I went to the Mittagong Juniorate in 1964 after attending Lidcombe Marist Brothers. Mike Burns, Bill Waddell, Peter Renshaw, Paul McLeod and Richard Fitzpatrick also came from Lidcombe.
I returned to the Novitiate after spending a week at Joeys at the start of 1966 but left the Novitiate early in 1966 (can’t remember which month) but certainly before donning soutane/cassock and bib.
After I left the monks I got a job as a Clerk in the NSW Government Transport Department whilst I awaited entry to University in 1967. In 67 I was offered a Commonwealth Scholarship but elected to take the bonded Teachers’ Scholarship as it was financially better.
I ended up spending four years at Sydney University graduating with Honours in Geography. This led to an offer to become the first Doctoral student in Social Geography at Macquarie University. I mucked around at Macquarie for four and half years doing part-time Lecturing and Tutoring then decided I didn’t really wanted to spend the rest of my life in an institution. After my first year at Macquarie I married Mary Murphy who I had met at Sydney University. She became a secondary school teacher. I became the longest-serving trainee teacher in NSW until Neville Wran abolished the bonded system.
Looking around for a job I stumbled across a Research position as a Town Planner with the City of Sydney Council. I still had long flowing hair in those days and went to the job interview wearing a caftan and clogs. I got the position based on my impeccable dress sense. I spent a couple of years with planning then became involved with the Computerisation Project of Council which I managed for a few years. This opened my mind to the money to be had in the Computer Industry so I put myself on the market and was snapped up by NCR to consult on their Local Government Systems.
I spend 13 years with NCR in Sales & Marketing eventually becoming a Senior Manager. NCR was eventually taken over by AT&T (at the time the largest corporation in the world). I was developing the company’s strategic plan and was offered a redundancy.
I had been tracking the early emergence of the Internet and decided to look for something that combined the Internet and Education. I found this with a small company called Open Net that had been set up by the Australian Government to facilitate on-line learning. It was Open Net that established the original $5.00 per hour Internet access charge. Working at Open Net was a sizzle. One of the ‘best-hung’ boards, chaired by Brian Johns who was Managing Director of the ABC at the time. Another Board member was Daniel Petre of Microsoft. Microsoft was intending to launch a X.25 version of MSM. Open Net convinced them that the IP based Internet was the more sensible way to go. The rest is history.
After a couple of years of operation, Open Net was seen by its ‘shareholders’ (about 13 influential Universities) to pose too much of a treat to their on-line learning ambitions and we were closed down.
Fortunately, at the same time I was ‘head-hunted’ by an old mate from ICL who worked with us at the City Council. This US company was originally called Gupta. They had developed the first Development Environment and Database for Windows. However, their star was wanning. I spent around five years with the company now know as Centura and eventually as Mbrane. I managed the Asia Pacific region from India to Korea. My job involved me being ‘on the road’ for many days a month.
Mbrane went ‘belly-up’ around the time of November 11. I took stock for a year or so as I pondered what to do next. I was financially reasonably secure and looking for a retirement job. On the advice of my wife Mary I decided to ‘retire’ to teaching (she hates it when I say that but not having to travel, except during 14 weeks of holidays, was bliss for me).
Only trouble as I had never completed that Diploma of Education. So I knocked over a CertIV in AWL and approached the private school. Pittwater House at Collaroy took me on at their only Computing Studies Teacher (7-12). I enrolled in a DipEd by correspondence at UNE, did my first prac at Pittwater House and my second in Devenport in Tasmania during my school holidays the following year.
I had enjoyed going back to University so much as a student that I the enrolled and completed a Master of Education (ICT) part-time then was offered another go for a Doctorate in Education at UNE.
I taught at Pittwater House for about eight years until I suffered a heart attack about two years ago.
My doctors told me I had to:
Lose weight
Get fit
Get rid of stress from my life
I have been trying to do all three since them, to varying degrees of success.
Back when I worked for AT&T we were encouraged to give something back to our local communities. I decided to stand for election as an independent Councillor on Willoughby City Council. This was 1997. I was elected and have been subsequently re-elected for a total of four terms (17 years). Currently, this is my only gainful activity.
You may recall that I mentioned that I had married Mary back in December 1971. I refer to her as ‘my first wife’ (just in case). We are still married.
Mary and I bought a terrace in Newton soon after becoming married. We lived there for about 17 years. During this time we made a number of overseas trips to India, China and Asia. We were also active in outdoor pursuits such as camping, walking, fishing, cross-country skiing 4W driving and canoeing.
Around the time she was nearing 40 Mary turned clucky. We now have three gorgeous chicks (Jacqui – 24; Dani – 22 and Cait – 19). All lived at home until August 2010 when Jacqui and Dani bought a lovely unit together at Pymble.
Around 20 years ago we moved to Chatswood.
Mary has had a fantastic career in the NSW Government Schools system over the past 38 years. She was a classroom teacher at Chatswood High for 20 years. Head Teacher at Willoughby Girls for 10 years and Deputy Principal at Turramurra High for 8 years.
Mary has also been active in the NSW Teachers Federation over most of her teaching career. It has been suggested this is most likely the reason she was never offered a Principal’s position by the DET. To counter, her Federation involvement has been most fruitful She was the longest serving member of the NSW Board of Studies as its secondary teacher rep; the Federations Custodian for maybe 10 years, Director of Federation Health Society and Federation Law.
Mary has recently ‘seperated’ from the DET to take on a position as a Research Officer for her union for the next 3 years with the prospects of her working until she is 70.
I have decided not to proceed with my EdD but am considering starting a law degree or a Diploma in Philosophical Studies.
I am supposed to be the ‘house husband’ but Mary has been complaining that I don’t do as good a job as the cleaners we employed for many years. I am also finding keeping up the gym regime and dieting difficult. Basically, I am bone lazy and enjoy the good life too much.
I am looking forward to catching with as many of you from the days at Mittagong that I can as soon as possible. Those days still figure in the highlights of my life.
Friday, August 27, 2004
Mich Burns
Tony Glassick gave me contact details and told me of the website which I have just visited. It is hard to believe it has been so long. The photos were a revelation. I would have recognized very few if I passed them in the street. No doubt many would say the same about myself. That part of my life seems a bit of a mystery now. I have seen very few since my departure
A brief word on myself.
I have been at your alma mater for many years now. Sometimes I wonder why but the reality is I continue to enjoy teaching kids and coaching sport and I have had much satisfaction at this place. I was at St. Augustine’s, Brookvale before here. I was married to Cathie for 30 years and we have three sons, Matt, Daniel and Lucas all of whom I love with my life but, unfortunately, Dan is in Byron Bay studying whales and completing his PhD while Lucas has been in the UK for almost two years but will return in a few months. We see each other as much as is possible.
In 2000 I had leave from Joeys and taught in a bottom-of-the-barrel school in Kent in the UK. The teaching was tough but a wonderful experience. I will be back in the UK for Term 4 this year. Cathie and I are divorced and I have remarried. Presently live in Wollstonecraft in Sydney.
A lot of swimming kept me fit but I seem to have wrecked a shoulder in the process and am having trouble finding a suitable alternative exercise. Any suggestions
Sorry I will miss the re-union. I haven’t been back to the Gong since about the mid-80s when they made me go on Year 12 retreats.
Best wishes,
Mick Burns
A brief word on myself.
I have been at your alma mater for many years now. Sometimes I wonder why but the reality is I continue to enjoy teaching kids and coaching sport and I have had much satisfaction at this place. I was at St. Augustine’s, Brookvale before here. I was married to Cathie for 30 years and we have three sons, Matt, Daniel and Lucas all of whom I love with my life but, unfortunately, Dan is in Byron Bay studying whales and completing his PhD while Lucas has been in the UK for almost two years but will return in a few months. We see each other as much as is possible.
In 2000 I had leave from Joeys and taught in a bottom-of-the-barrel school in Kent in the UK. The teaching was tough but a wonderful experience. I will be back in the UK for Term 4 this year. Cathie and I are divorced and I have remarried. Presently live in Wollstonecraft in Sydney.
A lot of swimming kept me fit but I seem to have wrecked a shoulder in the process and am having trouble finding a suitable alternative exercise. Any suggestions
Sorry I will miss the re-union. I haven’t been back to the Gong since about the mid-80s when they made me go on Year 12 retreats.
Best wishes,
Mick Burns
Mich Peoples
I called in today and spoke with Mick and his parents. He is in good form. This is my account of what he said ed.)
While in the Monks, Mick spent time in many and varied places including Sri Lanka and India. Mick left the monks at the end of 1994 and has worked in a variety of jobs since including ESL teaching and, more recently, hospitality. Both Mick’s parents are still alive (looked really well!) and in their 90s. Mick is their carer and is living at home in Eastwood. Mick also cares for another sick friend. He would love to come to the re-union but is afraid that he cannot get away for the time. He sends warmest regards to all and gave Mick Prest some great photos!!
While in the Monks, Mick spent time in many and varied places including Sri Lanka and India. Mick left the monks at the end of 1994 and has worked in a variety of jobs since including ESL teaching and, more recently, hospitality. Both Mick’s parents are still alive (looked really well!) and in their 90s. Mick is their carer and is living at home in Eastwood. Mick also cares for another sick friend. He would love to come to the re-union but is afraid that he cannot get away for the time. He sends warmest regards to all and gave Mick Prest some great photos!!
Raf Garafano
Hi, all and yes I still cut my toast into four pieces, some habits are just not easy to shake.
Work:
Within a month of being dropped of at railway station by Br.Ambrose that December 1966 I scored a job with Wundelich Limited. Within 18 months the company was taken over by CSR Ltd and there I remained till I was the last man standing of my generation, and on 1 July 2005 I deleted my files closed my PC and walked out. Not retired just got of the merry go around and changed direction.
Family:
In November1974 Margaret and I married after a short romance. Having children escaped us for a considerable time. Then in June 1986 Angelina arrived and our life change (for the better of course). Margaret still works, Angelina is in Europe traveling
Interests:
For those that remember my brewing adventures with rhubarb, apple juice, well over the years I refined the process and I report I got better, but my body overtime got worse and rebelled against my brews, so like all good things it ended. Fishing (kiss and put them back) has been my passion for many years. Fished all over Australia from Cape York to Ceduna and Tasmania. I still go when I can round up other willing souls to come with me.
