Formal Hall welcomes Chris Garnaut for address on character, resilience and vocation

On Thursday, 19 March, students, staff and guests gathered in the Grand Hall for Formal Hall, where Australian investment leader Chris Garnaut delivered an address encouraging students to pursue lives marked by purpose, discipline and service to others.

Drawing on his own experiences, including a childhood marked by early family loss, Garnaut emphasised resilience and the formative role of adversity. He reflected that what can appear as hardship may, in time, reveal itself as a test rather than a setback, encouraging students to approach challenges with perseverance and perspective.

A central theme of the address was the importance of character. Garnaut spoke at length about integrity, humility and responsibility, outlining what he described as the “non-negotiables” of both personal and professional life. These principles were reflected in a set of “ten commandments” that guide his business leadership, including prioritising clients, taking responsibility for failure, and valuing teamwork and gratitude  .

He also encouraged students to think carefully about their own strengths and direction. Rather than simply pursuing available opportunities, he suggested a more reflective approach: identifying one’s unique abilities, areas of excellence, and limitations with the help of trusted friends or mentors.

“Once you know what you’re really good at, and what you love doing, that’s where you should go,” he said, noting that clarity of purpose is a strong foundation for meaningful work.

Throughout the address, Garnaut returned to the idea that success is not an endpoint but an ongoing responsibility. “Success is never owned, only rented,” he said, urging students to commit themselves to continual growth and disciplined effort.

He also spoke candidly about the importance of balancing different dimensions of life, describing what he termed the “seven Qs” — intellectual, emotional, purpose, physical, spiritual, happiness and gratitude — as a framework for maintaining a well-rounded and integrated life . This emphasis on integration resonated with Campion College’s liberal arts ethos, which seeks to form students intellectually, spiritually, socially and professionally.

In his closing remarks, Garnaut encouraged students to make the most of their time at Campion College and to recognise the distinctive opportunities it offers.

“You have got a serious competitive advantage,” he said. “Do not let it go.”

Following the address, Dr Paul Morrissey thanked Garnaut for his contribution, noting the alignment between his reflections on an integrated life and the College’s educational vision. He also acknowledged Garnaut’s generosity in supporting the College, describing his visit as both inspiring and deeply appreciated.

See below for photos from the night.