By Shelby Brooks
Lakeside College Pakenham will “today and forever” remember Year 12 student Nick Maan, who tragically passed away at Mordialloc beach on Boxing Day last year.
In a touching ceremony, the college officially unveiled Nick’s Court – a brand-new outdoor basketball space – at a school assembly on Wednesday 29 March.
An AFL football, Hot Wheels car and photo of Nick formed part of the tribute.
Teacher Amanda Trewin explained the football represented Nick’s love of sport.
“He was so excited about the prospect of playing football for Gippsland Power this year,” she said.
“It wasn’t just footy he loved, he loved all sports. We know he would have been out here shooting baskets at every opportunity.”
The Hot Wheels car represented his vibrant personality.
“Nick had a famous bright smile. He was fun and an entertaining person to be around – a symbol of this was his beloved Hot Wheels’ cars,” Ms Trewin said.
“Nick loved buying these cars, even as a teenager – it was something he was paid out for by his mates but something we really treasured about him.”
The photo of Nick represented his friendship he shared with his classmates.
“Nick was a very loyal friend, he knew how to make people laugh and he knew how to get alongside and support people,” Ms Trewin said.
“The profound sense of loss that so many have experienced since his passing demonstrates how many people in the community counted Nick as a friend.
“It is fitting then that this place of sport, friendship and fun is being named in Nick’s honour today.”
Principal Tom Brennan remembered the 17-year-old’s “cheeky smile and the energy he brought to our classrooms”.
“To have this permanent reminder of Nick brings some comfort to us,” he said.
“In this place we know his memory will not be forgotten and all who play on this court will know a little of who Nick was and what he stood for.”
Mr Brennan explained why a rock was chosen to form the tribute.
“God is like the rock, always steady, always where you expect him to be, always ready to listen,” he said.
“For this reason it is no accident that the plaque for Nick’s court is on a rock.
“This rock and these verses remind us that in these times God is indeed with us.”
Nick’s Year 12 classmates laid candles around the memorial after the ceremony.
