Please note that the enrolment submission due date for Reception in Term 1 and 3, and Year 7 2029 is 1 December 2026.
Find out more here https://smc.sa.edu. au/enrolment/enrolment-information/
COLLEGE TOURS
College Tours are available at both campuses during all terms of the school year and we look forward to welcoming you to St Michael’s College.
Visiting our College is a fantastic way to discover the wonderful opportunities we have to offer your child. We welcome you to explore the Campus, meet the Principal and talk to the students.
For more information visit https://smc. sa.edu.au/enrolment/college-tours/
IN LOVING
Memory
Reverend Monsignor Bob Rice
9 April 1932 - 16 October 2025
Reverend Monsignor Bob Rice passed away peacefully on 16 October 2025, aged 93. He was a much-loved Priest who was ordained in 1956 and served faithfully in numerous parishes in Adelaide and the South East. He was also a Doctor of Philosophy, passionate Grange Golf Club member and devoted Adelaide Crows supporter. Monsignor was a regular participant in one of the College’s most significant events – the Memorial Mass held in November.
He was a great friend of the St Michael’s community for the past twenty years and his ‘dragonfly and letter home’ homilies at the Memorial Mass provided great comfort to the grieving families.
His sense of service and Lasallian qualities will stand the test of time and his friendly banter at supper will be sorely missed. Aprim, Robert Dempsey said, “Monsignor Rice will be remembered for his tireless service, friendship and genuine compassion and empathy for the families who had lost their son or daughter”.
May Reverend Monsignor Bob Rice Rest in Peace.
OLD SCHOLARS – REST IN PEACE
WE WERE ALSO SADDENED TO LEARN OF THE FOLLOWING PASSINGS IN 2025:
STEPHEN
QUIS UT DEUS
Brother Anthony Cummins - Ruby Jubilee
Young people need good teachers like visible angels. (Med 197.1)
Brother Tony was recently in Adelaide for the official Opening and Blessing of the new Stage 2 and 3 facilities at the Beverley Campus. One of the highlights of the day was a walk down memory lane in the History Centre which captures images of just how far the school has progressed since its inception in 1954. Tony has fond memories of his time at the Primary Campus in 1988. He taught Year 8CU as well as coaching the Year 4/5 Football and the U13 Tennis teams. Unfortunately, he was transferred to St Bede’s to assist with their Boarding School programme the following year.
Brother Tony currently serves as a teacher and campus minister at St Bede’s College as well as being appointed in 2022 as a Director of the Lasallian Mission Council. His commitment to shaping young minds and nurturing their spiritual growth is truly inspiring. He is a strong advocate of prayer and believes that, “to pray means to think and live in the presence of God - all or actions must have their origin in prayer”.
On behalf of the St Michael’s College Lasallian community, we would like to congratulate Brother Tony on his Ruby Jubilee.
There is little doubt that he has lived out De La Salle’s vision of touching the hearts of all those who he’s either taught or advised in life’s journey.
Tony’s selfless sense of service and commitment have endeared him to staff and students alike.
PRIMARY CAMPUS STAGE 2 AND 3 Building Works
Opening Ceremony
In September 2025, St Michael’s College gathered to celebrate the official opening of the Primary Campus Stage 2 and Stage 3 building projects, marking a significant milestone in the College’s ongoing growth and development.
The event provided an opportunity to acknowledge the many key stakeholders who were instrumental in the planning and delivery of the two major building projects. Stage 2 delivered the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Centre, along with new General Learning Areas, while Stage 3 included the Chapel, History Centre, additional General Learning Areas, the Administration Centre and Staff Room. Together, these facilities have transformed the Primary Campus into a contemporary learning environment designed to support a broad and inclusive educational experience.
The completion of these stages occurred during a period of strong growth in student enrolments across the College. During the ceremony, recognition was given to the College Board, supported by the College Leadership
Team, for the strategic decision to offer a co-educational Reception to Year 12 pathway for Catholic and Old Scholar families in the western suburbs of Adelaide. This decision was acknowledged as a defining moment in shaping the future direction of St Michael’s College.
The ceremony also recognised the enduring contribution of the De La Salle Brothers and past and present members of the College community, whose commitment to the Lasallian mission continues to underpin the vision and identity of St Michael’s College.
An excerpt of Principal, Mr Tony Daley’s speech at the Primary Campus Stage 2 & 3 Opening Ceremony
“…Guided by the vision of Principal, John Foley and the College Board, an inspirational decision was made – to transition the Primary Campus to co-education and to invest substantially in the Beverley site. That decision has significantly altered the trajectory of St Michael’s College. When I arrived, Stage 1 of the building program had been completed and the transformation planned for Stages 2 and 3 was just beginning. Today, with the completion of these stages, we now stand in a campus that is truly state-of-the-art. Our students enjoy modern classrooms, a dedicated STEM room, a podcast studio, performing arts facilities, inclusive education and breakout spaces, staff areas, reception, and most recently, a magnificent play space that has already become a favourite for our younger students…”
2025 Mission Action Day
Steeped in rich tradition, Mission Action Day (MAD) continues to be a powerful expression of our Lasallian identity in action.
Early in 2025, students and staff from both our Primary and Secondary campuses once again came together for this much-anticipated day, united by a shared purposeto make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Mission Action Day saw Year Levels participating in a wide range of engaging activities across Adelaide. From Adventure Rooms and bowling to fishing at Semaphore, mini golf, TreeClimb, Bounce, beach walks and more, students embraced the opportunity to step outside the classroom and learn through experience. These activities not only fostered connection, teamwork and joy, but also reminded students of the importance of service, generosity and social responsibility.
While the day itself was filled with fun and community spirit, the true impact of Mission Action Day lies in what it makes possible beyond our own College gates.
We are proud to share that the 2025 Mission Action Day project has been completed, thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our community. The total donation of $34,412 has funded the Water Filtration Plant, Washrooms, and Repairs and Maintenance Project at La Salle High School, Khushpur, located in Pakistan.
La Salle High School serves students from very poor families and is situated in the largest Christian village in Pakistan. Access to clean water, safe facilities and wellmaintained learning spaces is vital to ensuring students can learn in a healthy and supportive environment. Through the collective efforts of our students, staff and families, St Michael’s College has played a direct role in improving daily life for this school community.
Mission Action Day is more than a fundraiser. It is a lived experience of our Lasallian values. It encourages students to recognise their capacity to contribute to a more just and compassionate world, and to understand that even small actions, when combined, can create lasting change.
“Please accept my sincere gratitude and appreciation for your continuous support and encouragement towards making La Salle Khushpur safer, cleaner and more conducive to a learning environment for our students and staff alike. A big thanks and appreciation to the staff and students of St. Michael’s College, Adelaide for their generosity and kindness towards us. Please know that the staff and students are grateful for their love and offer our prayers and blessings for them”
- Br. Zohaib Gill FSC
Scan the QR code below to watch the short video made by La Salle Khushpur in Pakistan, with St Michael’s College, Adelaide, being named on the signage plaque as recognition.
