Boomalacka - Issue 119, Winter 2020

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LEARNING IN A DIFFERENT WORLD Strength in Our Village Agility and flexibility Maximising opportunities

ISSUE 119 | WINTER 2020


K E Y D AT E S COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS We will continue to monitor the current situation with government restrictions to ensure we are doing everything we can to protect our community, and provide advice regarding future planned events and activities as and when possible. Monday 17 August, Term 3 Exeunt Friday 11 September, Term 3 ends September, Round Square Conference CANCELLED FOR 2020

Cover: One of our School’s Vice Captains, Alexander Unmack, made this cape for Head of the Lake 2020. As one of the last major events prior to lockdown due to COVID-19, this year’s regatta was a great celebration of the Ballarat Grammar community - Our Village. Our First Boys’ IV showed strength and determination as they won the title race, and our First Girls’ IV rowed admirably in their second placing to Loreto. The boys’ side of the shed won the Boys’ Aggregate on the day, displaying technical skill and teamwork throughout the morning.

Monday 5 October, Term 4 starts

Editor

Friday 6 November, Term 4 Exeunt

Mrs Marnie Pullin Head of Communications and Marketing

Friday 13 November, Open Day Thursday 10 Dec, Last day of Term 4 and Presentation Night

OLD GRAMMARIANS’ AND COMMUNITY EVENTS Revised dates for reunions have been set tentatively and will be confirmed at a later date pending Government restrictions.

Special thanks to Nola and Ross Squire, Ballarat Grammar School Archivists, and Claire Hay from the Development Office for all their editorial assistance. Boomalacka readers love reading stories and hearing news about the Grammar family, past and present. If you have something you’d like to share, please contact marnie.pullin@bgs.vic.edu.au

PHOTOGRAPHY

Steve McDonnell, Teagan Glenane,

Thursday 16 July Sydney Headmaster’s Luncheon – Cancelled for 2020

DESIGN

Mass Motion, with contributions from Andrew Watson

PRINTING

Sovereign Press

Friday 17 July Queensland Headmaster’s Luncheon– Cancelled for 2020

PRINTED ON

Nordset Uncoated Stock

Friday 28 August 2018 (2 year) Reunion – tentatively revised date

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.

Saturday 3 October Gala Reunion – Classes of 1980 (40 Year), 1990 (30 Year), 2000 (20 Year), 2010 (10 Year) – currently continuing as planned Friday 6 November 50+ Luncheon – tentatively revised date Saturday 7 November 5 Year Reunion – currently continuing as planned We are in the process of rescheduling many of our Community Gatherings that take place around Victoria and NSW. Please keep an eye on your email/mailbox for your invitation.

COVID - 19 We have been thinking of all those in our community who may have been affected or impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, whether that be in a financial way or in other ways. We continue to connect with many members of our community during this period, and we join others in expressing our gratitude to all front line medical and service personnel and volunteers for their incredible efforts in these extraordinary times.


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HIGHLIGHTS

2

4

Learning at Home

8

Our Village

14

Inspiring Old Grammarian

16

Celebrating success

From the Headmaster

2 FROM THE HEADMASTER 4 LEARNING AT HOME 7 2020 VISION 8 OUR VILLAGE 12 B ALLARAT AND QUEEN’S OLD GRAMMARIANS’ ASSOCIATION 14 INSPIRING OLD GRAMMARIAN 16 CELEBRATING SUCCESS 20 CREATING INSPIRATIONAL LEARNING SPACES 22 GIFTS TO GRAMMAR 24 OLD GRAMMARIAN AND COMMUNITY NEWS 32 ROWING CELEBRATION 34 5 YEAR REUNION 36 50+ LUNCHEON

20

Inspirational learning spaces


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FROM THE HEADMASTER Mr Adam Heath

It was easier and much quicker to cross to this area of London by bike rather than three different tube or train lines. The bike was old and rusting, chosen so as not to be stolen outside one of the Housing Commission flats. Cycling across London was invariably exciting, passing iconic landmarks and ducking between double decker buses and grid-locked traffic. Jimmy, from a family of Nigerian migrants, had a smile that would light up a room and a wicked sense of humour. I had been teaching him for three months with a support service that was established for children who had been expelled, usually from multiple schools. I worked with students with emotional or behavioural difficulties who were unable to attend even the support services unit. These students were taught from home, individually, by a teacher who moved from household to household.


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Initially, Jimmy would miss lessons as he had been out the night before, typically stealing cars, joyriding with friends followed by the inevitable trouble with the Police. In recent times, we’d had a much better run of lessons as learning becomes addictive when progress is made. Jimmy, in Year 10, had learnt his times tables from 2 – 12, and recited them successfully during this class. This young man, who felt he had no aptitude for learning had worked hard and discovered the indescribable satisfaction of gaining a new skill. He was so excited that he asked to celebrate with a cigarette, which I said was against the school rules, not quite knowing which school or what rule. In his excitement he then offered to thank me for his newfound passion for learning by getting me a new bike. Realising his means of ‘acquisition’, I quickly but politely declined the offer and we instead celebrated with a simple high five. I mention this because this small piece of progress was a community effort by teacher, educational psychologist and counsellor to get Jimmy back into learning and, ultimately, back into school.

I was extremely proud of this community working together for the best interests of this young man.

However, my pride in that moment may have been outdone by the way our community has responded to the extraordinary events of 2020. In the second last week of Term 1, we announced and moved to Learning at Home. Our parent community responded with overwhelming support. Our students shrugged in resignation and determined to make the best of it. Our teachers quietly, determinedly, got on with the unparalleled work of delivering a learning and pastoral care program online.

It has been a monumental effort. More than just offering first class learning experience, our teachers have provided a calm, reassuring voice for every child. Every staff member has been extraordinary during this time, adapting and finding creative solutions to an unceasing range of new challenges. Some of our Year 12s were finding Learning at Home understandably challenging. On one Tuesday, Chris Beechey, Head of Middle School, suggested we ask students who had graduated in the last five years to mentor our Year 12 students. On the Thursday we published a ‘call to arms’, asking for Young Grammarian Gurus to volunteer. By the following Monday, we had 200 Gurus committed to spending two hours a week with a Year 12 student via Zoom or phone.

In April, the Board announced a voluntary fee reduction for all families in response to widespread financial hardship in the community. To date, 80 families have donated their fee discount and a further four have made an outright donation to the Ballarat Grammar Community Fund. I conclude by thanking our parents. You have had to juggle myriad tasks: the usual running of household, working from home, for many, and somehow supporting your children in their learning. Despite this, I have received continual offers of help to volunteer at the School, to cook meals for families who might be struggling, to accommodate boarders, to donate funds, and offering constant words of kindness. Thank you. Comparing moments of pride is hard but I don’t think I could feel more proud or be more grateful. Undoubtedly, there will be challenges ahead. But let’s bask in the warmth of knowing that we have got to this point in great shape through our support of one another, through our commitment to the Village that is Ballarat Grammar. Let’s look ahead optimistically in the knowledge that the spirit of kindness that has carried us safely thus far is our surety for whatever the future may hold.


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Year 12 Co-ordinator and Senior Mathematics Teacher Brandon Olver, learned to teach mathematical problems using a lightboard so he could face the students, and then posted the videos on YouTube.

LEARNING AT H O M E Christine Shaw, Deputy Head and Head of Senior School Brianne Cuthbert, Assistant Head, Teaching, Learning and Innovation

In COVID-19 times, flexibility, creativity, courage and rapid decision-making have been the drivers of some of the most significant change in the way learning is delivered that we have ever seen within our school. Three months! In three months, our world, and the world of our learners, in particular, changed in ways we could never have predicted. Three months ago, we used different language to talk about learning. We used terms like ‘inquirers’, ‘engaged’ and ‘collaborative’. We would never have used the terms ‘agile’ or ‘pivot’ in a teaching and learning context. Agility described the physically adept, and pivot was preserved for the mechanics of movement. We would never have thought to use these terms to describe the quality of teaching and learning at Ballarat Grammar. But that was three months ago. Now, we understand the terms agility and pivot to carry different connotations. ‘Agility’ is now the capacity to adapt to a new normal, to prepare for the unknown and to anticipate solutions before situations arise. ‘Pivot’

now captures the ability to respond to new advice and circumstances with resilience and courage. Pivoting requires a solutionfocused mentality, and agility promotes resilience. Now, we can think of no better terms than agility and pivot to define the essence of our teachers and learners during the past three months.

In less than two weeks, educators across the School, from the CEEd to VCE took all that they knew about classroom teaching practice and adapted it to an unfamiliar online environment. Teaching online is not merely a task of transferring content from one learning environment to another. Online teaching is a specialised method and requires its own knowledge and strategies. The past three months have seen an explosion of innovation as we have all discovered new ways of learning and teaching that we will take into the future, even after the pandemic becomes a moment in history. In the first week, our students showed their resilience and adaptiveness as classroombased learning shifted to online platforms like Zoom, SeeSaw and Microsoft Teams. They watched screencasts and uploaded evidence of their learning to Online learning systems, such as Nexus. They did this while they were also grappling with a multitude of life questions and managing a vast influx of information. The enormous change we all experienced forced us to embrace unexpected things. We learnt to slow down, enjoy our families,

try new things, get fitter and pace ourselves. By stopping and ‘looking up’, we’ve learnt to embrace all that we value with just a little more knowledge of how precious it all is. The extent to which our educators have gone to ensure students could continue to learn and thrive has been extraordinary. There were trips up the highway to deliver textiles and ceramics supplies to VCE students who were unable to access practical classes, care packages were posted in the mail to cheer up our VCE students who have missed so many of the milestones that make Year 12 a year to remember, learning packages were collated in the CEEd and Junior School for families to collect, and dozens of library books were made available for collection or posted to students. More broadly, the collaboration that has occurred across the teaching profession has been incredible, as our educators have shared their resources in support of colleagues and learners in other schools. At Grammar, we now have online systems in place for care and wellbeing, service, leadership, music, Assemblies and special events, in addition to the education of students. A sense of normality developed as we ‘ZOOMed’ in each day to see each other in classes. Yet, what could be more abnormal than this? It’s like another world, but we rejoice in all we are seeing, learning and doing, and our cups overflow with positive stories and achievements. Most importantly, the Grammar family – our Village – has maintained its resilience and continues to thrive.


