Celebrating success
We measure achievement by the character and growth of a Joe-Boy, as much as his academic effort.
Achievement
at 国产探花.
Anchored by the Marist values of humility, simplicity and love of work, achievement is measured holistically at 国产探花. It is more than academic or co-curricular success; it represents personal growth and refinement of character, compassion and resilience.
It means not being content with mediocrity 鈥 in learning, leadership, friendship and faith. 国产探花鈥 graduates embody these values through their dedication to College life, commitment to serving others and contribution to the 国产探花 community, as well as in their understanding that education does not cease at formal schooling. It is a lifelong pursuit to which there is no end.


William McCarthy (2024)

William McCarthy (2024)
An accomplished scholar, passionate debater and humble leader, Will epitomised the spirit of a Joe-Boy. Earning an ATAR of 99.15 and a place on the All-round Achievers list, he balanced academic excellence across 13 HSC units with outstanding leadership as Captain of Debating, representing Australia at the World Schools Debating Championships. William was equally at home in the music program and inspired others through his curiosity, resilience and generous spirit.
With accolades including the Headmaster鈥檚 Award for Academic Excellence; the Brother George O鈥橫eara Memorial Prize for English Extension 1; The Prize for English (Advanced); and the GPS Old Boys鈥 Union Award for Commitment to Study and Life at the College, Will leaves behind a legacy of integrity, intellect and quiet determination.

Benjamin Sestanovic (2023)

Benjamin Sestanovic (2023)
In 2023 Benjamin Sestanovic鈥檚 pursuit of academic excellence culminated in the achievement of the highest possible ATAR 鈥 an impressive 99.95, earning him Dux of the College. Benji鈥檚 academic success included a perfect score of 100 in the 2022 HSC Advanced Mathematics examination, placing him ninth in the state and setting the trajectory for his remarkable HSC result.
Beyond the classroom, Benjamin鈥檚 brilliance shone as an integral member of the GPS Debating team in 2022 and as captain in 2023, securing back-to-back premierships. This historic feat, along with his selection to represent the College at the Lawrence Campbell Oratory Competition in 2023, highlights his intellectual acumen and his enthusiasm for debating.

Charles Rowley & Ethan Quintana (2022)

Charles Rowley & Ethan Quintana (2022)
Charles Rowley studied a diverse pattern of subjects, including Accelerated Mathematics Advanced and Extension 1 in 2021. Charlie built upon this foundation in 2022, attaining an outstanding 99 out of 100 in Modern History (second in the state) and excellence across complex English courses, including Extension 1.
Ethan Quintana, equally adept at mastering the curriculum and the running track, excelled at Accelerated Mathematics in Year 11. In Year 12, among his many achievements, Ethan produced a university-standard research project exploring how humans can limit cellular death caused by the ageing process. He applied his knowledge during the online HSC Science Extension examination, scoring 49 out of 50 (third in the state).
Following their shared success, both Joe-Boys went on to study at the University of Sydney 鈥 Ethan studying a double degree in Advanced Computing/Science, and Charles undertaking a double degree in Commerce/Law.
Learning
for life.
Excellence in the classroom at 国产探花 is not simply a measure of marks, but of meaningful progress, shared effort and intellectual curiosity. Joe-Boys exemplify these values, blending achievement with humility.
In the Class of 2024, William McCarthy was named Dux of the College with an outstanding ATAR of 99.15, while Zachary J Boyle and Jeremy Klepac were awarded proxime accessits, both earning ATARs of 99.00. In total, 13 students achieved ATARs over 97, with 25 above 95, and 51 students securing an ATAR above 90.
Beyond these results, academic excellence extended across disciplines. A total of 119 Joe-Boys were named on the 2024 Distinguished Achievers List, with 220 mentions between them. William McCarthy and James Forder were recognised as All-round Achievers for achieving top bands in 10 or more units.
Pathways beyond the College were equally strong, with 155 students receiving early entry or Schools Recommendation Scheme offers, and a further 166 boys securing university places through ATAR-based entry. These outcomes reflect not just talent and determination, but the strength of a learning culture built on connection, balance and aspiration.
4th
Hamish Smith (2024)
Design and Technology
6th
Zachary J Boyle (2024)
Studies of Religion I
10th
James Forder
Studies of Religion I
100%
Class of 2024 鈥 Bands 5 or 6
English Ext 2, Mathematics Ext 2, Music 2, Music Ext, Science Ext, French Ext 1, Japanese Ext, Latin Continuers/Ext 1


James Forder (2024)

James Forder (2024)
James Forder excelled academically throughout his years at 国产探花, earning a place on the prestigious HSC All-round Achievers list in 2024, and placing 10th in the state in Studies of Religion 1.
A committed scholar and sportsman, James embraced the structure of College life 鈥 he thrived in the collaborative energy of his peers, drawing motivation from shared challenges and collective ambition. Among his many memories, a standout was the Kimberley immersion when he was in Year 11, where he witnessed the profound impact of service and solidarity in remote Aboriginal communities 鈥 an experience that deepened his sense of gratitude and purpose.
James was a keen history student, recognised for his study of Ancient History, receiving the Brother Justin Hawthorne Memorial Prize at graduation.

