Trinity Year 10 student

For me, contributing to something greater than myself means recognising that you are part of a community and choosing to use your time and abilities to make that community better. Through my involvement in the school’s Harambee outreach program, I have learnt how small, sometimes unnoticeable, acts of service can make real change when added together.

I was first introduced to the Harambee program by my brother when I was in Year 7, and it has completely changed how I see the world. Whether it has been helping with fundraising or simply giving up my time to support others, I have learnt that genuine service is never about receiving the associated recognition. It is truly about being willing to contribute because you are aware that what you are doing matters to others and strengthens the community you belong to.

Trinity parent

When my older son started at Trinity in 2018, I felt disconnected from his new school environment and community. I was busy with my career and three children at three different schools and felt like I couldn’t possibly juggle another commitment. A few years later, life was different. I had two sons at the same school, and, after a tap on the shoulder to take on a volunteer role, I discovered how rewarding it was to belong and contribute to the Trinity community.

I have had the good fortune of being able to provide my sons with an excellent education. But it is not possible to buy them an appreciation of service, compassion and generosity. These values must be lived and demonstrated. Trinity creates opportunities for students, parents and staff to lead by example. Through volunteering, I hope to show my sons that privilege carries responsibility and that strong communities depend on people generously contributing their time and care. When my younger son graduates from Year 12 next year, I hope my contribution will have formed a small part of Trinity’s enduring culture of inclusivity, gratitude and service.

PS I will be vacating my volunteer role as Senior School Class Rep Coordinator shortly. Please get in touch with the Community Engagement team if you are interested in this fabulous opportunity.

Year 6 Teacher and Junior School Community
Service Coordinator

Having been part of the Trinity community for 14 years, I have seen firsthand how service shapes both those who give and those who receive. Contributing to something greater than myself means helping young people understand their responsibility to others and walking alongside them as they put that understanding into action.

Some of my most meaningful experiences have been accompanying our boys on East Africa tours to work as part of our Harambee community in Uganda, helping students collect items for local families, and participating in Trinity
community events. These experiences have shown me that service is about connection, compassion, and shared humanity.

They remind me that when we give our time, energy, and care to others, we strengthen our community and develop ourselves in the process. Through these shared experiences, we build lasting relationships that continue to shape and support us long after the moment has passed.

Trinity alumnus

Service has been part of who I have been since childhood. My grandparents gave so much of themselves to the community. Watching them connect with people in a genuinely compassionate way, never transactional, shaped how I see generosity.

That lesson crystallised in the US, volunteering with H.O.P.E (Help Our People Eat), delivering food to North Carolina communities in need. It wasn’t just about food; it was sitting with people, hearing their stories and giving young people something to aspire to.

That taught me service is about presence, not just provision. That instinct carries into my work in sports media today, where connecting with young people and offering them my time feels like the most meaningful part of the job.

If I could leave people with one thought, it’s this: you never know what the person next to you is going through. Offer your support anyway and lead with your heart.

Student artwork by Harry, Year 12. Oil on canvas artwork ‘A Distorted Peace’ (2026) explores the looming threat of international conflict within first world metropolitan life.

At our recent OTGA Community Breakfast, futurist Steve Sammartino delivered an engaging and thought-provoking presentation about the extraordinary pace of technological change and the opportunities that AI will create. While much of Steve’s presentation focused on technology, AI and the increasingly powerful devices we carry in our pockets, there was also a broader message that resonated strongly with the values of the Trinity community: technology is ultimately a tool, and its greatest value will come from how we choose to use it to improve people’s lives.

We are entering a period in which AI will transform the way we work, learn, communicate and solve problems. The smartphone has already given individuals access to capabilities that would have been unimaginable only a generation ago. AI and robotics represent the next significant step, placing even greater knowledge and capability into the hands of individuals.

Yet at a time when technology can make us increasingly independent, Steve’s presentation was also a timely reminder of something technology cannot replace: the importance of human connection and community.

These values sit at the heart of the Old Trinity Grammarians’ Association (OTGA). Our community is strongest when OTGs remain connected to this network and also contribute to it.

That contribution takes many forms. It can be an OTG mentoring a younger graduate as they begin their career, volunteering time to support a Trinity club or event, providing philanthropic support, sharing professional experience, or simply making themselves available to help another member of our community. Steve’s own son, James, is in Year 8 and no doubt influenced Steve to agree to present his thoughts and ideas surrounding our future.