See the short LA SALLE KHUSHPUR video here
NEW CO-CURRICULAR Uniform
Game On: St Michael’s College unveils new look Co-Curricular Sports Uniform
St Michael’s College has officially unveiled its new co-curricular sports uniform, marking a contemporary update to the College’s proud sporting tradition.
Led by Deputy Principal - Staff and Strategy, Ms Amanda Price, the new co-curricular uniform was developed through a collaborative process involving the College’s Marketing Department, the design team at Design Notion, the Sports Uniform Committee and student representatives.
“The new uniform reflects both innovation and heritage, with the design paying tribute to more than 70 years of sporting history while delivering a modern, high-performance look for today’s students,” said Amanda.
Key elements of the uniform incorporate the College’s iconic stripes, the distinctive ‘V’, and the St Michael’s College star and crest, symbols long associated with sporting excellence. Together, these features create a cohesive and contemporary design that honours tradition while instilling pride and confidence in students representing the College.
A suite of unique designs has been developed across all sporting codes, ensuring consistency and a strong visual identity on and off the field. This unified approach enhanced the College’s presence across competitions, with 2025 students proudly among the first to wear the new uniform last year.
The launch of the new co-curricular sports uniform represents an exciting new chapter in the College’s sporting journey.
To view our showcase video to follow the historical journey, scan the QR link below.
See the NEW CO-CURRICULAR SPORTS UNIFORMS showcase video here
COLLEGEEnhancements
Secondary Campus Inclusivity Hub
In 2025, the College introduced the Inclusivity Hub at the Secondary Campus, marking an important step forward in its commitment to inclusive education and student wellbeing.
Aligned with the school’s longstanding Lasallian values, the Hub reflects a community where every student is known, valued and cared for. It builds on the College’s established Inclusive Education framework which includes personalised learning plans, targeted literacy and numeracy support, counselling services and curriculum adjustments, by providing a centralised space for collaboration between specialist staff, students, families and teachers.
Students access the Hub, and the adjacent Ecosquad Garden (pictured below), for learning support, selfregulation or as a proactive, preventative strategy, with the aim of helping them return to the classroom feeling calm, confident and ready to learn.
Director of Inclusivity, Sally Whelan, says the Hub is designed to empower students to thrive both academically and socially.
“The Inclusivity Hub is about meeting students where they are and giving them the support they need to succeed,” Ms Whelan said.
“It’s a space where students feel safe, understood and encouraged to build confidence, independence and a strong sense of belonging.”
The Hub also supports students through on-site Allied Health sessions and pastoral support programs delivered by co-educators. These sessions focus on developing practical life skills and future readiness through hands-on experiences such as cooking, budgeting and communitybased learning.
Mentoring forms a key part of the Hub’s offering, supporting students who may experience challenges with engagement, motivation, self-regulation or social skills.
Available as both targeted intervention and proactive support, mentoring programs run for two to ten sessions, tailored to each student’s individual learning and wellbeing needs.
Through the Inclusivity Hub, the College continues to strengthen its inclusive, student-centred approach ensuring every learner has the opportunity to feel supported, connected and confident in their learning journey.
COLLEGEEnhancements
Pride in Building Futures at St Michael’s College
St Michael’s College is stepping boldly into the future, investing in learning environments that inspire creativity, curiosity and wellbeing.
With a clear focus on innovation and preparing students for life beyond the classroom, the College is transforming its Secondary Campus through a visionary 10-year masterplan designed to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world.
The first stage of this ambitious plan will see the construction of a purpose-built, multistorey STEAM centre. More than just a building, it will be a hub for interdisciplinary learning where science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics converge. Students will move seamlessly between flexible, technologyrich spaces designed for both individual study and collaborative projects. The centre will feature virtual and augmented reality zones, state-of-the-art food technology facilities, and specialist STEAM laboratories, providing experiences that go far beyond the traditional classroom.
1. External Southern Aspect
Art Workspace
Staff Workspace
Multipurpose STEAM Room 5. Breakout Space
Food Tech
Breakout Space
VR Room
Breakout Space
Food Tech
Science Lab
“Our vision is to create spaces that empower students to explore, experiment and innovate,” says Principal, Mr Tony Daley. “These facilities will give them the tools to solve real-world problems and discover new passions in an environment that supports both creativity and academic excellence.”
The masterplan does not stop at the STEAM centre. Future stages include a purpose-built Middle School Centre, expanded Design, Technology and Drama areas, and enhancements to the Inclusivity and Wellbeing Hub. Each element has been carefully designed to put students at the centre of learning, fostering engagement, collaboration and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s experimenting with new technology, performing on stage, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in a breakout space, the campus is being shaped to meet the needs of today’s learners and tomorrow’s leaders.
This investment aligns seamlessly with the College’s Strategic Directions, ensuring that students continue to experience contemporary, future-focused education. For the community, the transformation is a visible sign of the College’s commitment to excellence and innovation, building a foundation for students to confidently navigate their own pathways into the future.
For students walking through the new spaces, the impact will be tangible.
The College is not just building classrooms, it is building futures with spaces that encourage exploration, collaboration and imagination, which prepare students to thrive in a world that is constantly evolving.
Scan the QR code below to watch the STEAM Centre come to life with a virtual flythrough.
See the STEAM CENTRE BUILD fly through here
OF 2025 Class
The College congratulates all students for their achievements and personal successes, highlighting the value of hard work and determination.
We also acknowledge the significant impact their teachers have had over the 13 years of education, emphasising their role in shaping students’ resilience and commitment.
Congratulations to the following students from the Class of 2025 on their academic achievements and successes in 2025.
1. Governor’s Award
2. Student Citizenship Award
3. Brian Gilbertson Award
4. College Community Leadership Award
5. ADF Award
6. Service to the College Award
7. College Dux
8. College Dux and Proxime Accessit
Co-Curricular Artist Award
Sienna Tappert
Brian Gilbertson Co-Curricular Music Award
Kiara Didyk
Female Athlete of the Year
Zahlia Niemann
Male Athlete of the Year
Zane Peucker
Ralph Broughton Award
Harrison Northeast
Muriel Matters Award
Hannah Timpani
Mary Colton Award
Sophie Hall
College Community Leadership Award
Aiden Colella
Governor of South Australia Commendation - Aboriginal Student SACE Excellence Award
Jocelyn Russ
ADF Award
Brendan Talbot
Best All-Rounder
Erin O’Shea
Student Citizenship Award
Liliana Walsh
Mary MacKillop Award for Excellence
Aidan Sbattella
Service to the College Award
Sienna Zienkiewicz
VET Achievements
Number of VET Certificate III Awards
84 students (100% completion)
Number of students who completed SACE using VET 21 students (9%)
Number of students who completed SACE with VET
129 students (53%)
100% SACE COMPLETION
21 STUDENTS ACHIEVED AN ATAR IN EXCESS OF 95 (10%)
54 STUDENTS ACHIEVED AN ATAR IN EXCESS OF 90 (26%)
13 MERITS ACHIEVED BY 13 STUDENTS ACROSS 10 SUBJECTS
88 A+ GRADES WERE ACHIEVED BY 60 STUDENTS ACROSS 25 SUBJECTS
586 A GRADES WERE ACHIEVED WITH 107 STUDENTS SCORING THREE OR MORE A’S
1. DE LA SALLE AWARD – AIDAN SBATTELLA
90% OF ALL GRADES ACHIEVED WERE A’S AND B’S
THE HIGHEST STUDENT RECOGNITION AT ST MICHAEL’S COLLEGE AND IS PRESENTED TO THE GRADUATING STUDENT WHO BEST EMBODIES THE SPIRIT OF THE COLLEGE.
