Thebarker111

Winter 2016 Issue 111 ISSN: 2204-938X

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The Opening of the Sue Field Room

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Barker Redbacks competing on the world stage

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zSpace: Virtual Reality throughout Barker

CONTENTS

FROM THE HEAD

INSIDE THIS ISSUE The Regulars 06 Prep School 08 Junior School 14 Middle and Senior School 24 Drama 30 Sport 39 The Old Barker

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Mr Phillip Heath Head of Barker College

Preview

Alumni Profile

The Features 04 The opening of the Sue Field Room 12 Barker Redbacks competing on the world stage 16 zSpace: Virtual Reality throughout Barker

12 Steam/ Robotics

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s we enter the year’s midway point, it’s good to see that not only the students are growing in academic and sporting stature. Plans for the School’s infrastructure are, too.

The School Council has been involved closely with these plans, defining specific projects and creating the broad schedule and budgets for them. Working groups of staff and consultants have prepared thorough design briefs for these projects. Here is a snapshot of what they are working on.

Barker Oval seating:

We are working on the designs for extra seating on the north-east corner of No. 1 Oval, so that our Senior School students can relax during recess and lunch breaks. The additional seating will also help during large home fixtures and events on the Main Oval. We will soon lodge a DA with Hornsby Shire Council and hope to start work late in Term 3.

The new space will be ready for the 2017 academic year.

Preparatory School: The permanent Prep School building will be constructed on the outdoor basketball courts next to the Multi-Purpose Hall on the Junior School site. Junior School staff have been working with the architects to conceive a two-stream facility that will accommodate Pre-K to Year 2. It will also have common areas, creative spaces, additional parking and playgrounds suitable for younger learners. I am pleased to say that the initial concepts are very exciting. We hope to lodge a DA and start building early in 2017. Works should take around 12 months to complete.

Issue 111 Winter 2016 The Barker is the quarterly magazine of Barker College

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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Annual Camp 2016

Extensions to the Centenary Design and Technology Centre: Extending the D&T Centre will provide much-needed extra space for Design and Visual Arts, in place of the four demountable classrooms currently used. The new permanent facilities will cater to emerging technologies and potentially an array of new subjects. Planning has already begun, and the new facility will be built north of The Avenue next to the existing building.

The Barker College Masterplan takes shape

Sports Hall: The new Barker Sports Hall will be located south of The Avenue. This extensive project will provide on-site indoor sports and recreation facilities, additional classrooms, parking and hospitality. We are now refining the Working Group’s detailed brief for the architects, and hope to lodge the DA early in 2017. We imagine that it will take 12-18 months to complete the building work for this complex and substantial project.

Leslie Hall: As our largest space for functions and lectures, Leslie Hall is an important space for the life of the whole School – and is well due for a refresh. With the kind assistance of the BCMA, we intend to replace the seats and install air conditioning here as soon as practicable. The BCMA has generously agreed to make this project their fundraising target for 2016 and perhaps 2017, a commitment for which we are deeply grateful.

Leslie Hall honours the memory of our fourth Headmaster, Mr William (Bill) Leslie. Barker College owes much to Mr Leslie’s memory, given his role in establishing many of the School’s traditions and character. Refurbishing the hall is one way we can celebrate that contribution.

Funding the vision: Well, that’s quite a list of projects. How will it be resourced?

The School has been planning this for some years, and has carefully managed its funds accordingly. Projects such as The Prep School and Sports Hall will place some pressure on our financial planning. However, by allocating the building works over a protracted timeline we will maintain much control over the budget. We may launch a number of small capital appeals in the coming months or years, but we are realistic about the capacity of our present community to contribute more than the school fees demand.

I’m sure you are all just as excited to hear what’s been happening at the planning sessions of Council and Senior Staff, and look forward to updating you again in due course.

Peace Phillip Heath Head of Barker College

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

Editor-in-Chief Mr Phillip Heath

Mr Phillip Heath Head of Barker College

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FROM THE CHAIRMAN

FROM THE CHAPLAIN

Chairman’s Ian Miller Chairman

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the Christian basis from its very beginning.

The late 19th century was a time of great change, with many independent schools closing and with the state school system being established by the NSW Government.

Rev Plume’s step in opening a school was a bold one, and this vision has blessed many students over the 126 years of our history. To now share his vision for Christian education at Darkinjung Barker is a time of great rejoicing.

This is also the time to say thank you to all those who have generously donated to the establishment of this new campus, ensuring its continued viability. We also recognise the funding which has been provided by the Commonwealth and State Governments to support this new venture, as well as funding from the Association of Independent Schools, of which Barker College is a member. Ongoing financial donations will be crucial to maintaining and growing this new vision and campus.

As we enjoy the winter sports season, I encourage all to share in the great range of activities being undertaken by our students, as well as those organised by our parents and staff.

Thank you again for your ongoing commitment and support at Barker College.

Ian Miller Chairman

Cru: Students for Jesus,

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n almost every weekday at Barker, both students and Chaplaincy staff can be seen working together in partnership to live out the core vision of the voluntary Barker Christian student group, called Cru. Combining this celebration of the message and person of Jesus, with our love and passion for Barker, the phrase, “Students for Jesus and Barker” can be heard echoing around our Chaplaincy courtyard.

Last term saw over 100 students across the Middle and Senior Schools sing together as one body at events including Cru-United, Cru-Munion at Easter, and pack our Chaplaincy spaces for Courtyard Café.

Here, music, coffee and chilled conversations create an atmosphere that invites students from all spiritual backgrounds and views to experience the inclusivity at the heart of the Christian message.

Our vision inspires and motivates all our activities, but we have lifted our sights to ‘look beyond the Mint Gates’ and to ‘inspire Global Hope’. This term at Cru, we have taken our cue from Mr Heath and made our theme: ‘Hope for the World’. We are seeking to answer the question, ‘What role does Christianity have in bringing hope to the world?’ We want to partner with organisations like Fusion Hornsby, Simple Love and Open Doors. We want to understand how we can help bring hope to the poor, the unjustly treated and to refugees. We want to be impacted by God, to make a difference to this world. We now say at Cru: Students for Jesus, for Barker, for Global Hope.

