OHA

We were thrilled to announce at the Founders Day Assembly in February that Adam Elliot (OH 1989) was awarded the 2024 OHA Medal, the OHA’s highest honour in recognition and appreciation of exceptional achievement to the community beyond expectation in their field of endeavour.  

Adam is an Academy Award® winning animation writer and director who has always based himself in his hometown of Melbourne. His animated films are what he calls ‘clayographies’ which are clay animated biographies based on the bittersweet lives of his family and friends. 

After graduating from the Victorian College of the Arts in 1996, Adam has created seven animated films that have been voiced by some of the world’s leading actors. His breakthrough came with his film Harvie Krumpet, which won the 2004 Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film, cementing Adam’s place on the international stage. 

Adam’s contributions to animation continue to be recognised globally. In 2025, he received his second Academy Award nomination, for his feature film, Memoir of a Snail. The film centres on Grace Pudel, a lonely hoarder of ornamental snails who lives in Canberra, and stars Sarah Snook, Jacki Weaver, Eric Bana and Kodi Smit-McPhee as the main characters. The Academy Award nomination further solidifies Adam’s legacy in the industry. His dedication to handcrafted storytelling and unique visual style has made him a pioneer in stop-motion animation, inspiring filmmakers worldwide. Today, Adam remains a passionate advocate for independent cinema, championing stories that celebrate life’s imperfections with heart and humour. 

Adam joins an illustrious list of Old Haileyburians to have been awarded the OHA’s most prestigious award. 

Congratulations Adam. 

The OHA is thrilled to announce the launch of OHA Rewards, an exciting new initiative for 2025 designed to give back to our valued alumni while supporting businesses owned by fellow Haileyburians. 

If you are a Haileyburian who owns a business, OHA Rewards is an excellent opportunity to increase visibility and attract customers from the alumni network. Becoming a participating merchant is quick and simple. Plus, it is free to join. 

Spotlight: Clint Waters (OH 1995)  

Clint Waters, Director of Axton Finance and a proud member of the Class of 1995, is among the first alumni to embrace the OHA Rewards program. With over 20 years of experience in the mortgage broking industry and having settled over $1 billion in mortgage lending, Clint is excited to offer exclusive deals to fellow Haileyburians through this initiative. 

To learn more about OHA Rewards or to become a participating merchant, please contact the OHA team at stayconnected@haileybury.com.au. 

Embrace the benefits of being part of the Haileybury alumni community with OHA Rewards — where connections lead to savings and support for fellow alumni businesses.  

We have listened to our young alumni and are proud to announce our second new initiative for 2025 — the OHA Alumni Internship program. 

The OHA Alumni Internship program aims to support Old Haileyburians who are currently undertaking tertiary studies or have recently completed an undergraduate degree. By connecting them with workplaces within the Haileybury network, the program facilitates the development of essential skills, fosters professional relationships and enhances employability. 

If you would like to become a host business, we would love to hear from you. Please sign up here today. Your involvement can make a significant difference in the professional journey of an aspiring Old Haileyburian. 

The OHA Alumni Internship program is more than just an internship; it is a commitment to nurturing talent, fostering community and ensuring that the legacy of Haileybury continues to thrive through our alumni. 

The hallowed halls of the University of Cambridge await Economics student, Isabella Zhang (OH 2024), who is one of Haileybury’s latest graduates to continue her studies overseas. 

Since 1209, the University of Cambridge has educated some of the world’s greatest thinkers and innovators — from Sir Isaac Newton and pioneering computer scientist, Alan Turing, to Stephen Hawking, Charles Darwin, Dame Emma Thompson and renowned primatologist, Dame Jane Goodall.  

The world’s third oldest university also beckons for Isabella, with the Haileybury graduate packing her bags to depart for the UK this year.  

Isabella will read Economics at Cambridge after being part of a growing cohort of female students who are choosing to study Economics at Haileybury. 

“I think my choice to study Economics has partly been influenced by the fact that I was born in Shanghai, which is a very commercial city, and my parents work in commerce,” says Isabella.  

