Tenison Woods College has hosted its ‘Shining Light Awards Ceremony’ for the first time in a virtual format.
The awards, which started in 2016, recognise significant contributions made by former students, families or staff to the local and global community in order to inspire current and future students.
Recipients are nominated by community members and short-listed by the Friends of Tenison Woods College (Old Scholars Association).
The awards were cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions and this year the college opted to go online to minimise implications of recipients and guests travelling interstate.
The college focused on hosting a seamless virtual event which was professionally delivered by emcee David Kenseley.
The four outstanding 2021 ‘Shining Light’ recipients showcased were Sunita Gloster (D’Souza) – St Mary’s School, St Paul’s School, Tenison College (1974-1986), Barrie Holmes (dec) – St Paul’s School, Marist Brother’s Agricultural College (1948-1959), Sister Anne Foale – Mater Christi College (1963-1970), Rob Lucas – St Mary’s School, Marist Brother’s Agricultural College (1959-1969).
Short films were produced for each recipient, telling of their incredible journey from their school days to their impressive and inspiring career paths.
“We got together as a family to watch the presentation, which was an absolutely brilliant showcase of the achievements of past scholars,” daughter of recipient Barrie Holmes Marie Holmes said.
“My father’s video was a great tribute to his life and especially his achievements within the school. It really gave people a snapshot into the type of person he was.”
The online event attracted hundreds of viewers, who were captivated by the stories of each recipient. Tuning in from all over the region and the country, viewers made an evening of it, coming together with friends and family.
“I went over to my sister’s place and we enjoyed a lovely dinner and a glass of wine in our Ugg boots,” Tenison Woods College archivist Tory Brett said.
“We thoroughly enjoyed watching the presentation from the comfort of the lounge room, relaxing and reminiscing together. I have many strong connections with the recipients; I attended school with Sister Anne Foale and Sunita Gloster was in my brother’s class.
“My family is also strongly connected to the Holmes family. My favourite part of the presentation was the interaction between the host David Kenseley and the recipients, as it really humanised it for me.”
Principal David Mezinec said in previous years the college had been able to celebrate its Old Scholars and Shining Light Recipients in a gala dinner format.
“Given the situation in NSW and Victoria, we came together as a committee and agreed on adjusting the format of the event, so it was accessible by all,” he said.
“Although there was a great deal of planning involved, we were very happy with how the virtual event ran and we are so grateful the community could still celebrate our incredibly inspiring 2021 recipients.”
