Eagles' Wings Winter 2023

Ben Shepherd (Year 7)

Leadership for tomorrow

‘The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, or in an office.’ Dwight D Eisenhower

Among the pages of this edition of Eagles’ Wings resides a strong theme of leadership and its many manifestations in our community. As our world becomes more complex, unpredictable and connected, strong leadership will be a highly sought after element. Leadership lessons can begin in the earliest years of schooling. Such lessons should focus on the need for high-quality leadership at every level in our society, the definition of good leadership and the qualities, values, skills and behaviours inherent in successful leaders. Great discussions can be had over the greatest leaders in history and the circumstances that made them just the right leader for their time.

At Churchie, service is viewed as a significant component of leadership development. To serve is to lead. Mark 10:45 teaches us: ‘For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.’ Using one’s talents, treasures and, importantly, time to serve others is considered a very powerful way to learn about influence and leadership.

Casey House and Magnus House students developed their understanding of homelessness by participating in the Vinnies Sleepout. They gained a first-hand experience of the challenges of homelessness in our community. Armed

with this insight, one can imagine they are better prepared to bring new thinking and leadership to this societal issue in the future. The students of Goodwin House also embraced this challenge through their partnership with Emmanuel City Mission.

On campus, some of our youngest leaders have been commissioned to lead and serve in their Year 7 community. They provide some insights into how they are dispersing their responsibilities and what they are learning about human nature. As they develop a deeper understanding of the responsibility and privilege of leadership, they will be well prepared to offer these gifts to the wider communities in which they live in the years ahead.

At an earlier stage and critical time in their literacy development, our Years 3, 4 and 5 students are assuming the role of reading leaders as Prep School Reading Ambassadors. They are tasked with leading and encouraging the joy of reading and sharing with their peers how to delve deeper into the world of reading for enjoyment and learning. Such experiences ensure student leaders think about the needs and interests of others to promote reading as a lifelong skill for the benefit of all.

When one considers the many thousands of Old Boys who have led and served in myriad locations and vocations across the

world for over 100 years, it is exciting to imagine the important contribution our current students will make in the world when the time comes. Given the breadth of opportunities available at Churchie and the representation of leadership opportunities featured in these pages of Eagles’ Wings, I have no doubt they will make a great contribution.

Dr Alan Campbell Headmaster

Service in action: Grenfell House students preparing sandwiches for Eat Up Australia to be delivered to schools for children experiencing food insecurity.

Top ATAR achievers

Churchie’s class of 2022 achieved excellent academic results, among them being four students who received the highest possible ATAR of 99.95. Congratulations to John Lu, Chun Lee, Dashiell Young and Matthew Bond.

John Lu’s ATAR of 99.95 capped a very successful year. As Dux of the School in QCE and as a talented singer and debater, John represented the School with distinction across both academic and cocurricular dimensions. He is currently studying a Bachelor of Science at The University of Melbourne, having received a Melbourne Chancellor’s Scholarship.

In acknowledgement of his academic achievement, Chun Lee was awarded Proxime Accessit to the Dux in QCE. He also was involved in cocurricular music and debating. Chun accepted a UQ ViceChancellor’s Scholarship to study a Bachelor of Biomedicine (Provisional Entry into Medicine) at The University of Queensland.

In recognition of his hard work, Dashiell Young was awarded The John Crampton

Andrews Memorial Award for best exemplifying the four tenets of the School at Speech Night. As School Vice-Captain and member of the highly successful Churchie Premier Chess team for many years, Dashiell embodied the Churchie mission by involving himself fully across the life of the School. Dashiell has accepted a UQ Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship to study Doctor of Medicine (MD) as part of the Provisional Entry for School-Leavers programme at The University of Queensland.

Matthew Bond was the first Churchie student to achieve an IB score of 45 in the Diploma Programme, and he did so while studying an additional higher-level subject, a testament to his dedication to learning. Matthew received a UQ Vice-Chancellor’s

Scholarship to study a Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics (Honours) at The University of Queensland.

Congratulations to John, Chun, Dashiell and Matthew for each of your outstanding achievements and for being an inspiration to others.

Matthew Bond, Dashiell Young, Chun Lee, John Lu

Senior School leadership team

The Senior School leadership has a renewed structure, with new deputy roles focused on specific year groups. Head of Senior School Rod Olsen is now joined by Deputy Head of Senior School (Years 7 to 9) Berian Williams-Jones and Deputy Head of Senior School (Years 10 to 12) Josh Di Bella.

Berian Williams-Jones was most recently Director of Boarding at Brisbane Grammar School. He has an extensive background with senior roles in student management and pastoral care, curriculum development, data management and reporting at several schools in both Australia and the UK.

Berian’s role includes looking after the wellbeing of our Years 7 to 9 students and behaviour management. He enjoys working collaboratively with his colleagues to deliver events and experiences that students value and appreciate, and celebrating the success of students when they reach the goals or challenges placed before them.

Berian has settled into Churchie very well, noting, ‘I have found the boys to be academically ambitious, keen to be involved in cocurricular activities and, most of all, very proud of their school, and that says much for a Churchie education.’

