theDove The Magazine of All Saints’ College Issue 66 Winter 2011
66 Acknowledgments
From the Editor
Editor Sian Orchard
IN an increasingly globalised world, it is vital that we develop a broad world view through multicultural awareness, understanding and interaction. All Saints’ College embraces and promotes opportunities for its students to develop cultural understanding both abroad and closer to home, as highlighted in this edition of The Dove. College Principal, Dr Geoffrey Shaw, writes on page 4 about the benefits for our students in being part of a culturally diverse and co-educational school population. The wider range of ideas, perspectives and interactions that arise from these differences in others are empowering and worth celebrating. The international tour to China is one of several overseas trips offered by the College, which broadens students’ minds and immerses them in the history and culture of another country. Closer to home, a group of Senior School students made valuable connections with French exchange students from Nice, when they hosted the overseas visitors earlier in the year. Our students benefited from the opportunity to practise their French language skills, learn about a new country, and develop lifelong friendships.
Art Director Tony Clarke, Spirit Printer Lamb Print
Photography Community Relations Department, Photo Hendriks, Community Newspaper Group, staff and students Editorial Contributors Staff, students and College community members Proof Readers Community Relations Department, Mrs Mary Thornton All Saints’ College Ewing Avenue, Bull Creek WA 6149 PO Box 165, Willetton WA 6955 www.allsaints.wa.edu.au Senior School: Junior School:
(08) 9313 9333 (08) 9313 9334
Co-education is education for life. Naturally
2 the Dove – All Saints’ College
Inside this issue The global media printed and broadcast devastating news of the world’s natural disasters in recent months, as described on page 5 by College Chaplain, Father Braden Short. Through various fundraising activities and community service projects, the College continues to support and care for its local and international neighbours in times of need. Well-known Indigenous Australian, Ernie Dingo, spent two days in the Junior School at the end of Term 2, engaging staff and students in various activities to expand their knowledge of Indigenous traditions and cultural history. This positive experience was important in the development of informed opinions and sensitive responses to Indigenous culture. Cover Caption: Years 10 to 12 students, accompanied by Mr Phil Brockbank and Ms Laura Nicholson, had an unexpected meet and greet with Prime Minister Julia Gillard and her partner Tim Mathieson, at The Forbidden City in Beijing. This was one of many highlights for the All Saints’ travellers during the 13-day cultural tour of China and Hong Kong.
4
From the Principal
5
Chaplain Chatter
6
China Tour group meets Prime Minister
7
Ernie Dingo visits the Junior School
8
10th Anniversary Literature Festival
11 Rockfest 12 Cyber-safe students lead by example 13 Kenya World Challenge training expedition 14 Staff News 18 Junior School From the Head of Junior School, Lord Mayor’s Distress Relief Fund, Japanese Crazy Hair for a good cause, Young hands get creative with wood, Church community enjoys sweet sounds, Environment Week, Wonders of the West 25 Transition Program Fun and friendship at Youth Groups, Shakespearean plays, Ancient History extension workshop, Medieval castles
28 Senior School French Exchange students from Nice, Liz Gray portraiture workshops, Double triumph in major Chemistry competition, Hammarskjöld Trophy Competition success, Students step out on Sydney Dance Tour, Curtin University Art excursion, Helping Hands, Photography excursions capture the imagination, Year 12 Retreat, Urinetown the Musical 38 From the Archive 25th Anniversary of Year 12 Retreats 40 From the Parents and Friends’ Society 42 Old Saints From the Old Saints President, Interview with Sian Angel (née Morgan, 2002), 5 Year Reunion: Class of 2006, Weddings and babies, Where Are They Now?
the Dove THE dove is the traditional symbol of the Holy Spirit, a messenger of good news or peace. It forms an integral part of the All Saints’ College crest and represents the school’s commitment to the spiritual and moral development of its students. The magazine title also links in with the College’s other major publication, the Columba year-book, Columba being Latin for dove.
the Dove – All Saints’ College 3
From the Principal
Chaplain Chatter
Dr Geoffrey Shaw
Father Braden Short – Chaplain
I HAVE often spoken or written about the concept of diversity, particularly in relation to gender diversity and cultural diversity as they impact on a school.
FAMILIES who have been with us for a while will probably know of my personal commitment to the importance of co-education. In a similar way, I have a strong view that it is a great benefit to have a culturally diverse school population. Being socially diverse is difficult for a high-fee school, but it too is valuable. The concept of diversity as a rich component in a school has much greater presence in US schools than it does in Australian schools. Major American private schools often market themselves with a reference to their social diversity, particularly reporting on the percentage of African American students in their enrolments, and often declaring their diversity ethic or mission. In the past it has troubled me that “diversity” has been attached to a concept of “tolerance”, or a sense that diversity is morally desirable, while having few other more practical benefits. These outlooks now seem thoroughly outmoded, paternalistic and judgmental. By contrast, the idea of diversity which I find enriching is one which sees it as providing clear advantages. This is not a judgmental and superior view of diversity but one which, bluntly, recognises and values the profits to be had. 4 the Dove – All Saints’ College
Thus, a major benefit to a school being co-educational is that mixed-gender classes incorporate a much wider range of ideas, of perspectives, of ways of viewing matters, of forms of engaging. This simply increases the resources available to each thinker. It seems perverse to deny a class the additional range which becomes available simply by including both genders. And exactly the same benefit comes from a diversity of cultures. At All Saints’, we gain from our increasingly culturally diverse population, and it is becoming more diverse at a surprisingly rapid rate. We have 31 different nationalities listed in our current enrolment records. Individuals grow in their understanding from the range of ideas and perspectives which people different from them bring to a discussion. It is a matter of great pleasure that so much of what happens at the College, and much of what is reported in this issue of The Dove, is based in, or reflective of, the empowerment of our diversity.
“We allow our ignorance to prevail upon us and make us think we can survive alone, alone in patches, alone in groups, alone in races, even alone in genders.” (Maya Angelou, author of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings) “We have become not a melting pot but a beautiful mosaic. Different people, different beliefs, different yearnings, different hopes, different dreams.” (Former US President, Jimmy Carter)
THANK goodness Mother Nature has quietened down a little in the past few months.
STORMS and floods in Queensland and Victoria; an earthquake, tsunami and then nuclear meltdown in Japan; earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand which caused irreversible devastation and destruction to that beautiful old city and its inhabitants; and a volcano in Chile which stopped flights in Australia and New Zealand, to name but a few natural disasters. Even our own fires earlier this year which destroyed many houses, and a hail storm in early 2010 which left destruction and a plethora of cars with huge dents, left us Perthites wondering what was happening. Having lived in our beautiful city for some 30 years now, I have never seen our dams so empty and our weather so unpredictable. Some might even be a bit fearful of what the future holds for humanity. Is our little planet, our safe home, swinging into a new cycle where the weather patterns are becoming less forgiving? Having moved myself into this melancholy place, I find myself reading that well-known and beautiful 23rd Psalm as written in the King James Version of the Bible (celebrating its 400th year in 2011).
In amongst all this devastation we see rays of hope, “goodness and mercy”, being shown by neighbour to neighbour. Our wonderful students continue to raise funds for the needy, both near and far, and give of themselves in practical ways to support those less fortunate, as has been our tradition for 30 years. If we continue to show compassion, pray for, give what we can to those in need and seek new ways to reach out to each other, we might find that we help to bring to fruition the sentiment shared in The 23rd Psalm for all people: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me.” We are not alone. The Lord Be With You.
The 23rd Psalm The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
the Dove – All Saints’ College 5
College News
Insight into Indigenous culture INDIGENOUS culture was at the forefront of students’ learning when well-known Australian media personality, Ernie Dingo, spent two days in the Junior School towards the end of Term 2.
China tour group meets Prime Minister STUDENTS and staff who embarked on the All Saints’ College China Tour in the Easter school holidays, had an unexpected meet and greet with Prime Minister Julia Gillard and her partner Tim Mathieson. THE Years 10 to 12 students accompanied by Mr Phil Brockbank and Ms Laura Nicholson, visited Beijing’s 600-year-old Forbidden City as part of their 13-day cultural tour of China and Hong Kong. Thousands of tourists were kept behind barriers while the Prime Minister and her entourage were given a private guided tour through the ornate buildings which were once home to Chinese emperors. When media photographers spotted the 6 the Dove – All Saints’ College
Australian flag that Mr Brockbank always takes on tours, the All Saints’ group was ushered past Chinese security to pose for pictures and speak with the Prime Minister. Ms Gillard’s visit to the Forbidden City was part of a week-long tour of North Asia, including a leaders’ meeting to discuss economic, defence and human rights issues. Meeting the Prime Minister was a memorable experience for the All Saints’ students and
staff. Many College community members were pleasantly surprised to see the group of familiar faces appear on Australian television news and in print media after their ‘brush with fame’. Other highlights of the All Saints’ China Tour included walking along a section of the Great Wall of China; a day trip to see one of the most significant archaeological excavations of the 20th Century – the Terracotta Warriors in
Xian; hours of fun at Hong Kong Disneyland; a tour of the Beijing Olympic sites; and a wander through the Temple of Heaven. The tour broadened students’ minds and gave them a greater appreciation of the culture, colour and contrasts of ancient and modern China.
SEVERAL Year 6 students acted as ‘roving reporters’ during Ernie’s visit, recording the learning of each year group in words and photographs before presenting the information at Assembly. This enabled students to reflect on their learning and gain an insight into the discussions and activities that took place in other classes. “Ernie is a positive and engaging speaker who promotes a positive view of Australia, Indigenous culture and the need to be inclusive of others,” Head of Junior School Penelope Crane said. “Rather than reading about indigenous culture, it can be more effective for students to hear from someone who is Australian, indigenous and who has been directly affected by our indigenous history.” Ernie led the students in hands-on activities based on topics decided by the Junior School staff and students. This included Welcome to Country with Year 5s, Dreamtime stories and greetings with Early Childhood and Year 3 students, Ernie’s Childhood Experiences with Years 4 and 6, and shooting basketball hoops with Year 6s. Junior School staff members were also interested to hear Ernie’s perspective on
indigenous issues when he was invited to speak at a staff meeting. “I am hopeful the students’ minds were opened and stimulated to think about indigenous issues in a new and more informed way,” Mrs Crane said. “For All Saints’ College Junior School, this was an important step in gaining a greater understanding of indigenous culture.”