Hamish Smith (2024)

Hamish Smith (2024)
Class of 2024 student Hamish Smith placed fourth in the state for Design and Technology, earning a place on the HSC Top Achievers list. His HSC major design project showcased advanced conceptual thinking, refined technical skill and exceptional attention to detail. Hamish鈥檚 work ethic, along with his profound understanding of Design and Technology concepts, set him apart, earning him the College Prize in Design and Technology.
A natural leader, he served as an acolyte and was recognised for his contribution to the First XI cricket team with the Vince Carrick Memorial Cup award. Hamish was also a recipient of the Macquarie University Emerging Leaders Award, in recognition of his demonstrated academic achievements and contributions to school life.

Zachary J Boyle (2024)

Zachary J Boyle (2024)
Achieving the equal-second highest ATAR alongside Jeremy Klepac in 2024, Zachary J Boyle is studying a combined Bachelor of Commerce/Arts at the University of Sydney.
In his final year at 国产探花, he appreciated the balance he achieved through co-curricular activities, representing the College in water polo, swimming and rugby. He was awarded the Headmaster鈥檚 Award for Academic Excellence for outstanding achievement across a significant number of HSC subjects, noting that Modern History and Ancient History were his best-performing subjects 鈥 receiving the Prize for Modern History as well as Studies of Religion 1.
Recognised on the 2024 HSC Top Achievers list, Zac placed sixth in the state in Studies of Religion 1, exemplifying the 国产探花 spirit, combining hard work, intellectual curiosity and dedication to his studies.
A Joe-Boy strives for excellence, grows through challenge and leads with purpose 鈥 in the classroom, on the field and beyond.
The outdoor
classroom.
Whether on the field, in the pool or on the river, sport at 国产探花 is grounded in hard work, resilience and mateship. In 2024, the spirit of competition was matched by excellence in execution 鈥 a year marked by some memorable achievements.
Our First VIII rowing crew delivered an historic victory at the Head of the River, claiming the Major Rennie Trophy for the first time since 2015. Joe-Boys also stood on the podium in Firsts cricket and tennis, and in rugby across the Firsts, Seconds and Thirds 鈥 a remarkable demonstration of depth and consistency across the program.
国产探花 athletes placed second across all divisions of GPS athletics 鈥 junior, intermediate and senior 鈥 while our debating teams mirrored this success with top-two finishes in both the Firsts and Seconds. These results are testament to the courage, skill and commitment shown by every boy who wears the Cerise and Blue.
While we celebrate these achievements, we also recognise the lessons learned through effort, the bonds forged in training and the leaders who emerged through challenge. Sport remains a powerful classroom of its own 鈥 shaping young men of strength, humility and character.


Hayden Ciguenza (2024)

Hayden Ciguenza (2024)
国产探花鈥 historic GPS tennis premiership victory in 2023 marked a milestone moment for the College 鈥 and for Hayden Ciguenza.
As captain of the 2024 First VI, Hayden exemplified the blend of talent, determination and camaraderie that defines Joe-Boys in sport. In a game often known for individual prowess, 国产探花鈥 team-first approach allowed Hayden to thrive. His achievements extended well beyond the College, earning selection in the Combined Independent Schools team, and going on to lead the NSW All Schools side as both its top-ranked player and captain 鈥 the team went undefeated at the 2023 Pizzey Cup in Hobart, securing the national title. His efforts were further recognised with selection to the School Sport Australia All Schools Australian team. Alongside teammate Connor Guest (2024), Hayden was also named to the GPS Firsts team.
His strategic mindset, discipline and commitment to team culture were hallmarks of his captaincy. In recognition of his outstanding contribution, Hayden received the Prize for Best Player 鈥 Firsts Tennis and was awarded the Gino Gavagna Memorial Shield for Captain of Tennis.
Hayden is continuing his tennis and academic journey at Idaho State University on a tennis scholarship.