Josh Di Bella is already well known to the Churchie community as Head of Year 7 and recently Acting Deputy Head of Senior School. Josh is responsible for the oversight of Churchie’s Pastoral Learning programme, working with students across a variety of pastoral matters, predominately in Years 10 to 12. During his time at Churchie, Josh has been involved across the life of the School, having welcomed many new families to the Senior School as Head of Year 7 and forming relationships that will continue to serve the community in his new role.

He loves to see each year level working cohesively together to achieve their own goals across all four tenets—academic excellence, spiritual awareness, personal growth and service—in a respectful and thriving environment.

be

ambitious, keen to be involved in cocurricular activities and, most of all, very proud of their school, and that says much for a Churchie education.

‘The structure of the School provides a lot of opportunity for boys to grow across all tenets,’ Josh said. ‘This creates a rewarding workplace.’

Josh Di Bella, Rod Olsen and Berian Williams-Jones

I have found the boys to

academically

Celebrating sacraments together

A beautiful Admission to Holy Communion Service was held on Wednesday 19 April in St John’s Cathedral.

This year, for the first time, we celebrated this special occasion with girls from St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School, along with their siblings. The service was jointly led by St Margaret’s Chaplain The Reverend Jazz Dow and Churchie Senior Chaplain

The Reverend Jessica Grant with Bishop Cameron Venables and representatives of both St Margaret’s and Churchie’s leadership present. Our two schools have a long tradition of collaboration in academic, sporting and cultural initiatives, a tradition enriched by the addition of this shared sacramental service.

Aspiring leaders

A group of Year 7 students are developing their leadership skills, taking on a variety of organisational and representative roles to form our next generation of student leaders.

Eighteen Year 7 Co-Captains (two per form class) are elected after a presentation to their respective groups and then are presented to the Year 7 cohort where they read out an oath that sets out the expectations of them for the year.

The co-captains have a variety of responsibilities, including organising the inter-form competitions and activities, developing their form class’s termly newsletter, assisting their form teacher during form class, presenting readings at chapel services, promoting student participation in service activities and representing Year 7 at cultural and sporting events.

The boys develop and improve their leadership, organisational, public speaking and relationship skills as the year progresses. As their confidence grows,

they learn to speak up and report issues they see among their peers.

Caleb Watson enjoys the extra responsibility, and his goals are to help his peers with their homework and studying. ‘Through being a Year 7 Co-Captain, I have learned to be patient and to trust others,’ Caleb said.

Archie Goodison’s favourite aspect has been organising activities that bring the Year 7s together as a cohort, particularly the Inter-Form Touch Rugby Competition. ‘I have been getting to know so many different boys, which has helped me to build on my communication skills. I keep being reminded that the things that make us different are what really help us to work as a team and to have fun together,’ Archie said.

2023 Year 7 Co-Captains

7.01: Jack Burke and Sam Butler-Wood

7.02: Archie Goodison and Lucas Shan

7.03: Caleb Watson and Jeb Barden

7.04: Joe Welsh and Oscar Moore

7.05: Rehan Mubarak and Archie Reilly

7.06: Jonathan Vickery and Max Johnstone

7.07: Jake Sheehan and Deric Zou

7.08: Bailey Watson and Henry Juniper

7.09: Sebastian Behrens and Isaac Gjorgioski

Mother’s Day appreciation

To celebrate Mother’s Day, Churchie mums and their sons shared two special events in May, the Football Mother and Son Breakfast and the Prep School Mother’s Day Chapel Service and High Tea. They were wonderful occasions to recognise and celebrate the special place and unique gifts of mums.

Oliver Stjepanovic (Year 10) and Marija Stjepanovic

Back: Margaret Thompson, Alex Burke, Hilary Kelly and Sarah Phipps. Front: Gus Thompson, Tom Burke, Sam Kelly and Sam Phipps (all Year 5)

Bhuddie O’Connor (Year 6), Anita O’Connor, Tracey Cameron and Kai Cameron (Year 6)

Kate Zavros Bode and Monty Bode (Year 9)

Diana Edwards and Charlie Finch (Year 10)

Music spectacular

An extraordinary showcase of musical talent unfolded during the May Concert Series. From the renowned Bands Concert to the Choral Concert and concluding with the Strings Concert, it was a captivating three weeks, showcasing the breadth and depth of Churchie Music.

New Director of Music

Churchie’s new Director of Music is well known to the community. Previously Head of Bands, Bohdan Davison commenced as director from the beginning of Term 2, after acting in the role during 2022.

Bohdan has played an integral role in the continual rise, development and breadth of Churchie Music for the past 10 years. Bohdan’s knowledge of the wider music community and his personal expertise, talent and dedication will continue to ensure our students and staff receive the best possible musical experiences as they pursue their passion for music.

New agribusiness course

Churchie students looking to develop their skills in agribusiness are taking advantage of a new-to-Churchie VET course, Certificate II in Rural Operations, in partnership with The University of Queensland Gatton Campus. The course provides an opportunity for students to develop foundational agricultural and horticultural skills.

Nine Year 10 students are participating in the inaugural year of the course at Churchie, visiting the UQ Gatton campus with Housemaster Ian Jones for three to four days each term to complete the practical components of the course.

They have also been carrying out some plant propagation work in the garden beds on Smith Field, and they are required to complete written assessments, online quizzes and skills portfolios as part of the programme.