These acts strengthen the relationships between generations of OTGs and reinforce the idea that belonging to Trinity does not end when a student walks through the gates for the final time.

This is particularly important in a world that can often celebrate individual achievement ahead of collective responsibility. The Trinity community has an opportunity to demonstrate that success and service are not competing ideas. Indeed, some of the most meaningful measures of success are the positive impact we have on others and our willingness to use our experience, connections and resources to create opportunities for those around us.

Steve’s optimism about technology therefore provides an important challenge for all of us. As AI and robotics change our world, our values become more important, not less. Technology can connect us, educate us and empower us, but compassion, social responsibility and generosity remain fundamentally choices.

For the OTGA, that means continuing to foster lifelong connections and a culture where OTGs support the school, each other and give back to the community. Technology may transform the world the next generation inherits, but it will be service, generosity and community that help determine the kind of world we create and live in.

STEPHEN JONES “BE
GLORIOUS” LEADERSHIP BREAKFAST (MCG)
Thursday 18 February

OTG DADS’ NIGHT (BULLEEN)
Monday 22 March

2027 GOLD MITRE LUNCH
Wednesday 24 March

2022 OTG 5 YEAR REUNION
Wednesday 14 April

1987 OTG 40 YEAR REUNION
Thursday 20 May

1997 OTG 30 YEAR REUNION
Thursday 20 May

2007 OTG 20 YEAR REUNION
Thursday 10 June

2017 OTG 10 YEAR REUNION
Thursday 29 July

OTGA COMMUNITY BREAKFAST
20 August

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After leaving Trinity, Julian initially set his sights on becoming a pilot. He gained a Commercial Pilot Licence, Instructor Rating and Diploma in Aeronautics, but September 11 and the collapse of Ansett Airlines made breaking into aviation difficult.

A series of experiences providing first aid while travelling sparked Julian’s interest in paramedicine. Having grown up with a doctor and nurse as parents, ambulance work felt like a natural fit, combining his interest in healthcare with the variety and unpredictability he was looking for in a career.

What began as a ‘back-up pathway’ ultimately became a career that brought together two very different worlds. After working as an Advanced Life Support Paramedic, he undertook further study in aeromedical retrieval and began working as a flight paramedic with Air Ambulance Victoria. He later completed a Graduate Diploma in Critical Care and a Masters in Emergency Health, becoming a MICA Flight Paramedic on the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS), a role he has held for more than 10 years.

Today, Julian responds to some of Victoria’s most critical emergencies, from road trauma, farming and industrial accidents to strokes and heart attacks. Around five per cent of the team’s work involves search and rescue, including winching injured people from forests, mountains, cliffs and even ships in Bass Strait.

But it is the people, rather than the adrenaline, that have shaped Julian’s understanding of his profession.

“There’s no place for judgement,” he says. “You never know the circumstances that have brought a person to this point.” Whether treating someone experiencing addiction, mental health difficulties or serious injury, Julian believes every  person deserves compassion, dignity and appropriate care.

For Julian, care is also about the people you work alongside. In high-pressure situations, good communication and creating an environment where people feel comfortable speaking up are essential.

“Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast,” he says, quoting one his favourite sayings.

That sense of looking out for others is something Julian traces back to Trinity. He fondly remembers teachers who demonstrated compassion, humour and humanity, as well as a Year 6 camp visit to a local ambulance station – an experience he didn’t realise at the time might influence his future.

Above all, Julian says, “mateship” has stayed with him. “In our job, you rely heavily on the people around you, and sometimes the smallest gestures of support can make a big difference.”

After seeing people on some of the worst days of their lives, Julian says what gives him hope is witnessing how often people step forward to help one another. It is a lesson that extends well beyond paramedicine: making a difference is not simply about a profession or a title, but about choosing to look out for the people around us.

Our Principal, Mr Farrer, travelled to Sydney and Canberra in August to reconnect with OTGs who are now living and working in these cities. These gatherings provided a wonderful opportunity to strengthen alumni connections, hear about the diverse careers and experiences of our Old Trinity Grammarians, and share updates from the school. We thank everyone who attended and helped make the visits such a success.

It was wonderful to see so many members of the Class of 2016 who were able to join us for their 10 year reunion in September.

Cooper Gerwing, Thomas Paidoussis, Noah Chambers, Noah Campbell, Tyler Petersen, Patrick Kendall

Luke Hondrakis, Jun Kim, Sam Jordan, Sam Harden

The Class of 1976 recently celebrated its 50th Anniversary with a dinner at the Skinny Dog Hotel in Kew. With the support of the school and a dedicated team of Class of ’76 volunteers, the organisers were able to reconnect with members of the cohort, with approximately 50 classmates attending the event.

