The Barker #106

Autumn 2015 — Issue 106

Celebrating 125 Years and 40 Years of Co-education in 2015

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HSC Celebrating the Class of 2014

Teaching & Learning The Barker Institute

From the Archives 125 Years of Barker and 40 Years of Co-education

CONTENTS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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Preparatory School The Snowy River Boys Production

The Regulars 10 Prep School 12 Junior School 16 Middle and Senior School 28 Drama 36 Sport 44 The Old Barker The Features 04 The Barker Institute Research, Innovation and Professional Learning in a Data Rich World

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06 HSC Celebrating the Results of 2014 26 Where has the Barker been?

Where has the Barker been?

14 From the Archives 125 Years of Barker and 40 Years of Girls 29 How to Succeed A Barker Musical 43 The Barker Foundation The Inaugural Article from the Barker Foundation

Issue 106 Autumn 2015 The Barker is the quarterly magazine of Barker College Cover illustration by Donald Begbie

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Editor-in-Chief Mr Phillip Heath Editor Jonathan Mifsud Sub-Editor Stephanie Oley Assistant Coordinators Mandy Loomes Karina Drummond Print Production Ian Lindsay 0419 693 308 Art Direction Yolanda Koning 0404 811 136 facebook.com/barkercollege

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Junior School: Getting to know Martin Lubrano

FROM THE HEAD

Things

Mr Phillip Heath Head of Barker College

People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them. Mark 10:13-16

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quality of the things we are doing. When we dare to influence the world around us we must be outstanding in the things we are doing locally. At times we will appear to be dealing with people or with circumstances that bring nothing of consequence in a material sense. We seek to inspire hope in others by the character we show and the quality we share.

The year ahead will see a range of initiatives, some of which will be celebrated in the pages that follow. Matters for our attention in 2015 include the launch of the Barker Institute, construction of the Imaginarium, development of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program under the leadership of the new Head of Junior School, Mr Martin Lubrano, the formation of the College of Teachers, a revised Master Plan and a renewed energy in academic achievement.

The strong Barker College culture forged over the past 125 years makes this vision possible. We give thanks to the Lord for this year when we remember the blessings lavished on us since the early days in the Kurrajong residence of the Founder, the Reverend Henry Plume. We also give thanks for 40 years since the arrival of the first girls at Barker College in 1975.

It’s time now to make things happen for the next generations of our School.

Peace

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

new academic year brings so much promise and so many opportunities. The pages in our books are pristine and perfect, just waiting for our hands to make their mark. Our textbooks are new and so are the hopes for a bright year ahead.

It is at such a time that we remind ourselves afresh about the things that matter. The story of Jesus, who allows the children to come to him from among the pressing crowds who surrounded him, is more than a lesson about the importance of children. In fact, it’s quite the reverse!

In the time of Jesus, children were to be seen but not heard.

They had no rights at all and brought nothing of consequence into an encounter with a famous figure. There were no famous politicians ‘kissing babies’ in the first century. The disciples scolded parents for bringing children to Jesus because they were in the way and offered nothing. As we all know, Jesus turned the world upside-down by taking into his midst people who offered nothing, only faithfulness and hope.

Barker College is serious in fulfilling our vision: “To be a leader in Christian education that inspires global hope.”

The year ahead, therefore, urges us to start making things happen. Writing plans is the easy part – now we must fulfil them. The starting point is to enhance the already strong

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FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Chairman’s It will be a year of celebration as we remember the School was founded 125 years ago and that co-education was introduced into School life 40 years ago.

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t the end of 2014, the Barker School

community was challenged by Mr Heath through our Strategic Plan to consider the many possibilities in 2015 and the next few

—Ian Miller, Chairman

years. Mr Heath and all our staff are now

beginning to implement our strategic plan. If you wish to

see the Strategic Plan, please go to www.barker.nsw.edu.au/

About-Barker/inspire The principles underlying our Strategic Plan include: • Our understanding that we now live in a global context, with Australians all being impacted by events within Australia and in other parts of our world. In addition, decisions made in Australia have an impact within Australia and throughout the world. Our vision should seek to develop our students who can assist in local decision-making which will have a global impact.

• A commitment to rigour in our approach to all our academic and co-curricular programs, from Kindergarten to Year 12, and to ensuring we track each student’s academic progress. This will require continuous development of our academic program for each of our THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

students to meet their vision, gifts and talents as they

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prepare for their future contribution to our community.

• The provision of individual pastoral care and the ability of our students to work together. This is based on our Christian understanding that God cares for each of our students, and that should we fulfil our responsibility to challenge and care for each student at Barker College to become a caring and positive contributor to our community.

In implementing these principles, the School seeks to work alongside each student’s family to provide the setting and foundation for each of our students upon which Barker College can build.

We welcome our new students, their families and new staff to Barker College in 2015. In particular, we welcome Mr Martin Lubrano in his role as Head of the Junior School. We are looking forward to his contribution as the Junior School develops its enquiry-based learning approach, which builds on the Teaching for Understanding framework that has been in place for several years now.

In 2015, the School Council will continue to provide the resources necessary to develop and implement the Strategic Plan which the School Council adopted in 2014. Although the plan will have a life of five years, we are looking to achieve as much of the plan’s direction as we can in 2015.

I look forward to meeting you at the various School events throughout 2015, as we celebrate these milestones in the life of Barker College. I also look forward to your feedback and suggestions as we work together to implement our strategic plan.

Ian Miller Chairman

FROM THE CHAPLAIN

Welcome to One hundred and fifty students spent a weekend together at Galston on the last weekend of January.

t’s a Barker tradition, and one of our youth workers,

by over the weekend to visit the camp. In the Chaplaincy

Kirrily Aynsley, had this to say about the weekend;

Department, we love the contribution the girls make to

“Barker College’s Senior Weekend Away has been running (in one form or another) at the beginning

of the new school year since 1980 – we think! It has

proved an excellent way to welcome students into the Senior

Barker and feel privileged to have played a small role in welcoming them to the School over these past 40 years.

At Barker, we are proud of the great role that the Chaplaincy Department plays in nurturing the students’

School. Significantly, in a year in which we celebrate 40 years

spiritual lives. I wish our Seniors all the best as they embark

of co-education, the Senior Weekend Away has proven an

on the academically – and mentally – rigorous final years at

excellent opportunity for the Barker College Cru group to

the School, and I look forward to another meaningful year

warmly welcome new girls.

with the whole school community, exploring the many ways

The 2015 weekend was no exception. We saw many girls

in which God touches our lives.

come along to the Senior Weekend Away, which enabled them to get to know many other students as well as the Chaplaincy Department and the many teachers who stopped

Jeff Ware Senior Chaplain

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

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—Top, Above Left and Right Students enjoying the many activities at the Senior Weekend Away that were designed to help them get to know each other and their new School community.

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TEACHING AND LEARNING

The Institute Research, Innovation & Professional Learning in a Data Rich World

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

LINKS

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Dr Bartek Rajkowski The Reading Doctor 速 software which is used by many practitioners. www.adelaidespeech.com

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In light of the transformations taking place in the world today it is essential to question the models we use to imagine the future. For if we are unable to grasp the novel systems emerging around us, we will be unable to ensure a congruence between our aspirations and our actions (retrieved 5 February, 2015. http:// curriculumredesign.org).

The focus of the Barker Institute will be to more effectively harness the broad sweep of data we produce as we look to inspire global hope among our young people. Critical in this will be aligning our data-led insights with the way our practice is being modified to meet the needs of our learners.

The Barker Institute will look to develop this role as it contributes to the educational forum.

Dr Brad Merrick Director of the Barker Institute brad@barkerinstitute.com.au Dr Greg Cunningham Director of Teaching and Learning greg@barkerinstitute.com.au

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

chools are amazing places as they are so datarich. Data exists in students’ work, classroom observations, tests, reports and in our many daily conversations.

Similarly, data surrounds us in many other ways, ranging from formal and informal assessments to external examinations. We are often unsure how data should be interpreted and acted on. In a world immersed in emerging technologies where the image of the 21st century learner is juxtaposed with a raft of standardised testing, it is important to focus on real learning, where student inquiry, understanding and engagement guides thought and action.

Teachers are now awash with data, yet they must be confident and skilled in applying this data within their decisions about teaching and learning so they become: “active players in the data-rich environment that surrounds them and incorporate a system of use for interpreting and acting on information” (Earl & Katz 2006, pp. 2–3). Equally, educational researchers have recently called for a more rigorous use of data in ways that promote an ongoing cycle of improvement (US Department of Education 2009; Bernhardt 2005). Using data within a cycle of improvement ensures that any collated content is analysed and used to enhance learning. Professor John Hattie, Director of the Melbourne Educational Research Institute at the University of Melbourne and Chair of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL), suggests that data must be available at the classroom level to improve teachers’ understanding of learners’ needs.

Bearing all this in mind, how can schools effectively harness this data for their students’ learning? And how might a strategic approach in dealing with data lead to better quality teaching and improved learning? The Barker Institute was established by the Head of Barker College, Mr Phillip Heath, at the end of 2014 to respond to these and other important questions. The Institute’s aims include combining the latest educational research, professional learning and emerging practice for staff and the broader Barker College community. It will develop its work in a way that allows for a collaborative sharing of educational trends and emerging issues, encouraging contributions from the School and broader community to this important discussion.

The Barker Institute was launched on Thursday 5 February by renowned researcher and presenter, Dr Bartek Rajkowski, at Barker College. Dr Rajkowski is a speech and language pathologist whose doctoral study investigated the underlying processing difficulties in children with dyslexia.

His Inaugural Barker Institute Address considered why too many Australian students struggle with reading and what should be done about it. He offered insights from current research on reading acquisition and dyslexia of which every teacher and parent educator should be aware.

An integral part of the School’s new Strategic Plan, Inspiring Global Hope, the Barker Institute is the offspring of the existing Research@Barker. The Institute aims to advance research and practice locally, nationally and globally, by partnering with other educational organisations, providing seminars and courses that inspire educators to develop their own professional practice. In so doing, the Institute will enable the School to contribute to the national conversation about learning, teaching and educational policy.

Apart from having a major educational research thrust, the Institute also focuses on developing professional learning for teachers and mentoring and coaching educators. It will provide valuable opportunities for teachers and students wishing to harness the rich research possibilities and data that exists in a large school such as Barker.

The role of a teacher is to be faithful to authentic student learning, yet current trends in the teaching profession seem fixated on results from standardised tests that take place on one day. While that data can be useful, teachers spend the entire year collecting all sorts of immediate and valuable information about students. This knowledge informs and influences how we teach, as well as where and what we review, re-adjust, and re-teach.

Reil Millar, the Head of Foresight, Bureau of Strategic Planning at UNESCO recently wrote:-

TEACHING AND LEARNING

The Barker Institute was launched on February 5 by renowned researcher and presenter Dr Bartek Rajkowski at Barker College.

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HSC

HSC–Celebrating Barker College is proud of the achievements of the Class of 2014. This fine body of students has had a remarkably successful year in so many different areas.

There have been captivating performances across a wide variety of co-curricular areas such as, on the sporting field, in musical and drama productions, outdoor education and community service.

Head of Barker College, Mr Phillip Heath “We are delighted with the performance of our students, but recognise that a successful school experience goes far beyond the scores gained on a single measure such as the ATAR or the HSC Merit list. We seek to provide the means for our students to develop their character, as well as their intellect, by offering an extensive program of co-curricular activities and opportunities for community service and pastoral support.”

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Distinguished Achievers’ List

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Marcus Berkley, Earth and Environmental Science – 1st Nikita Besseling, Earth and Environmental Science – 4th Emma Bryant, Ancient History – 2nd Alexander Chye, Economics – 4th Tristan Deall, Automotive Examination – 1st Noah Grundy, Earth and Environmental Science – 6th Harris Kershaw, Earth and Environmental Science – 7th Catriona Kon, Mathematics General 2 – 3rd Jennifer Pym, Visual Arts – 7th Chelsea Telfer, Design and Technology – 6th

Barker has an enviable reputation for educating strong all-rounders:

16 students who achieved top band marks in 10 or more units

Students gained 9 places in a variety of the 43 subjects on offer, one of which was first place.

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The quality of our student’s major works has been rewarded with 24 nominations for inclusion in the Board of Studies showcases.

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Earth and Environmental Science Place Getters.

Harris Kershaw

Nikita Besseling

Marcus Berkley

A Few of Our Distinguished Achievers.

Distinguished achievers received top bands in one or more subjects

Timothy Berney-Gibson

Hunter Preston

Alexander Chye

Jennifer Pym

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015 

James Vodicka

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HSC CONTINUED

A Few of Our Distinguished Achievers.

Distinguished achievers received top bands in one or more subjects

Jack Davis

Mitchell Gordon Lea Jurkovic

Matthew Buffa

Charles Johnston

Creative, Performing Arts and Sports Achievements Drama Nine students were nominated for OnStage. OnStage showcases the most outstanding individual and group performances by HSC Drama students. Individual performances by Sean Goodwin for Richard II and Georgia Wales for Hitchcock Blonde were selected. Two group performances were also selected – Laura Colenbrander, Sean Goodwin and Renata Labio in The Road to Oz and Savannah Brell, Nathan Lewis, Adam Roberts and Georgia Wales in Assassination.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Music

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Our Music students enjoyed another successful year of performances. The Senior Choir won the Youth Mixed Choir Sydney Eisteddfod and the Senior Percussion Ensemble achieved 2nd place in the Secondary Schools Percussion Sydney Eisteddfod.

Design and Technology Barker students’ creativity and design were recognised with several students nominated for DesignTech. Their works ranged from a wall hanging to urban eco outdoor furniture and a physio aid for improving balance. Matthew Buffa’s mind controlled prosthetic hand will be showcased at DesignTech.