At the present I have just completed my first semester at Ryde TAFE doing a 3 year Certificate Coarse in Horticulture. (Just to keep the mind clicking along) Needles to say my eyes lit up whence the topic of grape propagation and cultivation was discussed. Ah’ to brew a good cab/Sauvignon from grape to glass, now there is a challenge.
I have enjoyed reading the Biogs, thank you for the memories, look forward to seeing as many as possible at Mittagong. Till we meet keep well.
Work:
Within a month of being dropped of at railway station by Br.Ambrose that December 1966 I scored a job with Wundelich Limited. Within 18 months the company was taken over by CSR Ltd and there I remained till I was the last man standing of my generation, and on 1 July 2005 I deleted my files closed my PC and walked out. Not retired just got of the merry go around and changed direction.
Family:
In November1974 Margaret and I married after a short romance. Having children escaped us for a considerable time. Then in June 1986 Angelina arrived and our life change (for the better of course). Margaret still works, Angelina is in Europe traveling
Interests:
For those that remember my brewing adventures with rhubarb, apple juice, well over the years I refined the process and I report I got better, but my body overtime got worse and rebelled against my brews, so like all good things it ended. Fishing (kiss and put them back) has been my passion for many years. Fished all over Australia from Cape York to Ceduna and Tasmania. I still go when I can round up other willing souls to come with me.
At the present I have just completed my first semester at Ryde TAFE doing a 3 year Certificate Coarse in Horticulture. (Just to keep the mind clicking along) Needles to say my eyes lit up whence the topic of grape propagation and cultivation was discussed. Ah’ to brew a good cab/Sauvignon from grape to glass, now there is a challenge.
I have enjoyed reading the Biogs, thank you for the memories, look forward to seeing as many as possible at Mittagong. Till we meet keep well.
Denis Bristow
Wow 40 years does pass quickly and in my case quietly. I can’t wait to meet you all again. I really don’t think we will get through the whole agenda in the time allotted.
Well since January 1967 when I finally (after two attempts) left the Novitiate I settled down into a work routine as a civilian with the Dept of Army at Moorebank. I enjoyed the job there very much and didn’t have any problem with the discipline required of me in a military environment. I think Ambrose’ influence rubbed off on me at the Nov!!!
(Will I ever forget the episode of the axe and obedience. I think you people heard my interplanetary conversation with him while Br Fergus was taking you for class on that memorable morning.) Eventually I ended up in the newly formed Army training Command for three years and this proved to be the basis of my moving into the adult education field for the next 30 years, including running my own Human Resources Consulting business for 12 years before eventually taking up a position with Centacare Campbelltown in 2000 as a Personal Support Program Case Worker. To do this I completed a Graduate Diploma in Counselling with the Institute of Counselling under the guidance of Ron Perry one of my former teachers at the Mittagong Juniorate. My consulting business took me to London twice and then Singapore and many times into the major cities of Aus.
I am married to Lyn with three adult children: Melissa, Nathan and Johanna. The two girls are married to two great men. Melissa has two children; Breanna and Kieran so that makes me a grandfather (Pa). Melissa is the Manager of the Intensive Care neo Natal Unit at Campbelltown Hospital and is doing very well in that position. She appears to know more than the Drs. Johanna is an Occupational Therapist and is very highly regarded in that field. Nathan is a qualified Greenkeeper and Bricklayer. Still single and has recently retired from rugby league. He played for two clubs in Group 6 CRL: Appin and Oakdale Workers.
I am now retired (having reached 65) and am referred to as officially an “old fart.”
I was fortunate enough to be able to stay in contact with Br Fergus, a man who I always admired and learnt so much from in terms of personal development. I would visit him at St Gregs and he would always say….”welcome brother would you like a cup of tea.” One day I said “No thanks I would prefer a whisky with ice and water’ to which he replied….”I will have to go over to the house and get it, just wait a while.” It took me a while to convince him I was only joking. I attended the good man’s funeral and it was good to see so many of his former students in attendance. What a saintly man he was.
I am heavily involved in my parish St Thomas More Ruse. I have become the powerpoint “expert” and enjoy doing it immensely because the pp leaves it to me and my small group to be as innovative as we like as long as we stay within the spirit of the liturgy each Sunday. I am beginning to worry that parishioners are coming to look at the pictures rather than attend for mass!!!! I am also part of the Stewardship group and we are currently drawing up the program to introduce the whole parish to the concept.
I often reflect over the last 40 or so years and my time at school with the Marist Brothers and my experiences of the Juniorate and Novitiate, and realise what a positive influence those experiences were.
As I said at the beginning I can’t wait to meet you all and exchange life stories etc.
Best wishes,
Denis Bristow
Well since January 1967 when I finally (after two attempts) left the Novitiate I settled down into a work routine as a civilian with the Dept of Army at Moorebank. I enjoyed the job there very much and didn’t have any problem with the discipline required of me in a military environment. I think Ambrose’ influence rubbed off on me at the Nov!!!
(Will I ever forget the episode of the axe and obedience. I think you people heard my interplanetary conversation with him while Br Fergus was taking you for class on that memorable morning.) Eventually I ended up in the newly formed Army training Command for three years and this proved to be the basis of my moving into the adult education field for the next 30 years, including running my own Human Resources Consulting business for 12 years before eventually taking up a position with Centacare Campbelltown in 2000 as a Personal Support Program Case Worker. To do this I completed a Graduate Diploma in Counselling with the Institute of Counselling under the guidance of Ron Perry one of my former teachers at the Mittagong Juniorate. My consulting business took me to London twice and then Singapore and many times into the major cities of Aus.
I am married to Lyn with three adult children: Melissa, Nathan and Johanna. The two girls are married to two great men. Melissa has two children; Breanna and Kieran so that makes me a grandfather (Pa). Melissa is the Manager of the Intensive Care neo Natal Unit at Campbelltown Hospital and is doing very well in that position. She appears to know more than the Drs. Johanna is an Occupational Therapist and is very highly regarded in that field. Nathan is a qualified Greenkeeper and Bricklayer. Still single and has recently retired from rugby league. He played for two clubs in Group 6 CRL: Appin and Oakdale Workers.
I am now retired (having reached 65) and am referred to as officially an “old fart.”
I was fortunate enough to be able to stay in contact with Br Fergus, a man who I always admired and learnt so much from in terms of personal development. I would visit him at St Gregs and he would always say….”welcome brother would you like a cup of tea.” One day I said “No thanks I would prefer a whisky with ice and water’ to which he replied….”I will have to go over to the house and get it, just wait a while.” It took me a while to convince him I was only joking. I attended the good man’s funeral and it was good to see so many of his former students in attendance. What a saintly man he was.
I am heavily involved in my parish St Thomas More Ruse. I have become the powerpoint “expert” and enjoy doing it immensely because the pp leaves it to me and my small group to be as innovative as we like as long as we stay within the spirit of the liturgy each Sunday. I am beginning to worry that parishioners are coming to look at the pictures rather than attend for mass!!!! I am also part of the Stewardship group and we are currently drawing up the program to introduce the whole parish to the concept.
I often reflect over the last 40 or so years and my time at school with the Marist Brothers and my experiences of the Juniorate and Novitiate, and realise what a positive influence those experiences were.
As I said at the beginning I can’t wait to meet you all and exchange life stories etc.
Best wishes,
Denis Bristow
Colin Coles
Hi everyone
A brief history since leaving the Marist end of 1968.
1969: Taught at De La Salle Kingsgove
1970: 1st yeart PE, Wollongong Teacher's College
1971-1982: Commonwealth Employment Service, Clerical/CareersAdviser.
Purchased & renovated houses/units at nights & weekends.
1980: Married Narelle, we have two children; Kieran 24 and Nathan 16.
1982-1993: Property Officer for CES and continued with own real estate
1993-- Self employed. We purchased a beef cattle property (2300acres) at Binnaway
in 1996.
During the above years played a lot of football. Still swim and body surf each day when in Sydney.Coached numerous sporting teams. Have travelled to North America twice and South East Asia. Looking forward to seeing everyone again!
A brief history since leaving the Marist end of 1968.
1969: Taught at De La Salle Kingsgove
1970: 1st yeart PE, Wollongong Teacher's College
1971-1982: Commonwealth Employment Service, Clerical/CareersAdviser.
Purchased & renovated houses/units at nights & weekends.
1980: Married Narelle, we have two children; Kieran 24 and Nathan 16.
1982-1993: Property Officer for CES and continued with own real estate
1993-- Self employed. We purchased a beef cattle property (2300acres) at Binnaway
in 1996.
During the above years played a lot of football. Still swim and body surf each day when in Sydney.Coached numerous sporting teams. Have travelled to North America twice and South East Asia. Looking forward to seeing everyone again!
Michael Evesson
Thank you so much for getting in touch - I've enjoyed some time this morning looking at your web site etc (instead of working and earning some money !). You can see how hard I work by looking at our little site (no where near as inter-active as yours) at http://www.hirst.com.au/ - it sits out there primarily as an advertisement for the consultancy. At this stage I might have trouble getting to the reunion because of other commitments, but I'll get back to you on that. I shall, however, at least try and pen a few paras of biog over the next few days, and find a family snap or two, and send them to you. I find this process of re-uniting people via the digital paths both fascinating and very effective.
Do you remember my father, Ernie ? He is still going, at 94 this year, and living in a hostel at Drummoyne. He will be pleased to hear I've talked to you - for some reason you impressed him years ago (must have been your boyish good looks) so that your name has been one of the few 'monk-related' names he will still mention when telling stories from that era !
Regards,
Michael Evesson
Do you remember my father, Ernie ? He is still going, at 94 this year, and living in a hostel at Drummoyne. He will be pleased to hear I've talked to you - for some reason you impressed him years ago (must have been your boyish good looks) so that your name has been one of the few 'monk-related' names he will still mention when telling stories from that era !
Regards,
Michael Evesson
Peter Murphy
Dear Mick.
Thank you for your letter and your request for some information about Peter’s life. I have enclosed two photos of Peter.
