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THE GIFT OF A SCHOLARSHIP 18 INSPIRING OLD GRAMMARIAN
CONGRATULATIONS, FAREWELLS AND THANKS
The Grammar community extends heartfelt gratitude to the newly appointed Life Governors, retiring Board members and long serving staff, and those who departed the School in 2021. All were celebrated at the 2021 Board Dinner in December.
LONG-SERVING STAFF FAREWELLS
Glenis Zala – 32 years
Glenis Zala Form 1.
Glenis Zala (Newey, 1976) began her association with the School when she started as a Form 1 student at Queen’s in 1971! Glenis began as the Junior School classroom music teacher in 1990, and since that time she has led our flourishing Junior School music program. She introduced the end of year concert which has grown into the huge Junior School Production it is today. Both Glenis’ sons, Paul (2004) and Tim (2006), attended Grammar and husband, Michael and father, Norm, have also worked at the School. We thank Glenis for her wonderful years of service and many happy memories of music in the Junior School.
Scan the QR code to see a wonderful video created by Mark Warwick, Old Grammarians and past staff to celebrate and congratulate Glenis on her retirement . It includes some vision of Glenis’ enviable collection of every Junior School Production Mug that has ever been produced.
Lisa Baker – 31 years
Lisa Baker with CEEd students in 2013.
Lisa has been a teacher, researcher and learner in the field of early childhood education for over 30 years. Commencing at the Ballarat Grammar Community Kindergarten in 1991 (in what are now the Junior School Prep Rooms) overseeing the design and construction of the Ballarat Grammar Early Learning Centre (in what is now the Junior School Reception building), and then moving to the Centre for Early Education (CEEd) in 2012 as an inaugural and pivotal team member, Lisa has fulfilled the roles of Kindergarten Teacher, Director, Reception Teacher in the Bumblebees and Head of Department – Reception, as well as being a member of many school committees and working groups, such as the Wellbeing Committee, making a huge contribution to Positive Education at the School. Lisa’s connection to Ballarat Grammar goes beyond her role as educator: marrying husband Jamie in the Chapel of St Mark in 1993; her daughters, Georgia (2018) and Emily (2020) both attended Ballarat Grammar from the ELC through to Year 12.
We thank Lisa for her contribution to the Ballarat Grammar community, setting the foundations for our youngest learners over the past three decades. We offer our heartfelt congratulations and very best wishes for the wonderful opportunities that lie beyond the Grammar gates, as mentor, senior associate, and doctoral candidate.
Nancy Wu – 28 years
Nancy has been a forerunner in Chinese Language education in regional Victoria, and we have been lucky to have Nancy with us at Ballarat Grammar for the past 28 years. During this time, Nancy has taught Chinese to students varying in age from Year 6 to Year 12, and for much of it, was the only Chinese teacher in the school.
Nancy has given so much to Ballarat Grammar through her teaching, mentoring and the offering of many different Chinese
cultural experiences. There are many dimensions to Nancy: she comes from an extremely academic family and she herself is one of the great mathematical minds; her son Bob Wang (1998) was a Dux of the School, and she has consistently worn the Krome colours with pride. Nancy is a great educator and extremely passionate about what she does. We were blessed to have her at Grammar for as long as we have. We wish her all the very best in her retirement.
Miriam Kriss – 25 years Year 2 Strings Program teacher, Director of Intermediate Strings, and instrumental teacher, Miriam, has resigned from her role at the School to focus on her private instrumental teaching. Many Junior School students would remember learning violin, viola or cello with Miriam as part of the Year 2 Strings program. The School would like to thank Miriam for her contribution to the Music Department over the last 25 years and wish her all the best for the future.
China Trip 2016, Nancy Wu far right at rear.
Music staff 2018 - Glenis Zala, front row, second from left; Miriam Kriss, front row, fourth from left; Gwen Kennelly, third row, fourth from left.
Donna Stephen, Mark Warwick, Lisa McCracken, former Deputy Head Brad Fry, and Christine Shaw at the 2013 opening of the Centennial Building.
Fiona Latrobe – 24 years Fiona has been a much-respected Mathematics teacher at the School and was also Head of Cuthbert for a significant period of time. Fiona has stepped away from teaching to support her family, however, she will continue to produce educational material for the Mathematics Association of Victoria as well as maintaining her significant contribution to VCAA. We would like to sincerely thank Fiona for her contribution to the School and wish her all the best for her retirement.
Lisa McCracken – 21 years We farewelled Lisa McCracken from our community in May of 2021 after 21 years of service to the School. In the early days, and for the majority of her time at the School, she worked alongside Stephen Higgs as his Personal Assistant up until his retirement in 2015, before assisting Adam Heath with his transition to the School. In 2017, Lisa became the inaugural Boarding and International Program Administrator, coordinating many of the new programs that were developed as our boarding community continued to grow. A friend to many at the School, in so many areas of our community, Lisa will be missed for her engaging and energetic personality.