Visual Arts James Vodicka’s sculpture, Lifetime Warranty, was selected for inclusion in ArtExpress and will be on display at the Armoury, Sydney Olympic Park from 6 March – 26 April.

James also won 2nd place in the 2014 Capture Ku-RingGai photography competition; the 2014 UNSW Science Photography Competition and achieved a highly commended award in the Engineering Photography Competition, also run

by UNSW.

Outstanding Team Performances During 2014, Barker students displayed great leadership, discipline and sportsmanship as they celebrated the win of several Associated Schools of NSW Premiership titles.

These included the CAS and ISA Open Athletics Champions; the Girls ISA Open Division Cross Country Champions; Boys’ Football Premiership; Netball ISA Premiers; Softball Open Premiers, Girls Swimming ISA Open Champions; Debating and Mock Trial Champions. Our Cadets, Basketball, Cricket, Rugby, Squash, Tennis, Touch Football, Volleyball and Waterpolo teams also enjoyed a very successful 2014 season.

HSC

Highlights...

99.95 Atar

Alexander Chye scored a perfect 99.95 ATAR. This is the fifth consecutive year that a Barker student has scored the top ATAR.

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Eight students achieved ATARs of 99 or more in 2014 (top 1% of the State).

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In 2014 there were 16 students who were listed on the HSC All-round Achievers’ List.

39%

39% of Barker students achieved ATARS of 90 or more. 85% of students achieved ATARs greater than 70.

There were 10 placegetters in a range of subjects. Four students were placed in the top 10 in Earth and Environmental Science, The overwhelming majority of students who applied for a university place were successful in gaining one.

including Marcus Berkley, who was placed 1st in the State.

Seung Yup Baek

Laura Colenbrander

Simon Ivimey

Marcus Berkley

Jack Davis

Charles Johnston

Timothy Berney-Gibson

Sean Goodwin

Harris Kershaw

Nikita Besseling

Mitchell Gordon

Scott Nevison

Michael Bleasdale

Lachlan Hobill Cole

Raymond Ye

Alexander Chye

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015 

All Rounders

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PREPARATORY SCHOOL THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Photography by Susan Wearington.

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—Clockwise from top left Stockmen and kookaburras; Brumbies, sun, trees and cockatoos; Cockatoos and trees; Shawn Liang, Cooper Robb-Jackson, Rayhaan Banerjee and Luke Mantis rehearse their roles; Hugh Jonker recites the Man from Snowy River.

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

The Boys Late in Term 4, 2014 the Prep School boys learnt, practised and performed an interpretative piece inspired by the Banjo Paterson poem the Man from Snowy River.

—Above Final scene.

the stockmen, culminating with the escape of the colt. In the final scene the whole Prep cast sang the first two stanzas of the well-known poem.

This cross-curricular production involved the boys consolidating and demonstrating many skills. The boys were involved in every aspect of the production through drama, singing and dance. They demonstrated teamwork, cooperation, perseverance and patience as they mastered complicated movements, sequences and choreography.

The boys and the staff thoroughly enjoyed the creative process. Staff encouraged and supported our young stars during each rehearsal and performance. In addition, they designed and created all the props and costumes.

Congratulations to Mr Neil Harrison for an amazing production! The Best of the Baggy Blue Boys it certainly was!

Sarah Dickson Head of Early Learning K - 3

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

This featured in our Kindergarten to Year 6 production, The Best of the Baggy Blue Boys, written and directed by the former Head of Junior School, Mr Neil Harrison.

The overall production was an amalgamation of various scenes from past Junior School Playnights. The Prep boys’ interpretation of The Man from Snowy River from the 2004 production The World of Art wowed the matinee and evening audiences with colour and movement, poetry and song, spectacular costuming, music and lighting.

The whole Prep School was involved in rehearsals as each scene unfolded and the story emerged. The item commenced with the dawning of a new day, the cracking of a stock whip, the rising of the sun over a forest of eucalyptus and the stockman gathered around a campfire. Then groups of cockatoos, kangaroos, kookaburras and brumbies created a kaleidoscope of images. The moon and the stars appeared and Scene 1 ended with the appreciative applause from a packed Multi-Purpose Hall.

In Scene 2, four of the stockmen recited the final stanzas of The Man from Snowy River. The moon, stars and eucalyptus trees provided the setting for the stockmen. In Scene 3 the focus was on the tussle between the colt, the brumbies and

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JUNIOR SCHOOL

New Mr Martin Lubrano has come to the Junior School with extensive experience in boys’ education, in both New South Wales and international curricula.

He presided over the introduction of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program at his previous school, Trinity Grammar.

During the 2016 academic year, Mr Lubrano will take up the important role of President of the Independent Primary Schools Heads of Australia (IPSHA) – a position to which he was elected in 2014.

Two of our Junior School captains, John Cuttle and Connor Bond, spoke to Mr Lubrano on his background and interests.

Who Lives in the Lubrano house?

My wife, Carolyn and I live with our two young children, son James and daughter Jenaya. Another important member of the house is our German Shepherd puppy, Koda. Our house is lively and energetic and we have lots of fun together.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

What sporting teams do you support?

In rugby, I support the Waratahs – I think they are a mighty team. In rugby league I have always supported the Sharks and I’m really looking forward to them playing well this season. I also enjoy watching the Swans play in the AFL, especially if I can get to a game. In the English Football League, Arsenal has always been my team and I certainly like watching their games when I get the chance.

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Tell us what you like to do on the weekends?

My family and I love to go to the beach when we get the chance. We all love swimming in the surf and playing in the sand. We also love spending time with friends and family.

It’s so important to treasure these times, sharing experiences, laughing and chatting. We all enjoy attending our church on Sundays, and many of our friends join us there also.

Where do you like going in your holidays?

I am a big fan of water skiing and Lake Macquarie is a great place for that. My wife and I also enjoy snow skiing, but we don’t seem to have as much time to hit the slopes as we once did. One country I would like to visit in the holidays some time soon is Japan. I have always been fascinated by its history and its culture – I’d also like to try skiing there!

Who do you really admire? Why is this person important to you?

I have always admired Steve Waugh. He was a fine captain for Australia, with such a high level of cricketing skills. I admired the quiet yet determined manner way in which he led his team. I admired his tenacity and how he always tried his best for his team and country. His service to people who are less fortunate than him, and the understated and unreported way in which he goes about helping others, is admirable.

What are your first impressions of the Junior School?

The first thing that has struck me about Barker is the amount of green space. The playing fields and the spaces you have to run and play in are great. Your new buildings in the Junior School offer learning spaces that few schools have – it is a beautiful building to work and learn in. There is such a positive feeling in the air and all the boys are so friendly to each other. Your teachers seem very positive and happy to work here. They have been friendly and welcoming – it’s a very happy place to come to each day.

Why did you become a teacher?

I remember so well the teachers I had in primary school and I think that most adults remember their primary classroom teachers the best. I have always enjoyed working with children. I believe that primary education is so important in laying sound and firm foundations, and it brings me great pleasure in seeing young people grow and learn in so many ways.

What would you like to do in your new job?

Right now there is nothing urgent or pressing – I’m enjoying being part of this community and being able to observe everything happening here. My wish is to simply keep improving what is already occurring in this Junior School.

James Laukka Director of Curriculum

JUNIOR SCHOOL

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

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ARCHIVES

of Barker and of Girls

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Barker became the first independent school in Sydney to introduce co-education when these 59 girls walked through the Mint Gates in 1975.

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The Rev. H. Plume, M. A. (ActingWarden of St. Paul’s College, within the University of Sydney, and Examiner to the Supreme Court, formerly Scholar and Prizeman of C. C. Coll., Cam.), will after Christmas, take a limited number of pupils to prepare for Junior, Senior, and Matriculation Examinations…For prospectus apply St. Paul’s College.

N. B. – Pupils allowed the use of Pony The Sydney Morning Herald, October 5, 1889

The school house was a weatherboard cottage, with additions for dining room, classrooms, etc. There was no electric light, no telephone, and house water was not too plentiful, but we had a magnificent view over the Hawkesbury flats, Richmond and Windsor… Many things at the original Barker were perhaps crude, compared with the present school, but I had a very happy time there.

Herbert Friend, Student 1892-1894

ARCHIVES

Rev and Mrs Plume with Barker students at Kurrajong Heights, 1894.

He [Henry Plume] had no ambitions for his school. It was his medium of self-expressions and service, and it is doubtful whether he ever realised that he was establishing a school which is destined to play an important part in the educational life of the State.

But he carried it in his heart and was always as deeply interested in its progress and welfare as when he was in charge of its destiny.

Bicton Wilson, Student 1896-1899, and Staff 1899-1900

The School’s founder, Rev Henry Plume, with his wife Eleanor.

Edmund Harvie Thompson (1903) Collection.

Certainly the most significant event in the life of the Senior School this year was the entry of fifty-nine girls into form five. They and the one hundred and thirty boys who continued from Form Four are the real foundation of the Senior School…

Chris Strong, Dean of Senior School 1975-1980

Barker girls relaxing in the classroom, 1975. Richard James Ford (1976) Collection.

Barker’s short experience of coeducation has convinced us that the school community has been greatly enriched by the presence of girls and not just in the obvious spheres of music and drama. Just as attitudes of men and women complement each other to create a balanced set of values in the world at large, so they do likewise at school.

Trevor McCaskill, Headmaster 1963-1986

Helen Rose Wilson, Student 1975-1976

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

So despite my aversion to surnamecalling, high desks and cold rooms, the people and activities which are the essence of Barker College, make me answer ‘How do you like your new school?’ with ‘Very much, thank you.’

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ENGLISH & MATHS

Shakespeare Reloaded

In November 2014, the collaborative project between Sydney University and Barker College, called Better Strangers, launched its own website – Shakespeare Reloaded, www.shakespearereloaded.edu.au The site is aimed at secondary and tertiary educators and students, and offers access to the project’s research ideas, teaching and learning activities, and world-leading research projects.

It also features a blog for educators to keep up-to-date with project news and relevant information about Shakespeare education, theory, practice and performance.

Three activities (all with downloadable worksheets and guides) have been launched on the site to date. The Shakespeare Imaginarium, The Bard Blitz and Kings’ Games are all borne out of work trialled at Barker. The Imaginarium is a four-stage professional learning course for teachers of Shakespeare; The Bard Blitz is a close-reading and argumentbuilding exercise for teachers to use with students in the

classroom around Hamlet; and Kings’ Games is an engaging classroom activity that helps students to understand the narrative and motivations of Shakespeare’s Richard III via dramatic gameplay.

The project team, of Associate Professor Liam Semler (team leader), Professor Emerita Penny Gay, Professor Will Christie, Associate Professor Jackie Manuel, Dr Linzy Brady and PhD student Claire Hansen, have worked with Barker English and Drama staff over a number of years. They have used the School as a research and testing space to experiment how to make education in Shakespeare even more engaging, while being theoretically informed and rigorous. The website is part of a goal to share this understanding more widely and build global connections amongst Shakespeare educators interested in innovative methods and ideas.

Andrew Hood Head of English

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Medal Winner in

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Breaking a five-year drought for Barker College, William Li was a medalist in last year’s Australian Mathematics Competition, which put him among the top 0.03 per cent of students in NSW. He correctly answered the last 10 questions, presenting his solution to question 29 to the entire Middle School assembly, to rapturous applause. William, now in Year 9, has always loved learning mathematical ideas.

His favourite mathematician that he has studied so far is Pythagoras, and his favourite topic to date is algebra. At home he likes to look up the problem of the week on the internet and try his skills at solving it. William is looking forward to studying Extension 2 Mathematics in Years 11 and 12. Although it is early days, William likes the thought of using his mathematical ability in the finance world, maybe even becoming an actuary when he finishes school.

Ros Hamblyn Assistant Coordinator of Mathematics

COMMERCIAL STUDIES

—This photo The demand did not stop for 45 minutes —Below A busy day of trading.

Market Day chaotic lines was quite tiring, it brought great excitement as we realised the success of all our preparation and the knowledge learnt in class. Each stall ran very successfully, which was confirmed through the $2620.70 raised and donated to the Room to Read charity.

Ultimately, Market Day was an insightful experience which gave students a fun and practical way of implementing the skills learnt in the classroom.

Benjamin Lorschy Year 9

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

On 16 October 2014, Year 9 Commerce students participated in Market Day at Barker College. As an initiative driven by the Commercial Studies department, its purpose was to allow us to practice the skills learnt during our Running a Business unit, and experience what it’s like to operate a business. Classes were divided into small groups, and each member had to assume roles that governed various areas of their stall, such as marketing, finance and operations.

On the day, we were given early-marks from our classes to quickly arrange our stalls. As the bell sounded for lunch, many of us were nervous as to how we would do. From beginning to end, waves of people piled into the courtyard and although serving the

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LAW & JUSTICE THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Mock

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Barker College has won the 2014 Mock Trial competition for the first time. This is a prestigious event run by the NSW Law Society, giving students an invaluable insight into our justice system.

Students undertake the roles of barristers, solicitors, witnesses and court officers prosecuting or defending a case. In 2014, our team progressed to the elimination rounds in August and faced various opponents in the knockout trials. This involved travelling to places as far away as Penrith and Camden. The competition started with over 200 schools from all over NSW. The Grand Final took place in December at the Moot Court in Sydney University and was presided over by three judges.

Barker was prosecuting a case of arson against St John Paul College, Coffs Harbour. In announcing Barker College as the winning team, the chief judge praised them for their highly developed advocacy skills, preparation and team presentation.