The weekend that you are organizing for your 40th sounds great. It should be wonderful to catch up with everyone.
Mick, it was lovely to speak with you on the phone. Peter had often talked about you all and even though I never met you, I felt I knew you. And I agree with what you said during our phone conversation: “They had the pick of the crop!”
Wishing you a happy and successful re-union,
Fondest regards and best wishes,
Robyn Murphy.
Peter Francis Murphy:
· Born: Dec 7 1940
· Primary School Dominican Sisters Mayfield
· Secondary School: Hamilton Marist Brothers, School Captain 1957
· Tertiary Education:
§ Newcastle Uni (then UNSW) B.Sc. 1964, B.Ed.Studies 1979
· Marist Novitiate 1966
· Married to Robyn 1967
· Family Six children All now Uni graduates.
§ Mark Lawyer
§ Richard Civil Engineer
§ Luke Doctor
§ Tamara Pharmacist
§ Sonya Chartered Accountant
§ Dominic Information Science
§ There are now 9 grandchildren. Peter only got to see two.
· Career:
· Teaching:
o Maths Master Springwood High 1970
o Deputy Oberon High 1978
o Deputy Warners Bay
· Principal Singleton High 1983 – 1998
· Died 5th November 1999
(I spoke to the secretary at Singleton to get Robyn’s number. She said how wonderful Peter was and how loved by all the people there. Peter got cancer and fought it for several years before being forced to retire at 57. He died at 59.
I didn’t know he had died and was really saddened to hear. Mick Prest (editor!)
Thank you for your letter and your request for some information about Peter’s life. I have enclosed two photos of Peter.
The weekend that you are organizing for your 40th sounds great. It should be wonderful to catch up with everyone.
Mick, it was lovely to speak with you on the phone. Peter had often talked about you all and even though I never met you, I felt I knew you. And I agree with what you said during our phone conversation: “They had the pick of the crop!”
Wishing you a happy and successful re-union,
Fondest regards and best wishes,
Robyn Murphy.
Peter Francis Murphy:
· Born: Dec 7 1940
· Primary School Dominican Sisters Mayfield
· Secondary School: Hamilton Marist Brothers, School Captain 1957
· Tertiary Education:
§ Newcastle Uni (then UNSW) B.Sc. 1964, B.Ed.Studies 1979
· Marist Novitiate 1966
· Married to Robyn 1967
· Family Six children All now Uni graduates.
§ Mark Lawyer
§ Richard Civil Engineer
§ Luke Doctor
§ Tamara Pharmacist
§ Sonya Chartered Accountant
§ Dominic Information Science
§ There are now 9 grandchildren. Peter only got to see two.
· Career:
· Teaching:
o Maths Master Springwood High 1970
o Deputy Oberon High 1978
o Deputy Warners Bay
· Principal Singleton High 1983 – 1998
· Died 5th November 1999
(I spoke to the secretary at Singleton to get Robyn’s number. She said how wonderful Peter was and how loved by all the people there. Peter got cancer and fought it for several years before being forced to retire at 57. He died at 59.
I didn’t know he had died and was really saddened to hear. Mick Prest (editor!)
Ron Holmes
After one year at Dundas Scholasticate – a different year – I taught for a year at Kogarah and then taught year four in 1970 and 1971 at Rosalie from where I left the monks.
I then taught with Brisbane Catholic Education and took up the position of principal at Kenmore in 1976, the same year Jane and I were married. I met Jane, who hailed from Cairns, when on staff at Kenmore. We have three great children: Paul, a lawyer with Clayton Utz here in Brisbane is off to study a masters in space law at the University of London later in the year; Daniel has one year of a Podiatry degree to complete, and Becky has just accepted a position as a psychologist with Centre Link.
Having had a mixed experience of tertiary education in Sydney I eventually gained degrees in Arts and Education at the same time as our children arrived – a big pressure at the time on Jane. The best experience – history – I love it. The worst experience – Jane and I tackling German and the German tutor at The University of Queensland. I eventually completed a Masters in Educational Leadership.
In 1983 I accepted a position as school supervisor with Brisbane Catholic Education and have filled various positions there ever since. I currently manage our HR team and love the work. It is great to be part of a fast growing organization.
I look back on the years and count my blessings. Great learning experiences which did not always go the way I planned, good career experiences and a lovely wife and family.
I then taught with Brisbane Catholic Education and took up the position of principal at Kenmore in 1976, the same year Jane and I were married. I met Jane, who hailed from Cairns, when on staff at Kenmore. We have three great children: Paul, a lawyer with Clayton Utz here in Brisbane is off to study a masters in space law at the University of London later in the year; Daniel has one year of a Podiatry degree to complete, and Becky has just accepted a position as a psychologist with Centre Link.
Having had a mixed experience of tertiary education in Sydney I eventually gained degrees in Arts and Education at the same time as our children arrived – a big pressure at the time on Jane. The best experience – history – I love it. The worst experience – Jane and I tackling German and the German tutor at The University of Queensland. I eventually completed a Masters in Educational Leadership.
In 1983 I accepted a position as school supervisor with Brisbane Catholic Education and have filled various positions there ever since. I currently manage our HR team and love the work. It is great to be part of a fast growing organization.
I look back on the years and count my blessings. Great learning experiences which did not always go the way I planned, good career experiences and a lovely wife and family.
Bill Waddell
Dear All
Hope you are all well. Looking back over 40 years is a bit scary.
The Principal at Santa Sabina Strathfield had heard that I was leaving the monks at Easter (1974) and so contacted me at Ashgrove to take up a science position with them. After returning to Sydney I reluctantly went and talked to them (I had intended to have a go in Govt schools) and they talked me into it. They also talked me into being Science Coordinator which began a steep learning curve for me. (Ann Clark, of CEO Parra fame, was on my science staff at this time -she had just left the convent!). The nuns at Santa treated me extremely well and for 2 years invited me to stay (rent free) at their ‘Berith Park’ mansion at Wahroonga (was the Novitiate for a while I think). I bought my present house in Eastwood in 1978. Many of my Santa students from those days are still my close friends.
In 1980 I became Assistant Principal at the now Mercy College at Chatswood- it used to be coed in Yrs.11&12 with St.Pius Christian Bros. My main teaching areas were physics, maths and RE. John Watkins (the present Deputy Premier) was on our staff for 2 years and besides being close mates we shared senior RE classes. He is a top fellow.
I decided to take the second half of 1982 off and ‘travel the world’ … which I did! In 1983 I became the Assistant Principal at St.Johns Auburn which then amalgamated into Trinity where Paul Fensom now reigns and doing a great job.
In 1998 I left Trinity to be AP at a new amalgamating De La Salle school at Bankstown( LaSalle College). You may remember Br. Ambrose Payne from football days at the Schol(a tough little hooker!)- he was my Principal…and a truly great man.
After working with the Dominicans at Santa, the Mercy nuns and Christies at Chatswood, the Daughters of Charity at Auburn and the De La Salles in Bankstown, I returned to the Marist fold in 2002 when I became the AP at St.Pats Dundas- a lovely 960 coed. 5 minutes from home.
As you can see my career reached a plateau in 1980 where I have roamed ever since!
In 1983 I met Therese (a good looking science teacher!) and we married in 1986. We now have 5 kids -Hayden (19- Ecs. at Syd.Uni), Patrick(17-Yr.11), James(13-Yr.7), Joshua(12-Yr.6) and Emma(8-Yr.2). I started late but made up for it! They are all going well, enjoying multiple sports and musical instruments- Therese teaches piano. I spent many of my pre-kids years sailing competitively on the harbour and doing a number of shows with the Parramatta Musical Society (a few G&S productions) but since kids…an occasional game of golf with my sons if I’m lucky. The majority of my out of school time is spent on kid related activities.
Last year Therese & I went to Europe for 5 weeks with part of that time being with the Hermitage ’05 group and spent some time with the Brothers at The Hermitage in France.
My greatest treasure … a loving family.
My wishes for the future… own a boat and do more overseas travel.
My only chance …win lotto!!
Enjoy life
Bill Waddell
Hope you are all well. Looking back over 40 years is a bit scary.
The Principal at Santa Sabina Strathfield had heard that I was leaving the monks at Easter (1974) and so contacted me at Ashgrove to take up a science position with them. After returning to Sydney I reluctantly went and talked to them (I had intended to have a go in Govt schools) and they talked me into it. They also talked me into being Science Coordinator which began a steep learning curve for me. (Ann Clark, of CEO Parra fame, was on my science staff at this time -she had just left the convent!). The nuns at Santa treated me extremely well and for 2 years invited me to stay (rent free) at their ‘Berith Park’ mansion at Wahroonga (was the Novitiate for a while I think). I bought my present house in Eastwood in 1978. Many of my Santa students from those days are still my close friends.
In 1980 I became Assistant Principal at the now Mercy College at Chatswood- it used to be coed in Yrs.11&12 with St.Pius Christian Bros. My main teaching areas were physics, maths and RE. John Watkins (the present Deputy Premier) was on our staff for 2 years and besides being close mates we shared senior RE classes. He is a top fellow.
I decided to take the second half of 1982 off and ‘travel the world’ … which I did! In 1983 I became the Assistant Principal at St.Johns Auburn which then amalgamated into Trinity where Paul Fensom now reigns and doing a great job.
In 1998 I left Trinity to be AP at a new amalgamating De La Salle school at Bankstown( LaSalle College). You may remember Br. Ambrose Payne from football days at the Schol(a tough little hooker!)- he was my Principal…and a truly great man.
After working with the Dominicans at Santa, the Mercy nuns and Christies at Chatswood, the Daughters of Charity at Auburn and the De La Salles in Bankstown, I returned to the Marist fold in 2002 when I became the AP at St.Pats Dundas- a lovely 960 coed. 5 minutes from home.
As you can see my career reached a plateau in 1980 where I have roamed ever since!
In 1983 I met Therese (a good looking science teacher!) and we married in 1986. We now have 5 kids -Hayden (19- Ecs. at Syd.Uni), Patrick(17-Yr.11), James(13-Yr.7), Joshua(12-Yr.6) and Emma(8-Yr.2). I started late but made up for it! They are all going well, enjoying multiple sports and musical instruments- Therese teaches piano. I spent many of my pre-kids years sailing competitively on the harbour and doing a number of shows with the Parramatta Musical Society (a few G&S productions) but since kids…an occasional game of golf with my sons if I’m lucky. The majority of my out of school time is spent on kid related activities.