Christine Shaw – 12 years
We farewelled Chris Shaw in 2021 following her appointment as Deputy Principal of Loreto College Ballarat, in a continuation of her educational leadership. A passionate Old Grammarian, Christine joined the Ballarat Grammar staff in 2009 and has worked tirelessly to ensure that the School has gone from strength to strength. She was appointed as Assistant Head Wellbeing of the Senior School before becoming Deputy Head and Head of Senior School. She established our approach to connecting teaching and learning with wellbeing, as well as leading the development of the School’s renowned Wellbeing and Positive Education programs. These programs continue to benefit our students and have informed the practice of schools locally and abroad. Christine’s selfless leadership and teaching have reflected the values of connecting with colleagues and students. The English and Physical Education Faculties have enjoyed Christine’s collegiality and she has been a much-loved mentor to Woodbridge students. Christine’s dedication and respect for the strong traditions and culture of our School have enriched the lives of all in our community. She will, of course, maintain her strong connections to Ballarat Grammar with her children Ben and Meg as students of the School, and her husband Adam continuing as a valued Commerce teacher and mentor. Christine’s care for all in our community will be remembered and we wish her every happiness in her new role.
OTHER LONG-SERVING STAFF WHO DEPARTED IN 2021
We thank the following for their 10+ years of service to the School.
+ Beck Dagar-Clare – 14 years, most recently as Finance Assistant for BGS
Educational Services
+ Nicola van Berkel – 13 years, most recently as Junior School teacher and
English Coordinator
+ Donna Stephen – 12.5 years, most recently as Academic and Careers Expo
Administrator
+ Gwen Kennelly – 12 years, School
Accompanist
25 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
+ Mark Warwick, Peter O'Dwyer,
Bronislaw Sozanski, and Ian Riethoff.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND THANKS
+ Jason Simmons – for eight years as Staff
Association President, Des Hardy for 43 years of service, and Ross Sullivan for 40 years service.
Board and Committee Farewells + Colin McIntosh – Foundation
Board of Directors
+ Ken Cook – Foundation Board of Directors
+ Kerrie Corcoran – BGS Educational
Services Board
+ John Taylor – Old Grammarians’
Association President
The Right Reverend Garry Weatherill, Bishop of Ballarat At the Board Dinner, Dr Deutscher made special mention of our President, Bishop Garry, who in 2021 celebrated 10 years as our Bishop. Bishop Garry left the hot and dusty plains of Willochra and came to the green and pleasant hills of Ballarat. Since then, we have had the pleasure of his presence with us and have reaped the benefits of his wise and experienced leadership. Thank you, Bishop Garry, for your friendship, counsel and wisdom.
COMPANION OF GRAMMAR
At the dinner, the Board was pleased to announce a new Award, The Companion of Ballarat Grammar. The purpose of this award is to recognise outstanding contributions by staff or former staff for their exemplary service to the School. This new award will balance beautifully with the Life Governorship of Ballarat Grammar, which recognises voluntary contributions to the School. We look forward to celebrating both new Life Governors and Companions at the end-of-year Board dinner later this year.
The Coghlan and McIntosh families celebrate our newest Life Governors Pam and Colin at the Board Dinner. Heath McIntosh (1999) was able to return from Singapore for the special occasion and Matt Coghlan (1996) from New York. Rear: Heath McIntosh (1999), Joel McIntosh (1996), Simon Coghlan (1992) and Matt Coghlan (1996). Front: Irene McIntosh, Colin McIntosh, Pam Coghlan (1968), James Coghlan and Kate Coghlan (2004).
"Our newest Life Governors, Pam Coghlan and Colin McIntosh. Thank you for your service and support over many years".
To be made a Life Governor is the highest award Grammar bestows for significant voluntary service to the School. At the end-of-year Board Dinner in 2021, Board Chair Dr Shantini Deutscher was pleased to announce Pam Coghlan and Colin McIntosh as our newest Life Governors.
Pam Coghlan If there is someone whose family uniquely personifies the rich tapestry that is the heritage of Ballarat Grammar, it is Pam Coghlan. Pam was School Captain of Queen’s in 1968. Her father, Ron Hall, was School Captain of Ballarat CEGS in 1939 and her mother, Mavis Heinz, was School Captain of Queen’s in 1938. Her husband, James, is Chair of the Ed Services Board and their three children all attended Ballarat Grammar, with Simon, her eldest, a Beckworth Trustee.
For over 50 years, Pam has been actively involved with the School in a myriad of ways, working hard in the forefront as well as behind the scenes to strengthen the ties between the old boys’ and girls’ schools. She was President of the OGA in the late 80s, and wrote the Foreword to “Mainly about Girls, a History of Queen’s”. She was President of the Auxiliary in 2003 and has been a Director on the Foundation Board since 2009, and more recently as Junior VP. Because of her unique background, she has provided the Development Office and Archives with valuable insights that have helped us knit a stronger community. Pam’s long history of service and commitment to the School is honoured and recognised with this Governorship. We thank you, Pam, your husband, James, and your family for your partnership and unwavering support.
Colin McIntosh The School owes a debt of gratitude to Colin. A country lad from the Western District, he became a bank manager at the National Australia Bank. In that role, Colin was able to support the School with access to some much-needed finance in the 1990s, which eventually allowed the School to turn its prospects around.
Colin has been on the BGS Ed Services Board for 21 years and has led it as Chair successfully for 17 years. His astute judgement and wise counsel has been invaluable as a co-opted member of the Finance Committee of our School Board. Colin’s experience in real estate has been put to good use for the School as he and Lindsay Evans worked together to purchase key assets for the School such as City Cite and Mount Rowan.
Colin has been a Director on the Foundation Board since 2003, stepping down earlier this year. He has served on their Finance Committee and Fees Trust Committee as well as their Property Committee. Colin’s wife, Irene, has also been actively involved in serving the School. Their two children, Heath (1999) and Joel (1996), attended the School.
