Boomalacka - Issue 126, Spring 2023

CONNECTIONS Building “Good Community” in our Boarding Houses Enriching the Lives of All The Power of Community Partnerships Nurturing Meaningful Connections Through Mentoring I S S U E 1 2 6 | S P R I N G 20 2 3

K E Y D AT E S 2024 SCHOOL DATES 30 January

Term 1 starts Welcome Morning Tea

10 February

Scholarship Testing and Auditions

14 February

CEEd Welcome Picnic

22 February House Aquatics Carnival 25 February

The Head of the Lake

2 March

Pipe Bands Victoria Competition

8 March

Round Square International Women’s Breakfast

11 March

Labour Day Exeunt

16 March

Open Morning

18 - 22 March House Athletics Carnival 28 March

Term 1 ends

17 April

Term 2 starts

24 April

House Lap of the Lake

27 April

Don Huntley Memorial Piano Recital

3 May

Round Square Dance

10 June

King’s Birthday Exeunt

22 June

Grammar in Concert

27 June

House Choral Performance

28 June

Term 2 ends

Further dates will be published in the Autumn/Winter edition

2024 ALUMNI DATES

COVER: Year 12 students - Isabella D’Amore, Paige Torrance, Tom Murphy, Alexander Herrod and Lilla McIntyre

Ballarat Grammar acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we learn, live and work. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and extend this to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.

EDITOR Gemma Kelly, Alumni and Community Engagement Coordinator Special thanks to Liz Crothers, Nola and Ross Squire, School Archivists, and Janelle Ryan, Director of Marketing, Communications and Community Relations, for their editorial advice and support.

24 February

BQOGA Committee AGM

24 March

FOSSIL Gathering (Past Staff Reunion)

Boomalacka readers love stories and news about the Ballarat Grammar family, past and present. If you have something you’d like to share, please contact communications@bgs.vic.edu.au

12 April

50+ Luncheon (1974 and back)

PHOTOGRAPHY

10 May

2022 2 Year Reunion

14 September Gala Reunion – 1984 (40), 1994 (30), 2004 (20) and 2014 (10) 2 November

2019 5 Year Reunion

Scan the QR code below to see updated list of Key Dates on our website, and more information about reunions. There are also links to register to attend the above events. We hope to catch up with you at one of these events soon!

Steve McDonnell, Emma Burnham

DESIGN

Mass Motion

PRINTING

Sovereign Press

PRINTED ON

Supreme Uncoated Stock

This publication has been printed locally in Ballarat by Sovereign Press Pty Ltd, a Low C02 Member and FSC ® Certified printer.

Ballarat Grammar and Sovereign Press are focused on being environmentally conscious for future generations.

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WELCOME

HIGHLIGHTS

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Development Update

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Good Community in Boarding Houses

Headmaster's Reflection

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HEADMASTER'S REFLECTION

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DEVELOPMENT UPDATE

6 BUILDING ‘GOOD COMMUNITY’ IN OUR BOARDING HOUSES 8

ENRICHING THE LIVES OF ALL

10 BUILDING A WHOLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT NETWORK 12 THE POWER OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS 19 NURTURING MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS THROUGH MENTORING 20 MENTORING AT THE HEART OF BALLARAT GRAMMAR 22 INSPIRING OLD GRAMMARIAN 24 OLD GRAMMARIAN AND COMMUNITY NEWS

10 Enriching the Lives of All

12 Community Partnerships

27 ARCHIVES ALIVE 28 BQOGA EVENTS

22 Inspiring Old Grammarian

24 OG Community News 1

WELCOME

HEADMASTER’S REFLECTION Mr Adam Heath Lloyd Meek (2016) and Adam Heath

Ken had started his working life as a forester before the area he relied on for an income was declared a national park. Ever the pragmatist and innovator, he used his rich knowledge of the wildest areas of far eastern Victoria to best effect, becoming first an officer and then chief ranger of Croajingalong National Park. Ken had that unique combination of wisdom and knowledge and, throughout his time managing the park, became a renowned expert in, and preserver of, rare orchids.

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Ahead of his time, Ken removed all rubbish bins from the national park, reducing the dumping of rubbish and building wasteconsciousness well before this was common. Being based around the stunning Mallacoota Lakes, Ken, who was a traditionalist right down to his constant succession of roll-your-own smokes, again showed his pragmatism by purchasing an impressive fibre glass vessel, Sea Eagle, powered with the latest technology outboard.

Unbelievably fast and powerful, this was the finest weapon of deterrent to the emerging poachers threatening to decimate the highly prized abalone populations.

Ken was an old man when I met him for the first time and he has, sadly, long since passed. But he was still of the mindset that change was to be embraced and used in the pursuit of conservation towards a better world. I often think of him when challenged by new technology and innovation, wondering as Ken did, “How might this serve our original and sometimes traditional aspirations best?" Counterintuitively, “How might this technology assist in the process of preservation… in this case, of our integrity and values?”.

There is talk, however, heralding AI as the next significant threat, some going as far as to say to humanity. And to be fair, a look at “Sophia”, the very human like bot, is somewhat unnerving and quite surreal. But as with all human inventions, the technology is ours to make in the service of

humanity, with the power lying in the hands of the human developer and, ultimately, us the user. It then comes down to our decisions being made through the lens of those foundation values that underpin our educational offering, and these being the filter through which we should adopt and use such technology. In combination with students who are grounded humanists, through their lived experiences of working with and learning to get along with others, this technology can and will be used to tremendously positive effect.

It does make our current focus on developing our sporting offerings and outdoor education programs ever more important. The prevalence of AI will surely grow, but there will be no artificial substitute for an active, healthy lifestyle; time spent outdoors and in nature, learning in situations which require our young people to collaborate with others and learning that involves challenges, setbacks, sometimes even failure and the opportunity to be supported in picking themselves up.

Our students need the opportunity to take reasonable risks, and sometimes make mistakes with consequences, to hone their decision making.

We dream of a future where our young people won’t be as enslaved as our generation has been to emails, for example, instead using voice to text for short, concise messaging. I hope that the synthesising power of Chat will be used to accelerate the treatment of chronic medical conditions, enhancing the longevity and quality of life for our young.

WELCOME

Much continues to be written about the power and potential threat of Artificial Intelligence (AI), most notably in Chat GPT and similar products. The ‘Chat’ type products are predicated on having enormous computing capacity to search an imponderably large database of most information available on the internet. The next stage, albeit a step of huge magnitude, of the Google search, if you like. Other AI products can learn and adapt, such as the predictive text on our phones which, progressively, offer our most used words as the first option, then offering similar terms as the technology ‘learns’ further. Our farmers have long been early adopters of technology, with AI being no exception, incorporated into autosteer for tractors and soon to be used far more extensively as drones are progressively used to spray crops and ease the time and cost of daily checking of stock.

Could AI give our farmers back some precious time and make their work safer? It is our vision that our young people graduate with balance and wisdom, such that they emerge able to lead not just their own lives but also their communities to ensure that each new iteration of technology, with AI just being the latest, is used for the betterment of humankind. Like every parent, my wish is for AI to contribute to a happy, healthier and more prosperous future for our young. They will achieve this because each decision they make will be through the lens of their honed and lived values. And they deserve nothing less.

Scan the QR code to learn about Sophia - the very human like bot.

Adam Heath reading to the Preps during Book Week

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WELCOME

DEVELOPMENT U P D AT E

The Olston Quad

UNLOCKING OPPORTUNITIES: THE IMPACT OF GIVING AT BALLARAT GRAMMAR At Ballarat Grammar, our commitment to excellence in education extends beyond the classroom. It's about creating an environment where students can thrive, explore their passions, and develop their full potential. Thanks to the generosity of our school community through Annual Giving, the Non-Compulsory Building Fund (NCBF), and Staff Payroll Giving donations, we're turning this vision into a reality.

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Some of the recent projects and improvements undertaken across the School as a direct result of our School community’s generosity include: COMPLETED PROJECTS: The John Ross-Perrier Watersports Centre Enhancement: We have undertaken a significant transformation of the John Ross-Perrier Watersports Centre by adding a mezzanine floor. This strategic addition has substantially increased the floor space, allowing us to incorporate state-of-theart training and recovery equipment. The upgraded centre now offers an enhanced experience for our rowing community while

providing additional learning and meeting spaces for various segments of our school community.