Year 10 boarder Harry West said, ‘Our group visited Pohlman’s Nursery and experienced what was involved in the day-to-day practices of a large-scale horticultural business. From there we experienced how robotics selected viable seedings and transplanted them into trays to be transferred to the main greenhouses, producing around 24 million plants on 80 acres throughout the year. We have also learned about the science and mechanics behind engines.’

Students can use the Certificate II in Rural Operations as a pathway to further agricultural and agribusiness qualifications, such as a Certificate III in Agriculture or a Diploma of Agribusiness Management, and we look forward to seeing where this opportunity takes them in the future.

Boarding and the arts

Year 11 boarder Tom O’Neill hails from Mount Isa and is a passionate student of both film and theatre.

Tom is completing the IB Diploma Programme pathway at Churchie and is enjoying the opportunity to work collaboratively in both his film and theatre classes.

‘So far I’ve found it challenging but also rewarding,’ Tom said. ‘It’s supported my passion for film and theatre, allowing me to explore the international side of these arts and create films in a more professional environment.’

The Churchie Boarding programme has provided the support Tom needed to pursue his interests, including leave to attend acting classes outside of school. Tom has also taken advantage of the cocurricular programme at Churchie, participating in school musicals such as the recent The World Goes ‘Round performed at Somerville House and last year’s Singin’ in the Rain performed at Churchie.

Boarding at Churchie has been very conducive to Tom’s studies, with the structured nature of the programme allowing him to set study times easily and the central location on campus saving time to get to cocurricular activities and early morning classes.

Following his studies at Churchie, Tom hopes to complete an acting course and make his way into the acting industry.

Friendly rivalry

Fun family nights in Gerald House are honouring the boarding house’s tradition and building community around friendly sports competitions.

At the end of Term 1, Gerald boarders and families gathered to witness the final battle for the Shane Smith Trophy, awarded to the winner of the Gerald House table tennis competition.

Gerald House Captain Patrick Gearing said, ‘The evening was filled with laughter, good food and friendly competition as the parents and boys enthusiastically cheered on the finalists. After several rounds of intense competition, Year 11 student Benjamin Donger from Sunshine Beach emerged as the champion of the tournament, taking home the coveted title and trophy for the second year in a row.’

The competition was introduced by previous assistant housemaster Tim Christie three years ago and is a knock-out style tournament with the finals played on the last night of Term 1. It honours long-term Churchie staff member Shane Smith, who was housemaster of Gerald for several years. Shane was present to award the trophy.

In Term 3, Gerald House also holds the John Krasniewicz Pool Competition, which was introduced by John Krasniewicz, another long-serving Churchie staff member, who established the competition in 1993 when he was assistant housemaster.

Such community events are a great way for the boys to share a snapshot of Churchie Boarding life and house culture with their families.

Inspiring mission

Year 11 Goodwin House students have commenced a partnership with Emmanuel City Mission, where they will visit once a fortnight to serve those experiencing homelessness in Brisbane.

Year 11 student Noah Monahan was inspired to act after finding out a young family friend of his had fallen into the cycle of homelessness last year. As part of the Year 11 social justice project, Noah and his Goodwin House peers brainstormed ideas for how they could positively impact the homeless community in Brisbane. They decided to volunteer their time at Emmanuel City Mission, an organisation

that provides a sanctuary in south Brisbane for those experiencing homelessness.

Emmanuel City Mission offers nutritious food, showers and washing facilities, clothing and toiletry packs, and a safe space free from the chaos and isolation of the streets. The students will visit fortnightly to make breakfast, sort donations, help clean the facilities and chat with people there. The first visit was early

one morning in June, with nine Goodwin boys visiting Emmanuel City Mission for the first time.

Noah said, ‘Visiting the mission has changed our perspective on life and the world around us forever. Offering a helping hand for breakfast, lunch and dinner or providing laundry services and a warm shower can go such a long way in changing a person’s life.’

Experiencing homelessness

Year 11 students from Magnus and Casey Houses braved a cold June night as part of a Vinnies Sleepout to experience a snapshot of life as a person experiencing homelessness in Australia.

Their evening began in the city learning about different forms of homelessness from Dan, Sam and Jack from the St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland, commonly known as Vinnies.

Next, it was time for dinner. However, as part of the challenge, the boys received only $2 each to spend. Most boys purchased bread but found themselves still hungry afterwards.

After dinner, the boys were each allocated a location to sit for 40 minutes and reflect on the experience as well as observe their surroundings and identify the most likely place they would choose to spend overnight if they were in need.

Year 11 student Alistair Bowden said, ‘We learned about hostile architecture, which is infrastructure that makes sleeping in parks and malls uncomfortable, such as metal bars on chairs so you can’t lie on them and loud classical music playing.’

It was then time to head to the sleeping location for the evening and prepare for bed.

‘I forgot my sleeping bag, so I didn’t get much sleep at all,’ Alistair said. ‘From about 3:30 am onwards, I gave up. It was freezing cold.’

Reflecting on the experience, Year 11 student Addison Edmonds said, ‘It was a great snapshot into homelessness, but we are well aware that it is not the real experience. Actual homelessness would be much worse because although we were uncomfortable, we were safe. Feeling uncomfortable is very different to feeling unsafe. We weren’t in any danger and had no fear of our stuff being taken.’