“During COVID-19 I also started my own online business selling jade jewellery and that experience has helped me realise that the commercial world offers unlimited possibilities.” 

Isabella began buying and selling jade jewellery online when she was in Year 8 and she has continued to run her business, only pausing temporarily to prepare for her VCE examinations. The experience of buying and selling has given her real-world insights into business management, the production chain, balance sheets, marketing and labour relations. Isabella is committed to only working with ethical factories and ensuring that employees in the industry are safe from exploitation and unfair work practices. 

“I’m fascinated by jade because it is naturally formed, so each piece of jade jewellery is unique. I spent most of my pocket money buying different pieces and when I ran out of money, I decided to sell some pieces so I could buy new items. That’s when I realised there are quite good profits in jade and that I had the foundations of a business,” says Isabella. 

“I’ve learnt a lot about the jade industry and the commercial world, and that sparked my interest in studying economics.” 

Isabella, who joined Haileybury in Year 10, says the School has been instrumental in igniting her interest in economics and in helping her to achieve her dream of studying overseas.  

“Haileybury has been a significant part of my life — if I hadn’t studied there, I may not have got the results I needed to take me to Cambridge. I have amazing memories of the School and so many people supported me and helped me to achieve my best,” she says. 

As she prepares to settle into life in England, Isabella is already planning for the future and hopes to complete a post-graduate degree or find an internship in the world of economics.  

The club celebrated its tenth anniverary in October 2024 with a family day at the river and the naming of our latest boat. The racing coxless quad was named the A M H Aikman in honour of former Haileybury Principal Michael Aikman (1956 Olympic medalist) who introduced rowing to the School. The club is also named in his honour. Amongst the attendees were his son Alasdair and grandchildren Imogen and Cameron who have all represented the School in rowing. 

Since the end of Covid-19 the club has been on a growth journey and this has seen our numbers increase from a handful of active members to around 60 covering juniors, seniors and masters. 

The club consists of three squads being Recreational, Competition and Learn to Row as well as our supporters. There are plenty of vacancies for new members in any of the squads and supporters are always welcome.  

Return 2 Rowing

Have you rowed in the past? Then we need you. 

Concerned about the level and intensity of rowing? Not a problem. You set your own levels. 

Don’t want to be locked into sessions? You decide when to row and for how long. 

Come by yourself or bring a group to get on the water. 

Do not want to go racing? Not a problem. Join the recreational squad for like-minded rowers. 

Learn 2 Row

Have not rowed before? Then you are welcome to join our L2R squad and we will get you to up and about in no time. 

Just looking to some general fitness and the social aspect of the Club? Then talk to us. 

Squads are now in winter training for the 2025–26 season with an expectation that we will return to racing next season. 

For more info email:  secretary@aikman.club or sms 0412 885 801  

Visit our website www.aikman.club or Facebook/Aikmanclub   

Alternatively, join us Sunday morning from 7.00 am at the National Water Sports Centre, Riverend Road, Bangholme.  

Additional sessions on Wednesday mornings and Thursday afternoons. 

Paul Diggerson  

The OHA Aerobics squad has been training with focus and determination in preparation for their first competition of the season, taking place on 17 and 18 May. Their sights are firmly set on qualifying for the National Championships in September. In an exciting milestone for the program, this year marks the first time in OHA Aerobics history that two teams are aiming to qualify for the World Championships, to be held in Prague, Czechia this October. 

Following the incredible success of our international team, who took home gold at Nationals in 2024, we are hopeful they can build on that momentum, defend their national title, and secure a place on the world stage. 

This year, we are proud to have three strong entries in the FISAF Aerobics competition: 

Adult International Petite Fitness Team: Jessie Curtain (OH 2014), Olivia Jenkins (OH 2016), Emma Broadbent (OH 2019), Ashlyn Scott (OH 2026) and Annabelle Stray.
Adult International Trio: Jessie Curtain (OH 2014), Olivia Jenkins (OH 2016) and Annabelle Stray.
Adult National Petite Fitness Team: Ash Stafford (OH 2016), Taylah Miranda (OH 2017), Amy McCulloch (OH 2020), Tara Traficante (OH 2022), Steph Liddell (OH 2024) and Sarah DeGregorio. 

