“A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows.”   
St Francis of Assisi

Australia got a massive sunbeam when The Maltildas won the penalty shoot-out against France on Saturday 12 Aug. Everyone in my house was shouting with joy at the TV when it happened, and we were not alone! The whole nation seemed to be united in the positivity of the moment. It is wonderful to see unconditionally happy shared human connection, even amongst strangers when a moment like that comes along. We all have that capacity in us. Sometimes it just takes a spark.

The first time I experienced that sense of communal belonging and unconditional acceptance was not at a football match, but on a school bus on the road to Biloela for the Chapel Choir Tour. A slightly more chilled vibe, I grant you - but still that feeling of common purpose, a trusted team of people who have got your back and will do right by you. Plus, there was the excitement of what adventures lie ahead. (I did get billeted to a house where the owner’s dog could sing for its supper. That was kind of interesting.)

I’m sure you must have had your own moments like that while you were at school. It happens. It is good to remember those bright moments and channel that energy.

St Peters Old Scholars have been channelling energy like never before. Amazing success in the pool last month(again!). Who needs the Matildas when you’ve got St Peters Western superstars smashing records at the World Championships in Fukuoka! Also in July, SPOSA was really proud of the efforts of Tom Feldmann (2021) competing at the World Junior Triathlon championships in Hamburg. Another Old Scholar from 2021, Nick Hargreaves came back to entertain us in June with his thespian skills for Music Tale 2023. This event coincided nicely with the SPOSA Reunion Weekend. It was wonderful to see milestone generation Old Scholars returning to see the school in action, including concerts, sports events, Songs of Praise, reunion lunch and our first AGM in the new Centre for Learning and Innovation. Our thanks to the SPOSA Committee and volunteers for all the organising that make those events successful. Also, in the Dron Auditorium on 14 July for the Echoes of Elegance Concert, we were wowed by the talents of Old Scholars now doing well at the Queensland Conservatorium - Yuro Lee (2021), Angelina Kim (2020) and Zoe Catchpoole (2020). We had great vibes happening at the 2023 SPOSA Tennis Tournament, the SPOSA/P&F Trivia Night on 29 July, and were delighted to provide the prizes to the very worthy finalists of the St Peters You’ve Got Talent. On a final note of worthiness, it was wonderful to see our Patron and super-supportive Old Scholar, Margaret Curnow, be recognised with an Order of Australia at the King’s Birthday honours in June. Well-deserved Margaret! Just to name a few sunny moments in recent weeks.

Whilst we aren’t all winning the Logies, we can celebrate the efforts of those who are doing well. We are all in our own ways capable of providing moments of magic. We are all Saints playing our part in the universe, partaking in the fellowship of humanity. The kind word, a moment shared or even a simple smile is enough for us to be the Channel of Peace that we used to sing about in Chapel.
Amen to that.

Kind regards,
Llewellyn Jones (1983)
President of St Peters Old Scholars Association

As the year rushes forward, it's undeniable that time flies when you're having fun. And, what a whirlwind it's been here at SPOSA! We've been riding the tide of activity, organising events that bridge the past and the present, and celebrating the incredible tapestry of lives that have graced the College.

From the wonderful celebrations at our annual Reunion Weekend to cheering on the Old Scholars as they battle it out in sporting matches such as tennis, basketball, and football - the College has been pulsating with the energy of camaraderie and friendly competition. The trivia night brought laughter and friendly rivalries, reminding us all of the bonds forged within these walls.

But it's not just about the events; it's about the people. The faces that once walked the College grounds, the stories that unfolded in the classrooms, and the dreams that were nurtured under the roof. We've witnessed Old Scholars rekindle friendships, and we've seen the baton of achievement passed on to newer generations. Speaking of achievements, we're so proud at SPOSA as we recount the diverse accomplishments of our esteemed Old Scholars.

I hope you enjoy the insights below in this newsletter into the lives of the many generations of men and women who have passed through the gates of the College.

Best regards,
Amanda Osborne
Alumni & Archives Officer

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Reunion Weekend 2023! An incredible weekend was had by all which was held for the first-time at the end of Term 2 to allow Old Scholars to attend College events including the 1st XI football, 1st XV Rugby and a music strings concert. As always, there were the St Peters stalwarts and those who haven’t walked through the gates since their last day of school. The campus was buzzing as they reconnected with their peers, reminisced, and enjoyed SPOSA's planned activities.