Riley Spring and Kirsten Philips Youth Worker and Senior School Chaplain

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

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his year marks an historical moment for Barker College in establishing the separate Darkinjung Barker campus at Yarramalong, providing the opportunity for 25 Indigenous students to share in the wide range of educational offerings provided at Barker College. It has been tremendous to see the enthusiasm of these students and the opportunities for integrating them into our programs.

This historical step of opening a new campus provides an opportunity to reflect upon the history of the School itself, which was named after Bishop Frederic Barker. Bishop Barker was consecrated a Bishop in 1854, and served in Sydney’s Anglican Church in this role for over 25 years, from 1855 to 1880. He dedicated his life to serving not only the people of Sydney, but also of NSW and Queensland.

It was Bishop Barker who welcomed Reverend Henry Plume, the founder of Barker College, to Sydney. He provided Rev Plume with extended and gracious hospitality, allowing him to settle into life in Australia. The Rev Plume had originally come to Australia in 1878 to work with people in North Queensland. In 1888, he returned to Sydney and was offered the position of Minister in the Anglican Parish of Kurrajong. It was here that he started the Grammar School in 1890 which he named in honour of Bishop Barker, whose name we proudly bear today. He chose this name for many reasons. Bishop Barker had a house in Kurrajong to which he went regularly for rest; Rev Plume also wanted a name which reflected

Shared leadership at work: The leadership of Cru is shared among the Cru Captains, Hugo Hyde and Christina Kim, the Year 12 cohort, and the Chaplaincy staff. Everyone plays their part to make the weekly Cru and small groups happen, and to pull off incredible events like Courtyard Café.

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SUE FIELD PAVILION OPENING

DARKINJUNG

Left The snow peas are growing beautifully.

Above Autumn is here.

Clockwise from top left Chairman Ian Miller with Sue Field as the plaque in her name is unveiled; former headmaster Dr Kefford, one of three former heads who attended; the first function of the Sue Field room in full swing.

Sue Field It was with great celebration that many past and present members of the Barker College community came together for the official opening of the Sue Field Room of the Rosewood Pavilion on Rosewood Oval.

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In 2014, Mrs Field played a vital role in supporting the change in Head of Barker College, from Dr Kefford to Mr Heath. Since then, she has taken on a new role of developing and implementing strategic decisions at Barker, including our new campus at Yarramalong.

By naming the Sue Field Room in her honour, we formally recognise Mrs Field’s tremendous contribution to the School. The Rosewood Pavilion, which houses the Sue Field Room has been built to especially support girls’ sport at Barker College, an area in which Mrs Field has had a particular responsibility since 1975.

I was honoured indeed to attend the opening of the Sue Field Room on this very significant occasion, in the company of Mrs Field and Mr Heath. I hope the School community will feel equally honoured when they start to enjoy its use.

Ian Miller Chairman Barker College School Council

Autumn has arrived in beautiful Yarramalong Valley and we see the leaves turning from a lush green apple shade to a crispy reddish brown.

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he fog settles along the river and produces a chilly start to each day. The sun warms us as it glistens through the trees in midmorning, and the birds chirp away as we learn in the classroom.

In K-2, we have started our phonics program and are learning our sounds. Our group reading sessions are based around stories. So far this term, we have looked at Giraffes can’t dance and Noni the Pony. These lessons are designed to expose the children to different forms of literacy. Our Science and Technology unit, called Living Things, is continuing. We have been watching how a seed grows into a lovely plant.

Our Years 3-5 students have also been continuing on with Living Things. The class’ snow peas are growing beautifully. During class, we have learned about informative texts in preparation for NAPLAN. Part of our English program this term is the story My Place. We really enjoy reading this piece of Australian literature.

At the start of term, we discussed commemorative ceremonies that have taken place around the world.

We remembered the sacrifice that the Anzacs had given and had some in-depth group discussions. The children spoke of what Anzac Day meant to them and told of family members that serve in our military.

Last term, we participated in the Barker Athletics and Cross Country carnivals. The children thoroughly enjoyed competing and being part of our wider Barker community. Well done to all our students.

I encourage you to take a drive up here – you are always welcome to drop in for a cuppa. Life in the valley is one of peace and reflection.

Jamie Shackleton Darkinjung Barker Campus Coordinator

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

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his acknowledgement of Mrs Field’s 41-year contribution to Barker College brought together the current Head of Barker College, Mr Phillip Heath, and three former heads of the School – Mr Trevor McCaskill, Mr Neil Tucker and Dr Rod Kefford – as well as Rev J Griffith, my predecessor as Chairman of the Barker College School Council. Mrs Field has worked with each of the four Heads over her career.

Mrs Field joined the Barker College staff in 1975, the same year co-education began at the School.

She was initially appointed to ensure a smooth adjustment for the 59 girls and 130 boys at the centre of this dramatic change at Barker.

In addition to looking after the students, Mrs Field also taught Science and was engaged in many other school activities. With the appointment of Dr Kefford as Headmaster in 1996, Mrs Field was appointed Deputy Head. I had the pleasure of being a member of the School Council involved in selecting Mrs Field for this position.

Autumn in

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PREPARATORY SCHOOL

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

venture beyond Prep!

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of activities, spent time with their friends and learnt about Jesus through storytelling, singing and dance.

Each Friday morning, the Pre-K students attend Chapel in the Prep School. In the last week of term, Pre-K joined Kindergarten to Year 6 students at the Junior School end-of-term service at the Barker Memorial Chapel.

On the first day of Term 2, Pre-K attended the Anzac Service. The students sat quietly at the front of the gathering and participated by respectfully listening throughout the service.

We will continue to ensure that Pre-K students are able to participate in the significant events of the School year.

Sarah Dickson Head of Early Learning

Wonderings…

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Have you met our newest Prep friend?

This lizard was discovered in Term 1 by curious Kindergarten students. The students followed their lines of inquiry and discovered what species of lizard it was, why it was moulting, why it needs to hibernate and why it likes the sunny corners of the playground.

Wonderment is the key to inquiry. Children are full of questions and we want to foster their natural curiosity and give it wings! Not all questions have an answer but that doesn’t mean we should stop asking questions. By making connections we are learning. Inquiry learning is already growing legs from our Prep learners right up to Year 6.

