160 years of leadership, legacy and connection
Saturday 9 May saw our community gather at Ormond Hall for a special Founders’ Day Lunch, marking 160 years of Wesley College.
Joined by more than 100 Old Wesley Collegians spanning eight decades – including 36 Golden Lions – the room buzzed as guests reminisced about the last time they had been in the space, whether for a formal, dinner dance or even an examination. Before the event began, some guests also took the opportunity to watch the Girls’ First XVIII Football team in action on the Front Turf, cheering our girls on to a great win.
The focus of the day was celebrating our history through the voices of school captains past and present. MC Isabella Dunwill (OW1996), former Glen Waverley School Captain, opened proceedings and welcomed Principal Nick Evans (OW1985), who reflected on the significance of this milestone year. OWCA President Tom Pewtress (OW2018), also a former Glen Waverley School Captain, addressed the audience on the current priorities of the OWCA Board and officially launched the new OWCA Award, which will celebrate the positive impact of OWs in their community. The ceremony also included the presentation of the newly created Fellow’s pin, recognising the Fellows of the OWCA.
After a delicious lunch, guests turned their attention to an engaging panel discussion featuring acclaimed actors Chris Gabardi (OW1987) and Nicole Nabout (OW1987), the Captain and Vice Captain of Wesley’s first coeducational Year 12 cohort. They were joined by moderator Michael Lindell (OW1962), current Glen Waverley Captain and boarder, Archie, and Elsternwick leaver and current St Kilda Road Captain, Ananya.
Michael guided the conversation through themes of connection, legacy and leadership. Hearing from our current captains alongside the first co-ed captains highlighted the enduring strength of leadership and community across generations.
Ananya spoke with a quiet wisdom, sharing that ‘leadership begins with deep listening – to oneself and others – and that only through truly hearing one another can genuine leadership emerge.’ Archie built on this, emphasising that ‘a strong connection to place, people and community is what anchors and strengthens leadership.’
Chris shared that ‘respect and authentic friendship shaped his own experience,’ recalling his time as part of the first Year 12 coeducational cohort. Nicole added that as the first girls to join, they felt 'warmly welcomed and encouraged to strive for their best.’
Together, Chris and Nicole reflected on how the school’s early commitment to inclusivity and diversity not only shaped their own lives but created a legacy that continues to guide and inspire those who followed.
The afternoon concluded with a rousing rendition of our beloved school songs, accompanied by former staff member, Alex Cameron. Then, in a touching moment, the room turned its attention to Peter Norman OAM (OW1949), who was celebrating his 93rd birthday. As Peter quipped, ‘It’s not every year you have over 100 of your closest friends sing you happy birthday!’
Our 2026 Founders’ Day Lunch was a meaningful reminder of the ways our Golden Lions and wider alumni community remain connected to Wesley College – especially in this milestone 160th year.
Join the Wesley College Community Choir!
Sing, connect and have fun every Wednesday evening during term time in the Stillwell Recital Centre at the St Kilda Road Campus. No experience required – all welcome. Interested? Contact Susie Rodgers-Wilson at susierw52@gmail.com or call 0419 898 933.
