In front of an audience of over 40 guests, Dr Tobin reflected on the journey that the College has taken since 2012, recognising significant achievements made specifically within the governance and culture of the College.

During her speech she referenced the late John Phillips, a past Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank and previous Chair of College Council.

“Since the death of John Phillips, much has changed in the cultural context in which residential University colleges exist. But, in the processes of reform and renewal he set in motion here at St John’s, processes which have been adopted and developed not only here but also in other colleges, in particular those two key initiatives I mentioned at the outset, John seems to have had extraordinary foresight. May this college continue to live up to his expectations!” said Dr Tobin.

The 2019 House Executive comprises of House Presidents, Lucy Blanzan and James Hansen, with Douglas Gibson elected to the position of Secretary and James Flipo to the role of Treasurer. The House Executive work collaboratively with members of the St John’s staff including the Rector, Vice-Rector, Dean and Dean of Students as representatives of the student body.

The House Committee is involved in organising the College cultural, sporting and social activities available to the students as well as any intercollege events. The Committee includes Rawson and Rosebowl Secretaries, Social Secretary, Palladian Secretary and Charity Secretary.

Being part of the St John’s College House Committee provides valuable leadership opportunities to members of this student team.

The Benning Prize was established in memory of Herbert Francis Benning, a Fellow and first Chairman of College Council (1969-1980). It is awarded annually to a student who has been in residence for at least five semesters, has shown consistent academic progress and made significant contribution to College life, particuarly in relation to leadership.

“The 2018 awardees have consistently achieved academic distinction while being involved in the sporting, cultural, spiritual and recreational life of the College. Not afraid to stand up for those who feel marginalised or call out behaviour that goes against the College’s values, they are individuals who lead by example, have deep affection for the College and seek to lead a life of service,” said Chair of Council, Dr Bernadette Tobin, during the ceremony.

Throughout 2018 Eleanor and Lachlan have served as members of the 2018 House Committee and made many significant contributions to the College. We congratulate them.

Pancakes were top of the breakfast menu on Friday 19th October as the College joined forces with Rural Aid to support Australian farmers struggling in the drought with a special fundraiser.

Members of the College Community, including students, staff, and external suppliers, enjoyed a Pancake Breakfast which raised over $2,660 for Rural Aid’s Buy a Bale initiative, which supplies farmers across Australia with feed for stock.

General Manager of Rural Aid, Mr Wayne Thomson, was expected to join everyone for the Pancake Breakfast but unfortunately was delayed by flights and thanked everyone at lunch instead.

“On behalf of Rural Aid and farmers across Australia, I would like to thank the community of St John’s College for their initiative and generosity in supporting our Buy a Bale campaign,” said Mr Thomson.

“Today’s breakfast is yet another demonstration of the commitment of so many communities across Australia to help our farmers and rural communities in their time of need.”

“Thank you to St John’s College for the strong message of support that they have shown farmers this morning. The jersey that’s been kindly donated will become a prize in the Rural Aid Christmas Raffle,” said Mr Thomson.

The College’s Equality Liaison Group,comprising of staff and students, has worked with the provider of an anti-bullying app to tailor a solution for the College, which has now been launched.

The Anonymous Alerts App enables confidential reporting to the College’s Student Life Team of any matter relating to bullying, discrimination, sexual harassment, vilification or other behaviour or actions.

The App is another tool supporting and strengthening the College’s zero tolerance policy on any behaviour that threatens student safety and/or wellbeing.

Featuring as a Forward in Hong Kong’s line-up, Ellie began her campaign opening game against Japan.

“The Asian Games is the second largest multi-sport competition after the Olympics. I am very excited to compete and am looking forward to living in the athletes’ village with many other elite athletes. It’s going to be life-changing and wonderful”, said Ellie.

Currently studying a Bachelor of Veterinary Science at the University of Sydney and First Year at St John’s, Ellie has been busy juggling her studies and hockey playing commitments. “At first, it was really hard to fit in both hockey and studying. Time management has been the real key to being able to fit it all in. Also, the support I have received from both my high school, the Uni and the College have allowed me to balance both commitments.”