29 May 2026
This week marked Reconciliation Week, with the 2026 theme, All In. This theme is particularly poignant for us as a school community. We were fortunate to welcome Daniel Motlop to our Muster, where he shared his knowledge and insights into the importance of reconciliation in Australia.
Among the many powerful messages Daniel conveyed, one stood out clearly: his greatest achievements have not come from his successful AFL career, but from his work beyond football. His contributions to reconciliation and his entrepreneurial ventures highlight what is possible when passion and purpose align. Importantly, Daniel did not speak of blame; rather, he expressed pride in contributing positively to Australia. His message was clear, we are all in this together. His reflections remind us of the opportunities we are afforded in this country and reinforce the idea that Australia should be a home for all who live here.
That message was reflected in other moments across the week, including time spent with Uncle John as our winter sports first teams received their Indigenous playing tops. It was a reminder that reconciliation is not confined to a single muster, speaker or event. It is built through listening, learning and showing respect for culture and Country. For our boys, wearing those tops this week carries a responsibility beyond the game itself. It asks them to represent the School with awareness, humility and a sense of connection to something larger than themselves.
The notion of being “All In” also resonates strongly within our own School community. Over recent weeks, a number of activities and events have required this shared commitment. In truth, by being part of the St Peter’s College community, all families are choosing to be “All In”. Whether through our academic and pastoral programs, co-curricular sports, or outdoor education experiences, families are supporting a model of education that extends well beyond the classroom. St Peter’s College offers a broad, liberal education, one that challenges, stretches and ultimately shapes young people in meaningful ways.
Recently, we enjoyed a wonderful community day at our annual House Swimming Carnival. I recognise that not everyone finds joy in swimming. In fact, I vividly remember my Year 4 PE teacher saying to me, in front of my peers, “You are much safer on land than in the water.” That comment stayed with me for many years. Rather than discouraging me, it became motivation to improve and persevere. While I never became the strongest swimmer, my parents ensured I did not opt out. They encouraged me to be “All In” in every aspect of my education.
I share this story because, despite the success of last week’s carnival, it was disappointing to see a number of boys and families choose not to attend. Of course, there are always students absent due to illness or personal circumstances, and we fully understand that. However, this was not the case for all. Choosing to opt out reflects a mindset that sees school as transactional, rather than as a shared experience and commitment to something greater than the individual.
Those who missed the day missed something special. I witnessed Houses cheering passionately for their swimmers, students leading chants until they lost their voices, and boys who found swimming challenging stepping up and giving their best. They were truly “All In”, and it is this spirit that makes our community so strong.
My challenge to all boys and families is simple: commit to being “All In”. While this theme has clear relevance to the life of our School, its place within National Reconciliation Week is important. It reminds us of the value of listening, learning and contributing to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. From there, it also invites us to reflect on what it means to be fully part of any community, including our own. Let us continue to build a school community defined not by convenience or transaction, but by connection, shared purpose and collective effort; one that lives out our values of truth, respect and service. Together, we can ensure that St Peter’s College remains a place where every individual contributes to something enduring, meaningful and powerful.
David Nolan
Deputy Headmaster / Head of Senior School
