At the conclusion of the 2026 school year, Loyola College will farewell more than a graduating Year 12 student. It will mark the end of an extraordinary family journey that has spanned 21 years, ten siblings and countless memories.

The Brennan family's connection with our school began in 2005 when their eldest child Catherine commenced at the College. Since then, ten children have proudly worn our school uniform, participated in College life and contributed to the vibrant community that has become a second home for the family.

Now, with the youngest sibling, Benjamin (12/CJBO), preparing to graduate, a remarkable chapter in both the family's story and our school’s history is coming to a close.

For the youngest Brennan, being the final sibling to attend our school carries special significance.

"It feels really special and a little surreal," Ben said. "Loyola has been a part of my family's story for more than two decades, so being the last of ten siblings to come through the College feels like the end of an era. I've grown up hearing stories from my brothers and sisters about their experiences here, and it's been meaningful to follow in their footsteps while also creating my own memories."

Across 21 years, the family has experienced almost every aspect of College life. There have been Mother's and Father's Day Breakfasts, Year 7 Family Picnics, Year 12 Celebrations, countless Sporting Carnivals and more Graduation Ceremonies than most families could imagine. In addition, Dad (Chris) spent time on the Loyola College Board (now School Advisory Council) whilst also coaching our school’s Athletics Relay Teams.

At one point, four Brennan children attended Loyola simultaneously for six consecutive years. "You couldn't help but run into a Brennan," Mum, Helen recalls. "We almost had every year level covered."

While the family's connection has been built on education, it has also been strengthened through friendships, shared values and a strong sense of belonging.

"Our family has been fortunate enough to have been involved in such a welcoming and vibrant community at Loyola College over the past 21 years," Helen reflects said. "Our children have benefited greatly from the support and encouragement given to them by their teachers. The emphasis on striving to do your best and providing a foundation for success has paid dividends, with all of them now enjoying excellent careers across a wide variety of fields."

Ben believes his family's greatest gain from our school extends well beyond the classroom. "I think we've gained much more than an education. Loyola has given our family a strong sense of community, lifelong friendships and values that have stayed with us beyond school. Through the College's focus on service, compassion and personal growth, each of us has learned the importance of contributing to something bigger than ourselves."

Sport has also been a defining feature of the Brennan story.

Across football, cricket, hockey, athletics and cross country, members of the family have represented our school with distinction, although according to Helen "swimming was definitely not in the Brennan genes!"

Our College community proudly celebrated many of those achievements over the years. Among the highlights were Catherine's (CDAM) remarkable victory in the 2008 Stawell Gift at just 15 years of age, Monica's (CTFO) journey to the World Youth Athletics Championships in France and later the Rio Olympic Games, and Nicholas (CLGM) receiving a Loyola Sports Grant to support his participation in the Under-19 National Cricket Championships.

The family's sporting legacy also includes Catherine, Monica and Gabrielle (CIKE) representing Loyola College as members of the victorious All Schools State Athletics Championships 4x100 Metre Relay Team.

For the Brennan family, these moments were made even more meaningful by the unwavering support of our Loyola community. "Loyola were always very generous in showing their support whenever one of our children achieved something special,” recalls Helen.

Yet, while the achievements are significant, it is the relationships that have endured.

"The everlasting friendships they now enjoy with their former classmates is a testament to the school instilling in them the importance of showing respect and support for others," she reflected.

As Ben prepares to graduate later this year, there is a shared sense of gratitude for the role our school has played in shaping the lives of all ten children.

"We are very proud of our children, who have grown to be wonderful adults. We thank the dedicated staff for creating a positive and supportive learning environment. Loyola College has played a major role in our children's education, and we are very thankful to have been part of such a wonderful school."

And while farewells are never easy, the Brennan family has found a way to approach this milestone with a positive outlook…"Paying our final school fees! I'm pretty sure by now we own at least one of the school buildings!"

While the family's story is filled with great memories, it also represents something much deeper about the enduring relationships that define our school community. After 21 years, ten children and an immeasurable contribution to the life of Loyola College, the Brennan family leaves behind a legacy that will long be remembered.

On behalf of the entire Loyola College community, we extend our sincere thanks to the Brennan family for their loyalty, involvement and support over the past two decades. While this chapter may be coming to an end, the friendships, memories and connections forged throughout their Loyola journey will remain part of the College community for many years to come.