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REFLECTIONS FROM OUR TEACHERS Hannah Wise Middle School Teacher, Chair of Faculty – Humanities, Head of Boarding House – Woodbridge Learning at Home is a little bit like a rollercoaster – you aren’t sure about getting on in the first place, but once you have taken the plunge, it is in equal parts exhilarating and scary. Our students are always at the centre of all we do as teachers, so finding ways for them to effectively learn in a new space, in a very short time, was a challenge. On countless occasions I have been so grateful that we live in a time of wonderful technology which provides a way to continue our teaching and learning albeit in a different way. Very quickly I became confident in a whole new range of programs including Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Screencast-O-Matic – all of which helped to keep students’ learning continuing. Making sure that each student could understand the content and continue to challenge and engage was the focus, and I feel grateful that this was able to continue, sometimes with a hiccup or two, but mostly the transition was positive.

Dart Boarding House students Learning at Home, including some helping out on the farm.

We learned to slow down, enjoy our families, try new things, get fitter and pace ourselves. By stopping and ‘looking up’, we learned to embrace all that we value with just a little more knowledge of how precious it all is. - Christine Shaw

The connectivity we are so lucky to have, has also allowed a daily check in with my tutorial group. Being able to see their faces every day was such an important part of keeping connections and ensuring that the students were going as well as they could. It also helped me to keep the energy up as they are a great reason to be sitting at my desk in the morning. We all took a couple of weeks to adjust after the initial excitement about learning at home, but we soon settled into a new groove which surprised us all. We kept a ‘silver linings of isolation’ list, and each couple of days tried to add to the list. Technology and appreciation for our homes and families have both been high, but most often the girls have given gratitude for their teachers, how much they care for them and how excited they will be to walk into a regular classroom once more. This time has forced us all out of our comfort zone but more importantly asked us to reflect on what we are grateful for – and we have each discovered it is the small things, that we often take for granted, that we won’t be so flippant about in the future.


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Brandon Olver Mathematics Teacher, Year 12 Co-ordinator

James Betts Kindergarten Teacher, Hippos Room, Centre for Early Education

“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.”

It was with some degree of trepidation that I embarked on my first week of the CEEd’s Dual Learning Program during the last days of Term 1. There were so many uncertainties involved in what was a completely new, untrialled, and ever-evolving process. Providing an online Early Childhood Education Program for our children using a host of new technologies and skills, seemed daunting to say the least. And so many unanswered questions! Would the children be able to engage with the online program? Would we be able to continue to foster relationships? Would we be able to provide support for the children’s wellbeing in what was bound to be an extremely challenging and stressful time? After many weeks of involvement in the Dual Learning Program, I am pleased to say that I feel we have accomplished all of these things, in large part, due to the openness, flexibility and cooperation of my colleagues and the CEEd families. I have received overwhelmingly appreciative and positive feedback from parents, especially those whose children continue to learn

— Sir Winston Churchill This quote, by Sir Winston Churchill, succinctly captures two ends of the spectrum of reactions that people could have had during a time such as this. Students, teachers and the entire School community recognised the opportunities during this period of adversity. There are ongoing conversations about how the newly developed skills could transform the way we teach and learn. Perhaps, even, governments will reflect on this period of time and think about what teaching, learning and schools could or should look like in the future? From Whiteboard to Lightboard: For me, personally, I missed the face-to-face interaction with other staff and students. However, teaching from home presented unique challenges that were satisfying to grapple with and overcome. Having some knowledge of creating screencasts and videos for lessons already, the challenge became how to ‘humanise’ this experience. With some research and support from other teachers at Grammar I was able to build and set up a “Lightboard” which enabled me to write on a piece of glass (in a similar way to a Whiteboard) but still face the students during video/explanation. I am very much looking forward to using this Lightboard even after we return to normal classrooms!

I ENJOYED HELPING MY DOG HELP ME LEARN

With restrictions gradually being lifted, there was a huge sense of excitement amongst my colleagues and students on our pending return to School. And whilst we had all desperately missed the daily interactions with our classes, there has been a lot to be gained from delivering lessons remotely. Even though, it has, at times, been challenging to get the balance and content right, I have found the whole experience to be a worthwhile form of professional learning. The conversations that have arisen from this unexpected occurrence have given us all time to pause and reflect on our pedagogy as teachers and parents. I can sense like many others, a deeper appreciation for the interactive, hands-on, community-orientated learning environments that educate our next generation.

Kindergarten Teacher James Betts sing to their class in Seesaw on a post during the lockdown period.

I HAD A MESSY DESK!

IT’S BEEN REALLY FUN AT TIMES

BALLARAT GRAMMAR JUNIOR SCHOOL TIME CAPSULE

I MISSED BOUNCING IDEAS OFF MY FRIENDS

experience - these are some of their thoughts.

Clarice Lisle Junior School Teacher, Year 4 Co-ordinator, Stephen and Sue Higgs Centre, Mount Rowan

Kindergarten Associate Victoria Stewart and

IT MADE ME HAPPY IN ONE WAY, SAD IN ANOTHER

Junior School students were asked about their Learning at Home

from home and I have been surprised myself with how well some of the technologies have facilitated continued connection and relationships between families, educators and the Kindergarten curriculum as the weeks have progressed. I feel proud to have been a part of this significant achievement.

I COULD EAT FOOD! WHENEVER I WANT!

I COULD WEAR WHATEVER I LIKED!

I ENJOYED HAVING LESS NOISES

I GOT TO EAT A LOT

I LOVED SPENDING TIME WITH MY FAMILY


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Our School Captains and Vice Captains on Founders’ Day: Annie Trotter (VC), Alexander Unmack (VC), Aeron Johns (VC), Ben Goldsborough (VC), Kate Hawker (Captain) , Marcus Bedford (Captain), Ellie Litras (VC).

2020 VISION Marcus Bedford and Kate Hawker, School Captains

Undeniably, the blind twists and turns of the year so far have given us an opportunity unseen by any other School Captains. It has certainly not been the year we imagined at the end of 2019, however, being isolated in our own homes has not excused us from the duty and privilege that we have as this year’s school leaders. This new situation has required a close ear to the ground and empathy towards the cohort for our shared discomfort. In this time it was crucial for the leadership group to move quickly and establish to the rest of the School that no-one is alone. The Guardians' Learning@home videos did just that. Our weekly videos encouraged the rest of the School to be involved in some of the following: air guitar, cooking, fitness, art, music, mental health discussions and a weekly ‘Kahoot’ challenge online.

Ben Goldsbrough, Vice Captain, demonstrating the Guardians’ Air Guitar Challenge.

The response from our peers has been greater than we could have ever imagined. It’s in moments like these that we find ourselves and our leadership uplifted by the rest of the School; we are strongly reminded that to be leaders greatly entails supporting and encouraging other future and current leaders around us.

Our central theme for the year is ‘2020 Vision’ – to encourage unity within the community. Quite serendipitously, this theme has only become more relevant this year thanks to the lockdown.

Although it proved difficult to physically unite the student body, as Guardians we have been diligent in keeping the spirits high, encouraging participation and togetherness from our peers who never fail to build upon the unity of our school community. They say hindsight is 2020, and so ‘2020 Vision’ has now taken on a whole new meaning. Looking back on this year we will be reminded of the hope that "rose out of the ashes", our new-found values to maintain connections, calling up those we hold dear. ‘2020 vision’ will now go down in history as a reminder of these values that stood out during this time and we are proud to continue to implement that as our theme this year.


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OUR VILLAGE

During this unique period of time, we have seen members of the Ballarat Grammar Community, our Village, come together to support each other in many extraordinary ways. From Old Grammarian Gurus helping current students with their studies, and others motivating us all to get our daily exercise to achieve our collective ‘Journey to Country’, and families donating their fee reductions back to our Community Fund – Our Village really is an extraordinary place.

“ A village means that you are not alone, knowing that in the people, the trees, the earth, there is something that belongs to you, waiting for you when you are not there.” - Cesare Pavese


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THE BACKYARD CAMPSITE Current Outdoor Education Co-ordinator and OG David Marriott (1995) established a Facebook page — The Backyard Campsite — for the School and broader community to connect over a virtual campfire, and to share pictures and stories. David was overwhelmed with the response to the idea with more than 3000 Ballarat Grammar families, Old Grammarians, and many others around the world joining up. Members made comments that it was wonderful to share the outdoor experience, separately, but together during this strange time across the world.

BALLARAT GRAMMAR BUSINESS DIRECTORY With many family businesses either closed or struggling to continue during and following the lockdown, we have established a Ballarat Grammar Business Directory to support businesses of both current and past families. This Directory enables us all to support one another. If you’re looking to use a business or service, or planning to get away for a break, you can refer to the Directory and, if you can, use a Grammar family business. It’s a great way to be more mindful and to support each other as we move through this incredibly difficult time. You can connect to the Business Directory online via www.bgs.vic.edu.au/our-village or https://businessdirectory.bgs.vic.edu.au/ Are you an OG or past parent with a family-owned business? Would you like to have your business featured in our new Business Directory? Go to www.bgs.vic.edu.au/our-village - click on the Business Directory, then click on ‘Register your business’ to send us your details. While you are there, check out all the other great Grammar family businesses you can support.