Our barristers, Seamus Dove and Geordie Wilson agreed that they had learnt a lot about our legal system by participating in the competition and it has motivated them to learn more about the law. Our witnesses, Zac Gomes and Oscar Samios are looking forward to becoming the barristers in the team later this year, having gained invaluable experience in their role. Our solicitors Luke Glendenning and Viran Weerasekera have enjoyed the challenge of supporting counsel in court. Our court officer Tyler Wilson learnt about the professionalism required in communicating with judges and keeping order in the court.

Rebecca Mountain Mock Trial Coordinator

History on Display The end of 2014 was a busy time for the History Department. We hosted the inaugural History Exhibition Evening to showcase student projects completed over the course of the year. Many of the exhibits were the result of personal interest and Genius Hour time. The evening was a great success and was well attended by students, staff and parents.

Another outstanding success was achieved by Evan Lee, who was a winner in the National History Challenge (Australia and Asia). The winning essay discussed the changing perspectives of the foreign policy of the Whitlam government. Evan was supported to his success by his teacher, Amanda Eastman.

HISTORYY & LANGIUAGES

—Below Alessandro Trinchero and Joel van Herten present their Genius Hour project on Abraham Lincoln.

The department also marked Remembrance Day with an assembly for Year 9 students. This event was organised and delivered by students in Mr Dibben’s class, who combined soldiers’ testimony with musical performance to create a deeply moving commemoration. Earlier in the day, Year 9 students sold poppies at Hornsby station and at School, raising over $2,200 for the RSL sub-branch at Gilgandra.

Greg Longney Head of History and Commercial Studies

Watch that Language —Above Caitlin McMenamin, James Lancaster and Nicholas Chang at the Latin Summer School.

Latin Summer School During the summer holidays, over two hundred Latin enthusiasts gathered at Sydney University for a week-long course on the language and culture of ancient Rome.

Three of Barker’s Year 12 Latin scholars attended, along with students from schools across NSW. They enjoyed reading selections from the poets Virgil and Ovid, as well as speeches written by the orator Cicero. The relaxed yet rigorous nature of the week provided an excellent forum for many students to broaden their linguistic skills prior to embarking upon the HSC Latin course.

Summertime Fun for Languages!

Matthew Ross Head of Languages

—Above Mrs Christine McDonald in Liao Ning province, China.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

China Teaching Scholarship On Sunday January 1, Christine McDonald travelled to China on a fully funded Commonwealth scholarship. The award – one of only 10 across the country – aims to promote the teaching of Asian languages in Australian schools. Christine had the opportunity to visit schools in Liao Ning province.

She gained rich insights into Chinese culture and established some invaluable contacts, which we hope to develop further.

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THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

ALUMNI PROFILE

ALUMNI PROFILE

Alumni Director of Alumni Relations, Mandy Loomes, speaks with Seann Moore from the Class of 2008.

What are your favourite School memories, and who were your most influential teachers and mentors?

I was part of anything and everything at School, taking advantage of many co-curricular activities – CAS Swim Team, Choir, Band and A-Tennis team – but I think the highlight was playing Tony in West Side Story. Teachers who influenced me included my Japanese teacher, Mrs McKinlay, and my tennis coaches, Clint Newcombe and AJ Jesperson.

But my greatest mentor is the fabulous, one and only, Lynda O’Brien. She believed in me and in my talent, which is all I could ask for.

What was your next step after Barker?

It took me three attempts to get into the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA). Coming from Barker, I thought it would be easy to get in! Wrong – they only take nine males and nine females, so it was hard! I started a Bachelor of Arts at UNSW but deferred this to focus on getting into WAAPA. During that time, I performed in amateur musicals including Rent and The Wedding Singer, and attended dance lessons at Sydney Dance Company with Lynda O’Brien, who kept me in check. I was thrilled when I was finally accepted into WAAPA. When I called Lynda with the news, we were both crying.

How do you stay focused to reach your goals?

I know what I want and where I’m headed. I was part of the original cast of Sweet Charity (now playing at the Opera House) and The King and I (tour). I’m currently in a cabaret show called Speigelicious which is where I’m meant to be.

I’m in my element and love it. Everything is cultivating my dream to be the lead in my own show, The Seann Miley Moore Popstar Arena world tour. I want a Grammy Award!

—Left Seann Miley Moore in The King and I.

You had four costume changes in The King and I. Which was your favourite and why?

The Elephant, even though it took so long to get into each night. It was my moment in the show. Who doesn’t love a big red elephant covered in Swarovski crystals?

How do you feel when you perform?

I love and hate performing. It’s where I’m most comfortable but also most petrified. If you really want to let out everything you feel, the stage is where to do it. There’s nothing like it. Your whole body feels the energy of the audience. When that spotlight hits you and your red glitter lip sparkles, that’s it!

What has been the biggest challenge you have come across in your life so far?

Honestly, being comfortable in my own skin. Dealing with my sexuality and not changing who I am to fit in.

What advice do you have for today’s Barker students?

Don’t second-guess yourself. Be confident, and work hard.

Take risks, put yourself out there and try things outside your comfort zone. At Barker, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I think the most important thing for current students is to immerse themselves. Get involved in sports teams, be part of Music and most importantly, try Drama.

You might not be an actor when you leave, but you learn to be confident and comfortable within yourself. Those lessons are the most important when you leave the Barker bubble and step into the real world.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Who is the most influential person you have worked with so far?

Jason Coleman. He has helped me express myself as an artist through Speigelicious. I cannot express how grateful I am to be part of a show that allows me to share that with the audience. It’s confronting and scary, but it’s a good thing to grow as an artist and as a person.

What was it like working with Lisa McCune and Teddy Tahu Rhodes? I understand you would go to the gym with Teddy to keep in shape for the show. Who worked out hardest?

Lisa is so talented and genuine, and that voice! I will never forget her advice when I was preparing for an audition and was confused on how I should portray myself. She said “Seanny – do you! You are unique – just go for it. If you want to sing a Shirley Bassey song with a red lip, do it. Who else is going to?” In this industry you can second-guess yourself and your artistry, but at that moment it clicked. And Teddy – what a beast! Yes, we went to the gym together, where he taught me a chest superset so I’d get the best Simba pecs possible! Teddy is amazing.

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BOARDING

—Above Year 10s day one —Below Boarding captains Jacob McCorry and Mollie Groat with Mr Phillip Heath at their induction ceremony.

An Exciting Year in The 2015 boarding year commenced on a high, with full Houses and the arrival of many new boarders from a vast array of backgrounds, experiences and locations.

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he community has welcomed boarders from overseas, interstate, NSW country and outer metropolitan Sydney, along with a number of boarders who have transitioned to boarding from day school.

On the first day, our Year 10 boarders arrived early with varying degrees of excitement and trepidation, as their dreams of moving into boarding suddenly became a reality.

As the unpacking and organisation process began, the level of chatter increased, stories were shared, friendships made and the group headed off together to commence their Barker adventure.

This year will be recognised as the ’year of the siblings’, with four pairs of brothers and sisters sharing their boarding experience together. We also have seven other boarders who are siblings of past boarders. Vicki and Vivi Liang (Year 10) say, “It feels like we are at home and we can support each other along the way.” Noah Learoyd (Year 12) feels that his family is more together now that his sister Hannah (Year 10) has joined him in boarding.

At the start of the term, the boarding community came together and participated in the induction ceremony of the boarding captains, Molly Groat and Jacob McCorry.

The captains have been working hard to develop the sense of community, and a culture of gratitude and giving back among the boarders.

To complement the School’s Inspiring Global Hope strategic plan, Molly and Jacob presented their boarding vision for 2015, called Giving Back – The Big Three. They will be coordinating the boarding community’s participation in the Red Shield Appeal and Donate Life program. In addition, the boarders have undertaken to sponsor Mbonimana, a sixyear-old boy from Tanzania, through the World Vision child sponsorship program.

A very exciting year is in store for the boarding community.

Jacqui McLachlan Head of Boarding

STUDENT LEADERSHIP & SERVICE

—Clockwise fromt top Brad Wall leads a War Cry; Facilitators: Caitlin Bell, Cameron Dove, Tanian Naude, Stephanie Leaper, Jaydyn Cohen; Serving Prep School boys.

& Service

Like a hand in a glove, it is the hand (or service) that brings the glove (leadership) alive. The student leadership program at Barker is designed so that service to others is the forum through which leadership is nurtured.

Stories of service and leadership from former students, including Bob Mansfield, Sarah Onions, Chris Webb, Todd Cole and Amie McNee, helped to bring the ideas into the real world beyond school. Many of our Year 10s experienced the fulfilment of serving others and seeing their leadership skills come alive. Our wish is that they will find Barker to be a place that inspires future hope for their world, and allows them to develop and practice their leadership and service to fulfil their vision.

Dean Bunn Director of Student Leadership and Service Learning

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n example of this is our Year 10 leadership program, Leading Without a Title, which runs for 10 weeks through the Pastoral Care program. It explores the many opportunities that students can experience in serving the Barker community and building the School’s cultural capital. It culminates in three days of practical activities, in which Year 10 students can serve the Preparatory and Junior School boys through delivering fun, interactive lessons on the leadership principles they have learned.

Recent alumni including Brad Wall, Lucinda Mance, Stephanie Leaper, Jaydyn Cohen, Cameron Dove, Oliver Hannon, Tanian Naude and Caitlin Bell were invited back to lead the Year 10 groups and to assist the presenter, Bernie Kelly.

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SCIENCE

Science

by Rob Paynter, Head of Science

—Above Swimming with the turtles.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

—Above The group heading down from Cook’s Look, the highest point on the island.

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Lizard

Fifteen fortunate Year 11 Biology students and three teachers had a memorable week on Lizard Island in the September break.

They stayed at the Australian Museum Research Station and spent every day exploring the abundant coral reefs. A highlight for many was swimming with the turtles and reef sharks.

It was also good to catch up with Alex Vail (03), who grew up on the island – his parents are in charge of the Research Station.

Alex has just completed his PhD at Cambridge.

SCIENCE

Young Scientist The Young Scientist Awards celebrate exemplary scientific investigation and models or inventions carried out by students across NSW. Barker College has had a long history of success in these Awards, and 2014 was no different with four Year 9 students gaining positions in the State.

Oliver Nicholls 3rd place in the new Models and Inventions category “To successfully build a replica model of a pulsar and receiver and compare output of the model to a real pulsar”.

Josh Lorschy 3rd place in the Earth and Environmental category “Do all liquids evaporate at the same rate?”

George Gardiner 2nd place in the Earth and Environmental category “Homemade Solar Air Heater”.

—Above George Gardiner, Oliver Nicholls, Josh Lorschy and Jayden Pak after receiving their Young Scientists Awards.

Robotics

Science teacher Sarah Cormio continues to inspire the Robotics team, which has been hard at work since the start of January in the new Robotics Centre. This year, for the first time, the competition will be held at Sydney Olympic Park in March. A video clip of what this year’s competition involves can be viewed on YouTube – just look up ‘2015 FRC Game Reveal – Recycle Rush’. The team has been working closely with parent mentor, John Nicholls, as well as Daiane and Jeser Becker, two mentors from Brazil.

to be judged in Melbourne at the BHP Billiton Awards. Oliver was placed in the top eight finalists. He has been asked to display his model at Questacon in Canberra.

Foyer

Refurbishment

The Science Centre foyer has been refurbished and we are excited about the new marine aquarium which is beginning to take shape. Not many will make it to Lizard Island, but all can now enjoy the colourful soft corals and fish on the way to class. Barker is working closely with Reef River Reptile in Hornsby, which is sponsoring the tank.

—Above The refurbished foyer with fresh plasterboard and marine aquarium.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

—Above In the Robotics Centre with Alastair Noble and the Brazilian mentors Daiane and Jeser Becker.

Jayden Pak 2nd place in the Chemistry category “The effectiveness of commercially available teeth-whitening products”.

This year, Oliver’s project was selected as one of 16 finalists

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WHERE HAS THE BARKER BEEN?

Where has the NEW YORK CITY NEW ORLEANS, USA

VICTORIA FALLS

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA

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KYOTO, JAPAN

KYOTO, JAPAN

LAS VAGAS, USA

WHERE HAS THE BARKER BEEN?

MIDDLE EARTH, NZ

NOTRE DAME, PARIS

COLDFOOT ALASKA, USA QUEBEC, CANADA YANKEE STADIUM, NEW YORK

SRI LANKA

VENICE, ITALY

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

TJAPUKAI CULTURAL CENTRE, CAIRNS

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DRAMA

The Resistible Rise of The Year 9 students of Barker College again proved that, with only three terms of Drama under their belt, they still had enough talent to deliver an exceptional standard of work in their production of The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

In the lead role, Isaac Elliott was outstanding as Ui, the mobster turned dictator, clearly echoing Hitler’s sinister and violent rise to power. Griffin Ford gave a magnetic performance as Ernesto Roma, both before and after death.

On subsequent nights Isaac Morgan and Oliver Iles-Mann gave brilliantly sinister interpretations of Giuseppe Givola, Ui’s right-hand man.

Will Solomon imbued the part of Dogsborough with a gravitas well beyond his years. Rod Mcleod’s thuggish interpretation of Emanuele Giri brought a strong aesthetic to the piece, while a supporting cast of many more produced brilliant cameos in certain scenes: Eden Bird as the drunk Classical Actor, Angus Brodie as O’Casey the City Hall investigator, George Birch as Butcher of the Cauliflower Trust and then Defence Council, Sam Milligan as Ted Ragg the journalist and Sheet, the ‘suicidal’ Trust member.