Last year Therese & I went to Europe for 5 weeks with part of that time being with the Hermitage ’05 group and spent some time with the Brothers at The Hermitage in France.
My greatest treasure … a loving family.
My wishes for the future… own a boat and do more overseas travel.
My only chance …win lotto!!
Enjoy life
Bill Waddell
Ian Boorman
We have finalised our itinerary and we won't be back in Sydney till 7 July. Also I don't have access to allow me to send pictures or biography but would like to make contact on our return.I will keep all the details and give you a yell. Please say hello for me on the night.A short history is that I am married, 35 years, Three children, 6 grandchildren and another on the way. I did an apprenticeship with Qantas, national service then joined NSW Fire Brigades from which I retired in March 2003. We are on our first long trip half way round this great country. 71/2 weeks so far and 31/2 to go.
Wayne Curran
After leaving the Schol I had three years in Casino. Then four years at Ayr. Ayr was great1 Great fellows in the community. Absurdly, I was made TIC P after only three years. Then, when we went co-ed with the Convent School, I was the Deputy Principal.!
After four years in Ayr, six in Daceyville, the last couple as Principal, I left the monksat the end of 1981. I secured a job as Principal of a delightful school at Tarro in the Maitland-Newcastle Diocese. I had upgraded my qualifications to Dip Teach at Bathurst, so I began to study for a Dip. ED at Armidale. In August ’82 I married the light of my life, Theresa (Alvos).
In 1984, I started as Principal at Mt. St. Patrick Primary School in Murwillumbah. I finished the Armidale study and began a Masters in Education in RE with ACU. In 1986 we adopted Thomas Kim Wayne Curran from South Korea. In 1992, we adopted Philip Andrew Kim, also from South Korea.
Murwillumbah was great! Theresa had a number of piano students, we were both involved in the music ministry in the Parish Church, I was in Rotary and I was generally enjoying school. Overall I was fairly well.
In my tenth year I finished the Masters and the Parish Priest told me he thought it was time to “move on”! He wasn’t dissatisfied with my work; he “just thought that it was time to move on!”
We went to Casino where I was Principal of an Infants School. That was a really interesting time. I taught half days Year Two! It required a whole range of skills that I didn’t know I had! In the third year I started to get really sick with my chest. At the end of that year I resigned. After 8 years in Casino we moved to this delightful corner of South East Queensland! Three minutes by car to the beaches!
In June 2005, I was diagnosed with Cirrhosis of the Liver (all those years of heavy drinking!). They still don’t know what caused it.
So, since that June, I have been in and out of hospital, well and truly using our hospital insurance with MBF!
Therese works part-time as a Child Care Assistant in South Tweed Heads. Thomas is working at the Marriott in Surfers Paradise.
Between us, Therese and I are educating Philip (Philip has Tourette Syndrome) at home using the Brisbane School of Distance Education materials.
That’s it. I take each day as the gift it is and carpe diem.
Best wishes to all for a great reunion, I’m sorry I can’t make it. Wayne
After four years in Ayr, six in Daceyville, the last couple as Principal, I left the monksat the end of 1981. I secured a job as Principal of a delightful school at Tarro in the Maitland-Newcastle Diocese. I had upgraded my qualifications to Dip Teach at Bathurst, so I began to study for a Dip. ED at Armidale. In August ’82 I married the light of my life, Theresa (Alvos).
In 1984, I started as Principal at Mt. St. Patrick Primary School in Murwillumbah. I finished the Armidale study and began a Masters in Education in RE with ACU. In 1986 we adopted Thomas Kim Wayne Curran from South Korea. In 1992, we adopted Philip Andrew Kim, also from South Korea.
Murwillumbah was great! Theresa had a number of piano students, we were both involved in the music ministry in the Parish Church, I was in Rotary and I was generally enjoying school. Overall I was fairly well.
In my tenth year I finished the Masters and the Parish Priest told me he thought it was time to “move on”! He wasn’t dissatisfied with my work; he “just thought that it was time to move on!”
We went to Casino where I was Principal of an Infants School. That was a really interesting time. I taught half days Year Two! It required a whole range of skills that I didn’t know I had! In the third year I started to get really sick with my chest. At the end of that year I resigned. After 8 years in Casino we moved to this delightful corner of South East Queensland! Three minutes by car to the beaches!
In June 2005, I was diagnosed with Cirrhosis of the Liver (all those years of heavy drinking!). They still don’t know what caused it.
So, since that June, I have been in and out of hospital, well and truly using our hospital insurance with MBF!
Therese works part-time as a Child Care Assistant in South Tweed Heads. Thomas is working at the Marriott in Surfers Paradise.
Between us, Therese and I are educating Philip (Philip has Tourette Syndrome) at home using the Brisbane School of Distance Education materials.
That’s it. I take each day as the gift it is and carpe diem.
Best wishes to all for a great reunion, I’m sorry I can’t make it. Wayne
Br. Tony Burrows
Since leaving the Scholasticate in 1968 I taught at Gladstone (3 years), Innisfail (2), Kogarah (2), Innisfail (8) including the last three as Principal. Then to St Josephs College. The first three years I did B.Ed (Industrial Arts) while taking Dorms, sports teams, night study etc. Then another three yrs in charge of Yr 11. 1991 went too Rosalie as Principal. 1996 to Manziana and Chicago where I completed M.RE.\
1997 arrived in Solomon Islands - Vanga Point. I started off as deputy Principal to a local Brother. Taught a variety of vocational subjects and started helping local staff develop teaching skills. All were qualified in trades but no teacher training. This later developed into establishment of a nationally recognized Teachers college at Vanga.1993 became Principal of the Rural Training Centre. The place continues to develop. The Rural training centre is expanding in size and range of subjects, the Teachers College is about to be doubled in size and we have started to build a Primary school for the local people. I am on a National board to implement Vocational Education policy in the country.This is a work that I thoroughly enjoy. We work with many of the most disadvantaged in the country and there is a real sense for me of doing the work of Champagnat.Regards to all. Sorry I'll miss the gathering at Mittagong
1997 arrived in Solomon Islands - Vanga Point. I started off as deputy Principal to a local Brother. Taught a variety of vocational subjects and started helping local staff develop teaching skills. All were qualified in trades but no teacher training. This later developed into establishment of a nationally recognized Teachers college at Vanga.1993 became Principal of the Rural Training Centre. The place continues to develop. The Rural training centre is expanding in size and range of subjects, the Teachers College is about to be doubled in size and we have started to build a Primary school for the local people. I am on a National board to implement Vocational Education policy in the country.This is a work that I thoroughly enjoy. We work with many of the most disadvantaged in the country and there is a real sense for me of doing the work of Champagnat.Regards to all. Sorry I'll miss the gathering at Mittagong
Terry Kachel
After Ethelred drove me to the Mittagong station at 6am in the August of 66I bought a packet of B&H and continued smoking till my 3 kids made me stop in 84.By the 7/7/77 I was the husband of the beautiful Christine and dad to the georgeous Angela.By the 8/8/88 I was still the husband of the even more beautiful Christine and the delighted dad of Angela, Michael, Simon, Jenny, Nick and Rebecca.In between time I became a folkloric teacher in Bingara, Tamworth and Newcastle, and played rugby league in Tamworth and Newcastle at levels that gave me great personal satisfaction.Recently, between the weddings of Angela in January and Simon in April in the USA, I have suffered a heart attack. I seem to have recovered really well. I am now medically retired from teaching in the public school system. I gave great service to that system and ask why we need a private system.Since I have turned 55, I have also learned we need to acknowledge the following axioms :
1] you can never walk past a public toilet
2] you should never waste an erection
3] and you should never, never, never trust a fart.so my good freres, in Blessed Marcellin we pray etc etc
I have been extremely uplifted by this invite to the 40 year reunion - an event I have yearned for over the past two or three decades.
I will never forget the Mittagong years. I have toured briefly the grounds with my wife and a couple of my kids and enjoyed the glow of saying "I planted those pine trees on the back oval in 1965."But now when I look at the list of names on this roll, I feel a great wave of nostalgia sweep over me of an experience that was available to a rare, small percentage of the youth of the 60s.I'll try to recreate the deeds we lived through: the woodpile, the boiler, the meat room, the slaughter shed, the orchard, the dairy, epsom salts for Ethelred, Domdavid, the hacking cough of ......as confession unfolded, Bob McKay's choirs,, midnight walks down at the airstrip, the Geoff Kelly descant recorder lessons.. etc etc.. and when people ask why???Well they were years I'll never swap. they were just right for me. but Iwouldn't recommend them for others!
Can't wait to see you all Terry Kachel
1] you can never walk past a public toilet
2] you should never waste an erection
3] and you should never, never, never trust a fart.so my good freres, in Blessed Marcellin we pray etc etc
I have been extremely uplifted by this invite to the 40 year reunion - an event I have yearned for over the past two or three decades.
I will never forget the Mittagong years. I have toured briefly the grounds with my wife and a couple of my kids and enjoyed the glow of saying "I planted those pine trees on the back oval in 1965."But now when I look at the list of names on this roll, I feel a great wave of nostalgia sweep over me of an experience that was available to a rare, small percentage of the youth of the 60s.I'll try to recreate the deeds we lived through: the woodpile, the boiler, the meat room, the slaughter shed, the orchard, the dairy, epsom salts for Ethelred, Domdavid, the hacking cough of ......as confession unfolded, Bob McKay's choirs,, midnight walks down at the airstrip, the Geoff Kelly descant recorder lessons.. etc etc.. and when people ask why???Well they were years I'll never swap. they were just right for me. but Iwouldn't recommend them for others!
Can't wait to see you all Terry Kachel
John Penny
After the Nov 6months at St Gregs
After the Schol I taught as a monk at Rosalie,Kogarah, Kieta with Dan McEwen( before the civil war)
Parra Marist and then 6 years at St Vincents- I enjoyed it all especially Kieta and the Boys Home
I left the monks in 1981 and taught At De La Salle Ashfield , then 5 very active yrs – good fun-at Benedict Community School I took over from John Moulds and Geoff George followed me.