Colin is a legend in the way he has steadily supported the School through thick and thin, and we thank him and Irene for their faithful partnership of service over many years.
GIFTS TO GRAMMAR AND STORIES FROM THE ARCHIVES
Queen’s Church of England Girls’ Grammar School Grade 4 in 1949 - peer year 1958. From left: Vivienne Gleeson, next to Mary Davidson (now Rasmussen) (1953), Jill Mayo (now Webber) 1957 next to Marilyn Tulloch (now Rix, 1955), Bronwyn, Rae Strickland (now Borrack, 1958), Judith Lancashire (now Grant, 1957), Fiona Davidson on Mary’s right, Marilyn Gray and Anne James behind those, Joan Shiel behind Cynthia Bowman, Pam Cornell, Naomi Robertson behind Pam, Susan Taylor (now Patterson) on the ground.
Celebrating wonderful school memories
The Archivists, Nola and Ross Squire, thank the Old Grammarians, friends and interested community members who have contributed items and stories to the School’s historical collection. Such thoughtful and generous contributions are in addition to the considerable quantity of day-to-day material generated by the School each year, e.g. publications, photographs, programs, newspaper articles etc. which are routinely added to the collection.
Crest of the Boys’ Church of England Grammar School wall hanging.
Susan Patterson (Taylor, 1957) delivered some newspaper cuttings and photographs, including the one opposite.
Clinton Breeze has given the splendid wall hanging of the Crest of the Boys’ Church of England Grammar School (pictured above), a school cap and some School publications that had belonged to his late father, Derek Ian Breeze (1940). Derek entered the School as a boarder from Meringur on 8 February 1938, Roll Number 945. He was the coxswain of the School’s Fourth crew in 1940 and he also coxed the winning crew in the House Regatta Scratch Fours that year. Clearly, those three years Derek spent as a student at Ballarat Grammar were of great importance. His commissioning of this substantial wall hanging through a Sydney company and its manufacture in Pakistan demonstrated his attachment to the School and gratitude for all it taught him.
This lovely photo (on right) taken in December 1961, was sent by June Angus (Batt, 1962) who believes that it was taken outside St Peter’s (or maybe the Cathedral).
Note from Kevin Allen's (1943) Boomalacka Collection.
David Yates (1966), coaching, at the 1988 Olympic Games. The Kevin Allen (1943) Collection, large box of memorabilia comprising books and documents, including a remarkable set of Boomalackas from Issue 1 to Issue 122, was delivered to the School by Kevin’s son, Russ Allen (1969), following the recent death of his father.
In the last Boomalacka featuring Our Olympians, we invited readers to contact us at the School if there were any errors or omissions. We were delighted when Dr David Yates (1966) made contact and advised of an addition:
David Yates (BGS 1961-66) – 1988 Olympics (Seoul, South Korea) – Rowing coach
Further research has revealed that David coached the Men’s Quad Scull and the Men’s Single Scull at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea, crews which placed fifth and fourth respectively.
He has given long and distinguished service to the sport including as Chairman of Selectors for Olympic Games and World Championships teams and crews from 1996 to 2005. He was inducted into the Victorian Rowing Hall of Fame in 2010. As a student in 1966, David stroked the seconds crew to a 10-length victory.
He was also a Probationer and a member of the following sporting teams: First XVIII, Senior Cross Country and Athletics. David now resides in Geelong and is a vigneron in Waurn Ponds.
EXTRACTS FROM A LETTER RECEIVED BY THE ARCHIVISTS FROM JILL WEBBER (MAYO, 1957) WRITTEN ON 29 JANUARY, 2022. JILL KINDLY AGREED TO HAVE SOME OF HER THOUGHTS SHARED WITH BOOMALACKA READERS
I love receiving my copy of Boomalacka in the mail. I re-read it often. It brings up so many happy memories. After attending Winton, a small private school near the Lake and Macarthur Street, I went to Queen’s, along with a few others from there. It was probably Grade 2. I was fortunate to live in Colpin Avenue and Miss Smith, an infant teacher at Queen’s, also lived in my street. She collected me, and a few others, along the way on the tram.
I remember the special feeling in Matric when the 10 of us had our own classroom, with an open fire which Mr Coe (?) always lit for us and kept the wood supply going. Every lunch time we “day girls” sat on the seats around the courtyard or “Quad” to eat our lunch – weather permitting, of course. In summer we’d pull our tunics up and slather our legs with water in an attempt to get a suntan. It usually ended up as sunburn.
I hope the old oak tree is still there. Our French teacher, Miss Hancock, liked to take us out there, join hands in a circle, and sing Sur le Pont D’Avignon as we danced around the huge, shady tree.
Whilst mingling with the Grammar boys was forbidden (except for the dances), Queen’s syllabus included Biology, but not Chemistry or Physics. As a result, the timetable was adjusted so there was time for any students, so wishing, to ride their bikes at lunchtime from one school to another. We had two Asian boys who did this and my friend Anne Lythe (1957) also. In her Matric year, she had a serious bike accident in Drummond Street and had a long time off school. However, she still managed Honours in Matric final exams. She became a doctor, lived in Melton but, of course, is now retired. We still keep in touch. Another Queen’s girl, Carol Piel (Smith), a boarder, has reconnected as we live near each other and for about 15 years have been involved in the AIBL Study concerning Dementia. We see other regularly.