On Friday evening, the SPOSA Café, located in our recently opened Centre for Learning and Innovation (formerly Luther House), served as the perfect kick-off venue for our St Peters' traditional Reunion Weekend. The festivities began with a delightful array of drinks and canapés, leading up to a captivating performance by St Peters Strings. Their enchanting rendition, titled "The Stroke of Midnight," drew inspiration from the Addams Family and transported the audience into a mesmerizing fairytale realm.

On Saturday for the first time, our Old Scholars gathered in the PAC Theatrette for a Songs of Praise, with Pastor Tim Jarick. Voices echoed throughout as everyone sang along to their favourite hymns. Afterward, more than 70 Old Scholars embarked on a nostalgic tour of the College, with a special focus on showcasing the new the state-of-the-art Centre for Learning and Innovation (CLI). The tour finished in the amphitheatre, where an overwhelming sense of pride and camaraderie filled the air as the group sang the old St Peters war-cry in unison.
 
Everyone then gathered for a long lunch, where over 90 Old Scholars from various peer years indulged in food prepared by our talented chef and kitchen staff. The Golden (1973), Diamond (1963) and Platinum (1953) Peer Years were honoured during this gathering, receiving badges and certificates presented by our Head of College, Tim Kotzur, and SPOSA President, Llewellyn Jones.
 
Sunday began with a moving service, followed by a group photo on the stairs of the CLI. The weekend ended with a well-attended Annual General Meeting (AGM), where ideas were shared, and plans were made for the future.
 
What a marathon, but most importantly, Old Scholars reconnected with each other in this special place and appreciated their earlier lives in context. Over $1000.00 was raised for Helping Hands, for College community members in need. The culture of St Peters lives on.
 
Thank you to Tim Kotzur, the dedicated SPOSA committee members, Stuart Delaney (Director of Boarding) and the boarding students, whose efforts made this Reunion Weekend a resounding success. Special thanks to our Peer Year co-ordinator for 1973 and 1963, Gwendoline Lewerissa and Peter Swan respectively for their invaluable support and contributions.

SPOSA is already looking forward to welcoming each and every one one of you back next year. Stay tuned for more exciting updates, and until then, cherish the memories you’ve made, and we look forward to seeing you all again!

Over the past few months, several reunions have taken place. Witnessing the revival of friendships and the creation of new memories amongst our Old Scholars as they come together to commemorate their time as 'A Saint Life' has been truly heartwarming. Among peer year groups reconnecting were graduates from the Class of 1993 and 1988. A special note of thanks goes out to the coordinators of these events, Anita Synnott and Annissa Hansen from the Class of 1993, and Jordan Miller and Pia Jeffries from the Class of 1988.

Connecting with our Old Scholars is an important part of engaging with our community. During the month of July, whilst in Lae, and Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, the Director of Community Engagement, Ross Thomson, and Director of Boarding, Stuart Delaney, spoke to prospective families about a St Peters Boarding education and hosted Old Scholars functions. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces at these functions. 

The Choral Gala Concert in the Dron Auditorium on Saturday 7 October (7:00pm) will be a celebration of choral music at St Peters.

As part of this concert, all St Peters Chorale alumni are warmly invited to join with Chorale 2023 to create a massed choir performance of Gabriel Faure’s Requiem – a classic of St Peters Chorale repertoire as well as one of the most well-known choral pieces in the world today.

There will be two rehearsals for this massed choir performance prior to the concert:
Choral Rehearsal - 
Monday 2 October (King’s Birthday Public Holiday) 1:00pm – 5:00pm

Rehearsal with Orchestra –
Friday 6 October 6:00pm – 9:00pm.

Whilst ideally, alumni will be able to attend both rehearsals, availability to join us for at least one is necessary to be part of the performance.

To express your interest in being involved and to receive further information, please CLICK HERE.

We look forward to catching up and singing again with many past members of Chorale. Please pass this invitation on to all who may be interested.

Please come and join us for a very special and historic night of choral music at St Peters.