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Other highlights included Tom White, Malcolm Trayner, Finn van Herten and Oliver Calloway as the long suffering Cauliflower Trust Board of directors; Reuben Spargo, accompanying Oliver Iles-Mann or Isaac Morgan on subsequent nights to play the Announcers and Goodwill and Gaffles of the Trust; and Adam Fiertl as the ill-fated Dullfeet.

The Year 9 students were joined by two of Year 10’s finest female performers – Annabel Wilcher took on two roles, as Dock Daisy and Betty Dullfeet, while Olivia Whiting played a stunning if small part as Woman, a victim of the conflict.

The supporting cast and crew must be applauded for bringing together the production with the professionalism they showed.

It was an audio-visual spectacle which I hope will stay with people for years to come.

Sam Hawkins Drama Teacher

—Above Isaac Elliott as Artruro Ui, with Annabel Wilcher as Dock Daisy.

MUSICAL

How to Succeed, A 97-strong cast. 24 crew.

16 orchestra. 5 nights...

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015 

Finch (Isaac Peiris) reading his way to the top.

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MUSICAL

How to Succeed continued

“Hello, Mr Finch’s Office” – Miss Krumholtz (Caitlin Plummer) and the executives

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

The amount of student involvement in Barker’s 2014 Musical was astounding and one the creative team is incredibly proud of...

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The orchestra, under the baton of our maestro, Andy Mifsud, worked tirelessly to bring Loesser’s fabulous music to the Leslie Hall stage, while the crew and their fearless leader, Technical Director Dugal Parker, made sure everything ran smoothly and that our wonderful set and lights worked effortlessly. Candice Jones made every number sparkle on stage with her superb and detailed choreography, convincing every student that they could in fact dance – and dance well. The cast enjoyed exploring the genius of Frank Loesser and his team of writers, who so cleverly walk the line between the inherent sexism of corporate America in the 1960s and the satirical nature of this musical comedy. Our leads were superb and the ensemble spectacular.

It was a privilege working with such a talented cast and creative team, bringing to life this hilarious and vibrant show. I was constantly inspired by their enthusiasm, work ethic and joy de vivre. I will leave you with the reflections of our cast representatives, Caitlin Plummer and Harry Phillips, on the experience that was the 2014 Barker Musical.

Amy Robertson Director

Hedy (Sophia Murray-Walker) and Biggley (Dom Westwood) sing of their Love from a Heart of Gold.

MUSICAL

were tearing up halfway through Act 2, knowing that such a wonderful experience was coming to an end and it was time to pass it on to the younger years.

With the guidance of our beautiful Director, Musical Director and Choreographer, we were all able to produce something truly magical.

orchestra blew us all away with their refined performance of all the pieces we performed.

The period over which we were rehearsing and performing the musical was our favourite time of the year. It made us happy to see the whole musical family come together and make this labour of love special for all who were

“With the guidance of our beautiful Director, Musical Director and Choreographer, we were all able to produce something truly magical.”

They were the heart and soul of the musical and it would not have been the same without their helping hand guiding us. Another crucial element to the musical, and one that we felt did amazingly this year, was the crew.

They worked wonders behind the stage to get the show looking spectacular in each of the five performances, and the

involved, and to amaze and entertain the audience who witnessed it in its final state.

How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying was such a thrill!

Caitlin Plummer and Harry Phillips Year 11 (Musical Cast Representatives)

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying was an amazing show, and one that we will always remember.

The combination of a talented cast, entertaining orchestra and wonderful crew made the experience unforgettable. Through hundreds of hours of rehearsals, the cast bonded over harmonies, difficult choreography and the world of 1960s New York, and were practically a family by the end.

When you are in Year 10 or 11 and go into the busy atmosphere of putting together a musical production, there is always something to do. There are those extra lines that need to be memorised, or a few more dance moves to be perfected, and it always amazes us that everyone goes through the immense time and effort required to make a top performance.

Regularly, we would stumble across Middle School students or prospective new Year 10 girls on a tour, explaining how excited they are to be a part of the musical. It is great to hear that it makes such a difference to people’s perceptions of Barker and the performing arts. One of our fondest memories was closing night, the majority of the Year 11 students

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VISUAL ARTS

JEREMY CHIVAS – A GREAT DIVIDE ENTRY FOR THE PIXEL PRIZE.

Lasting L

ast year, the Visual Arts Department presented a broad variety of exhibitions around Barker, representing students’ highly individual responses to the world around them. This is a crucial

function of our subject and one of the most enjoyable parts of our role. Students are often immensely proud to see their artworks displayed, so that they can be seen by their friends and other teachers. In 2015, we look forward to increasing the number of pieces displayed to include

• Lucien Lambrechts, Gorillas in our Midst • Hayden Nicholls, Broken Hill 2014 Moran Contemporary Photographic Prize (Finalist Student Section) • Fergus Hudson, Hugh • Jeremy Chivas, On the Lookout 2014 Pixel Prize

Library, RE Kefford and Administration buildings.

• Jeremy Chivas, A Great Divide

numerous art competitions. I would like to acknowledge the following students for their efforts and outstanding

2014 Capture Ku-ring-gai • James Vodicka (2nd), Our Local Shops and Streetscapes

achievements:

2014 Ilford Schools Photographic Competition

2014 Silk-Cut Award

All photography students contributing to Barker College

• Ethan Dower, Avalon • Han Lin, The Cowboy Street Store THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

(entries selected for exhibition)

artworks by students from Years 7–12 in the Design Centre, Last year we also entered students’ artworks into

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2014 Mosman Youth Art Prize

won 1st prize each term and at the annual competition.

Individual achievements:

• James Ambrose, Moss Bespoke

1st prizes:

• Patrick Lewis, Quintessence Lindfield

Hayden Millican (twice), Hayden Nicholls, Jeremy Chivas,

2014 V-Fest (a student film competition) • Jami Blood (Senior Section), Pissed

Ben Maxwell, Claire Metcalfe and Jonathan D’Cruz.

Merits: Harry Chalmers, Hayden Nicholls, Rachel Wang, Jeremy Chivas, Mariah Dunn (twice), Georgina Griffiths (three times), Alfie Helps, Hayden Millican, Bevan Uzun, Jonathan D’Cruz and James Stokes.

VISUAL ARTS

ALESSANDRO TRINCHERO’S WINNING ENTRY FOR THE BARKER MARK 2014.

ETHAN DOWER, AVALON

PATRICK LEWIS, QUINTESSENCE LINDFIELD

Art Express

JESSICA TIMMISS

JAMES VODICKA

JENNIFER PYM

STEPHANIE WERNER

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Four students were nominated for ArtExpress 2015 • Stephanie Werner, Silence is a Woman’s Best Garment • Jessica Timmiss, Allure of the Ordinary • Jennifer Pym, Tabula Rasa. Jennifer achieved 99% in HSC Visual Arts and came 7th in NSW. • James Vodicka, Lifetime Warranty. Currently, James is preparing for university life and will undertake a Bachelor of Marketing and Media at Macquarie University. You can see James’ continued involvement in Visual Arts through his photography website, www.jvodickaphotography.com

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DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

Abu Dhabi F1 in Schools

World Final

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n December last year, Southern Cross F1 competed in Abu Dhabi in the World Final F1 in Schools Competition.

The collaborative team, made up of three Barker and three Merewether High School students from

Newcastle, came sixth out of 38 teams from around the world.

This is a substantial achievement at this level of competition and I am extremely proud of how hard the team has worked.

The F1 in Schools program involves over nine million students from 17,000 schools in 31 nations.

Barker team members Patrick Smart, Andrew Simpson and Viran Weerasekera have shown great dedication since March last year to prepare for the Final. Their effort and attention to detail rewarded them with first place in the Folio section, which documents all aspects of their preparation.

Southern Cross F1 would like to acknowledge their major sponsors, Amalgamated Instruments Co, Port Waratah

—Clockwise from top F1 in Schools World Finals teams visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque; Southern Cross F1 team meet Daniel Riccardo; World Final teams meet at Yas Marina Circuit.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Coal Services, Varley, the Barker Old Boys Association and

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the Barker Foundation, along with the tremendous support

During their stay in Abu Dhabi, Southern Cross F1 team

that they received from their local community. The team is

members also spent time with other students from around

extremely thankful for the support that they received.

the world, visited the Grand Mosque, museums and the Burj

Team members highlighted the following benefits from

Khalifa. They met with Daniel Riccardo and attended the

participating in the competition:

Grand Prix. All of the team members are looking to pursue a

• competing at a world level

career in engineering or marketing, and this experience will

• collaborating with universities and leading professionals

prove extremely beneficial.

• developing management and communication skills • engaging with and resolving difficult problems

Darren Woodrow

• seeking and organising corporate sponsorship

Head of Design and Technology

• valuing team work.

Improving

—Clockwise from left Jack Conwell testing 3D printed parts for strength and fit; Year 7 using K’Nex to test structural loads; Oliver Nicholls using MultiCAM to produce robot parts and test them for assembly and function.

chance discoveries. Students need to recognise that they too are capable of discovering through testing and observation.

More importantly, the benefit of testing is that it improves performance. This is a mindset that is required in schools and organisations if Australia is to remain competitive.

Darren Woodrow Head of Design and Technology

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

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t is wonderful to watch students discover. It is equally pleasing to see teachers shift their focus toward delivering the experiences that will empower students to shape the future. The move toward inquiry-based learning enables students to gain a better understanding of how they can set up tests and experiments to discover what might happen. While not every activity has a perfect outcome, the ability for a student to evaluate their findings is real and it provides an opportunity for improvement and sometimes

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

Some chance discoveries: Post it Notes, Teflon, laminated glass.

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BOYS SPORT

Barker students crowned

Australian Champions THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Over the holidays, the National All Schools Athletics titles took place and a number of Barker students qualified to compete.

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his championship saw the best school-aged students in Australia compete against each other.

Barker students won a total of seven medals, including Matthew Wood winning gold in the 18 years hurdles and Will Lloyd winning gold in the 16 years hurdles. Below is a full list of Barker medallists from this championship, showing the real athletic talent that we have among the students. Congratulations to all of these students, and I look forward to seeing them excel further in 2015.

Matthew Wood – 1st in 18yrs 110m hurdles, 2nd in 200m race.

Will Lloyd – 1st in 16yrs 110m hurdles, 3rd in 200m race.

Taylor John – 2nd in 18yrs 800m race.

Falito van Woerkom – 2nd in 16yrs javelin.

Ben Nogajski – 2nd in 14yrs high jump.

Steve Thomlinson Sportsmaster

BOYS SPORT

Canberra Cricket Tour2015

It was cloudy on 4 December as the 8As travelled three hours south to meet rival schools, Radford College and St Edmund’s College, Canberra, in what would be two action-packed days of highly contested cricket.

Our first game was against Radford. We lost the toss and were put into bat, proceeding to score 156 with Lachlan Fisher at 23 runs, Dan Alleyn (22) and Max Naish (22) all making excellent contributions. We were successful with the ball early in the innings, with Connor Cameron taking two wickets and igniting a Radford batting collapse. We cruised to a 60-run victory, with three wickets to Lachlan Fisher and two to Tyson Lee.

This saw the return of the Challenge Trophy for the ninth year in succession. Our second game was held on the slow outfields of St Edmund’s College. We won the toss and elected to bat, scoring 90 runs in our 40 overs. Josh Turner starred with the bat, scoring 25 runs. Our bowlers did a great job defending our total, they took a flurry of early wickets and we bowled St Edumnd’s out for less than 50 runs.

This victory unfortunately brought our tour to a close, with a good team effort by all over the two days.

Tyson Lee 8A Captain

Basketball Report

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thrilling semi-final against Hunter Sport High School, with their self-belief getting them home in the final minutes. The Grand Final against Central Coast Adventist, the current CIS champions, was always going to be a challenge. However, the team put in an incredible effort and pushed the opposition to make a real contest of the game.

The Firsts will now continue to build their skills as they commence the second round of the CAS at the top of the table.

Steve Thomlinson Sportmaster

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

he U15 team won the National Schools Championship in Canberra last December, having gone undefeated during the week-long event.

The boys were led by Benjamin Fakira and Angus Henskens, who played in the Barker Firsts. Daniel Smedley was another standout, and was well supported by Sam Jones and the excellent shooting of Quinn Campbell. Harry Flaherty and Lachie Basten provided plenty of energy from the bench, and ensured we grabbed every rebound. Pat Chang and Oskar Fricke did their part in ensuring the opposition were under pressure the entire match. Lachlan Bofinger played a vital role in the Grand Final, and performed strongly when the game was on the line.

It was a tremendous week and the team improved markedly.

The First basketball team enjoyed a great week of basketball at the National Schools. They played in the U20 division, displaying their usual tenacity and spirit. The team won a

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GIRLS SPORT

—Clockwise from left Firsts Coach Pat Guilbert celebrating with Captain Rhianna Whitlock; Eloise Wicks stepping the opposition; Genevieve Love looking to score, with Natasha Costellino and Amy Saikawa in support; Key to success – working as a team, not an individual.

Touch Football

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Stepping Up

he Girls Touch Football Program has flourished over the past few years. Over 120 girls participate in the sport, surpassing Netball as the most popular Girls’ Sport at Barker. With the successful introduction of neuromuscular training, to help prevent injury, and a committed band of coaches on board, the squad had one goal this season: to break the three-year premiership drought. With numerous undefeated runs into semi-finals, our Barker teams have come close to claiming a championship on numerous occasions, and participated in many drop-off situations (where one player from each team is dropped from the field until one team wins).

Term 4 2014 was to be the year. With a huge crowd and perfect weather, the scene was set for a thrilling decider in Division 1 against local rivals, Abbotsleigh. The 1sts kickstarted the day with an entertaining display of skill and teamwork to secure a massive 17-1 win, a testament to

the newfound confidence and teamwork achieved under coach Pat Guilbert.