JOURNEY TO COUNTRY Exercise remains as important as ever to help keep us physically and mentally fit and healthy. Throughout COVID-19 restrictions, exercise appeared on the very short list of acceptable reasons for being out and about. We encouraged our students, families and staff members, consistently, to ensure they achieved 30 minutes (or more) of exercise every day and shared many opportunities for live fitness sessions, homebased programs, running training, and other online training opportunities. However, something was missing – a connection and a team spirit to work together to achieve a common goal, bringing us closer together during this time of isolation. Unfortunately, our Middle School Trip to Timber Creek was postponed for 2020. And it was at this point that our Journey to Country was born – a House Challenge where we would make a Journey to Country, together, 7000 kilometres in total, to visit our friends at Timber Creek and Kalumburu in North West Australia. The Journey to Country was crafted so that every member of our Community from Prep to Year 12 could take part. Students and staff worked in their Muster/Homeroom/Classroom groups and encouraged each other to complete the journey: 5 minutes of exercise was equal to 1 kilometre on the Journey. And we made it – hello to our friends in Timber Creek and Kalumburu!


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BALLARAT GRAMMAR COMMUNITY FUND As the COVID-19 pandemic started to impact us all so dramatically through enforced restrictions and lifestyle changes, it quickly became evident that some of our school families were experiencing sudden and unexpected financial difficulties. In response to this unforeseen situation, the School Board quickly engaged the full support of the Ballarat Grammar Foundation and the Beckworth Trust to offer financial support to families. The School Board also determined to offer a fee reduction for Term 2 for families with children in the Junior, Middle and Senior Schools, and the establishment of the Ballarat Grammar Village aimed to provide support and resources to past and present Ballarat Grammar families. In offering the fee reduction for Term 2, families were provided with the opportunity of opting out and redirecting the equivalent funds to the Ballarat Grammar Community Fund. It is extremely pleasing and humbling to see the response from our community to this initiative. More than 85 families chose to direct their fee reduction, totalling an amount of $68,040, to either the Ballarat Grammar Community Fund or Ballarat Grammar Foundation Scholarship Fund. Also, other generous donations from families and supporters of the School, providing a further $22,500, have been received for a total amount of $90,540.

The following comments from parents capture some of the sentiment of the impact these initiatives have had on our families:

“ The School’s commitment to providing the financial and emotional support to all families, to allow all students to continue their education uninterrupted for 2020, is incredibly inspirational. We feel very proud to call ourselves Grammar parents.” “ We are extremely proud of the work Ballarat Grammar has put into protecting our community in the current climate. We are grateful for the financial assistance that Ballarat Grammar has offered with respect to the 20% fee reduction. As such, we would like to donate our Term 2 fee reduction to the Ballarat Grammar Community Fund. We make this decision given the support Ballarat Grammar has offered not only us as parents but also our children in their online learning activities. We can appreciate the effort you are all putting in as staff and sincerely thank you”.

The Ballarat Grammar Community Fund is being administered by a sub-committee of the School’s Finance Committee.

The strength of Ballarat Grammar has always been its sense of community, built on trusted relationships. Whilst the challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic have been difficult for us all, the compassion and support shown by our families and those who make up our broader School community have been exemplary and further emphasise our strength.

“The strength of

Ballarat Grammar has always been its sense of community.

$22,500.00 25% $9,240.00 10%

$58,800.00 65%

Total BGCF Fee Rebate donations Total Scholarship Fund Fee Rebate donations Other donations to BGCF


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M OT I VAT I N G O U R S T U D E N T S A N D S TA F F For the Journey to Country, we had many of our successful and sports-loving Old Grammarians film short videos to motivate our students to ‘get on board’ the Journey to Country.

And it worked! Many of our Houses, working as a team, made the 7000 kms to Timber Creek and Kalumburu, and back to Ballarat!

Old Grammarians helped motivate our students and staff: L-R Grace O’Dwyer (2017), Hilary Hazledine (1982), Holly Dobbyn (2014), Lauren Butler (2018), Lloyd Meek (2016), Rene Caris (2016), Stewart Crameri (2006), Tamsin Hinchley (Barnett, 1997), Tarikka Campbell (2019)


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B A L L A R AT A N D Q U E E N ’S OLD GRAMMARIANS’ A S S O C I AT I O N MESSAGE FROM THE INCOMING PRESIDENT, BQOGA

BQOGA thanks Laura for her contribution and achievements during her four-year term.

It is an uncertain time for our School community, following a summer that has witnessed significant challenges and now compounded by COVID-19. As an Association, the Old Grammarians are excited that our students successfully returned to school progressively in Term 2.

2020 and onwards

Annual General Meeting

On Monday 24 February, the Old Grammarians’ Association held its Annual General Meeting. Outgoing President Laura Le Marshall spoke passionately about her association with the School and the significant number of initiatives the Old Grammarians’ Association was able to undertake during her time as President. These included joint discussions between the Committee and the School, leading to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, which greatly strengthens our relationship. We also saw the introduction of the 50+ Luncheons for Old Grammarians, wonderful occasions and very well attended, with many old acquaintances being renewed. The

The Committee will be pursuing a number of initiatives in 2020 including expanding Ballarat Grammar Connect, Careers Breakfasts, Careers Expo involvement, annual Peer Year Reunions, and our 50+ Luncheon amongst others. The Careers Breakfasts will involve Old Grammarians returning to present real time professional information and life experience to assist students with future subject and career choices.

Grills (2017) to the Committee to lend their expertise and experience in achieving our goals. Should any Old Grammarians wish to support the Committee’s activities, please contact us via Mrs Claire Hay, Alumni Relations Officer on Claire.Hay@bgs.vic.edu. au or (03) 5338 0950. On behalf of all Old Grammarians, please stay safe and remain positive during this unprecedented period and we thank you for your ongoing support of our School community.

We strongly encourage all Old Grammarians to sign up to Ballarat Grammar Connect as this is the key platform that we will be using to share information and remain connected with our community. It will become a most useful tool to use for career mentoring and professional networking post Ballarat Grammar - register at www. ballaratgrammarconnect.com. We are delighted to welcome the return of past Old Grammarians’ President, David Perrin (1989), Tom Hunt (2012) and Sophie

John Taylor (1967) President, Ballarat and Queen’s Old Grammarians’ Association

THANK YOU, LAURA LE MARSHALL, OUTGOING BQOGA PRESIDENT

Laura has represented the OGs at countless events over her time as President, sharing her inspiration and wisdom, advice and good humour. She has hosted reunions, presented medallions at Heritage Football matches, and attended many School assemblies, concerts and chapel services. She has worked tirelessly to enhance the OG presence within the School, and we owe her our gratitude and heartfelt best wishes.

For the past five years as President of the Ballarat and Queen’s Old Grammarians’ Association, Laura Le Marshall (MacDonald, 2002) has worn her passion and love for our School on her sleeve. Through her determination and perseverance, OGs now have an online platform, Ballarat Grammar Connect, where our OG community can network and connect, share and mentor. Laura has been instrumental in making this happen and for taking our organisation into a renewed and relevant partnership with the School.


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OG CONNECT NEWSLETTER In April 2020, the Ballarat and Queen’s Old Grammarians’ Association launched the first OG Connect Newsletter designed and written for Old Grammarians. The electronic newsletter will be sent quarterly with the view to engage Old Grammarians in past students’ professional achievements and stories as well as some updates from the School. The first edition featured our recent Old Grammarians volunteering their time to support current Year 12 students through the challenges of studying and Learning at Home. We also covered the recently-launched Ballarat Grammar Business Directory which promotes Ballarat Grammar family businesses within the Ballarat Grammar community. This has been a long-held ambition of the Old Grammarians’ Association and is in line with a number of strategic priorities as outlined in the Association’s Strategic Plan.

Past students are encouraged to contact the Old Grammarians’ Association to share any interesting achievements or updates regarding themselves or other past students and to share stories of interest such as examples of Old Grammarians mentoring each other through study or in a professional sense. The more you are prepared to share, the more interesting the OG Connect Newsletter will become! To share news or ensure that you receive future OG Connect newsletters, please contact Mrs Claire Hay, Alumni Relations Officer at Claire.Hay@bgs.vic.edu.au or phone (03) 5338 0950. You can also make sure you receive OG Connect by signing up to Ballarat Grammar Connect: register at www.ballaratgrammarconnect.com. We look forward to staying in touch with you and sharing more stories and news of our Old Grammarians as they progress on their journey through life after school!

YOUNG OLD GRAMMARIANS IN ACTION The entire school community has embraced the opportunities available within the Learning at Home program. An enormous amount of preparation by our teachers and support staff has led to the seamless delivery of learning and pastoral care online. However, as with any significant change, the Learning at Home program has come with some challenges for our School community, particularly for our 196 Year 12 students who found themselves learning subject content at home. This has presented some unique challenges, with some students potentially feeling alone, anxious and in need of further support. In response to this, our youngest Old Grammarians rallied together and signed up to help and tutor the current Year 12s with their toughest subjects and to provide extra support and motivation while they study. In response to the call for support: + 3 5 Young Old Grammarians signed up within one day to support and promote the Young Grammarian Gurus program - see https:// tinyurl.com/grammariangurus

+ Over 200 Young Old Grammarians, themselves recent Year 12 graduates from the last five years, signed up inside four days to be a Young Grammarian Guru. This response has been overwhelming, and the program is full. According to Harrison Monk (2017): “The main reason I signed up was because during my time at Grammar I found myself surrounded by people, both teachers and peers, who offered so much support and help to me which went a long way in enabling me to achieve my goals and ambitions. I could imagine that with Year 12s at home they don’t have that direct access to teachers and peers and therefore may not be able to seek the help I received during this time. I signed up with the hope that I could help these students in that situation and wished ‘to pass

on the favours that were passed on to me’. I am excited to be involved with Grammar again and hope that through this experience, I can do my little bit in helping students achieve their goals and ambitions despite the circumstances.” John Taylor OG (1967), President of the Ballarat and Queen’s Old Grammarians’ Association, said that “it is fantastic to see Old Grammarians step up and help out fellow Grammarians in a time of real need. This is what being an Old Grammarian is about. As a community we look to support each other when and where we can. I encourage all Old Grammarians to sign up and register to Ballarat Grammar Connect (www.ballaratgrammarconnect.com) so that we can continue to support each other into the future”.


