The College recently reconnected with Stephen Bigarelli (SPC 1970-75) who is happily retired after a career in health, education and local government, however it is family and his volunteer work which gives him the most joy and meaning.
Where has life taken you since leaving SPC?
Not that far geographically! I had a short time living in Ararat but since the mid 80’s settled back in Ballarat and still here today. I retired a few years ago after a career in accounting and finance in Health, Education and finally Local Government. I have three children and five grandchildren and recently celebrated 45 years married.
Do you have family ties with SPC?
Not when I attended in the 1970’s but my son (Timothy) attended St Pat’s in the 90’s.
What are your fondest memories of your time at St Patrick’s College?
Probably getting the tram to school in 1970! I got a bike for Christmas that year and then rode to St Pat’s for my final five years. Lining up in alphabetical order for the first day of form (Year) 7 and that’s how I ended up in 7A.
Which teacher from your time at SPC had the greatest impact on you? Why?
Probably Mr Morrie Murphy. He was my first accounting teacher and I credit him with me deciding to study Accounting at the now Federation University.
How has your education shaped your professional life?
The simple values you learnt at St Pat’s stay with you forever. Hard work and care for others are all important.
How has your time at SPC shaped your personal values and your family life?
Besides my professional career I had and still have a strong volunteering ethos. I was National Treasurer of Apex Australia and later Chair of the Apex Foundation as well as being part of many other not-for-profit organisations in a volunteer capacity.
If you could pass on one message to the students of today, what would it be?
Don’t be defined by what job or career you have, it’s what you do away for work with family and friends that defines you.
