2024 In Review

Bianca Lapins, Community Relations Officer

The mission of the Kilvonian Alumni is to build a community of former students who enjoy and contribute to Kilvington’s rich culture of connection, relationships and care. I’m pleased to say that, thanks to the direction and dedication of the Kilvonian Alumni Committee, we are well and truly working towards mission accomplished! 

This year, our regular program of reunions brought together former classmates and teachers at Kilvington and off-site venues, allowing them to reconnect and learn about all the wonderful developments at the School. 

The Kilvonian Walking Club continued its monthly meetups at Duncan Mackinnon Reserve, providing a relaxed space for coffee, conversation and a few gentle laps around the park. This casual friendly group welcomes children and pets with no ongoing commitment required.

In an exciting first, many of our Alumni enjoyed a group theatre booking, with Kilvonians and friends coming together to see Sister Act The Musical at a discounted price. 

One of the year’s big successes has been the formation of the Kilvonian Alumni Choir, which meets every Monday evening during term time to foster community and celebrate the joy of singing. Open to all past students with no audition required, the choir is led by acclaimed musician David Ashton-Smith OAM, Director of the Melbourne Welsh Male Choir, whose career includes ten years singing with the English National Opera in London. 

At the recent Kilvonian Konnections ‘Legends’ event, attendees enjoyed inspiring stories of gratitude, resilience, and joy shared by former teaching staff, along with a beautiful performance by the Kilvonian Alumni Choir. The room was filled with warmth and energy as panelists and guests mingled, exchanged Kilvington memories, and reflected on the profound impact the School has had on their lives.

We have another full year of events and initiatives planned for our alumni in 2025. Head to the 2025 Reunions and Upcoming Events pages in this newsletter for more details, or head to the Kilvonian Alumni website at alumni.kilvington.vic.edu.au.

Kilvonian Alumni Committee

This year the members of the Kilvonian Alumni Committee worked extremely hard to develop and implement new initiatives for Kilvonians. We thank them all for their dedication, inspirations and commitment over the past year: Sarah Lim - President, Class of 2003; Rachel Cetrola, Class of 2018; Ann Cleghorn, Class of 1977; George Crossingham, Class of 2017; Sarah McSwiney, Class of 1999; Ellie Pietsch, Class of 1999 and Peter Yu, Class of 2017.  

An extra special thank you to Ann Cleghorn as she steps away from the Kilvonian Alumni Committee after many years of dedicated service. Ann’s commitment to our alumni, her caring nature and wealth of knowledge are invaluable, and have been a tremendous benefit to our alumni community. We are incredibly grateful for all her support and input and will miss her deeply. Thank you Ann! 

Welcome to the Class of 2024

As the Class of 2024 bids farewell to Kilvington and begins new adventures beyond the school gates, we congratulate you on finishing your high school journey. We welcome you to the Kilvington Alumni and look forward to a continued connection with you.

Kilvonian Alumni Committee member Rachel Cetrola (Class of 2018), shares some words of encouragement. 

To the class of 2024

Congratulations on finishing secondary school. You should all be incredibly proud of the hard work, commitment and dedication with which you have pursued your studies. No matter what lies ahead, go forward with the courage and grit that Kilvington has taught us so well. 

Entering the next phase of your life, particularly university, may feel a little daunting. At the age of 18 it can be hard to know your career or life’s plan. If ever you end up in a degree or career path that you feel doesn’t fit who you are, do not be afraid of change. Pursue your passion, as life always has a way of working out.

Upon your graduation, you officially become Kilvington Alumni – welcome to the community! I hope that, as Kilvonians, you cherish and grow your friendships beyond the school gates and keep a special place in your heart for Kilvington. The Kilvington Alumni Committee warmly welcomes any new members and encourages you to keep your eyes out for reunions and alumni events.

I wish all of you the very best in your future studies and endeavours. And I’m sure you won’t forget; Non Nobis Sed Omnibus – Not for our own, but other’s good!