Christine Taylor
Head of Choirs

We look forward to seeing our Old Scholars at the following events:

Class of 2013 Reunion                                     16 September    
Class of 2003 Reunion                                      7 October
Committee Meeting                                         9 October
One Year Graduation for 2022 Old Scholars      14 October
Class of 1983 Reunion                                     14 October
Committee Meeting and Christmas Party         13 November
Carols Under the Stars                                    26 November

There are some exciting reunions coming up for Old Scholars to re-connect and reminisce, so if you are from the Class of 2022, 2013, 2003 or 1983 these details are for you.

Class of 2022: Come back we miss you! One-Year Reunion
Date:     Saturday 14 October
Time:     6:30pm – 8:30pm
Venue:   SPOSA Café in the Centre for Learning and Innovation 
Cost:      Canapes and drinks (Free of charge)
Contact: Amanda Osborne at sposa@stpeters.qld.edu.au  or sign up via; https://bit.ly/3snGdBo

Class of 2013: 10-Year Reunion
Date: Saturday 16 September Time: 5:00pm – 9:00pm
Venue: SPOSA café in the Centre for Learning and Innovation building
Cost: $30 (includes light canapes). 
Co-ordinator: Georgie Venz at ggvenz@gmail.com or sign up using the Eventbrite link https://bit.ly/3KGudBm or register your interest by joining ‘Saints Seniors 2013’ on Facebook.

Class of 2003: 20-Year Reunion
Date:     Saturday 7 October
Time:     5:00pm – 9:00pm
Venue:   SPOSA café in the Centre for Learning and Innovation building
Cost:      $55 (includes canapes and a welcome drink on arrival)
Co-ordinator:     Kayleen Rausseo at kayleen.rausseo@gmail.com or sign up using the Eventbrite link on https://bit.ly/3R13cfO or register your interest by joining ‘SPLC Class of 2003' on Facebook.

Class of 1983: 40-Year Reunion
Date:     Saturday 14 October
Time:     From 6.30pm
Venue:  Chill Lounge, Story Bridge Hotel, Kangaroo Point
Cost:      No payment required – purchase own drinks and food.
Co-ordinator: Anna Staley (nee Peterson) on a.staley@stpeters.qld.edu.au for more information or to register your interest.

SAVE THE DATE: 8 JUNE 2024

Class of 1969 - 55-year reunion

Your co-ordinators (pictured) are ready and waiting to sign up the class of 1969 to celebrate our 55th reunion! Get ready for a weekend of reunion activities at the College with our main event being:
Date:       Saturday 8 June 2024
Time:      12 noon onwards
Venue:     Lunch at Café 45 and continue on at the SPOSA Café from 3pm onwards.

Contacts:  Julie Ross (0403 591 582), Elinor Radke (0497 877 419),
                Ivan Schindler (0407 370 041), Dyanne Jackson (0417 661 246), 
                Louise Friedman (0413 288 205), David Jones (0412 188 100) for further details. 

SPOSA is extremely proud of Old Scholar Margaret Curnow (1960) for receiving the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) during the King’s Birthday 2023 Honours List. Her dedication to special education and unwavering commitment to the community have earned her this well-deserved honour.

Margaret’s journey began in Papua New Guinea, where she was born before her family returned to Australia. Her St Peters education started in 1957, shaping the path to her remarkable achievements.

Margaret’s determination has been a guiding light throughout her career. In 1962, she embarked on her teaching career at Nundah Infants State School. Unfortunately, she was dismissed upon marrying her beloved late husband, Bill Curnow AM. This event, a product of the prevailing societal expectations for woman at the time, only fuelled Margaret’s passion to challenge conventions and make a lasting impact. 

For four decades, Margaret has dedicated her life to educating Queensland children with complex needs and disabilities and she has positively transformed the lives of countless young minds. 

Additionally, Margaret has been a driving force within the St Peters Old Scholars Association. From serving as President to her current role as Patron, she has poured her heart and soul into nurturing the connection between Old Scholars.
SPOSA extends our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to this incredible woman who continues to inspire with her life of service. 

On August 25, Old Scholar Monica Salter (1975) was honoured with the title of Dame by Buckingham Palace, making her Papua New Guinea's seventh woman to receive this esteemed recognition.

