A HISTORIC celebration of Tenison Woods College and its predecessors has recognised significant contributions by former students, families and staff members.
The Tenison Woods College Shining Light Awards held recently honoured five recipients with a levitating light globe award and a video presentation showcasing their individual stories.
The 2018 recipients were Alan Balshaw, Sally Duigan, Jenna McCormick, Jeanette Elliott and Anthony Casadio.
“We value the contributions of all community members, past and present,” Tenison Woods College principal David Mezinec said.
“We think it is important to recognise some of the stand-out achievements within the community.”
Local identity and former student David Kenseley was the host for the ceremony, presenting five 2018 Shining Light awards.
Previous recipients also attended the celebration.
“I was delighted to see 2017 recipient Noel Bull attending the function,” Mr Mezinec said.
“Noel’s invitation to youth last year was to put their hand up to help out, which became our theme for the 2018 year.
“After an outstanding year, our school captains Evangelia Wichmann and Daniel Ker presented myself and the staff with a cushion as a memento stitched with ‘hands up, help out 2018’.”
Mr Mezinec said the cushion was a symbol of what the awards were about.
“It is about connecting the wisdom and inspiration from the past with the enthusiasm and vision of our young of today,” he said.
“Noel’s inspiration combined with Evangelia and Daniel’s wonderful leadership ensured our student community was wonderfully active, proactive and responsive.
“The students raised in excess of $11,000 for charities this year in addition to putting their hand up to create community, connect with other communities and be present in our school family.”
A special presentation was made to the college by Peter and Sandy Coulson, who accepted Anthony Casadio’s award on behalf of his sister Virginia.
Sandy presented principal David Mezinec with Anthony Casadio’s naval service hat.
The college was honoured to accept the gift, which will be displayed proudly in Anthony’s memory.
The evening celebrated the contributions of all students, parents, staff and friends of the college who have helped evolve Tenison over the past 138 years.
Over 100 guests, recipients, representatives and their friends and families gathered at The Commodore on the Park on the night and enjoyed a three course meal.
