Tristan Cole — Yule Brook & Sevenoaks Academy, Class of 2005
Tristan is one of many alumni who have chosen to stay connected with Clontarf long after finishing school. His journey spans trade qualifications, 16 years in FIFO, business ownership and now a return to Clontarf, at Northam Academy, supporting young men in the same way he was once supported.
Letter — in Tristan’s own words
“My name is Tristan Cole, and I am writing this letter to express my strong support and belief in the Clontarf Foundation and the life-changing impact it continues to have on young Indigenous men across Australia.
My journey with Clontarf began as a student, where the program helped me discover who I was and what I was capable of achieving. I wasn’t the best student, but Clontarf gave me a reason to stay engaged at school and helped me unlock my identity, confidence, and potential. The support, encouragement, and values the Foundation instilled in me laid the foundation for everything I’ve achieved since.
After finishing school, I went on to complete my trade as a Heavy Diesel Mechanic. I then spent over 16 years working FIFO in the mining and resource industry, gaining valuable skills, discipline, and experience. Throughout those years, I stayed connected with Clontarf through its alumni network, volunteering my time to give back and mentor younger Indigenous men who were walking the same path I once did.
The lessons and values I learned through Clontarf never left me they guided me through every stage of my career and life. With the confidence and leadership skills I gained, I also went on to start my own eco-friendly cleaning business, Mooditj Services, which has grown successfully and continues to operate today.
Recently, I made the decision to step away from my FIFO career to return to where it all began joining Clontarf as an Operations Officer. This role allows me to give back in a deeper way, working directly with young Indigenous men and supporting them to see their potential just like Clontarf once did for me.
I have experienced the Clontarf Foundation from every level as a student, an alumni volunteer, and now as a staff member and I can confidently say that it is one of the most impactful programs in Australia. The work Clontarf does not only changes lives but also strengthens families, communities and future generations.
I align closely with Clontarf’s core values of respect, commitment and integrity, and I use them every day in my work, in my business, and in raising my children. I fully support and back the Clontarf Foundation 100%, as I have personally witnessed and lived the positive outcomes it creates.
Without Clontarf, I wouldn’t be the person, mentor, father or business owner I am today. It’s a program that truly transforms lives and continues to be a driving force for change in Indigenous communities across the country.”