Sustainable Technology: Sustainability is a top priority at Ballarat Grammar. Through the unwavering support of our school community, we've expedited our plans to install solar panels across the campus.

Currently boasting approximately 500kw of sustainable technology, these solar panels significantly reduce our carbon footprint and deliver cost savings to the School.

We remain committed to expanding our sustainable technology initiatives whenever opportunities arise.

Heinz Centre Upgrades: Our Property and Services Team has executed extensive renovation and upgrade works at the Heinz Centre. This includes the refurbishment of original Heinz class spaces, the addition of a new learning space, facade upgrades, and refurbishment of the decking overlooking the dam area adjacent to the Heinz building.

Boarding Facilities: Ongoing upgrades and extensions have enhanced our boarding facilities. These include adding extra bedrooms to both Woodbridge and Wigan and renovations of bathrooms, an all-access bathroom, and a new laundry area.

Garden Refurbishments: Extensive garden refurbishments and improvements have been completed across the campus. These enhancements continue to enrich the play

and learning environments for our students and staff.

Queen's Wing Transformation: The Queen's Wing has undergone significant refurbishments, with four classrooms renovated to date, two more scheduled for completion before the start of 2024, and plans for three new classrooms in 2024.

Additionally, the former Carn Brae facility is now a functional IT hub for our school community.

Scholarship Program: Generous Annual Giving donations and Staff Payroll Giving contributions play a pivotal role in our Scholarship Program, providing deserving students with access to a Ballarat Grammar education. These scholarships not only impact individual recipients but also enrich our school culture and diversity.

NEAR FUTURE PROJECTS: In line with this year's Annual Giving projects, we're gearing up for the construction of a dedicated and purpose-built Media Centre/

TV Studio. This innovative space, currently in the final planning stages with the support of Morton & Co., will empower budding filmmakers and media enthusiasts to unleash their creativity. It will serve as a permanent home where our students and staff can hone their media and film production skills.

WELCOME

Bike Sheds for Boarding: We have installed bike sheds at the Hayhoe and Dart Boarding Houses to cater to our Boarding Community's growing needs. This initiative ensures secure and safe storage for students' bicycles.

These transformative initiatives, completed and on the horizon, are a testament to the power of community, where generosity and vision combine to transform our school environment. We're not just building structures; we're creating opportunities, fostering sustainability, improving accessibility, and nurturing talent.

Your support matters, and it's making a tangible difference in the lives of our students and staff. We invite you to join us in celebrating the impact of giving at Ballarat Grammar and the bright future it promises for all.

Thank you for being a part of our journey.

Ballarat Grammar - Changing the Game "Changing the Game " is a visionary initiative that aligns with Ballarat Grammar's Strategic and Capital Masterplan, of which the Rintel redevelopment and the Grampians property are a central focus. This transformative vision aims to expand the scope of our educational and experiential learning offerings while also creating pre-eminent sports, health, and outdoor education facilities. These resources are intended to benefit students, staff, and various community groups and partners.

Grampians property

Physical activity and outdoor play are indispensable for children's holistic growth. At Ballarat Grammar, we're transforming the way students engage by encouraging them to disconnect from screens, ignite their creativity, sharpen cognitive problem-solving abilities, and achieve objectives collaboratively. But beyond these skills, our mission is to cultivate resilience, embrace failure as a stepping stone to success, and foster enduring habits for a healthy, active lifestyle and a profound bond with the natural world.

The new Rintel Development

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CONNECTIONS

BUILDING ‘GOOD COMMUNITY’ IN OUR BOARDING HOUSES Matilda Whitehead, Sophie Calvert, Chris Van Styn, Archie Walton, Alice Booth and Ollie Fitzgerald

Good community is built on two things according to Assistant Head, Residential and Boarding, Chris Van Styn – those who show up each day striving to be the best version of themselves, and those who give back and build up the people and places around them.

“These are the principles we live by in the Boarding Houses and that we make clear whenever a new boarder comes into our community. While not everyone will get it right all the time, these provide important goals to aspire to and continuously strive to realign.

Chris says boarding is at the heart and soul of the School.

“I’m proud of our boarders who are the first in line for service, who make up good chunks of the playing field and the cheer squad for school sport, and who roll out the red carpet for parents, families and Old Grammarians at special events.”

For Chris, the boarding community is not just about the students.

“It’s also the staff who invest heavily in the lives of our boarders. Many of them live here on campus with their families – their young children, their dogs, cats, rabbits, etc. – which brings a creative chaos of sorts that makes for an authentically family-orientated environment and culture.”

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Among Chris’ greatest joys are seeing growth in the students over time and the farreaching and long-lasting connections that are forged with boarding families.

“I love watching students I’ve known since Year 7 developing into fine young people who are now in Year 12 and leading our community, or hearing our boarders speak with passion about their home away from home".

Chris is excited about the future of Boarding at Ballarat Grammar.

“ As we strive to cater for our regional and rural community in a world that is ever changing, the journey that we enter into with our families – often spanning state borders and hundreds of kilometres and in some cases four or five children over a long period of time – is what continues to make our boarding community not just good, but truly great.”

CONNECTIONS

2023 Woodbridge vs Hayhoe/Larritt football match

Inter-Boarding House Girls’ Football Nothing says ‘good community’ quite like the fiercely contested annual Woodbridge vs Hayhoe/Larritt football match. A highlight of the Father-Daughter weekend, it is a game steeped in tradition and rich in healthy House rivalry. The match attracts a vibrant crowd of boarding families, past players, Old Grammarians and members of the Ballarat community who come together to catch up and support the girls as they showcase their football skills.

Boarding Weekend

“It’s all about giving something a go and having fun with the girls you live with. Everyone can be part of it, whether it’s playing or water running or cheering. Having our Dads watch us play a game they all grew up playing makes it all the more special. Win or lose at the end of the day, everyone is still mates.” ~Boarding Football Captains, Lizy Bermingham, Olivia Brilliant and Jessica Rentsch (Year 12) “The sisterhood and spirit that surrounds the game and trainings allows all girls to give it a go and push outside their comfort zone.

This annual event really brings the House closer together!” ~ Olivia Moll (Year 12)

Mother-Daughter Weekend

Boarding Activity

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CONNECTIONS

ENRICHING THE LIVES OF ALL Ballarat Grammar is striving to enrich the lives of all students, teachers and families by fostering richer and more authentic relationships between our whole school community and/ or Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Indigenous Student Coordinator and Head of Nevett House James Castles explains that creating a culturally safe environment for all requires building whole-community support networks.

“It involves everyone. It’s about approaching the learning and sharing of culture respectfully and with honesty. We’re creating different layers of support to wrap around our local and non-local Indigenous students.”

James says that the work and the responsibility needs to be shared.

“It’s important that the work is led by students and that those who are leading the way are supported. I’m so proud to see Ballarat Grammar on this cultural journey.”

Year 12 students Lilla McIntyre and 2023 School Captain Annie Sullivan are two young leaders who are putting words into action to create positive change.

For Lilla, reconciliation is about individuals coming together and listening, learning and understanding.

“It requires embracing individuality and cultural differences while also learning to place differences aside.”

Lilla is proud of the progress that has been achieved this year in deepening the understanding of what reconciliation means and why it matters thanks to students, staff and school families working together. But she says there needs to be an ongoing focus on building connections and trust.

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Georgia Lynch

“We need to continue to look for ways to make sure our Indigenous students, families and guests feel welcomed, supported and heard.

Like celebrating culture, creating opportunities for cultural immersion, and making sure the language we accept is inclusive.”

For Annie, reconciliation means true respect and recognition and supporting and strengthening relationships.

“Creating a culturally responsive and respectful community is a continuous journey that involves conscious, persistent and collective efforts. Above all else, it requires a willingness to learn.”

She believes that providing all students and teachers with more opportunities to listen and learn from each other is critical for deepening understanding.

“The key is to share the load. It would be great to continue to get the student leaders involved in pushing for change by encouraging other students and helping promote and celebrate diversity at Grammar and beyond.”

Mathematics Faculty Assistant Chair Sarah Lakerink left behind her ties to her local Indigenous community when she moved from Tasmania to Victoria 13 years ago.