2. COLLEGE DUX – MICHELE
PIPICELLI
ATAR OF 99.15 INCLUDING THREE A+ GRADES IN MATHEMATICAL METHODS, MODERN HISTORY AND SPECIALIST MATHEMATICS, AND A “PERFECT” 20/20 FOR HIS UNIVERSITY STUDIES.
3. PROXIME ACCESSIT – VICTOR CAVUOTO
ATAR OF 98.95 INCLUDING THREE A+ GRADES IN CHEMISTRY, MATHEMATICAL METHODS AND PHYSICS.
OF 2025 Class
College Leaders 2026
We congratulate the 2026 College Leaders and look forward to the fresh perspectives and enthusiasm they will bring to our College community.
College Captains
Chloe Riley
Joshua Rositano
Vice Captains
Anastasia Djukic
Flynn Fitzgerald
College Leaders
Audrey Balic
Anelise Bewry
Scarlett Brown
Sia Brazzale
Giuseppe Cardillo
Sasha Corbo
Lucia Devries
Isabella Dragani
Franco Esposito
Tommy Jovanovic
Ava Mackenzie
Patrick Redden
Henry Sciberras
Dimitrios Tsaconas
Archer Wilson
Anthony Zerella
House Captains
Cleo Simpson
Finn Spanagel
Jaxon Lynch
Ruby Lynch
Jacob Burton
Jemma Mutton
Lucas Martin
Isabella Pacicca
Maeve Nicholas
Cooper Raftery
Lucy Moore
Ciara O’Reilly
Eloise Cosenza
Finn Thomas
Mitchell Beshara
Lara Jolly
Dance Captains
Rosie Knowles
Daniella Simonetta
Drama Captains
Lily Colville
Lilah Bertram
Music Captains
Carissa Lobo
Hannah Kolokas
1. Performing Arts Captains
2. College and Vice Captains
3. House Captains
College Leaders
A note from our 2026 College Leaders
As College Captains, we are both proud and excited to serve the St Michael’s community in 2026 and beyond.
This year is all about strengthening connections with one another, our College and the wider Lasallian community. We are excited to work alongside students, staff and families to celebrate success in all its forms and make 2026 a year to remember.
One of our biggest goals for the year ahead is to nurture a culture where every individual at St Michael’s feels truly known, valued and cared for.
We are committed to sustaining an inclusive College environment where students feel confident stepping outside their comfort zones, supporting one another and growing together.
Another key focus for us this year is recognising that success looks different for everyone. For some, it may be academic achievement while for others it might be commitment to a sport, involvement in the arts or doing just 1% better each day. Every form of success matters and deserves recognition.
However, true success is rarely achieved alone, which is why our guiding belief for 2026 is simplewe succeed best when we succeed together.
After attending the Lasallian Student Leadership Seminar over the holidays, we were reminded that leadership isn’t just about badges or ties, it’s about how you make people feel.
Small acts, such as remembering someone’s interests, being a source of encouragement or sharing a smile, can make a real difference. This is the kind of servant leadership we hope to bring to our roles.
If you see us around the school this year, whether it’s at fundraisers, sporting events or community initiatives, we want you to feel comfortable approaching us for a chat or sharing your ideas. Together, by living out the values of Community, Challenge, Choice, we can make 2026 a year of growth, connection and shared success.
Chloe
Riley and Joshua Rositano 2026 College Captains
PRIMARY CAMPUS Highlights
While there are countless amazing highlights to share, here are a few key moments for the Primary Campus 2025 year:
1. $20 Boss
Our Year 5 students were thrilled to take part in a handson project where they became young entrepreneurs for the day. Each student was given $20 and worked in groups to design and run their own small business. They brainstormed creative product ideas, budgeted for expenses, and promoted their business through posters and videos. On Market Stall Day, students from all year levels had the opportunity to purchase items from the Year 5 stalls with most groups able to repay their start-up funds, with several even making an impressive profit. Overall, the Year 5s made a profit of $905!
2. Eco-Crafting Sessions
The Primary Youth Environmental Leaders turned lunchtimes into eco-crafting sessions, creating everything from herb seasoning and dehydrated lemons to lip balms, seedlings, and of course, the iconic De La Sauce.
Their successful stall raised funds for the school’s sustainability projects.
3. Reconciliation
On Wednesday 12 November, students and their families came together in the Primary Campus Chapel to celebrate their First Reconciliation. This was celebrated by Fr Santhosh, Fr Rajashekhar and Fr Lancy. We congratulate these students and wish them every blessing as they journey towards the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Eucharist.
4. Book Week
The 2025 Children’s Book Council of Australia theme was, ‘Book an Adventure!’ Running from 16-23 August, the 80th anniversary theme encouraged our students to explore new worlds, meet extraordinary characters, and foster a love of reading. As part of Book Week, many activities were held, including an adventureseeking Where’s Wally contest. Students explored the school, working as a team and used their detective skills to seek out the Wally’s – but they had to watch out, as there was also Wally Impersonators!
5. Primary DJ Crew Rocked NBL Adelaide 36ers Kids Round
The Primary DJ Crew threw down beats for a 10,000 strong sold out crowd at the NBL Adelaide 36ers Kids Round at the Entertainment Centre. They also joined DJ Shep (their tutor, Adrian Shepherd), in the Adelaide Christmas Pageant on Adrian’s float. Scan the QR code to listen to their live performance and mixes on SoundCloud.
Listen to the PRIMARY DJ CREW on SoundCloud here
6. Overnight Camp for our Year 4s
Our Year 4 cohort embarked on their first overnight camp at Wirraway Homestead in Strathalbyn. Students embraced independence, made memories, and shared laughs with friends and teachers.
7. Podcast Superstars
Year 5 students, Max, Callum, Myles and Rocky, were lucky enough to attend the ARCH D Podcasting Leaders Day. Having already created a podcast in Term 2 as part of their work with ARCH D, the students were able to link up with students from other Catholic schools to share ideas and further enhance their podcasting skills.
It was a great experience as they were able to meet podcasting legend Sean Craig Murphy, who spoke to them about a career in broadcasting.
The Primary Pulse Podcast is available on Spotify.
