Mentonian Awards

Each year, members of The Mentonians Committee gather together with members of the Mentonians Clubs to acknowledge service, excellence, friendship and of course Club and team spirit.

It is a time to acknowledge and celebrate the successes of our Mentonians and Club members and present a number of important awards including the Tony Drinan Medal, Honorary Mentonians and Life Patrons which is presented at a special event.

In addition, the TMA Committee review applications for two important Club awards and a decision is made to award singular, or on occasion, joint awards:

Club Person of the Year

Mentonians Clubs submit nominations for the person considered to have made an outstanding contribution to their Club during the season.

Sports Person of the Year

Mentonians Clubs submit nominations for the person considered to be the most outstanding contributor on the field or court.

Foundation PhD Scholarship​

The Mentone Grammar Foundation provides the opportunity for Mentonians to apply for a grant of up to $15,000 to assist with the pursuit of Doctoral studies. The Mentonians Association and broader Mentone Grammar community proudly supports our students to continue to ‘dream big’ long after they leave school.

Young Mentonian of the Year

This Award recognises Mentonians, 35 years and under, who are making a difference in the community in Australia and/or overseas through outstanding contributions within their professional field or through their passions.

Applications have now closed for 2024.

The 2024 winner will be announced at the Mentone Grammar Founders’ Day Service on 3 March 2025.

Tony Drinan Medal​

As a perpetual memorial to an exceptional Mentonian and to recognise the accomplishments of former Mentone Grammar students, the prestigious ‘Tony Drinan Medal’ is awarded each year to a past student who, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, has achieved outstanding success, bringing honour to the School and service to the community.

The 2024 Drinan Medal was awarded to Professor James Oxley (Class of 1970) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to both Mentone Grammar and mathematics.

Life Patrons​

Life Patrons are elected by The Mentonians Committee in recognition of outstanding service to the Association and/or its affiliated Clubs over at least 15 years. This includes past students, current and past staff and members of the broader community – we recognise all those who have shown such dedication and commitment.

The 2022 Life Patron was awarded to longstanding staff member, Trevor Stevens for his commitment to the Mentonians for over 35 years.

Honorary Mentonians​

The Mentonians Association is proud of our great school and our Mentonians Clubs. We are acutely aware that organisations do not become great without outstanding staff and loyal volunteers.

Through the dedication and commitment of School staff and Club volunteers over many years, Mentone Grammar has achieved the enviable position it finds itself in today – a sought-after, highly regarded school with an outstanding reputation, supported by a strong community of dedicated alumni, parents and friends.

Each year staff achieving 10 years of service are invited to become Honorary Mentonians. Our Clubs also submit nominations to The Mentonians Association Committee to recognise eligible members who have provided outstanding service to be considered for Honorary Mentonian status.

CONTACT US

If you wish to find out more about The Mentonians Association awards program or nominate someone for an award, we would love to hear from you. Please get in touch with the TMA President:

Jonathan Ponnusamy, TMA President