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The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ *Matthew 25:40

INSPIRING OLD GRAMMARIAN Were you at Grammar the day a Navy helicopter landed on the school oval in 1994, and Nathan was hoisted up into the air? Nathan, Emma Dalkin and Brett Nelson were presented with Australian Defence Force Academy Scholarships in front of the whole school. Here, Nathan is pictured being harnessed for ‘lift-off’.


BOOMAL ACK A | 15

N AT H A N GRIL L S (1992)

COVID-19 has brought out some of the best in every ‘community’, with people coming together and supporting each other like never before. Nathan Grills is an excellent example of someone who rolls up his sleeves when the world needs leaders. While Nathan’s ‘heart work’ throughout his medical career has been in India and the main focus of his research work has been in the area of disability inclusion there, his work also includes public health training, research and advocacy and extensive international engagement including various international research collaborations. He is the 2002 Victorian Rhodes Scholar and holds Doctorates of Philosophy and Public Health. He is currently Associate Professor at the Nossal Institute for Global Health at The University of Melbourne, a Senior Research Advisor at the Australia India Institute and works part time as a doctor in Emergency. Nathan has contributed to the establishment of five non-government organisations, focused on health and development. He leads Enabled HealthCare (www.enabledhc.com), a community development organisation in Northern India which focuses on four key areas: disability support, community health, support for widows, and community education. Nathan has had articles published, including on the population health implications of COVID-19 and lockdowns within the context of poverty in India. Nathan’s 63rd trip to India looks like being a while off due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Meanwhile, his significant contribution to leadership and service to the neediest in the world continues. Nathan is married to Claire and they have three children, Jacob, Xavier and Abby who has inspired Nathan in his work with disability. “There is no other person alive who has influenced my life more than my eldest child Abby. She is now nine years old, gorgeous, has a profound physical and intellectual disability, and has taught me so much about myself, faith and life.”

Nathan pictured with his three children.

WE ASKED NATHAN HOW GRAMMAR INSPIRED HIS PATHWAY … Tell us about one of your greatest memories at Grammar.

Probably my experience on the tall sailing ship, the Alma Doepel, thanks to a scholarship offered by Grammar. I was a quiet farm boy with severe juvenile arthritis and never thought I’d be selected. It was quite transformative. It also was the first step towards my love for the sea and deciding to join the Navy. What did you learn at Grammar that has influenced you?

A strong sense of service, the importance of teamwork (hockey, musicals, etc.), that hard work is rewarded, and that you can do anything if you set your mind and heart to it. Most of all, the importance of mateship. Tell us about your most inspiring teacher at Grammar.

Mrs Rucco. Mr Morrison in Year 6. And, especially, Mr Alan Ford. He nurtured my love for Biology and my fascination with the complexity and beauty of not only nature, but also of human life. He also made learning a lot of fun. What motivates and inspires you?

A love for the ‘least of these’*. I came to the Christian faith while at school which motivated me to study medicine and develop skills to serve the world’s neediest and most disadvantaged, such as India’s 100 million or so people with a disability. This has proved to be a strong life compass. What has been your proudest career moment?

Working with the Government of India to develop and accredit a disability training program to be rolled out across the country. It equips community-level workers to respond to disability within their own communities which are extremely poor and often isolated with little or no access to services. The President of India profiled the program during a trip to Australia.


16 | BOOMAL ACK A

C E L E B R AT I N G S U C C E S S We congratulate our 2019 Leavers on their impressive results Ballarat Grammar students received impressive results for their final year of studies in 2019 and we congratulate all our Year 12 Leavers. Luke Williams is the Dux of 2019 for achieving the highest score for subjects completed in his final year. Two students, Thomas Burnett and Sophie John, achieved the School’s top ATAR ranking of 99.75 for Unit 3 and 4 subjects completed over their final two years. With five students achieving an ATAR ranking of 99 or above, 17 students achieving an ATAR ranking of 95 or above, and an impressive 35 students achieving an ATAR ranking of 90 or above, the 2019 students are studying a range of courses to pursue their passions, from Applied Maths and Research, to Medicine and the Arts. Grammar students completing applied learning pathways in Vocational Education and Training and the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning also achieved much success with eight students securing apprenticeships for the start of the year.


BOOMAL ACK A | 17

LUKE WILLIAMS, 2019 DUX With a zest and enthusiasm for everything he encounters, Luke took every opportunity to be engaged and contribute positively to activities and events at school. His leadership style and kindness saw him emerge as a leader in his cohort and he was a School Vice-Captain in 2019. Luke has a strong sense of justice and compassion which has been displayed in a multitude of service activities. His contribution to the Music School as a member or leader of numerous ensembles, including the Stage Band and Sultans of Swing, was outstanding, and exemplified his commitment to leadership and teamwork. His professional interests lie in the field of Applied Mathematics and Science.

“ Grammar was very special to me because of the wide range of opportunities offered and the constant encouragement and support to take advantage of them..." “Aside from the tremendous academic and pastoral support I received from my teachers, the School gave me the chance to be involved in a range of bands, take part in the School production, play a bunch of different sports and get involved in community service amongst other amazing experiences. I’m proud of taking these opportunities on as they came up. There is also a high importance placed on giving back to the community that has given us so much. It is often easy to forget the privileged position we are in to receive a first-class education in such a safe environment, but Grammar has instilled in

me a constant awareness of how lucky I am and the importance of giving back. “The strength of the Grammarian community has been particularly prevalent in the school’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Grammar Gurus program is such an amazing initiative which highlights the readiness of Grammarians to help each other out and the strength of the community. This strong support helped me to make it through the tough final years of school and has held me in good stead as I progress into the world, knowing that I am a member of such an amazing community.”

Our top achievers: Ruby Green, Thomas Burnett, Sophie John, Teresa Heath, Angus McLean, Justice Nicholson, Stephanie Hancock, Headmaster Adam Heath, Luke Williams, Annabella Lewis, Jesse Cruickshank, Amy Zuell, Ella Squire.

SOPHIE JOHN AND THOMAS BURNETT, 2019 HIGHEST ATAR In accord with her appreciation of beauty, love of learning, kindness, judgement and fairness, as a leader, Sophie showed the ability to balance humility and strength. With a quiet persistence and care of others, Sophie’s ultimate demonstration of leadership was her significant contribution as Captain of Macpherson House. She took an active role in the organisation of all House activities, developing a strong and positive relationship with all the girls and staff. She was involved enthusiastically in Community Service. Sophie won a prestigious Premier’s VCE Award in 2019 recognising her outstanding achievement in VCE English in 2018 when in Year 11. Sophie was effusive about her final year and her time at Grammar: “We are a community of active learners...

"It’s pretty incredible to look around in a classroom and see a group of passionate students all eager to discuss and learn, and it’s the subsequent friendships I’ve formed with both my classmates and my teachers that have helped me grow so much as a person, showing me not only how to be a good learner, but how to be a good person as well.”

Thomas has learned a great deal from being part of the Grammar community. Thomas said,

Thomas’ most significant contribution to the School has been in musical performance. He is an outstanding musician, being able to play multiple instruments. He was a member of school ensembles and bands. His thirst for knowledge and learning resulted in academic success throughout his school years. He has left an impressive legacy: a weekly Wednesday peerto-peer mathematics tutoring group and a fasttracked VCE Mathematical Methods program. As Robin House Captain, Thomas’ strategic thinking and ability to motivate a team were evident. Thomas is resilient and focused in pursuit of his goals and he inspires those around him with his determination. His professional interests lie in the field of Mathematics and Physics.

Whether it be talking with our tute group mentor about his coffee-roasting business, or talking about politics and the education system with my physics teacher Saeed, these relaxed and informal conversations contribute to what makes the School’s sense of community so strong. In addition to formal curriculum, you also get a better understanding of people’s experiences which differ from yours, and of the wider world. Another great part is that you have the ability to ask questions and disagree respectfully, which encourages meaningful interactions.”

“ One of the things which makes Grammar unique is the conversations between staff and students outside of just the course content."


18 | BOOMAL ACK A

PREMIER’S VCE AWARDS The Premier’s VCE Awards recognise students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). We are very pleased to congratulate current Year 12 Finley Japp, and OG Ruby Green (2019), who were announced as recipients of 2020 Premier’s VCE Awards for their work in Units 3 and 4 of subjects in 2019: Ruby for Further Mathematics, and Finley for English completed when he was in Year 11. Finley Japp, current Year 12, received a Premier’s

Ruby Green, 2019 Leaver and OG received a Premier’s

Award for English.

Award for Further Mathematics.

" Grammar students completing applied learning pathways in Vocational Education and Training and the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning also achieved much success with eight students securing apprenticeships for the start of the year."