Photographs courtesy of Community Newspaper Group.
the Dove – All Saints’ College 7
College News Lit Fest celebrates 10 years THE 10th anniversary Literature Festival was launched by internationally renowned author Markus Zusak in April, to an audience of sponsors, staff, invited guests and presenters, many of whom had been part of the first Festival in 2002. WHAT started as an idea has become an important annual event on the literary calendar, both in Western Australia and nationally. Students, teachers and members of the wider community descended on All Saints’ College for three days, to celebrate the exciting world of books and stories. Books were again brought to life at Lit Fest 2011 – Storylines, as some of Australia’s most loved authors, illustrators and story-tellers inspired young people with their literary wisdom and personal experiences. Markus Zusak, Felice Arena, Mark Carthew, Barry Heard, Alison Lester, Frané Lessac and Mike Spoor were among the popular and talented line-up of local, interstate and international presenters. Students were also introduced to some new and exciting authors such as Shirley Marr, Cristy Burne and Deb Fitzpatrick, who presented at their first Festival. “The aim of the Festival is to promote literacy in its broadest sense in an exciting, stimulating and fun way, and to present a program that provides interest, motivation and inspiration,” Literature Festival Coordinator Kris Williams said. Students laughed, cried and listened intently to stories of war, love, friendship, bullying, 8 the Dove – All Saints’ College
adolescence, travel, sport, the environment, and much more. This year’s diverse program also included fun and hands-on illustration, writing, poetry, drama and dance workshops. A panel of writers, illustrators and publishers participated in an interesting and passionate debate on the topic: There is no future for books in the digital age. Congratulations to the College, Literature Festival Coordinator Kris Williams, and to everyone who contributed to the event throughout its first 10 years. All Saints’ College is proud to promote a love of reading, writing and illustrating by providing opportunities for Western Australian children and adolescents, to meet the people who created some of their favourite books.
the Dove – All Saints’ College 9
College News Books inspire creative entries THE 2011 Lit Fest Writers’ Competition attracted a range of imaginative, creative and thought-provoking prose, poetry and illustration entries based on the theme of Books. WOOLDRIDGES Educational Superstores and All Saints’ College continued their successful 10-year partnership, by again opening up the competition to all Western Australian students from Years 1 to 13. Congratulations to All Saints’ College student Davina Daudu (Year 9), who won the Prose: Years 8-12 category for her story Real Men Don’t Read Books. Jacqueline Soon (Year 8) also produced a winning entry in the Illustration category: Years 8-12. Jacqueline’s intricate black and white drawing is entitled A World of Knowledge and Imagination. Jocelyn Weir (Year 6) and Julia Schulz (Year 8) were deserving recipients of Commendations for the respective categories of Poetry: Years 1-7, and Illustration: Years 8-12.
A World of Knowledge and Imagination Winner – Illustration: Years 8-12 By Jacqueline Soon (Year 8)
Davina and Jacqueline, along with other category winners from various Perth schools, each received a book prize package to the value of $250 supplied by Wooldridges.
Excerpt from:
Real Men Don’t Read Books Winner – Prose: Years 8-12 By Davina Daudu (Year 9) SOME boys my age like AFL. Some like soccer. Some like basketball. Some like cars. I like books. My mum tells me I’ve been reading since I was five. She says that she’s pretty sure the first word I ever said was ‘book’. I agree with her because books are part of my identity. People know if I haven’t read a good book in ages because my mood changes and I start snapping at people. I’m pretty sure I have wasted thousands of dollars of pocket money on books alone. My bedroom was once so full of books that my father had to use one of the old cellars in our house as my ‘book room’. I guess my true passion for reading truly began when I was just five years old. There was a library across the street from my house where my mother took me as a treat for my fifth birthday. It was a modern library with two levels and a glass exterior. When my mother took me in, I was blown away by the sweet smell, the air-conditioning and the shiny marble floor. There were so many books! Big books, small books, short books, tall books! Ranging from biographies to murder mysteries, this library had it all! I remember my mother taking me by the hand to the large, ornate wooden table near the entrance to
10 the Dove – All Saints’ College
the library to sign me up for a library card. Behind the desk sat an old man with curly, silver hair that touched his shoulders, and spectacles that made his eyes look large and innocent. He wore a red suede jacket, dusty brown trousers and name tag that read ‘Timothy’. When he saw me, he smiled a warm smile. ‘G’day!’ he chirped in a raspy, friendly voice. ‘What can I do for you today?’ Within 10 minutes I had a library card and I had borrowed five colourful picture books. Like the front teeth of a beaver, my love for reading continued to grow. I longed for the days when I would visit the library, and when my parents decided I was old enough to ride the bus Year 7. I rode to the bus stop that was 100 metres away from the library so that I could always stop there before I went home. I was soon a familiar face and I knew all of the people who worked there and were regulars. Timothy the librarian, May the lawyer who was always reading John Grisham books, Harry Patter the Harry Potter fanatic, Lucy the Agatha Christie devotee, and Alex the forty-something-year-old principal who had probably read all of the books in the library three times already. They knew me as Michael, the librarian’s protégée, because I had explored the library thoroughly and I knew where everything was.
Photograph courtesy of Community Newspaper Group.
New Badminton Club for Bull Creek SOCIAL and competitive badminton players of all ages and abilities are invited to join a new community Badminton Club in Bull Creek. THE Badminton Club is open to all members of the local community and meets each Thursday during school term time from 6pm to 8pm in the All Saints’ College Indoor Sports Centre. The state-of-the-art new facility boasts lowimpact synthetic flooring with eight courts set up each week for games of singles and doubles. There are currently up to 20 regular members and it is hoped the players will establish their own management group as the Club develops. Badminton Club member, College parent and Old Saint, Adrienne Wright, said the atmosphere was family friendly with male and female members of different ages and skill levels. “It is a fun, supportive and inclusive environment with experienced players on hand to offer coaching tips and techniques,”
Adrienne said. “We have been grateful for the help of 2010 Commonwealth Games Badminton Player and Badminton Association of Western Australia State Development Officer Nicholas Kidd, who has been involved in getting our new club off the ground.” The weekly cost is $5 for Under 16s and $7 for adults which can be paid on the night. Anyone interested in joining the Club is encouraged to come along to one of the Thursday night games. Parking is available off Brockman Avenue, at the end of Gate 4 driveway outside the Indoor Sports Centre. Racquets and shuttlecocks will be available for use or players can bring their own. For more information please email: info@allsaints. wa.edu.au or phone 9313 9333.
Students feel the beat at Rockfest AT the start of 2011, College students who wanted to join a Rock Band were invited to a meeting. TWENTY enthusiastic students attended and were divided into four bands. Each band rehearsed once a week, either before or after school, or during lunchtime. The students worked with a Music teacher who assisted and guided them. To help the bands prepare for their first performance, a workshop was held on 27 May. Following a scrumptious afternoon tea, each band had the opportunity to rehearse for two hours, in preparation for Rockfest which
took place in Week 7 of Term 2. A different band performed each day during lunchtime in the Performing Arts Centre, presenting three songs each. At the end of the week, Rockfest concluded with a performance by a professional band, Sonpilo Circus. Thank you to the four dedicated Rock Band Directors at the College: Dan Ablett, Quentin Edmonds, Hayley Wellington and Jen Winley. the Dove – All Saints’ College 11
College News
Cyber-safe students lead by example FOUR Year 10 students (Briana Preimesberger, Phoebe Anderson, Simrin Panag and I) were invited to attend a Cyber-Safety Leadership Workshop at Edith Cowan University in Term 1. WE used the training we received on the day to present to Years 5 and 6 students in the Junior School. We spoke to them about being cybersafe and how to cope with cyber-bullying, both online and on mobile phones. Our intention was not to tell the younger students that the internet was ‘evil’ and should not be used, but to teach them awareness about what could happen on the internet and how their online actions were accessible to the ‘real’ world. At the start of the presentation we asked the students some questions about their life on the internet. It was surprising how many
12 the Dove – All Saints’ College
Year 6s had a Facebook account even though they were below the age limit. At the end of the presentation, we asked the year groups to create a poster using university-created software, which promoted the importance of bystanders in cyber-safety. This was a great way to reinforce our message and to gauge how much the Junior School students learnt from our presentation. The student who produces the most creative and informative poster will receive a prize. Aaron Musgrave – Year 10
All Saints’ adventurers prepare for Kenya World Challenge A GROUP of eight adventurous Years 10 and 11 students and two staff, benefited from an eye-opening training expedition in Dwellingup for two days during the Easter school holidays. EXPEDITION Leader Jared (or ‘Crunky’ as he is better known), started us thinking about some scenarios in preparation for our upcoming four-week Kenya World Challenge from 28 December 2011. One of the toughest scenarios during the training expedition was buying dinner, breakfast and lunch for two days with only $7 each! With much difficulty and discussion, we decided which food we were going to eat and had money left over for two blocks of chocolate (one of which mysteriously
disappeared). We were then shown to our camp site where we were given passports to look after at all times (which looked unmistakably like rocks!). Setting up our tents proved somewhat of a challenge because when the boys bought our tents from the ‘Kenyan Shop’, they returned with no poles or pegs. Having to pay extra, we finally ended up with everything we needed to set up our tents and small camp site. Next, Crunky prepared us for our first hike which was an almost vertical climb. After the
6km stroll, we returned to the camp site at dark and cooked our pasta dinner. We had a visit from some local kangaroos that seemed to enjoy eating pasta off the dirt. We built a campfire and cooked ourselves s’mores before retreating to our tents. Waking up at 6am was somewhat of a relief, knowing the freezing night was behind us. That morning we cooked porridge with honey for breakfast, and waited as three of our group left for various reasons, including work commitments and the College Ball.
With five students, Miss Codalonga and Mrs Felsinger remaining, Crunky told us the plan for the rest of the day and we started our two-hour hike back to the bus. After lunch we headed for home which ended our insightful, educational and much-needed training expedition in Dwellingup.