In Ballarat, I lived just the other side of the railway line from Boys’ Grammar. My brother Graeme (Graeme Mayo, 1959), now in Canberra, could walk to school while I had to catch the tram. I remember (staff members) Mr Dart, Miss Will (Kit Williamson), Bobby Bath, and the many students who came to our house to play with my brother. Stan Spittle (1959) was Graeme’s best friend. John Miller (1959 - Boomalacka informed me he became Board Chair) came to my brother’s birthday party one year. Things got rather enthusiastic playing rough games, and John accidentally hit the wall in our front hall and slightly cracked it! Also, does anyone have the photo of a group of us, in school uniforms, around Fairyland? Somebody showed it to me years ago. [Ed. Unfortunately, the photo on the previous page is not the one!) "Every lunch time we 'day girls' sat on the seats around the courtyard or “Quad” to eat our lunch – weather permitting, of course. In summer we’d pull our tunics up and slather our legs with water in an attempt to get a suntan. It usually ended up as sunburn."
Wendy Barratt (Greenbank, 1983) recently sent this photo from the family collection, because it includes her grandfather, Les Greenbank, who attended the Boy’s School. Wendy wrote:
The Archivists have confirmed that Leslie John Greenbank, born 1902, entered the School as a boarder on June 5, 1916, and left at Christmas of the same year, 1916, and that the photo was used on a Ballarat Grammar Christmas Card. We have one copy of the card in the historical collection, not in very good condition! We did not have the names of any of the boys in the photo. Thanks to Wendy, we now have the date, previously uncertain, and one name!
This photo (left) from the Collection shows how the School looked back in 1916 when Les was a student! We were able to send a scan of it to Wendy. How things have changed!
PREFECTS 1956 - Rear: Margaret Goulden, Rosemary Gale, Jill Mayo, Estelle Flower, Joan Robertson, Anne LytheFront: Josephine Alison, Fiona Davidson (School Captain), Miss Woodbridge, Susan Taylor, Pam Corneli.
A TREE FROM QUEEN’S
For several years, the Year 12 Leavers of the School have planted a tree in the grounds on their final day of classes.
The 2021 cohort was lucky enough to have a tree to plant that has an extraordinary link to Queen’s.
In the front gardens of 1200 Mair Street (formerly the Girls’ School, now Australian Catholic University’s Aquinas Campus), there stands a variegated Silver Elm (Ulmus minor ‘Variegata’), which is understood to be more than 100 years of age and listed on the National Trust Significant Tree Register.
Some years ago, and after 15 years of effort, Mr Fred Meeker, a Ballarat local with a significant interest in trees (particularly Elms), successfully propagated, by grafting, several healthy specimens from the original Elm. The trees have been nurtured and cared for by the Mt. William Tree Farm during Fred’s later years, and since his passing in 2019.
ACU was pleased to gift one of the trees to our School, in order that we may have another piece of Queen’s history in Forest Street. The tree was planted in the front garden of Larritt House (facing Forest Street). We thank ACU for this very kind donation and acknowledge Fred for his hard work to propagate this wonderful tree.
The original variegated Silver Elm where it still stands in the grounds of the former Queen's C.E.G.G.S. (now Ballarat campus, Australian Catholic University).
The Macdonald family, which includes seven Old Grammarians and one current student, sharing the momentous occasion.
OLD GRAMMARIAN AND COMMUNITY NEWS & CONGRATULATIONS
AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS
We were delighted to hear that a number of members of our Ballarat Grammar community were recognised in the Australia Day Honours announced on 26th January, and congratulate them on this significant achievement.
David Thomas (1955) - AM - For significant service to the arts, mainly through the museums and gallery sector. Fortunately, David was able to enjoy this recognition before his death in February.
Lucy Stephan (2009) - OAM - For service to sport as a gold medallist at the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020.
Professor Elsdon Storey (Supporter of Ballarat Grammar) – AM - For significant service to medicine in the field of neurology and professional associations. Elsdon is sonin-law of Perc Rodda (dec.) who was School Accountant from 1981 to 1986. Dr Lynne Kelly (Past staff) - AM - For significant service to science education as a writer and researcher.
CONGRATULATIONS
Dawn Macdonald (Dehnert, 1955) was presented with a Life Membership of The Barwon Heads Golf Club at January's historic Ordinary General Meeting. Dawn is only the 14th person honoured since the Club was founded in 1907 and the first since 2000. This Life membership is a remarkable acknowledgement. Aside from her splendid golfing career, her contribution sets her apart. Dawn has given countless hours to the Club, as women’s captain, as a member on the main committee for an extraordinary 15 years, on the membership and course and match committees, playing a pivotal role in the course redevelopment with her input and experience.
We congratulate these Old Grammarians and Grammar community members on these significant achievements.
It has been a big year for Old Grammarian Warren Ellis (1982). Warren released a book late last year, titled “Nina Simone's Gum: A Memoir of Things Lost and Found,” a film alongside Nick Cave titled “This Much I Know to Be True”, and also announced an Australian tour with Nick in November this year. We hope that Warren’s trip may allow him to attend the Gala Reunion in October.
In December, Dougal McAllister (2011) was awarded the 2021 Upskill and Invest Young Farmers’ Scholarship. Congratulations! Dougal will use it to pursue further education in business management, leadership, and decision-making, to improve profitability on the family farm.
