Where are they now – Joel Banks (SPC 2000-05)

The College reconnects with Joel Banks (SPC 2000-05) who has travelled extensively overseas for work and has returned to Ballarat as an Agribusiness Executive in the banking sector.

 

Where has life taken you since leaving SPC?

Since leaving St Patrick’s College, I have completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Agri-Business (Farm Management) at Marcus Oldham College in Geelong. I have also been lucky enough to complete several agricultural study tours throughout New Zealand and Canada (where I lived for 12 months), China and the UK looking at various agriculture industries and techniques. I worked as a grain market analyst before joining ANZ and now CBA. After moving around a little, I am now living in Buninyong and working in Ballarat as an Agribusiness Executive. I enjoy spending time on the family farm when I get a chance, playing footy, spending time at the beach with family and friends, riding my mountain bike and diving when I get the chance. I am recently engaged and due to get married in December.

 

What are your favorite memories of your time at St Patrick’s College?

Boat Race, even though I was never a rower. It is one thing I would like to do again if I had my time over again.

Fruit fights with College at the bus stop were always entertaining.

 

Which teacher from your time at SPC had the greatest impact on you? Why?

Mrs White as she taught me how to cook. Howard Clark and his achievements continue to inspire everyone.-

 

How has your education shaped your professional life?

I learnt that I am responsible for my personal results and achievements. If I wasn’t 100% committed or didn’t show some endeavour when things were not going so well I wouldn’t be where I am today.-

 

How has your time at SPC shaped your personal values and your family life?

I learnt to be honest and respectful to yourself and those around you no matter what their background is. Family is always number one.

 

If you could pass on one message to the students of today, what would it be?

Stay in touch with one another and don’t burn any bridges with people you may not get along with during school as you will change as you get older and you never know when you’ll run into these people later in life. Remember to work to live and not live to work!