The Old Paradians Football Club Life Members Lunch on Saturday August 13 was the venue for our most recent Honorary Old Paradians induction. With over 120 in the Frank Mount Club Rooms, Robin Mills and Mike Jolley received this prestigious Old Paradian honour.

Both men were unanimously endorsed by the Old Paradians Association Awards Sub Committee and ratified by the full Committee to receive their Award.

Robin Mills has made a significant contribution to Parade College and the Old Paradians, particularly the Football Club. Schooled at Mildura Technical School, his tireless work as a part of the College Fathers Committee having had 2 sons schooled at the College. The transfer of the Edmund Rice Juniorate to a teaching a learning space was significant, Robin was a constant figure at working bees. Perhaps his contribution to the Old Paradians Football Club as a Committee man from 1985 Vice President under Maurie Considine 1986-1990 where the Club was a force in B and A sections. Robin served as President from 1991-1993. His contribution in project managing the construction of the Frank Mount Social Rooms was outstanding.

Robin is a classic example of servant leadership and we are very proud to honour him as our Honorary Old Paradian for his contribution to the College and Old Paradians Football Club.

Mike Jolley was awarded life membership of the Football Club for his service to the organisation. Mike was schooled at St Bernard's and became a servant at St Damian's Junior Football Club as Treasurer and President over a 6-year period. His contributions to the Old Paradians Football Club extended to club sponsor, and over 13 years served as Club Treasurer including 9 years as President, Mike was able to provide outstanding leadership and stability in his executive roles that fostered strong and fruitful working arrangements with the College, the OPA and the VAFA. During Mike’s tenure, on and off success followed with a turnaround of the club’s finances. In 2015 the Club won its first senior level premiership in 29 years in VAFA Division 2. Mike’s contribution to the football club is difficult to measure.

Mike was also a great servant of the College. Member of the Fathers Committee, College Board and Finance Committee under Principals Br Bond and Br Moore.

We are most proud to honour Mike as an Honorary Old Paradian.