Well done to both Ella Friend (2021) on her debut with the St Kilda Football Club AFLW earlier this year and Maggie Caris (2020) on her AFLW debut with the Melbourne Demons this season and for signing on as a training partner with the Melbourne Vixens for the 2022 Super Netball season!
Well done to our winners in the prestigious Agricultural Shows Australia (ASA) National Young Judges and Paraders Championships at the Sydney Royal Show in April. Old Grammarian, Sarah Sutton (2016), was awarded the National Champion Beef Cattle Judge, and current Year 10 student Anna Dickson, won the Champion Parader section.
Former Grammar Science teacher, Mrs Lynne Kelly, now Dr Lynne Kelly AM, with students Wayne McCulloch (1990) and Tamara Boyd (1991), in 1989. We congratulate Lynne on her contribution to Science Education, from which many Grammarians benefited. Sarah Sutton (2016) was awarded the National Champion: Beef Cattle Judging.
Exciting news and best wishes for both Sam Breuer (2021) and Josh Rentsch (2021) who have signed with South Australian NFL teams for the 2022 Season.
Congratulations to Hamish Hall (2021) on becoming a Queen's Scout late last year. This is the pinnacle award for the Venturer Section of Scouting: 15–18-year-old youth. Hamish was honoured to have Ballarat Grammar staff and friends attend the ceremony, in addition, to representatives from Gekko Systems, where Hamish completed the first year of his Boilermaker apprenticeship.
Well done to staff member Yvonne Chadderton (current staff member) on being awarded The Australian Society for Classical Studies Latin classics prize.
Old Grammarian and current staff member Tiarna Shillito (2018) won the Bendigo Gift in March, marking a remarkable run of success with her third straight win! Fellow Old Grammarian Grace O'Dwyer (2017) also took third place and competed in the 70m final. Tiarna and Grace were also semi-finalists in the 2022 Stawell Gift.
Sarah Guthrie has written a book titled “Picking up the Pieces....remembering Ford” about her son Ford Guthrie (2016), who sadly died in an accident in 2016 just before commencing his final year as a boarder and House Captain of Wigan. Written as a series of vignettes, the book captures the small and detailed parts of the Guthrie family’s life together on the farm at the foot of the Grampians. This book was Sarah’s path forward to find meaning and gratitude in life again and to honour her son. Sarah’s daughter and graphic designer Pollyanna (2014) illustrated the book and designed the front cover. To purchase the book, you can visit grampiansestate.com.au, or copies are available from The Known World Bookshop in Ballarat. Proceeds from the sale of the book go to the Ford Guthrie Scholarship. Well done to Alex Lia (2012) for being named on the Young Australians in International Affairs list of Young Women to Watch in International Affairs for 2022 to celebrate this year's International Women's Day. Alex is the Executive Officer of the International Division at the AttorneyGeneral's Department, a public international lawyer, and serves as the Co-Chair of the department's Pride Network, providing advice on issues affecting LGBTIQA+ staff. Alex is undertaking a Master of Laws specialising in international law at the Australian National University.
Jack Norman (2012) and his partner, Jessica Dafter, were delighted to welcome the arrival of Austin Banjo (pictured above) in January. Austin is the first grandchild of Scott, and school receptionist and OG, Jill Norman (Coad, 1982).
Picking up the Pieces… Remembering Ford book. Austin Norman
Jessica Neilsen (nee Watts) (1995) was recognised in the BHP Foundation Science and Engineering Teacher Awards 2022. Jessica was selected as the Northern Territory awardee, one of ten Australian science teachers so honoured. She would like to share this award in honour of her teachers Peter Cole, John Daniel, Alan Ford and Nola Squire, who nurtured her enthusiasm for science and life.
Paul Kauffman (1969) supplied the following news about former student and teacher, Bob Northey (1957).
Robert (Bob) Northey, was born in 1939 in Derrinallum, and attended Ballarat Grammar from 1952 to 1957, in which year he was School Captain. He was awarded Sporting Colours in every sport he played. He studied at the University of Melbourne, lived at Trinity College, captained cricket and football and acted in university plays and sang in the choir and played football for Melbourne University Blues. On graduating he taught English and History at Ballarat Grammar from 1963 to 1965 and again in the 1970s. Bob was formerly married to Queen’s girl Wendy (Gray. 1966) who is a forensic psychologist, and sister of Alastair Gray (1965) and Ernie Gray (1968). Their son Benjamin (1988) (who attended Ballarat Grammar Junior School along with his brother, Blaise), is now Principal Conductor in Residence of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
Bob has held several senior positions at schools and universities. His achievements in secondary and university education, sport and music demonstrate that a sound education must focus on the whole of life. Following Mr Dart’s lead, he thinks all students should be encouraged to think for themselves, critically, originally and imaginatively. He believes that Ballarat Grammar has always concentrated on teaching the whole student, rather than specialising in focusing solely on helping students gain high marks in Year 12 examinations. Bob now lives in Melbourne with his partner Robin, and continues to write widely, including two novels.
David Brunton (2010) graduated with the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Agricultural Science / Weed Science from the University of Adelaide. In addition, he was awarded the prestigious - Doctoral Research Medal - for his diligent and dedicated research work. throughout his PhD studies. Well done David on such a wonderful achievement.
David Brunton (2010) at the University of Adelaide graduation ceremony.