A particular highlight of the evening was the attendance of the Preshill students who attended Trinity and two former teachers, Roy Farrance and Richard Pearson, both of whom were in fine form.

It was wonderful to catch up with them and reminisce about people, classes and events from more than 50 years ago.

The dinner featured a slideshow of photographs spanning the years from Grade 1 through to 1976, including memorable images of the victorious 1st XVIII team. Attendees also shared fond memories of Bernie Byers and John “Indo Jack” Collins, sparking plenty of laughter and reflection.

The evening included a number of entertaining speeches, expertly led by the night’s MC, “Lethal” Leigh Hodges, whose humour kept the room thoroughly engaged. It was a fantastic night, filled with friendship, nostalgia and great memories, and a fitting celebration of the Class of 1976.

Peter Beer
Class of 1976

Just over 100 members of the Trinity community joined us for the OTGA Community Breakfast in August. Guests were treated to an insightful presentation by Australia’s leading AI specialist, futurist, entrepreneur, author and respected media commentator, Steve Sammartino. Steve explored the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, demystifying complex concepts and explaining the opportunities and challenges of this transformative technology in an engaging and accessible way.

Our sincere thanks go to Steve for sharing his expertise and delivering such a thought-provoking and enjoyable presentation. To find out more about Steve go to stevesammartino.com

Help us stay in touch by keeping your details up to date, ensuring you receive the latest school news and invitations to reunions near and far.  You may do this by contacting us at otg@trinity.vic.edu.au or by joining our alumni platform OTGO.net. 

Old Trinity Grammarians’ Cricket Club

Jakob Kann (OTG 2018)
2nd XI Captain

This OTGCC update comes from OTGCC Committee Member, Second XI Captain and reigning Second XI Champion Player, Jakob Kann, who reflects on his journey with the OTGCC and his experiences as an active and involved volunteer.

At 19, I was playing cricket for my local team, unenthusiastic and coming to training loathing the environment I was playing in. A good friend of mine reached out to me and said, “If you’re still interested in playing cricket you should reach out to the OTGCC”. What a blessing that message was. The culture and environment that the senior leadership team had produced (and still produce to this day) is second to none. Welcoming, friendly, warm and competitive – I wouldn’t choose any other environment to play in.

Since joining the OTGCC in 2019, I’ve gone on to play in four semi-finals, taken a five-wicket haul and made my maiden ton. This success is purely down to the culture and environment that has been so carefully fostered at the club.

For the last two years, I have also had the honour of captaining the Second XI. This responsibility has allowed me to gain confidence as a leader in the OTG context and also in my daily life. In my third year as captain, as well as encouraging further improvement in my own playing group, I also strive for success for the club as a whole, both on and off the field. A premiership is the only thing missing from my short tenure, but the hunger and desire is burning! I am confident we can take the next step to win in season 26/27.

As part of the OTGCC’s senior leadership team, I am also extremely passionate about cultivating and contributing to the social fabric that makes this club great. Yes, we strive for success in the form of runs and wickets, but the ultimate power of the club is as a vehicle for social connection for OTGs across multiple generations. We have a series of exciting social events in the pipeline for this season and with the integration of the new pavilion and completion of other works at the Marles Playing Fields we are confident we will see a strengthening in relationships between the school and the OTG community.

If, as a departing student of Trinity, you are looking for a great environment to continue enjoying your cricket after school, then I highly recommend reaching out to me or any other members of the OTGCC family.

Old Trinity Grammarians’ Amateur Football Club

Tony Mulcahy
OTGAFC President

It was great to see the Thirds make it into the finals under the amazing guidance of coach Josh Mannix (OTG 2016). Congratulations!

The Firsts found it tough going back into A Grade. However, with resilience and determination the team finished the season strong to keep our spot in the Premier Division.

We also acknowledge Donald McDonald, our Senior Coach, who is stepping down after an amazing coaching career at OTGAFC. He has brought us premiership cups, a great structure and a very professional team that have brought our boys back into the top league. Donald has been with us for four years and has brought so much success and enthusiasm to a tough job.

After four years as coach, it is time now for him to help Terry and his ever-expanding family, but he will be staying on at the football club in other areas. I cannot thank Donald enough for all he has done and the difference he has made to so many of our players.