CONNECTIONS

“Even after so many years I still have no connections to the local Ballarat Indigenous community. I would love to see initiatives to make it easier for people coming from outside this community to make connections, for example through community activities such as dancing or weaving baskets or painting.”

Sarah says that while she was involved with community groups when she was young, she fears making new connections because she has so little knowledge regarding some aspects of the local Aboriginal culture.

“I begin to question my right to identify as Aboriginal. This isn’t helped by the fact that I don’t look like a stereotypical Aboriginal person because I have fair skin.”

Sarah says that she knows there are students who are also struggling with identifying as Aboriginal.

“We need to create more awareness about this issue.”

For Year 10 student Harley Hick reconciliation is about the restoration and strengthening of the relationships between non-Indigenous and Indigenous people.

Talin Hopkins with Timber Creek Primary School students. In 2023 45 students from Years 8 - 12 and staff travelled to Timber Creek. This long-standing and much-loved annual program is an important element of nurturing our connection with remote communities.

He thinks that Grammar is well and truly headed in the right direction in building a culturally safe environment.

Harley would like to see more positive role models via a higher representation of Indigenous staff members at Grammar.

“The School is providing opportunities to connect with and learn from fellow Indigenous students and friends. In the RAP (Reconciliation Action Plan) group, there is a sense of home and safety where we can reflect on any issues regarding not only our identities but also general cultural things.”

“It would especially help new students from remote places settle in and would create a safer more familiar community for all Indigenous students.”

Year 10 student Georgia Lynch came to Ballarat Grammar from Darwin in 2022. She says that while she has found aspects challenging, overall it has been a great experience.

“I’ve found making friends and learning really positive. My Mum and Dad really wanted me to have this opportunity so I’m glad to be making them proud. The homework was a challenge as we didn’t do this at home really. And of course, the weather!

Georgia says there’s lots of support around her to help her along the way.

“Having a family connection with Tony and Donna Lovett makes it feel more like home. They pick us up from school and take us away on weekends and trips.”

The following is an extract from a speech Georgia gave about the impact of the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation Nallei Jerring Koori Leadership Project on her. (Read more about the program over the page).

I am a proud Tiwi and Narungga woman and a proud Ballarat Grammar student ... Coming from hot NT to freezing cold Ballarat, the program gives me a chance to connect into the community … to forge friendships and bonds that will last a lifetime. This unique experience has shown us that our journeys may differ, but our shared heritage unites us, giving us strength and unity as we navigate the world …

Georgia was an outstanding participant at the recent Smith Family's Indigenous Youth Leadership Program National Gathering held at Sydney’s Olympic Park where she forged connections with young Indigenous leaders from across Australia. Pictured here with James Castles.

the program has enabled us to form a deeper connection with the Ballarat community, fostering meaningful relationships with Indigenous adults and youth alike ... perhaps most importantly, this program has allowed us to deepen our connection to our Culture within Victoria … ensuring that our Indigenous identity remains vibrant, strong, and celebrated.

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CONNECTIONS

BUILDING A WHOLE COMMUNITY SUPPORT NETWORK The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation Nallei Jerring Koori Leadership Project brings First Nations students from nine local secondary schools together to connect and provides opportunities for growth and leadership development. Eight Ballarat Grammar students participated in the program in 2023.

“The Ballarat Grammar students have had the opportunity to build networks and friendships with other First Nations students in Ballarat and increased their connection to community and culture. Learning from and listening to the incredible stories and insights of others has been an invaluable experience for all the students and staff involved.” ~ Hannah Singleton, Youth and School Programs Manager

As educators, we recognise the value of education and we want to be the change.”

Deb says that giving young people the opportunity to make connections through this network means the cultural load is not being placed on individuals.

“We recognise the role our young people have in that space in their schools. My goal is for us to work together to create a better future by creating opportunities, by giving them voice and choice, and by celebrating the richness and diversity of our histories and cultures.”

Having been a student at Ballarat Grammar from the age of three through to Year 12, Deb recently reconnected with the School through her work with the SEA. She says that the School’s involvement in the program is significant due to the leadership it shows.

“James Castles is a key figure in this space. He brings innovative thinking and collaboration opportunities to the program.

The School's resources also help connect more people.”

Seeing this leadership and the positive changes being implemented at Ballarat Grammar resulted in the decision to send her daughter here at the start of this year.

2023 Western Bulldogs Community Foundation Nallei Jerring Leadership Program

The Schools Empowered Alliance (SEA) brings Indigenous students from local schools together to support authentic connections between the students and the schools and to empower leaders within the schools to develop culturally responsive environments Deb Lowah Clark, 1989 is a proud Meriam Islander who has lived in Ballarat, Wadawurrung Country, her entire life. Deb has been an educator for 29 years and is currently working for the Department of Education in the Central Highlands region where she has been instrumental in setting up the SEA. Nallei Jerring Koori Leadership Project participants Kevin, Georgia, Anthony and Klinton

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“The SEA was born from a group of passionate local educators wanting to create an ongoing connection among local secondary schools from all sectors.

“I was a student here for 15 years, but this is my daughter’s space now. Ballarat Grammar is a safe and culturally sensitive space and I feel a sense of relief, like I’ve brought her to the right place. I want her to have a sense of belonging and to have the opportunity to succeed but not at the expense of her culture.”

Deb says the keys to success are asking the right questions, being open to change and making connections.

“I feel like she will make those connections and have the opportunity to thrive at Grammar. The values of the leader and the legacy they can leave are clear and powerful here. Mr Heath is one of these leaders who will create change.”

Tony Lovett first became involved with Ballarat Grammar in 2007 when he and his wife Donna learned about the opportunities for Indigenous students through their local Aboriginal Education Consultative Committee and they became Grammar parents. They now also provide ‘home away from home’ support for Indigenous boarders by bringing them into their family circles and our community.

Tony says their involvement ramped up in 2021 as a result of a meeting with James Castles.

“It was clear that Ballarat Grammar was really embracing and enhancing their efforts to make meaningful connections with Indigenous students and families. Other Indigenous families we know were talking up their positive engagement with the School.”

Tony says the main change he is seeing is the growing student engagement in promoting reconciliation and creating a culturally safe environment, an approach that he also sees modelled by staff.

“Ballarat Grammar continues to build connections. We feel we are engaged, supported and actively involved in our children’s education journey.”

Our Indigenous students are well supported even after they graduate from Grammar through programs designed to encourage and support them to embrace and pursue opportunities after they finish school.

The University of Melbourne’s Murrup Barak – Melbourne Institute for Indigenous Development - supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students considering studying at The University of Melbourne to prepare for what comes after school and to navigate the university once they get there.

CONNECTIONS

Local families are a critical part of the wider community support network. They provide an extra layer of local connections and cultural support for the Indigenous students who come from remote places.

Each year they visit Ballarat Grammar to connect with our Indigenous students, including attending events such as the School’s annual NAIDOC Dinner to connect with the students and their families.

“Since we started engaging with Ballarat Grammar we have seen transformative change, with the School creating a more inclusive and vibrant educational environment. It is nurturing meaningful relationships with its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, parents, and community through inclusive education, cultural awareness programs and collaborative initiatives, and the celebration of diversity and empowered Elias at Trinity College Indigenous voices”, Yemurraki Egan, Outreach Team Leader and proud Yorta “ Living at Trinity has allowed me to make Yorta, Wemba Wemba and Gunditjmara man.

Elias Jarvis (2021) is in his second year at The University of Melbourne, studying a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Indigenous Studies and living on campus at Trinity College. He is hoping to study the Juris Doctor (Law) for his post-graduate studies.

Elias says he chose Melbourne University because it offered the best options for him in terms of opportunities, subject offerings, course structure, reputation and location.

“Accessing universities isn’t a common or normalised experience for Aboriginal people, especially a uni like UniMelb. When I was in Year 10 I met someone from the UniMelb outreach program and from there I became obsessed with finding a way to go there.”

For Elias, Trinity was the perfect fit, offering social, academic and professional opportunities that he otherwise wouldn’t have had.

lifelong connections and tap into a rich alumni network. Trinity and the Uni foster an inclusive and supportive environment where we all support and celebrate each other. Both have amazing support networks. Having people I can lean on has been such a huge help, especially with my studies.”