SEASON OF EXCELLENCE Five of our students were invited to participate in the annual VCE Season of Excellence which includes concerts (Top Class) and exhibitions (Top Designs and Top Arts) in a wide range of artistic fields. Student works are selected by the VCAA assessors and represent outstanding VCE and VCE VET students’ work from 2019. Systems Engineering and Product Design were two areas where Luke DeBuhr, Ryan Anderson and Zoe Thomas excelled. Luke created an articulated prosthetic hand, with the purpose of giving back the functionality of a working hand to amputees. Ryan created the Lavend Stoel (Dutch for ‘live chair’) with the seating segment consisting of a living hinge where the timber bends to accommodate the shape of the chair. Zoe created a “Backpack Stool” (pictured) with the intention that it is to be mediumvolume-produced for children in East Timor

needing modular and flexible seating at school. Their works were displayed in the Top Designs exhibition at the Melbourne Museum. You can see a virtual tour of Top Designs, including their works, online at: museumsvictoria.com. au/melbournemuseum/learning/top-designs2020/#virtualtour

Marcus Bedford, one of our 2020 School Captains, was proud to receive an invitation to join the Top Arts exhibition with his art print “Ballarat” (pictured). Marcus was inspired by German-born artist Andreas Gursky.

“ The work contains 24 buildings in Ballarat, arranged to produce one dense and intense cityscape. It is an accumulation of places that have had a significant impact on who I am today.”

You can see a virtual tour of Top Arts, including Marcus’ work, online at: ngv.vic.gov.au/ virtual-tours/top-arts-2020/ Marcus Govan did extremely well in his Music Performance (Percussion) exam and likewise Ellie Litras in her Dance exam, and both performed in Top Class Music and Dance concerts at the Melbourne Recital Centre in February and March this year.


BOOMAL ACK A | 19

Luke DeBuhr’s articulated prosthetic hand

Ellie Litras selected to perform Zoe Thomas’ Backpack Stool

Marcus Bedford, ‘Ballarat’

for Top Class Dance

Macus Govan selected to perform Ryan Anderson’s ‘Lavend Stoel’

for Top Class Music.


20 | BOOMAL ACK A

Operations and Grounds Teams: THANK YOU! From left: Shane Daly, Nathan Bassett, Mitch Hay, Nathan Morcombe, Andrea Weston, Ian Bilston, Tim Pierce, Tony Van Eekelen, Bruce Wallace, Marita Williams, Wayne Dunn, Ben Van Styn, Rob Van Styn. Absent from photo: Adam Gibson, Justin Hoskin, Paul Van Styn.

C R E AT I N G I N S P I R AT I O N A L LE ARNING SPACES BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS WORKS The work never stops for our busy Operations and Grounds Teams! While our students are on holidays or learning from home, it’s a good opportunity to complete some of the works that otherwise might hinder the normal operating of the School. For our Operations Team, one of the key items completed early in 2020 for the start of the new school year was a completely refurbished Canteen. With the aim to improve traffic flow and create a fresh vibrant space for staff and students to utilise, the preparation space was completely overhauled with new commercial appliances, new counter area, coffee station, lighting, flooring and checkout. It’s amazing!


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For both Operations and Grounds Teams, the last few months have presented an opportunity similar to the summer period, with around 2 months with no students on campus. As a result, many maintenance activities have been undertaken, including fresh paint and deep cleaning across the School using redeployed staff to minimise extra cost.

to the canteen renovation and will minimise congestion around meal times.

Some of the classrooms have been completely overhauled to provide more flexible spaces that can be used for different classes, to meet the needs of the growing school, and different and new ways of learning.

Junior School reception building underway.

Two more Dart House rooms (boys’ boarding) were completed with an additional conversion of a large storage area into a study area for the boarders. With no students on campus, the opportune time presented to undertake planned works to the Memorial Dining Hall and its servery area. The Hall now has a sleek, modern look, with black steel features including bifold doors to open to the Olston Quad when the weather permits. The renovation feels similar

The ongoing major works to the front of the Junior School continue. These include a new reception area for our Junior families, new meeting rooms for specialist meetings, a new staff area, and a new Dance/Drama and After School Care area.

New annual flowering display on the front lawn.

the Back (Top) Oval has been removed and replaced with a new and improved type of synthetic grass on which both Summer and Winter sports can be played. 30 new dual recycling/waste bins have been installed around the school, and shade sails erected in the Green Quad to provide further shade for students during the warmer months.

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22 | BOOMAL ACK A

GIFTS TO GRAMMAR Nola and Ross Squire, School Archivists

We thank, most warmly, the Old Grammarians and friends who have donated items to the School’s historical collection in recent months. Their generosity and thoughtfulness are appreciated greatly.

Winners of the French prize 1960 (from left): Barbara Ward, Kay Tucker, Jenny Ingham, Sue Teschendorf, Lorrie Valpied, and Leonie Pescott.

Edward (Ted) Luff (1968), a boarder from 1963 to 1968, donated his blazer, cap and tie.

Kay Blake (Tucker, 1963) donated a significant and interesting collection of memorabilia and information including a photo of the 1960 French Prize winners and her certificate. It is hard to imagine today’s boarders washing their hair in the laundry, let alone in an outbuilding! And we had not heard before that the Matron, Sister Matthews, ruled the boarding house.

Jenny Scott-Wickham (White, 1956) provided a collection of memorabilia, including a photograph of Woodbridge House students and staff in 1983 when Jenny was an M.O.D.

Jill Salathiel (McRae, 1963) has gifted a cup and saucer, displaying the Queen’s CEGGS crest and an LP Record of the Grammar Schools’ Choir 1959.

Mrs Jill Ross-Perrier, wife of John Ross-Perrier (1953) made a generous donation of John’s Prefect’s cap, his Old Grammarians’ Association tie, and some photographs. They have now been catalogued and stored.

From David Lidgett (1963) a collection of memorabilia including Athletics, Boat Race and Speech Night Programs, the Order of Service for the Blessing of the new Junior School 1959, Grammarian magazines, and photographs.

Jenni Vincent (1976) donated her Leaver’s Prize, documents, photographs and other memorabilia from 1973 to 1976, including the School Crossing flag that was last used at Queen’s CEGGS in Mair St in 1972.

In addition to his role as the first Master-inCharge, later termed Head of Junior School, and his considerable classroom teaching load, he acted as a Housemaster for eleven years, where his methodical influence will be recalled with appreciation and respect for a difficult task that was carried out without fear or favour. Ian has donated his copies of the Second Book of The Victorian Readers, The Winds of Influence and The House that Wool Built. Ian and his wife, Rebecca, live in Melbourne. Malcolm J. Matthews (1966) donated his FRIEDRICH FELD School Diary from 1960. The General Rules of School, the Boarders’ Rules and the University Matriculation requirements were of particular interest. How things have changed!

L' Arc-en-Ciel

ara vogueSusanvers Mas ag Patterson (Taylor, 1957) Thank you,

Sue, for donating an interesting collection of documents, including a very timely copy of a Queen’s CEGGS Health Certificate from the 1940s, and Architect’s drawings from the 1950s for the potential changes to the then main Boys’ School building which did not eventuate.

Richard Smith (1972), son of Padre Smith, School Chaplain 1970 to c. 1975 sent this wonderful photo of his parents Padre and Joy Smith, the Mayoress Mrs Chisholm, and visiting comedian, Derek Nimmo, alias “Mervyn Noote”, which appeared in the Courier c. 1972.

The Second Book of the Victorian Readers.

Many will remember Mr Ian Brown, staff member, 1963 to 1977. Our Junior School’s Brown House was named in his honour. A Queen’s C.E.G.G.S. Health Certificate from the 1940s.


BOOMAL ACK A | 23

Architect’s drawings from the 1950s for potential changes to the main Boys’ School building.

THANKS FOR HELPING! Do you remember the request for help in the last Boomalacka? Help came! Alistair Gray (1965) is delighted and so are the Archivists. Sincere thanks to Diana McGarvie (Schumann, 1969) who loaned the CD which her mother had had made of the LP Alistair was so keen to obtain. With Diana’s permission, copies were made for Alistair and

FROM THE ARCHIVES Speech Night Headmaster’s Report 1919 – Influenza

“In common with other similar institutions we have found 1919 a difficult year for many reasons. In the first place, the Influenza Epidemic compelled us to postpone the opening of the School until 11th March – a month late! This loss of time has been a great handicap all through the year, and to a certain extent must militate against Examination results. Even when we were allowed to reopen, the continued prevalence of the epidemic was a source of anxiety until the end of the second term. In the Boarding House we were fortunate; for although we had 42 boys in residence for a good part of the second term, only 24 were attacked, and these cases were not serious: for this we have largely to thank the unremitting care

for the School’s historical collection. Diana’s brother, John, sang treble in the Choir. Dale Withers (1961) also contacted the School to offer his LP of the Grammar School Choirs for digitising. Thank you! The quality of the singing is most impressive. The recording was made at St Peter’s and James Gullan, the Choirmaster, was the organist.

of Colonel Hardy, and the self-sacrificing devotion of our Matron. Unfortunately, I was myself a victim, and was unable to carry out my duties for six weeks. I take this opportunity to thank publicly the members of the Staff, and also the boys for their loyal efforts to carry on – like Britishers – in my absence. More than half the Day Boys were, at intervals, absent for varying periods owing to the same cause.” E.V. Butler Headmaster, Ballarat Church of England Grammar School, 1919 to 1927

Nobody was conducting. Those attending the next 50+ Luncheon should have the opportunity to hear the recording. One question remains: Was this recording made in 1959 or in 1960?


24 | BOOMAL ACK A

OLD GRAMMARIAN AND COMMUNITY NEWS BIRTHS

DEATHS

To Kate Coghlan (2004) and Nathan Templeton, a son James , born 8 April 2020, brother to Jack. Kate has taken Family Leave from her position as Chief of Staff, ABC News, Victoria.