Caroline Merrick Director of Primary Curriculum Pre K-6 (PYP Coordinator)

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

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his year so far has seen several events in which, for the first time in Barker history, four-year-olds have been involved. On their very first day at Barker, Pre-K students walked to the OBA Sound Stage to attend the whole-school welcome assembly. As a group they were introduced to the 2000-plus attendees, providing an historic moment for Barker and a lasting memory for them.

Pre-K also participated in the House Cross Country and Athletics Carnivals. The students represented their Houses by running 400m in the Cross Country and competing in Olympic-style track events at the Athletics Carnival. On both occasions, they were supported by Middle School seniors.

Towards the end of Term 1, Pre-K joined their Prep friends from Kindergarten to Year 2 in a Crusader-led day camp at the main campus. Pre-K enjoyed a variety

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JUNIOR SCHOOL

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Out of this World!

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The students were entranced as Mr Heath explained his masterplan for looking beyond the Mint Gates. Local, national, global and now intergalactic, “Barker College is truly out of this world,” Mr Heath told the students. The challenge for the day was to think like a scientist, to use inquiry thinking to find problems and to design scientific solutions that were innovative. It was STEAM education in action and with their Top Secret news, the students were jumping out of their skins to get started.

Left and above Our courageous astronauts; Mr Heath spells out his vision for Barker College.

Students had to think what problems would be posed by setting up a potential space campus for Year 5 students to visit for an extended stay. There were hundreds listed by the time we had finished.

The ability to generate ideas and be a problem finder, rather than just a problem solver, is supported in the literature describing best practice in inquiry learning.

“Students need to know how, out of everything that is possible to know or experience, to determine what is significant and worth pursuing.”

Simon Davidson, Taking the PYP Forward Research, collaboration, creative thinking, careful analysis and some expert design skills meant that by the end of the day, each pair of Year 5 students confidently presented a persuasive multimedia presentation that addressed their scientific problem.

Immersion into inquiry learning meant, I am sure, that our parents were equally confused about whether Barker College really will be going into space, s uch was the power of imaginative thinking and the ‘real’ experiences of our students that day.

At the day’s end, the boys were given the green light to share the Top Secret news with their families. One said that he felt reluctant to release the news for fear that Knox might reach space first.

Another said, “At first I thought that we would never be able to create a campus in space, but now I think anything’s possible!” What a powerful learning experience.

The journey of inquiry is underway.

Importantly, our wonderful students and inspiring staff were highly engaged in the learning.

As the research highlights: “Teachers influence the problems that are posed through engaging students with specific materials and experiences as well as by determining the understandings at the centre of a particular unit of inquiry.” Simon Davidson, Taking the PYP Forward.

This was certainly evident in our Year 5 Science and Technology unit, and we look forward to our next mission on our journey of inquiry.

Caroline Merrick Director of Primary Curriculum PreK-6 (PYP Coordinator)

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

he Term 1 Science and Technology unit that Year 5 were studying was from the new Australian curriculum and addressed the outcome: The Earth is part of a system of planets orbiting around a star (the sun). For six weeks, they asked and investigated scientific questions while referring to technology. The new syllabus requires students to plan and implement a design process, selecting a range of tools, equipment, materials and techniques to produce solutions that address the design criteria and identify constraints.

And in space, the greatest constraints are gravity, temperature and frequent sunrises.

To the pumping music of the Star Wars theme tune, the new astronauts exited the lift and walked through the Year 5 common area. You may possibly recognise some of them.

Thinking and imagination soared sky-high in the Junior School in Term 1, when Mr Heath and some new astronauts launched our Working Technologically Inquiry Incursion Day in the Copeland Building.

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TEACHING AND LEARNING

teaching of techniques necessary to

of the curriculum over the coming

craft of Shakespeare, Barker

write for different purposes.

year. As we strive to lift the academic

College continues to consider

4. Teach students to become fluent

writing at the various stage levels

achievement and communication

the core features of quality

with handwriting, sentence

skills of all students, ongoing reflection,

learning as we navigate our

construction, typing and word

feedback and refinement will be major

way through curriculum

processing. This may combine

components in this process.

change, assessment

with competent writing grip and

Writing will become a dualistic

modification and new approaches to

letter formation, correct spelling of

teaching and learning.

words, construction of sentences for

based operation and command

meaning, fluency and style, and the

to complete online tasks and the

foregrounds a shared perception

functional and the fluent use of word

capacity in students to handwrite and

between parents and their children.

processors for composition.

communicate personally.

The notion of ‘What is learning?’

This journey needs to be communicated, understood and accepted by all so that

function, requiring both the technology-

5. Create an engaged community

The email, text message and tweet

of writers. In this way, teachers

might be used daily for communication

the learning experience has common

participate with their students

around the globe, but sharing opinions,

ground.

and share their writing, students

insights and knowledge using more

have writing choice and students

established formats is equally

collaborate as writers and have

important.

Our recent Professional Learning Day brought the School’s whole teaching staff together to share, explore and dream about the future of writing at Barker from Pre-K through Year 12.

Writing is a fundamental skill and an inherent part of the learning journey. Yet, the increasing emphasis on technology and other stimuli often means that time once devoted to writing has diminished.

While students must

Barker College is fortunate

And as imagination bodies forth The forms of things unknown, the poet’s pen Turns them to shapes and gives to airy nothing A local habitation and a name.

Wil iam Shakespeare A Midsummer Night’s Dream

have operational skills

to have a highly skilled and experienced team of practitioners. Our future success will be defined by our ability to share, define and articulate a vision for writing that complements emerging online communication technology. As the Head of Barker College, Mr Phillip Heath often says: we have all the necessary expertise and skill right here among our teachers. We now need to draw more deeply on the gifts

on a computer or be able

and capacities embedded in

to take notes on a tablet, they must

the opportunity to give and receive

also write every day, in order to learn,

feedback (see www.readingrockets.org).

School’s Inspiring Global Hope strategic

consolidate and apply these key literacy

Professional learning at Barker

plan. We anticipate that this vision will

skills and strategies.

Acknowledged writing expert and

our School community, as part of the

includes adopting a concerted effort

play out as we place an increased focus

in developing a strategic approach

on writing in 2016.

researcher, Steve Graham, notes the

to writing. Staff across the school

following dimensions of writing that are

collaborate in sharing their respective

Dr Brad Merrick

worthy of developing. These include:

wisdom, experience and aspirations for

Director of Research in Learning and

1. Provide daily time for students to

writing in their disciplines and stage

the Barker Institute

levels. They also challenge themselves

Dr Greg Cunningham

to consider innovative ways to foster

Director of Teaching and Learning and

This may include explicit teaching

a whole-school approach to writing

College of Teachers

of writing strategies, shifting the

to ensure that all students can write

writing responsibility from teacher

and communicate effectively. Barker

write.

