Every year at Valete, we recognise residents who have gone above and beyond to participate in College life, making the culture of Burgmann and our communal experience brighter and better for all. College Dean Monte Nathan presented the 2025 College Awards to these outstanding residents during Valete 2025.
Claudia Zybenko, recipient of the 2025 Principal's Award for Overall Excellence
'Claudia has demonstrated outstanding commitment to her studies over her time at college. With not only a perfect GPA and spotless academic record, Claudia is always the first person to put her hand up to help other with their academics. Beyond this, Claudia is a frequent contributor to the College, particularly in her ongoing contributions at the highest level to our Inward Bound efforts. For her outstanding academic and community contributions, Claudia Zybenko receives the Principal's Award for Overall Excellence.'
Eloise Rudge, recipient of the 2025 Brett Ringland Award for Outstanding Contribution to BRA
'Always the first setting up every event and the last to pack down, Eloise has been an outstanding contributor to the college this year. She always goes above and beyond for the residents association, and does it all without wanting thanks or recognition. A true servant leader, and a role model to all residents.'
Thomas Henchliffe, recipient of the 2025 John Dauth Award for First Year Contribution to College
'Despite arriving unexpectedly a few days late in N-Week, Thomas quickly became a key part of the community at College. Throughout the year, Thomas was seen putting his hand up for absolutely everything and approaching every challenge with a smile. From putting in the hard yards as an IB Endpoint coordinator, representing Burgmann in the IAC Talent Show, stage managing and being the technical wizard of the Burg Play, placing on the podium for debating, and finally being arguably the best DJ at College, Thomas is unbelievably deserving of the John Dauth Award for First Year Contribution to College.'
Gabrielle Rose, recipient of the 2025 Glen Downey Award for Outstanding Contribution to College
'There is no one more deserving of this award than Gabby Rose. Gabby is the person that always shows up for residents. She is always the person manning the BBQ, always checking in on the First-Years, and when someone needs to borrow a car, needs a lift to work, or someone to seek advice from, it is always Gabby. And Gabby does all of this without a formal leadership title. Yet to me, Gabby is one of the most important leaders and role models that this College has seen.'
Gretel O'Brien, recipient of the 2025 The Callum Fryer College Spirit Award
'Gretel O'Brien has been a constant presence this year, at every sport game, on every sidelines and always showing up to organise and cheer. Even when she was injured throughout the year, you could still see Gretel making posts to announcements to rally residents to attend games. For her commitment to the sporting culture at Burgmann, her overall commitment to the College and her constant presence around the community, this award goes to Gretel.'
