Returning to Parade College in an official capacity as the Alumni Officer has been an exciting and fulfilling experience during my first few weeks. The College has certainly changed since my school days in the early 1980s. While the uniform remains familiar, I am truly impressed by the incredible facilities our current students enjoy every day.

I began my Parade journey as a Year 7 student at Edmund Rice Campus and completed my HSC in 1986. My time at Parade was filled with memorable experiences and lifelong friendships — many of which remain strong to this day. This year, the Class of 1986 will celebrate our 40-year reunion in November, and I am greatly looking forward to reconnecting with my former classmates and reminiscing about our school days.

Shortly after completing my HSC, I was fortunate to be employed by the College for a 12-month role assisting the Sport and Woodwork departments. Admittedly, I spent more time in the Sports Department — kicking the footy, playing table tennis, or shooting hoops — than in the woodwork rooms! That year deepened my connection to the College community and solidified my love for sport and camaraderie.

In 1987, I joined the Old Paradians Football Club, where I played for 14 years. It was a wonderful period of my life, building friendships and representing the Club alongside Old Paradians from many different eras. I retired from playing in 1999, shortly before the birth of my first child, but remained actively involved with the Club. Over the past seven years, I have proudly served on the committee, including the last four years as Vice President.

Before stepping into the Alumni Officer role, I spent 15 years at the Melbourne Cricket Club as Customer Service Manager, followed by three years in senior management roles. These experiences have strengthened my leadership, communication, and community engagement skills — all of which I am now delighted to bring to this role.

Taking over from John Nicholls as Alumni Officer is both an honour and a privilege. Having known John for many years — from my time as a student on the school football team to more recent collaborations on Old Paradians Football Club awards — I recognise the large shoes I have to fill. I feel incredibly grateful for the warm welcome and support from the entire Development Office and broader Parade College staff, which has made my transition both seamless and enjoyable.

We have an exciting year ahead with numerous Old Paradians Association events and luncheons planned and I look forward to building on the strong foundations of alumni engagement and ensuring another successful and enjoyable year.