2. Teach students the writing process.

to student and guiding students

College draws heavily on the research

to use appropriate strategies while

and practice of Harvard’s Teaching for

encouraging students to be flexible

Understanding framework. Central to

in the use of the writing process.

our students’ ability to demonstrate

3. Teach students to write for a variety

understanding is the requisite skill

of purposes. This could involve the

and refinement of writing across all

different purposes of writing, the

disciplines.

range of audiences that exist and the emulation of good writing already

Barker teaching staff will look to develop key indicators of good

www.barkerinstitute.com.au @BarkerInstitute Sharing innovation, research and professional learning throughout the education community. Fostering inspired teaching practice, locally, nationally and globally.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

published, combined with the

TEACHING AND LEARNING

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TO WRITE OR NOT TO WRITE: THAT IS OUR QUESTION.

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s we ponder the 400th anniversary of the expressive

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STEAM/ROBOTICS

STEAM/ROBOTICS

Barker Redbacks the world stage

Early on January 10, when most of us were still in bed, dozens of students gathered at Macquarie University, eagerly awaiting the announcement of this year’s FIRST Robotics Competition game.

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ready for shipping. It would not be opened until the Australian Regional.

At the Sydney Regional an entirely new, refined shooter was installed, along with new intake arms.

Our students were incredible, demonstrating the FIRST values of ‘Gracious Professionalism’ and ‘Cooperation’. Ulladulla High School were helped with installing new software to their robot, a Taiwanese team was supplied with tools, and a school from Cairns was taught how to build their robot and simply get it on the Field. Redbacks shirts were seen all over the pits – helping teams, giving assistance and encouraging others.

FRC isn’t just about building robots, or about winning – it’s about students learning they can achieve great things if they convert their dreams into planned, deliberate action. Along the way they learn and apply science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics. That’s why we were so proud to win the Chairman’s Award at the Sydney Regional. This award recognises the team that has done the most to share the message of FIRST with the community, to help other teams to grow, and to build their skills.

It was an additional honour for Alastair Pilley (Year 12) to receive the Dean’s List Award for the Australian Regional. Alastair recognised a need for a motor to be included in the kit of parts for use by all teams. So he designed a reliable, efficient, low-cost gearbox that our team produced and distributed to seven countries, with over 130 units distributed this season.

We ended up winning the Australian Regional in a nail-biting finish that went to three matches after losing the first match on a foul. We congratulate our partner teams, 3132 from Macquarie University, and 6035 from Ulladulla High School, without whom success would not have been possible.

There is so much more to tell. Blowing a gearbox and amazingly repairing it in 20 minutes. Travelling to Canada and coming second in the Calgary Regional and winning the Gracious Professionalism award. Both of our Robotics coaches – Daiane and Jeser Becker-Rodrigues – being recognised at separate regionals with the Woodie Flowers Award (for incredible mentors). Travelling to Championships and competing in the Newton Division – ‘the division of death’ or ‘the God field’ as it became known. It truly has been an exciting year.

Of course, none of this is possible without the generous backing of our sponsors – Aarnet, Innovation First International, FedEx, FRC Western Canada, CUYRA and Barker College. We also thank our dedicated mentors – John Nicholls, Angus Griffin, Emmanuel Zammit, Anthony Brian and Guy O’Hanna, who have spent countless hours advising, motivating and organising our students toward success.

We are thrilled to announce that this term we will extend Robotics to the Middle School. We can’t wait to see what the future holds and invite you to join us in the journey.

Lael Grant Robotics Coordinator

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

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peculation had been circling the internet among some 50,000 students that maybe this year – finally – it would be a water game. The time edged closer and finally at 2am, the game was announced: FIRST Stronghold.

The immediate question among students was: “How are we going to shoot balls that high and that accurately!?” Among mentors: “How are we going to build that field!?!?” One-and-a-half weeks later, the field was built and the robot was in progress. With a drive base completed, prototypes of our final shooter were being cut out on the CNC Mill in the Design and Technology Centre.

In six weeks we designed, prototyped, CADed, milled, constructed, programmed and tested our robot.

Along the way, we invited Abbotsleigh students to help them plan their first season, held weekly mentor teleconferences with teams around the country, and helped our students move ideas and sketches into reality. On the final weekend of build season, we opened our field to schools from around Sydney for a Week 0 Scrimmage. Our students helped other teams complete their robots, gave advice, contributed spare parts, and hosted with generosity. Teams across the globe watched the entire event live streamed over the Internet. We released our reveal video for our robot, receiving 60 views in the first 30 seconds, 500 in 5 minutes and over 3,000 views in 24 hours. The excitement was palpable! Finally on February 21, we bagged and tagged our robot just before midnight,

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MATHS & LIBRARY

Ros Hamblyn Assistant Coordinator of Mathematics Above Ross Johnston, Jack Brown and Eloise Wicks.

LANGUAGES

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ne of our aims within the Mathematics department is to encourage students to choose the course with which they will have the most success in the HSC. Our HSC results over the past 10 years are testament to our success in advising students to choose wisely. Sadly, the trend across NSW is that an increasing number of students are choosing to not take mathematics at all for their HSC. Thankfully at Barker, our Mathematics course numbers remain stable and indeed are improving in Extension 1 and 2.

Current Year 12 students were asked about their experiences in senior mathematics. Here is what they said.

Eloise Wicks, Mathematics: “It strikes the right balance between being challenging and achievable.”

Jack Brown, Ext 1 Mathematics: “The fun, complex and challenging nature makes it rewarding.”

Ross Johnston, Ext 2 Mathematics: “It is the most challenging, yet rewarding subject.”

Senior Calculus Mathematics

Year 12 Japanese Extension Day Barker hosted a study day in February for Year 12 students studying Japanese. Several outstanding speakers presented lectures relating to the film Departures, which is set for study as part of the HSC Extension course. Students from many schools participated in the day. Not only did they hear from expert teachers and extend their knowledge of Japanese films, but everyone enjoyed the chance to develop friendships with students from other schools. Such a splendid showcase of Japanese culture and collaborative learning practices was only possible due to the hard work and dedication of teachers Jessica McKinlay and Keiko Hosogoe, who have tirelessly supported this event over many years.

