A Golden Memory - Senior Formal

Amongst the abundance of memorable experiences shared within the College, there is one standout event that sees the Lauries Seniors through their IA1’s – the Senior Formal. After a challenging exam block preceded by a busy term of interruptions such as Cyclone Alfred, the boys managed to pull through and emerge from the commotion of Term 1 in their expertly selected suits and tuxes like something out of a James Bond scene. With the previous excitement of Semi Formal still in the air, the boys were itching to don their formal attire once again and enjoy a night of laughter,
dancing and memories.

And that they did!

After the exciting flutter of pre-formals, the men and their dates arrived at the Convention Centre, pouring out of their respective party busses, limousines and otherwise sweet rides. As they all made their way into the venue, the boys’ style was outshone by their beautiful dates and the boys were left fighting for the photographers’ attention. Everyone looked dapper and each couple was able to get a photo before saying goodbye to their parents and heading in. 

Our College Captains - Luca Ellero, Charlie Taylor and Billy Rowan welcomed the boys and their dates in their usual steadfast and composed manner and expressed their immense gratitude on behalf of the cohort for the time and effort put in by the amazing staff and the Engagement and Wellbeing portfolio. After the housekeeping, the boys escorted their dates to their tables and soon found meals being whisked in front of them at record speeds by the fabulous BCEC staff. Needless to say, the food was divine and all attendees were grateful to be able to share the meal while having light-hearted conversation and laughs with their mates and dates. However, as dinner came to end, the lights darkened, the DJ turned up the music and the real party began.

There was a chorus of squeaking chairs as the boys and their dates raced to the dance floor, eager to show off their magnificent dance moves. A mosh pit quickly formed around the DJ booth and the discordant sound of hundreds of boys screaming lyrics echoed around the room. 12 years of schooling all became worth it when the men and their dates were graced with Mr Knight’s angelic vocals and there is no question as to who the best dancer of the 2025 cohort is. The mosh pit soon expanded into a circle as many boys competed in what appeared to be a dance battle. It was touching to see the men quite literally dance like nobody is watching and see everyone gathered in unified and brotherly celebrations. 

The rest of the night flew by in a blur. As expected, the boys conducted themselves as typical Lauries gentlemen and made the most of such a treasured occasion. As the final chord of the last song rung out, the cohort felt a collective rush of bittersweet feelings – disappointed the night was over but immeasurably grateful for the experience they’d shared. They left with wide smiles, hoarse voices and memories they’ll cherish forever. The 2025 Senior Formal was truly a night to remember and will hold special memories by all who attended for decades to come. 

This is thanks to the masterful hosting of the Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre and of course, all who poured their heart and soul into making the Senior Formal a memorable night, namely Mr Knight, Mr Burridge and Mr Pike. The Engagement and Wellbeing Prefects: Morgan Oiso, Nate Bainbrigge and Harry Fox, also deserve a huge thanks for the time and effort they put into organising the table allocations, music and food requirements. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough space to thank each individual member involved in the organisation of this great night, but our sincerest thanks are extended to all who were involved in making the Senior Formal such a magnificent occasion. Your hard work did not go unnoticed. You have all formed a golden memory that we will cherish for years after we leave St Laurence’s College for the last time.