Brian Cranstoun (1942) passed away on 5 November 2019, in Queensland, aged 90 years. Our sympathies are extended to his family and we fondly remember Brian attending our Queensland Luncheons on several occasions. Brian is survived by four children, nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Proud Grandmother, Amanda Crameri, has advised of the births of two grandchildren; Anna Crameri (2000) and Bradd Denham (1996) welcomed a son, Elias George Denham, born 5 April 2020 in Melbourne, a younger brother for Olivia; and Stewart Crameri (2006) and his wife Jessica celebrated the arrival of a boy, Eric Bernard Crameri on 19 October 2019, in Ballarat.

Mary Devonshire, widow of the former Dean of the Cathedral and School Chaplain from 1979 to 1981, Rev Bill Devonshire, sadly passed away on 4 November 2019. The School offers our sympathy to son Peter (1972) and daughter Libby (1979) and their families. Mary will be fondly remembered by the Woodbridge girls from her time there as MOD. Ron Elliott (1950) passed away on 3 October 2019. He was the brother of Jock (1957), Catherine Hill (Queen’s, 1954) and Janet Coleman (Queen’s, 1961).

Big sister Olivia Denham with new brother Elias.

Another Butler boy was welcomed into the world on 2 February 2020! Shaun Cleary (2004) and his wife, Danika, are proud to announce the arrive of Alfred Jim Cleary, a brother for Hugo. Since leaving Ballarat Grammar, Shaun studied at Melbourne University and completed a Bachelor of Agriculture. Since then, Shaun has been working as a commodity trader with Glencore Agriculture (obviously using all the skills he learnt in Year 11 & 12 Accounting – Mr Pipkorn!). In 2014, Shaun and Danika moved to Esperance in Western Australia to manage a large, broadacre cropping property and moved back to Ballarat in 2019. Shaun is now working for a large, multinational, chemicalbased company in Ballarat, managing the Victorian arm of the business.

Elizabeth Wood (Johnson, 1955) advised us of the sad passing of her sisters in 2019, Dorothy Marion de Chair Graham (Johnson, 1941) and Mary de Chair Steele (Johnson, 1948), daughters of the fifth Anglican Bishop of Ballarat, The Right Reverend William Herbert Johnson. Dorothy attended Queen’s from 1937 until 1942, where she made two lifelong friends – Dorothy Andre (Vernon, 1940 – cousin of John Vernon, 1947) and Lady Leila Inglis (Butler, 1941, daughter of E.V. Butler, second Headmaster of the Boys’ School). Dorothy trained as a Diversional Therapist with the Red Cross and worked in the Victoria Park Army Camp before moving to a camp on the Mornington Peninsula rehabilitating Australian soldiers who had been prisoners of war. It was there that she met Fred Graham, the physiotherapist at the Camp, and they were married in 1947. They moved to Horsham where Fred was Senior Physiotherapist at the Horsham Base Hospital. Dorothy is survived by her son Charles, daughter Patricia and granddaughter Emily.

Dorothy Marion De Chair Graham (Johnson, 1941) in her Red Cross uniform c 1945.

Mary attended Queen’s from 1937 until 1948. She was Co-School Captain with Margaret Rotheram (Wilson, 1947) in 1947, and stayed on for 1948 to complete a second year of Matriculation, becoming sole School Captain in that year. She remembered riding her bicycle to the Boys’ School to study Physics and Chemistry with Dr. Wight. Deciding Humanities were for her, she studied Arts at the University of Melbourne, staying in residence at Janet Clarke Hall and achieving a Master’s Degree in 1952.

Mary De Chair Steele (Johnson, 1948) as School Tennis Champion in 1947.

Awarded a Commonwealth Scholarship in 1957, Mary studied for a Certificate of Education at London University, and also worked at Australia House. Returning to Australia following the death of her father, still the Bishop of Ballarat right up until his death in 1960, Mary gained a position as Lecturer in English at the soon to be opened Monash University. She met her husband Bruce at Monash in 1962. Mary then spent time as a reviewer of children’s books for the newly established newspaper, The Australian, and


BOOMAL ACK A | 25

wrote her own books for children including Arkwright, the Giant Anteater, which won the Children’s Book of the Year in 1986. In 2003, she won the Environment Award for Children’s Literature with Blotsville. Mary’s autobiographical sketch, Beside the Lake: A Ballarat Childhood which recorded her life in Ballarat during the war, was published in 2000. As the daughter of the Bishop of Ballarat, she was keen to show how, with her two sisters, she tried to live a ‘normal’ life amid the general expectation of the clerical family. The School’s Development Office undertook to promote and market the book. Some readers will recall the afternoon tea at The Boathouse when Mary was the guest speaker. Mary is survived by her husband Bruce, her son Sam and daughter Susanna, and grandchildren Tom, Bill, Ben and Josie. We received notification from Elizabeth Donovan (Jenkin, 1978) that her parents Isabel Pratt, (Queen’s, 1948) and Allan Jenkin (1949) have sadly passed away. Our sympathies are extended to Elizabeth, their other daughter Helen (1975) and their families. Karla Jordan (Dwyer, 1986) passed away in August 2019. She was the loved and loving wife of Scott and much loved Mum of Ella (current Year 11) and Lily (current Year 9). The Ballarat Grammar community continues to extend deepest sympathy to Scott, Ella, Lily, Karla’s brother Brett (1986), Karla’s parents and all close family members and friends.

Philip Willoughby Messenger OAM (1950) passed away in late May, aged 87. Committed Prefect, cricketer (colours), athlete (colours), footballer and rower, Philip graduated as a pharmacist in 1954 and subsequently purchased one of Victoria’s prominent regional pharmacies, Victor Say & Co, Benalla, established in 1873. Philip was widely respected by his peers, a long serving director and Chairman of the AMCAL group.

Prefects and Probationers, Boys’ School, 1950, Philip Messenger is pictured in the front row, second from the right. Back row/ R.J.Read, R.H. Symons, G.M. Oscar, G.R. Tunbridge, R.N. Boustead, G.A.Oddie, G.A..Baker.

As Captain of the Victorian Chemists’ Golf Club he was a popular figure around Australia. His service to the Benalla community was unlimited, as pharmacist, Councillor, Mayor, member of the Water Board, trustee of the Benalla Art Gallery and Benalla Hospital. In every activity he was fully supported by his loving wife Pauline, a leading Benalla citizen in her own right. His children Christine, Andrew and Mark and grandchildren are left with fond memories of a gentleman of integrity, achievement and quiet but effective character. Helen Crossley Middleton (Queen’s commencement 1937) passed away in December 2019. Helen was the second daughter of Frank Middleton, who was School Captain of Ballarat Grammar in 1918. Following the family move to Geelong in the 1940s, Helen and her sister Anne (Queen’s commencement 1934) attended The Hermitage. They joined much-loved Queen’s Headmistress Miss Krome there. Helen trained as a nurse, met and married Graeme Brodie, a Scottish Tea Planter in India. It was there that their daughter and two sons were born. On eventual return to Australia the family lived in Geelong then retired to Pt. Lonsdale.

Helen died after a very short illness and is greatly missed by her sister Anne, children and grandchildren and her many friends, even from her days at Queen’s. Mr Bill Muller, past member of staff, passed away in May 2020. Bill came to the School in 1976 from The Southport School in Queensland. He left at the end of 1979 to take up his appointment as the Deputy Headmaster of Townsville Grammar School. During his time at the School, Mr Muller made a very significant contribution as Housemaster of Wigan House, as the Senior History Master, as a sportsman of great talent and as a Schoolmaster in the finest tradition. Our sincere sympathy is extended to Bill’s wife, Julie, and to his sons, Jonathan and Liam. John Read (1956) sadly passed away in March, 2020. John was the father of Rebecca (1988) and Sophie (School Captain in 1991) and brother of Rod (1951) and Richard (1953, deceased). John spent only a couple of years at Ballarat Grammar and then finished his education in Geelong. After some experience gained in NSW he returned home and farmed at Beaufort until retirement some years ago. Our condolences to John’s wife Christine and the Read family and friends. George William Alexander Thomson passed away in February of this year. George was a member of the School Council (now Board of Directors) from 1979 to at least 1985. He and his late wife, Emmy, gave wonderful support to their four children, Alison (1981), Andrew (1983), Stuart (1986) and Julianna (1988) and to the School. Emmy was a dedicated member of the Auxiliary during this time. George was a much loved and admired family man. He was well-respected and shared his great vigour for life with all who surrounded him. There was always laughter and great stories shared in his presence and he inspired many with his wise words and values of resilience and persistence. He was a highly regarded businessman in Ballarat, managing Selkirk Bricks for many years.


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Jessica West (Shearer, 2000) was tragically killed in a car collision on 29 December 2019. Her five-year-old son, Deighton, died in the same collision. Jess was born in Traralgon, educated at Avoca Primary School, Highview Christian College in Maryborough and completed her secondary schooling at Grammar in 2000. Jess then went on to Latrobe University in Bendigo and became a successful and highly competent Primary School teacher, the last ten years of which

were at Strathfieldsaye Primary School where she was held in great esteem. She leaves her husband, Anthony, and elder son, Oakley. The School and members of Cuthbert House send their sympathy to her parents, Ken and Christine Shearer, Jess’ sister Madeline (2002), Anthony and Oakley, their extended family and friends, and Jess’ close-knit group of girlfriends from Grammar days. Jess West (Shearer, 2000)

Jess West (Shearer, 2000) and some of her close friends at School.