INDIGENOUS SCHOLARSHIPS The Smith Family’s Indigenous Youth Leadership Program offers scholarships and leadership opportunities with a focus on youth from communities in very remote areas or regional communities.

In addition, named Indigenous Secondary Scholarships are available at Ballarat Grammar - more information can be found here:

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CONNECTIONS Current Anglicare Ballarat Committee student representatives Ned Scholten, Leila Berberich and Hannah Paton (Year 10 students) have been learning about the work Anglicare does to support some of the most vulnerable members of our community while also providing the perspective of young people who live in Ballarat. They are passionate about social justice and loving their neighbour as themselves.

THE POWER OF

COMMUNIT Y PARTNERSHIPS Ballarat Grammar students understand that they are part of something bigger. As they seek to find their place in the world, they are actively engaged in learning about global issues, embracing diversity and intercultural understanding, and fostering empathy and responsible leadership. There is a strong focus on encouraging and supporting students to develop skills and mindsets that will equip them to address the challenges of their time.

SOCIAL JUSTICE PARTNER Our key social justice partner continues to be Anglicare Victoria. Anglican Bishop of Ballarat Garry Weatherill explains that while it has a statewide structure, almost all of Anglicare’s work is in local communities.

“This is the best way to deliver social services, and it enables the people who participate in Anglicare’s work to see the results. It has an immediacy that is so valuable for those who receive the services and for those who support them.”

Chair of Faculty, Religion, Philosophy and Ethics Keith Romanis says the enduring links between Anglicare, the Anglican Diocese of Ballarat and the School make this partnership very special.

“It supports the people of the Diocese in a range of practical ways. In 2023, the focus has been on promoting and fostering the idea of the ‘Communion Forest’, a global initiative focused on ‘forest protection, tree growing and eco-system restoration to safeguard God’s magnificent creation’ through actions at a local level.

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“To promote this important concept, parishes all over the Diocese have trees handed out to mark the key Christian Steps of Baptism, Confirmation and Marriage, just like our Year 12 Leavers, ‘seed-to-tree’ ritual.”

Keith explains that when the School was approached to assist with spreading the message, students from the Vocational Major stream led by Faculty Chair - Art and Design, Sue Sedgwick, volunteered to help by designing and making bags using recycled materials. These bags were sold around the parishes to raise money for the Bishop’s Anglicare Appeal.

“ This partnership between Ballarat Grammar and volunteer groups across the Diocese is a great example of how the School’s care for the environment, desire for student agency and deep connection with the people of the Diocese all come together.”

COMMUNITY SERVICE CONNECTIONS

Can the Chapel For a month every winter, the Chapel of Saint Mark is proudly adorned with thousands of cans. This annual food drive collects non-perishable items for distribution to the Anglicare Victoria Ballarat Emergency Relief Centre, a vital resource for local people that provides support not just for those who are vulnerable or who have insecure housing but also for those who are experiencing unexpected hardship.

“This enables people to care for their families or send their kids off to school with breakfast so they can make the most of their learning”, Chair of Faculty Religion, Philosophy and Ethics Keith Romanis Keith Romanis, Shayla Cobbledick and Carly Missen

" Community Service is a fundamental part of Ballarat Grammar. It is an outward expression of one of the Round Square pillars, and also the School values or compassion, responsibility and hope. We strive to positively impact the local community, and the wider Australian and international communities in our fundraising, volunteer activities and awareness campaigns. It is expected that every student contributes to community service, and to allow students to organise, lead and grow in their skills in this area", Sarah Barlow, Director of Leadership and Service Red Shield Appeal This annual doorknock event is an initiative of The Salvation Army to raise money for vulnerable Australians. Ballarat Grammar has been supporting The Salvation Army for over 50 years and is the largest fundraiser in the Ballarat region. In 2023, 300 volunteers from Years 7 to 12 raised an impressive $5,144, double our 2022 total.

Music partnership with Ballarat Clarendon College Following the success of last year’s effort in raising funds for Ukraine, in 2023, students from Ballarat Grammar and Ballarat Clarendon College once again joined forces to raise funds, this time for Beyond Blue. Over 80 students from Years 6 to 12 performed a diverse music program at the Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts in August. A separate concert, ‘Ballacussion’ involved percussion ensembles performing together.

This initiative, led by Music and Performing Arts leaders from the two schools, fosters collaboration, and celebrates community.

Student2student program Evidence shows that peer support is one of the best ways to support students with reading difficulties. Each year, ten of our students volunteer for this important initiative, which matches students who need help with their reading with a peer ‘buddy’. It involves them helping and encouraging their reading buddy by phone over an 18-week period. The program is coordinated by The Smith Family Charity, which provides training to equip volunteers with the skills they need.

2023 Red Shield Appeal

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CONNECTIONS

THE POWER OF

COMMUNIT Y PARTNERSHIPS

Bina Day

Bina Day This annual Junior School event is organised ‘by children, for children’ to raise money for the Ryder-Cheshire Foundation, where Grammar students have sponsored children since 1978 (originally a girl named Bina). It involves students setting up their own small business enterprises and links in perfectly to our Year 6 Unit of Inquiry, ‘How we organise ourselves’, which is focused on learning

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about group decision-making, compromise and initiative, providing an authentic way to investigate these vital life-skills.

Coats 4 Kids For the ninth year running, this annual initiative saw our CEEd community coordinate a drive to collect warm winter coats, hats, jumpers, and jeans in children's sizes for distribution to local group Eureka Mums.

“ The support of Ballarat Grammar students and staff has been instrumental in our ability to reach the incredible milestone of filling 40,000 hungry tummies in 2023”, - Deb Robertson, Eat Up Ballarat Coordinator

CONNECTIONS

Lee Meakin and Melissa Bryan at Day for Girls

Bina Day Celebrations

Eat Up

Penny Ashby, Amelia Nunn, Charlotte Siemensma and Amelie Irvine

Day for Girls

Eat Up

A global initiative that promotes equality in women’s health, education, safety and dignity, this program has been running at Grammar since 2015. It involves students and their family members making quality reusable feminine hygiene kits for distribution to young women in Timor-Leste.

This year, our Ballarat Grammar volunteers supplied a record number of 150 kits.

Since 2017, student volunteers from Years 7 and 8 have been making sandwiches for distribution to 32 local schools, where they are offered to children who arrive at school without lunch. Our students now produce around 7,500 sandwiches each year – that’s up to 450 in each session! This program is a partnership with Alfredton Rotary and Eat Up Australia.

“The kits were gratefully received and have made a difference in the lives of the young women”, Rob Gray, staff member and Timor-Leste Program Coordinator

family affair to 6,000 boxes on order this year, destined for 37 charity groups across Australia to be distributed on Christmas Eve to families in need.

Senior School Houses signature charities Each House chooses a charity to support each year and organises activities to raise money and awareness.

Reverse Advent Calendar Grammar parent Heather Luttrell started this initiative in 2012 with her three young children to address food insecurity in the lead-up to Christmas. It has grown from a 15

CONNECTIONS Back: Will McCahon, Sophie Collins, Mr Adam Heath, Mrs Kylie Heath, Mr Mark Warwick, Ms Jill Coote, Georgie Matthews. Front: Harley Hicks, Maggie Tayler, Rosie Veal, Ethan McCart, Joanna Coutts, Sammy Deacon, Hudson Le Marshall

THE POWER OF

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS 2023 Round Square International Conference In October 2023, a group of Year 10 students and staff from Ballarat Grammar embarked on an enriching educational adventure to Nairobi, Kenya, for the 2023 Round Square International Conference. Led by Mr. Mark Warwick and Ms. Jill Coote, the ten students were warmly received at the Starehe School and Boys Centre, known for its dedication to providing quality education to underprivileged children.

Their pre-conference exploration included exciting visits to Lake Naivasha, the Elsamere Conservation Museum, and the captivating Maasai Mara. Engaging in exhilarating game drives, they had the opportunity to witness a rich diversity of wildlife and immerse themselves in the vibrant Maasai culture.

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At the 55th Round Square International Conference hosted by Brookhouse Schools, the delegation actively participated in diverse activities, including impactful community service, adventurous outings, and insightful discussions. They enthusiastically painted classrooms, attended engaging presentations on 'the New Africa,' and enjoyed exciting treasure hunts and cultural evenings. The conference served as an excellent platform for fostering new friendships, experiencing the local culture and wildlife, and gaining a deeper understanding of the core values of Round Square, including internationalism, democracy, environmentalism, adventure, leadership, and service.