DEATHS
Our community mourns the passing of Kevin W.L. Allen, on 19 December 2021, at the grand age of 96 years. Kevin’s long association with the School began when he was enrolled as a day boy in February 1941 and concluded when he retired as Bursar in June 1984, excepting his Army Service (1944 to 1947); this association embraced forty years.
As a student, Kevin was a school leader and a fine all-round sportsman with colours for football, cricket, and rowing. In 1943, he was a School Prefect (Probationer in 1942), Captain of the First XVIII football team and Vice-Captain of the First XI cricket team. After his army service, Kevin began a long and dedicated career in 1948, when he accepted the position of Assistant Secretary to the Ballarat Church of England Boys’ and Girls’ Grammar Schools. Based at the Ballarat Diocesan Office in Dana Street, one of his tasks was to deliver the pay envelopes to the teachers at the Boys’ School and at Queen’s. Kevin rode his push bike from Dana Street to Forest Street, then to Queen’s in Mair Street, and back to Dana Street, whatever the weather. He became Secretary/Bursar for the two Schools in 1952, a position he held until 1962 when he was appointed Bursar to the Boys’ School, continuing as Bursar of the current co-educational School from 1973. Apart from managing the complex financial affairs, his many and varied responsibilities encompassed buildings and book room, meetings, minutes and maintenance, roads, reunions and records, ovals, gardens and grounds, speech nights and fundraising, a seemingly endless and complex list. He was secretary to the School Council and many of its sub-committees, involving countless meetings over the years.
After retiring, Kevin and his wife, Val (dec.), maintained a strong and supportive involvement with the School. Allen House in the Junior School was named in their honour. Their children, Terry (1965), Russell (1969) and Jasman (1972, dec.1976), grandchildren, John (1986) and Jackie (1988), and greatgranddaughter Ele (2018), are all Old Grammarians and great-grandson, Tom, is a current Year 9 student.
Kevin at his office desk in May 1966, making meticulous hand-written entries in one of his many ledgers. Photographer: Kit Williamson. Our community mourns the passing of a most gracious lady, Life Governor Lorraine Bell (Osborne, 1944) on May 1. A student at Queen’s from 1934 until 1944, Lorraine then trained as a nurse. As an active Old Girl and school parent, Lorraine was a member of Queen’s CEGGS School Council from 1962 to 1972 and then of BQAGS School Council from 1973 to 1979: a record of exemplary service, commitment, loyalty and interest over the years.
Readers may recall the article headed Do you Remember? on pages 24 -25 of Boomalacka Issue 120, Summer 2020/2021, a fine contribution from Megan about Lorraine, her mother.
Lorraine completed the Intermediate Certificate in 1943 and the Leaving Certificate in 1944 when her subjects were English, French, History, Geography and Biology. She was in the First Four in 1943 and 1944, the First XI and the First VII in 1944 and received House Colours in 1943. In 1944, Lorraine was Captain of Form 6 and ViceCaptain of Cuthbert House.
Lorraine Bell, Life Governor
Sincere sympathy is extended to Lorraine’s husband, Alex, their children, Megan Rankin (1971), Catherine Zala (1974), Barbara de Blaquiere (1977) and Robert (1987) and to all members of the extended family. David John Chambers (1956) sadly passed away in December last year. David and his brother, William Robert Chambers (1961), both attended Ballarat Grammar from 1951. Their father, William Irvine Chambers, once served on the council of Ballarat Grammar. David and his wife Wilma lived in Papua New Guinea (PNG) for 42 years, before retiring to Queenscliff in 2009. William shared with the School a touching tribute from a close friend of the couple of their time in PNG, mentioning David’s skills in building and competing in shooting. Our condolences to his family, particularly his brother, on David’s passing.
Patricia Ellis (Goldsmith, 1940) passed away at 95 years of age in January. Pat was a student at Queen's from 1936 to 1940. She was the widow of Jack (1940) and mother of Ian (1966), Richard (1970, dec.1974), and Peter (1973). We are thinking of Patricia’s family at this sad time.
Noel Ellis (1949) passed away in March at the age of 90. Noel entered the School in 1946 as a scholarship holder. He was a Probationer and Cadet Corps Corporal, was awarded Athletics Colours (he won a title at the Victorian Championships as a sprinter) and was a member of the First XVIII. As a very young man, he qualified as an accountant. He made a remarkable contribution to our School, including some years as a member of the School Council (now the Board of Directors). Deepest sympathy is extended to Noel’s wife, Gabrielle, and all the family.
Stuart Croft (1964) passed away recently. Stuart was a member of the First XVIII, the Athletics Team, and rowed in the First crew in 1964, receiving Rowing Colours. Our sympathies to his son Dale (1991) and Stuart’s family at this time.
First Crew, 1964, Back row: J.W. Towers (Bow), D.C. Davis (3), S.J. Croft (2), Front row: B.R.J. Campbell (Cox), Mr J.D. Nevett (Coach), R.W. Gillett (Stroke)..
Maree Parish (Rusch, 1989) passed away in December last year. Maree was a long-serving Health Centre staff member and school parent as well as an Old Grammarian. We send our condolences to the Parish family, particularly her children James, Sarah (2018), Georgia (2020) and Sam (Year 9), her sister, Kathy Burt (Rusch, 1994) and all the family.
We were saddened to hear that past staff member James Petrie passed away in March. After leaving Grammar, James continued to be involved with many of our students through local sport. We send our sympathies to James’ family and his colleagues at Ballarat High School at this sad time.