I was the foundation Deputy at Emmaus at Erskine Park for 7 yrs- the early yrs were good fun.Met up with Steve Esler out Penrith way.
I then came to Marist Ed Centre with Bill Selden as my boss and when he took study leave Bill passed the baton to me some 10 yrs ago and this has been good fun- I had to get some Quals in Counselling so eventually after 8 yrs study/ supervision I was able to register as a Psychologist - some of this was useful especially some family counselling courses at UWS.
I also did Edcation at Sydney Uni and RE at ACU so Uni of NSW is the only uni I missed -in all I have attended
Macq Uni across more than 30 yrs- slow learner !
I have been married, to Bernadette, since 1983 and have 3 boys 22, 15, 13 and a daughter 11 – so I will have to work for a few more yrs –with the kids lots of Rugby/hockey - not much cricket not much Study either . I have seen Col Coles at Rugby a few times
I played hockey and cricket until mid 30's and have done a lot of canoeing trips over the yrs with schools, boys home and now my own kids - mainly to Barrington River near Gloucester
Br. Sevard taught us canoeing and canoe building - Tony Burrows and myself got it going at Kogarah. Frank Hough was on one of the Br Sevard Trips in 1974 to the Barrington and Mick Prest and Darryl Slater came on some trips as did Mick Galvin and Geoff Kellly and Mick Jones with St Vincents.
Also, Raf Garafano came on a ski-ing trip with Benedict Community School in the mid 80’s
These days I love golf and play as often as I can - some trips to Murray , Mornington and TAS . I had some time o/s and was lucky to get a game at the old course at St Andrews !
After the Schol I taught as a monk at Rosalie,Kogarah, Kieta with Dan McEwen( before the civil war)
Parra Marist and then 6 years at St Vincents- I enjoyed it all especially Kieta and the Boys Home
I left the monks in 1981 and taught At De La Salle Ashfield , then 5 very active yrs – good fun-at Benedict Community School I took over from John Moulds and Geoff George followed me.
I was the foundation Deputy at Emmaus at Erskine Park for 7 yrs- the early yrs were good fun.Met up with Steve Esler out Penrith way.
I then came to Marist Ed Centre with Bill Selden as my boss and when he took study leave Bill passed the baton to me some 10 yrs ago and this has been good fun- I had to get some Quals in Counselling so eventually after 8 yrs study/ supervision I was able to register as a Psychologist - some of this was useful especially some family counselling courses at UWS.
I also did Edcation at Sydney Uni and RE at ACU so Uni of NSW is the only uni I missed -in all I have attended
Macq Uni across more than 30 yrs- slow learner !
I have been married, to Bernadette, since 1983 and have 3 boys 22, 15, 13 and a daughter 11 – so I will have to work for a few more yrs –with the kids lots of Rugby/hockey - not much cricket not much Study either . I have seen Col Coles at Rugby a few times
I played hockey and cricket until mid 30's and have done a lot of canoeing trips over the yrs with schools, boys home and now my own kids - mainly to Barrington River near Gloucester
Br. Sevard taught us canoeing and canoe building - Tony Burrows and myself got it going at Kogarah. Frank Hough was on one of the Br Sevard Trips in 1974 to the Barrington and Mick Prest and Darryl Slater came on some trips as did Mick Galvin and Geoff Kellly and Mick Jones with St Vincents.
Also, Raf Garafano came on a ski-ing trip with Benedict Community School in the mid 80’s
These days I love golf and play as often as I can - some trips to Murray , Mornington and TAS . I had some time o/s and was lucky to get a game at the old course at St Andrews !
Br. Cas Novak
Here are my wanderings around the Province for the last 40 years.
1970 Greg’s Campbelltown
1970 -72 St. Benedict’s , Auburn
1973 – 74 Kieta, Bouganville.
1975 Cairns. (John Penny eat your heart out!)
1976 – 80 Rosalie.
1981 – 86 Ashgrove.
1987 – 89 Eastwood. Studying at Catholic College of Education.
1990 – 91 Retired. General duties. Parramatta.
1992 – 2002 St.Patrick’s, Dundas. Archives.
2002 - … Parramatta Marist High.
1990 – 2004 : I spent in the wilderness. Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert. Why would God want to choose somebody with psychoneurosis, chronic anxiety, paranoia, depression, diabetes and tension? Mystery of God’s choice? I spent 18 years in therapy. I still do half and hour of therapy everyday. I stopped struggling with it and have accepted it peacefully. My health has improved so I am happier, more peaceful and more content.
This notice appeared in a Church Bulletin: Don’t let worry kill you. Let the Church help!
Lots of love and prayerful support, Cas.
1970 Greg’s Campbelltown
1970 -72 St. Benedict’s , Auburn
1973 – 74 Kieta, Bouganville.
1975 Cairns. (John Penny eat your heart out!)
1976 – 80 Rosalie.
1981 – 86 Ashgrove.
1987 – 89 Eastwood. Studying at Catholic College of Education.
1990 – 91 Retired. General duties. Parramatta.
1992 – 2002 St.Patrick’s, Dundas. Archives.
2002 - … Parramatta Marist High.
1990 – 2004 : I spent in the wilderness. Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert. Why would God want to choose somebody with psychoneurosis, chronic anxiety, paranoia, depression, diabetes and tension? Mystery of God’s choice? I spent 18 years in therapy. I still do half and hour of therapy everyday. I stopped struggling with it and have accepted it peacefully. My health has improved so I am happier, more peaceful and more content.
This notice appeared in a Church Bulletin: Don’t let worry kill you. Let the Church help!
Lots of love and prayerful support, Cas.
Frank Borg
After I left Mittagong I eventually went onto graduate in psychology. Worked in that field for about 15 years and moved into adult education and the human resources field for various federal and stae goverment departments.
In 1999 I took a redundancy from the RTA to work fulltime with my son in our automotive bnusiness located in Botany.
Ended up with 2 children Jason and Melanie and living in Coogee.
Very active in Archery, stained glass and of late trying to master SU DOKU Puzzles.
In 1999 I took a redundancy from the RTA to work fulltime with my son in our automotive bnusiness located in Botany.
Ended up with 2 children Jason and Melanie and living in Coogee.
Very active in Archery, stained glass and of late trying to master SU DOKU Puzzles.
Steve Esler
Attached are some pics - if the system will cope. I may have to split them. The young couple is my daughter Anne-Marie and her partner, Josh. The family shot is of the rest with daughter Catherine and her 5, son-in-law Steve in front, son Matthew at back and Bernadette also in front.We had another son, Anthony but unfortunately, aged 16, he died in 2001 of a heart attack.Karen and I (both teachers) married in 1973 after meeting through church. I taught at Catherine McAuley (P/T 1970), Marist Sisters Woolwich (1971), Peakhurst HS (72-78), Airds HS (79-80), Bingara Central as Master of Secondary Studies (81-83), Liverpool BHS as HT Science (84-88), Ambarvale HS as DP (89-91), Jamison HS as Principal (92-Oct 99) and Elderslie HS (P Oct 99 - 06). Two to go after this year!Hope this is what you were after.
Steve
Steve
Br Bill Selden
Where have the last forty years gone? Who would have believed all the different experiences, places, relationships that we have all had during that time. Vatican II looked like a huge international conduit for change in the world in the sixties, but who would have thought of moon-landings, mobile phones, the internet and i-pods? And, we’ve all gone our different ways whether as Brothers or others. To be honest, after Mittagong, I did not think that I would last too long in the Order, but here I be after all those years and I have to be honest, yet again, and say that I have really enjoyed my life up to the present, in spite of (or because of?) many personal trials, disappointments etc.
I have taught subjects that I enjoyed at Pagewood, Canberra, Dundas and Hamilton; been a Principal at Dundas (not the most enjoyable job, but a good place!) and have now been a Community Leader (Superior) for over twenty years at a number of places.
I have found the most rewarding experiences being those in which giving is more obvious than receiving. Working with disadvantaged kids at Marist Education Centre Blacktown (preparing the way there for Jack Penny) and Champagnat House at Eastwood, have given me an understanding of the need for “good fathers” in our world and while not having been a biological father (as far as I know!) I hope I have assisted some needy kids in their emotional and social development.
With the decline in the number of Religious vocations and the increasing number of aged members of the Order, I find myself the Superior of the Randwick community, which is a group of twenty Brothers, the youngest being 48 and myself second youngest. While looking after elderly and infirm people can be challenging, I must say that I have been very privileged to have accompanied some very good Marist Brothers during their final years and months in this world. It is always encouraging to see that during these times the most important aspects of life are the most precious, namely family and true friends; all the possessions in the world are completely insignificant.
I have been a member of the Provincial Council for the past eight years and Vice-Provincial for the past five years – interesting and challenging times. I don’t feel discouraged by the lack of interest in Religious Life at present; times change and now we have a very strong commitment from lay men and women to Champagnat’s vision – his vision of following the Gospel is as strong as it ever was in many more people than the days when only the Brothers held that privilege. Much of the foundation for the present strong spirit of belonging to the Marist way came, and still comes, from the ex-members of the Order who became the dedicated, good Christian lay teachers in the schools. Our group has made a huge contribution in this way. Well done guys!
Bill Selden.
I have taught subjects that I enjoyed at Pagewood, Canberra, Dundas and Hamilton; been a Principal at Dundas (not the most enjoyable job, but a good place!) and have now been a Community Leader (Superior) for over twenty years at a number of places.
I have found the most rewarding experiences being those in which giving is more obvious than receiving. Working with disadvantaged kids at Marist Education Centre Blacktown (preparing the way there for Jack Penny) and Champagnat House at Eastwood, have given me an understanding of the need for “good fathers” in our world and while not having been a biological father (as far as I know!) I hope I have assisted some needy kids in their emotional and social development.
With the decline in the number of Religious vocations and the increasing number of aged members of the Order, I find myself the Superior of the Randwick community, which is a group of twenty Brothers, the youngest being 48 and myself second youngest. While looking after elderly and infirm people can be challenging, I must say that I have been very privileged to have accompanied some very good Marist Brothers during their final years and months in this world. It is always encouraging to see that during these times the most important aspects of life are the most precious, namely family and true friends; all the possessions in the world are completely insignificant.