Dame Monica is celebrated as a business leader, humanitarian, and advocate for women's rights. She dedicated her award to the often overlooked but voiceless women of Papua New Guinea who have made significant contributions to their communities and country.

Dame Monica's life has been characterized by her unwavering commitment to advancing women's causes in PNG, as well as her remarkable achievements in the business world, and her national representation in sports. 

Her educational journey began in Kavieng and Rabaul before attending St Peters in 1970, where she excelled as both a leader and athlete. Throughout her time at the College, she represented Queensland, earned the title of State girls champion in high jump, captained 'A' Grade netball and softball teams, served as House Captain, School Prefect, and consecutively won the Sports Woman of the Year award until her graduation.

After graduating in 1975, she continued her sporting achievements and later became a professional squash player, representing PNG in international tournaments. During this period, she also worked with Air Niugini for 11 years and currently holds a position as board member. 

In 1985, she established her own business, Monian Limited, and has since been actively engaged in various community service roles, directorships and memberships of numerous business associations. Dame Monica expressed her gratitude to the late Prime Minister Sir Rabbie Namaliu, who recommended her for this prestigious award.

SPOSA wishes to congratulate Dame Monica on this extraordinary achievement. Your dedication and hard work serve as an inspiration to us all and we are so proud.

Old Scholar Rupert Hoare (2019) has been making significant strides as a law student at the University of Queensland. Rupert and his team secured the title of Grand Champions at the 2023 prestigious International Maritime Law Arbitration Mooting Competition (IMLAM). The grand final, held at London’s Trinity House, (Rupert Hoare at centre holding the ceremonial helm) saw their team emerge victorious over the University of Sydney. Notably, the team’s outstanding performance was evident not only in their triumph but also in their standing as the highest-ranked team in the General Rounds. Additionally, individual speaker awards further underscored their collective and individual excellence.

SPOSA takes immense pride in your accomplishments, so congratulations!

Old Scholar Thomas Feldmann (2021) and joint Dux has been achieving some remarkable feats in both academics and sport.

He is currently a second-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Medicine Science/Doctor of Medicine at Griffith University and has just been included in 'Brisbane’s 25 Under 25: Entrepreneurs, advocates, influencers, more’ by the Courier Mail.

He is an Australian Junior Triathlon representative currently ranked 2nd in Australia in the Under 20 category. A highlight of his short but impressive track record was a second-place finish at the 2023 Oceania Junior Championships in New Zealand, which earned him automatic selection to represent Australia at the 2023 Junior World Championships in Hamburg earlier this month where he came fourth.

The SPOSA committee is excited to welcome him to a meeting on October 9 to talk about his life and achievements after graduating from St Peters.    

August 4 marked a special moment in St Peters’ history as we celebrated the Official Opening and Dedication of our new Centre for Learning and Innovation.

Pastor Paul Smith, Bishop of the Lutheran Church of Australia, St Peters Old Scholar (1979) and former College Chaplain, lead the dedication ceremony.
SPOSA Patron Margaret Curnow (1960), attended the ceremony along with several other committee members. 

Apart from the CLI being future focused and reflecting how students learn best, it honours St Peters past through key features of the building, such as an external façade that mirrors the historical architecture of Langer Library and the Chapel. Within the building, there are hexagonal soundproofing tiles on the ceilings that reflects the hexagonal pavers of the Chapel forecourt. At each of the entrances are wooden crosses made from the floorboards of Luther House. The original school bell has also found a permanent home next to the SPOSA café. 

Speaking of which SPOSA has a brand-new café that serves as a gathering place for Old Scholars, current students, and staff, serving various functions and hosting events, while also being utilized as a wonderful learning spot.

The CLI is a continuation of our founding Headmaster, Mr Wilfred Schneider’s vision – ‘That St Peters should be a school where your sons and daughters receive the best possible training’.

It is no secret that St Peters has a world-class Music Program. Our Old Scholars and any members of our community are always welcome to attend the numerous music concerts performed at the College or around the country for that matter. Recently, our Old Scholars enjoyed several notable events:

Adelaide Chorale tour
In June, St Peters Chorale performed in Tanunda, South Australia, to a full house including several Old Scholars. A heartfelt shoutout goes to Mr Ophie Renner, Rev Geoff Kuchel (1973), Karen Goldhart (nee Stiller), Sonia Holzknecht (our first student counsellor), Erik Holznecht (1969 Head Prefect), Rev Paul Lohe and Betty Lohe. Their presence added a touch of magic to this wonderful Chorale Tour. 