WORLD Challenge expeditions are designed to teach life skills and expand young people’s minds outside the classroom. In Kenya, the All Saints’ challengers will be involved in a range of life-changing community projects, treks and cultural experiences. This will include an eightday visit to Teacher Benjamin’s school in the small Maasai village of Olasiti. Here,
the All Saints’ travellers will teach the school community and adults how to use the One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) computers. All Saints’ will fundraise to provide 40 laptops and Teacher Benjamin is enthusiastic to give his community the opportunity to learn about the world using this wonderful technology. (For more information visit the website
www.olpc.org.au). Mrs Felsinger will undertake a special program with the OLPC organisation and in turn, teach the challengers so they can share their knowledge with the Maasai community. The All Saints’ group will also help the community with English and other activities such as collecting water.
Kenya World Challenge adventurers: Alette Nalder, Ashley McPhail, Kate Martin, Ben Fosbery & Olivia Goodger (Year 11), Andrew Metcalfe, Matthew Stubberfield & Kelly O’Brien (Year 10), & Mrs Suzanne Felsinger.
Alette Nalder – Year 11
the Dove – All Saints’ College 13
Staff News Teachers contribute to Australian Curriculum
Second daughter for Transition Teacher
THE Federal Government, with the approval of the States, is progressively developing a curriculum for the whole of Australia for each year of schooling.
TRANSITION Program Teacher Becky Renton, her husband David and daughter Mikaela, were pleased to welcome the newest addition to their family, Olivia Jennifer Renton, on the morning of 19 May 2011. Baby Olivia weighed 4.112kg at birth and surprised everyone with a headful of black hair! Mikaela is very excited to be a big sister.
THE curriculum is gradually being released and the latest publication was to Year 10. Eventually Years 11 and 12 will also be included. If a document is issued for a particular subject, then each State has agreed to adopt that syllabus. For example, Chemistry is taught in Western Australia and is also to be part of the Australian Curriculum. Western Australia will therefore adopt the National document in preference to its current State syllabus. In subjects such as Integrated Science where a WA syllabus exists but there is no National syllabus, the State will continue
with its own course. Each State will use the same syllabus, but will develop its own examination and grading systems for the course. Australasian Curriculum, Assessment and Certification Authorities (ACACA) is keen to discover whether an ‘A’ grade in Western Australia is the same as an ‘A’ in Queensland. To investigate this question, ACACA invited three respected and experienced teachers in each state to compare some 60 folios of work in pairs, ranking one against the other. These folios of work were from across Australia, representing every
state and curriculum. ACACA chose to carry out this process in English, French and Chemistry. It is pleasing that out of nine teachers selected in Western Australia, two of those are All Saints’ College staff members, Gael Cameron (French) and Lyndon Smith (Chemistry). This is testament to the high quality teaching staff at the College. Gael and Lyndon’s work will be used by ACACA to determine the comparability between assessment methods and grading across Australia as we move to the new system.
From Beethoven to Sitsky ALL Saints’ College Piano Tutor, Inna Fursa, and Strings Coordinator, Thea Kotzé, received a special invitation from the Royal Schools Music Club to perform in the Callaway Auditorium at The University of Western Australia on 9 April. THE wonderful acoustics of the auditorium, which was filled to capacity, enhanced the lyricism of Beethoven and continued into the atmospheric fantasy world of Larry Sitsky. Thea performed the virtuosic Vitali’s Chaconne on violin, accompanied by Senior School Music Teacher, John Beaverstock. She continued her recital with Beethoven’s muchloved Spring Sonata, with Inna as accompanist. 14 the Dove – All Saints’ College
The two musicians excelled in their ability to communicate the interplay between violin and piano in this work. Inna also performed solo piano repertoire by Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff. A movement from Sitsky’s new composition, The Golden Dawn, followed. This movement was dedicated to Inna and it was given its Western Australian première on the night.
The appreciative audience enjoyed a memorable evening of classical music. Many young pianists and violinists in attendance were inspired by the professionalism of these two musicians. All Saints’ College is proud to have such talent among its Music Department teaching and tutoring staff.
A smile to melt hearts OLIVIA Josephine Tsocas was born on 4 March 2011 at St John of God Hospital, Murdoch. She weighed 7lbs 2oz and is a younger sister for two-year-old Michael. Olivia is the happiest and most adorable baby in the world! Michael is an awesome big brother, showering Olivia in kisses and singing her to sleep. Mr Steve Tsocas and his family thank the All Saints’ community for their kind wishes and gifts.
the Dove – All Saints’ College 15
Staff News
Saintly students form guard of honour DEBORAH Gaglio married her childhood sweetheart of 10 years, Andrew Martin, on Saturday, 20 November 2010. THE couple was blessed with lovely weather (despite the forecast of 39 degrees during the week, it ended up being a perfect 34). They were married at the magnificent St Mary’s Cathedral in Perth, which is a significant church in Deb’s family. Deb’s Pre-Primary students came dressed in their school uniforms and formed a guard of honour for her to walk through before she entered the church. Deb was so touched by this thoughtful and memorable gesture because she adored her class and was delighted to have them share in
her special day. The reception was celebrated at Cottesloe Golf Course, where guests ate and danced the night away. It was a truly magical day; one to remember and a wonderful way to begin their life together.
Ceremony celebrates Greek traditions YEAR 8 Teacher Kylie McGhie, and Michael Mavromatis, wed on 4 December 2010 at the Greek Orthodox Church of Saints Constantine and Helene. A reception followed at the University Club of Western Australia. ALL traditional rituals in the Greek Church were followed including wearing wedding crowns and walking around the altar three times. A touching highlight of the day for Kylie was the attendance of a group of All Saints’ students at the ceremony. Photographs were taken in Fremantle where the Variety Club was holding a ‘Santa’ Fun Run. This saw the newly-weds
16 the Dove – All Saints’ College
congratulated by about 500 men and women dressed as Santa! Kylie’s niece and nephew were extremely excited and looked gorgeous as the page boy and flower girl. Everything went perfectly on the day, despite Kylie being sick for three days prior to the wedding. The couple had a relaxing time honeymooning in Bali.
Romantic proposal fit for an Art Teacher TRENT Pedroli proposed to Senior School Art Teacher, Jaelle Wiedemann, in November 2009 by commissioning an artist to pop the question within an illustration. THE artwork was hung in the Fremantle Arts Centre to be later viewed by Jaelle. When the couple came across the artwork, Jaelle was both amazed and overjoyed. She said it was the “best proposal ever and very fitting for an Art Teacher!” Jaelle and Trent’s wedding ceremony was celebrated at Wesley Church, Fremantle on 7 January 2011, followed by a
reception at Salt on the Beach. It was a romantic day shared with family and friends. Photographs courtesy of Michelle Dean Photography
Bride’s veil takes flight in autumn breeze COMMUNITY Relations Officer Sian Orchard was, for a rare change, on the opposite side of the camera when she married Daniel Trim on Saturday, 12 March 2011 at The Basilica of St Patrick in Fremantle. AS Editor of the College Dove and Columba magazines, Sian is responsible for photographing students and staff at a variety of College events. But this time all the cameras were focused on Sian and her handsome husband. She looked every inch the princess as she walked down the aisle to Pachelbel’s Canon in D, played on the magnificent pipe organ by All Saints’ College Music Teacher, John Beaverstock. The traditional ceremony was followed by a happy and heartfelt reception at The Boatshed Restaurant in South Perth, overlooking the Swan
River and Perth City skyline. While enjoying pre-drinks and canapés, guests watched as the bridal party was photographed on the jetty. When a gust of wind lifted Sian’s veil out of her hair and into the river, a passing boat made a swift detour to pluck her veil out of the water and return it to the amused bridal party! Sian and Daniel spent their honeymoon travelling around the north and south islands of New Zealand. Photographs courtesy of Jaelle Wiedemann Photography the Dove – All Saints’ College 17
Junior School
From the Head of Junior School Mrs Penelope Crane – Head of Junior School AS always seems to be the case, Semester 1 flew by with remarkable speed. As I reflect on the past six months some key highlights come to mind. ONE is the preliminary planning of PreKindergarten which will begin in 2013. A Parent Information Session was well attended by parents and toddlers, enabling Sara Mano and me to pass on information essential to the vision behind the implementation of the new program. The focus of Pre-Kindergarten at All Saints’ College, is to build a partnership with families when their children enter the College as three-year-olds. The Positive Parenting Program will be promoted to enable parents to confidently manage the more challenging aspects of child rearing and College staff to communicate about the expectation of this most important aspect for the developing child. Students will be nurtured by a rich, rigorously planned, play-based environment that enables staff to get to know students and respond to their needs in the year prior to Kindergarten. This is an exciting innovation that will help enrich and support our young families. Junior School staff spent time updating the formal reports sent out to parents of Kindergarten to Year 6 students. This was done to more effectively reflect the learning of the students and also to comply with government mandates. As always, reflecting on practice is insightful and generates professional 18 the Dove – All Saints’ College
discussion. It helps to unify staff and clarify what we value as good practice. Information sessions gave staff the opportunity to convey information to parents and allowed for questions and answers. Sustainability and indigenous culture underpin the Australian Curriculum that is starting to be implemented in the Junior School. Environmental education has become part of what happens in the Junior School, however Environment Week enabled students to focus on the important and precious resource of water. This education for our students is an important part of the process as we become a Waterwise school. Junior School classes are building environmental learning into the curriculum with teachers taking excursions to Bull Creek Wetlands, to plant trees and identify birds or plant seedlings in the vegetable garden. Sustainable housing is a focus in Year 6. It is hoped activities such as these will encourage our students to be thoughtful and informed as they become scientifically literate and environmentally aware. Ernie Dingo visiting the College gave staff and students an opportunity to increase their awareness and positive understanding of our indigenous history and responsibility. He
worked with all Junior School students and staff on a range of activities. Ernie’s positive attitude, immense knowledge and understanding of indigenous cultural history, combined with a great sense of humour, ensured students were engaged fully and open to new ideas. This positive experience was important in the development of informed opinions and sensitive responses to indigenous culture. In Semester 1, we welcomed Nicola Minihan as Personal Assistant to the Head of Junior School. She has very quickly become a valued part of Junior School Administration. I am looking forward to working with Junior School staff and parents to continue inspiring, educating and nurturing the students in the Junior School.