Norma Grace Whittenbury (1939) passed away peacefully in February, aged 94. A Learmonth resident throughout her life, Norma was a great contributor to All Saint’s Anglican Church; she was a fine Sunday School teacher and youth leader. She and her late sister, Joy, were excellent farmers. Fran Starbuck (Lawrence, 1962) recalls that she met her English husband in the Whittenbury cowshed! Norma and Joy valued their time as students at Queen’s CEGGS enormously, always maintaining their interest and loyalty, and attending reunions. She is fondly remembered by her relatives and by the Bridgewater, Charles and Wilson families. Richard Wood (1970) passed away in October 2019. Sincere sympathy is expressed to Adele Myers (Wood, 2001) and her sister, Rebecca Grigg (Wood, 1999) and extended family during this time of sadness. Marilyn Burgess has kindly shared some more information with us of her husband, the Rev Philip Burgess (1949) who passed away on

April 24, 2019. After graduating from Ballarat Grammar, Philip studied Theology at St John’s Theological College, Canberra and in 1953 graduated with his Theological degree. Philip was made Deacon in 1954 and Priest in 1955. His first parish was All Saints’ Anglican Church in Willaura, followed by Tallangatta; Archdeacon of Wangaratta; St Luke’s, Torquay; St John’s, Mansfield; (and Chaplain of Timbertop School, Geelong Grammar - and to Prince Charles!); St John’s Church, Wangaratta; St Stephen’s, Belmont; St Peter’s, Ballarat; Rural Dean, Ballarat; Member of Ballarat Grammar School Council; Associate Priest, Christ Church Brunswick; and in his retirement to Ocean Grove he continued his ministry preaching monthly at St Peter’s, Ocean Grove.

thoughtful retreats. Philip was also well known for his masterful oil paintings in which he excelled in what free time he had; his great passion for sailing and snow skiing was another outlet from his busy schedule and church duties. He was farewelled at a Requiem Mass at St Peter’s Anglican Church, Ocean Grove which was attended by family, friends, fellow parishioners, four Bishops, and multiple clergy. Philip is survived by his wife, Marilyn.

Philip was known for his “wide experience and sound common sense”, (Ballarat Chronicle) and his in-depth understanding of the Gospel and its presentation in his sermons and especially his discussion groups and Rev Philip Burgess


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A happy photo, taken at the Board Dinner in December 2019: Back row (standing)/ The Hon. Rob Knowles AO, Priscilla Herington, The Very Reverend Chris Chataway, Michael Unwin, Beris Ford, Sarah Lia, Paul Esmonde, Adam Heath, Dr Shantini Deutscher, Stephen Higgs OAM, Graham Hislop, Kirsty Hislop, Colin McIntosh, Kath Milne. Front row: Lindsay Evans, Jeanette Evans, Peter Macdonald, Dr John Williams.

S TA F F A N D B O A R D C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S , FAREWELLS AND THANKS We were able to celebrate and thank many of those who have contributed to the life of the School at the Board Dinner in December 2019: + T he Hon. Mr Rob Knowles AO was awarded Life Governorship of Ballarat Grammar, recognising 16 years of outstanding service to the Board, including eight years as Chair. + M r Stephen Higgs OAM, Ballarat Grammar Headmaster from 1995 to 2015, was congratulated on his award of an Order of Australia Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2019. + R etiring Ballarat Grammar Board members The Very Reverend Chris Chataway, Mrs Sarah Lia and Mr Michael Unwin, + M r Colin McIntosh, retiring Ballarat Grammar School Educational Services Board Chair (21 years on the Board with 17 years as Chair), + M r Lindsay Evans, retiring Ballarat Grammar Foundation Board President (38 years on the Board with 27 years as President), + R etiring Staff members: Mr John Daniel, Mrs Beris Ford, Mrs Kath Milne, Mr Richard Carroll, Mrs Bev Garnham and departing staff members Mr Paul Esmonde, Ms Lyn Zarifis, Mr Graham Hislop, Mrs Kirsty Hislop, Mr Ryan Austin-Eames, Louise Dennis, Monique Ford, Mr Conor Nunn, Gail Oliver, Shobana Sebastian, and Luna Shen, + C ontinuing staff members were recognised: Priscilla Herington received her 40 year Service Pin and Mrs Sandra Warwick received her 25 year Service Pin.


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OLD GRAMMARIAN AND C O M M U N I T Y N E W S (C ON T ) STAFF RETIREMENTS John “Jack” Daniel – 38 years

‘JD’ was known for many things: amongst them, being a wonderful and dedicated Physics, Chemistry, Science and Mathematics teacher, as a wonderful and relaxed MC for many Grammar events, an accomplished musician, and …. enjoying a sausage roll every day at recess. Rob Gray has calculated that this equals 6840 sausage rolls over the years! JD joined the staff in 1982. He was an enthusiastic Head of House for Manifold for 18 years between 1988 and 2006, and his tute/mentor groups from that House will remember some great times with JD as their tutor. And many Wigan boys will remember JD as an MoD. He was a “frequent flyer” on Outdoor Education camps and he involved himself fully in the great Year 10 Expeditions of the late 1980s. In 1996 the School joined the Round Square organisation, and following a Round Square International Service project he attended with two of our students in Thailand, in December, 1997, where volunteers built a fresh water pipeline for a hill village, JD became the leader of the first all-Australian Thai Water Projects. He led nine wonderfully successful projects and many of our students and members of staff benefited from the opportunities to serve in such a practical manner. In 2005, John was presented with the King Constantine Medal for Exceptional Service to Round Square. A generous, gentle, compassionate and caring man, always ready to help students and staff alike, John is greatly missed around the School. John, and his wonderfully supportive wife, Anne, will now be able to spend more time with their children, Elizabeth (1998) and Paul (2000), and their grandchildren. John Daniel’s Manifold House Form 2 Tutorial Group 1982 (and peer year 1986): Rear - Helen Rowe, Mr Daniel, Tracey Charlton, Christie Gulbis, Helen Vahl Meyer. Front Row: Melissa Pirie, Karla Dwyer, Jane McKenzie, Robyn McKinnon

Beris Ford - 28 years

Beris has been a dedicated staff member at Grammar for 28 years, and in that time has involved herself in the School in an exceptional manner. She has developed strong relationships with parents and other staff over the years and has supported an enormous number of changes. When Year 7 students (and staff!) commenced at the beginning of a new year, they were always introduced to Beris as the ‘go-to’ person when all else fails. Beris spent many years as a much-loved MoD in Woodbridge House and still regularly attends reunions to catch up with the large number of girls that she supported over the years. Beris has been the stalwart of the Kinsman, taking calls, photocopying, removing nail polish, providing stationery, locating lost property, removing jewellery, finding students, finding uniform, finding missing or moved classes, staff and boarders’ mail…. Thank you! We wish Beris every well-earned enjoyment in her retirement.

Beris Ford lighting the open fire in the Staff Centre for the first time.


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Richard Carroll – 25 years

Richard will be remembered by students, staff and parents for his energy, intellect and generosity. The fresh-faced 34-year-old was one of the youngest staff members at Grammar when he joined the School mid-1995 from Braemar College. In 1998, Richard and Mandy, with their children, Meghan (2006), Rory (2009) and Austin (2011), moved into Woodbridge as resident Co-Heads of House. During their time, 62 girls called Woodbridge home; quite a contrast to the 50 girls today who would consider Woodbridge to be full! Richard was a passionate Head of English for 11 years and in 2005, was appointed as Director of Studies, managing curriculum, teaching and learning across the Senior School. The enthusiasm in his teaching of English and Literature was evident; students loved his teaching style and Richard was able to instil a confidence and worldview that set them up for life beyond school. Richard contributed much to student wellbeing at Grammar, as House Tutor with several different Houses, and through Grammar’s sporting program. The boys of Wigan House will remember Richard inspiring them. Richard’s cultural interests saw him undertake several Grammar “Classics” school trips to Europe, and to produce and manage Middle School Productions for five years, including taking the production on the road to local communities and regional centres. As long-serving Vice President of the Grammar Staff Association, Richard promoted collegiality. We toast Richard as a wonderful colleague and friend and for his significant accomplishments and contributions. Bev Garnham – 20 years

Bev Garnham, mother of Julie Harmer (Garnham,1993), has been a much-loved fixture in the Canteen and the Pavilion shop for 38 years, and 20 years as Canteen Manager. She has managed other staff and a multitude of parent volunteers over the years, ensuring a steady supply of sausage rolls for JD, the Canteen’s much loved chicken burgers and a great range of food for students and staff. Bev was renowned for her Rum Balls or Golf Balls (minus the rum). She’d get up early in the mornings to bake a big enough supply for the eager purchasers of these treats! We thank Bev for her years of service to the School and wish her well in her retirement. Kath Milne – 12 years

Kath retired after 12 wonderful years of teaching at Ballarat Grammar and an extensive teaching career overall. She was a highly motivated, caring and engaging teacher in the Year 9 Program. Kath was a proud Smith House Tutor and her guidance and nurturing of her mentor groups was exceptional. Her influence on the continuing growth and development of the Year 9 Program was tremendous and her capacity for getting the best out of all students was excellent. Kath was involved as an integral part of the Staff Association in her role as Almoner and was always prepared to go above and beyond to ensure that staff members were looked after during times of need as well in good times. Kath will be greatly missed.


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OLD GRAMMARIAN AND COMMUNITY N E W S (C ON T)

FINDING QUEEN’S GIRLS Jennifer James, daughter of Audrey Hull (Batten, Queen’s 1939), has kindly sent us Audrey’s story. Audrey is now 96, still in good health and enjoying some of her favourite hobbies – gardening, baking bread, painting and various craft activities. Every week she drives to visit her husband who is in an aged care home and also does her own shopping and domestic duties. She also helps her other daughter with her business of making swings and hammocks.