Languages working to

Above Barker students Isabella Song and Ashwin Singh at the Japanese study day.

Author Will Kostakis gives Year 9 Languages Evening In March, all Year 9 students who study a language gathered in the BCMA theatre for the Year 9 Languages Evening. Each class presented an item for the entertainment and enjoyment of their peers, parents and staff. The audience was moved by the athletic, dramatic and musical performances of the students on stage – all in a foreign language! The entire cohort should be highly commended for producing a range of sophisticated and engaging items – whether a song sung in French, an exercise routine in Japanese or plays in Chinese and Latin. Thanks must go to the Year 9 teachers for preparing their students so well.

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Jason Saikaly Head of Library Services

Above Will leading the writing workshop

Above Barker students performing a Japanese Exercise Routine at the Year 9 Languages Evening.

Above Jessica McKinlay and Keiko Hosogoe presenting at the Staff Conference.

Barker Languages Staff Conference In the last two days of Term 1, the Languages Department held a professional development conference at Manly. The conference was titled Beyond the Mint Gates: Inspiring Language Learners in Heart, Mind and Soul. Papers were delivered on topics ranging from the attributes and skills required by future-ready citizens, to technology and language learning, gesture-based learning and bilingualism.

Each member of the teaching staff (along with an external presenter) made a fantastic contribution to what was a richly rewarding opportunity for professional learning and growth.

The School is indeed blessed to have such a committed and dynamic team, working to inspire global hope through language learning.

Matthew Ross Head of Languages

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

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ustralian author Will Kostakis visited Barker College library in April to run a writing workshop and promote his latest young adult novel, The Sidekicks. Twelve students benefited from the workshop as Will, working with the students, transformed an ugly duckling piece of prose into a literary swan. The students also had the opportunity to produce and share their own literary creations, which were all impressive.

After the writing workshop, Will hosted an open discussion that was well attended by both staff and students. He shared his story about how he became a published author while still a student at school and his subsequent journey, which now sees him as one of Australia’s favourite young adult writers. A great day was had by all.

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Can you imagine an immersive learning environment using three-dimensional (3D) models and virtual reality?

This is what zSpace offers. Barker is the first school in Australia to have a functional, networked zSpace lab, which opened in February 2016. A team of Junior and Secondary School staff have recently taken part in an intensive two-day workshop here. This included learning how the stylus, glasses and screen work together to present an intuitive virtual reality environment, exploring how to interact and manipulate the models, and examining the zSpace software packages to better understand the various activities relevant to respective teaching curricula. The teachers then developed lesson and class activities using the machines. They were also able to create and import their own 3D models.

There are two separate zSpace learning environments in Barker: the Junior School Learning Enrichment Centre and the Senior School Library, both of which have

provided the setting for incredible learning experiences through applying virtual reality to a range of subjects.

For example, Senior students from History, Science, Mathematics and Computer Science classes have all had lessons using zSpace. Other subjects, like Design and Technology, are planning activities that use the modelling capabilities of this environment.

The virtual reality setting and interactive 3D models in zSpace provide an immersive and enriching educational technology that supports STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) subjects at Barker. Future developments in this field present exciting potential and access to sites and information at a level of detail previously not possible.

COMPUTATIONAL CREATIVITY Creativity, problem solving, design skills and computational (logical) thinking are all attributes of the Computer Science curriculum. Accordingly, students from Years 9 to 12 in IST (Information and Software Technology), IPT (Information Processes and Technology) and SDD (Software Design and Development) have been exploring a range of topics and digital technologies.

Students in Year 9 IST have been authoring multimedia products using the Adobe Creative Suite of software, while exploring various ethical issues around the creation and use of digital technologies. These students will soon design interactive environmental games using Unity, a powerful 3D program development software. This will further develop programming, problem solving and design skills.

Year 10 IST have created a range of digital media products and explored Augmented Reality, along with historical developments and career options in ICT. They have been working on projects with increasingly complex technical, time management and interdependence requirements. As a result, the students have developed their skills in project

management, collaboration and ongoing evaluation. Special effects movies they have created will be showcased in the Library and on a range of digital spaces.

This year, the Computer Science Department is fortunate to welcome two dedicated new teachers. Mr Lael Grant and Mrs Malyn Mawby bring a vast range of knowledge and experiences, including computer programming, project management, robotics, project-based learning and innovation in the teaching of Computer Science and ICT. Tim Milkins Head of Computer Science

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016 

COMPUTER SCIENCE THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

ZSPACE – VIRTUAL REALITY THROUGHOUT BARKER

16

COMPUTER SCIENCE

INNOVATION IMMERSION & INTERACTIO N

17

HISTORY

MUSIC

Top Peter with our Year 12 History Extension students. Below Peter speaking to a captivated audience.

Clockwise from top Cameron Armour and Ryan Wells (Yr 12) perform HSC repertoire at ‘Coffee House Unplugged’; Guitar tutor Sam Thomlinson (06) and Lesley Moxon discussing repertoire with Jonathan Chan, Arthur Wang and Arjun Kalyanakumar (Yr 9); Bodie Denton (Yr 5), Jasper Teggins (Yr 5), Finn Rees (Yr 6) rocking out at Junior School Assembly.

A wonderful evening for

18

the Q&A, and the considered nature of his replies, added to the experience.

Peter was extremely generous giving up his time to speak to the students, and told me the next day that he considered it an honour to address such keen and interested young people. Students and staff from our guest schools were equally full of praise. The evening was a tremendous success, and will hopefully lead to further collaboration between our schools on future History Extension events.

Philip Gordon History Extension Teacher

makes its mark at Barker

T

he contemporary music program allows students to join smaller bands with friends and other like-minded students.

They rehearse weekly under the mentorship of music staff, and perform throughout the year.

The program provides performance opportunities for students interested in rock and popular music styles. The aim is to guide students through rehearsals with repertoire advice and good rehearsal techniques.

It is hoped that bands that start out in Middle School will move into the senior years together, feeling confident and capable of running their own rehearsals with the skills learned.