Generous spirit impresses Deputy Lord Mayor TERM 1 was an active time for fundraising in the Junior School. With so many devastating disasters, both here in Australia and around the world, Junior School students wanted to help. HOUSE Captains decided that raising money for fire and flood victims in Western Australia was a good place to start. Meetings were held, posters created, equipment sorted and activities planned for a Fun Run around Australia. Students donated a gold coin to participate in the event. They sang at Sydney Opera House, picked grapes in Margaret River, kicked a football in Melbourne, and went fishing in Broome, among other activities. All of this action took place on the Junior School Oval at lunch time.
Towards the end of term, House Captains decided to show their youthfulness, strength and agility by competing against Junior School staff in a showdown netball competition. Needless to say, participants and spectators had lots of fun and money was raised for a worthy cause. The Junior School collected $700 and donated it to the Lord Mayor’s Distress Relief Fund. This was graciously accepted by City of Perth Deputy Lord Mayor, John Tognolini, at a Junior School Assembly. Councillor Tognolini
assured staff and students the money would go to needy families who were affected by the bushfires and floods earlier in the year. He thanked All Saints’ College students not only for the money presented to him, but for their generous spirit and concern for others. Junior School House Captains & Heads of House
the Dove – All Saints’ College 19
Junior School Junior School turns Japanese for a cause
Young hands get creative with wood “Wood is a wonderful material, a beautiful gift from the trees!” PRE-PRIMARY B and Pre-Primary M had a great time investigating and creating with wood when Greg Miller from Marginata Fine Furniture came to visit in Term 2. Greg came equipped with child-sized wood working benches, hammers, nails and an assortment of wood offcuts. The young students learnt the correct way to use a hammer, nails and a hand saw, and were
THE Junior School turned Japanese on Thursday, 23 June for a good cause. STUDENTS in Years 2 to 6 came to school sporting creative, interesting, and in many cases, outrageous hairstyles – all with a distinctly Japanese twist. Joined by the Junior School staff members who showed off their fluoro-punk Japanese coiffures, the Junior School managed to raise almost $500 for the Japan Tsunami and Earthquake Appeal. Boys in Years 3 and 4 used an online translation program to design and produce personalised head bands bearing their names in Japanese script. The boys were proud of their creative bandanas which also featured Japanese symbols. Girls got into the spirit of the
occasion with the use of glitter, flowers, fans and chopsticks to adorn their hair, and looked very chic indeed. Laughter could be heard all around the Junior School as class groups enjoyed watching some humorous Japanese animated cartoons. Thank you to Tate Sensei and Mrs Hardinge for organising this treat. At lunch time, students met in House groups to eat their lunches and appreciate the creative hairdressing of other students. A big thank you to everyone involved for making this fundraising event an enjoyable and successful experience.
Church community enjoys sweet sounds THE Bull Creek Westminster Presbyterian Church community was entertained by the sweet sounds of Junior School musicians during an excursion on Wednesday, 15 June. The Junior Voices Choir, Suzuki Violins and Kids Strings prepared a 45-minute program for the Church community. THE concert began with the Junior Voices, who presented six pieces. This was followed by Suzuki Violins and Kids Strings who performed a variety of works for the audience. Three soloists also performed at the concert: Matthias Gault (Year 3) and Matthew Maxwell (Year 4) who played piano solos, and Ashley Tsang (Year 2) who performed a solo on the violin.
20 the Dove – All Saints’ College
amazed at their own creative abilities. There were aeroplanes, helicopters, tables, boxes, cars and towers. Everyone, including teachers and parent helpers, enjoyed this experience and most importantly, children learnt that working with wood is an absolute joy!
At the end of the concert, the students were treated to a morning tea with the audience members. The occasion was a fantastic community service opportunity for the students. They enjoyed performing to the wider community and hope to continue this in the near future.
the Dove – All Saints’ College 21
Junior School Environment Week has Waterwise focus ENVIRONMENTAL Sustainability is the curriculum focus in the Junior School this year and Week 5 of Term 2, was Environment Week for Kindergarten to Year 6 students. BEING a Waterwise school was the focus of the week. Mrs Miller organised incursions by Waterwise presenters to help us understand how we can save water and the environment. In the Early Childhood Centre, Kindergarten children had a visit from The Worm Shed man to learn about worm farms before getting their hands dirty and making their own. They visited Bull Creek Wetlands with Senior School Head of Science, Mr Kent Williams, to plant saplings that had been cultivated by Senior School students. Pre-Primary also visited Bull Creek Wetlands and explored the properties of mud from a mud patch on the College grounds, adjoining the Indoor Sports Centre. Their delight in the experience was clearly evident in photographs of the event. Year 1 explored the properties of water, discovering what happened as it changed from cold to hot. They observed how long it took to change from ice to water in different locations. Year 2 focused their study on the importance of water to living things, in particular through the book, Where The Forest Meets The Sea by Jeannie Baker. They created a collage from the story out of recycled materials. Year 3 had fun in Science investigating how the kidneys work. They produced an Environment Week Newsletter which offered many tips for saving our environment. Year 4 studied the importance of drinking water when exercising, and kept a tally to show how much 22 the Dove – All Saints’ College
water they drank from their water bottles. They carried out an experiment with newspaper to demonstrate how rapidly waterborne diseases multiply. Year 5 students investigated various ways to save water in the home. They also discovered where our wastewater goes after it disappears down the drain. An innovative water-saving rap was performed by Year 6 students at Assembly. This was both entertaining and informative, with an important message for all staff, students and parents in attendance. Students from Kindergarten to Year 2 took part in a Scientific Poster Competition, while all Years 3 to 6 students had the opportunity to participate in an Environmental Poetry Competition. By the end of the week, more than 150 entries were received for each competition. The judges had a difficult job deciding on the winning entries for each year group and all of the successful students were presented with a ‘gardening’ prize. We rounded off the week with an Environment Week Assembly, where we shared the rich variety of activities that took place during the week. Environment Week was a wonderful learning experience for our students and another opportunity to focus on sustainability for the future. Mrs Sara Mano (Early Childhood Coordinator) & Mr Phil Randall (Curriculum Coordinator) the Dove – All Saints’ College 23
Junior School
Transition Program, Years 7/8
Wonders of the West
Fun and friendship at Youth Groups
AFTER studying our wondrous and unique state of Western Australia, Year 5 students organised an exhibition to showcase their learning to the Junior School community.
THE nights where classmates came together and had fun socialising and participating in a variety of activities returned, when Youth Group was reintroduced for 2011.
INDIVIDUALS and small groups chose a topic of interest to them which covered a wide range of themes including tourism, mining and history. The Year 5 teachers were impressed with how the students carried out their first longer
project, displaying good time management and developing inquiry skills. There was a great turnout on the day and staff and students appreciated the hugely positive feedback from visitors.
“It was like we were really travelling around WA.” Mitchell Tate (5S) “I had lots of fun seeing everyone’s posters and admiring the hard work they had put in.” Juvenna Tassone (5C)
ORGANISED by Father Braden and Service Captain Courtney Arrowsmith, these exciting evenings were held once a term in Semester 1, on separate nights for the Years 7 and 8 students. With help from the Student Council, Years 7 and 8 were treated to a multitude of activities including sports and quizzes, dodge ball, capture the flag, obstacle courses, night games in the dark school grounds, and Ninja, which was spectacular when played with a large group of students!
Taking full advantage of the Indoor Sport Centre’s advanced audio visual systems, there were even two real-life game shows, Minute to Win It and The Million Dollar Drop, which were played with lollipops! The evenings ended with a delicious supper provided by all attending students, who brought a plate of finger food to share. Youth Group is a brilliant way to spend an adventurous and entertaining evening with peers. It is great to see that since its revival this year, more and more Years 7 and 8 students are coming along and enjoying a night out with their friends. Brandon Loo Year 12
“It was great, but I think I scared a few people with my Fremantle Prisoner costume!” Max Barrow (5S) “It was nice to become an expert on the topics we chose to learn more about.” Caitlin Blackman (5C) 24 the Dove – All Saints’ College
the Dove – All Saints’ College 25
Transition Program, Years 7/8 Shakespearean studies broaden minds DURING the second half of Term 2, Year 8 students studied the chapter of literature that is William Shakespeare. PERHAPS best known for his multitude of extravagant plays and poems including Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth and Hamlet, Shakespeare is a prominent pinnacle in the history of English. For our studies, we focused on A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a play believed to have been written about 1593. Set in Ancient Greece, the story is about the events surrounding the marriage of the Duke of Athens and Queen of the Amazons. However, most of the play details fairies manipulating both a love rectangle of young Athenian lovers, and a corps of amateur actors. From close examination of chapter after chapter, we learnt about verse and prose. This included poetic techniques such as hyperbole, simile, metaphor, personification, onomatopoeia, symbol, rhyme and rhythm. When we first read the extracts we felt quite overwhelmed and anxious because we had no idea about the meaning behind the text. Now however, we are all masters of the Shakespearean language: “thou fobbing onion eyed foot-lickers!” Our final assessment was to perform a scene from the play we had studied in depth. Students were divided into groups of four or five and were given a specific role to play. Through mixed emotions: joy, 26 the Dove – All Saints’ College
eagerness, reluctance, and a mountain of hard work, all groups successfully recreated their given play, spiced it up, rehearsed and put their individual spin on the characters. In keeping with the Shakespearean theme, one Year 8 class had an amazing opportunity to watch the play, The Enchanters, at the Heath Ledger State Theatre. This once-in-alifetime experience was all possible thanks to Mrs Natasha Saunders, who won the tickets for her class through the Hawaiian Alive project. The play was inspiring, captivating and enthralling. It was a remarkable event and the class is extremely grateful to Mrs Saunders for giving them such a wonderful opportunity. The play focused on the dramatic struggle leading up to the development of Shakespeare’s original playhouse, Globe Theatre in London. It contained elements of drama, romance, action and deception, while broadening the entire class’s view of English. All in all, it was a marvellous semester in the subject of English. Shakespeare is now a remarkable and respectable man in our eyes, and we cannot wait for the challenges of Semester 2. Alyssa Lee & Marcus Wong – Year 8
Stepping back into Ancient History THOUSANDS of years ago, technology constituted the wheel, forged iron and symbols to record events. IN today’s instant information and wireless society, students can often gain a better understanding of ancient world history by recreating the life challenges experienced by their early ancestors. A group of Years 7 and 8 students did just that, when they delved into past cultures and civilisations during an interesting and informative Ancient History Extension workshop on 22 July. The students participated in fun and hands-on activities including solving ancient mysteries using different types of evidence, and tantalising their tastebuds during an Ancient Roman MasterChef competition
using Mark Grant’s Roman Cookery book. They read an Ancient Greek play by the comic playwright Aristophanes, threw a javelin, discus and shot put in an Ancient Olympics, and analysed numismatic evidence using Ancient Roman and Greek coins brought into the College by Dr Shaw. The students unravelled the answers to intriguing questions such as ‘Why was Julius Caesar assassinated?’ and ‘How did Ancient Sparta and Ancient Athens govern themselves?’ The workshop also included learning how to speak Ancient Greek, and planning ideas and activities for a new Ancient History Club at All Saints’ College.