The Barker 2nds and 3rds created some inter-school rivalry by both winning their way through to the Division 2 Grand Final. This hard-fought battle, in which the lead went back and forth between the teams, was a highlight for the crowd with the 3rds pulling off a 6-4 upset.

The Barker 4ths also made the Grand Final, playing well in the heat but going down narrowly to Abbotsleigh.

With the Barker Term 1 Invitational Competition (Friday Night Lights) well under way. The teams are keen to continue improving and developing their skills to achieve back-to-back premierships, and also help ISA to victory in the NSWCIS Touch Football Challenge later in the year.

Alex Butt MIC Touch Football

GIRLS SPORT

Barker Bunker

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he new gym area now allows for strength training, agility and cardiovascular training, and also displays cutting-edge functional equipment and floor design.

These new features allow the girls to access all facets of fitness to suit their goals. From pump classes to spin classes and individual programs, the revamped gym has sparked excitement and encouraged the girls to try new training techniques within the Bunker.

This year has also seen the introduction of the Bunker Screening Program, an initiative designed to help instructors create structured individual programs and aid injury prevention. The program has been welcomed, with a high number of girls already on board.

The Barker Bunker has gone from strength to strength, and we are excited to see the girls eager to learn and embrace a healthy, active lifestyle in 2015.

Chloe Taylor & Louise Gabb Girls Fitness Instructors

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

It was a fresh start for the Barker Bunker after its holiday makeover. The girls’ gym has seen a revamp to its layout for 2015 with three functional gym spaces now on offer, including a free weights room, spin room and a group fitness area.

—All above Functional Fitness, Pilates, Spin and Individual Programs.

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OED

—Clockwise from top A group enjoying the Head of School’s visit; Snow sports; Sunrise at Kings Canyon.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

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Outdoor Education

typical year in Outdoor Education sees students pushing their comfort boundaries, trying new things and forging new friendships with peers and staff alike. Camps are all about learning – about new student experiences and insights.

Hard outdoor skills are learned at the Grange, such as putting up a tent, cooking, navigation and packing a backpack, under the direction of our own qualified staff.

From there, progression has been carefully planned at each year group camp to extend and challenge students.

The typical Outdoor Education year looks like: • Year 8 DEAS Camp, held in Berowra Valley. Two nights in tents, walking, canoeing and a basic ropes course.

• Year 9 Urban Challenge. An urban-based Amazing Racetype activity. Students sleep in YHAs and solve problems to progress through the three days.

• Year 9 Serve and Survive Camp. Held in the Myall Lakes area. This is the last boys camp where they will surf, walk, canoe and participate in a community service

activity, which in past years has involved cleaning the Hind Dunes of rubbish and weeds to promote a healthier ecosystem. The Year 9s camp in their Barker-issued tents for four nights.

• Year 10 Adventure Camp. Held in the Snowy Mountains, this is a highlight for the girls and boys alike. Students white-water canoe, hike up Mount Kosciuszko, abseil, rock-climb, single-track mountain bike and contribute to a community service project.

• Year 11s get to choose their own camp. The strands vary from a Central Australia cultural odyssey, snow camping up beyond Thredbo, participating in a marine research project in Sydney Harbour, extending their outdoor skills on the South Coast, or conducting a significant community project.

Apart from the compulsory year group camps, Barker College Outdoor Education also offers Adventure Sports such as canoeing expeditions and snow sports. The Duke of Edinburgh runs alongside all of these events as well.

Andrew Ashby Director of Outdoor Education

Church Bivouac

CADETS

—Above Unit colours are marched into the Chapel by CUO’s Jack Redman and Jacob Hellyer for the Annual Church Parade.

The unit’s Annual Church Parade was conducted on the Sunday before Remembrance Day. The ADF (Long Tan) Teamwork and Leadership awards were presented to Jennifer Khouw (Year 12) and Devlin Gunzenhauser (Year 10) by Lieutenant Colonel Ian Cavanagh OAM (Commander of the Sydney Schools Battalion). Ian has been an Officer of Cadets for over 50 years and a great supporter of BCCU. He is a regular visitor to our Glenworth Valley, Singleton and BCAT camps and often cites the Barker methods as among best practices when speaking to other units or people in the cadet organisation – he especially applauds BCCU for allowing the students to run the unit with ownership of the plan, plus conduct the activities with adult guidance and assistance.

—Below Inside the C130 Hercules training aid at Holsworthy.

A highlight for many cadets and staff was being able to look inside the Hercules ground trainer and gain an insight of the size and internal décor including the flight deck. Major Nye was able to brief students on this retired RAAF C130E airframe and associated parachute drills with the knowledge gained from his decade as a Ground Liaison Officer with the RAAF and his experience of parachute operations during his postings with 3RAR (parachute Battalion).

BCAT

Terry Nye Commanding Officer BCCU

—Right Annika’s home away from home.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

Once again a determined group of BCAT (Barker College Adventure Training) students challenged themselves in early January as they braved the heat and terrain to undertake the annual challenge. For the first time eighteen attempted the Silver award, and six returning campaigners sought to qualify for their Gold award. The student of merit for Silver was Annika Allen and Gold was Michael Nicholas.

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BCMA

—Clockwise from top left Year 10 girls enjoying the new common room; A sample of items collected on behalf of Anglicare; Year 5 mothers gather for a group photo with the BCMA President.

Fostering

throughout the Barker Community

After an extremely busy 2014, the BCMA committee is straight into 2015, planning the many events we will be hosting this year.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

T

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he Parents New to Barker College Dinner was held on February 10, organised and hosted by the BCMA. It was a wonderful evening, with over 370 guests enjoying the sensational meal prepared

by Barker’s chefs, under the guidance of Pascal Perrotin.

Our main objective at the BCMA is to foster friendships and develop the community of Barker College, and this event is the perfect platform.

We also embarked on the year group morning teas throughout the first month back at school, which were well attended and catered for, as is the Barker tradition.

Some longtime friendships have been forged at these morning teas, and I wish to thank those families who opened up their homes to welcome us.

The BCMA never forgets those who need a helping hand, and we use the morning tea events to collect donations on behalf of Anglicare. Thank you to all who contributed this year to our drive.

Among the projects earmarked for the BCMA to support this year, we had the great pleasure of donating to the new Year 10 and 11 Common Room, which was unveiled during orientation at the start of the term. As you can see, the space looks incredible, with custom-made furniture and kitchen facilities. From all accounts, the students are enjoying a place of their own for relaxation and study throughout the day.

I would like to thank all the BCMA committee members for their dedication to making our events so enjoyable for all who attend, and for the many hours of behind-the-scenes work they do. We have an exciting year of fundraising and new friendships ahead.

Best wishes to all for a wonderful 2015.

Jenelle Montgomerie BCMA President

BARKER FOUNDATION

Barker T

he Barker Foundation is a philanthropic organisation led by a vibrant community. Since 1981, the Foundation has helped the School Council and Head of School advance education at Barker College. Members are drawn from all constituencies of the Barker Community, whether parents or grandparents of current or past students, staff, ex-staff, alumni and friends of Barker College.

All members are donors to the Foundation’s Building, Library or Scholarship Funds. These Funds have taxdeductible gift recipient status. If you are not already a member, now is the time to consider becoming one. The Foundation’s Board of Directors is elected by and from the Foundation’s membership.

The Foundation strives to enliven and promote the culture of giving in the Barker Community, which in turn underwrites the viability of Barker’s aspiration of inspiring global hope. Philanthropy at Barker matters. The Rev John Griffiths, former Chairman of the School Council, put it well: “Barker’s riches lie within its community; members of whom give so generously of their time, energy and money.”

The Foundation will continue to support the School in many ways. The Building, Library and Scholarship Funds all enable gifts and donations for essential School buildings and facilities, library learning resources across

—David Charles, Barker Foundation Chairman

all year groups from K-12, the provision of scholarships and bursaries to Barker students, and funding for individuals (such as Indigenous students) needing assistance. The Foundation also administers the Education Trust, which facilitates Travelling Fellowship Grants for staff professional development, provides for various awards, prizes and competitions for students (including Mathematics Day), and enables visits by academic specialists and musicians.

Every March, the Foundation hosts its own signature event – the Sunset Cinema evening, when we screen a popular movie for families in the Prep and Junior Schools.

Barker families bring their own picnic dinner or pre-order pizza, and enjoy festivities such as face painting and games before the screening.

These are splendid evenings of fun and friendship.

Donations to the Foundation – no matter the size – are valued and appreciated.

All philanthropic assistance from the Barker Community supports the School’s mission to inspire global hope. It is with such support that Barker students can flourish as they pursue new insights and develop their talents for life during and after Barker. I encourage you to support the Foundation and become a member in 2015.

The Foundation strives to enliven and promote the culture of giving in the Barker Community, which in turn underwrites the viability of Barker’s aspiration of inspiring global hope.

THE BARKER | AUTUMN 2015

David Charles Barker Foundation Chairman

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THE OLD BARKER

Autumn 2015 — Issue 220

Sthalekar Lisa Sthalekar, Class of 1997, was voted by the 2014 Middle School Seniors as their role model for demonstrating the determination to succeed. Lisa attended an assembly where she was acknowledged by the students, and joined them for lunch. These are the students’ words as presented to Lisa.

Lisa Sthalekar attended Barker College from 1996-1997.

In her time at Barker, Lisa was a member of the Girls First XI Cricket Team in 1996, and captain in 1997. She represented the CIS Cricket Team, where she also was the captain. From there she went on to be part of the NSW U19 Cricket Team and was eventually selected in the Australian Women’s Youth Squad in 1996. Lisa has worked for Cricket NSW as the youth program manager for female programs, and is currently a consultant coach for Cricket NSW and a commentator for the ABC. Lisa Sthalekar is one of the most successful female players to represent our country. She represented Australia in eight Tests, 125 one-day internationals and 54 Women’s Twenty20 Internationals, becoming the first and only female player in one-day internationals to score 1,000 runs and take 100 wickets. Beyond her sporting achievements, THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

she has inspired many through her charity work with the

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Pink Ribbon campaign, as well as her determined mindset and passion for the sport. Lisa Sthalekar’s story has inspired the Seniors of the Middle School as they embark on their own leadership journeys.

—Top Lisa acknowledging the crowd after scoring a half century at the Adelaide Oval —Above Lisa at lunch with the 2014 Middle School Seniors.

46 From the OBA President 48 Reunions and Dinners 52 OBA Groups 55 Obituaries 58 Personal Notes

Contributions Welcome Please send contributions to Mandy Loomes, Director of Alumni Relations, 91 Pacific Highway, Hornsby NSW 2077 or mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au.

For further information please contact Mandy on 9847 8229.

Personal notes are published in good faith, as a service to the Barker Community.

Old Barker Association Contacts email: oba@barker.nsw.edu.au

Interstate and International Barker Contacts

President Tony Gamson (78) 0458 564 556

Brisbane Andrew Wilkie (01) 0412 779 383 (m) andrew.wilkie@morgans.com.au

Honorary Vice-President Peter Gregory (03) 0400 419 253 Honorary Treasurer Michael Brodie (79) 0409 980 009 Honorary Secretary David Brookes (79) 0400 906 052 General Committee Chris Bennett (83) Paul Goncharoff (88) Pip Hurley (Webber 85) Jenny Kalaf (Melville 78) Catherine Lancaster (82) Matt Ross-Smith (10) Di Slater (Stanbridge 91) David Trayner (84) Nominees to School Council Pennie Cruickshank (79) Michael Brodie (79) Tony Gamson (78) OBA Annual Patron Sandy Hollway (64) Keith Thornton (64) Benjamin Anson (85) Over 70s Contact Robert Hill (56) (02) 9144 3582

School Contacts Director of Alumni Relations Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 (Sch) mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au Alumni Reunion Coordinator Karina Drummond (02) 9847 8283 (Sch) karina_drummond@barker.nsw.edu.au

Archivist Sarah O’Neill (02) 9847 8290 (Sch) soneill@barker.nsw.edu.au

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OBA Groups

Melbourne Murray Anderson (65) 0457 000 407 (m) murray@capricorngroup.net.au Northern Rivers Jim Poulos (61) (02) 6686 7711 (h) pamio@bigpond.net.au Perth Tom Hargreaves (69) 0437 906 588 (m) tom.hargreaves@inpex.com.au Sunshine Coast Phil Benjamin (61) pandj.benjamin@bigpond.com

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Upper Hunter Charles Cooke (65) (02) 6545 8141 (w) charles_cooke@esat.net.au Canada, Ontario George Darling (70) george.darling@snclavalin.com

Personal Notes

Hong Kong Brayden Winkler (07) brayden.winkler@gmail.com Japan Carl Bastian (93) bastianinternational@msn.com Middle East Erik Huyer (72) (966) 056 409 0144 (m) erikhuyer@gmail.com New Zealand Scott Brown (91) (64) 027 230 4561 (m) scott@hipgroup.co.nz Oceania (Fiji) Neil Underhill (75) (679) 336 3968 (w) neilunderhill@connect.com.fj Papua New Guinea Johnson Kalo (83) (675) 305 6703 (w) jkalo@bsp.com.pg Singapore Carly Switzer (94) carlyswitzer@yahoo.com.au UK, London Annette French (Slattery 88) (44) 1732 382 281 (h) annette.e.french@sky.com USA, Wilmington Andrew Renton (85) (910) 612 5671 arenton1@mac.com

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OBA Events

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

Manager of Archives Morwenna Pearce (02) 9847 8290 (Sch) morwenna_pearce@barker.nsw.edu.au

Canberra Andrew McColl (74) 0422 985 281 mccoll@grapevine.net.au

FROM THE OBA PRESIDENT

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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FROM THE OBA PRESIDENT

President’s The School has changed in a hundred different ways, many too small to notice, but important all the same.