Their involvement in the conference not only provided an avenue to connect with peers

from around the world but also facilitated a significant donation to a school in Nairobi, showcasing their commitment to global solidarity and support. The experience left a lasting impression, fostering a profound sense of gratitude and a heightened awareness of global values and connections among the students and staff upon their return.

As a member of Round Square, learning programs across the School focus on the Round Square philosophy that promotes personal responsibility, kindness, and justice in education to guide students' learning experiences.

CONNECTIONS

Round Square International Conference Opening Ceremony

The group participating in service activities Classroom at the Starehe School and Boys Centre in Nairobi

Brookhouse School in Nairobi, Kenya

The group leaving for Africa

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CONNECTIONS

2023 Round Square International Conference

Mark Warwick, Jill Coote, Will McCahon, presenting a cheque to two students and Headmaster of the Starehe Full school assembly at Starehe School and Boys Centre in Nairobi

School, Mr Nicholas Ndeke

The group at Lake Naivasha and hundreds of pink flamingos

Our students enjoying a campfire at Julia’s River Camp in the Maasa Mara

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CONNECTIONS

NURTURING MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS THROUGH MENTORING Smith House and the CEEd Each week throughout Term 2, Year 11 Smith House students visited the CEEd to work alongside the CEEd’s Early Childhood Educators with children in the 3-year-old Kinder program.

“At first, the boys were a bit apprehensive, especially those who hadn’t had much experience interacting with younger children.

It was a lovely experience for the boys as it moved them out of their comfort zone and required them to be patient, understanding, creative and empathetic”, Alan Pitson, Head of Smith House Year 11 Smith House students visit the CEEd in 2023

The education of the whole person is highly valued by our students, staff, and parents.

It is at the heart of Ballarat Grammar’s strategic focus and leads to respectful relationships and a noticeable sense of integrity, hallmarks of our culture.

We want our students to dream big, to aspire to academic excellence, and to strive to be the best they can be in all areas of their learning. We want to equip them with the skills they need to flourish, to help them rise to life’s challenges, to make the most of setbacks and adversities, to accomplish tasks and achieve their goals.

Drawing on evidence from the science of Positive Psychology, we explicitly teach our students the skills and mindsets that promote wellbeing through our Positive Education Program. Mentoring plays an important part in supporting this learning.

Parents, staff, and students alike value our young people having other trusted adults involved in their life. We are continually striving to create opportunities that foster leadership and nurture connections in different areas across all levels of the school community, from the CEEd to our Old Grammarians. The following is a snapshot of just some of the mentoring initiatives currently in place.

Year 7 Mentoring Program Using a ‘big brother, big sister’ approach within the Senior School Houses, this long-running successful program creates invaluable vertical connections, with students forming strong and lasting bonds.

Year 12 students take on the leadership role of Mentor Captain to become another trusted young adult for Year 7 students to turn to for support as they navigate an unfamiliar and sometimes challenging new school environment. The Mentors accompany the younger students to House meetings and Chapel services and often join in with them for other activities, role-modelling positive behaviour and encouraging House spirit in the process.

Senior School House Mentor Groups In the Senior School every student belongs to a Mentor Group, which is made up of students from the same year level in each House. As well as building great friendships with their peers, this marks the beginning of a very special relationship with their Mentor, who cares for their wellbeing across all areas of their learning, with the students building trust in a significant adult that continues throughout their senior years at Grammar.

Year 11 Smith House students… “ It was interesting to take a moment and turn back the clock to better understand and interact with little kids by doing the simple things they enjoy like drawing, building and reading with them.” ...........................

“ It was great to return to the activities that brought us so much enjoyment when we were younger, and being able to connect with the kids was really special.” ...........................

“ I think it was good for us boys to go out of our comfort zones a bit and have some new experiences that can help us to grow.” ...........................

“ I had a good experience. At first, the kids were understandably shy, but it was nice as they grew to trust us and enjoyed playing and communicating with us.”

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CONNECTIONS

M E N TO R I N G AT T H E H E A R T O F B A L L A R AT G R A M M A R Green Pal Project – Year 9 and Junior School This year, our Year 9 students’ Crazy Ideas College projects centred around promoting environmental awareness. One of the projects, Green Pal, was designed to instil a love for the environment among young children and involved the Year 1 students being provided with pots, soil and mystery seeds to nurture, with the older students conducting follow-up lessons on plant care and anatomy.

CEEd to Junior School Transition Buddy Program Our Year 5 students buddy up with our 4-year-old Kinder CEEdlings to help support their transition into the Junior School, with the relationship continuing into Year 6/Prep, respectively. This program provides a friendly face at break times and regular buddy lunches and reading sessions as the younger children are settling into their new environment.

JEDI Captains – new student leadership positions Our new JEDI (Justice, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion) Captain positions focus on three areas: Indigenous, International and Pride. Our JEDI Captains are involved in promoting events at the school, including IDAHOBIT Day, the Pride Concert, Cultural Day, and a range of Indigenous activities.

2023 Green Pal Project

Junior School Buddy Reading Program Our Year 7 and 8 students are building connections and boosting reading confidence in our Year 1 and 2 students through the Junior School Buddy Reading Program. Twice a week during Terms 1 to 3, older students visit the Junior School before classes begin, spending around 30 minutes reading with their younger buddies.

This heartwarming program not only enhances reading skills but also fosters a sense of companionship and support across different age groups.

2023 JEDI Captains Lucy Ham and Chloe Warmington at IDAHOBIT Day

2022 Junior School Buddy Reading Program

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CONNECTIONS

Old Grammarian Academic Mentors Violet and Lola

CALLING OLD GRAMMARIANS Two exciting new initiatives are providing opportunities for our Old Grammarians to give back and stay connected. Recognising how they benefitted from the strong relationships they enjoyed, many of our graduates are seeking to continue to forge lasting bonds once they finish school.

Old Grammarians’ Academic Mentoring Program These paid positions provide opportunities for our most recent graduates still living in Ballarat while providing important academic support for our current VCE students.

New in 2023, this program draws on the skills and knowledge of recent high-performing graduates to provide mentoring to current senior students as they navigate their VCE and the end-of-year VCAA examinations.

Mentors provide general advice on good revision study habits as well as tutoring in subject-specific areas as they circulate through Year 12 study areas.

Current Year 12 students have engaged enthusiastically with our first-ever cohort of Academic Mentors: Annie Collins (2021), Kitty Wills (2022), Lola Speer (2022), Violet Cotsell (2022), and Mia Toering (2022).

We thank these Old Grammarians for their commitment to this Program.

Old Grammarians’ Career Mentoring Program This program was launched by the Ballarat and Queen's Old Grammarians' Association (BQOGA) in 2023. It leverages the collective wisdom and experience of our Old Grammarian network to empower the professional growth of our youngest Old Grammarians to navigate their career paths with confidence and purpose and to make meaningful contributions and thrive in their chosen field.

Building on the success and growth of our careers events over the past few years, this program is designed not only to forge lasting relationships that continue to inspire and empower beyond the program but also to strengthen the bonds within our Old Grammarian community. An experienced mentor is matched with a young Old Grammarian to provide one-on-one support and guidance with a focus on professional and personal development, industry knowledge and networking opportunities.

The overwhelming positive response so far is testament to the willingness of our Old Grammarians to invest in nurturing the next generation and fostering a culture of collaboration and lifelong learning.

“ As a proud Old Grammarian, I was thrilled to join the inaugural BQAGS Mentoring Program in the role of a mentor. The opportunity to connect with a highly passionate and talented woman ‘early’ in her career and explore goals, challenges and emerging opportunities has been both rewarding and enriching. That said, the highlight is the sense of creating a mutually beneficial partnership that will continue well beyond the completion of the program”, Katie Foulkes (1994), Mentor “ The mentoring program has been a great experience for me so far. I feel so lucky to have been paired with my Mentor”, Tom Bromley-Lynch (2017), Mentee “ It’s been so nice to have an external sounding board outside of my organisation… it has really opened my eyes to all the opportunities available”, Abbey Mahncke (2017), Mentee

We’d love to hear from Old Grammarians who are interested in being involved in our mentoring programs in 2024 Please complete the volunteer form here.