I have been a member of the Provincial Council for the past eight years and Vice-Provincial for the past five years – interesting and challenging times. I don’t feel discouraged by the lack of interest in Religious Life at present; times change and now we have a very strong commitment from lay men and women to Champagnat’s vision – his vision of following the Gospel is as strong as it ever was in many more people than the days when only the Brothers held that privilege. Much of the foundation for the present strong spirit of belonging to the Marist way came, and still comes, from the ex-members of the Order who became the dedicated, good Christian lay teachers in the schools. Our group has made a huge contribution in this way. Well done guys!
Bill Selden.
Br Michael Jones
My present work is at the Berne Education Centre, at Lewisham. This is a non mainstream school that is under the auspices of our own Order, and named after John Berne, who was a recalicitrant boy at the time of Champagnat, who the young Brothers did not want to give any attention to. The Founder said be patient, and he paid him the ultimate compliment and became a Marist Brother himself, though only living for a short time. This is my third year here, with kids who have learning disabilities and behavioural problems.........and to cope with this we have a very high ratio of teachers and counsellors to kids.
Living these days is different from the time when we all entered. I am living in a community of 10, which is large by todays standard. Type of apostolate and men I engage within daily living have occupations such as chaplain to uni, parish worker, school principal, retirement, procure, agent for despatching "Living Faith" publications. My work has always been secondary teaching throughout.
I worked in PNG/Solomon Islands over a 10 year period, in five locations-including rural training centre; government, national secondary andcommunity schools.........all very varied and some of these places were both remote and isolated. The cirriculums in these places were interesting and challenging.
Interest in sport, both personal and at at the school level has taken in athletics,, cross country, swimming, life saving and cadets especially in the two stints I had in Canberra. A number of years there I helped with Duke of Edinburgh scheme and the Outward Bound both particularly strong in that school.
Leisure for me is manual work, growing vegies, crosswords, stamp collecting, non-fiction reading, bush walking, cycling, touring as well as running and surfing and looking up previous acquaintances in holidays, that I have know from various schools.
Interests and Events
1) In Grafton, doing the swim across and back of the Clarence River 200 times over a two year period.
2) Performing a citizens arrest outside a haberdashery store in Church St Parramatta, when two thieves were making off with the payroll from the store. Money was reclaimed, though no charges were made.
3) My first stint at Vanga Point, assisting with the birth of the housekeepers son in her house. Some years later the Genesians acted this out to absolutely rolls of laughter from the monks.
4) Having a security pass, during the Bougainville crisis, in 1989, when I was at Kieta, allowing me to go from Kieta to Arawa, to assist with tutoring of matriculation Maths, in Arawa, when I was a part time tutor with the University of PNG.
Generally my health has been robust and I am looking forward to 40 years of being a Marist in 2007.
Appointments
'72-73 Lismore
'74-75 Grafton
'76-77 St Vincent's, Westmead- teaching at Parramatta Marist
'78 Cairns
'79-82 St Dominic's Rural Training Centre, Vanga Point, Solomon Islands
'83-84 Maitland- in the last community there.
'85-86 Rosalie
'87-88 Buin, PNG
'89 Kieta PNG
'90 Second Novitiate Nemi outside Rome and East Asian Pastoral Institute
'91 Westmead & Auburn
'92-97 Canberra
'98-99 Tenaru Solomon Islands
'00 Marau, South Guadalcanal & Kogarah
'01-03 Canberra
'04-06 Parramatta/Westmead- teaching at Berne Education Centre, Lewisham
Living these days is different from the time when we all entered. I am living in a community of 10, which is large by todays standard. Type of apostolate and men I engage within daily living have occupations such as chaplain to uni, parish worker, school principal, retirement, procure, agent for despatching "Living Faith" publications. My work has always been secondary teaching throughout.
I worked in PNG/Solomon Islands over a 10 year period, in five locations-including rural training centre; government, national secondary andcommunity schools.........all very varied and some of these places were both remote and isolated. The cirriculums in these places were interesting and challenging.
Interest in sport, both personal and at at the school level has taken in athletics,, cross country, swimming, life saving and cadets especially in the two stints I had in Canberra. A number of years there I helped with Duke of Edinburgh scheme and the Outward Bound both particularly strong in that school.
Leisure for me is manual work, growing vegies, crosswords, stamp collecting, non-fiction reading, bush walking, cycling, touring as well as running and surfing and looking up previous acquaintances in holidays, that I have know from various schools.
Interests and Events
1) In Grafton, doing the swim across and back of the Clarence River 200 times over a two year period.
2) Performing a citizens arrest outside a haberdashery store in Church St Parramatta, when two thieves were making off with the payroll from the store. Money was reclaimed, though no charges were made.
3) My first stint at Vanga Point, assisting with the birth of the housekeepers son in her house. Some years later the Genesians acted this out to absolutely rolls of laughter from the monks.
4) Having a security pass, during the Bougainville crisis, in 1989, when I was at Kieta, allowing me to go from Kieta to Arawa, to assist with tutoring of matriculation Maths, in Arawa, when I was a part time tutor with the University of PNG.
Generally my health has been robust and I am looking forward to 40 years of being a Marist in 2007.
Appointments
'72-73 Lismore
'74-75 Grafton
'76-77 St Vincent's, Westmead- teaching at Parramatta Marist
'78 Cairns
'79-82 St Dominic's Rural Training Centre, Vanga Point, Solomon Islands
'83-84 Maitland- in the last community there.
'85-86 Rosalie
'87-88 Buin, PNG
'89 Kieta PNG
'90 Second Novitiate Nemi outside Rome and East Asian Pastoral Institute
'91 Westmead & Auburn
'92-97 Canberra
'98-99 Tenaru Solomon Islands
'00 Marau, South Guadalcanal & Kogarah
'01-03 Canberra
'04-06 Parramatta/Westmead- teaching at Berne Education Centre, Lewisham
Jim Hanley
A bit of a biog of Jim Hanley
After leaving the order at the end of 1971 I went Maryborough (Qld) and worked in a Christian Brothers’ school for a couple of years. I then moved to another Christian Brothers’ school in Toowoomba and taught there for a year. It was during that year that I met Pat, my future wife. I then taught at Downlands College for a number of years. Pat and I were married in the College chapel in August 1975. The following year our first daughter, Bernadette was born. When she was 18 months old we headed off to PNG to work on a mission school for a year before returning to Downlands. Our second daughter, Christine, was born in 1980. After a few more years we headed west to Longreach where for a couple of years I was principal of the Yrs 1-10 Catholic school. We then moved to Rockhampton. I taught for many years at one of the Catholic secondary schools where I became APRE. In 2000 I took up the position of APRE at St Ursula’s College (Girls day and boarding college) at Yeppoon, about half an hour’s drive from home in Rockhampton. I was there until 12th May this year when I was offered and accepted a position as RE Project Officer at DCEO in Rockhampton. Along the way I’ve collected a few degrees, but now that I have a doctorate I have taken up a more sensible past-time and am a very keen moderately successful lawn bowler.
Pat and I are very proud doting grandparents of Bernadette’s son, Lachlan James William Winter, who was born in November 2002.
The attached photo is of Lachlan and myself taken on his third birthday in November last year.
Hope all goes well.
Keep me up to date with all the news.
After leaving the order at the end of 1971 I went Maryborough (Qld) and worked in a Christian Brothers’ school for a couple of years. I then moved to another Christian Brothers’ school in Toowoomba and taught there for a year. It was during that year that I met Pat, my future wife. I then taught at Downlands College for a number of years. Pat and I were married in the College chapel in August 1975. The following year our first daughter, Bernadette was born. When she was 18 months old we headed off to PNG to work on a mission school for a year before returning to Downlands. Our second daughter, Christine, was born in 1980. After a few more years we headed west to Longreach where for a couple of years I was principal of the Yrs 1-10 Catholic school. We then moved to Rockhampton. I taught for many years at one of the Catholic secondary schools where I became APRE. In 2000 I took up the position of APRE at St Ursula’s College (Girls day and boarding college) at Yeppoon, about half an hour’s drive from home in Rockhampton. I was there until 12th May this year when I was offered and accepted a position as RE Project Officer at DCEO in Rockhampton. Along the way I’ve collected a few degrees, but now that I have a doctorate I have taken up a more sensible past-time and am a very keen moderately successful lawn bowler.
Pat and I are very proud doting grandparents of Bernadette’s son, Lachlan James William Winter, who was born in November 2002.
The attached photo is of Lachlan and myself taken on his third birthday in November last year.
Hope all goes well.
Keep me up to date with all the news.
Br Tony Glassick
Just a paragraph about me- the last 40 years...Tony Glassick writes...
After completing the scholasticate in 1968 I was appointed to Canberra. This was an exciting venture as Marist Pearce was a new school rising out of the Molonglo plain. I had 6 very happy years as a primary teacher with people such as Crispin, Mark May, Phil Slattery and John O'Brien.
My next appointment was to Lidcome (dirty Liddy) as they called it at the time. I was a little disappointed at this as this was the smog capital of Sydney. However, as it turned out these next 8 years were probably the happiest years of my life. I was with men such as Nivard Hogan, Frank Fahey, Flavian Field et al. I also made many friendships among the friendly people of the area.
Next I had 6 months in the Solomons after a year of study getting my Grad Dip of RE.
I then made a sea change and left the 'sinking ship' of the primary school and ended up at Randwick.I had 3 years interesting years at the 'wick' to say the least.
In 1988 it was off to SJC working with a fellow grouper-Tony Burrows in Year 11. Lucky I had been at Joeys myself as a boy as I knew all the tricks. I was then appointed in 1991 to PNG- Kairiru.
This lasted 12 months- unfortunately due to family reasons I had to come back to civilization.
1992 I was in Cairns and 1993 was back at "the College" SJC for another 6 wonderful years.
1999 was over to Rome and Chicago for renewal and R&R. A great escape!!