Medieval castles make big impression MEDIEVAL History was a focus of study for all Year 8 students in Semester 1. ONE of the most important features of medieval life was the enormous stone castles built so kings and knights could defend their land. Class 8Y held an informal competition to see who could build the best castle. There were many impressive entries including
some made of wood, but the most delicious were those made of cake! The winning castle was Liam Bishop’s enormous construction, which was proudly displayed in the Senior School Library foyer. the Dove – All Saints’ College 27
Senior School
Lifelong connections through French exchange ON 18 February, 14 excited All Saints’ French students gathered with their families at Perth International Airport to greet their exchange students from Lycée Honoré d’Estienne d’Orves in Nice. THE French visitors spent the first weekend of their three-week stay, settling into life with their new host families and experiencing the diverse and unique Aussie culture. This included tasting Vegemite for the first time, which most of the students described as ‘interesting’. On Monday, they headed off for their first day at All Saints’ where they attended classes and participated in activities with their host students. Madame Cameron and the French teacher Madame Liotard, organised various excursions for the students as a change of scenery from the classroom. The first excursion was to Scitech, followed by a visit to Perth Zoo, the Western 28 the Dove – All Saints’ College
Australian Museum, Mandurah, and a highlight for the group was a day trip to Rottnest. On weekends and after school, host families organised trips and experiences of their own. During the long weekend, three students and their families went to Lancelin to participate in Desert Storm Adventures. This gigantic fourwheel drive tour bus is designed to travel over the pristine sand dunes of Lancelin and proved to be a memorable experience. Some students went camping or enjoyed feeding native Australian wildlife, while others went shopping or saw the Sculpture by the Sea Exhibition at Cottesloe Beach. Each student had a different,
yet extraordinary experience. On the final night of their stay, all of the families and students attended a farewell barbecue on The Common at All Saints’ College. Speeches, farewells and many good stories were shared by teachers, students and families. The following night the group was back at Perth Airport. This was quite possibly the saddest night ever! Many tears were shed as everyone reluctantly said their final goodbyes. Some of the students ran back down the stairs to scream “AUSSIE, AUSSIE, AUSSIE” across the international terminal, to then hear an ‘OI, OI, OI’ in return. This emotional night
bade the end of our French student exchange experience, but only the start of lifelong connections made between strangers during three wonderful weeks. On behalf of all the French host students and families, a huge thank you to Madame Cameron for organising everything and everyone. She did an absolutely marvellous job having only started teaching at All Saints’ College this year - c’est fantastique! Casey Hogue & Charlotte Willing – Year 12
Tips and techniques in portraiture workshops IN Semester 1, Year 10 Art students set to work on a portrait which they will submit for selection in the Black Swan Youth Portraiture Awards in September. THIS exhibition is Australia’s newest portraiture competition and encourages young artists to develop their talents in the field of portraiture. The Year 10s are each painting a wellrespected Australian of their choice. In Weeks 6 and 7 of Term 2, the students had an opportunity to attend two after-school Art workshops led by well-known portrait and landscape artist, Liz Gray. “Although I paint
a wide range of subject matter, I am drawn to that which makes the human being vibrant and whole, and so find myself constantly attempting to capture the figure in various states,” Liz said. “This often results in images of figures engaged in personal, often incidental activity but which through the depiction, attempts the poetic.” During these workshops the students listened to Liz talk about her art and how she
approaches portrait painting. They learnt about mixing skin tones, capturing likeness and personality in a portrait, and important tips and techniques for painting those difficult parts of a portrait – eyes and mouths! The students’ painting skills improved greatly during these two workshops and we thank Liz for sharing her talent and experience with the group.
Ms Louise Elscot – Senior School Art Teacher
the Dove – All Saints’ College 29
Senior School
Double triumph in major chemistry competition
Students negotiate their way to Hobart
TWO teams of All Saints’ College Chemistry students have secured a place in the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) Titration Stakes National Final, to be held at Murdoch University in August.
TWO All Saints’ College Year 12 students were announced WA finalists in the Hammarskjöld Trophy Competition recently, after displaying their best debating skills in Perth’s Parliament House.
THE announcement came following the teams’ success in the annual Titration Stakes Competition on 21 June at Curtin University in Bentley. The All Saints’ competitors proved tough to beat against 265 other students who formed 87 senior high school teams. The Year 12 All Saints’ team consisting of Mark Shelton, Xin Tan and Dean Choong, was presented with trophies after achieving a magnificent third place result. Year 10 students Megan Chidlow, Lauren Forster and Helena Tilley were the youngest team members on the night, with all other competitors being in Year 12. This made their exceptional second place result all the more impressive when they were called up to collect their awards. The competition involved experimentally calculating the concentration of three acetic acid solutions given a known hydrochloric acid solution and an unknown sodium hydroxide solution. This is a precise chemical technique that allows the concentration of one solution to be determined from a known solution. 30 the Dove – All Saints’ College
Their scientific skills were assessed by the professional body for chemists, the Royal Australian Chemical Institute. It was a valuable experience for the young competitors to work in a research laboratory under pressured conditions, with less than 2½ hours to complete the task. The All Saints’ students stayed back after school and in the evenings to learn and practise the fine art of acid/base titration. Their outstanding results reflected all the long hours and hard work they had spent preparing for the major Chemistry competition. All Saints’ College Senior School Chemistry Teacher Lyndon Smith said it was an exceptional performance from some exceptional students.
KATE Goodridge Griffiths and Keahn Sardinha will be one of five teams representing Western Australia in the National Final in Hobart this December. They will compete against 15 of the top schools from around Australia for the prestigious Evatt Trophy. Keahn achieved further recognition when he was announced Best Speaker in the WA Final. The Hammarskjöld Trophy Competition is a mock United Nations Security Council Competition and participants represent one of 15 Member Nations. The Competition is named after one of the most respected Secretary Generals of the United Nations,
Photograph courtesy of Community Newspaper Group.
Dag Hammarskjöld, who served from 1953 to 1961. Teams consist of two students from the same school in Years 10 to 12, who research their country’s policies and debate resolutions on current world issues such as those debated at the Security Council in New York. Each team is scored out of a maximum 100 points, based on the four areas of speaking, negotiation, research and teamwork. “The College is exceptionally proud of Kate and Keahn’s success in this highly demanding competition,” All Saints’ College Dean of Studies Toni Dale said.
“I found the Hammarskjöld Trophy Competition both engaging and challenging. As a team we faced many of Western Australia’s like-minded youth and our skills of compromise, public speaking and persuasion stood us in good stead to win a place in the national Evatt Trophy Competition in Hobart. We are both very excited to be attending the national competition later this year!” – Kate Goodridge Griffiths, Year 12 “The experience was absolutely worthwhile. Unlike conventional debating, Hammarskjöld takes place during the course of a day and requires teamwork and negotiation skills, rather than speaking and rebuttal alone. Because of this, there is a variety of ways to succeed and students who are unsure of their debating skills will find it a very enjoyable experience. The tournament organisers are excellent. United Nations Youth Association (UNYA) WA is run ‘by youth, for youth’ so the competition is tailored for students. As such, I commend the competition and encourage all students to enter next year, regardless of their debating experience.” – Keahn Sardinha, Year 12
the Dove – All Saints’ College 31
Senior School
Students step out on Sydney Dance Tour
University experience opens artistic minds
A GROUP of passionate Years 11 and 12 All Saints’ College Dance students and staff, pointed and flexed with some of the industry’s best-known performers when they embarked on an intensive week-long tour of Sydney from 16 April.
MICHELANGELO once said: “A man paints with his brains and not with his hands”, and in many ways, this is what the Years 11 and 12 Art students learnt during an intensive three-day excursion at Curtin University in Bentley.
THE tour itinerary was linked in with the Stages 2 and 3 Dance courses offered at the College which explore the themes of Popular Culture, Australian Dance, Youth Voice and Extending the Boundaries. The students were involved in various classes, forums and choreographic workshops throughout the week, led by some of Australia’s most experienced professional dancers and choreographers. They participated in a conditioning class, Ausdance workshops, a lyrical class at Sydney Dance Company studios and a workshop by Legs on the Wall Physical Theatre Company. “The Sydney Dance Tour gave students a taste of what it is like to work as a full-time professional dancer,” All Saints’ College Dance Teacher Narelle Codalonga said. “It was a wonderful opportunity for the students to engage in creative exchange with other dancers and choreographers in a supportive, non-competitive environment that encouraged participation and learning. It also provided networking opportunities within the Australian
32 the Dove – All Saints’ College
and international youth dance community,” Miss Codalonga said. Throughout the tour the All Saints’ group joined with Western Australian Dance students and staff from John Curtin College of the Arts and St Brigid’s College for various activities. The dancers were exposed to significant Australian cultural icons including the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and the Museum of Contemporary Art. They saw live performances of the Australian Ballet’s Madame Butterfly at Sydney Opera House; Sydney Dance Company’s Shared Frequencies at Sydney Theatre, and Mary Poppins the Musical at Capitol Theatre. Photograph courtesy of Community Newspaper Group.