Magnus House began its association with Vinnies in 2018 when the students chose homelessness as the focus area for their Year 11 social justice project.

Housemaster John Callie said, ‘We decided to immerse and learn about the issue of homelessness first-hand to gain a better understanding of how it feels and how it looks to be protagonists for change and understanding in our communities. This year, we were pleased to welcome Casey House for the first time.’

Actual homelessness would be much worse because although we were uncomfortable, we were safe. Feeling uncomfortable is very different to feeling unsafe.

Volleyball premiers

The Churchie Volleyball programme concluded the 2023 season on an exhilarating note, securing an unprecedented 14 GPS premierships across all year levels.

From the First VI to our Prep School 6A team, Churchie Volleyball displayed remarkable success this year with every year level achieving a premiership position.

The First VI, Second VI, Third VI, Fourth VI, 11B, 11D, 10D, 9B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8B, 7C and 6A teams all finished at the top of their divisions—an incredible success that highlights the resilience, perseverance, teamwork and sportsmanship of Churchie’s volleyball community.

The First VI led the charge this year with an exceptional display of skill and determination, remaining undefeated throughout the entire season. Their journey to the premiership faced a formidable challenge from Gregory Terrace in round nine being pushed to five thrilling sets for the first time in their season. However, their determination drove them to victory.

Special recognition to the Second VI for their outstanding achievement as premiers in their own right. Despite their triumph, they seamlessly transitioned into the

demanding and high-pressure role of officiating the First VI games immediately after their own victory. Their commitment to maintaining impartiality and resilience under intense pressure exemplifies their character and dedication.

Director of Churchie Volleyball Carrie Mill expressed immense gratitude to the

entire volleyball community for their unwavering support and enthusiasm throughout the season.

Individual excellence was also celebrated, with Luka Sazdov named Most Valuable Player and Nicholas Lacheca presented the Spirit of Volleyball award. The First VI was awarded Team of The Year.

Emerging art prize winners

Congratulations to this year’s prize winners at the churchie emerging art prize. The exhibition is open until 19 August 2023 at the Institute of Modern Art, Fortitude Valley.

Joel Sherwood Spring is the overall winner of ‘the churchie’ 2023. The Sydney-based Wiradjuri artist took home the $15,000 nonacquisitive cash prize.

Joel’s video, Diggermode (2022), was selected by guest judge Tara McDowell, Associate Professor and Director of Curatorial Studies at Monash University.

‘Diggermode asks how materials are implicated in the ways we imagine the world; how we might engage with materials differently if we think about their provenance, where they’re extracted from, and what that means going forward,’ Joel said.

The Special Commendation Prize of $5,000 was awarded to Gamillaraay artist Debbie Taylor Worley. Sam Whiteley Highly Commended Memorial Prizes of $1,000 were awarded to Melbourne-based Alrey Batol and Sydney-based Luke Brennan.

‘the churchie’ is made possible thanks to the support of generous sponsors.

Thank you to prize sponsors BSPN Architecture, Fardoulys Constructions and Madison Cleaning Services; principal sponsors Chartwells, Thynne + Macartney, Tierra Group, Spicers Retreats, Brisbane City Council and the Churchie Old Boys’ Association; and co-sponsors Jeremy Ferrier Landscape Architect, Furnware,

Sunstate Charters, Morgans Financial Limited and Look Education.

Since its inception in 1987, the churchie emerging art prize has sought to identify and profile rising artistic talent. Now in its 36th year, ‘the churchie’ is recognised as one of Australia’s leading prizes for emerging artists.

Debbie Taylor Worley, Earth and Water and Let There Be Trees, Metro Arts Gallery.

Tara McDowell (judge), Joel Sherwood Spring (overall winner), Sebastian Henry-Jones (curator).

Inventing for good

The Prep School STEM Club is a cocurricular activity for students in Years 3 to 6 that provides hands-on, inquiry-based projects that foster boys’ interests and skills across the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

This year, STEM Club students completed an ‘Invent for good’ challenge, where they were tasked with inventing a product to make a difference in someone else’s life.

Year 4 students Jack Lange, Caiden Dastoor and Will Parry worked together to invent a product that uses voice activation to cut fruit for people with disabilities.

Jack said, ‘My favourite part of STEM Club is working together with Caiden and Will to build things with Sphero littleBits.’

Caiden also enjoys working with his friends in STEM Club. ‘I love the challenge,’ he said.

Will said, ‘There are so many fascinating things to discover in STEM Club, and I love making things and figuring out how things work.’

Most STEM Club projects embed the design thinking process, which typically includes empathising, defining, ideating, prototyping and testing stages. They encourage collaboration, critical and creative thinking, and iteration. By tackling real-world problems using a human-centred design approach, students can develop their problem-solving skills, empathy and creativity while creating meaningful solutions. STEM Club, operating out of The Hive, provides opportunities for boys to engage in projects such as:

• physical computing that combines computer programming with electronics to create interactive and tangible systems

• IoT (internet of things) that explores networks of physical devices with embedded sensors, software and connectivity and how they are used to collect and exchange data

• protot yping using The Hive’s makerspace prototyping tools including a laser cutter and a bank of 3D printers

• CAD (computer-aided design) and 3D printing that allow design solutions to extend beyond a low-fidelity prototype towards a more realistic end-user product.