Currently there are over 20 contemporary bands in the Secondary School, and recently a Junior School rock band has started rehearsing as part of the Year 5 classroom instrumental program.

Working together in small ensembles, students develop technical facility, ensemble awareness, listening skills and self-confidence. Unlike other Barker ensembles, the repertoire is learned entirely by ear.

There is no notation, except simple chord charts in the initial learning stage of a piece. At the start of each rehearsal, the band discusses the structure of the song. Students need a clear understanding of each section, their individual part within the song and how this relates to other members of the ensemble.

Students taking contemporary music studies as an elective enhance their enthusiasm and passion for music, as the course provides a platform to develop their musical understanding and apply knowledge to other musical genres. They develop their own unique playing and compositional style, and we hope they continue to perform music long after completing their schooling at Barker (see The Barker issue 109, p.

20). Above all, involvement in the contemporary music program inspires a lifelong love of music in an atmosphere of enjoyment.

Students interested in joining the program can see Mrs Moxon in the Music Centre.

Lesley Moxon Music Teacher

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

H

SC History Extension is a course unique to NSW. Our Year 12 students enjoy learning about and discussing the various ways history has been produced over time, both academically and nonacademically. As part of this process, on one evening in March, over 60 History Extension students from Barker, Knox, Ravenswood, PLC and Loreto, along with staff and some parents, enjoyed a talk in the Rhodes Theatre by popular historian Peter FitzSimons.

He was invited via Twitter to speak to our students, and he agreed immediately. We then extended the invite out to our neighboring schools, who jumped at the chance to be involved. Peter discussed how he approaches his writing, including the inspiration behind each story or person. He enthralled the audience with individual stories from some of his books, and gave tremendous information to the students about the role of popular non-academic history in the public domain. His talk provoked much debate and discussion among the Year 12 students about the type of history that he writes. The breadth and quality of the questions asked of Peter during

19

ALUMNI PROFILE

ALUMNI PROFILE

Profile

Director of Alumni Relations, Mandy Loomes, speaks with Matthew Baker from the Class of 1994.

Do have a favourite school memory?

Yes! My jazz trio was not allowed to play in the annual music concert because I was already involved in too many other items. I wanted it so badly that I approached the Headmaster, Mr Tucker. We met for lunch in the dining hall and I managed to convince him to let us play. I felt quite proud.

20

Have you always enjoyed playing jazz?

Yes. Jazz gave me the freedom to express, and to break out of the traditional constraints of piano lessons.

That said, one of the biggest mistakes I made at first was thinking I could throw away classical studies and technical work. When I later found how much I was lacking in technique, I picked up classical again (scales, exercises etc), which I still practise to this day.

Why did you move to New York?

There came a time around the age of 30 when my career and playing began to plateau. I had the life in Australia, but not the opportunities. To revisit my dreams and achieve them, I had to relocate and there was only one place for me: the jazz mecca of the world.

Do you like living there?

I do, I absolutely love it. It’s the city of extremes. Last weekend was the coldest winter night (minus 19 Celsius) since 1916, and when it’s hot, it’s hot. It’s dirty, smelly, fast-paced, competitive, and at first you work really hard and don’t earn anything.

But it’s also beautiful. The architecture and enormity of the city is inspiring, Central Park is beautiful, the snow is beautiful, and the music, culture and warmth of the people is amazing.

What is the most rewarding part of being a musician?

Being able to create, grow and work around such a diverse array of musicians. To have the opportunity to perform on some of the world’s greatest stages and inspire others is the greatest thing I could hope for.

What is a career highlight to date?

By the time this is published, I will have just played Carnegie Hall for the first time. Other than that–touring with Judy Collins, performing with Patrizio Buanne, playing at Birdland Jazz Club, visiting the home of Oscar Peterson and playing his piano, playing solo at the Lincoln Centre and being written up in The New York Times the next day, playing privately for Quincy Jones and chanting pre-show with pianist Herbie Hancock.

Did you consider a career other than in music?

Yes – medicine or movie-making. I still love making and editing video, which can be seen at my YouTube channel @ MattBakerJazz.

Did Barker prepare you well for the future?

Barker offered me wonderful musical opportunities, and a great all-round education. When music demanded more of me at school, I was even able to let sport go for the most part, to dedicate afternoons to music.

What is your advice for today’s Barker students?

Do your best at school; finish your courses and degrees. More than you know yet, you are preparing and disciplining yourself for a long life to come. Anything is possible, but you have to believe in yourself and then create the life you want. You’ll get what you ask for, become what you believe you’re worthy of, and do what’s in your heart.

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2015

What did you do after leaving Barker?

In the early years I worked a ton of jobs: waiting tables, DJ’ing, and working at Grace Bros and David Jones, in between playing. I joined the Australian jazz group Galapagos Duck and played with my band at the Soup Plus Jazz Club in the city, often with vocalist Emma Pask. I was mentored by drummer John Morrison (brother of James), joined John’s big-band, Swing City, and recorded my first CD. In the early 2000s, my trio performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival Switzerland for four consecutive years. I was also a semi-finalist for three years in the Montreux Solo Jazz Piano competition.

Where did you study after leaving Barker?

I studied a Bachelor of Music in jazz studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Towards the end of my degree and for several years afterwards, I made several trips to New York, studied with the best of the genre and was mentored by and became friends with jazz legend, Oscar Peterson. I attest most of my ability to New York, and the inspiration gained there.

21

OED

OED

Gold journey across the

Above and top right Chris Hinds after his very damp Cross Country event Right Thomas Griffiths also got a bit wet on his downhill seeding run.

Clockwise from left Chris Lee climbing the Castle; A few of our recent Gold awardees after the formalities at Government House; Our teams on top of the Castle.

22

Graeme Dawes Senior Duke of Edinburgh coordinator

“We emerged from the trees out onto a rock pagoda. From here we could finally see the pass and we all knew we had made it.”

“We left camp with high hopes. Finally the rain stopped and to celebrate I was wearing my dry socks. Climbing around Mount Cole, the small trail we had been following suddenly dissolved into the jungle. It was only 9:30 and already we felt lost.”

I

n early March, 23 Barker Mountain Bikers travelled to Thredbo for the Australian Interschools Championships for three days of competitive riding.

