2026 Secondary Interhouse Cross-Country Carnival

The carnival bears the name of Fr Gaetan Pereira SJ, who served as Chaplain at John XXIII College from 2007 to 2012. A self-described 'marathon maniac’, Fr Gaetan was a constant presence on our grounds during his years here – available to students, staff and parents alike, and known for encouraging those who sought him out to sit with their questions rather than rush for answers. It is fitting that a man of such energy and pastoral warmth should have a running carnival in his honour.

Students competed across both the main race and novelty events, with strong participation and real House pride on display throughout the day. The atmosphere was a reminder that how we compete matters as much as the result.

Loreto House claimed both major honours – taking home the Fr Gaetan Pereira Cup as overall carnival winner, and the Spirit Award for outstanding cheering and support. It was a deserving double, earned as much in the stands as on the course.

Results

Congratulations to all place-getters, and well done to every student who took part.

We extend our sincere thanks to Head of Sport, Ms Jessica Pillera, and Assistant Head of Sport, Mr Darren Kowal, for their exceptional organisation of the event, and to all staff who gave their time to marshal, train and support students in the lead-up and on the day. A warm thank you also to our amazing parent volunteers who generously provided staff with a BBQ lunch – a gesture very much in the John XXIII spirit of community.