We are incredibly proud of the dedication shown by these athletes and look forward to cheering them on as they represent OHA Aerobics at the highest level. Good luck to all competitors as the 2025 season begins. 

Jessie Curtain (OH 2014) 

After a slow start to the season, Old Haileybury Cross Country has had some strong recent results. David Bayley (OH 2010) has been outstanding, returning to form following an injury that interrupted 2024. His win in the Churchill Park 12km event was the highlight of the season thus far. In the Dyson relays at the famous tan track, our men’s division 2 team finished a close third and our first women’s team to represent the club in a few years finished in ninth. Leon Davis, just nine years of age, blazing around the 3.82km lap in a remarkable 14:55, was the standout run of the day. With a number of new members, we hope to continue building on early season success. Please contact Andrew Scott via andrewscott2011@gmail.com if you have an interest in running and would like to get involved in a competition that caters for all ages and ability levels.

Andrew Scott (OH 1990) 

The Old Haileyburians Amateur Football Club has had a thrilling and highly successful start to the season, with all areas of our football program showing tremendous growth and promise. 

Our U19s remain undefeated after six rounds in Division 1, marking an outstanding beginning to their campaign. Under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Anthony Wright and assistant coach Luke Hardeman, the squad has become a close-knit unit, playing for each other week in and week out. Their continued development sets a strong foundation for what promises to be an exciting era ahead, as the future of our club grows stronger with every match. 

Our women’s program, The Hearts, continues to thrive with energy, enthusiasm and fun while delivering some fantastic football. Despite being a young and relatively inexperienced team, we are witnessing their remarkable progression. Under the leadership of head coach David Lappage, with the invaluable support of Paul Zahra and Liam Stocker, we are strengthening our depth, and the team is blossoming into a side we believe will be a force to be reckoned with. 

In the men’s football program, we are proud to be competing in Premier Division, the highest tier in the Victorian Amateur Football Association (VAFA). A strong emphasis has been placed on the development side (formerly known as our reserves), ensuring standards, depth and a competitive game style align seamlessly with the senior team. There is a unified approach — one program, two teams — which has been critical to building a competitive and cohesive environment. David Connell has played a pivotal role in setting the standards and crafting a team capable of thriving at Premier Level, and his leadership, alongside the efforts of the players, has driven significant progress this season. 

Our men’s senior side sits inside the top four after six rounds, competing fiercely with the best in VAFA football. The team has built a reputation as a tough and relentless side that opponents find hard to break down, underpinned by an unwavering attitude and a game style that holds up against strong opposition. This success is a testament to the exceptional work of head coach Daniel Ward and his assistant coaches Brett Lynch, Brede Seccull and David Connell. The groundwork is firmly laid for an exciting remainder of the season. 

Meanwhile, our newly appointed Director of Coaching Shane Watson is doing a superb job overseeing the football program. Bringing extensive experience from playing at the highest level with Collingwood, and coaching roles at Carlton and North Melbourne, Shane’s expertise is proving invaluable in shaping the future of the club. 

Beyond the field, we continue to foster a strong, inclusive culture built around creating an environment that is supportive, welcoming, safe and respectful. The committee maintains a clear focus on five key strategic areas: football, revenue, culture, engagement and player wellbeing and support. Everything we do is viewed through the lens of continuous improvement, as we work towards a vision that extends beyond football, we aim to be a thriving community where everyone feels a sense of belonging. 

We encourage all members of the Haileybury family to come down, embrace the club culture, experience our incredible community and enjoy watching some fantastic football. 

This is your club. Together, it is our club, and through our collective efforts, we will continue to grow and build a community we all take pride in. 

See you at the footy. Go Bloods and Hearts. 

Matthew Armstrong (OH 1988) 

Our team in Women’s Metro 1 South grade, which won the premiership in the grade last winter (2024), has continued its good form again this winter season, including defeating the previously undefeated ladder leader, Mentone. The team is consistently in the top four on the ladder again this season, and on track for another finals campaign in September. 