The first event was the Dual Compressor, which is open to all riders. Our best rider, MTB Captain Chris Hinds, came second in the Division 1 competition after several thrilling rides.

Next was the main event, the Downhill, commonly called the Cannonball Run. After a sketchy Division 1 seeding run in the pouring rain, Chris Hinds came fifth in a fast time of 5 minutes 13.19 seconds, only 22 seconds behind the winner.

Lachlan Hinds was the next placed Barker rider, in 13th place. The large contingent of Barker Division 2 riders placed throughout the field, with James Irish posting the best time of 6 minutes 30.92 seconds to take 28th place.

Cross country was the final event, on Sunday morning.

In Division 2 James Culver placed fourth after four gruelling laps of the 2km course. Lachlan Horsley came 17th, overcoming a chain malfunction on his first lap, and Peter Austin finished in 21st despite a fall on his last lap.

In Division 1 Chris Hinds came in a creditable third in just under 35 minutes, this time beating his fourth-placed brother Lachlan by 30 seconds. Finn van Herten rode an excellent race, crossing the line in 21st place.

The overall results were enough to place the Division 2 riders second in the cross country. The Division 1 boys were awarded first place in the Dual Compressor and second in the Downhill event.

For his excellent effort in every event, Chris Hinds was awarded the title ‘King of The Mountain’ for 2016, a great effort in his final year of Barker Mountain Biking. Chris has been an inspiration to the younger riders and a thrill to watch in action. He has been a solid captain of the sport and an excellent ambassador for Barker.

Andrew Love CCC Mountain Biking

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

T

raversing the Budawang Range is one the qualifying journeys offered to our senior Duke of Edinburgh participants. The area is reputed as a tough trip, famous for its rugged terrain and challenging navigation. Guarded from all sides by cliffs, the Monolith Valley is a unique and memorable destination, with a pocket of spectacular rainforest adding to the mystique. When conditions permit, it is also possible to scale the various peaks of the area and take in the views. To complete a successful crossing, our participants must call on all the outdoor skills they have developed during their previous expeditions. This year’s trip again proved the resilience and spirited nature of our students, with countless memorable sights and conversations shared.

2016 Australian Championships at Thredbo

23

DRAMA

DRAMA

Winter

O

24

of the Year 10 and 11 plays, the comic Shakespearian winners of the Breaking Bard competition, the triumph of last years’ representative Theatresports team against our current team and the return of last year’s Drama Captain, Caitlin Williams in a short scene promoting OBAT’s production of The Importance of Being Earnest.

We’d like to thank the parents who braved the cold and arrived with their bundles of blankets, the HSC students who put aside a night of study to support us, and the Drama Committee for serving hot chocolate and banana bread; Dan and Lachie for selling lolly bags for the Treehouse Theatre Company, Brittany Myers and her fantastic team who made our lives so much easier, Maddie Staas for her breathtaking poster design, and our Drama teachers for supporting every insane idea we’ve had for Playhouse over the last month. Winter Playhouse could not have happened without all of these exceptional

people. Every person supporting one another and helping to make everyone look their best.

The Winter Playhouse is unique in the way that it is the only time in the school’s Drama calendar that students from Years 9-12 perform on the same stage together. With that in mind we are so thankful for the family that has supported us every step along the way of our Barker Drama journey towards Year 12.

Sean Landis Drama Captain

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2015

In 2014, during rehearsals for our Year 10 play, Fallen, Ms Midgley sat us down and told us about a little

ver the years, this is a term that has come to define the way I see Barker Drama, not an amalgamation of students in different years who have little in common outside of the drama studios, but as a family of people who all share the same passion, and who will endlessly support one another simply because it’s what we do.

This Drama Karma, this commitment to unity and circular support, is exactly what we saw on show at the Winter Playhouse.

This event is what we, as the Drama captain trio, have been building towards for a long time, albeit nervously. By building on the success of Theatre Under the Trees, led by Barker’s former Drama captains, the talented Sean and Vindhya (2014); and Caitlin and Isaac (2015), we knew we could create something memorable and fun.

As we sat to the side, watching parents and students slowly filling the magical winter world we created, drinking their complimentary hot chocolate and eating their banana bread while they gazed at the mass of fairy lights in the courtyard, we knew we had succeeded. The small, intimate vibe immersed the audience in our own Drama Karma.

Amid the hectic life of Barker College, it is rare to find time to appreciate that we are all one family of students. We might not take the time to recognise that Year 12 Drama students make it their duty to support every production in the school, and the same happens the other way around. We might not take the time to recognise the kind words of encouragement, support and congratulations that appear mysteriously on our Barker Drama Facebook group after each major event or understand the impact of the whispered ‘chookas’ amid the patting backs and hugs that happen every time before we go on stage.

The night was filled with memorable moments that made the Winter Playhouse such a success: from the Year 9s who braved the stage after only a week of rehearsals on their Greek Chorus performances, to Kelsea and Anna in Year 10 who pulled off an hilarious duologue despite one member having a broken leg, to the Year 11s who revived their Chekhov monologues from last term, and some devastatingly sad and beautifully comic HSC monologues. We witnessed two captivating previews

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VISUAL ARTS

VISUAL ARTS

HOPE

Below Barker students reflecting within Abstraction of Confussion by Taro Shinoda.

HOPE

HOPE HOPE

HOPE

HOPE

HOPE HOPE

The Barker College Chapel requires a new artwork to replace the Phoenix tapestry on the Communion Table.

The striking Phoenix has been the decorative tapestry of our Communion table. While it is being cleaned and repaired we need a temporary replacement and we are looking for your help! We invite the Barker College community to contribute their vision.

Everyone is welcome to develop and submit one entry.

HOPE

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

HOPE

HOPE HOPE

For assistance the Visual Arts department encourages students to attend Art Access Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri 3:30-5pm

H

HOPE

H

HOP

SUBMISSIONS: Submit artworks to the Visual Arts staffroom before the end of Term 3, 2016. All entrants must include the title of their artwork, their full name, contact number and email somewhere on the back of this work.

HOPE

FORMS: Drawing, painting, photography, collage, digital media, print-making.

HOPE

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS: 2.1 x 0.9m, no thicker than 4cm

HOP

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JUDGES: Rev Ware, Mrs Elston and Mr Whitington

HOPE HOPE HOPE

Additionally, Pure Land: Inside the Mogoa Grottoes at Dunhuang gave students the opportunity to experience an augmented-reality installation. Using a tablet, students could see colours and stories come to life, and better understand the true meanings of the paintings.