OUR first practical session was with one of Curtin’s most respected painting lecturers, Michael Iwanoff. Michael coaxed us out of our comfort zones. We started by painting an entire still life in front of us with accuracy, however we soon discovered this was not the only way to approach a painting. Michael encouraged us to explore the language of mark making and to be expressive in our painting. We also had the pleasure of listening to Curtin University graduates, Clare McFarlane and Joanne Richardson, who talked about their artwork. We were all truly amazed by the beauty and intricacy of Clare’s pieces. Joanne’s work had a dark, comical side and she showed us a video of one project, a spin-off of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe to become Jo-Ann and the Masters of the University. The sculpture workshop was a highlight for many. Sculpture lecturers Shannon Lyons and Ben Kovacsky, taught us the process of mould making and casting, including alginate which has become many students’ favourite medium. This session resulted in the creation of a range
of moulds of students’ hands, feet, lips and faces. The final Saturday session was one of the most memorable due to the passionate character of the lecturer, Associate Professor John Teschendorff, a former college parent. John led us throughout the day, teaching us drawing strategies and the skills to see well and draw with accuracy, power and expression. The still life classes in painting and drawing taught us not to be so dependent on what we saw in front of us. Instead, we recorded the “thing-ness” of objects. We were all inspired by the words and teachings of lecturers, past graduates and practising artists, who gave us real insight into tertiary life and the contemporary Western Australian world of art. Jackson Lorrigan – Year 12
the Dove – All Saints’ College 33
Senior School
Students open their hearts to lend a hand YEAR 10 All Saints’ College students opened their hearts, rolled up their sleeves and reached out to various community service and charity groups as part of the school’s Helping Hands Project from 18-21 April. THE Helping Hands Project was launched at the College in 2005 and aims to develop socially responsible young people who find personal satisfaction from helping others. More than 130 students were split into small groups to complete 20 hours of compulsory community service work such as environmental rehabilitation at Bull Creek Wetlands and Penguin Island. One group stencilled drains throughout the local area with the message ‘Clean Drains River Gains’ as part of a stormwater pollution
awareness campaign for the South East Regional Centre for Urban Landcare (SERCUL). Other activities included garden maintenance for the elderly, cooking for Foodbank, sorting and cataloguing items for the Girl Guides and Salvation Army, and conducting important research for the National Trust’s Adopt-a-Grave program. A group of creative All Saints’ students supported the Uthando Project by making fabric dolls to send to African children living in poverty for comfort and expressive play.
“Our design idea was to paint a colourful rainbow onto the Crestwood Estate underpass in Thornlie, so that children walking through it on their way to the playground would be able to enjoy the bright, bold visual impact of pure colour. The underpass was 10 metres long, 3.5 metres high and 5 metres wide. It was a little daunting to begin with, but once we made a start we were all so happy with the colour. It looked awesome and helped us get through three days of hard, physical work. We all feel proud that we were able to give back to the community in such a creative and fabulous way.” – Painting team: Amelia Nicholson, Amelia Cairns, Auston Varan, Helena Tilley, Kate Shelton, Dewi Kardia, Emelia Quinones, Lily McAuliffe, Tiahna Oxenham, Keely Kenton, Kaitlin Cleghorn, Ms Louise Elscot & Mrs Rebecca Chapman 34 the Dove – All Saints’ College
Two rewarding community activities were added to the program for the first time this year. These involved painting a colourful rainbow mural along a pedestrian underpass in Thornlie’s Crestwood Estate and sewing fabric craft for the elderly residents of St Ives Murdoch. Students took pride in delivering their handmade craft items to residents at the end of their Helping Hands week including cushions, aprons, vanity bags, tactile boards and sensory objects. The elderly reminisced and chatted with their young
All Saints’ friends during the visit. “The Helping Hands Project provides a great opportunity for students to see what happens in the ‘real’ world, to work and interact with different groups of people, and to contribute something back to the local community,” All Saints’ College Helping Hands Coordinator Jo Boserio said.
“Four days, 16 students, two teachers, 48 mini fruit cakes, 1000 iced gingerbread biscuits and 1200 shortbread biscuits. This was our week in Helping Hands - cooking for Foodbank to give something back to the community. Helping Hands was a fantastic way to end the term, and we were all able to give something back to the community in a fun way. Thank you to the All Saints’ staff involved and the people at Foodbank. We all appreciated your help, and it made the week run smoothly. I hope our food made people’s Easter holiday a happy and fun time, and I strongly recommend cooking for Foodbank to any future students.” – Megan Chidlow on behalf of the Foodbank team
the Dove – All Saints’ College 35
Senior School
Fremantle backdrop inspires creative photography
Photograph courtesy of Community Newspaper Group.
Retreat reveals ‘true’ selves
YEARS 9 and 10 Photography students embarked on what promised to be a creative and inspiring day in Fremantle on 21 February and 25 March. ARMED with new digital SLR cameras and dressed in a variety of exotic costumes, we arrived at the E Shed Markets which was our first photographic backdrop for the day. We partnered up and listened to instructions from our teachers, Ms Gittos and Ms Wiedemann. Our aim for the day was to take photographs focusing on different depths of field. We took it in turns to snap away with our cameras and pose for pictures. Our next stop was at a tunnel near Fremantle Harbour which had interesting lines and shapes created by
pylons. Photographer Nathalie Daoust, inspired us with her beautiful pastel images on display in a Fremantle Art Centre, before we completed a worksheet and ate lunch under the shade of deciduous trees. We then visited the Old Fremantle Gaol which featured amazing aerial photographs by Richard Woldendorp. It was with disappointment that we continued onto our final destination of school! Rebecca Radny – Year 9
WHO is the true self hidden behind the mask?
Photography excursion captures the imagination YEARS 11 and 12 Photography and Design students viewed works by international photographers, Jesse Burke and Genevieve Thauvette, during a visit to Perth Centre for Photography on 2 March. AFTER an inspirational discussion and analyses of photographs, students made the journey to Hyde Park where they had lunch and used their creative minds and photographic skills to capture the peaceful surrounds. Many well-known guests visit All Saints’ College and stay in the College’s provided accommodation. A competition was instituted to decorate the house with photographs that capture the spirit and values of the College.
36 the Dove – All Saints’ College
There were many amazing entries and with some difficult decisions, we would like to congratulate the following winners: 1st Place: Emily McKay (Year 12) 2nd Place: Phoebe Chapman (Year 11) 3rd Place: Emily Strange, Sophie Arndt, Megan Chidlow (Year 10) & Emerson Day (Year 8)
MASKS and coffee cups became powerful and meaningful symbols for the 2011 cohort of Year 12 students during their Retreat experience in April. Barriers began to crumble as each student took off their mask, let down their defences and revealed the ‘true’ person within (or the ‘real substance’ within the coffee cup!). The Year 12s were split into two randomly selected groups, each group spending three
days at a camp site in Serpentine or Byford. Students participated in various activities designed to open their minds, provide opportunities for self-reflection, and connect with their peers on a supportive, deeper level. A bush dance, maze, guest speaker, letters from parents, How Bizarre Dinner, meditation, warm fuzzies and personal timeline, were all part of the Retreat journey of self-discovery, validation and connection.
“Thank you for all the time and effort you put into organising the Retreat. It was a great experience for Robert and it will be a wonderful, lifelong memory from his school days.” Steve & Gerda Banks (parents) “Thank you for the opportunity to participate in Retreat. I enjoyed it tremendously and was overwhelmed by the amount of organisational detail that went into preparing the camp – it really paid off. Judging from the emails we have received to date, both as a group and individually, the Retreat was a great success and really appreciated by our students.” Fred Schaffer (teacher) “I feel in love and awe of absolutely everybody.” Natalie Chiari (Year 12)
Urinetown the Musical YES, the rumours are true! There really is a musical called Urinetown and it really is about a drought-stricken future where public toilets are no longer free. THE premise, of course, is preposterous, yet that is what gives Urinetown its quirky charm. Urinetown the Musical parodies the traditional ‘uprising’ musicals such as Les Misérables and The Cradle Will Rock. The rebellious poor fight against the oppression of the economically sustainable yet corrupt ruling class. The hard-working and talented All Saints’ College Senior School cast and crew brought Urinetown to the stage from 27-29 July at John Curtin College of the Arts in Fremantle. The dedication and huge number of rehearsal hours were evident in the polished,
professional performances that audiences enjoyed. All Saints’ Head of Performing Arts Stephen Roberts said Urinetown presented a significant challenge for the students due to its presentational style and the skills required for the musical genre. “The musical score really was the heart of the show and set the All Saints’ cast and crew with the type of challenge they relished. The music was humorous and intelligent in the way it questioned the validity of the musical genre as a whole,” Mr Roberts said.
the Dove – All Saints’ College 37
1 2
From the Archive
25th anniversary of Year 12 Retreats
3
2011 SAW the 25th annual Year 12 Retreat held for All Saints’ students. THE first Retreats for Year 12s were held in 1987. In the early years at the College, there was some reluctance from both students and staff about what the Retreat experience might mean. However, it gradually became viewed as an appropriate final camp experience for Year 12 students. At the time they were introduced to All Saints’, other Anglican schools were not holding Retreats for their final year students but the program was widespread in Catholic schools. Each Year 12 cohort has generally been divided into three or four smaller groups for the Retreat. The usual practice is that Retreats are held for two or three days at a location away from the College. The first Retreats held in 1987 and 1988 were at Wollaston College in Mount Claremont, in 1989 at Point Peron, and then at several camp venues in Jarrahdale, Baldivis and Noalimba (the former migrant facility in Bateman). In 2005, Retreat was held on the College campus. In recent years, Retreats have been held at camp facilities in Serpentine and Jarrahdale. Retreats initially included discussion about vocation choices for the final year students, but as the careers advisory role developed within the College, it has become possible for the Retreats to focus on personal and group development. The first Retreats were organised by Rev. Dean Griffiths who was College Chaplain at the time. Moshe Price, Father Terry Curtis, Kent Williams, Mary Syme, Warren Marshall and Susan Wilson have all played a significant role in organising and shaping the Retreat program. Throughout the years they have been supported by many College staff, as well as staff from other schools. At some of the camps, invited speakers talked to the students and on occasions, former students spoke to the group about life after school.