Our team in Men’s Metro 2 South is enduring some hard-fought losses this winter, with the occasional win and some wonderful milestones — 650 games for John Bishop (OH 1983) and 300 games for Jamie Harris (OH 1995 and former School Captain). 

Join in the excitement of hockey — come along to play or support. Each team has nine home matches during the season of 18 matches, played on the School hockey fields at Keysborough, including seven double-headers, so lots of opportunities to get involved. New players of all ages and grades are most welcome, to keep our teams on the field. Above all, we enjoy playing the game with our teammates. 

Get in touch with the hockey Bloods via the OHA website, the OHAHC website or else email ohahockeyclub@gmail.com.  We would love to hear from you. 

Clark Anstis (OH 1975) 

On behalf of the Old Haileybury Bowls Club Committee, I would like to congratulate all members on a successful, memorable and what some might say, a historic 2024–25 bowls season. 

The 2025 season for OHBC was extremely successful on several fronts. We are excited for the future of this wonderful club that is supported by so many wonderful people. 

In our latest year, the club has enjoyed significant progress and achievements which I am pleased to outline for our members in this Annual Report on behalf of the entire committee. 

Our club continues to thrive thanks to the significant contributions of many dedicated individuals. On behalf of all our members, I extend our heartfelt thanks to the OHA Council and Russell Davidson for their ongoing and generous support over the years. Their financial assistance, particularly during our foundation years, has been instrumental in helping us reach key milestones and grow our membership base. 

We are also grateful to Cheltenham Bowls Club and Russell Bingham (OH 1968) for their continued backing and collaboration. It is a privilege for us to support the Cheltenham Bowls Club in return. 

A sincere thank you goes to our OHBC committee members Scott Doran (OH 1984), Andrew Bonwick (OH 1988), Ian Clydesdale (OH 1977), Roger Gerny (OH 1977), Andrew Penaluna (OH 2004) and Peter Jacob for their dedication and tireless efforts on behalf of the club. Special recognition is also due to Jim Bonwick (OH 1967) for his contribution and support across both clubs. 

At this time, I would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank three committee members who are stepping down from their roles: Pete Jacob (General), Roger Gerny (General & Selection) and Andrew Penaluna (General, Selection and Coaching). Each of them has made valuable contributions across multiple areas of the club, helping to shape the strong and vibrant community we are proud to be part of today. Their dedication and service have played a key role in creating the club environment we all enjoy. 

Thank you to everyone who played, participated in, or supported our teams and events last year. Your enthusiasm, team spirit and commitment to both the club and the sport have been truly inspiring. You have helped foster a vibrant environment filled with camaraderie, enjoyment and a shared drive for continuous improvement. Here’s to another successful year ahead. 

Go Bloods in 2025–26!  

Mark Thompson (OH 1982) 

We are excited to announce that we are now the newest OHA Club.  

So far, we have explored stunning spots like the tranquil Karkarook Lake and Wetlands, the scenic Bayside Boardwalk, and the picturesque Merricks to Red Hill Trail. After each walk, we gather for a relaxing coffee, kindly provided by the OHA. 

But walking is not just about exercise — it is also about building friendships and connecting with nature. Our Walking Club meets monthly at various beautiful, energising locations (we take a break over the chilly winter months). Every walk is an opportunity to meet new people, enjoy great conversations and experience the joy of being outside. 

Walking is a great way to boost both your physical and mental wellbeing. Not only will you get some fresh air and exercise, but you will also have the chance to make lasting memories and meaningful connections. And here is the best part: we welcome everyone, including your furry friends. 

So, why not step into a healthier, happier lifestyle with us? Whether you are looking to meet new people, get active, or simply enjoy a beautiful walk, the OHA Walking Club is for you. Sign up today via Join a Club – Old Haileyburians Association. 

Keep an eye on OHA socials and our monthly newsletter for details on the next walk, or email stayconnected@haileybury.com.au for more information. 

Kylie Phillips