STEM Club is led by Churchie’s Design and Digital Technologies Coordinator Jade Frewin.

Prep School STEM Club students have explored ways to use technology to improve the lives of people with disabilities.

Jack Lange, Caiden Dastoor and Will Parry

There are so many fascinating things to discover in STEM Club, and I love making things and figuring out how things work.

Reading leaders

Reading is a popular pastime in the Prep School, with our new Reading Ambassadors leading the way.

Each term, three boys from Years 4, 5 and 6 will promote a love of reading across the Prep School by recommending books to others, talking about their favourite authors, reading to Reception to Year 3 children and promoting reading events at school.

Joe El Gazzar from Year 4, Aariz Bansal from Year 5 and William Clark from Year 6 were thrilled to be announced as the first reading ambassadors in Term 2.

Joe loves promoting books and encouraging others to read. ‘It’s all about finding the right series for you,’ he said. ‘I enjoy the Friday Barnes and Nanny Piggins series by RA Spratt.’

William believes it’s also important to discover which genres you most enjoy reading. ‘For me, that’s action and comedy,’ he said. William’s favourite author is

Pittacus Lore, author of the Lorien Legacies series, and he also recommends the Skulduggery Pleasant series by Derek Landy.

Aariz says he’s been really into reading since he was around five or six years old. ‘I like reading before bed as it helps me calm down if I’ve had a really long day,’ he said. Aariz’s favourite authors are Anh Do and Kate and Jol Temple, and he also recommends Eddie Woo’s Magical Maths Joe enjoys encouraging other students to attend the reading events that happen annually, such as the Brisbane Writers Festival where he met two of his favourite authors, Kate and Jol Temple.

‘Kate and Jol were funny and engaging.’ Joe said. ‘Both started writing stories when they were in about Year 3, and their

first book was published over 10 years ago. They have written the Bin Chicken series and The Underdogs series, both of which are hilarious.’

Prep School Teacher Librarian Alison Findlay said the Reading Ambassadors programme was created to promote the joy of reading and encourage independence in the boys as readers.

‘It’s about giving ownership of the reading initiatives back to the boys and supporting student agency,’ she said.

The Prep School teacher librarians look forward to announcing another three reading ambassadors in Term 3.

Aariz Bansal, William Clark and Joe El Gazzar

From the Chairman of the Churchie Foundation

I begin by thanking Mr Russell McCart for five years of service as Churchie Foundation Chairman and 13 years as a director.

To improve our communication processes and community knowledge of the role of the Churchie Foundation, the board has considered and approved a communications plan recommending the establishment of a stand-alone website for the Foundation. This will be an important communication tool to assist in informing and engaging with current and prospective donors. It will also enable the implementation of regular digital communication, such as a half-yearly newsletter, and provide a platform for sharing current and newsworthy stories about the Foundation’s activities and impact (including bequests, bursaries and pledges).

Over recent years the Churchie Foundation has actively supported and had representation at rural events as part of the School’s Boarding on the Road programme, which serves to strengthen relationships with the boarding community. Embracing this initiative, in 2022 the Foundation Directors and the School’s Director of Engagement (Old Boys and Foundation) attended several events. This has continued in 2023 with attendance at events and functions in Toowoomba, North Star, Muttaburra, Emerald and Noosa.

Arising from this strategy, the Foundation is currently creating a new prospectus that outlines the history and impact of giving at Churchie and details the scope of the Foundation’s operations. This will be accompanied by ‘call to action’ leaflets, which will be an important tool in relaunching the Foundation’s programmes to support bursaries, bequests, pledges and philanthropy generally.

We continue to receive inspiring reflections from recipients of the Overseas Study Scholarship, which is managed by the Churchie Foundation and provides for Old Boys undertaking undergraduate or postgraduate study in the USA or UK. It is wonderful to see the benefits of such a programme in influencing the further

development of our young Old Boys’ confidence and character. On the adjacent page, please take time to read about the life-changing experiences of three of our Old Boys who are recent recipients of this scholarship.

In closing, I am pleased to confirm that School Council has reappointed Don Home (1978) and Steven Ting (1994) as Councilappointed directors. Their term is for another two years.

Craig Spencer (1975) Churchie Foundation Chairman

It is wonderful to see the benefits of the Overseas Study Scholarship in influencing the further development of our young Old Boys’ confidence and character.

Overseas Study Scholarship programme

Since 1992, over 100 Churchie Old Boys have advanced their careers and gained invaluable international study experience with the support of the Overseas Study Scholarship programme. The scholarships, made available through grants from an American Charitable Trust established by an Old Boy of the School, are open to students undertaking either undergraduate or postgraduate study at colleges or universities in the UK or USA.

Will Bruhn (2020)

Since graduating from Churchie, I have been studying a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics and Finance) at The University of Melbourne. Studying overseas has always been a major goal of mine, and, in the second half of 2022, I had the privilege of making this a reality by undertaking an exchange programme at The University of Manchester, where I continued my Bachelor of Commerce. The diverse array of subjects meant I was able to enrol in subjects of great personal interest to me. I immersed myself in all the university had to offer, including joining the cross-country team and attending many international society events. I made lasting friendships with locals and exchange students from across the world. While academics were my focus, I took advantage of all England and Europe had to offer in terms of food, culture and history.

