WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Our goal is to celebrate and facilitate communication and involvement amongst the past and present college community. 

Do you want to share your story? We enjoy hearing about your lived experiences, pathways, and successes. 

If you've received an award or have a success story, we would love to hear from you! Alternatively, if you come across a story about a Thistlelonian, please share it with us. 

Message us on Facebook or email alumni@mckinnonsc.vic.edu.au.

JACOB HORVATH (CLASS OF 2021)

Congratulations to Jacob Horvath (Class of 2021), who has signed with the University of North Carolina Tar Heels for the next two seasons. Jacob will play under the coaching of legendary six-time Super Bowl mentor Bill Belichick, who joined the Tar Heels over the U.S. summer.

After two standout seasons as a punter for Eastern Illinois, Jacob impressed with a 44.3-yard average across 54 punts—including a long kick of 76 yards. His consistent performance earned him Second Team All-Big South/OVC honours.

Originally a soccer and AFL player during his time at McKinnon, Jacob was rated the No. 11 international punting prospect by ProKicker.com before launching his American football career.

From McKinnon Secondary College to one of the biggest stages in college football, Jacob’s journey is a testament to talent, hard work and resilience. We can’t wait to see what’s next!

CHLOE DICKSON (CLASS OF 2008)

Chloe Dickson, class of 2008, has recently been featured in a documentary about her career as a professional Muay Thai fighter. The documentary follows four fighters from the gym that Chloe and her partner own and run, Khaoboy Muay Thai, as they prepare for upcoming competitions. 

As a student at McKinnon, Chloe was known for her athleticism and sporting prowess. However, she only found Muay Thai later in life and it has become her passion. From starting her amateur career in 2022 she was undefeated in four fights, before being invited to compete professionally. She fought professionally four times, remaining undefeated at the highest level of the sport in Victoria. Chloe also represented Australia at the World Muay Thai Championships in 2023, earning a bronze medal. Currently taking some time away, Chloe has just had her second child and is looking forward to getting back to training soon.

The documentary explores the sport of Muay Thai, including the discipline, sacrifice and teamwork. The bonds between teammates and opponents are celebrated. The four fighters include kids stepping into the ring for the first time to professionals chasing championship belts.

JEMMA SHAMOUN (CLASS OF 2019) AND JAIMEN SHAMOUN 

Earlier this year, Jemma Shamoun (Class of 2019) and her brother, Jaimen Shamoun (current Year 11 student), launched Ramla Body, featuring the world's first sand-repellent moisturiser. The innovative product sold out within an hour of its initial launch!

Jaimen and Jemma featured on the season finale of Shark Tank on Channel 10 last year. They delivered a professional and engaging pitch, gaining the attention of three sharks. After some tense negotiation, they landed a deal with not one but TWO incredible sharks - Maxine Horne and Jane Lu!

Congratulations Jemma and Jaimen! Your journey embodies the spirit of innovation and ambition, inspiring other young people to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.

Follow their journey on their social media! Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @ramlabody.

JO (MARKS) BARON (CLASS OF 1973)

Congratulations to Jo (Marks) Baron, who has been crowned the 2025 B Grade Champion at Rossdale Golf Club! 

It’s always wonderful to see Thistlelonians achieving success in their passions, and Jo’s dedication to golf has brought her a well-deserved victory.

LOCHIE CAREY (CLASS OF 2017)

Lochie Carey (Class of 2017) represented Australia at the 2024 Mr. World Festival in Vietnam.

Lochie is an accomplished model, event producer, video editor, and actor, with a career spanning fashion, events, and entertainment. In 2022, Lochie represented Australia at the Manhunt International competition in the Philippines, where he was announced as the winner. His selection as Mr. World Australia 2024 is a testament to his hard work, and we are proud to see him showcase his talents on the global stage.

We wish Lochie all the best for his future endeavours! You can follow his journey and the results on Instagram account @lochie_carey

DANIELLE MATTHEWS (CLASS OF 2001)

Danielle Matthews (Class of 2001) performed as a Soul Singer in Jesus Christ Superstar at the Princess Theatre this year. She is a celebrated cabaret and recording artist.

Her career highlights include leading roles in musical theatre, national concert performances, television appearances, and singing the National Anthem at the MCG. Danielle is also the Co-artistic Director of the award-winning Choir of Hard Knocks, a popular content creator, and has featured on the in-game soundtracks of major video game franchises.

At McKinnon, Danielle played Velma Kelly in the 2001 school production of Chicago and was a member of the Senior School Leadership team.

Congratulations Danielle! We’re so proud to follow your continued success.

SENATOR JAMES PATERSON (CLASS OF 2005) 

Senator James Paterson (Class of 2005) is a Liberal Senator for Victoria, Shadow Minister for Finance, Government Services, and the Public Service. First elected in March 2016 at age 28, Senator Paterson is the youngest Liberal ever elected to the Senate.

He continues to apply many of the skills and values he developed during his time at McKinnon.

STELLA GOLLAN (CLASS OF 1964) AND MARGARET GOLLAN (CLASS OF 1967)

We are proud to recognise Thistlelonians Stella Gollan (Class of 1964) and Margaret Gollan (Class of 1967), who were members of the 1971 Australian World Championship netball team. Their achievement is part of a historic moment in Australian sport and a lasting inspiration for generations to follow. Read the full article here.

Can you spot them in the photo below?

SU OH (CLASS OF 2014)

Congratulations to Su Oh (Class of 2014) on her victory at the 2025 Vic Open! Battling wild conditions at 13th Beach, with 50 km/h winds sweeping across the course, Su staged a remarkable comeback from seven shots behind to claim the title—securing her third professional win.

A former junior prodigy, Su first qualified for the Australian Open at just 12 years old. After challenges on the LPGA Tour, she has been rebuilding her game under coach Ritchie Smith. 

Next, Su heads to the Epson Tour in the US, aiming to regain her LPGA Tour card. We’re proud to celebrate her perseverance and success! 

ALEX GARDE (CLASS OF 2008) AND TOBY JEDWAB (CLASS OF 2008)

McKinnon Secondary College alumni Alex Garde (Class of 2008) and Toby Jedwab (Class of 2008) first met in the sandpits of Sunnyside Kindergarten. Their bond grew through their years at McKinnon Secondary College and beyond, evolving from childhood friends to lifelong partners.

As Sunnyside Kindergarten marks its 80th anniversary, Alex and Toby’s story is a testament to the lasting connections formed in the McKinnon community.

Source: The Age, 9th March 2025

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