8. Sports Day
In Term 4, our Primary students enjoyed a fantastic Sports Day at the Secondary Campus. Students from our Lasallian Stars through to Year 6 participated in a range of events. Our youngest students (Lasallian Stars to Year 1) took part in sprints, hurdles, beanbag toss, obstacle relays, and more, while our Year 2-6 students showed great determination in the 800m run, high jump, shot put, 100m and 200m sprints, relays, and the much-loved tug-of-war. St John’s took out the overall shield, narrowly ahead of St Paul’s. St Peter’s were awarded the Spirit Cup, determined by Mr Patton and based on points for sportsmanship and our Primary Values.
PRIMARY SPORTS
CO-CURRICULAR
Highlights
2025 was an outstanding year for co-curricular sport at St Michael’s College Primary Campus.
Participation reached new heights, student achievement continued to grow, and our athletes represented the College with pride, humility and Lasallian spirit.
This year saw 57 St Michael’s teams, with a total of 551 students proudly representing the College across summer and winter co-curricular competitions, an outstanding reflection of student engagement and the strength of our co-curricular culture. Notably, the College entered 21 teams, including two all-girls Under 6 teams, into the Northwest Junior Soccer Association (NWJSA). This marked the highest number ever submitted by a school, highlighting our growth, capacity and commitment to accessible sport for all.
Across representative pathways and carnivals, St Michael’s enjoyed remarkable success. The College claimed both the SACPSSA Division 1 Boys Swimming Shield and the SACPSSA Division 1 Boys Athletics Shield, supported by multiple agegroup championship achievements in athletics, swimming and cross country. These results demonstrated the depth of skill and talent within our student cohort.
2025 also marked important firsts: the introduction of our first girls’ soccer team to compete in the IGSSA competition the entry of our first tee-ball team in the SAAS competition.
These accomplishments were made possible through the unwavering support of families, staff and parent coaches, who generously give their time to train, mentor and cheer on our students.
Our Netball Program continues to flourish through its strong partnership with the Adelaide Thunderbirds, which began in 2025 and carries into 2026. The partnership initially provided students and coaches with invaluable access to international netball icon Romelda Aiken-George, whose experience enriched the College’s growing program. Building on this foundation, the partnership continues to evolve in 2026 with the involvement of elite athletes including Kate Heffernan and Latanya Wilson, offering students across both primary and senior campuses further opportunities to learn from some of the world’s best. This ongoing collaboration strengthens both player development and coaching expertise, reinforcing netball as a key component of the College’s co-curricular sport offering.
SECONDARY CAMPUS Highlights
While there are countless highlights to share, here are a few key moments for the Secondary Campus 2025 year:
1. Grills and Giving
Year 10 Peer Leaders hosted a vibrant lunchtime BBQ during Charities Week, raising over $1000. With sizzling sausages, grilled onions and sweet fairy floss on offer, the event drew a fantastic crowd and showcased student initiative in uniting the school community. Their efforts raised awareness for important causes while bringing people together.
A heartfelt thank you to the generous sponsors on the day: Barossa Fine Foods, the Knoll Family, Blue Lake Refrigerated Transport and Epic Hire.
2. Sprout Cooking School
The Year 9 Food Technology students had an unforgettable culinary experience at Sprout Cooking School, where they learnt to cook in a commercial kitchen setting. They watched a live cooking demonstration by expert chefs, then rolled up their sleeves for a hands-on cooking practical, exploring new techniques, building their culinary skills and discovering exciting new flavour combinations.
3. REACH Heroes Day
REACH Heroes Day was a powerful and uplifting experience for our Year 9 students, encouraging them to be braver, more self-aware and more confident in who they are. Through engaging activities and reflective conversations, students explored the layers that can sometimes prevent them from showing their authentic selves. The day was led by inspiring young leaders who connected with our students through compassion, empathy and genuine understanding.
4. Robotics
Robotics Club students built and programmed VEX V5 robots that battled against each other in a Soccer Bots Competition during STEM Week. Year 9 Digital Tech students created their own games in GameMaker Studio 2 and Python Pygame which they showcased to other students in the library, with guest students getting a chance to vote for the best five games.
5. Fashion and Textile
The Year 10 Fashion and Textile students investigated concepts of creative doodling while researching the techniques of UK/Australian artist, Doodle Boy. They explored themes in contemporary pop culture to create their own patterns for textile print and constructed paper dresses focusing on both form and function.
6. Year 7 Brass and Woodwind Program
The Brass and Woodwind Program gave our Year 7 students an exciting introduction to instrumental music, building strong foundations in technique, musicianship and ensemble skills. Through regular lessons, rehearsals and performance opportunities, students developed confidence and a love of music while learning to work as part of a team. The program encourages creativity and commitment, supporting students as they grow both musically and personally in their first year of secondary school.
7. Year 11 Visual Art Exhibition
The Year 11 Art Exhibition was on display in the library during Term 4 and included an inspiring collection of nature-themed artworks developed after students gathered visual inspiration at the Adelaide Zoo and Botanic Gardens. The exhibition featured an impressive range of work, including dioramas, jewellery design, architecture and environmental concepts, fashion pieces, as well as painting and drawing.
8. Drama Showcases
Throughout the year, our Senior School students from Years 7-12 have brought creativity to the stage through a vibrant range of drama showcases and performances. Each production reflected the dedication of our students and staff, celebrating storytelling in all its forms and the confidence that grows from performance.
9. Write a Book in a Day
Students across Years 7-9 took part in the annual Write a Book in a Day, a unique team writing challenge where students collaborate to plan, write and illustrate an entire book from scratch in just one day while raising funds for childhood cancer research. From the first brainstorm to the final draft, there was a buzz of creativity, teamwork and storytelling as students worked against the clock to bring their stories to life.
10. Year 8 Debating
Our Year 8 Debating Team, consisting of Teddy, Isaac, Olivia, Martina and absent team members on the day, Sophia and Giorgia, did an outstanding job in the Grand Final at Parliament House in September. It was an excellent and closely contested debate, with Emmaus Christian College taking the win in a split decision (3-2). The Team spoke with confidence in front of a large audience, delivered engaging and convincing speeches, and represented the College with distinction.
SECONDARY SPORTS
CO-CURRICULAR
Highlights
2025 was another outstanding year for Co-Curricular Sport at St Michael’s College.
With more than 90 teams and over 800 students representing the College in Saturday competitions, alongside knockout fixtures and our Athletics and Swimming Carnivals, the program continues to grow each year. We are incredibly proud to showcase the talent, teamwork and commitment of our students week after week.
Some of the 2025 achievements include:
Both Senior Basketball teams qualified for Finals Day at the State Basketball Centre
Our Year 7 Boys Soccer teams finished their season undefeated
Five Year 9 boys made their senior debut for the First XI Cricket Team
Both Open Girls Football teams reached the Grand Final Four out of five A-Grade Netball teams progressed to Grand Final Day, with our Year 10 team winning their competition
A strong season from our Water Polo team, a very young and talented group that shows great promise for the future
Continued growth in Touch Football, with increased participation and competitive performances against top schools
Ongoing success in Volleyball, where rising numbers and a vibrant team atmosphere highlighted our community spirit, teamwork and enjoyment, with our Senior Girls team going undefeated
The Year 7–9 Boys competed for the first time in the Knockout Netball Competition.