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

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his year marks two milestones in the history of Barker College. Not only does the School reach its 125th year, but also the 40th anniversary of co-education.

For those of us who were students at the school in 1975, we will remember well that day when 50 girls came through the front gates for the first time. One can only imagine what must have been going through their minds as they instantly became the centre of attention for over a thousand pairs of eyes.

I remember the lead-up to that day very well as my father was a member of the School Council who, along with the Headmaster, Trevor McCaskill, made the decision to invite girls to enrol in 5th Form, as it was then called. In hindsight it all seems so obvious, but at the time it was very courageous.

Of course, the talk was that this move was madness and it would be the beginning of the end of Barker as a serious educational institution. Ridicule was heaped upon the School, and the experiment was expected to last only a year or two at most.

To look at Barker today, the only conclusion possible is that co-education has become the defining characteristic of the School. We are now seeing many students come to Barker not because their fathers or grandfathers did, but because their mothers did. This is remarkable when you consider most of these women attended for only two years, and yet it made such a positive impression upon them they chose Barker to educate their own children.

We all take great pride in this and recognise the positive impact Barker has on young men and women as they complete their secondary education.

—Tony Gamson (78), OBA President

In our own activities, The OBA too has benefited enormously from our female alumni. Half of our current general committee members are female, and one of our three nominees to School Council was among the earliest co-ed intakes to Barker.

Barker Old Girls Hockey is very successful, and last year the creation of the OBA Theatre group was driven by two old girls. We have also seen the creation of the OBA Netball Club, once again proving our female alumni are proud of their connection with Barker.

This is something to be celebrated and encouraged, and the OBA will do just that this year, with a special commemorative event on 29 May. You have all made a significant contribution to Barker and to the alumni network.

On a different note, there are many alumni who need support as the pressure and challenges of modern life can sometimes prove overwhelming. Many of us know someone who has dealt with mental health issues, which can have a devastating impact on individuals and their loved ones.

After discussing the issue with John Hensley, who leads the excellent counselling team at Barker, the OBA has formed an alliance with Black Dog Institute, specialists in this field. We hope that by raising awareness of this issue and the support available to sufferers, we can offer some assistance and comfort to those affected by this significant and damaging condition.

Tony Gamson OBA President

Shots

FROM THE ALUMNI PARENT BREAKFAST Each year we host a series of breakfasts for our alumni parents and their Barker children in The Marks Pavilion. This has been a fabulous opportunity for alumni to catch up with friends from their time at the School, and for their children to celebrate their family connection with Barker.

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015 47

REUNIONS AND DINNERS

ANNUAL DINNER—

OBA Annual Dinner The OBA annual dinner was held in Boyce Hall on Friday 7 November. The School grounds were a beautiful backdrop as guests enjoyed pre-dinner drinks and canapĂŠs in the courtyard while the OBA Big Band played.

More than 115 alumni, partners and friends of Barker sat down to share a wonderful dinner and to listen to our guest speaker, David Astle (79). David, who is a journalist, crossword-maker and linguist, was fabulous and very entertaining.

The evening was also an opportunity to recognise Reverend John Griffiths (48) as an OBA Life Patron, thanks to the exceptional service he has provided to the Barker College community. John was on the School Council from 1970-2001 and was Chairman from 1991-2001.

The night also included the reunion for the Class of 1954.

It was great to see all decades represented from the 1940s through to today. Our oldest old boy was from the Class of 1948, and youngest from the Class of 2014.

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

It was a wonderful evening with great food and great company. We look forward to seeing you at the 2015 dinner.

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ANNUAL DINNER

Bruce Edwardes (54)

Class of ’54

Honor non honores was the call from old school tie So we headed for Waitara, where the old school memories lie But we found a near new complex with gardens in between Modern-looking buildings and ovals sporting green We gathered at appointed time outside the Boyce Hall doors Welcomed by the College Band, a drink and food galore We were lucky there were name tags, to jog the memory dim Of faces known in fifty-four, the class that we were in There was Neil, who made his pile whilst working in the Bush And Ron, a well-known broker who traded with the push And Des, the man with figures, who made sure we paid our dues Whilst Brian and Don presented in their first four-wheel debut So it’s great to have a catch-up, with memories of the past I was sad I didn’t speak with more, the way that time soon passed But there is a way to solve it, for all of us to share The OBA website, please write a little there I’m feeling kind of lonely, as only one of eighty-eight If you have a go and log on then I’ll have another mate And if you have no access, or can’t do it on your own I’m sure your child or grandchild could make your presence known But wait, I’ve had an answer from way up the Queensland side One Peter Maidens answered, he’s one who has not died He’s turned into an author and now a book he’s made With help of our Bert Findlay, where basics were first laid So there you are; it works a treat, you never know your luck It’s luck we need from here on in, so get out of the rut And have a go, you never know what mates are waiting there What they’ve done, who they’ve met, there’s stories everywhere.

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

60 Year Reunion We gathered at Boyce Hall to the welcome sounds of the College Band – or perhaps not so welcome for those of us a little hard of hearing! The weather was just fine, as were the canapés and drinks served in the forecourt of what we oldies knew as the Assembly Hall.

Without going into detail, the meal was excellent but of course it is the company of those present that makes the evening so interesting. I have to admit, my memory is not as good as that of others present, but I did enjoy stirring up the grey matter and touching base with classmates of yesteryear.

With due respect to the speaker, I really enjoyed the photos of Barker events, seemingly going back to its inception, being shown on a screen throughout the evening. Another welcome thought was the leaving class photos provided as place mats, including a reproduced photo of our year with names noted on the bottom.

Others like myself, who left early and never sat the Leaving, have never had a composite record of the Class of ’54. I can now put names to faces.

of ’54

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REUNIONS & DINNERS

REUNIONS & DINNERS— Class of 1964 – 50 Year Reunion The 42 who attended came from across NSW, interstate and overseas, for the terrific evening at Cammeray Golf Club on 25 October 2014.

Dinner was enjoyed in surrounds delightfully themed

by Keith Thornton’s daughters. A nostalgic video played with sights and sounds of the School and Sydney in 1964, cleverly compiled by Ron Switzer, who was also the evening’s photographer.

After dinner, Keith and Sandy Hollway delivered messages from those unable to attend, and remembered those who are, sadly, no longer with us.

James Hunter conducted a trivia quiz that unlocked a few fossilised brain cells in us all, and over the odd glass of wine, triggered many a dubious anecdote of our school days.

All agreed that our friendships are still as warm and strong as they were back in 1964 and that all are very much looking forward to our next reunion.

—Above Henry Davis, Sandy Hollway, Phil Noss, Brian Lang and

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

Bill Jauncey.

50

—Above Brian Smart, Ron Switzer, Peter Cribb, Ken Halliday, Craig Terrey.

—Above Class of 1989 Reunion.

Class of 1989 – 25 Year Reunion A balmy October evening saw close to 60 committed and thirsty former students from the Class of 1989 descend upon Petersham Bowling Club for our 25-year reunion.

Name-tags were discarded in lieu of the more fascinating study of visual recognition and awkward introductions.

Wisps of grey hair and occasional glasses made the task all the more challenging. Results varied from, “remember me?” and, “we shared Economics in Year 9, dude” to, “he has not changed one bit” and, “I thought he became a woman?”

A relaxed game of barefoot bowls was interrupted by local kids stealing the jack so we adjourned to the cosier surrounds of the lounge, where tunes of the early 90s and the grunge era provided the perfect soundtrack, reminding us just how good music was before MP3s and Triple-J became unrecognisable.

A surprise visit by Mr Horsfield had the physics students lining up to provide recollections of how they’d eschewed general relativity and standard deviations to join the banking industry. The rest of us just laughed at how we’d travelled through our goth/metal-head/surfer-dude/longhair/shaved-head/dance-club/uni-politics phases and how we can’t now be hipsters because our beards are too grey and the jeans are too tight.

Many of us shared stories and pictures of our kids, from teenagers to infants. We renewed old friendships and made new ones.

We fondly remembered classmates lost – Lyall Cunich and James Perry.

And while we counted down the minutes until the bar tab ran out, and we were sent out into the night to head home or continue to party elsewhere, we vowed to try it again in five years from now, just before we get to 50 and probably start listening to jazz.

Geoff McKeown

Canberra Event

In November last year, the Class of 2004 got together to celebrate our 10-year reunion. Where did that time go!

With around 115 people in attendance, the night was filled with excitement at seeing familiar faces, re-introductions for forgotten names, laughter at old high school stories, and an enthusiasm to understanding each person’s story since school.

Hosted at The Treehouse in North Sydney, we were treated to live entertainment by four of our own alumni – a trip down memory lane with old-school anthems. Ten years on, and many of us have travelled and now live abroad, so it seemed only fitting to also host expat reunions in London and New York.

To all those who came, thank you for making it such a fun and memorable night. To those who got together abroad, we hope you managed to reminisce as much as we did back in Sydney. Finally, to those who weren’t able to make it, we are sorry to have missed out on hearing your story, and hope to see you all in another 10 years.

On Friday 31 October we met at The Commonwealth Club for our annual Canberra gathering. Barker’s new Head, Mr Phillip Heath, and Director of Alumni Relations, Mandy Loomes joined us for the event.

Phillip spoke about the School as it is today and his vision for the future. Alumni in attendance were Gerald Farleigh (51), Bruce Edwardes (54), John Donovan (58), Anna Gobbo (Miscamble 82), Jack Radik (69), Brian Agnew (72), Mark Francis (72), Andrew McColl (74), Sita Matthews (Harrison 82), Robert Chilman (79), Stephen Hledik (83) and Richard Temperly (05).

REUNIONS & DINNERS

Class of 2004 – 10 Year Reunion

Rivka Lloyd (Figg)

Sunshine Coast Event

Perth Event

We gathered on Sunday 26 October on a beautifully warm day for the annual Sunshine Coast luncheon at Flaxton Gardens in the gorgeous Sunshine Coast hinterland.

Director of Alumni Relations, Mandy Loomes, spoke to us about the new Head of School, the happenings at Barker today and its future direction. Alumni in attendance were Brian Allen (53), Phil Benjamin (61), Charles Carmichael (58), Don Carmichael (67), David Coffey (71), Robert Cole (65), Richard Crickmore (55), John Grigg (59), Alistair Heron (63), Mark Hurrey (75), Peter Hurrey (75), Peter Maidens (54), Peter McCall (60), Heath McIntosh (93), Roger Marriott (55), Sam Ponder (75), Colin Rankin (60), Mark Walsh (69), Denver Webb (59) and Michael Wilson (45).

On Saturday 18 October we met at the home of Tom and Kay Hargreaves for our annual Perth dinner. Despite the very wet and windy weather, we enjoyed the opportunity to share with Barker’s new Head, Phillip Heath and Director of Alumni Relations, Mandy Loomes, our school stories and personal journeys since leaving the School. Alumni in attendance were Ian Grant (50), Alan MacFarlane (62), Drury Heath (65), Michele Thomas (Cook 76), Ian Christian (69), Tom Hargreaves (69), Mark Smith (71), Peter Cruickshank (84) and Medon Loupis (87). Unfortunately quite a number of our regular attendees couldn’t make it this time as they were travelling, but we look forward to seeing them when we meet again in 2015.

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015 51

OBA GROUPS

OBA GROUPS— Barker Old Girls Hockey Games start for the season on 12 April. Training is on Bowman at the beginning of March on Wednesday evenings.

We will have a team in Division A and Division C. All are welcome to play! Please email bogshockey@ hotmail.com for more information.

Breeana Taylor (04)

—Above Clint Harwood (00) and Aras Labutis (00) in action against Hunters Hill

BOBs Rugby The newly elected BOBRUFC Committee has been hard at work preparing for the 2015 Suburban Rugby Competition season, which will be contested in Division 2 (Barraclough Cup) and fielding four grade teams and one colts team.

—Above BOGS Hockey Team

After spending a few months away with girlfriends, wives and summer friends, Barker Old Boys pre-season was quickly upon us. With some players tipping the scales

the 2014/15 season thus far. We are pleased to qualify in second

(05) put everyone through their paces with some gruelling

position (out of 22 clubs) for the City and Suburban Jack Pace

pre-season sessions. It was fantastic to see a combination of

Memorial Shield Competition final series. In the quarter-final,

new and old players alike pushing each other to the limits

we beat Cricketers Club of NSW on Barker No.1 Oval and for our

in the warm February sun.

next game we play Zingari in the semi-final.

There have been many great individual performances this

Bathurst Bulldogs, BOBRUFC backed up again with another

season, but none better than Tom Burnett (05). He scored 111

scintillating tour of the V8 capital of Australia. A good time

not out against Sydney University Cricket Club on 1 February

was had, with some excellent rugby being played by both

and has been the standout batsman for the competition this

teams and a jovial evening enjoyed by all. This is certainly a

year, amassing 356 runs in seven matches, with an incredible

tour which BOBRUFC would like to continue in the future.

average of 178!

Our Season will kick off with a home game against THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

The Barker Old Boys Cricket Club has enjoyed some success in

slightly above playing weight, head coach Nick Hensley

After the success of last year’s tour to play the

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Barker Old Boys Cricket

If the summer of cricket has inspired you to make a

Newport on 11 April and we hope to produce some excellent

return to the game, please contact us. Our fixtures are usually

results throughout the first half of the season.

scheduled on Sunday afternoons and all matches are on turf

We will continue our good form over the coming months as

wickets. Our website is www.bobscc.com and we are available

we plan to procure some silverware come late August.

on Facebook.