The Retreat experience is greatly valued by both student and staff participants. Some impressions of the annual All Saints’ College Retreats have been included in the Columba yearbook: “The Retreats are designed to give students various skills to cope with the TEE year, and beyond. Around the theme of Living with Community, students will be involved in developing interactional skills, exploring personal and spiritual issues, reflecting on their life goals and vocational choices, and developing self awareness, interspersed with times of relaxation and study.” Parent Notice, 1987 “Whether it is the opportunity for some quiet reflection about self, family, friends; or getting in touch with their spiritual self; or building up team spirit; or simply getting to know others in a very real way – everyone departs changed and enriched. A mixture of physical, social, emotional and spiritual challenges is the secret formula, and happily many students are enthralled by it.” Rev. Dean Griffiths, Retreat organiser, 1990
“Aimed at helping the seniors to cohere for their last year in the College and build a friendship base for future years, the Retreats require a positive attitude and a happy disposition from all participants. Students who want to ignore their fellow students will soon find that Retreats crack their shells.” Father Terry Curtis, Retreat organiser, 1998 “Retreat is a time for fun, introspection, personalities and friends - it is about discovering who you are, and supporting others so they can do the same. There are also teamwork games, a ‘How Bizarre’ night, ‘warm fuzzies’ (not ‘cold prickles!’) and plenty of time for socialising.” Michael Bollig, Year 12, 2000 “The three days of Retreat were a truly amazing experience and it is hard to explain the fantastic atmosphere. The entire Year 12/13 group would like to express our thanks to the teachers who assisted on the Retreat Program. They
5
4
were, without a doubt, the group of people who brought the camp together. I was informed that Retreat is a time for self discovery, group discovery and individual realisations. For me it went something like this…’the world is our stage ironically, though maybe we should all stop acting, because true beauty shows when you perform from the heart’.” – Rebecca Cunnington, Year 12, 2004 “Retreat is definitely something you can only describe once you have experienced it; and even as I write this I find it difficult to articulate quite what I want to say. It changed our state of mind, our perspective on the year ahead, the years past, and all that life has to offer; each in the most positive of ways.” – Aidan Smith, Year 12, 2010
1. Students in reflection during the 1991 Year 12 Retreat. 2. A blindfolded activity develops trust and teamwork at the 1992 Retreat.
7 6
3. 1998 Retreat group photograph. 4. 1999 Retreat staff helpers: Dawn Clements, Robert Glasheen, Moshe Price, Janet Brown and Kent Williams dressed for the ‘How Bizarre’ dinner. 5. Participants have their legs tied together in this 2001 Retreat group activity. 6. A 2005 Retreat group activity held at the College. 7. 2011 Camp Retreat staff dressed up for the ‘How Bizarre’ dinner: Kent Williams, Father Braden Short, Gael Cameron, Susan Wilson, Grace Itzstein and Suzanne Felsinger.
Mrs Sue Sondalini – Archivist 38 the Dove – All Saints’ College
the Dove – All Saints’ College 39
Parents & Friends
From the Parents and Friends’ Society THE Parents and Friends’ Society began the year with their annual general meeting and the election of new committee members who were keen to contribute their ideas. THE Pasar Malam in February was an amazing success. A record number of people flocked to the fairway to kick-start the 2011 school year with a bit of fun at All Saints’. The Pasar Malam, which is wholly funded and organised by the P&F, is an event for every member of the College community to enjoy. The stalls at this year’s Pasar Malam were again popular, with many students setting up to fundraise for their particular charity or event. Food stalls and a licensed area provided a social and relaxed atmosphere on a Friday evening. There was a variety of activities, pony rides, games and challenges for every age group. A percussion band again added an extra dimension of colour and atmosphere to the evening. The Music Quiz Night in May was well attended, with all funds raised helping to support Music in the College. The Kids’ Club at the Quiz Night had 60 attendees and everyone 40 the Dove – All Saints’ College
seemed to enjoy the pizza and activities with Dave the Funnyman. After the success of last year’s 30th Anniversary Gala Dinner, a cocktail-style event is now in the planning stages. Students who are involved in the College’s Functions Committee have offered to help with the organisation of the event. All money raised from the cocktail function will go towards the College’s Kenyan Service Project to help provide resources for Teacher Benjamin’s school. Student sponsorship applications were strong in the first half of the year and all information regarding sponsorship is available from the P&F link on the College website. The babysitting file was modified and updated, making it more accessible and popular with parents. Several events were organised by the Parent Social Coordinators of each year group in the first half of the year, and contact lists were distributed
for social purposes only. The P&F funded some football goal posts and pads in the Junior School playground. These are proving popular with the Junior School students and we are very gratified with the response. We wish all students success in their school endeavours, and all College community members a wonderful second semester.
Mrs Stephanie Macdonald – P&F Society President
the Dove – All Saints’ College 41
Old Saints
From the Old Saints President
Sian Angel new President interview
WHY is it that when you’re at school the years seem to go by so slowly, but they fly by as soon as you graduate?
MORE than eight years since graduating from All Saints’ College, Sian Angel (née Morgan, 2002), is looking forward to giving back to her much-loved school after accepting the role of Old Saints President for 2011. In this interview, she discusses the direction of the Old Saints and reminisces about her fondest memories as a student, and how All Saints’ prepared her for life after school.
SCHOOL reunions are a definite reminder of this. The 2006 leavers celebrated a successful 5 Year Reunion in May, thanks to the organisation of Shannon Hoad. Although only five years have passed for those former students, it is always great to find out what people have been doing since leaving the College. It is going to be a busy second half of the year with the 10, 15, 20 and 25 Year Reunions still to come. Reunions are a good night to not only recount the years, but to recount the memories! The Old Saints does not solely focus on former students - we continually strive to form connections within the College community. Participating in the Careers Café is an important event where former students have an opportunity to discuss their career journey with current students. I’m sure many of us can remember the days of feeling a little lost at high school, so every bit of guidance helps. Former students mentoring current students of the College is a great service to provide and can be very rewarding. For more information about mentoring at the College please contact the Careers Counsellor, Grace Itzstein, via email at: Grace.Itzstein@allsaints.wa.edu.au. We are very much looking forward to hosting the Year 12 Barbecue for the second year, and speaking to students who will soon be embarking on their own adventures as former students of All Saints’ College. This year was the 10th Literature Festival and the Old Saints sponsored College mugs which were given to both presenters and staff. It was quite surreal attending the launch for the 10th Anniversary 42 the Dove – All Saints’ College
because I clearly remember being a student and introducing presenters at the first Festival! In order for you to stay connected with the Old Saints, please ensure the College has correct contact details so that you can be informed of reunions and other events involving former students. We need to remember that the College is relatively young and has many traditions still to be developed; however, these will not occur without you! Please feel free to contact the Old Saints with any ideas you have relating to the continued development of the Association. Email the Director of Community Relations, Anthony Radich, at: Anthony.Radich@ allsaints.wa.edu.au. Thank you to the committee members for your valued contributions and commitment to the Association, and to Dr Geoffrey Shaw, Anthony Radich, Karen Spencer and Sian Orchard for the support and assistance you provide.
to start creating traditions so there will be strong links in the future. At the moment, the main type of function coordinated by the Old Saints is reunions, but I’m sure there is much more we can be involved in and achieve. Q. Why did you choose education as your course of study after leaving ASC? A. I chose high school teaching because of the positive experiences I had as a student at ASC. So many of my teachers were supportive and helped me a lot. I wanted to teach and provide the same type of support to younger generations.
Q. What do you hope to achieve as the new Old Saints President? A. To help keep former students connected and to provide support and advice to current students.
Sian Angel (née Morgan, 2002) – Old Saints President
Top: Sian Morgan with the 2002 Durack House Captains and Head of House, Mrs Patricia Tyrrell. Bottom: 2002 Student Executive including Sian Morgan (middle row, second left).
Q. Why did you accept the role as President? A. To help continue the growth of the Old Saints so that former students can stay connected after they graduate from ASC. We are a fairly young school, but we need
Q. Why are you passionate about your role as a teacher? Did any of your teachers inspire you to pursue a career in education? A. Young people have great minds – they can surprise you each day with their creativity and opinions. As a teacher, it is a wonderful experience to provide students with opportunities to explore their potential. It’s hard to identify individual teachers who inspired me to pursue a career in education, as I was very fortunate to have many positive experiences in both primary and high school. The teachers who gave me time outside of the classroom,
who treated me as an individual, and encouraged me to develop my strengths – they were inspirational to me. The fact that I can’t choose one teacher shows the high standard of teaching at ASC. Q. What is your fondest memory of your time at ASC? A. Without a doubt, Camp Week was fantastic. Being able to choose a camp to attend in Years 10 and 11 was very exciting. I also enjoyed after-school sport and hanging with my friends at recess and lunch. Life sure changes after high school and you don’t get to see your friends as often as you would like. Q. What is the biggest change you have seen in the College since you graduated? A. The grounds have changed a lot and there are many new buildings. The Bush Court is gone, which feels weird – that’s where I used to eat lunch during Years 10 and 11! Quite a few teachers have left, but luckily there are still some familiar faces around the campus.
hardest to achieve them so that you don’t have regrets. It is sometimes difficult to know what you want to do in the future. If you achieve to the best of your ability at school, you will have more options to choose from when you graduate. Also, nothing has to be forever – don’t be afraid to change your mind – choose a path that is right for you. Q. What aspects of your time at ASC prepared you for life after school? A. Extracurricular activities such as coaching teams in after-school sport, being on the Student Council, attending student conferences, and mainly just being ‘involved’ in activities outside the classroom helped me to work in a team. I also developed organisational and leadership skills – aspects which are needed in life after school. I found that Year 12 Retreat had a significant impact on me at the time and the way I viewed my future. I still have my ‘warm fuzzies’ that were made on Retreat!