The Boys Athletics Team delivered an exceptional performance, winning the SAAS Division 2 Carnival and earning promotion to Division 1 in 2026. This achievement is particularly significant for our co-educational school, competing against strong programs across the State.
Intercol once again proved to be a highlight of the year.
We hosted Trinity in 12 matches across Soccer, Basketball, AFL and Netball, producing many exciting contests, with St Michael’s crowned the overall winners.
We continued to strengthen our Talent Development Program through valuable partnerships that enhance
student development and engagement. A key example is our collaboration with Dejan Vasiljevic from the Adelaide 36ers, who worked closely within the College’s Basketball Program. Dejan provided meaningful support to coaches while assisting students in refining their skills, and in 2026 will serve as a mentor for our Open A Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball teams across Terms 2, 3, and 4, attending both trainings and games. Expanding beyond basketball, the College also introduced a four-week beginner Golf Program in 2025 in partnership with Grange Golf Club. Students participated in small groups across two weekly evening sessions, offering a fun and accessible introduction to the fundamentals of golf for those keen to explore a new sport. The College’s Cricket Program continues to expand and in partnership with West Torrens Cricket Club, St Michael’s College also secured a grant through SACA and Cricket Australia, to develop new cricket pitches, providing students with access to some of the best turf wickets and surfaces in South Australia.
We also had athletes competing at the highest level, with many selected in State teams across various sports.
Highlights include Zhalia Niemann, who was selected in the Under 20 State Basketball team, Maeve Nicholas, who received a contract with Adelaide United Women and Zane Peuker, who was selected as Pick 31 in the AFL Draft by Richmond.
In addition, congratulations to Celine Huynh, who competed at State Championships, Australian Junior and Youth Championships, Oceania Championships, World Youth Games, and Commonwealth events in Weightlifting – an outstanding achievement.
OUT ANDAbou
De La Salle Day
OUT AND OUT ANDAbou
STUDENTSpotlight
Exceptional Achievements Beyond the Classroom in 2025!
We are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of our students in various fields. Congratulations to all for their hard work and dedication.
1. School Sport SA Award Nominees
Congratulations to Mason (Year 6) and Carter (Year 5) who were nominated for the prestigious School Sport SA Awards presented by the Department for Education, South Australia. Both students represented the State at the U12 School Sport Australia Championships in Cross Country, Swimming and Athletics. These annual awards celebrate students who have demonstrated exceptional sporting performance, dedication and sportsmanship while representing South Australia at a national level. Their nominations also recognise Mason’s success in Basketball and Carter’s achievements in Surf Life Saving, further highlighting their versatility, dedication and commitment across multiple sports.
2. Australian Bravery Award
Earlier in 2025, Louis (Year 12) was involved in an unexpected ocean rescue that resulted in him and three of his peers rescuing a 9-year-old boy and his grandmother from wild surf and severe currents at West Beach.
In September, Louis was presented a Medal of Bravery by the South Australian Minister for Education, Training and Skills, Blair Boyer at Old Parliament House. The Hon Mark Butler MP, Federal Member for Hindmarsh, delivered a speech in Parliament honouring Louis and the extraordinary courage he showed, together with the three other boys. The Member nominated all four boys for a Bravery Award which is a decoration bestowed only by the Governor General of Australia.
3. South Australian Italian School Competition
Congratulations to Alyssa (Year 10) who won second prize in her category in the South Australian Italian School Competition. The competition was entitled, ‘Donne Illustri Italiane: Ieri, Oggie e Domani’. It was an honour to have both the Hon Blair Boyer MP, Minister for Education, Training and Skills, and the Italian Consul, Ernesto Pianelli, presenting the certificate on the day.
4. Youth Sailing World Championships
Fraser (Year 11) was selected to represent Australia in the International 420 Class at the 2025 Youth Sailing World Championships in Vilamoura, Portugal. Fraser qualified by winning the 2025 Youth World Qualifying event which was held at the Adelaide Sailing Club.
5. Adelaide Institute of Hospitality Award
Congratulations to Dimitrios (Year 12) who was selected by Adelaide Institute of Hospitality for the Certificate II in Cookery Leadership, Initiative and Engagement Award. The award is presented to a VET Hospitality student who has shown passion for course content, demonstrated leadership, initiative and engagement in creating a positive learning environment for themselves.
7. Calisthenics Champions
Congratulations to Lily and Ruby (Year 3) for being selected to represent South Australia in the 2025 Sub Junior National Team and competing in the Australian Calisthenics Carnivale in Adelaide. Lily and Ruby’s team went on to win, becoming Sub Junior National Champions!
6. All-Star Selection
Congratulations to Cadence and Ella for making the Australian Indoor Cricket All-Star Selection. The girls competed in the Indoor Cricket Nations along with Ava in Perth.
8. Gold for Team Australia at the ICU Cheer and Dance World Championships
Congratulations to Mia (Year 11) and Leila (Year 10) for their incredible achievement at the ICU Cheer and Dance World Championships in Orlando, Florida, securing a gold medal! Representing Team Australia, they competed in the Adaptive Abilities Unified Division – Hip Hop, making history as the first Australian team to participate in this category.
9. Off to Tigerland for Zane
Congratulations to Zane (Class of 2025), who has been selected by the Richmond Tigers in the AFL Draft 2026 season. We are all so proud of this achievement and wish him all the best for his debut.
10. Search for a Star
Congratulations to Everliegh (Year 1) who was the youngest performer in the Search for a Star Grand Final. Hundreds of people auditioned with only 22 performers making it to the Grand Final. Well done, Everleigh!
11. Soccer Star
Congratulations to Maeve (Year 12) who has been signed to Adelaide United. In 2025, Maeve represented Australia in the U16 ASEAN Cup and the U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers and was recently named the Female Rising Star at the 2025 Celebration of Football Awards.
12. Weightlifting Champion
Congratulations to Celine Huynh, who competed at State Championships, Australian Junior and Youth Championships, Oceania Championships, World Youth Games, and Commonwealth events in Weightlifting. Celine was awarded the St Michael’s College Female Athlete of the Year Award at the Class of 2025 Student Achievement Awards Assembly.
SHREK the Musical
Shrek the Musical, based on the DreamWorks animated film and the book by William Steig, was performed at the Woodville Town Hall from the 28-30 May.
Shrek the Musical is a joyful celebration of individuality, friendship and the courage to embrace who you truly are.
With its blend of humour, heart and vibrant characters, it highlights the importance of accepting others’ differences and finding strength in community.
Filled with energetic ensemble numbers and touching ballads, the show brought laughter, colour and a whole lot of swampstyle charm to the stage.