Overall, my exchange programme in Manchester was an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend the opportunity to study overseas to anyone, whether it be at an exchange level, masters or a whole undergraduate degree. I was challenged as a person and student and believe I have grown in a multitude of ways.

Michael Gianarakis (2014)

In a Year 8 letter to my Year 12 self, I wrote that my future entailed embracing the experiences and challenges of life abroad. In 2019, this dream began when I started medical school at the University of Nicosia in Cyprus studying a programme delivered by St George’s, University of London. Living and studying in the island nation of Cyprus was an incredible experience. I immersed myself in the Greek language and culture, and mixed with students from diverse cultures, religions and countries.

I undertook my core clinical rotations at Swedish Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, for my final two years of medical school. Seeing rare diseases and learning from patients with incredible stories and who spoke languages I had never heard of was an enriching experience. I also embraced Chicago’s vibrant food and sports culture, including watching the Cubs, Bulls and Bears play in their historic stadiums.

While I’ve been fortunate to experience other cities and healthcare settings, I look forward to continuing my medical career in Chicago having secured a residency position in Internal Medicine at the University of Illinois Chicago Medical Center.

The last four years have been an incredibly fulfilling personal and professional experience, during which I have gained many lifelong friends and mentors.

Shaun Milligan (2012)

Undertaking legal studies at Churchie set the foundation for my path to studying law. Recently I had the privilege of completing a year-long postgraduate Bachelor of Civil Law at Magdalen College, University of Oxford. I studied public and private international law, focusing on business and human rights. Taught by some of the world’s leading academics in their respective fields, I feel grateful to have learned from such a talented and diverse group of individuals while immersed in such beautiful and inspiring surroundings. A highlight was winning a public international law moot with my mooting partner.

I also took advantage of all Oxford has to offer, immersing myself in the city’s rich culture and history, and participating in many extracurricular opportunities. I attended numerous Oxford Union debates and speaker events and participated in various clubs and societies where I made lasting friendships with people from around the world. Travelling to other parts of the UK and Europe during the year was also a highlight.

The personal and academic growth that comes with studying in a new country is truly unparalleled. I feel lucky to have had such an incredible and transformative experience.

OLD BOYS’ ASSOCIATION

From the President of the Old Boys’ Association

Our achievements during the past six months can be captured in one word—engagement. Three important elements in facilitating and sustaining engagement among Churchie Old Boys’ Association (OBA) members are systems, activities and resources.

the Queensland Cricketers’ Club, we launched Viking Careers, our mentoring and job search initiative.

Activities

The last six months have been busy for the OBA. November saw an energetic and well-attended AGM with the election of a new member to our committee, James Gibney (2009), to fill a recent vacancy. This has led to the creation of a new sub-committee to lead our Viking Careers initiative comprising James Gibney (2009), Ben Crow (2006), Krishna Pabari (1988), Grant Menzies (1988) and Henry Friend (2016).

Andrew Fleming

President

Systems

Our new portal, the COBweb, is well known to many of our life members. Since its launch in 2021, we have added a new initiative each year. Viking Wellness was launched in 2021 with the 1300BLUEGREY free counselling line for mental wellness. Soon we will be adding prostate health resources in partnership with ManUp! (run by a Churchie family, Jill Costello and her daughter Leah Costello). In 2022 we launched our Connect and Play initiative to promote and reward Old Boy participation in several sporting and other activities. Last year also saw the launch of new competitions in chess and golf. This year, at the OBA Long Lunch on Friday 26 May at

The first activity for 2023 was a gathering of Old Boys in Canberra on Monday 6 March. Other get-togethers are planned this year for Sydney, London, Melbourne and Townsville. We have also taken the opportunity to extend liaison with other schools including Moreton Bay College and our sister school, St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School. On Anzac Day the OBA hosted 110 Vintage Vikings and their connections. This year’s reviewing officer was Brigadier Simon Johnstone CSC (1988), a current serving officer and son of former Head Chaplain The Reverend David Johnstone. In June several committee members joined the School’s Boarding on the Road programme at the Muttaburra Stock Show and the Roma Rugby Race Day.

For our third Long Lunch event, which was brought forward to Friday 26 May to align

more closely with the OBA’s birthday of 23 May, we assembled a panel of five prominent Old Boys to illustrate the diversity of backgrounds among our alumni and to launch Viking Careers. Our aim is to build a growing pool of mentors across a diverse range of professions, trades and vocations who can provide advice and guidance to our younger members as they negotiate study, training or their early working careers. It also provides a free facility for businesses within the Churchie community to advertise job opportunities, internships and apprenticeships. As with all our initiatives, Viking Careers is anticipated to develop and prosper in years to come through the collective input of many interested Old Boys. For more information, please email oba@churchie.com.au or call 07 3896 6462.

Resources

Your association’s financial strength continues to improve to ensure we can deliver engagement in many forms to members well into the future.

I have already commented on the OBA Committee, who have been working collegiately and positively on many of the initiatives already outlined.

We farewelled long-serving committee member Tim Harland (1963) at our March meeting and were pleased to confer upon him honorary life membership in recognition of over 20 years of service to the OBA and to the School as a rugby referee.