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INSPIRING OLD GR AMMARIAN

INSPIRING OLD GRAMMARIAN JESSIE MACNEIL-BROWN 1996

LEADING POSITIVE CHANGE THROUGH MEANINGFUL ACTION

Jessie and her Ben & Jerry’s co-creator with their new flavour created with refugee entrepreneurs

When it comes to her work life, two things are not negotiable for changemaker Jessie Macneil-Brown – being part of a brand that “is a force for good” and being part of a workplace where “you can have fun”.

The expectation that brands, especially big brands, have a social purpose has become more mainstream and that just raising money for causes or even ensuring your supply chain is sustainable, is no longer good enough according to Jessie.

“People want to know what your values are and see that you live them. They want you to stand for something. They want to see meaningful actions. They expect your CEO to come out and say something when the time calls for it.”

She believes that increasingly employees want to work for a company that shares their values.

“Whether it’s climate, equality or social justice”.

Jessie has spent her entire adult life campaigning for change. Now based in the UK, she is currently Ben & Jerry’s Head of Social Mission and Activism in Europe and the UK and is chair of Monash University’s Global Leaders Advisory Network for the UK. 22

Her work at Ben & Jerry’s is focused on advancing the rights of refugees and asylum seekers. Jessie says that activism in this space and calling out governments is especially important right now in the face of what she describes as “cruel and inhumane refugee policies”.

“Ben & Jerry’s mission has always been to make great ice cream, be a profitable business and make the world a better place.

A big part of what we do is to use the Ben & Jerry’s brand and show business leadership to influence change. ” An important part of this work is building strong refugee entrepreneur programs.

“Working with the refugee entrepreneurs brings us hope when we’re dealing with such challenging issues.”

When she talks about the importance of being part of a workplace that values fun, Jessie quotes Ben & Jerry’s co-founder Jerry Greenfield, “If it’s not fun, why do it?”.

Doing good and having fun are also front and centre as she reflects on her time at Ballarat Grammar.

“We had the most amazing teachers. They made it fun and gave us the space to have fun. They also went over and above to

encourage us and facilitate opportunities, whether that was taking us to Melbourne to hear a speaker or taking the time to encourage discussions on topics slightly off the prescribed curriculum.”

A Prefect in her final year, Jessie speaks passionately about the wide range of opportunities she had at Grammar: “all the Outdoor Ed (understanding nature and understanding ourselves in extreme conditions)”; “the rowing (it taught me the importance of discipline, fitness, teamwork and having the right mindset and I loved the Head of the Lake days when everyone comes together)”; and “especially the drama, the public speaking, the literature, all the arts and culture (I absolutely loved doing the Musical every year)”.

The focus on volunteering at Grammar was a highlight for her.

“It was not only encouraged but prioritised. I jumped at that.”

But it’s the connections with her classmates that Jessie says had the biggest influence.

“Everyone in my year really inspired me. Each person had such different interests and life journeys. At school we looked out for each other and encouraged each other. We’re still

(Head of Global Activism) as moments when “all of my worlds kind of came together”.

Jessie’s involvement in politics and activism came later when she was at Monash. She was an editor of the student newspaper which was active in highlighting awareness about a wide range of issues from student poverty to corporate greed to refugee detention.

“I’d worked in retail, starting at Wendouree Village, from the moment I could, plus they had the activism element. I thought, ‘I have to do that job’.”

Things, as they say, went from there. After leaving Monash Jessie got involved with Greenpeace (volunteering as a climate campaigner) and worked for The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne’s Starlight Children’s Foundation (taking on the assistant manager role of Captain Starlight).

She then moved to the UK where she worked in marketing while studying for a Master’s degree before bringing all her experience together as Head of Global Activism at The Body Shop and Head of Global Campaigns at IKEA in Sweden.

She describes the opportunities to work at L’Oréal (Jessie’s first job in marketing where she “learned so much”) and The Body Shop

Reflecting on her work on multiple global campaigns, Jessie says her approach is always to create movements of people with shared values. From a long list of achievements she names two as the ones she’s most proud of.

“The Body Shop’s campaign that we ran on human trafficking of women and children contributed to legislation being changed in over 20 countries. The Amnesty International campaign on sexual and reproductive rights led to women being released from prison in El Salvador and kickstarted the debate on decriminalising abortion in Ireland.”

Outside of work, Jessie continues to look for local activism and volunteering opportunities.

“Working at a high level around policy and strategy, it’s important to me to not lose sight of what’s happening in my community at a human level.

INSPIRING OLD GR AMMARIAN

quite close. Recently 20 of us were in Italy together for a friend’s wedding.

As someone who now employs people, Jessie believes that it’s the things that can’t be taught that are the most important qualities you can bring to the workplace.

“Having the right attitude and giving something a go will get you so much further than you think. Staying curious and flexible.

Trusting your instinct. Going where you’re going to get the most of out of it and, of course, where you think you’re going to have fun.

“And always leading with kindness, a value that’s so strong and deep at Ballarat Grammar. We need more of it in the workplace and the world right now. It’s about asking ourselves, ‘How can we be the leaders that really take that forward?’”

Jessie presenting at The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity

1996 Latin students

“ We had the most amazing teachers. They made it fun and gave us the space to have fun. They also went over and above to encourage us and facilitate opportunities."

The Body Shop's human trafficking campaign to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva

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OG COMMUNIT Y NEWS

OLD GRAMMARIAN AND COMMUNITY NEWS

Alan Beech, Luke Tan and Adele Ryan

Luke Tan (2022) on receiving an award for Systems Engineering at the VCE Premier’s Awards in July. This was an outstanding achievement for Luke and a proud moment for his parents and his Year 12 Systems teacher, Alan Beech.

Georgia Cox

CONGRATULATIONS Ethan Cavanagh (2016), on a successful year in the world of comedy, his show “Presentation is Everything - An Hour of Power(Point Comedy) The Show”, which he has performed with his long-term collaborator Sweeney Preston for two years, won the best comedy award at the 2023 Dunedin Fringe Festival.

Rene Caris (2016) on being signed by GWS Giants ahead of the upcoming AFL Women's season.

Annie Collins (2021) on receiving the Rising Star award for the Ballarat Miners in July.

Georgia Cox (2021) who received a full scholarship for basketball at Eastern Illinois University, an NCAA Division 1 college. Here, she will complete a Bachelor of Commerce and Finance whilst pursuing her dream of playing high-level basketball.

Tom Daunt (1990) who was appointed as the the Global Joint Managing Director of Aldi earlier this year.

Arthur Fairbairn-Calvert

Clive Fairbairn-Calvert (2010) and wife Emily who were delighted to welcome their son Arthur John, born in November 2022.

Hamish Hare (2022) who recently took centre stage at the prestigious Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland with the Massed Pipes and Drums.

Hamish and his Scots School Albury Pipe Band colleagues achieved Scottish Champions in 4b status and triumphed at the World Pipe Band Championships.

James (2013) and Sarah Fox (Walker, 2014) welcomed Alice Kate Fox in June at Mansfield District Hospital.

Lucy Stephan OAM (2009) and the Australian Women's Four crew, who won Silver in the final round of the World Rowing Cup in Switzerland in July.

James, Sarah and Alice Fox

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WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Jo Dane (Billing,1984) has spent the last 12 years at global architecture firm Woods

Bagot, helping universities and schools modernise their campus infrastructure in Australia, New Zealand, the USA, and the UK. She completed a PhD on "New Generation Learning Environments in Higher Education".

She recently started her own business, Educology, to continue working with educational institutions.

Braith McClure (1993), a graduate of the University of Melbourne in 1998, has had a successful career in the surveying industry.

He initially worked in Boston, Massachusetts,

and later spent 13 years in Melbourne, specialising in high-rise construction. He has since shifted his focus to land development and geospatial mapping. Currently, he holds the position of General Manager at a surveying firm. Braith is happily married to Isobel, and they have two children.

OG COMMUNIT Y NEWS

Giles Bartram (1983) moved to the Barossa Valley region in 1999 and married Kathryn in 2001, and they have three children together.

He is a dedicated high school teacher and has served as a Humanities Coordinator at his current school for an impressive 15 years. His career highlights include being awarded joint SA History Teacher of the Year in 2014 and his current role as a "Lead Practitioner" for SACE Ancient Studies.