2000 I ended up in Santa Teresa as the principal of an indigenous school.
2004 saw me as Campus Minister at St Theresa's College in Noosaville- what a contrast with the center.
2005 I am back at "the College"- SJC with different hats- looking after the needs of the old men, doing some rowing and footy coaching and some tutoring of the lads at night.
So life has been kind to me, mostly, over these years. I have met many wonderful people and have managed to keep my sense of humour in tact and I think I am beginning to grow old gracefully.
After completing the scholasticate in 1968 I was appointed to Canberra. This was an exciting venture as Marist Pearce was a new school rising out of the Molonglo plain. I had 6 very happy years as a primary teacher with people such as Crispin, Mark May, Phil Slattery and John O'Brien.
My next appointment was to Lidcome (dirty Liddy) as they called it at the time. I was a little disappointed at this as this was the smog capital of Sydney. However, as it turned out these next 8 years were probably the happiest years of my life. I was with men such as Nivard Hogan, Frank Fahey, Flavian Field et al. I also made many friendships among the friendly people of the area.
Next I had 6 months in the Solomons after a year of study getting my Grad Dip of RE.
I then made a sea change and left the 'sinking ship' of the primary school and ended up at Randwick.I had 3 years interesting years at the 'wick' to say the least.
In 1988 it was off to SJC working with a fellow grouper-Tony Burrows in Year 11. Lucky I had been at Joeys myself as a boy as I knew all the tricks. I was then appointed in 1991 to PNG- Kairiru.
This lasted 12 months- unfortunately due to family reasons I had to come back to civilization.
1992 I was in Cairns and 1993 was back at "the College" SJC for another 6 wonderful years.
1999 was over to Rome and Chicago for renewal and R&R. A great escape!!
2000 I ended up in Santa Teresa as the principal of an indigenous school.
2004 saw me as Campus Minister at St Theresa's College in Noosaville- what a contrast with the center.
2005 I am back at "the College"- SJC with different hats- looking after the needs of the old men, doing some rowing and footy coaching and some tutoring of the lads at night.
So life has been kind to me, mostly, over these years. I have met many wonderful people and have managed to keep my sense of humour in tact and I think I am beginning to grow old gracefully.
Br Andrew Monaghan
Since July in ’05 I have been at Mittagong as the Guest Master of The Hermitage, what used to be the Juniorate and the Novitiate combined. Previous to that, I was at Marist Canberra with two RE classes and the balance of the teaching load made up of supervision of Yrs 11 & 12 Study periods. I gained little satisfaction and much angst from a few classes of 64 unco-operative and belligerent seniors and decided that Mittagong was a saner alternative.
Before that I had had 25 years in Marist boarding schools, finishing up at Ashgrove in Brisbane as the Dean of Boarding. I enjoyed the responsibility, ministry and the part that I played in the students’ life.
I completed my B.Sc. at Macquarie in ’88, 20 years after starting it from Dundas. While overseas in ’94 involved in our renewal course, I completed a Masters in Pastoral Studies at Loyola in Chicago.
While thinning on top and widening in the middle, I still enjoy skiing, though the daily cost of a lift ticket is straining the vow of poverty somewhat.
Before that I had had 25 years in Marist boarding schools, finishing up at Ashgrove in Brisbane as the Dean of Boarding. I enjoyed the responsibility, ministry and the part that I played in the students’ life.
I completed my B.Sc. at Macquarie in ’88, 20 years after starting it from Dundas. While overseas in ’94 involved in our renewal course, I completed a Masters in Pastoral Studies at Loyola in Chicago.
While thinning on top and widening in the middle, I still enjoy skiing, though the daily cost of a lift ticket is straining the vow of poverty somewhat.
Br Laurie McCann
On leaving Mittagong, I spent the "six months" at Marist Brothers' College Ayr, where it was good to be on the staff of my old school and to spend time with my family, who I'd seen only at Christmas and 2nd July, since leaving home three years previously. Later (1992-1995) I returned to the same school, where I was the penultimate Marist principal, before handing over to the capable hands of a lay principal in 2001. Ah yes, the monks are fewer and older these days. Even Mick Prest's alma mater no longer has a Marist at the helm (a good move, and Ross Tarlington is a fine Marist leader.) After uni at Macquarie (1969-1972), a great experience shared with many of the novices of 67-68, I taught at six different schools over the following fifteen years: Cairns, Enoggera, Mitchelton, Joeys, Gladstone and Lismore. Then followed an exhilarating year (1988) on the Marist Retreat Team, followed by three years as "Master of Scholastics" at Gladesville. Unlike Kieran who had sixty or more of us young men in his care, I had only five. Even so, it was a challenge I'm not keen to repeat! After my second stint at Ayr, I had a wonderful year overseas in 1996, doing the second novitiate at Manziana (Rome), followed by six months in Chicago where I studied at Loyola University. From 1997 to 2003, I worked in Papua New Guinea, mostly in Bougainville (Tarlena High School, then Mabiri High School), where I assisted in trying to restore education to the war-torn island. Interesting times, to say the least, but it was a rewarding period of my life. Returning to Australia in 2004, I took up a teaching position at St Francis Xavier College Hamilton, where I am still.
It has been an interesting life, and I'm still happy in the service. I look back on our formative days at Mittagong with many great memories and I'm looking forward to re-connecting with old friends at the reunion in July.
It has been an interesting life, and I'm still happy in the service. I look back on our formative days at Mittagong with many great memories and I'm looking forward to re-connecting with old friends at the reunion in July.
Tony Britton
From the Schol. I had four great years at Cairns (72-5) and then two more at Maitland (76-7).
After I left at the end of '77 I worked at Bankstown for 18 years at Nazareth, a senior girls' college. I kept in contact with Mick Prest who worked next door at Benilde (the senior boys' school). I really enjoyed my long time there and left at the end of 95 when the CEO decided the college would close at the end of 99. I have since been Head of History at Moriah College at Queens Park - an orthodox Jewish school, so it was (and at times still is) a real culture shock and a very steep learning curve. However, it is handy to home (Coogee) and I suppose now I have become almost part of the furniture.
I met my wife Sue through playing tennis at Coogee in the 80s. We married in 1990 and have 2 children - Stephen (12.5 going on 9) and Jacinta (11 going on 25). They have both been in OC classes at Woollahra PS. Stephen is now in Year 7 at Rose Bay Secondary College, an amalgamation of 2 high schools in the area. He enjoys secondary school much more than primary. Most of my Saturdays are taken up with the kids' cricket, soccer and hockey. They also have tennis lessons with Sue's father (who is the Australian singles champion in the 80s bracket - he turns 80 in November and has played vets for NSW and Australia for many years since his retirement). I have been manager and occasional coach of the cricket and soccer teams.
I am still enjoying teaching although I'd have to say I'm happier and do my best work with the older students (10-12). I have become involved with the HSC subject Society & Culture and have been on its HSC exam committee for the past 2 years. I have also been treasurer of its association for over 5 years. However, history remains my first love.
I have basically no involvement with the Church beyond very occasional attendance. I suppose I drifted away over time and now don't see a lot to return to. Parish Catholicism does not inspire me; it cannot offer what the community life and liturgies used to. My mother makes up for all the family as at the age of 82 she still attends mass at least 3-4 times weekly. She is in good health apart from a weakening knee. Dad died of cancer several years ago. My brother is a grandfather before me through his step-daughter!
Regards,
Tony
After I left at the end of '77 I worked at Bankstown for 18 years at Nazareth, a senior girls' college. I kept in contact with Mick Prest who worked next door at Benilde (the senior boys' school). I really enjoyed my long time there and left at the end of 95 when the CEO decided the college would close at the end of 99. I have since been Head of History at Moriah College at Queens Park - an orthodox Jewish school, so it was (and at times still is) a real culture shock and a very steep learning curve. However, it is handy to home (Coogee) and I suppose now I have become almost part of the furniture.
I met my wife Sue through playing tennis at Coogee in the 80s. We married in 1990 and have 2 children - Stephen (12.5 going on 9) and Jacinta (11 going on 25). They have both been in OC classes at Woollahra PS. Stephen is now in Year 7 at Rose Bay Secondary College, an amalgamation of 2 high schools in the area. He enjoys secondary school much more than primary. Most of my Saturdays are taken up with the kids' cricket, soccer and hockey. They also have tennis lessons with Sue's father (who is the Australian singles champion in the 80s bracket - he turns 80 in November and has played vets for NSW and Australia for many years since his retirement). I have been manager and occasional coach of the cricket and soccer teams.
I am still enjoying teaching although I'd have to say I'm happier and do my best work with the older students (10-12). I have become involved with the HSC subject Society & Culture and have been on its HSC exam committee for the past 2 years. I have also been treasurer of its association for over 5 years. However, history remains my first love.
I have basically no involvement with the Church beyond very occasional attendance. I suppose I drifted away over time and now don't see a lot to return to. Parish Catholicism does not inspire me; it cannot offer what the community life and liturgies used to. My mother makes up for all the family as at the age of 82 she still attends mass at least 3-4 times weekly. She is in good health apart from a weakening knee. Dad died of cancer several years ago. My brother is a grandfather before me through his step-daughter!
Regards,
Tony
Br Peter Stewart
Pete’s Par or Three
In 1969 after leaving the Schol I went to my old School at Daceyville where I taught Year 5 for 3 years and ran the tuckshop. I was also involved in the Parish with the choir both as member and eventually leader. From there I went to Canberra from 1972 – 1976, teaching Year 4, running the Tuckshop for 3 years and also became involved in the Canberra Philharmonic Society singing in the chorus mainly but also had a couple of minor roles. 1977 saw me move to Parramatta where again I taught year 5 and ran the Tuckshop.
In 1979 I was given the opportunity by Kieran to upgrade from Victorian Registration to 3 yr trained Dip Teaching at CCE, being the first Primary Brother to return to full time study. 1980 saw me at St Carthage’s Lismore and to my surprise was appointed Deputy and REC in the K-6 school. I took up playing golf on a regular basis while there, as well as being involved in the liturgical life of the Cathedral. In 1982 at Kieran’s request I went to New Zealand on exchange for two years and was there during the time when the Catholic Schools became ‘Integrated” which meant that religious as well as lay teachers were paid full salaries. Schools had to be brought up to an acceptable standard of facilities and were then maintained by the state as well as implications for the appointment of Brothers to schools. They now had to apply for positions like anyone else and could not just be appointed to a school by the Provincial. In my second year there I was appointed Deputy. I also continued to play golf on a regular basis. While there I had the opportunity to see a lot of New Zealand.
