From David Mezinec, Tenison Woods College Principal
On Saturday 27 October, I was delighted to be involved in a celebration of Catholic school communities in Mount Gambier; communities which have let their light shine for 138 years.
The evening was all about valuing that story of endeavour - from the pioneering efforts of Father Julian Tenison Woods and Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, to the Sisters of Mercy and Marist Brothers, who chose the path less travelled and made all the difference to the families of the South East. As such we valued the story of St Joseph’s Convent, St Mary’s School, Mater Christi College, Marist Brothers Agricultural College, St Paul’s School, Tenison College and now Tenison Woods College. The evening celebrated the contributions of all students, parents, staff and friends of the College who have helped us evolve to become the community we are today.
Shining Lights
The Shining Light Awards aim to recognise significant contributions made by former students, families or staff to our local and global community in order to inspire current and future students about the essence of our community and their call to service.
So, on the night, in the capable hands of the talented David Kenseley, local identity and former student of Tenison College, we continued by celebrating:
Alan Balshaw
Sally Duigan
Jenna McCormick
Jeanette Elliott
Anthony Casadio
We heard about their life and contributions, their inspirations and motivations, as people who have let their light shine. Just like the Shining Light mementos they received as an acknowledgement, they have stood out as beacons for those around them.
Thanks
I feel the reunion was a wonderful celebration of individual endeavour, but also of the family nature of our community and the way this community over many years has inspired individuals to achieve and serve their community. The recurring theme was the significant impact of teachers who inspired our young to dream, work hard and be the person they are called to be.
I thank members of our community for attending this significant evening in the story of our community. I particularly thank the Public Relations and Events Team: Jess Herring, Jason Scheidl, Grace Forgan, and Bhavani Bailey-Walters. Similarly I thank the Friends of Tenison Woods College Committee: Domenica Dunn, Michelle Coote, Francesca Dickson, Trudi Dempsey, Tory Brett, Joanne Turley, Patricia Kitney, Liza Couzens, Alex Nicholson and Neal Turley for their efforts in preparing for the Reunion and the College tour on the following Sunday. Special thanks to Jen McCourt and our Hospitality students: Danielle Thomas, Daniela Ortiz Kaiser, Nadia Munguakwokwa, Amelia Taylor and Bianca Doody, whose service during the evening was exemplary. Likewise, our talented students Zoe Aberle and Aimee Black provided musical entertainment of the highest quality. Finally, it was a delight to have the reunion at the Commodore on the Park and we thank Tom Kosh and his team for their characteristic hospitality, support and generosity.
Please enjoy the videos below, including a fun re-cap video from the night, along with the very special videos highlighting this year's five award recipients.
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