Jessica Patterson-Gavin (2012) recently moved back to Victoria after living in Brisbane for the last eight years and started medical school (University of Melbourne - Rural Stream) this year.

OLD GRAMMARIANS RECONNECTING David Hay (1984) and Ben Ingleton (1985) crossed paths at the Lord's Tavern just before the Second Test in June. Ben, a former staff member, was accompanied by his brother, Andrew Ingleton (1980).

It truly is a small world!

The 4 (older) Trebles - In June, John Marriot OAM (1955), Peter Hannaford AC (1957), Bob Northey (1957) and Blair Keane (1955), also known as the “4 boy trebles”, met for lunch in Melbourne.

The gathering demonstrated old School connections and networks!

Blair and John left Grammar in 1955 and last saw each other in 1965.

The last time they saw Bob and Peter would have been around 1955.

David Hay and Ben Ingleton

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OG COMMUNIT Y NEWS

OLD GRAMMARIAN AND COMMUNITY NEWS We mourn the passing of these members of our community and pass on our condolences to their family and friends.

DEATHS Jacqui Dark (1985), a former student (1978-1982) and past staff member (1990-1994) known to students as Mrs Moran, daughter of Dr Dot Wickham (former School Archivist), and sister of Andrew (1987). She was a revered figure in Australian opera. Her photo proudly graces the WCPA Wall of Musical Fame alongside other prominent alumni.

Anne Grandison, a past staff member of the Junior School teaching for over 19 years from 1981 to 1999, passed away in May. Anne is remembered with affection and respect by her colleagues and students.

Anne Grandison with her Year 3 class in 1988

Past staff member Fr Tony Johns, died in July Tony met his wife, Peg Treeby (dec. 2015), in the Grammar staff room more than 70 years ago. Their son, Paul (1980) and six grandchildren are past students of the School. Tony was ordained late in life; and he and Peg attended the baptism of their great-grandson, in the Chapel of St Mark, in 2013.

Richard Parslow (1964) passed away in July of this year. He was in the First XVIII in 1964. His enthusiasm for football continued throughout his life.

Frank Rinaldi (1973), son of Frances (1932) and Nance, loved husband of Di and father of Pip (2004) and Liz (2006), passed away in September. Frank much enjoyed three years of boarding life and was a member of the First Crew in 1973. Julian Kaye (1973) and Drew Valentine (1973) attended the celebration of Frank's life.

Many readers will have fond memories of Elaine Renney, deeply loved wife of Graeme (dec. 1997), Headmaster from 1971 to 1979, and loved mother of their five daughters Jane (1975), Helen (1976), Sally (1978), Libby (1979) and Kate, who was enrolled as a four-year-old in 1977. Elaine passed away in July this year, after a difficult last few years with several health issues, throughout which she maintained her grace and dignity.

Elaine provided enormous support for Graeme during his time at the School. She led the team that produced the marvellous recipe book “Grammar Fare’ for the 1979 Grammar Fair.

Past staff member and Old Grammarian Richard (Dick) Seddon AM (1952) passed away in August 2023. He attended Ballarat Grammar for just one year in 1952; he made his mark by being appointed as a Probationer and being awarded Colours in football, cricket, and athletics. He was appointed to the teaching staff at the School in 1955, continuing until 1957.

Dick received an Order of Australia AM for services to international business and Australian Rules Football.

Rita McFerran with Vicki Jacobs. Kelly Saunders and Georgia Farmer

Past staff member Rita McFerran passed away in August this year, Rita was a Senior School staff member from 1983 to 2001, mother of Ross (1986) and Kevin (1988). She set up the School’s remedial and gifted programs, including Ad Astra. She instilled an appreciation of high standards and was the recipient of a National Excellence in Teaching Award in 1994. Fondly remembered as a House Tutor in Nevett and Krome and MOD in Woodbridge, Rita was Wardrobe Mistress for the School Productions for many years, accompanied the first of the School’s trips to China and became a mainstay of subsequent tours.

Ron Hall, Beckworth Trust Trustee, Graeme Renney, Headmaster, and Elaine Renney, naming the Beckworth II in 1975

Grammar Fare 1979 Book

Dorothy St Clair (Dewhurst, 1944) was a student at Queen’s in 1943 and 1944. Her roll number was 1017. Her brothers, John (1944) and David (1958), attended the Boys’ School. In our Junior School, Dewhurst House honours past teacher, Mrs Mabel Dewhurst, Dorothy’s mother.

Please note that in the last edition of Boomalacka, alongside the tribute for Grenville Tonzing (1950), the photo of the First Crew in 1950 was incorrectly captioned and should have read: (Cox) P.P.L. Gibbs, (Stroke) B. Newsome, (3) G.A. Cutter, (2) G. A. Tonzing.

(Bow) J. C.C Flammer, (Coach) O. Hauser, Esq. Rowing Colours were awarded to all members of this crew.

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As this will be our last contribution to Boomalacka, we wish to acknowledge the strong support, interest, encouragement and appreciation that we have received from Stephen Higgs and Adam Heath, the members of the Board of Directors and the entire School community since commencing our work in the School Archives in 2007.

We consider ourselves to be most fortunate to have had the opportunity to work together in a symbiotic partnership; the role has been stimulating and very worthwhile, and our joint institutional memory has been invaluable. Protecting the integrity of the School’s history has been of paramount importance. We will miss this role very much!

In the years ahead, we look forward to maintaining our close association with the School begun fifty years ago.

Nola and Ross Squire School Archivists

CONTRIBUTIONS Thanks to the Old Grammarians and friends for the items contributed in recent months. Their generosity and thoughtfulness are appreciated greatly.

The House that Wool Built In 1969, the production of this book was a highly successful fundraising initiative of the Parents' and Friends' Association for both Boys' and Girls' Schools.

John Jones, Art Teacher, Boys' School, from 1963 to 1969, has kindly contributed a copy of the book. He was the artist responsible for the splendid sketches, and the writer of the text was Nina Valentine.

His donation included details of the Launch by Dame Mabel Brookes, newspaper cuttings, photographs, and Minutes of the Book Committee. Sales of the book exceeded even the most optimistic predictions, enabling the purchase of two Ford Transit buses, one for Queen’s and one for Ballarat Grammar.

ARCHIVES ALIVE

ARCHIVES ALIVE Noni Gabb (2005) and past staff member from 2017 to 2019, forwarded a Staff polo shirt and Hayhoe Polo Shirt, her School tie and a copy of Boomalacka.

Dennis Johanson (1973) and Robert Lewers (1966) delivered their School caps.

Jenny Grace (Lynes, 1968) provided the Programme for the Queen's Annual Sports 1967.

Kay Blake (Tucker,1963) sent four photographs and a Queen’s book prize.

Lesley Way (Sheehan,1955) posted 5 publications of M.A.G. and her blazer pockets and hatbands.

Josephine Dowd (Willis, 1962), daughter of Jean Brownbill (1933) has given a photo which includes Jean, who attended Queen’s CEGGS from 1925 to 1933, and a Boys’ School Lapel Pin Badge.

Heather Clarke (Gower, 1963) sent consecutive editions of M.A.G 1951 to 1964, a Queen's CEGGS Pennant, her embroidered Blazer Pocket and Hatband, a First Place ribbon and a red woollen doll along with the Programme and badge from the 2008 reunion and her Queen's CEGGS Award of Honour with a summary of her achievements, signed by Winifred Woodbridge,1963.

Susan Patterson (Taylor,1958) delivered a letter of thanks from Miss Woodbridge, written in June 1974, after receiving a telegram from Susan and her friends Pam and Anita, following the opening of Woodbridge House, named in her honour; a 1940s "bow" from a Hatband, either Queen's or Winton and two hatbands from Queen’s CEGGS, one with a white mitre emblem and the other with the full colour crest worn by Prefects.

Colleen Ludbrook (White,1955) and Family have given an artwork, a pen and wash by Judith Perry, of the first Chapel of St Mark, to the School where all of Colleen and David’s children were baptised. The work was purchased at the Art Exhibition held in November 1979, in the Must Memorial Library.

