2022)
Kadin Pritchard (2022)
Congratulations to Old Scholar Kadin Pritchard (2022) who was selected for the Australian U20 Championship 2024 in Cape Town, South Africa from 29 June to 19 July.
Kadin played in the opening win against Georgia but unfortunately Australia was defeated by Argentina 14 to 6 during a game hindered by pelting rain causing muddy field conditions. SPOSA looks forward to watching Kadin’s rugby career grow and strengthen.
Duke of Edinburgh Volunteers
SPOSA has had several Duke of Edinburgh volunteers over the years. It is wonderful to get to know these students who volunteer their time and are of great assistance in the office. Congratulations to three St Peters Old Scholars and three current students who received their Gold Award at The Duke of Edinburgh Queensland Award Ceremony on 12 July at Brisbane City Hall.
- Lewis Bellamywells (2022), Isla Lewis and Chloe Mather (both 2023) - Joshua A, Jacob M and Xavier C (Year 12).
A special thanks to Jacob M for his assistance in the office earlier this year.
Peer Year Reunions
Upcoming Peer Year Reunions
The following reunions are being organised and below are the contact details if these relate to your Peer Year and you’re interested in reaching out to the co-ordinators.
Class of1974:50-year reunion – Those who couldn’t attend in June, Peter Roennfeldt is organising a separate gathering. Please contact him on info@peterroennfeldt.com
Class of 1984:40-year reunion. Details below.' Date: Saturday 17th August 2024 Time: 6:00pm onward Venue: Archer Brewing (reserved the upstairs section of the venue, on the right) Address: 1/278 Newmarket Rd, Wilston 4051
The establishment has offered to play the very best 80's songs – send requests to Nicky or Brad. No cover charge or proof of age required 😊. Buy your own drinks and food. There are vegetarian and vegan options and gluten free as well. RSVP if you are interested or send us a message to pass on if you are unable to attend. Please forward to anyone who would have graduated year 1984. Bring any memories/photos and stories. Contact: Brad Bartsch 0427 081 162 or Nicky Hughes on 0408 065 804 nickyh0212@gmail.com
Class of 1989: 35-year reunion is looking for a co-ordinator. Please contact SPOSA if you are in this Peer Year and interested in gathering a group together.
Class of 1999:25-year reunion on 7 September 2024 4:00pm- 5:00pm: College tour (meet at Ross Roy) 5:00pm - 7:00pm: Canapes and drinks at the Centre for Learning and Innovation (CLI).
Class of 2004: 20-year reunion Date: Saturday 19th October 2024 Time: 4:30pm-5:30pm: College Tour (meet up at Ross Roy) 6pm-11pm: Garden Bar, Pig N Whistle Indooroopilly RSVP by 30th September. Partners welcome
Or search Facebook group “2004 SPLC 10 Yr Reunion 2014” Laura Swales is the co-ordinator and can be contacted on laura.swales@brisbanerealestate.com.au Class of 2014: 10-year reunion on 23 November from 5:00pm at the Story Bridge Hotel. Georgia Hildebrand is the co-ordinator, and she can be contacted on georgia_hildebrand@hotmail.com
Where are they now?
Old Scholar Visits to the College
James Smith (1991)
SPOSA recently had an unexpected visit from Old Scholar James Smith (1991) who was back from London to visit family in Brisbane. James attended St Peters from 1987 to 1991 and was amazed at the College’s growth and the new opportunities available to students. During our tour of the College, James shared memories of his school days and his journey to becoming a fluent Chinese-speaking lawyer in London. He admitted that he had no clear career path in school and often changed his mind. He took mostly Maths and Science subjects in his final years, though he wasn’t particularly good at them. He fondly remembered his patient Maths teacher, Mrs DeJersey.
James never considered law until after school. He always loved languages and studied Mandarin at university in Australia and in 1995 in Taiwan. At that time, St Peters only offered German and French. James went on to study Law and Business with Chinese at Griffith University and later completed a Master of Law at the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). He qualified as a lawyer in Australia in 2001 and worked in Melbourne and Sydney before settling in London in 2004. For the past 20 years, he has been an in-house banking and consumer credit lawyer.
James also reminisced about his time at Ironbark in 1989 and his participation in musical tours and concerts, including trips to New Zealand in 1987 and the Queensland Band tour in 1990. He made lasting friendships during his time at St Peters, many of whom he is still in touch with, even 30 years later, and are scattered all over the world.
SPOSA really enjoyed seeing James back at the College and wishes him all the best with the next chapter of his life. Keep in touch!
Do you remember?
Treasured Additions to the SPOSA Archives
This year, we've received some fascinating additions to our archives. Among them is a St Peters Lutheran College 50th Anniversary port wine bottle, discovered by Sophie Marshall (2016) in a Wacol op shop. Recognizing its significance, Sophie purchased the bottle and returned it to its rightful place in the SPOSA archives.
Marjorie Jackson (Weallans 1972) visited the office to reminisce and contribute several valuable items. These contributions included various slides from her 1972 Fraser Island Biology trip, a letter from Dr. Carson Dron appointing her as Head Day Girl and Girls’ Captain for 1972, and an assortment of memorabilia. This memorabilia includes a school uniform regulations document, her graduation dinner speech, a St Peters prospectus, a plan of the academic buildings, her school hat, and uniform collar signed by her classmates on her final day.
Additionally, Yvonne Hands (Goodman 1965) emailed SPOSA past copies of the SPOSA Bulletin from 1972 and 1975. One of these newsletters mentions the birth of Holly Wandel (Curnow 1992), daughter of our very own SPOSA patron, Margaret Curnow, and her husband Bill. These bulletins are a wonderful reminder of the College's history, such as in 1972 when St Peters opened with a record enrolment of 768 students, including over 100 students in both Grade 11 and 12. New subjects introduced that year included Economics in Grade 11 and Elective Music in Grade 9. Some things, however, have remained unchanged -the construction of the new girls’ dormitory, which started in late 1971, was delayed by rain.
We are always looking to expand our substantial archives. If you have any uniforms, photos, or other St Peters items you'd like to donate, please contact the SPOSA Office at 3377 6592 or sposa@stpeters.qld.edu.au.
In Memoriam
We Honour, We Celebrate, We Remember
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of our St Peters Community members who have sadly passed away recently.
- Glen Noller (1956): 18 July 1934 - 14 May 2024 (notified by his niece Michelle Hughes)
- William Murry Heck (1951) OAM: 4 June 1933 - 18 Feb 2024 (notified by Alf Svenson)
- Barbara Foster (1957 Thomas): 22 May 1939 - 30 March 2023
- Maxine Cutmore (1964 Fabian): 28 May 1947 - 22 June 2024
- Clyde Aitken (1961): 12 June 1943 - 9 August 2023
- Evelien Parker (Vriend 1975): 4 November 1957 - 19 June 2024
Connect with us
Keep in touch with SPOSA
We love to keep in touch with our Old Scholars. Please connect with us via our social media pages Facebook or Instagram to see photos from our archives and keep up to date with all news and notices.