For up to date information on fixtures and results, please visit our website www.bobsrugby.com.

Martin Donaldson (00) BOBRUFC President

Matt Hall (00) Club Captain 0416 297 775 hall_matt@bigpond.com

OBA GROUPS

Barker Old Boys Football Club Barker Old Boys Football Club is now into its 25th season and planning is in motion to make 2015 the Club’s biggest and best year yet. The regular season kicks off on Saturday 11 April for the men, and Sunday 12 April for the women’s competition, but pre-season training is well underway.

This year should be another fantastic year for the Club, with a range of activities planned. The season launch function will take place at the Crows Nest Hotel on Saturday 11 April, followed by regular player of the month drinks throughout the season and many other social activities!

The Club has expanded greatly over the past few years and this season we will field over 100 players, with a total of seven teams, two of which make their very long (1997) awaited return to the Premier League. Four other teams will compete in the Division 5 and 6 competitions, and the Women’s All Age team will return to Division 3 after their successful promotion from last year.

Games in the Men’s competition are played within the North Shore area on Saturdays (some Sunday games) at 1pm and 3pm. Games in the Women’s competition are played on Sundays at either 1pm or 3pm, also in the North Shore area.

We’re always looking for more players and there’s still

—Above Club President Peter Gregory (03) networking with Socceroos 1974 World Cup Coach Rale Rasic.

Peter Gregory (03) Barker Old Boys Football Club President 0400 419 253 peter.gregory11@gmail.com www.facebook.com/bobsfc

plenty of time to register with the Club for the 2015 season.

Please contact me via the details provided below. Check out and ‘Like’ our Facebook page for more information!

OBA Athletics Club In his most recent visit to Australia, Usain Bolt was quoted as saying, “with the controversy currently surrounding the athletics world, it is nice to know that there are still some people out there keeping it real”. Not a truer word could be said about the OBAC, where the simple yet effective mantra of ‘you have to be in it to win it’ shines like a light in the darkness.

The season is halfway through and people are running some quick times, particularly Andrew Malpass (06), who was ranked in the top 30 athletes nationally in the 100m. We are keen to get more people coming along to training and competition. Past and current students are welcome. We train at Barker on Mondays and Homebush on Wednesdays and Thursdays, starting at 5.45 pm. For more details, contact Glen Parker glen@retailsystems.com.au Tim Willatt (07)

OBA Big Band

Luke Davis (09)

—Above Performing at the OBA Annual dinner.

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

The OBA Big Band is back and groovin’ at the start of the new year. It feels as if the band has doubled in size now that our 2014 musician graduates have joined the crew. We will be working towards perfecting our most challenging piece to date, a 12-minute long composition

by Belgian composer Bert Joris. Aside from rehearsing, our long-term goals are to record and perform in the local community.

OBA_bigband@barker.nsw.edu.au

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OBA GROUPS

OBA GROUPSCONTINUED — We are thrilled to have Gretel bringing a fresh, innovative take on Williamson’s 80s classic. Dealing with the ever-present Melbourne-Sydney feud as well as the social and economic price-tag of a glittering harbour view, Emerald City is a play with rapid-paced dialogue, absolute dynamite one-liners and issues which remain as socially relevant in 2015 as they were in the late 80s.

OBA Theatre OBAT’s 2015 season was launched at the end of January. It was a spectacular evening, with the announcement that our 2015 play will be David Williamson’s Emerald City, which will be directed by the wonderful Gretel Maltabarow (09). Talented Barker alumni will be returning to the Barker stage once again!

For those who were able to join us at our launch and register their interest, we will be sending an audition pack for you to look through shortly. For those who weren’t able to join us but are interested in being involved, either on or off the stage, simply email gretelmalt@gmail.com with your details and whether you’re interested in a cast or creative role (such as set design, music or crew).

As always, if you’d like to get in touch please email us at obatheatre@live.com. We look forward to seeing you there!

Amie McNee (10) and Cassandra Jones (10) Presidents, OBAT

Barker Old Girls Netball Club After much anticipation and a rush to get our club together in time for the Hills District Netball Association Summer Competition, Barker Old Girls Netball is up and running! We received a huge response from the Barker alumni and have a fantastic team of enthusiastic girls playing. Such was the response that we hope to have two or three teams playing in the upcoming winter competition. Although our first game didn’t produce the result we would have liked, we got the opportunity to see where our strengths lie and have laid plans for the year ahead. As we grow as a club, we hope to include as many girls as possible. If you wish to play, please email barkeroldgirlsnetball@ gmail.com or ‘Like’ our Facebook page, Barker Old Girls Netball. Thanks to everyone for helping us in getting Barker Old Girls Netball off the ground.

Lauren Kirkby (07) Co-President

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

Kurrajong Society

54

At the 2014 Valedictory dinner, the Society presented our new members with a Welcome gift of Kurrajong chocolates and an invitation to stay connected to Barker. We look forward to seeing many of you at some of Barker’s upcoming events, such as the Barker Red, Barker Swings and BCCU Ceremonial Parade.

In March, the Kurrajong members were entertained again by the superb talent of the Music Department at Symphony Under the Stars. With the special seating for Kurrajong members, it made for a memorable evening.

Keep updated on what else is happening at Barker in our regular newsletter Kurrajong News. Contact us at kurrajong@ barker.nsw.edu.au Anne Turkington

—Above Ready for our first game.

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES— He became Chairman of the Electricity Commission, a board member of Lend Lease, a director of County NatWest, and was on numerous other boards including the Brain Foundation and Cardiac Technology, and was Chairman of Aussat.

In 1980 he was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia in recognition of services to Industry. In 2000 he received the CSIRO Chairman’s Medal for Business Excellence and in 2003 was

California, Oregon and Washington.

Greg worked in the oil industry for thirty-five years. He was a successful geologist with a thorough knowledge of the oil reservoirs and tectonics in California.

Greg died on 31 December and is survived by his wife Laurie; and his children Amber, Kyle, Dana, Travis and Molly.

a recipient of the Centenary Medal.

Don died on 23 October and is survived by his wife Barbara, daughter Jacqui and his nieces and nephews.

1945-2014

Donald Douglas Brown AO (40)

Greg Nelson Hummel (74)

1924-2014

1956-2014

Don Brown, late of Milsons Point, New South Wales, attended Barker from 1936–1940 as a boarder. His brothers Graham (37, deceased) and Spencer (39, deceased); and nephews Stephen (78), Andrew (Graham) (82), Ian (83), Glen (84) and Neil (86) and niece Suzanne (83) were also Barker students.

Don was very active in his School life at Barker. He played cricket and football, was a member of the diving and swimming teams, won the HP Walker Australian History Prize, was on the editorial committee for the College

Barry Webb, late of Upper Coomera, Queensland, attended Barker from 1954–1961 as a boarder. His brothers Graham (64) and Peter (69) were also Barker students.

At Barker, Barry was part of the School trip to Heron Island and enjoyed playing rugby.

Barry operated his family business of home furnishings with his wife and two of his sons for many years and was active in his local district activities.

Barry passed away after a long illness and is sadly missed.

Barry is survived by his wife of 46 years, Lorraine; four sons; seven grandchildren; four brothers and two sisters.

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

Barker and was a Sergeant in the Cadet Unit. In 1939 he played the Bad Man in The Man In The Bowler Hat, was dux in 1937 and 1939, and a prefect. In 1940 he was in the Rugby 1XV (Colours) and the Cricket 1XI. After Barker, Don graduated with honours in Chemistry at Sydney University and then obtained his PhD at London University.

During his time at CSR, Don rose to become one of CSR’s Deputy General Managers and an Executive Director.

He was instrumental in bringing the Mount Newman Project into being in Western Australia and became responsible for CSR’s iron ore interests and Managing Director of Pilbara Iron Limited.

Greg Hummel, late of California, USA, attended Barker from 1966–1968.

His brothers William (67, deceased), Frederick (70) and Jay (72), were also Barker students.

During his time at the School, Greg was a keen swimmer and athlete. He also played rugby in the Junior 1XV and was part of the 1968 undefeated team.

Greg and his family returned to Southern California, where he completed his schooling. He graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a degree in Geology and then completed a Masters degree at the University of Colorado Boulder.

In 1977, Greg was one of the first people to walk the Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada across

Barry Neil Webb (63)

55

OBITUARIES THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

OBITUARIES—

56

Neil John Gorman (68)

Peter James Maynard (86)

1951-2014

1968-2014

Neil Gorman, late of Abermain, New South Wales, attended Barker from 1966-1968.

Whilst at School, Neil was an NCO in the Cadet Unit; played tennis; and was a member of both the athletics and chess teams. In 1968 he was awarded the Commonwealth University Scholarship.

After Barker, Neil attended Sydney University, graduating with Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws in 1977.

He worked as a solicitor with a legal firm in Glen Innes, before establishing his legal practice in 1979 in Gunnedah as sole practitioner, Neil J Gorman and Associates. He closed the legal practice in 1982 and moved to Penrith working for Public Prosecutions.

Neil joined Rotary wherever he lived and later became involved in sales and marketing with Rotary International, publishing the Rotary Magazine. He placed a great emphasis on service and always assisted organisations he became involved with, writing constitutions and sharing his legal knowledge.

In 1996, he was President of Lane Cove Rotary and had the achievement of setting up the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation, with which he was involved for many years.

Neil liked all sports, but cricket and rugby league became his obsession.

In 1999 Neil married Lynda Mary and moved to the Hunter Valley, where they established their company, GEM Australia.

He also ran a program, Reminiscing, on the community radio station CHR. Neil’s life passion however was politics. In 2008 he was nominated as an independent councillor on Cessnock Council and in 2012 he unsuccessfully sought election as Mayor of Cessnock.

He then joined the National Party in his push to enter Federal Parliament. He then joined the Palmer United Party and in September 2013 stood for the seat of Parkes, losing by a narrow margin.

Neil died on 12 September and is survived by his wife Lynda Mary and

Peter Maynard, late of Castaways

father Ray.

opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Beach, Queensland, attended Barker from 1976-1986. His father David (53) and brother John (82) were also Barker students.

Peter entered fully into the life of the School. He was a good footballer and captained two teams in successive years. He captained the squash team, played basketball and was a member of the athletics team. He was a competent swimmer. Peter was involved in Drama and the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme.

After School, Peter worked in the hospitality industry, training at the Sydney Hilton and the Sebel Town House hotels. He also worked at Elanora Golf Club. Twelve years ago he and his family moved to Queensland and Castaways Beach, where he indulged in his great love of surfing. He worked at Lindoni’s on Hastings Street, Noosa, for most of this time. His greatest love was reserved for his wife and children. He was a very popular and highly respected member of his local community.

Peter died on 24 August 2014 in a surfing accident. He is survived by his wife, Kylie; his children, Max, Poppy and Lexie; his mother and father Natalie and David; his brother John; and sisters, Catherine and Jane.

George Vivian Roberts CBE (32) 1915-2015

George Roberts, late of Townsville, Queensland, attended Barker from 1931–1932 as a boarder. His father George (1902, deceased) and brothers, Ian (34, deceased) and Graham (37, deceased) were also Barker students.

George was very busy during his time at Barker. He was a prefect and played cricket (colours) and rugby, and was involved in athletics, debating and cadets.

In 1932, George and the other students travelled into the city to witness the

In 1938 he qualified and was admitted as a solicitor, which was predestined, as his father wanted all his sons to be lawyers to ensure fourth and fifth generation Roberts family law practice. He was then employed in the firm of Roberts Leu & North, of which his father was a partner.

George served in the Australian Army in the 31/51st Battalions in WWII in Dutch New Guinea and Bougainville, and at the end of the war he was sent to Nauru to repossess the island.

On 28 June 1941 George married Dalva Hack. They made Townsville their home and went on to have four children.

They celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary in 2001. Apart from his two years of school at Barker and his years of active service, he spent all of his nearly 100 years in Townsville, where he influenced the lives of many.

In 1946 George became a member of the North Queensland Club and its President in 1969, just like his father and grandfather before him. He was Deputy Mayor on the Council and a long-serving alderman for many years and in 1981 was awarded the Commander (Civil) of the British Empire in the Queen’s Birthday Honours. He was Deputy Chancellor of James Cook University, Chancellor of the Anglican Diocese of North Queensland and served on the committees of several other local organisations. He was a

OBITUARIES

great visionary and campaigner.

He had an active role in the

he was appointed the Curate in Charge

(04) and Rebecca (05) were also Barker

for the Provisional District of Pittwater.

students.

establishment of the Good Shepherd

He married Gloria in January 1952

Home, of which he was chairman for

and in 1955 the family left to serve in

25 years. In 1999, a 64-place high care

Tanganyika, later known as Tanzania, for

facility was opened there, called George

10 years. Ken and his family returned to

Roberts House in his honour.

Australia and he was appointed General

George retired from Roberts Leu &

Secretary to the Church Missionary

At Barker, Max was a Lance Corporal in the Cadet Unit.

After graduating from Barker with his Leaving Certificate, Max joined the Australian Navy for two years, serving on The Hobart and being a part of the

North at the end of 1984 but remained

Society New South Wales. He was Rector

as a consultant until 1993. In retirement,

of St Michael’s, Vaucluse, and in 1975 was

George and Dal travelled widely, both in

consecrated the Bishop of Wollongong.

worked as a Jackaroo at Gunningbar

Australia and overseas, and also enjoyed

During this time he was also the Major

before basing himself at Woolbrook. Here

gardening.

General in charge of the Anglican

Max started his own bulldozer business.