Echoes of Elegance
In July, St Peters Soloists delivered a series of captivating performances for their Echoes of Elegance concert. The Soloists were accompanied by talented Old Scholars Yuro Lee (2021) (violin), Angelina Kim (2020) - viola and Zoe Catchpoole (2020) soprano showcasing their potential as future professional concert musicians with a performance full of character and poise. Thank you Yuro, Angelina and Zoe for an unforgettable evening of music. 

On Saturday, August 19, St Peters First XIs faced our Old Scholars in an intense football match. The game ended in a 3-all tie, ultimately decided by a penalty shootout, with the First XIs emerging as the winners and retaining the David Brown Cup. Congratulations to the First XIs and thank you to both teams, for participating. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for our Old Scholars to reconnect with one another at the College and SPOSA really appreciates the time you all took to attend. Special thanks to the Sports House for coordinating the match. We can’t wait to see you all back again next year for another exciting game! 

In May the St Peters Old Scholars vs Open Basketball game was played at the gym. It was a closely contested game, however the ‘Old’ girls got the job done and pulled away in the last quarter finishing 53 to 39. It was a great game and fantastic to watch the fun rivalry between the teams. Thank you to Anne-Marie Champion for organising this Old Scholar game and to those Old Scholars from 2010 to 2022 (Ashleigh Thompson (2010); Lorna Shepherd (2011); Peta Fox (2014); Ale Orozco (2015); Georgia Champion (2015); Grace Champion (2018); Holly Johansen (2018); Gabby Neal (2022); Sonia McGrath (2022) for taking the time out of your busy schedules to participate. See you next time!

Congratulations to the following Old Scholars for achieving great things in swimming, athletics, and netball:

• 

  Torrie Lewis (2022) made her World Athletics Championships debut in Budapest, Hungary in August. Torrie competed in the 100m and 4 x 100m relay events and at 18 years of age was the youngest member of the 67-strong squad.

• Earlier in August our St Peters Old Scholars were simply unstoppable at the 2023 World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan. An impressive nine Old Scholars (Ariarne Titmus (2018), Mollie O’Callaghan (2022), Kai Taylor (2021), Jack Carwright (2015), Abbey Harkin (2016), Jenna Forrester (2020) competed and achieved an unprecedented number of medals from the meet, setting five new world records, and showcasing their exceptional talent and St Peters’ world-leading swimming program. 

• Congratulations to Ruby Bakewell-Doran (PY 2016) and the Origin Diamonds squad who won the Netball World Championships in Capetown.

   
     We are so proud of you all!

There was a buzz surrounding the Lohe Street tennis courts on Sunday 23 July, with the second annual SPOSA Tennis Tournament taking place. Over 20 doubles teams consisting of Old Scholars, current students and their parents, competed for the trophy.

The final saw Zinta M (Year 6) and Old Scholar Matt Stubbings (2016) take on Luke D (Year 12) and his father, Jimmy Dyer.  The standard of tennis throughout the tournament, and in particular during the final, was incredibly impressive. After a hard-fought battle, the Dyers were victorious for a second year in a row! 
 
This year’s event was extra special, with the official ‘Turning on the Lights’ taking place before the finals were played. During the June/July school holidays, tennis lights were installed on all five Lohe Street Tennis Courts, and they are already making a huge difference to the tennis program. St Peters hosted Moreton Bay College recently under the lights for QGSSSA fixtures, and it allows students to extend training time early in the morning and into the evening.   

Huge thanks to St Peters Old Scholars Association, for their continued support of this event. 

Saturday 29 July saw eleven teams battle it out at the P&F|SPOSA Trivia Night. It was fantastic fun for many of our Old Scholars and current parents getting into the spirit of the Nursery Rhyme theme. Quiz Master and MC Kat Feeney did a brilliant job keeping everyone on track and entertained throughout the night. Congratulations to our winning team who nominated the Indigenous Literacy Foundation for the $1000.00 donation!