Pulse
“Pulse 17 – Sounds of Aus” was another incredible night!
With over 26 ensembles from both the Beverley and Henley campuses taking to the stage, Pulse showcased a huge range of Australian music from Kylie Minogue to AC/DC.
One of the standout moments was the Finale, featuring more than 100 students performing together.
The Finale medley, arranged by Jackson Mack, included When The War Is Over, You’re The Voice and Down Under.
REUNION Decades
Our Decades Reunion was a night filled with connection, conversation and nostalgia.
We celebrated welcoming back the graduating years of 1964-66, 1975, 1985, 1995, 2005 and 2015.
From the moment Old Scholars arrived, there was a sense of community and familiarity, that only the magic of being back on St Michael’s College grounds can bring. They enjoyed an evening of reminiscing through photo walls and yearbooks, a school tour exploring the many new spaces and reminiscing where things once were. Our Old Scholars enjoyed plentiful food including some delicious cheesecakes from Old-Scholar owned business, Cheeky Cheesecakes.
We also recognised a significant milestone for our Class of 1975 –who celebrated 50 years since graduating from St Michael’s College!
We thank everyone for joining us on the night, our special guests (including past leaders and teachers) and to all staff who made the night a success. It was an evening that truly reminded us all that the moment students step out the gates for the last time at the end of Year 12 is not the end of their St Michael’s journey.
INAUGURAL 1 YEAR ON Reunion
St Michael’s College proudly hosted its inaugural 1 Year On Reunion for the Class of 2024 at the Mosaic Hotel, West Lakes in November.
The event brought together Old Scholars for a vibrant evening of reconnection, as they collected their yearbooks, shared memories and enjoyed catching up with classmates.
Filled with conversation and laughter, the night marked a special milestone and celebrated the strong friendships and community that continue beyond life at St Michael’s.
We look forward to hosting our 1 Year On Reunions annually!
UPCOMING 2026 REUNIONS + EVENTS
OUR REUNIONS OFFER AN OPPORTUNITY TO CATCH UP WITH CLASSMATES, RECONNECT WITH THE COLLEGE AND ENJOY TIME BACK ON CAMPUS. WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU TO THE UPCOMING REUNION EVENTS LISTED BELOW FOR THOSE WHO GRADUATED IN THE FOLLOWING YEARS: 1965-67, 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006 AND 2016.
5 YEAR REUNION: FRIDAY 12 JUNE
DECADES REUNION: FRIDAY 22 MAY
1 YEAR ON REUNION: DETAILS TO COME
MEMORIAL MASS: NOVEMBER 2026
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CUZ’S Corner
Mr Peter Curran, an Old Scholar and former staff member, reconnects with our community and shares a glimpse of recent events and activities within our Lasallian family.
A snapshot of what has been happening in and around our Lasallian world.
A long time between drinks…
After 29 years in the wilderness, the South Australian Sheffield Shield team finally tasted success in the 2025 final at Karen Rolton Oval. Conor McInerney (2011) [1] was a mainstay in the first innings and other squad members Daniel Drew (2014) [2] and Harry Nielson (2012) were instrumental in the team’s success throughout the season. Let’s hope they can go back-toback in 2026! It’s also heartening to see Spencer Johnson (2013) [3] back playing after Christmas, and he even took a ‘Feiffer’ in a recent District game – let’s hope the recovery continues.
Unfortunately, Luke Reynolds (2012) [4] did not experience a fairytale ending to his SANFL career as the Tigers were outplayed in the 2025 Grand Final. Kudos to Lachie Hosie (2014) [5] on winning his second Ken Farmer Medal with a season tally of 65 goals. Special mention to Chris Burgess (2013) [6] who was runner up with 52 goals. In the SAAFL, Louis Sharrad (2011) [7] led his Ditters’ boys to another premiership, and eight Old Scholars were part of the 51-point victory this year.
Another sterling effort by Sam Morgan (2015) [8] in the 2025 Grand Final, and his performances throughout the year culminated in him taking home the 2025 Golden Whistle Award - the State League’s highest honour. In addition, Sam’s professionalism, commitment and positive attitude has been recognised by the AFL and we can’t wait to see him make his debut at the “G” next year!
Ebony Marinoff (2015) [9] achieved another amazing feat in her stellar career-100 games in a row, and the Crows won a tough encounter against the Swans to celebrate her outstanding achievement. Congratulations to Emma Kilpatrick (2024) [10] on her debut season for the Geelong Cats, and let’s hope her rebounding skills will stand her in good stead for the years ahead. In the SANFLW, Charlotte Dolan (2020) [11] enjoyed backto-back success as the Panthers defeated the Eagles by 23 points.
Olivia Parker’s (2014) [12] Olympic dream may just be realised in Los Angeles as she continues to forge a pathway with representative Australian teams. Olivia and Holly Dini (2023) [13] were teammates in SA’s victory in the National Championships where they defeated Victoria by four goals. More recently, the girls won a Bronze Medal in the World Games in Japan and Olivia’s team won Silver in Canada.
All being well, we might be watching two Olympians swapping maroon, gold and blue for the green and gold!
Lasallian Disciples
”Fulfil your ministry with all the affection of your heart.”
(Med201.1)
Dr Calum Cunningham (2008) [14] was named Tasmania’s Early Career Researcher of the Year at the recent STEM Excellence Awards ceremony. Calum’s findings are informing bushfire risk reduction and conservation in fire-prone regions. He was honoured to be recognised and said, “My research looks at how extreme events are changing and how, through collaboration, we can manage landscapes to reduce risks and protect biodiversity.”
Aaron Almeida (1994) [15] was appointed to the Magistrates Court after specialising in the field of Criminal Law for over twenty years. He has been principal of his firm Almeida and Associates as well as Lead Advocacy Instructor in the College of Law in Adelaide. Aaron is highly regarded by his peers and has been recognised in the prestigious publication, Doyle’s Guide, for the past four years.
Michael Jandy (1994) [16] has also been appointed to the Magistrates Court in recognition of his outstanding service in numerous legal fields and responsibilities. Michael has practised criminal law in all jurisdictions since 2000 and was a partner in Dadds Jandy Lawyers which he established in 2001. Attorney General Kyam Maher said, “I am pleased to have someone with his background, expertise and experience joining the magistracy”. In 2023 he was appointed as a magistrate of the Youth Court of South Australia and continues in this role today.
Emma Fowler (1998) [17] was recently named on the Educator Hot List for 2025 in recognition of her dynamic and visionary leadership as Principal of St Raphael’s Primary school. This complements her previous accolades as Innovative Educator of the Year and Leader of the Year awards. Emma’s approach to primary education is characterised by her authenticity and unwavering Lasallian belief in the capabilities of each student.