Life Governor, Pam Coghlan (Hall, 1968) contributed 18 items of interest, including an umbrella given to her mother, Mavis Hall (Heinz, 1938), by Miss Woodbridge and a book prize from Queen’s College, signed by Larritt and Hayhoe, presented to Olga Katharine Magdalene Heinz in 1895. Olga was a talented musician and student. This book is one of the oldest items in the School’s historical collection. Olga was the second daughter of John Heinz and Sophie Depp, German immigrants who had married in Ballarat in 1877. John was Mayor of Ballarat in 1899 and 1900. Descendants of the Heinz family continue as students at our School.

Launch of The House that Wool Built. Pictured l-r: Nina Valentine, Dame Mabel Brookes, Mr Dart, Mrs Dart and John Jones

The Art Department was delighted to receive The David Thomas AM (1955) Book Collection, a very valuable, useful reference collection for students and teachers. This generous gift to Ballarat Grammar from the Estate of the late David Thomas AM, was made with the support of his wife, Brenda Thomas, to whom sincere thanks is extended.

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BQOGA E VENTS

BQOGA EVENTS OLD GRAMMARIANS' ASSOCIATION UPDATE Greetings from the Old Grammarians' Association! We've been bustling with activity recently and wanted to share some exciting updates with you:

wine glasses, or a warm vest to keep you cozy during cooler months, we've got something to suit everyone. You can explore these exciting additions on our website or reach out to us for more details.

We've enjoyed hosting our recent reunions for various peer years, including the Gala Reunion for 1983, 1993, 2003, and 2013, the 2020 2 Year Reunion. These gatherings have been filled with nostalgia and heartfelt connections.

Mark your calendars for our Annual General Meeting on Monday 26 February 2024. We extend a warm invitation to all Old Grammarians to attend and even consider joining our committee. It's a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of Ballarat Grammar, build connections, and make a meaningful impact.

Our boys’ and girls' football teams showcased their skills in May and June during the Heritage Football matches. The teams donned Heritage jerseys, and we were honoured to present them before the games. Several Old Grammarians and current AFL and AFLW players, including Lloyd Meek and Maggie Caris, returned to cheer on the teams. Best on-ground honours went to Angus Watson for the boys' match and Milly Sharp for the girls’ match.

We are excited to present a new range of Old Grammarians' merchandise this year. Whether you need an umbrella to stay dry,

BALLARAT CAREERS & FUTURES FESTIVAL: SHAPING FUTURES TOGETHER In August, the Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts hosted the Ballarat Careers & Futures Festival with over 400 attendees.

Thanks to our dedicated exhibitors, presenters, staff, students, and volunteers, the event was a resounding success. Special thanks to the Alfredton Rotary Club for its support!

Evolving from the Ballarat Careers Expo, dating back to 1995, this event offers firsthand insights into various professions, allowing attendees to connect with professionals and learn about courses and requirements. It's a vital bridge between career aspirations and practical knowledge, empowering individuals to make informed decisions.

The Festival demonstrates our commitment to supporting the wider Ballarat community.

Thanks for participating ithis year; we'll see you again in 2024!

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If you've recently updated your contact details, we appreciate it! If not, please take a moment to complete the alumni update details form on our website at www.bgs.vic.edu.au/alumni-update-details We look forward to engaging with you through our events and activities in 2024. Your support and involvement make all the difference!

Tom Hunt (2012) President, Old Grammarians Association

BQOGA E VENTS

BQOGA EVENTS HEADMASTER'S LUNCHEONS: A TIME FOR RECONNECTING Our annual Headmaster's Luncheons, hosted

by Headmaster Adam Heath and Director of Development Travis Polkinghorne, brought together familiar faces in Sydney and Queensland. These heartwarming gatherings were about more than just good food and beautiful venues; they were moments of reconnection and camaraderie.

At the Australian Club in Sydney and Harry's on Buderim in Queensland, attendees shared laughter, stories, and the joy of being part of the Ballarat Grammar community. In an increasingly digital world, these face-to-face interactions reminded us of the enduring spirit that binds us.

Graham Munson, Sylvia Munson, Graeme Wright, Mary Wright, Margaret West and Graeme West

We eagerly look forward to planning more gatherings in the coming year. Thank you to all who joined us, and stay tuned for updates on future celebrations that bring us closer as a community.

Brooke Cushin and Bill Thomas

Graeme Gibb, Sally Ridgeway, David Long and David Harris

2024 EVENT DATES

Tom Devine and Lisa Moore

24 March

FOSSIL Gathering (Past Staff Reunion)

12 April

50+ Luncheon (1974 and back)

10 May

2022 2 Year Reunion

24 July Headmaster’s Luncheon - Sydney 26 July Headmaster’s Luncheon - Queensland 14 September Gala Reunion - 1984 (40), 1994 (30), 2004 (20) and 2014 (10) 2 November 2019 5 Year Reunion Adam Heath and Bruce Vaughan

Ian Harris, Glenn Harris and Robin Trotter

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BQOGA E VENTS

BQOGA EVENTS

Class of 2013

GALA REUNION FOR 1983, 1993, 2003 & 2013: WHERE MEMORIES AND CONNECTIONS FLOURISHED On September 9th, Ballarat Grammar hosted a Gala Reunion, welcoming over 200 alumni celebrating 10, 20, 30, and 40-year milestones. Held in the Memorial Dining Hall, the afternoon was filled with reminiscing, laughter, and heartwarming conversations.

Guests were also treated to a campus tour to explore recent developments and visit the displays of memorabilia. The positive energy and deep connections among former students were evident, highlighting the enduring ties to Ballarat Grammar.

Post-reunion dinners extended the celebration, reinforcing lasting friendships and shared memories that define our community.

Mark Warwick, Angus Wright, Callum Evans, Xavier Walsh, Alex Hynes, Sam Hooper, Matt Nevett, Josh Draffin and Emma Hills

Philip Dynon, Daniel Degan, Tom Irvine, Matthew Tunbridge, Chira Crump, Louisa Irvine and Cameron Slattery

Zach Harris, Elliot Lade and Xavier Walsh

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Jess Trigg, Nadia Fink, May Thomas and Felicity Kew

Ashlee Kaye, Alex Rowe, Isla Tobin, Andrew Scherick and Poppy Saxton

BQOGA E VENTS

Georgie Hawker (Morton), Sophie Bennet, Emma Hills (with Ollie Ryan), Caitlin Headon, Hannah Wise (with Winnie Curwood), Daria Dyer, Emily Coutts and Stephanie Headon

Linsey Forbes and Verity McLean (McCracken)

Tegan Hamilton with the mural she painted

Evan Brumley, Marissa Black, Luke Myers, Kate Campbell, Kara Sperrer (Watson), Kate Brommeyer, Reshma Pawar, Kim Myers, John Davis and Emily Davis

Class of 2003

Tegan Hamilton, Brent Robinson, Kim Myers, Luke Myers, Benjamin Deutscher and Katherine Brommeyer

Nick Burcell, Martin Long and Joseph Sovolewski

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BQOGA EVENTS

Ross Sullivan, Hamish Rankin and Alexander MacDonald

Stephanie Bond, Rose Sim, Alice Crook, Louise Wilson, Lucy Mann, Verity McLean (McCracken) and Merryn Merrifield (Smith)

Class of 1993

Leisha Ward, Bradi Owens, Penny MacGashlan, Meaghan Harmer, Tanya Lea and Anna Wagg

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Anthony Stickland, Ashley Martin and Daniel Murnane

BQOGA E VENTS

Melita Corfee (Reynolds), Max Stowe and Serena McNicol

Scott McIntyre, Kate Wilson, Josh Ford and Andrew Cartledge

Shannon Harris (Mitchell), Bradley Weeks, Johnathon Inglis and Janine Harris (Evans)

Matthew Chapman, Adam Gruer, Scott McIntyre, Stacey Moncreif, Melita Corfee (Reynolds), Serena McNicol and Simon Rudd

Class of 1983

Karen Gould, Kate Deale (Doull), Lesley Fawell and Barbara Pinkerton

BALLARAT AND QUEEN’S ANGLICAN GRAMMAR SCHOOL 201 Forest Street, Wendouree Victoria 3355 Australia P +61 (0)3 5338 0700 F +61 (0)3 5338 0991 E bgs@bgs.vic.edu.au WWW.BGS.VIC.EDU.AU

BAL L ARAT AND Q U E E N ’S ANGL I CAN GRAM M A R S C H O O L