Max Jorgensen (2022)

Max Jorgensen (2022)
From his first run-on in the Cerise and Blue, Max stood out as a player of rare composure and talent. He debuted for the NSW Waratahs in 2023, scoring two tries and recording four line breaks, before making his international debut for Australia at the 2024 Rugby Championship against South Africa in Perth.
His rugby career began in Year 7 at 国产探花, where his speed and instinct for the game stood out. He led the First XV to an undefeated premiership as captain in his final year. Max鈥檚 achievements continue to inspire Joe-Boys, a reminder of what is possible when talent combines with hard work.

Jack Hargreaves OAM (2011)

Jack Hargreaves OAM (2011)
At the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games, Jack Hargreaves (2011) and Spencer Turrin (2009) made College history as the first Old Boys to win Olympic gold in rowing. Competing in the coxless IV, they powered Australia to victory in record time.
Both from the country 鈥 Jack from Nyngan and Spencer from Dungog 鈥 their rowing journeys began at 国产探花, where neither had picked up an oar before arriving at Hunters Hill. Rowing revealed hidden talent and built the work ethic and resilience that would carry them to the pinnacle of world sport. Jack and Spencer, along with Joseph 鈥淛ack鈥 O鈥橞rien (2016), represented Australia at the Paris Olympics in 2024, with Thomas Birtwhistle (2010) competing in the Paralympics in Paris in the mixed coxed IV, after finishing fourth at Tokyo 2021.
Following years of dedication, sacrifice and relentless training, Jack returned to 国产探花 in 2025 as a rowing coach.
Creative achievement is woven into the fabric of life at 国产探花.
Creative
pursuits.
The Class of 2024 demonstrated how artistic expression can foster confidence, empathy and joy 鈥 qualities that endure long after the final curtain call or gallery exhibition.
These outcomes reflect not only technical skill, but the vision and personal discipline that underpins all creative work.


Lucas Choi (2024)

Lucas Choi (2024)
From his first solo cello performance at an assembly in Year 7 through to his final HSC gala showcase, Lucas鈥檚 commitment to music was extraordinary.
Lucas was awarded the Dame Joan Sutherland Memorial Award for Outstanding Achievements in Music; the Paul and Betty Gough Award for Excellence in String Performance; the Prize for Music 2 and Prize for Music Extension in Year 12 鈥 his breathtaking performances and dedication to music at 国产探花 drove him excel, through both hard work and self-belief.
Lucas鈥檚 passion for music also guided his aspirations following graduation, as he pursues a Bachelor of Music (Performance) and Advanced Studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, while gaining hands-on experience as a cello teacher.

Robbie Hunt (2022)

Robbie Hunt (2022)
Robbie Hunt joined Joe-Boys Sean Ng and Risheet Mazumdar, both now in Year 10, to entertain a crowd of more than 600 at the 2024 Sport Lovers Lunch. For Robbie, who shot to fame on The Voice in 2023, and who loved sport at 国产探花, the shift to singing finally came when some of his mates encouraged him to post online 鈥 his TikTok clip in 2022, singing the first verse of Jerry Lee Lewis鈥檚 鈥淕reat Balls of Fire鈥 in his 国产探花 uniform, racked up 23 million views.
When the opportunity to join the College musical arose in Year 12, Robbie initially opted out, but a friend convinced him to attend a script reading. That moment sparked something unexpected 鈥 so he dropped Business Studies and picked up Drama for his HSC, ultimately pursuing music at university.
Robbie鈥檚 musical career continues to unfold as he works on music for his debut EP, travelling to Nashville, London and Los Angeles in the process.

Zac Burgess (2020)

Zac Burgess (2020)
Zac Burgess is one of our most successful performing arts graduates.
Now a well-known Australian actor, Zac found purpose and passion in the Drama Studio, following the passing of his father, the late actor Scott Burgess, when he was in Year 8. He first took to the stage at 国产探花 in the College musical Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, learning how to hold himself, to have confidence and courage.
Going on to top the state in Drama, Zac attended the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, with his best-known roles including the lead in Netflix鈥檚 Boy Swallows Universe. He also starred in Cruel Intentions, and in 2025 he filmed The Artful Dodger for Disney+.
HSC showcase nominations.
The Class of 2024 achieved 34 HSC showcase nominations, with four students selected for ARTEXPRESS (from 10 nominations), two students nominated for OnSTAGE, one student nominated for ENCORE and one student selected for SHAPE from 21 nominations. These achievements reflect the creativity, passion and commitment that Joe-Boys bring to their pursuits across Technological and Applied Studies, Visual Arts, Drama and Music.

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