ARE THEY NOW? Where
Robert Buss Accountant
Class of 1997
Show me your money…
As many of his predecessors discovered, transferring from Grange and St Joseph’s Hindmarsh Primary schools was quite daunting to say the least. St Michael’s reputation sealed the deal and Bussy joined the Beverley Campus in Year 7 and was assisted in his period of readjustment by Br Claude. It didn’t take long for Robert to buy into all the College had to offer and despite his academic challenges, he revelled in being the best you can be.
One of the first things he noted about the Henley Campus in Year 9 was the existence of the fairer sex and he thoroughly enjoyed the family friendly feel of Solomon House with Mr Kildea and Mrs Ruggerio. Academia wasn’t Robert’s strongest suit, but he toiled hard in most subject areas and enjoyed calculating the numbers game. His other great love was on the sporting field, and he represented the 1st XV111 with the aplomb alongside some of his longtime friends, Belly, Toddy and little Mods.
Bussy started working for his father in the world of finance and felt right at home amongst the lead pencils, ledgers and balance sheets. He credits Danny O’Leary’s mentorship with developing his skill set, quickly learning the contrast between Left (debit) and Right (credit) sides of bookkeeping and maintaining accurate details of one’s equity and net worth.
One of his defining moments occurred in 2004 where he followed a family tradition and joined the Army Reserves. During the next four years he channelled the discipline needed to complete all aspects of the training and various roles required in the field. Joining forces with Justin Bowler provided access to a reliable client base and it wasn’t long before he became the current owner and manager of PBS Accounting at Hendon. He was conscious of establishing a family first business model as well as providing a friendly work environment for the staff.
True romance blossomed at the Sandbar in 2002 (where else), and Robert and Elicia are now the proud parents of Caitlin, Jack, Harry and Bridget who are following their own Lasallian pathways. Bussy also played local football at Henley and Ramblers and has fond memories of the 2006 premiership. He’s also heavily involved in his children’s sports, and to relax, loves his camping trips with family and friends. To complement his disciplined approach to life, he is now an accomplished marathon runner and has set his sights on completing an Ultramarathon (50 kilometres no less) in the future.
Robert’s advice is to enjoy all that life offers and embrace the opportunities you receive with both hands.
Block out the noise and treasure the friendships you create and don’t forget to think outside the square as your future isn’t defined by numbers!
Giuseppe Di Giovanni
Atherosclerosis Imaging Research Manager
Class of 2010
He ain’t heavy he’s my father…
Growing up in an Italian family in Woodville West, Giuseppe’s destiny was a foregone conclusion. Primary school at Whitefriars, secondary school at St Michael’s. He loved his time in Beaufort St and like so many others had a culture shock on day one at the Senior School. However, it didn’t take him long to adjust to being a small fish and as the years flew by, his forte became problem solving and he truly appreciated the extra time Mr Schirippa spent bringing him up to speed in Mathematics. He thoroughly enjoyed the family vibe and friendships at Henley, playing various sports such as soccer and tennis, and learning the basics in the world of science.
Curiosity became Guiseppe’s strong suit, and his love of the CSI Franchise was one of the catalysts for his decision to pursue tertiary studies in Forensics subjects including Chemistry and Biology. He completed his Honours Degree and learned many valuable life lessons, notably resilience. He returned to St Michael’s for a day volunteering in the science labs, but a phone call from SAHMRI was about to lay the foundation for his real passion and purpose in life - how to prevent heart attacks!
Guiseppe began working in the Imaging Cell Laboratory and learned the ropes on the job. He credits his mentors, Professor Stephen Nicholls and Dr Jordan Andrews, for their guidance and professionalism as he gained knowledge and expertise in the field of researching heart arteries for the next eight years. Next stop was taking on a similar role at the Victorian Health Institute for two years and his current assignment is measuring plaque burden and composition for the Monash Victorian Heart Institute. He is very pleased to say that his ground-breaking findings have been published in various international medical journals and have received positive reviews.
Guiseppe’s quest is focusing on prevention, and he’s determined to find a way of complementing Statin Therapy by reducing and lowering a patient’s bad cholesterol and ultimately prevent, diagnose and treat Atherosclerosis, the major cause of heart attacks and strokes. The love of his extended family has always been at the core of his very being and the death of his Nonno at an early age inspired his drive and determination to ensure that his research will fundamentally change the way the medical fraternity copes with our ageing population and the number of patients who die from heart related issues.
Guiseppe was taught that rewards in life are the result of hard work, total commitment and the pursuit of excellence. He’s extremely proud of his Italian heritage and has volunteered on Radio Italiano to highlight the importance of cultural traditions, encouraging younger generations to respect and value sauce days, sausage, prosciutto, wine making and helping Nonna with the pasta (cavatelli) preparation.
Guiseppe’s advice to future Lasallians is to work hard to achieve your dreams but to also enjoy all that you experience along the way and treasure your family and friends.
In honour of his father’s memory, he completed a total of 1,527.2 kilometres last year to raise awareness and support for the Mary Potter foundation, an amazing effort for someone who had never really run before. Tony will live on in the lives of all his children as “he ain’t heavy he’s our father!”
ARE THEY NOW? Where
Sally Palmer
New Car Broker - Zoom Zoom
Class of 1994
Family connections and St Michael’s College’ reputation in the western suburbs set the wheels in motion for Sally Palmer joining the Senior School in Year 11. Transferring from an all-girls background at Woodlands, St Michael’s was initially quite daunting, although her cousins and Angie Thompson made the transition somewhat easier. Little did she realise that joining the “boys club” would facilitate her pathway later in life. Susan Young and Steve Byrne encouraged her to spread her Lasallian wings and as House Captain of Jaime she developed her leadership skills, public speaking confidence and empathy which would stand her in good stead for the road ahead.
A short stint at university was followed by managerial positions at Hungry Jacks and a call centre where she continued to hone her people skills. Next grid position was joining the car industry at Smiths Motors before she responded to the call of the bush and packed her belongings for Alice Springs (perhaps blame Rachel Glasson’s invitation). Ten years passed by in the blink of an eye and working in a local car dealership was added to her resume. As Sales Manager, she flourished in an environment where everyone knew everyone and she loved supporting, encouraging and mentoring her staff in all facets of the industry. Another highlight was spent travelling for endless hours and kilometres visiting various indigenous communities and providing help and advice where needed - no traffic jams in the outback!
Sally’s regular spot-on morning radio in Alice Springs was her watershed moment as it was time to shatter the myth and stigma behind “dodgy car salesmen”. Many callers were women, and it hit home that for most clients this was going to be the second biggest purchase in their lives! Returning to Adelaide, she was forced to bide her time and undertook familiar roles in HR in call centre recruitment before joining Street Fleet Co and learning the ropes in the world of car leasing.
Armed with her experience, professionalism and most importantly being a people person, Sally set about creating her own little baby, She’s Car Curious, in 2025.
As a New Car Broker she can now maintain a healthy work-life balance and share quality time with her partner, Nilson. Despite its fledging status, there is little doubt that Sally’s charisma and integrity will see her business initiative thrive. One just has to read her customers’ reviews to know that she’s broken down any traditional barriers of trust when purchasing a new car. Her networking skills guarantee that you will receive the best deal in the marketplace - just ask Mr Sommariva. Her advice is to avoid life’s roadblocks, detours and bottle necks and ensure you build strong relationships with the people you meet on your travels. You never know when you just might bump into them in the future.