(1979)

Many Old Boys have received honours and awards for distinguished service and recognition for professional and sporting successes. Their achievements are detailed in a separate listing and have also been published on the COBweb. To these gentlemen—congratulations!

Lastly, I acknowledge the efforts of Director of Engagement David Miles, who continues to make a significant contribution to the administration of the association, as well as his colleagues Casey Ouston and Max Bell (2018) who has left to join his family’s business. We are also pleased to welcome Sophie Mitchell to the team.

Engagement will continue to be central to our activities in 2023, with more enhancements to functionality and increasing inclusion among our diverse members.

Achievements and honours

We proudly acknowledge the Churchie Old Boys who have been recognised with honours and representative positions this year.

Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia

James Bradley (1967) for significant service to medicine in the field of anaesthetics.

Roger Grigg (1983) for significant service to medicine in the field of otolaryngology head and neck surgery.

Robert Whitby (1967) for significant service to medicine in the field of infectious diseases, and to tertiary education.

Public Service Medal (PSM)

Donald Bletchly (1973) for outstanding public service to Queensland public transport systems and security.

Australian Police Medal (APM) Bradley Wright (1982)

Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in the General Division

John Cox (1962) for service to medicine as a paediatrician. Philip Greenwood (1968) for service to the not-for-profit sector and the community.

Graeme Haussmann (1944) for service to engineering and the community.

Ross McConachie (1975) for service to Australia–Japan relations and to business.

Sydney reunion: Doug Kirkham (1985) and Lex Hansen (1957)

Sydney reunion: Lachlan Fleming (2016), Patrick Thiess (2006), Geoffry Underwood (1966), Adrian Townley (1994)

OLD BOYS’ ASSOCIATION

OBA reunions and events

Canberra reunion

OBA Long Lunch: Tim Atherton (1970), Jacob Marchant (2020), Ben Volkman (2014)

London reunion

OBA Long Lunch: Ricky Burnton (2014) and Ash Holmes (2014)

OBA Long Lunch

OBA Long Lunch panel: Evan Bancroft (1979), David Crombie (1961), Nick Malouf (2010), John Millman (2006)

OBA Long Lunch: Warwick Adeney (1980)

Vintage Vikings Morning Tea and Lunch

Jackie Bell and Peter Ascough (1970)

1958 Old Boys with spouses

Alex McNeill (1947) with oldest Old Boy Tony Osborn (1942)

Michael Garratty (1963), Greg Vickery (1963), Ian Goddard (1963), John Wightman (1964), John Matthews (1963) Wendy Ward, John Davey (1961), Sheryl Ross, Rob Ross (1962)

David Bell

David Bell faithfully served the Churchie community from 2006 to 2015 in senior roles including Deputy Head of Middle School – Student Services and Administration, Head of Faculty Social and Emotional Development and Outdoor Education, and Director of Staff Development. David was also a boarding tutor throughout his entire time at Churchie and had a particular passion for teaching English, humanities, literature and military history.

David’s love, commitment and expertise for a broad range of sports, particularly rugby, was legendary across the GPS community. His coaching career in the sport reached the highest state and national levels. His coaching expertise also extended to swimming, basketball, track and field, and cross country. David was also a valued member of the School’s Tri-Service Cadets programme for many years. David’s depth and range of knowledge

in myriad topics and his enthusiasm for teaching and coaching have been widely acknowledged and respected throughout the Queensland education community.

David had an extraordinary career serving four GPS schools in senior roles after graduating from Brisbane Grammar School. At the time of his passing, David was serving the Brisbane Boys’ College (BBC) community as Head of Middle School. At the football and tennis fixtures on Saturday 7 May, Churchie hosted BBC during which the boys of the First XI football teams, coaches, staff and parents in attendance observed a moving tribute on Main Oval in memory of David and his loyal service to our respective communities.

Many Churchie Old Boys will fondly remember David’s sense of humour, dedicated teaching and coaching, and devoted care for their growth and development.

Vale

Name Years at Churchie

Kenneth Alan Archer (1945)

Kenneth Clive Baddiley (1959)

Lex Bendixen (1949)

Glenn Watkin Bettridge (1960)

1941 – 1945

1956 – 1957

1946 – 1949

1955 – 1960

John-Charles Andrew Allen Brennan (1998) 1994 – 1998

Brendan Raymond Burmeister (2007)

Frank Edward Burtt (1958)

Glenn Francis Cameron (1969)

Ian George Dewar Cameron (1946)

Robert Eric Harry Chambers (1956)

Norman Robert Cuzens (1954)

John Derek Dickey (1956)

Noel Leonard Dickinson (1962)

Raymond Cecil Dodd (1946)

20 00 – 2004

1955 – 1958

1961 – 1969

1938 – 1946

1953 – 1956

1948 – 1954

1949 – 1956

1957 – 1960

1943 – 1946

Kenneth Alan Dowell (1949) 1943

Ross Whyte Downes (1951)

1948 – 1951

Cameron Leonard Marwood Elliott (1988) 1983 – 1988

We respectfully acknowledge the passing of the following Old Boys.

To help ensure Old Boys are recognised appropriately, please send notifications to oba@churchie.com.au.