Thank you also to Rob Barber (1990) for driving this event and Julie Ross (1969) for helping on the night. 

Exactly 21 years ago, back in September 2002, Pastor Reini Mayer officiated the naming of St Peters' Rainforest Reserve as the ‘Barry Jahnke Rainforest Reserve’. Barry is a former St Peters biology teacher who nurtured the rainforest for three decades before his retirement in 2001. This oasis holds an important significance for St Peters' staff and students, as it complements their units of study from creative writing, history, geography and biology, and it is a serene haven for artistic endeavours, meditation and reflection.

Since his retirement, Barry's legacy of establishing and nurturing the rainforest has been upheld by a small group of dedicated and passionate staff who have volunteered their time and talents to tend to this hidden gem. Notably Chris Chapman, a recently retired senior history and geography teacher, has faithfully nurtured the rainforest for many years. 

Nestled between the 25m pool and the Girls Boarding precinct the people involved are carrying on an important legacy that began five decades ago when the rainforest was set aside in 1969 as a green space.

Barry graced us with a recent visit, surveying the rainforest's progress and ‘passing the torch’ to another exceptional staff member and Old Scholar, Megan Daley (1993). Following in the footsteps of Chris and Barry, Megan is embarking on the tireless journey to preserve this land and uphold its pivotal role—educating our students. Thank you to Barry and Megan for the captivating rainforest tour, and we eagerly anticipate Megan's green thumb touch that will undoubtedly shape its future.

At the age of twelve, coming from a vastly different cultural background, Old Scholar Bart Philemon (1965) embarked on a life-changing journey by enrolling as a boarder at St Peters in 1958 when he was in grade six. This decision had a significant impact on his life over the next eight years, extending beyond academics. It helped him grow personally through character development, actively participating in extracurricular activities, and building valuable leadership skills. His time at the College also exposed him to cultural diversity and independence, preparing him for university and a successful career.

Outside the classroom, Bart discovered a passion for sports. Excelling in Rugby Union and athletics, his achievements included being part of the undefeated premiership Rugby Union team for three consecutive years and won the senior 120-yard hurdles and relay events at The Associated Schools (TAS) competition. He also took on leadership roles, captaining both St Peters boys' athletic team and his College sports house, Cunningham.

When asked about any one particular memory of his time at St Peters, Bart mentioned one of his early teachers, Miss Lois Eckart, left an indelible mark on his educational journey. He said her mentorship and unwavering support were instrumental in helping him adapt to the new academic environment, fostering the confidence to excel. St Peters not only provided excellent academics but also instilled essential life lessons, including confidence, self-discipline, and resilience. These qualities served as a guide for him through unexpected future challenges.

After graduating from St Peters, Bart pursued a career in the aviation industry, working at Air Niugini. However, he became disillusioned with political corruption at government ministerial levels, which led to his departure from the company, together with rejecting several prestigious awards offered in protest to this corruption. 

Bart then returned to his village in Lae, and became an entrepreneur, with ventures in a chicken and cavendish banana farms, establishing a coffee shop, a pre-school child minding centre as well as several property investments. These endeavours, alongside commitment and hard work, facilitated the education of Bart's three children, two of whom studied at St Peters and all attended University in Brisbane. They now all reside on the Sunshine Coast. 

Driven by a vision of a corruption-free nation, Bart entered provincial politics in Morobe in 1984. In 1992 he was elected to the PNG National Parliament, as a member for Lae—a tenure that spanned an impressive two decades across four distinct parliaments. His political influence spanned various ministerial domains, ranging from Public Service, Transport and Civil Aviation to Foreign Affairs, Bougainville Affairs, Finance and Treasury, and Public Service and Sport.

After his political service, opportunities in the private sector beckoned. Bart took on roles as director on the boards of various companies, including Oil Search, Highlands Pacific, and the Bank of PNG. He undertook a crucial role in resolving the financial challenges faced by Lutheran Shipping, a cause close to his heart as it perpetuated his commitment to advancing both business and community development.

Today, Bart finds solace and fulfilment on his agricultural farm nestled just outside of Lae. His life story underscores the transformative power of education and personal growth, driven by dedication, service, and visionary leadership. Bart enjoys a life in retirement and a continuing steadfast commitment to improving the lives of Papua New Guineans.