Q. Do you have any messages or advice for our current students? A. Set goals for your future and try your the Dove – All Saints’ College 43
Old Saints
Old Saints: in memory
5 Year Reunion: Class of 2006
A Dream Come True – Kate Bevilaqua (1994)
ON Friday, 27 May 2011, former All Saints’ students from the Class of 2006 attended their 5 Year Reunion at The Brisbane Hotel in Northbridge.
AFTER graduating from Human Movement at the University of Western Australia, I was fortunate to spend the next eight years teaching Physical Education at Christ Church Grammar School. During this time, I also developed an interest in the sport of triathlon.
WE did not expect such a great turn out given there were only 25 RSVPs leading up to the event, which made us speculate if it would still go ahead. But in true ’06 leavers’ style, once the word was out, more than 40 students were lining up to register and pay. The Brisbane Hotel put on amazing food in a lively venue, which made for a very memorable evening. It was so great to see old friends and catch up on everyone’s travels, studies and successes. Hearing about people’s accomplishments and endeavours made us realise that so much can happen in five years. It was great to hear about everyone’s different pathways since leaving school whether they were in the workforce, studying at university or TAFE, or experiencing the world through travel. We danced the night away into the early hours of the morning, with old and current friends. Thank you to Mr Anthony Radich for organising and making such a great night possible, and to Dr Geoffrey Shaw for attending. I am sure there will continue to be stories shared and friendships made until we meet again at the 10 Year Reunion.
AT first, triathlon was just a great way to keep fit and it complemented my job as a PE teacher. However, after a few trips overseas to compete and some top 10 results as an amateur, I took the plunge and applied for my professional license. I achieved some good results in my first year and decided that if I wanted to go all the way, I had to give triathlon my full attention. I resigned from my job to compete full-time, specialising in the Half Ironman (1.9km swim, 90km bike, 21.1km run) and Ironman Distance (3.8km swim, 180km bike, 42.2km run). I now split my year between Perth and Boise, Idaho in the USA. The past few years have been endless summers with some fantastic racing. In December last year, this finally climaxed with my first professional Ironman victory in Ironman Western Australia. It was a big year for me with six Ironmans. After the disappointment of the Hawaii Ironman World Championships, I was looking forward to racing in WA to finish the year on a high, before a break over Christmas. Leading up to the race I was pretty relaxed. Sure I had expectations, but it is always about executing my race plan and hoping the rest will follow. A trip to Margaret River early in the week provided relaxation, before driving to Busselton to deal with the hype that is Ironman! Race morning included the usual rituals, although much earlier than normal. With a
Shannon Hoad (2006)
44 the Dove – All Saints’ College
Thank you to those who attended: Alexandra Sheil, Jasmine Duthie, James Buckland, Stephanie Miller, Ziggy Atwell, Michelle Francis, David Stidolph, Fiona MacGregor, Joshua Wasley, Jasmin Reed, Sheridan Coleman, Scott Aitken, Peter Dolzadelli, Amy Prentice, Sean Collings, John Kirkwood, Phillippa Lambert, Luke Harris, Matthew Goor, Kate Bawden, Michael Jones, Clare Kenyon, Joseph Spinosi, Charlotte Saltmer, Amy Underwood, Hayley Hope, Shannon Hoad, Karyn Osmetti, Gabriella Pickering, Amy Seth, Geeta Shortt, Blake Lawrie, Reece Mouritz, Ben Drake-Brockman, Kit Sinclair, Matthew Groom, Michael Guthrie, Timothy Dick, Samantha Beeston, Clifford Willis, Tristan Ryan.
5.30am race start for the professionals, the alarm went off at 3.00am. That is even early for me! I had my typical pre-competition breakfast and we were on our way. The water was calm and I was looking forward to a great swim. I had been working hard on my swimming and this was reflected in my times in the pool. But again, it was not to happen in the open water. After staying with the main pack for a few hundred metres, I was left to swim the rest of the 3.8km solo! Onto the bike and I was well aware of the margin to catch the lead girls - I had my work cut out for me! However, Ironman is a long day and I was, as always, going to give it everything I had. After a short mechanical stop at the first roundabout, I was back on my bike and on my way in what were ideal conditions. The nature of the bike course allowed me to see the margin at each out and back, and it was encouraging to see the time come down. Riding back into town after each lap was incredible with the support of the local crowd. By the time lap three came around, if I continued the way I was riding, I calculated I may have the lead into T2 and was excited about that prospect. With my head down I went for it. Coming into transition, I still felt I had cycled within my limits and was ready to run a solid marathon. The plan was to take it out slowly! I have a habit of flying out of transition
and beginning the marathon too fast. I would love to negative split the 42.2km, but that will have to wait for another day. Before I knew it I had made the pass and all of a sudden I was leading the race. By the third lap of the run I knew the mental games would begin, but I continued to put one foot in front of the other and soak up the amazing atmosphere and crowd support. During the last lap I was still doing well and taking in gels and fluids at each aid station. With 2km to go, I began to feel the quads cramp and after the last aid station, they were starting to buckle underneath me. It was not a nice feeling at all. The last kilometre took forever. It became a fast walk, then a pull along the railing! All I could think to myself was, “not now, please not now!” I remember hearing the crowd cheering and screaming as I entered the finish chute, but the banner did not seem to get any closer. It was a struggle as I pulled myself along. I then realised there was a ramp up to the finish line. As soon as I tried to walk up it, my legs completely buckled and it was all over. I was still not there though! Crawling was the only option left. Once over the line, I was overcome by a feeling of absolute relief. I did it! I was not moving. I was completely and utterly exhausted!
This was the moment I had dreamt of my entire professional career, but I didn’t have enough energy to stand on my own two legs, to wave to the crowd or take in the moment. After the medical staff brought me back to life and I was able to open my eyes, a wide grin came across my face as I realised I had won! I was the Ironman Western Australia Champion for 2010. Nine hours and 20 minutes later and a new personal best, it was a great way to finish the year and gave me lots of confidence going into this 2011 season.
the Dove – All Saints’ College 45
Old Saints: where are they now?
Old Saints
From All Saints’ to university Rebecca Long (2010) IT CONTINUES to astound me how much the process of leaving school changes lives – even in the space of six months I cannot believe how much mine has changed! PERSONALLY, going straight to university from school was a good decision. Even the casual work that I did for three months between school and the start of university bored me to death! It convinced me that I did not want to do this for the rest of my life and I was desperate, not to mention excited, for the start of my new student life. University is an exciting prospect in so many ways. On ‘O’ Day (Orientation Day), new students are bombarded with clubs to join, activities to sign up for, friends to meet from all walks of life, parties to attend and opportunities for volunteer work. It is hard to remember there is some sort of academic learning that you still need to do! It is difficult not to fall into the trap of doing either everything or nothing, but I think the trick is to get involved with a few specific things and make them your niche. One great thing about uni life is a reformed attitude to study – instead of the Year 12-esque trying to beat each other and competing with other schools, an attitude develops where the
46 the Dove – All Saints’ College
whole cohort instead tries to beat the lecturer’s examinations! This is particularly the case in Medicine, where we have the same units and are such a close-knit group. Practice questions, past papers and notes are shared between the group because we would hate to see anyone fail. To the current Years 11 and 12 students, aim to look back on your time at All Saints’ and know that you made the most of it. Do not spend two years giving up on life for only study, and do not just live and give up on study. There is time for both! Plan your days and weekends to achieve balance, and set goals to get you through school with a smile! Best wishes to you all. Rebecca Long (2010)
Baby cousins born three weeks apart Double wedding celebration for jet-setting couple CAMERON Kerr (2001) was married to Kathryn McCarty in Glen Arbor, North West Michigan, USA on 25 September 2010. CAMERON, who is a commercial pilot, left WA in July 2007 to complete his studies in Northern Michigan, where he met Kathryn. The wedding took place among beautiful autumn colours at Thoreson Farm, Sleeping Bear Dunes, near the shores of Lake Michigan. The ceremony was followed by a reception at Kate’s Uncle and Aunt’s home on the shores of the picturesque Glen Lake. Cameron’s best man was Kate’s twin brother, Peter, and Kathryn’s bridesmaid was Cameron’s sister, Erin (2003). Due to the great geographical distance from Perth, only a small group of family and friends were able to attend in Glen Arbor. Brody Loneragan (2001) made the long trip to the wedding and played the couple to the altar to the hymn of Pachelbel’s Canon in D.
Cameron and Kate returned to Perth to spend Christmas and New Year with family in WA. On 2 January 2011 a re-affirmation service was held in the All Saints’ College Chapel and presided over by College Chaplain, Father Braden Short. Former College Captain, Warren Lynch (2001) and Cameron’s sister Erin, were the witnesses to the re-affirmation. Brody Loneragan again played the couple to and from the altar to the hymn of Pachelbel’s Canon in D. This was a lovely opportunity for all the local family and friends to attend the ceremony, which was followed by a celebration at the Royal Aero Club in Jandakot. The couple returned to Glen Arbor on 7 January 2011.
SISTERS Renae Brennan (née Spencer, 1998) and Simone Main (née Spencer, 1994), were delighted to welcome their babies only three weeks apart, at St John of God Hospital in Subiaco. CALEB Luke Brennan came into the world to the joy of his parents, Renae and Luke, on 11 April 2011 weighing 8lb 1oz. Caleb’s proud big sister Amelia, 2½ years, is enjoying doting on her baby brother and showering him with hugs and kisses. Simone and Andrew’s beautiful baby daughter, Isla Eden Main, arrived on 2 May 2011, weighing almost 7lbs, the first grandchild for Andrew’s parents who travelled from Adelaide to welcome her. Cousins Caleb and Isla are becoming good friends as they grow up together and spend precious time with their extended family. All Saints’ College Community Relations staff member, Karen Spencer, and her husband Tim, are the proud grandparents of these two little bundles of joy.
the Dove – All Saints’ College 47
ALL SAINTS’ COLLEGE Ewing Avenue Bull Creek Western Australia 6149 PO Box 165 Willetton Western Australia 6955 Junior School: Telephone
08 9313 9334
Facsimile
08 9313 5917
Facsimile
08 9310 4726
Senior School: Telephone
08 9313 9333
www.allsaints.wa.edu.au thedove – all saints’ college
48