1984 I returned to Australia and to Marcellin Junior Coogee where I found myself teaching Year 6, Deputy to Cleophas [Anthony Atkinson – my year 6 teacher at Daceyville], REC and eventually external sports master. I was very active in the Parish as a member of the Liturgy Team, and Parish Council. In 1987 to my surprise I was appointed as Principal at Parramatta Marist Junior by Jack Alman. In 1992 I did the Second Nov and then spent the academic year in Ireland at the National Institute for Pastoral Liturgy in Carlow graduating in 1993 with a Diploma in Sacred Liturgy. While in Ireland I became very interested in researching my mother’s family history in England. Upon my return in June 1993 I was appointed to Canberra, in the role of Primary Principal. Chris Wade was the overall Headmaster.
I continued my research our family history and eventually wrote a book on my convict ancestors as they come down through the Jurd family – yes Dr Jurd’s Jungle Juice was concocted by one of the great characters of our family. In July 1998 I resigned from Canberra and in October moved to Ashgrove in basically a non-teaching role although I did some relief teaching. I was involved in the RE centre, preparing the boarder’s liturgy each weekend, school liturgies etc, and also taking Brothers and students to medical and dental appointments. I was interested in becoming a Liturgy Co-ordinator in a parish. This was not to eventuate but a need for someone to act as carer/driver for our Senior Brothers at Campbelltown became evident and so I chose to take that on. In my four years here I have had the privilege of caring for Fergus, our beloved Novice Master, Stephen, Kenan, Canice, Frere Owen, & Clarence, to name a few. I can best describe my role at Campbelltown as “Chauffeur and go-fer”, and also community bursar. I am continuing with my family research on a regular basis, correcting and updating my book in preparation for 2012 when it will be re-released to mark the 200th wedding anniversary of Daniel & Elizabeth Jurd née Douglas.
In 1969 after leaving the Schol I went to my old School at Daceyville where I taught Year 5 for 3 years and ran the tuckshop. I was also involved in the Parish with the choir both as member and eventually leader. From there I went to Canberra from 1972 – 1976, teaching Year 4, running the Tuckshop for 3 years and also became involved in the Canberra Philharmonic Society singing in the chorus mainly but also had a couple of minor roles. 1977 saw me move to Parramatta where again I taught year 5 and ran the Tuckshop.
In 1979 I was given the opportunity by Kieran to upgrade from Victorian Registration to 3 yr trained Dip Teaching at CCE, being the first Primary Brother to return to full time study. 1980 saw me at St Carthage’s Lismore and to my surprise was appointed Deputy and REC in the K-6 school. I took up playing golf on a regular basis while there, as well as being involved in the liturgical life of the Cathedral. In 1982 at Kieran’s request I went to New Zealand on exchange for two years and was there during the time when the Catholic Schools became ‘Integrated” which meant that religious as well as lay teachers were paid full salaries. Schools had to be brought up to an acceptable standard of facilities and were then maintained by the state as well as implications for the appointment of Brothers to schools. They now had to apply for positions like anyone else and could not just be appointed to a school by the Provincial. In my second year there I was appointed Deputy. I also continued to play golf on a regular basis. While there I had the opportunity to see a lot of New Zealand.
1984 I returned to Australia and to Marcellin Junior Coogee where I found myself teaching Year 6, Deputy to Cleophas [Anthony Atkinson – my year 6 teacher at Daceyville], REC and eventually external sports master. I was very active in the Parish as a member of the Liturgy Team, and Parish Council. In 1987 to my surprise I was appointed as Principal at Parramatta Marist Junior by Jack Alman. In 1992 I did the Second Nov and then spent the academic year in Ireland at the National Institute for Pastoral Liturgy in Carlow graduating in 1993 with a Diploma in Sacred Liturgy. While in Ireland I became very interested in researching my mother’s family history in England. Upon my return in June 1993 I was appointed to Canberra, in the role of Primary Principal. Chris Wade was the overall Headmaster.
I continued my research our family history and eventually wrote a book on my convict ancestors as they come down through the Jurd family – yes Dr Jurd’s Jungle Juice was concocted by one of the great characters of our family. In July 1998 I resigned from Canberra and in October moved to Ashgrove in basically a non-teaching role although I did some relief teaching. I was involved in the RE centre, preparing the boarder’s liturgy each weekend, school liturgies etc, and also taking Brothers and students to medical and dental appointments. I was interested in becoming a Liturgy Co-ordinator in a parish. This was not to eventuate but a need for someone to act as carer/driver for our Senior Brothers at Campbelltown became evident and so I chose to take that on. In my four years here I have had the privilege of caring for Fergus, our beloved Novice Master, Stephen, Kenan, Canice, Frere Owen, & Clarence, to name a few. I can best describe my role at Campbelltown as “Chauffeur and go-fer”, and also community bursar. I am continuing with my family research on a regular basis, correcting and updating my book in preparation for 2012 when it will be re-released to mark the 200th wedding anniversary of Daniel & Elizabeth Jurd née Douglas.
Tony Wagner
Great to hear from you after such a long time. Meeting Peter (Stewart) a couple of nights ago and now your email, so many memories come flooding back.I am still living in Leumeah (33 years now) and Beth and I are still surrounded by our ever growing family. We still have four children at home, four married and Joanne our youngest (17 years old) is very disabled and resides in a group home.We have five grandchildren and two more on the way.
I am still the HSIE Head teacher at Campbelltown Performing Arts High School and am enjoying my teaching. I still manage a game of squash every week and occasionally manage to win a game against the younger generation.
I am still the HSIE Head teacher at Campbelltown Performing Arts High School and am enjoying my teaching. I still manage a game of squash every week and occasionally manage to win a game against the younger generation.
Br. Frank Hough
Dear Mick and All
Greetings from Marikina Heights and what is called Mapac (Marist Asian Pacific Centre), a post-novitiate centre for formation of the student Brothers from those regions. I have been here for 5 years in formation and have this year to complete. I was happy to talk with Mick Prest recently on a visit to Sydney, mainly to visit Mum who is slowing down considerably and presently is in hospital under observation, mainly for mobility. She is 85 years old and was still living in the family house at Blakehurst. Some of you would know that Dad died in 1998 at the age of 80.
Since our great years at Dundas and Macquarie University, (pioneers -weren't we?), I was teaching for some years at Maitland in the good company of Tony Britton; Andrew was down the track at Hamilton. Then came a chance to study in Dundalk, Ireland, in the field of Religious Education and work (wander) around the Province, assisting in the development of RE teachers and programs. After a couple of years back at my home school, Kogarah, I traveled to Rome to attend to some formation studies, integrated with psychology. (Some may remember that I was always interested in psychology!) That led to being a formator in Madang, PNG, in 1987 and the next 8 years in the regional novitiate at Lomeri in Fiji. The latter a beautiful location amongst wonderful people. It was time to move on, this time to assist at a Formators' program in Lyons, France, an hour's drive from l'Hermitage, that gave so much to our Marist heritage. On the completion of the course, it was appropriate to return to Australia for a couple of years, to catch up with family and the Brothers of the Province. I was interested in our school at Berne, Lewisham, for 'multiple drop-outs' and was able to assist as part-time support teacher, guide and assessing psychologist. 2001 was a real experience in culture shock as I not only came to Manila, Philippines but was asked to get my driving licence on the day after arrival! By now I am a bit used to the traffic and am occupied well enough with teaching, accompaniment and organizing the weekly outreach program. On the staff presently are Jeff Crowe as rector and Ralph Arnell. Must have been that Dundas influence!
I naturally wonder what others in our group are doing and am very appreciative for the friendships along the way. Also there is great appreciation for our own formators, such as Fergus and Kieran. All the best and enjoy the gathering. My apologies but the academic year won't allow my involvement.
Kindly, Frank Hough
Greetings from Marikina Heights and what is called Mapac (Marist Asian Pacific Centre), a post-novitiate centre for formation of the student Brothers from those regions. I have been here for 5 years in formation and have this year to complete. I was happy to talk with Mick Prest recently on a visit to Sydney, mainly to visit Mum who is slowing down considerably and presently is in hospital under observation, mainly for mobility. She is 85 years old and was still living in the family house at Blakehurst. Some of you would know that Dad died in 1998 at the age of 80.
Since our great years at Dundas and Macquarie University, (pioneers -weren't we?), I was teaching for some years at Maitland in the good company of Tony Britton; Andrew was down the track at Hamilton. Then came a chance to study in Dundalk, Ireland, in the field of Religious Education and work (wander) around the Province, assisting in the development of RE teachers and programs. After a couple of years back at my home school, Kogarah, I traveled to Rome to attend to some formation studies, integrated with psychology. (Some may remember that I was always interested in psychology!) That led to being a formator in Madang, PNG, in 1987 and the next 8 years in the regional novitiate at Lomeri in Fiji. The latter a beautiful location amongst wonderful people. It was time to move on, this time to assist at a Formators' program in Lyons, France, an hour's drive from l'Hermitage, that gave so much to our Marist heritage. On the completion of the course, it was appropriate to return to Australia for a couple of years, to catch up with family and the Brothers of the Province. I was interested in our school at Berne, Lewisham, for 'multiple drop-outs' and was able to assist as part-time support teacher, guide and assessing psychologist. 2001 was a real experience in culture shock as I not only came to Manila, Philippines but was asked to get my driving licence on the day after arrival! By now I am a bit used to the traffic and am occupied well enough with teaching, accompaniment and organizing the weekly outreach program. On the staff presently are Jeff Crowe as rector and Ralph Arnell. Must have been that Dundas influence!
I naturally wonder what others in our group are doing and am very appreciative for the friendships along the way. Also there is great appreciation for our own formators, such as Fergus and Kieran. All the best and enjoy the gathering. My apologies but the academic year won't allow my involvement.
Kindly, Frank Hough
Thursday, August 26, 2004
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