Chaplains of the Australian Defence

Then, with his father, he established

survived by his children Susan, David,

Force. He was then Bishop of Parramatta

Woolbrook Rural Industries, gradually

Richard, Helen and their families.

1982-89 and concurrently as the first

building up a turkey-raising and farming

Bishop to the Army, Navy and Air Force

business, which grew to be the second

George died on 11 January and is

Kenneth Herbert Short AO (44)

1979-89. In 1989 he was made Dean of

1927-2014

St Andrew’s Cathedral School, Sydney.

In 1982 he welcomed Queen Elizabeth II to the Cathedral on her state visit.

He retired from active ministry in 1992

biggest employer in the district.

In 1970 Max went on the road as a truck salesman, selling the 1418 Mercedes Benz truck. He had

but continued ministry both interstate

tremendous success and worked his

and overseas.

way up to be the General Manager for

In 1988, Ken was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia,

Mercedes Commercial Vehicles in NSW. Max spent the last 30 years in

General Division, for services to

Woolbrook. He wrote a weekly column in

Religion and the Australian Defence

the Merriwa Ringer on a range of topics

Force. In 1989 he was made a Chaplain

including politics, science and agriculture.

of the Order of St John.

In his retirement Ken enjoyed his interests in carpentry, fishing, photography and bird watching. He Ken Short, late of Kiama, New South

and Gloria moved to Kiama. Here,

Wales, attended Barker from 1936-1943.

Ken became the Chaplain of the

His brother Stephen (40, deceased)

occupying forces in Japan. He then

Kiama/Jamberoo Sub-Branch of the

Max died on 6 September 2014 and is survived by his wife Elizabeth; his children Jenny, John, Beth and Sue; and his grandchildren.

John Sidney Morris

RSL. He prepared and conducted all

1923-2014

Ken participated in athletics and played

the Remembrance and ANZAC Day

John Morris, late of Banora Point, New

cricket in the 2nd XI.

Services, during which he formally

South Wales, was a Junior School

took the salute from the marching

teacher at Barker from 1951–1967. His

veterans.

sons Timothy (69) and Anthony (74)

After Barker, Ken worked for the Commonwealth Bank and at age 18, he enlisted in the Australian Infantry

Ken died on 19 October and is

Force and served with the British

survived by his wife Gloria; children

Commonwealth Occupying Force in

Kathy, David and Marion; eight

Japan 1946-1948.

grandchildren and one great-grandson.

He worked during the day and studied for his Leaving Certificate at night to be

Max Edmund Kingsbury Wurcker (44)

ready for entry into Moore Theological

1927-2014

College. He was ordained as a Curate

Max Wurcker, late of Merriwa, attended

in 1952 and served for four months at

Barker from 1938–1944 as a boarder. His

St Clements, Mosman. Following that

son John (76), and granddaughters Sara

were Barker students.

He was affectionately remembered as ‘Beakie’ by many former students.

Among his many interests, he was a TV quiz show champion.

John died on 2 December and is survived by his sons Tim and Peter.

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

was also a Barker student. At School,

57

PERSONAL NOTES

PERSONAL NOTES— Donald Michell (64) was judged

Rod Sims (70) is now semi-retired

Phillip Cook (98) married Samantha

Queensland’s Professional Truck

and living in a small community on

Ridgewell in the Chapel at the

Driver of the Year in 2003 and was also

the NSW North Coast. He enjoys being

Intercontinental Resort, Coral Coast, Fiji

acknowledged for his dedication in

creative with digital photos as well as

on 19 April 2014. His attendants included

helping disadvantaged and homeless

woodworking, large building projects,

former Barker friends, Kinsey Cotton,

teenagers for the past 25 years. Don finds

home renovations and travel.

Michael Pearce, Jon Sinclair (all 99).

it rewarding helping struggling families, offering them shelter, food, and moral and financial support.

Cathy Duncan (86), after working at Mona Vale and then Shoalhaven Hospitals as a social worker for a number of years, Cathy moved to Hobart and then Canberra to work for the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing in aged care and rural health policy and program development. She is now back

Phillip’s brother, Andrew, also attended the Sandy Swanton (80) moved to

wedding having flown from London.

Florence, Italy, in October 2013, to teach Business English and pursue writing and

Francis Bright (81) has just moved

photography. After more than a decade of

to Darwin after 12 years in Kununurra

working in government communications

WA, working as the regional agricultural

in Canberra and Western Canada

economist. He is now the economics

(Calgary and Vancouver), she finds

Catch-up leader for Northern Territory Department

the light in Florence and pace of life

of Primary Industry and Fisheries

there intoxicating. The food and wine,

(NTDPIF) delivering practical economic

countryside, people, art, culture, history

analysis. Francis enjoys the coastal

and language are pretty good too!

weather as it’s cooler than Kununurra.

He still lives in a two bedroom tacklebox

on the south coast of NSW and works

with two boats, two dogs and a sense

as a researcher at the Australian Health

of humour.

Services Research Institute at Wollongong University.

Cathy surfed competitively for many years and competed in the NSW State Surfing

Catch-up

Titles twice. She was a member of Christian Surfers International and surfed in Fiji, Tonga, Bali, Hawaii and the Maldives.

Cathy retired from competitive surfing due to injury but still surfs occasionally.

David Treloar (72), Ian Campbell and Stewart Horne (72) recently caught up for a cup of coffee.

Cathy spends most of her free time horse riding and still keeps in touch with Andrew Munro (86) and Dave Ball (87).

Award Yvonne Low (79) is an old girl and local Wahroonga artist. She was awarded the Art on Loftus Most Outstanding – Open Award for THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

a mixed media painting on Friday 21 November. The top prize of

58

$1,000 was awarded to Yvonne by the AOL judge and award-winning artist, Lyndsey Hatchwell. Lyndsey described Yvonne’s winning entry as a work that, “caught my eye immediately. (It was a) lovely flowing composition with skilled use of mixed media. Great atmosphere.”

Yvonne has been working predominantly in watercolour, but decided to experiment with acrylic and oil pastels alongside her favourite medium. Using the Blue Mountains as her inspiration, she created a piece with light playing on water in a valley glen. Yvonne continues to write and illustrate, creating children’s books, and her work can be seen at www.yvonnelow.com.

PERSONAL NOTES

Award Arthur Hunt (59) was presented with The Livingstone Shire Australia Day Citizen of the Year Award. Arthur has spent 18 years as a volunteer for the Capricorn Coast Community. He is best known for his outstanding work with the Coast Guard and is involved with community events such as Australia Day, Anzac Day, Emergency Services Day and Festival of the Wind. Arthur volunteers in excess of 40 hours a week and is an outstanding role model for all members of the community.

Australia Day Honours 2015

Baptisms 23 November 2014 Zoe Audrey, daughter of Hayley (Woods 00) and Jason Gatt 23 November 2014

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

Harry Anthony, son of Nicky

David Coffey (43), for significant service to engineering, particularly in the areas of environmental and geotechnical investigation, to business,

(99)

and to tertiary education.

(Keevy 01) and Steve Beland 13 December 2014 Chelsea Lily, daughter of Kim Pluess (99) and Stephen Timm

14 December 2014 Zara Jane and Chloe Marguerite, daughters of Sally (Collins) and Tim Filtness

Eve Sheppard and Guy Sheppard (62, deceased), for service to the community through fundraising support for mental health organisations.

Geoffrey Sutherland, Barker College Council 1978-1990, for service to engineering, and to education.

Weddings

Alverna ‘Dusty’ Walkom, wife of Philip Walkom (67), for service to the community of Taree.

31 January 2015 Imogen Seymour and Benjamin Davis (09)

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

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

59

INVITATION

1890-2015

Celebrating of Barker Collegewith Regional

Events in Australia and Overseas

Besides the OBA events being held at Barker College to celebrate the 125th Anniversary this year, there will also be alumni events throughout Australia and overseas: Events in Australia include: Tamworth, Perth, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Canberra, Central Coast, Northern Rivers and Melbourne.

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

Several overseas events are also being planned, including Hong Kong, Singapore, London and New York.

60

These events provide a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this anniversary and connect with the Barker community in your area. Dates already confirmed are listed on the back cover. To keep up to date with the event calendar, connect with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/barkercollegealumni or through the OBA website, oba.net.au If you would like a personalised invitation, please confirm your contact details with the Director of Alumni Relations, Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au.

Please let us know if you are living in a different location to your Barker mailing address.

OBA EVENTS

You are invited to join us for our

Alumni Networking Breakfast When: Friday 15 May Time: 7.15am – 8.30am Where: The Menzies Hotel Hobart Room, 14 Carrington St, Sydney Cost: $40 per person Topic: Making LinkedIn work for you Speaker: Kim McGuinness (84), founder and Managing Director of Mentor Central LinkedIn has quickly become an essential tool for business. However, it is easy to create a profile, connect with a few colleagues and then forget about it. What happens to that profile once a strategy is applied? Could LinkedIn become the springboard for a supercharged and responsive business network? Join Kim McGuinness for an interactive and energising discussion on the benefits of LinkedIn and how to make it really work for you. Understand why your branding on LinkedIn is so important, how to structure your profile for success and how to be found by the right people, for the right reasons. Discover who to connect with and when to connect with people you don’t know.

Learn how groups work and how you can make them work for you.

RSVP by 6 May 2015 at www.barker.nsw.edu.au and click on the payment option to book this OBA event.

Any enquiries please contact Mandy Loomes on 02 9847 8229 or mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

40 Years of Girls Cocktail Party ‘a walk down memory lane’ The Old Barker Association has much pleasure in inviting you to join them for a walk down memory lane.

So we can compile our photo story commemorating 40 years of girls, please scan your favourite photo and email it to mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au Enquiries: Mandy Loomes 9847 8229 or mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

THE OLD BARKER | Autumn 2015

When: Friday 29 May Time: 7pm to 10pm Where: The Marks Pavilion, Barker College Cost: $40 per person, includes Canapés, drinks and a special celebratory gift RSVP: 15 May 2015 at www.barker.nsw.edu.au and click on the Payment option to book this OBA Event

61

BARKER ALUMNI EVENTS 2015— Class Reunions

OBA Events

Regional Events

2000 – 15 Year Reunion Sat 2 May

OBA Committee Meeting Tues 12 May

Hong Kong Fri 24 April

WILL YOU BE ATTENDING YOUR CLASS REUNION?

Hayley Gatt (Woods) 0413 456 834 woods_h@hotmail.com

Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

Brayden Winkler (07) brayden.winkler@gmail.com

1995 – 20 Year Reunion Sat 16 May

OBA Theatre Production Wed 8, Fri 10 and Sat 11 July

Not sure whether anything is being planned? Please contact Karina Drummond in the Alumni Office, Karina_ Drummond@barker.nsw.edu.au or 02 9847 8283.

Dimity Brown (Macleod) 0412 926 500 dimity.brown@bigpond.com

Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

1975 – 40 Year Reunion Sat 8 August

OBA AGM & Committee Meeting Tues 21 July

Lez Cheung 0416 127 103 lezcheung@gmail.com

Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

1980 – 35 Year Reunion Sat 15 August

OBA Golf Day Tues 15 September

David McGinley 0419 433 708 david@conceptpartners.com

Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

Robyn Kendall 0418 263 227 robyndkendall@gmail.com

OBA Committee Meeting Tues 13 October

Murray Hartin 0419 606 116 muz@murrayhartin.com

Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

Martin Rodgers 0412 642 561 martin@ahl.net.au

OBA Annual Dinner Fri 6 November

Canberra Fri 20 November

1965 – 50 Year Reunion Sat 12 September

Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

Andrew McColl (74) 0422 985 281 mccoll@grapevine.net.au

James Humphery 0416 021 915 james_humphery@huntsman.com

Over 70s Events

Doug Spencer 0404 888 085 DSpencer@millernoyce.com.au 1985 – 30 Year Reunion Sat 17 October

Back to Barker Day Wed 20 May Bob Hill (56) (02) 9144 3582 bob.hill@optusnet.com.au

James Hopkin 0402 831 356 james@hopkin.com.au

Over 70s/Leslie’s Men Lunch/ Rugby and AGM Sat 8 August

1970 – 45 Year Reunion Sat 24 October

Bob Hill (56) (02) 9144 3582 bob.hill@optusnet.com.au

Jack Brislee 0411 648 217 prbb@bigpond.net.au

Grange Visit Wed 21 October

Phil Montgomery 0449 545 954 philnmont@gmail.com

Bob Hill (56) (02) 9144 3582 bob.hill@optusnet.com.au

Singapore Sat 25 April Carly Switzer (94) carlyswitzer@yahoo.com.au

PRIVACY London Sat 13 June

Due to changes in Privacy Legislation we are required to Annette French (Slattery 88) inform you that your contact annette.e.french@sky.com details may be shared with OBA reunion organisers with the Tamworth strict guidelines that they are Fri 24 July only to be used for the purposes Richard Webb (67) of organising your OBA reunion.

0419 616 654 Please contact the Alumni Office

if you wish to keep your details Perth private.

Sat 10 October Tom Hargreaves (69) tom.hargreaves@inpex.com.auz Sunshine Coast Sun 25 October Phil Benjamin (61) pandj.benjamin@bigpond.com

PHOTOS Photos from your event may be posted on the OBA Website (www.oba.net.au) and the Alumni Facebook page (www.facebook. com/barkercollegealumni) and in The Barker magazine. For further queries please contact the Alumni Office.

We are also planning events for Melbourne, Brisbane, Central Coast, Northern Rivers and New York, USA. Regional events provide a great opportunity to connect with members of the Barker community in your area.

Please send your contact details to Mandy_ Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au if you are living in a different location to your Barker mailing address so we can invite you too!