Sir Bob Sinclair, owner of the Lae International Hotel standing far left opposite Bart, together with a group of Australian long term business residents of Lae presented Bart with a copy of the St Peters 1963 1st XV undefeated premiership photo. It will be framed and hung in the sports bar of the hotel joining the many other sporting photos covering the walls. 

On Tuesday 30 May the College unearthed a time capsule laid 25 years ago by Mr Herb Zillmann, former Chairman of the College Council, to commemorate Multicultural Week 25-29 May 1998.

Staff and students of the current Multicultural Committee attended the ceremony, along with some Old Scholars and their children and special guest Margaret Curnow and the family of Herb Zillmann including his wife Amelia, son John, grandsons Max and Sam, and son-in-law, Tim Rose.

The time capsule contained an assortment of items including a letter from former Head of College Sally Chandler, a prayer written in Zulu, report cards, a list of teacher salaries, a Year 12 English assessment task, a hand-drawn poster from Multicultural Week and some photos. It provided an interesting glimpse into life at St Peters in the 90s.

The philosophies underpinning our education at St Peters in the sixties was not so different to that of today, and so the education we received was seriously top-shelf, and very broad in attitude, with students always encouraged to think outside the square, supported by the faculty.  And thankfully, it still is.

Our spiritual education was very Christian-focused, but not solely that, and no matter the heritage, certainly not just Lutheran-centric.  Pastors Mayer and Fielke brought a refreshing broad-brush approach, so we learned about other denominations, and indeed, other religions, so we were better-able to understand the approaches and attitudes of people from other societies, of which St Peters has been for decades, a champion for them.

In my time at St Peters, most Sundays would find me as an Anglican server at the local church, St Andrews, and my parents (hopefully) wondered if I’d ever make it to Holy Orders.  When we were 19, my girlfriend (these days, my wife and director-in-chief) made it clear to me … I should be in Holy Orders … and she was right.  She always was. However, given I was the slowest learner in my class, this didn’t happen for another 35 years.  This, the first part of the circle, for as it is written; when the student is ready, the teacher appears.

So I then had some wonderful teachers, notably bishops who were also professional teachers and one, a head-of-college in their own day-jobs, and again, I was encouraged to think … outside the square, and to learn the lessons that our Master Christ came to teach us, as He did the Apostles from whom came the foundations of the Christian Church as we know it today, and which gave the sacramental side of Christianity its episcopal lineage.

In 2021, after many years as a priest, I was asked to take on the role of Bishop in a small sacramental church.  However, COVID-19 was still with us, and meeting spaces were still restricted because of separation issues.  The small church we used would not be adequate to allow the social distancing of a minimum 1.5m between people which was needed, and so I needed a significantly bigger church, so I turned to my Alma Mater, St Peter’s for help.

Bishop Paul Smith and our Head of College Tim Kotzur and the Board of College and the Lutheran Synod could not have done more for me, for I was unaware that the wonderful Chapel which I had the privilege of watching being built, brick by brick, was to undergo its first real cleansing and overhauling since we all left in 1969. The tradies said … "Ah … we might finish by March or April".  Bishop Paul said … "Not quite … we have a consecration of an old scholar to the episcopate on 28th of January 2022, and you’ll be entirely finished by 5.00PM Friday the 27th … won’t you?"  And they were. In your life, you will find yourself owing an enormous debt to people who you’ll never meet, and such is a debt you cannot ever repay.  You just say … "thank you".  Such it is for me, for my consecration went ahead, COVID notwithstanding. 

So that’s Part 1 … but where’s the circle?

In July this year, one of my mentoring bishops had a fall in Perth, banged his head, and as a result of head injuries, passed to Higher Service a week later, and as a fellow bishop, I was asked to give a Eulogy.  Meanwhile, classmate Julie Ross (nee Hillman 1969), was planning to visit another classmate Lyn Birkelbach (nee Miller 1969) also in Perth, at the same time, and given that Lyn was quite unwell and unable to attend her church in person anymore, Julie asked me (now as Bishop David) to come for morning tea, conduct a service, and give Lynne, an old classmate of both of us, the Sacraments of Holy Unction (oils) and Communion.