Ken Archer (1945)

In 1945 Ken Archer AM was Churchie’s School Captain, a prefect and Magnus House Captain. He excelled in many sports, playing in the cricket First XI for three years including as captain in 1945, the rugby First XV for two years and in track and field.

Ken made his A-grade cricket debut for The University of Queensland in 1943 and his Sheffield Shield debut in 1946–1947 playing a total of 55 matches for Queensland. In 1949–1950 he toured South Africa with the Australian team, scoring 826 runs in 24 innings. Ken’s test debut was in Melbourne in 1950–51 where he scored 26 and 46 in Australia’s 28-run defeat of England. He played five tests with a batting average of 26.

An exceptional fielder, Ken was offered a contract to play professional baseball in the USA, which he declined.

He taught science at Churchie from 1947 to 1953 before moving into broadcasting at 4BC and later becoming CEO of the Commonwealth Broadcasting Corporation.

In 1980 Ken was named a Member of the Order of Australia in recognition of services to the media, and in 2000 he was awarded the Australian Sports Medal for his cricketing achievements.

At the time of his passing, Ken was Australia’s oldest living test cricket player.

Ian Cameron (1946)

Dr Ian George Cameron AM attended Churchie from Year 4 to matriculation, spanning nine years from 1938 to 1946.

He graduated in civil engineering from The University of Queensland in 1951 and was a pioneer in the introduction of prestressed concrete in Australia. In 1960, with his friend and fellow Churchie Old Boy Graham McNamara (1946), he established Cameron McNamara Pty Ltd, a civil engineering consultancy, which grew to be the largest in Australia.

In 1993 Ian was awarded Queensland Engineer of the Year, and in 1996 he received an Honorary Doctorate from QUT. In recognition of his expertise in the field of water engineering, Ian was awarded a Churchill Fellowship for research into the biological removal of contaminants from water in 1998. In 2001 he was awarded a Centenary Medal for service to Australian society in civil and structural engineering, and in 2009 was named a Member of the Order of Australia in recognition of service to civil engineering, particularly in the area of bridge construction, dispute resolution and to professional and community associations. This included serving as the first Chairman of the Churchie Foundation from 1990 to 1994. In 2013 he was inducted into the Queensland Hall of Fame for Engineers Australia.

Ian is survived by his wife of 68 years, June Cameron, his four children and 10 grandchildren.

Name Years

Jeffrey Bass Finch (1954)

Murray Allan Roy Gardner (1958)

John Maclean Genn (1946)

1950 – 1952

1955 – 1958

1943 – 1946

Michel Raphael George Grasyan (1958) 1957

Colin Charles Gregory (1948)

Neville Malcom Ross Hamilton (1947)

1945 – 1946

1944 – 1945

Neville Neil Hansen (1950) 1947

Owen David Harris (1951) 1951

Ralph David Hartland (1955)

James Bruce Holt (1956)

Philip Boyd Irwin (1952)

1952 – 1953

1953 – 1956

1949 – 1952

Ian Leslie Kennedy (1945) 1942 – 1943

John Noel Kruger (1953)

David Colin MacFarlane (1954)

1950 – 1951

1948 – 1952

Alan Graham MacKenzie (1963) 1960 – 1963

Ian Longfield Marjason (1968) 1965 – 1968

Trevor Bruce Marriage (1956)

1950 – 1953

Years at

Colin Vicars Marsh (1950) 1947 – 1948

William Bruce Martin (1954) 1946 – 1951

Kenneth Cameron McIntosh (1960) 1957 – 1958

Keith George Nagel (1958) 1955

William David Perrins (1948) 1945 – 1947

Donald Albert Ratcliffe (1953) 1950

John David Lancaster Richards (1988) 1981 – 1988

Philip Charles Schmidhauser (1953) 1950 – 1951

Evan Frank Singleton (1951) 1948 – 1951

Llewellyn Alan Stephens (1969) 1965 – 1970

Robert William Tranter (1987) 1982 – 1987

Allan John Warnock (1961) 1958 – 1961

Ronald Blair Waters (1956) 1953 – 1956

Gregory David Wheeldon (1974) 1970 – 1974

A message from Churchie’s platinum sponsor

For a decade now, Porsche Centre Brisbane has maintained a strong professional partnership with Churchie. Our shared values have only grown stronger, and we’re thrilled to continue supporting the School’s scheduled events throughout 2023.

Furthermore, we’re excited to announce the upcoming release of the new Cayenne, set to arrive later this year. Whether you’re commuting to work or traversing challenging terrains, the new Cayenne offers a driving experience unlike any other, with Porsche’s iconic design.

With advanced features such as a highly digitised display and control system, new chassis technology and innovative high-tech features, the Cayenne has undergone significant refinement. We are committed to excellence and future-focused technology, aligning with our mutual values.

We are confident that the new Cayenne will impress our Churchie community members who share our appreciation for top-tier performance and a drivercentric experience.

We can’t wait to introduce you to the new Cayenne.

Marco Kim Dealer Principal, Porsche Centre Brisbane

The New Cayenne.

Over 20 years ago we asked ourselves if a sports car could celebrate more than the individual. The Cayenne provided the answer. And it continues to perfect it to this day. For people who want to tread their own path.

To the office today, off-road or on the racetrack tomorrow – the C ayenne offers driving pleasure on every terrain, paired with the design typical of a Porsche.