Reverend T. Guy Philpott (1948) died in Newcastle on 21 December 2021. His three years as a student here (where his rank in the Cadet Corps was Sergeant) resulted in lifelong loyalty to, and affection for, the School. He married Margaret Sweetman in the Chapel of St Mark in 1955. Guy was a teacher, including 10 years at Caulfield Grammar, prior to his ordination in the Diocese of Gippsland in 1970. Fr Guy served the Anglican Church in many capacities in Victoria, Tasmania and New South Wales. He maintained contact with the School, visiting occasionally and attending interstate reunions until quite recently. Mary Steer (Smith, 1947) passed away in October 2021 after a short illness. Mary maintained her interest in the life of the School. Our thoughts are with Mary’s children and their extended families.
Jerome (Jerry) David Stern (1958) passed away in March. Jerry was a student at the Boys' School from 1955 to 1958, was a Probationer in 1958 and was involved in rowing. We send our sympathies to his wife Joell and Jerry’s extended family at this difficult time.
At the Memorial Service for Mrs G. F. J. Dart, 2004, Chapel of St Mark. Left to right: Judy Tunbridge, Leila Guymer, Mary Steer.
David Thomas AM (1955) passed away in February 2022. The son of Liddon Thomas (1911), who was a foundation day student at the Boys’ School in 1911, brother of Margaret Cutter (Thomas, prev. Wright, 1952), brother-in-law of Sidney Wright (past staff) and Gerard Cutter (1951), uncle of Timothy (1976), Elizabeth (1977), Christopher (1978) and David (1985), and great uncle of Nicholas (2013), Alexander (2015), William (2017) and Lachlan Wright (2014).
Reverend Guy Philpott pictured with Stephen Higgs and some students outside the Chapel of St Mark, c 2007. Note the embroidered Crest of the Boys’ School, partly obscured, on his Cope. David’s father was a very proud Old Grammarian, and David was baptised in the Chapel of St Mark; sadly, his father passed away when David was six months old. David attended Queen’s Kindergarten in 1942 and commenced his primary education as a student at the Boys' School in 1950. He was a Probationer, a member of the athletics team and a rower. Art was a very important part of the School curriculum. It is likely that Mr Ronald Quinn, the Art Master in 1954 and 1955, helped to inspire David's passion for Art. David succeeded him as a Student Master with sole responsibility for the teaching of Art in 1956 and 1957.
David commenced his University of Melbourne studies in 1958, where he completed a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in 1961, majoring in fine arts. Following his graduation, his first appointment was Keeper of the Pictorial Collections at the National Library in Canberra. He then went on to gallery directorships in Newcastle and Bendigo; he was responsible for bringing major exhibitions to Australia. David developed Carrick Hill Museum and Sculpture Park in Springfield, South Australia. He helped shape Art Policy in Australia and was a prolific author; his publications featured Australian artists and their works.
Deepest sympathy is extended to David’s wife, Brenda, his sister Margaret, and all the family, including three generations of Old Grammarians.
P.W. (Winston) Wood (1957) passed away in October last year. He hailed from Minyip and enrolled in 1953. Winston was a member of the First XVIII and was awarded Athletics Colours in 1957. In that year, he shared the under 16 Athletics Championship with J. Paine and won the Master’s Plate. He excelled as a sprinter and hurdler. Our deepest sympathy is extended to the Wood family.
David Thomas and David Wright at the Clarice Beckett Exhibition 1999.
CLASS OF 2020- 2 YEAR REUNION
On Friday 29 April we welcomed back more than 80 past students from the class of 2020 to City Cite. It was great to catch up with everyone and hear about what they have been up to since they finished Year 12.
Maggie Caris, Abbey Hobbs, Bronte Rix, India Flamsteed, Chris Morcombe
Heath Demmert, Rohan Clay, Reuben Rasmussen, Ryan Anderson, Jack Dallenger Charlie Bryan, Alexander Unmack, Fraser Thomson Kira Dawson, Alan Pitson, Finley Japp
BQOGA ‘CAREERS IN AGRICULTURE’ BREAKFAST
On 24 March this year, we held our second Careers in Agriculture Breakfast & Panel proudly supported by the Ballarat and Queen's Old Grammarians' Association. More than 40 students, staff and members of the Old Grammarians' Association attended the event, with many students interested in a career in Agriculture.
The knowledgeable panel of Old Grammarians and parents shared valuable advice and insight into the diverse and rewarding career opportunities in agriculture and related industries. Our panellists travelled from all over Victoria to share experiences in their various fields, including agronomy, agricultural aviation, farming, livestock sales, manufacturing, seed production, rural banking, business development, agricultural law and veterinary science.
The feedback from the students and staff who attended the breakfast was overwhelmingly positive, with many commenting on the breadth of opportunities in agriculture and the generosity of presenters in making themselves available to attend.
Thank you to our outstanding panel members:
+ Phil Hawker (parent)
+ Jacob Heard (2017)
+ Laura Molloy (2000)
+ Peter Mackay (1971)
+ Roger Richards (parent)
+ Louisa Johnson (parent)
+ Isabel Fay (2015)
+ Heather McBean (parent)
+ Tess White (2010)
+ Olivia Lawson (parent)
+ Jack Hickey (2010)
+ Tom Hunt (2012)
We look forward to hosting more of these events next year.