So now the circle … has gone full circle.  The three of us, schoolmates from the late-60s, going to school together, growing up together, and in later life, coming back together, that one might serve others.  So yes, education is important, and so too are the steppingstones we take post-secondary and tertiary education … but we must never lose sight of why we are here … and that’s to do as Jesus said in Matthew 25 … to minister to our brothers and sisters, wherever it is we find them … for such is the circle of life.

Rt Rev David Jones (1969)

SPOSA acknowledges the contribution and commitment of those members who stepped down from the Committee at the recent AGM. Thank you to James Armstrong (Treasurer), and Greg Morton for their support and commitment throughout your time on the committee. Our committee for 2024 is listed below.

President……………………….Llewellyn Jones (1983)
Vice President……………… Rowena Lester (nee Fulton 1991)
Vice President……………… Rob Barber (1990)
Treasurer……………………… Simon Gideon (nee Mafi 1994)
Secretary………………………Anne Fulton (1988)
Patron……………………………Margaret Curnow (1960)
Committee Members:
- Anna Staley (1983)
- Zoe Truesdell (1998)
- Cassandra Sun (1991)
- Gwendoline Lewerissa (1973)
- Phillip Woo (1975)
- Karel Baum (1976)
- Julie Ross (nee Hillman 1969)
- Jennifer White (nee Dalrymple 1996)
- David Jones (1969)
- Bradley Porter (1975)

St Peters and its Old Scholar community were deeply saddened at the tragic events of 19-20 August in which longstanding staff member Julie Walker lost both her husband and home of over thirty years. The devastating fire, resulted in the loss of her home, and the adjacent families also made homeless. Julie’s husband Hugh was rescued by a neighbour and rushed to hospital, however he tragically succumbed to serious burns.

Hugh’s funeral was held in the St Peters Chapel on Wednesday 30 August, and officiated by pastors from St Andrew’s Lutheran Church, Brisbane – their home congregation. As part of the St Peters teaching staff for 27 years, Julie has touched the lives of many students, parents and colleagues, all who will have vivid recollections of her kindness. 

We now have an opportunity to demonstrate our care by supporting Julie, her daughters and their families with prayers and financial aid. On Julie’s behalf, the College has started a GoFundMe appeal to provide much needed assistance. Please use the link provided below if you wish to donate; and personal comments of support can also be recorded here for Julie and her family.

Please use this GoFundMe Page to assist Mrs Walker with the financial burdens that come with rebuilding her life.

We actively encourage our talented and generous Old Scholars to consider sharing their skills and experiences with our current St Peters students. Mentoring can make a difference and is mutually beneficial. If you would like more information on becoming a mentor at St Peters, please email sposa@stpeters.qld.edu.au

All Old Scholars are welcome and encouraged to attend our regular meetings, which provide a great way to find out more about what SPOSA does and to get involved in events, volunteering or even join the Committee. Meetings are held at St Peters in the new Centre for Learning and Innovation and via teams online. Please email sposa@stpeters.qld.edu.au for more information or if you have any meeting discussion points you wish to provide for consideration.

The remaining dates for 2023 SPOSA Committee Meetings are 9 October and 13 November.

We love to keep in touch with our Old Scholars and invite you to share the stories and events that are important to you. Upcoming events? Births or marriages? Success stories? Great photos or video? Remember an outstanding teacher? Have wonderful memories of your time at St Peters? Send us your photos, videos and news through to sposa@stpeters.qld.edu.au so we can share it with our wonderful community!

Click here to update your details. You can also access more information about SPOSA on the St Peters website at this link.

Please connect with us via our social media pages Facebook or Instagram to see photos from our archives and keep up to date with all news and notices.
SPOSA Facebook @SPOSA45
SPOSA Instagram @splc.sposa
LinkedIn St Peters Lutheran College 

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of our St Peters Community members who have sadly passed away recently.                                                              

Rhe-Anna Pato (2012) –               June 2023
Joy Klibbe(nee Schultz) (1951)-   April 2021
Glen Frith (1956) –                      2021(exact date unknown)
Rev Leo Doecke -                        27 July 2023
Colin Stiller (1953)-                     2 August 2023
Eric Schultz (1951)-                     September 2023