Lauren Langman
Clinical Nurse - Our Caped Crusader!
Class of 2012
Lauren was always going to be a part of the Langman family tradition (David, who graduated in 1970 and Michael who graduated in 2010), especially when girls were welcomed at the Senior Campus in 2008. She thoroughly enjoyed her formative years at St Joseph’s Hindmarsh and revelled in the SAPSASA competitions, notably athletics. She even enjoyed the stroll home along Grange Road (bag and all), especially the feeling of independence she gained alongside good friend, Carla. She loved the family feel of St Michael’s College and is grateful to ‘Mumma Bear’ (aka Ms Biggs), Mr Schwidder and Ms Jaeschke for making the transition relatively easy. As well as demonstrating her academic prowess in various curriculum areas, she loved the sporting opportunities the College provided, and she added Touch Football and Netball to her Athletics portfolio. Lauren was the recipient of numerous awards over the years including the Archbishop Wilson Award, ADF Team Recognition and the Student Citizenship Award in Year 12. Her leadership skills were evident early on and as Student Leader (from Years 8-11) and College Leader in Year 12, she adopted the College’s mantra of faith, service and community, supporting her peers as well as the wider community in ventures such as the Quiz Night and Mission Action Day. She was also instrumental in St Michael’s being a part of the ANZAC Dawn Service at Henley which has continued until today. Her involvement continued for several years after graduating and she loved her time coaching the Touch Football team.
Inspired by her regular after school visits to Nan’s, there was little doubt about her future career path. Sister Kath Langman’s red cape had pride of place in Lauren’s heart and after completing her STAT test she began a three-year Nursing degree at the UniSA City Campus. Initially tertiary life was quite daunting, and she realised she needed to adapt quickly to the “sink or swim” world of tertiary studies. Her country placements in Tumby Bay and Port Pirie encouraged her to become even more self-reliant and she thoroughly enjoyed the close-knit community experience learning her craft. She completed her TPPP application and as a qualified nurse, she rolled up her sleeves and put on
her “scrubs” and hit the ground running in various units at St Andrews and found her niche in the Recovery and Emergency Department at Calvary.
Sometimes life throws a curveball and Lauren’s was epilepsy. In 2017 she had a seizure (fortunately at St Andrews) and spent the next three years searching for answers. She underwent a strict testing regime in Sydney and unlike New Year’s Eve, her debilitating ‘fireworks’ not only took their toll but managed to stump all the specialists at the time. Her seizures are classified as idiopathic generalised epilepsy, and while there’s still no diagnosis of their cause, her neurologist Dr Michelle Kylie has provided help with renewed positivity and hope as she embraces all aspects being Lauren - I have epilepsy, but it doesn’t define me!
Upon returning to full time duties, our compassionate Clinical Nurse had a new appreciation for the patient’s journey.
She advocates for their safety and care as well as puts out spot fires, educates student nurses and graduates and works collaboratively with various medical teams. In 2024, Lauren spent a month volunteering in Pokhara, Nepal as part of the World Youth International Programme. Being ‘prepped’ by B1/B2 helped somewhat in her adjustment to the third world conditions that the locals dealt with daily. Despite the difficulties, Lauren was impressed by the camaraderie of the team and their common goal of improving the health needs of those in the medical camps they attended. What struck a chord was the locals’ stoicism, resilience and gratitude for even the simplest of gifts or treatments. She has also been the Head Trainer at the SMOSH West Lakes Football Club for a number of years and her expertise in assessment and treatment of injuries was appreciated by the ‘boys’.
As Lauren continues to serve the needs of others, her maroon, gold and blue DNA shines through and her advice to others is slip on your ‘cape’, never be afraid to put on your backpack and head off on your own solo adventuresthe universe is calling!
ARE THEY NOW? Where
Stella Koukouvitakis
Social Justice Advocate
Class of 1998
Our rebel with a cause finally joined the Lasallian community in 1997. After stints at Saint Joseph’s Hindmarsh and Siena, Stella moved to Salesians where she felt at home from day one. Little did she realise that two years later she would be at the forefront of the protest movement to keep its doors open - alas to no avail. Strangely life went full circle as her girl posse from Year 8 was reunited at St Michael’s College. Her transition was made somewhat easier by her new friendships, and she fell in love with her various character roles on stage and creating powerful messages for the audience in her storytelling.
Initially she focused on a Drama pathway after Year 12 and spent the next two years at the Centre for Performing Arts. However, she knew she needed to pursue the ‘green light’ and after numerous hospitality gigs headed off to Europe. She began to walk slower, feel the earth and realise that her dream lay somewhere in the future and she just needed to stretch her arms out further and avoid the ‘foul dust’ at all costs. Upon her return, she began working for the Red Cross and focused on youth programmes dealing with issues such as drugs, alcohol and mental health. She discovered her niche in Youth Justice and became an advocate for troubled teens. She soon learned that your past does not define you and whilst working alongside youth detainees at the Magill Training Centre, she designed various solutions that were later implemented nationally. Stella’s next challenge was using her transferable skills to co-design initiatives that would assist inmates in Adult Correction facilities and together they produced successful Community Based Health Programmes that are still used today.
In 2007 she ignored the lure of the ‘longest day of the year’ and joined Volunteer Australian Aid and the Bahaytuluyn team on the streets of Manila. Overcoming her initial culture shock, she quickly immersed herself in helping with emergency shelter, providing education where possible and was on call 24/7 where needed.
She devoted the next two years assisting the marginalised children whose lives were being impacted and exploited by the power imbalance of their world.
In an election year, the team managed to raise global awareness to their plight through various festivals and international aid and the world’s media began to somewhat address the dire circumstances of these children.
In 2010, Stella returned to Adelaide and has since juggled motherhood (Harriette and Oscar), study and work commitments, numerous committee roles and stayed sane in between. As part of the Department of Education for the past two years, she has worked alongside aboriginal women facilitating a Cultural Responsive Framework linked closely to the Closing the Gap initiative. Stella has found her version of the Mid-West and her advice to future Lasallians is to learn on the go, develop your own transferable skill sets and never try to ‘repeat the past’ as who knows what you might discover just around the next corner.
LOVE IS IN THE
Simon Bralic (Class of 2000) [1] married Hayley Coomans on 11 October 2025 at Ekidna Wines, Mclaren Vale. Their daughter, Layla [2] started at St Michael’s College in 2026.
Nicolina Di Giovanni (Class of 2014) [3] married James Buccella on 4 January 2025 at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral, followed by the reception at Sunnybrae Estate.
Cassandra Mamome (Class of 2003) [4] married Charlie Chau on 19 August 2025 at Valle di Badia in Tuscany, Italy, surrounded by closest family and friends.