We will begin interviewing prospective coaches very shortly and will make sure we continue to be led by the best.

Congratulations also to the TGS Football First XVIII, who made it into the AGSV Grand Final, and although it didn’t go our way, the players should be very proud of their efforts.

We’re very close to moving back into the new Bulleen facilities, which will make us the envy of the VAFA and AGSV, and we can’t wait to enjoy the building.

We look forward to all the Year 12s coming down to the 2027 pre-season training nights that will be begin in early to mid-November, once they have finished school. Good luck for the final few weeks and exams.

Tom Cohen (OTG 2018)
OTGHC Co-President

The OTGHC has had a successful season, performing well across both teams. Despite our VL3 team missing out on the finals this season, the club was pleased to see increased team and player development in this side.

Our MM2 team has produced an excellent result this season, with an almost perfect match record going into finals. The club anxiously awaits the results of the MM2 finals round with the hope that OTGHC can bring home some long-awaited silverware. We attribute some of our success this season to our off-field video reviews which seem to have yielded fruitful results.

Moving away from the pitch, OTGHC was proud to have hosted its first trivia event which was hotly contested between almost 30 members of our club. We otherwise we are looking forward to our end-of season presentation night as a final send-off to the winter season.

OTGHC will be participating in the summer competition again this year, which is a friendly social competition open to all skill levels. For anyone who may be interested in playing with our club, the summer competition is a great way to ease into the sport, whether you have never played hockey before or are dusting the cobwebs off your old stick.

Enquiries: Contact Tom on 0487 346 042 or TGHockey@gmail.com. Go Ts!

Chris Liosatos (OTG 2021)
OTGSC Co- President

After an excellent year for the club, the OTGSC wrapped up its season the same way we started, firing on all fronts.

A real highlight was battling the successful Trinity Firsts XI in the annual cup, a fixture that has certainly become a genuine celebration of the ties between the club and the school. Truly one of the best days on our calendar.

We tied off the year with a historic season. After battling the idea of promotion, we entered the last few games with a real chance qualifying for the state league playoff game. With a few tough fought games at the end of the season, we managed to clinch the chance to be promoted. The entire club, supporters and broader community all drove up to Bundoora at the Home of Matilda’s playing grounds where we faced Keysborough District. Goals from Nicholas Mitrevski and Katrik Misra (Captain) sent the entire club through to promotion! An incredible way to end one of the club’s best seasons ever!

It is worth acknowledging that this is set to be Lino Salzano’s last year as President, capping off a brilliant five years of dedicated service to the club.

If you’re interested in playing, get in touch with Chris or Eddie on Instagram @oldtrinitysoccerclub or via email at otgsoccerclub@outlook.com

Ed Smith (OTG 2017)
OTGWPC President

The OTGWPC enjoyed a tremendous start to the second half of 2026, once again entering two teams into the Victorian summer competition. After a start marked by injuries to key players, the Otters have bounced back in recent weeks and look to continue their winning streak to gain a strong position on the ladder come finals time in November. The Pups have also been performing at a high level, with key games coming up to determine their finals chances as well.

The club has enjoyed strong attendances at trainings and social events, reflecting a tight-knit community growing with each passing month.

We are also excited to announce (at the time of writing this) that after an eight-year hiatus, OTG Water Polo is sending a team to Canberra on September 18-20 to compete against some of the nation’s strongest clubs in the Canberra Cup tournament.

Leopold Grant (OTG 1942) It was wonderful to hear from Leo, who is believed to be Trinity’s oldest OTG. Leo celebrated his 102nd birthday in June this year!

Leo attended Trinity from 1937 to 1941 and was a member of Henty House.

Christopher Weinberg (OTG 2009) and his wife Grace were delighted to welcome the arrival of their daughter, Eleanor Grace Gillett Weinberg, born on 23 July 2026.

Trinity Archives would like to thank the following for their donations to our collection:

Robin Smead (OTG 1959) Treen tray made in class in Form Lower IVa Peter Beer (OTG 1976) Photographs, sports ribbons and speech night program

Stefano Martini (OTG 2000) School soccer and OTGSC photographs

Janet Heffernan Copies of The Mitre from two generations of the Hedding family: Alan (OTG 1914), Bob (OTG 1942), Bruce (OTG 1944) and Kenneth (OTG 1949)

Felicity Turnbull
Sports trophies and photographs belonging to John Trotter (OTG 1940)

Contact the Trinity Archives at archives@trinity.vic.edu.au.