CONGRATULATIONS Congratulations to Old Grammarian Dr Susan Mayes (1983) who was recognised with a 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honour, a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), for significant service to physiotherapy, particularly to professional ballet dancers. While at Grammar, Susan studied ballet with

I started school aged six, in 1929 – Miss Radcliff was the Mistress, and I think Miss Hodson or Miss Rigg was then Headmistress at Queen’s.

Dr Susan Mayes treating dancers at the Australian Ballet.

Dr Susan Mayes as House Captain of Manifold in 1983.

Carole Oliver OAM, whose studio was located around the corner from the School at the time. Her favourite subject was Biology with her “wonderful and inspiring” teacher Nola Squire. After leaving school, Susan trained in ballet full time and through injury discovered physiotherapy. After studying physiotheraphy at LaTrobe, she worked at the Queen Elizabeth rehabilitation unit and then on to Newington Physiotherapy Clinic, where the partners trained her in sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapy, for which Susan is still very grateful.

Dr Mayes is an Adjunct Research Fellow at La Trobe University’s School of Allied Health and has held the position of Principal Physiotherapist and Medical Team Manager for The Australian Ballet since 1997. She is recognised as an international leader in the field of physiotherapy – particularly in areas of rehabilitation, injury management and injury prevention – and is a renowned expert in dance health. Do you remember James Valentine (1979)? ABC Radio Sydney’s Afternoons with James Valentine has been named as one of the world’s best talk programs and picked up a Bronze Award for “Best Two-Way Telephone Talk/Interview Show” in the Morning, Drive/Afternoon category. The award was presented by the prestigious New York International Radio Awards. Congratulations James! This year, Rebecca O'Dwyer (1988) will complete 20 years of corporate communications/copy writing and is now heading back to school to study Horticulture! Congratulations on your career change! Best wishes to Gail Sjogren, Senior Mistress 1980 to 1997, who celebrated her 80th birthday in June. A very significant milestone!

In the Senior School I remember the bus trips to the Boys’ School (in Wendouree) for Chapel services on Anzac and Armistice Days, and visits from other girls’ schools (Clarendon and High School) for sports’ competitions – hockey, tennis and basketball. Some of us were allowed to study Chemistry and Science subjects at the Boys’ Grammar School – these subjects were not offered at Queen’s. Sports Day was always a big day – competing against the three Houses: Manifold with golden belts and flags, Queen’s with crimson and Cuthbert with blue. I remember a few of the antics we got up to after school, like exploring the parts of the grounds that were ‘out of bounds’, but as there are no pupils living in Manifold or Cuthbert now, no one would understand how exciting this was! Teachers I remember from my school days are Miss Radcliff (Kindergarten), Miss Mona Montgomery (English), Miss Wright (Sport) and Miss Abrams (Latin). After matriculating in 1939, just as war was declared in England, I became a student teacher. I then went to Teachers’ College in Melbourne for another two years (1944). I successfully applied for a kindergarten teacher job at Queen’s, under Miss Woodbridge as Headmistress, in about 1947. When I was teaching the kindergarten class my duties included a weekend ‘living in’ with the boarders in Manifold House and walking the ‘crocodile’ to church on Sunday mornings. In 1973 we left Ballarat and built a motel (Toddy’s Cabins) in Alice Springs, where we lived for 30 years before retiring in Queensland in 2002.


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THE MANIFOLD CIRCLE AN

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THE GIFT OF GIVING When you let us know that you will be making a bequest to Ballarat Grammar, you join friends and supporters of the School in The Manifold Circle. As a member, you will receive a beautiful Manifold Circle pin, signifying membership and acknowledging your support. You will also receive invitations to special events and activities throughout the year. A bequest can support an area you are passionate about, such as the Sciences, the Arts, Sport, or it can be for general use by the School if you would prefer not to specify. A bequest allows you to contribute to our school without impacting your lifestyle

today, and it can be modified at any time in response to any changes in your circumstances. Importantly, if we are aware of your bequest, we can express our gratitude to you personally. For further information, please contact: Travis Polkinghorne Phone: 03 5338 0884 Email: travis.polkinghorne@bgs.vic.edu.au


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ROWING C E L E B R AT I O N

Charlotte Robson (Year 11), Lyndal Geddes (Walker, 1991), Vanessa King (1991), Grammar Rowing Co-ordinator Kylie Lanyon (1991), cox - Caitlin Grieve (2018)

JOHN ROSS-PERRIER WAT E R S P O R T S CENTRE MEZZANINE LAUNCH

Headmaster Adam Heath, Jill Ross-Perrier, Board Chair Dr Shantini Deutscher.

Former and current Grammar rowers, rowing parents, coaches, staff and special guests joined together for a celebration of Grammar Rowing to officially open the John Ross-Perrier Watersports Centre Mezzanine in February. Old Grammarians were invited to ‘jump back in the boat’ during the day with many taking up the opportunity – they’ve still got it!


BOOMAL ACK A | 33

Kim Conheady, Sandra Coutts, Karin Macdonald, Dr Vanessa King (1991), Head of Sport Dean Rossato, Bill Gribble (1971), David Wright (1985)

Lyndal Geddes (Walker, 1991)

Tom Hawker (1980), Geoff Rix (1985), Kim Hawker

Stuart Parry (1990) stroke of the 1990 Boys First IV, Campbell Gullock, Sam Ballantyne and Tom Hunt from the Boys First IV 2012

Kammy Hunt, Sarah Myers (Daunt, 1994) Sarah Chibnall (1994)

Director of Rowing Sam Pullin (1996), Lisa Cressy, Dr Alex Meakin, Dr Hock Tan, Dr David Deutscher, Vikings Committee Treasurer Leigh Maxted

Vikings Committee President Gary Trotter


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FIVE YEAR REUNION The members of the 2014 Peer Year gathered at the Lake View on a Sunday afternoon in November last year to catch up and reminisce about their days at Ballarat Grammar. The event was well-attended with many OGs catching up with one another and some teaching staff during a very relaxed Sunday afternoon gathering.

Jane Astbury, Jack Lawrence, Sam Pullin, Lewis Orr, Nellie Whiteside

Jack Philip, Steph McMullin, Georgie Damm

Liam Burke, Miguel Arrieta, Connor McLean, Ben Davis, Hugh Ellett, Sam Kozaris

Becky Prouse, Harriet Fitzpatrick, Sarah Walker, Rachel Hickey

Chris Shaw, Ollie Corcoran, Tom Bradley, Madison Nicholls, Edwina Williams

Joshua Foord and Marcus Mullins

Bec Kennedy, Emma Taylor, Bethany Simpson, Liam Burke

Adam Heath, James Cassells, Daniel Cassells


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Miranda Fenton, Holly Dobbyn, Ellen O’Donohue, Amy Ahearn, Kate Shorney

Sally Werner, Polly Guthrie,

Campbell Johnstone, Jack Chatham,

Eleanor Borgelt, Nina Cowie

Keitha Theodore, Jack Philip

Nina Cowie, Becky Prouse, Jill Coote and Rachel Hickey

Catherine Smith, Stephanie Cartledge, Laura Weigall

Will Mills, Will Greig, Lewis Orr, Kieran Luke, Sam McKenzie, Edwina Williams, Ollie Corcoran, Alice Yates, Madison Nicholls

Jordan Payne and Sam Olsson

Hamish Bennett, Ryan Green (in front)

Jane Astbury, Liz Terry, Kristy Ward, Beris Ford, Nicola Rintoule


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50+ LUNCHEON The second annual 50+ Luncheon was held in the Memorial Dining Hall on Friday, 13 December 2019. It was great to see over 130 Old Grammarians and Old Queen’s girls present. Many happy memories were shared and the 1969 Peer Year Members were welcomed to the 50+ cohort. Members enjoyed the day, starting with a Service in the Chapel of St Mark, followed by welcome drinks and canapes served in the Olston Quadrangle and a delicious lunch in the Memorial Dining Hall. It was certainly a very happy occasion and we look forward to inducting the 1970 peer year to 50+ later in the year.

Jenny Reynolds (Newsome, 1961), Fred Blake, Janet Coleman (Elliott, 1961), Beverley McRae (Pilgrim, 1960)

Mary Wright (Wettenhall, 1960) and

Heather Fryar (Scott 1958) and

Ian Ellis (1966), Tom Devine (1968), Malcolm Matthews (1966),

Janet Goldsmith (Wettenhall, 1961)

Dorothy Kemp (Gordon 1962)

Rick Gower (1965)

Roma Tully (Foster 1950) and Jim McKay (1954) and Arthur Thomas (1960)

John Runnalls (1967) and John Taylor (1967)

Keryn Crebbin

Patricia Clark (Walter, 1961), Kay Blake (Tucker, 1963), Lynette Lawson (Williams 1969), Nan and Bill Martin (1955)

Jenny Pern (Crawford, 1963), Robert Clark


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Lois Bishop (Jones, 1965), Christina Florence-Clark (1968), Felicity Crowley (Hewitt, 1965)

Ann Fawell and Janet Dale (Scott, 1950)

Jacqueline (Paine 1959) and Patrick Grant, Susan (Paine, 1964) David Rowan (1966) and Tim Latrobe (1963)

and Richard Mason

Dr Shantini Deutscher (Board Chair) and

Winston Newsome (1959) and

Dorothy Linsdell (Wilson,

Beverley McRae (Pilgrim, 1960)

Grant Hinton (1958)

1949) and Lloyd Linsdell

Enid and Geoffrey Oscar (1950)

Jim Hinton (1951) and Rodney Read (1951)

Joy Whitla (Edgar,1969), Carol Herd (Bone, 1969), Elizabeth Heinz (1968),

Dawn Macdonald (Dehnert, 1956) and

Genevieve Pergl (Goldie, 1969), Pam Coghlan (Hall, 1968)

Jenny Scott-Wickham (White, 1956)


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


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