FOSSIL GATHERING
The FOSSIL (Friendly Old School Staff Intemperance League) Gathering for past staff and their partners, and current long-serving staff was held on Sunday 10th April, in the Kinsman Staff Room at the School with a lovely lunch provided. Past and current staff enjoyed reconnecting with those they worked with and others from years before them. Many of the group enjoyed a tour of the School and were amazed by all the developments. Some had not been back for more than 20 years!
Some of the attendees pictured at the FOSSILs Gathering - Ross Squire, Nola Squire, Jim McKay, Di Fulton, Anne Poulton, Graham Watts, Iris Blobel, David (Harry) Hedger (1962) who visited on the day, Claire Hay, Mark Warwick, Heather Johnston, John Daniel, Sandy Warwick, Pam Thompson. In addition to those pictured but absent for the photo: Stephen and Sue Higgs, Doug Rose and Rob Gray.
Thank you to everyone who attended; it was wonderful to gather and the FOSSILs appreciated greatly the warm and generous welcome back to the School.
Apologies were received from Ro Latham, Judy Boland, Tim Johnstone, Anne Tunstall, John Jones, Marg O’Loughlin, Bob Northey, Chris Shaw, Val Dulfer, Jane Johnson, Patrice O’Shea, Jane Boadle, Kath Milne, Peter Hunt, John Grant, Karin Miller, Gordon Forrest, Ian Buerckner, Helen and Peter Nethercote, Dianne Olston, Peter Burnett, Gail Sjogren, Dot Wickham, Peter Cole, Richard (Dick) Seddon, Dianne Olston, Nina Valentine, Lyn and Richard Lea, Lisa McCracken, Marica Phillips, Brad Fry and Cas McFarlane. Everyone was very pleased to hear their friendly messages and to know of their enthusiasm to attend future gatherings.
If you are a past staff member who would like to keep up to date with our news and upcoming events, please contact Gemma Kelly in the Development Office on 03 5338 0950 or email development@bgs.vic.edu.au
FIVE YEAR KEY DATES REUNION KEY SCHOOL DATES
After rescheduling the 5 Year reunion for the class of 2016 last year, we were excited to hold this event on Saturday 26 March at the Lake View. It was wonderful to host our first reunion of 2022, the first of many for the year. Over 90 Old Grammarians joined us on the glorious sunny Saturday afternoon to reconnect with old friends, teachers and mentors. Sarah and Tom Guthrie (parents of Ford Guthrie, who passed away in a car accident before commencing his final year) also joined us; they enjoyed seeing Ford’s classmates. Thank you to everyone who attended and especially those who travelled great distances for the event, some from as far as New South Wales and South Australia!
9 September Term 3 Ends 12 September to 16 September – Explorations Week 12 October VCE Art Exhibition Brandon Moss, Jack Dinning, Edward Dolan COVER: As we move into the ten-year anniversary celebrations for the Centre for Early Education (CEEd), we know how important our fi rst steps are in understanding our place REUNIONS in the world and how we can create a more sustainable future. Through the programs at 6 October the CEEd, including the much-loved Bushling Headmaster’s Luncheon, Sydney and Bush Kinder programs, our earliest learners are engaged with their natural environments 7 October – through play, and age-appropriate concepts Headmaster’s Luncheon, of sustainability are introduced. This ignites the childrens’ imagination and empowers them Queensland (Buderim) Samantha Turner, Annabelle Plunkett, Rebekah Porter, Emma Porter, Cara Danieli, to consider how we all might leave the world a 21 October better place. Annabelle Maher, Claudia Opie 50+ Luncheon (welcoming the 1971 and Ballarat Grammar acknowledges the 1972 cohort to the 50+ group) Traditional Owners of the land on which we learn, live and work. We pay respects 22 October to their Elders past, present and emerging, Gala Reunion and extend this to all Aboriginal and 1982 (40), 1992 (30), Torres Strait Islander People. 2002 (20) and 2012 (10) 5 November 2017 (5 Year) Reunion Scan the QR code below to see updated list of Key Dates on our website. There are also links to register for the above reunions.
Ashna Khalid, Chris Milne, Julian Hopkins Editor
Mrs Marnie Pullin Head of Communications and Marketing Special thanks to Nola and Ross Squire, School Archivists, and Gemma Kelly from the Development Offi ce for all their editorial assistance.
Boomalacka readers love stories and news about the Grammar family, past and present. If you have something you’d like to share, please contact Lara Gollan, Claudia Opie, Annabelle Plunkett, Rebekah Porter, Amy Greig, marnie.pullin@bgs.vic.edu.au Emma Porter, Cara DanieliPHOTOGRAPHY Steve McDonnell, Teagan Glenane DESIGN Mass Motion PRINTING Sovereign Press PRINTED ON Nordset Uncoated Stock
This publication has been printed locally in Ballarat by Sovereign Press Pty Ltd, a Low C02 Member and FSC ® Certifi ed printer. Ballarat Grammar Stephan Krunic, Jack ZongLing Mao, Lachlan McBean, Brandon Moss, and Sovereign Press are focused on being Tejas Menon, Alexander Jackson, Deirdre Simmons Jordyn McCulloch, Jack Dowling, Nathan Hanson, Liam Goochenvironmentally conscious for future generations.
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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
BALLARAT AND QUEEN’S ANGLICAN GRAMMAR SCHOOL