All in all, the students were inspired by their trip.

“ArtExpress gave me several ideas for my next unit of work in Visual Arts, and also showed me what I can aspire to achieve in the future,” commented one student, Charles Balog.

Matthew Bentham Head of Visual Arts

HOPE

PRIZE: $300 (Please recognise that your work will become part of our place of worship)

HOP

E

arly this term, Year 8 visited the Art Gallery of New South Wales to view four separate and distinctly different exhibitions, including a comprehensive investigation into the golden age of China, and the 20th Biennale of Sydney.

Students were both inspired and challenged as they ventured outside of the everyday classroom experience into the gallery, filled with historical, modern and contemporary art. Some students challenged the aesthetic value of some Biennale artworks, but as Simon Schama once said, “It can take just one good painting or artwork to rough up your composure, and then proceed in short order to re-arrange your reality”. One such artwork was that of Jennifer Allora and Guillermo Calzadilla, titled Petrified Petrol Pump 2010, made from fossil-filled limestone (pictured above). For many students, this work encapsulated a significant environmental issue that all must face in their lifetime.

The artwork made must represent the idea of HOPE

HOPE

Above Students viewing an ArtExpress highlight.

From the Sydney

HOPE

HOPE

“It can take just one good artwork to rough up your composure, and then proceed in short order to re-arrange your reality.” Simon Schama, presenter of Power of Art.

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DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

Henry Crosswell

Gemma Kiss

Wai Wai Liang Fergus Berney-Gibson

Amy Hwang

YEAR 11 TEXTILES AND DESIGN

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Rachel Duong

Y

ear 11 Textiles and Design students recently completed a foundation unit dealing with the principles and elements of design, and how these are used to create effective compositions. Shown here are some examples which seek to achieve balance, interest and harmony through colour, texture, line, shape and form.

Students are encouraged to apply a range of techniques as they examine the different properties of fabrics for their suitability, and are now focused on creating wearable garments. Even though the composition takes on a 3D form, the students now have a much better understanding of design language when discussing and analysing the relationship between parts, to produce clothing that is aesthetically pleasing.

Darren Woodrow HOD Design and Technology

Gen Meighan

Jack Conwell

Josh Lorschy

Y

ear 11 Design and Technology Multimedia students have recently completed designing, branding and advertising a new perfume or cologne. Their range of concepts has been diverse. Both the packaging and context show an awareness of design elements, empathy in branding and cultural and social influences.

Students used CAD modelling and rendering suites to produce their designs, and then After Effects and Illustrator to produce the graphic content.

Darren Woodrow HOD Design and Technology

Savannah Hughes

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016 

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

Sarah Woodrow

YEAR 11 DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

29

SPORT

SPORT

Girls Success

Right Barker 1st Basketball Team following their ISA Victory!

T

he Girls Basketball program had an exciting

2nds proceeded to the grand finals, winning the title 29-17

2015-16 summer season, competing in the ISA

over Chevalier College.

Girls Championships and Hornsby Spiders

For the 1sts, the finals series started on flaky territory

local competitions. In the Sydney Flames

due to injury and illness. But in one of the best performances

Invitational, Barker 1sts won the competition

in ISA Basketball for many years, Kimberley Hodge scored

undefeated and set the tone for a very competitive season.

a Barker girls record 55 points to help ensure a grand final

In the first half of the season, the 1sts and 2nds teams

performance for the team. Here, the Barker 1sts went on

and Intermediate B team placed in third position. This

to win the Open A Division for the first time in nine years,

achievement gave the Barker 1sts tremendous momentum

defeating Redlands 69-58. This was an outstanding team

as they went on to win the silver medal in the U20 Senior

effort for all players in our sport program.

Women’s Division at the Australian Schools Championships in December.

Returning in Term 1, all teams worked hard in the

On the representative front, Barker players achieved at the very highest level. Four students represented both ISA and NSWCIS teams: Rebecca Black, Abby Cubillo, Kimberley

remaining four rounds and all ISA teams qualified for the

Hodge and Elizajane Loader. For the first time in Barker

semifinals. Despite a valiant effort, the Intermediate B team

history, three students represented NSW All Schools in

went down to finish in fourth in their division. The Barker

the Pacific School Games in Adelaide, Rebecca Black, Abby Cubillo and Elizajane Loader, also co-captain of the team.

In a fiercely fought final, NSW won the gold medal over Victoria and Abby Cubillo joined the All Australian team at the conclusion of the championships. Moving into the 2016 representative season, Barker has another four students going on to represent ISA in the upcoming NSW CIS Championships: Rebecca Black, Kimberley Hodge, Elizajane

30

Nicole Bailey CCC Girls’ Basketball

Left Barker 2nd Basketball team

O

n a windy, chilly autumn morning, we

Safari We took a break with a trip to the Knysna Elephant

huddled near Gate D, trying to calm our overly

Sanctuary and the scenic drive to incredible Cape Town.

anxious mums and dads wishing they could

Highlights included being hosted by amazing families at

come along to watch their boys play, before

Settlers and Westerford schools, and visiting Robben Island,

boarding the 14-hour flight.

Table Mountain, Boulders Penguin Beach, the Waterfront,

The next few days remain a blur of tiredness, training

and many trips to a famous local steak ranch, affectionately

Newlands and more.

Our hosting experience with the Settlers hosts was

named ‘spur burger’ by the squad. A visit to the Apartheid

characterised by their relaxed and entertaining nature,

Museum was a highlight, the violence and civil conflict at the

unwavering sense of humour and great hospitality. Each

heart of the made for a moving experience. A nearby theme

experience taught us something different about this

park provided an enjoyable diversion, while the incredible

beautiful country and its people. Special mention must also

Lesedi Cultural Village helped us better understand South

be made of our moving visit to Zimasa School, a township

Africa’s cultural diversity.

school that Barker has had a connection with since the tour

Our host families were exceptionally gracious. Some

of 2013. We were greeted by a crowd of 60 kids who were

of us were billeted with families from Grey High School,

all singing as we arrived. We were introduced to Grace, a

a fascinating cultural contrast to our host families in

medical student who the Barker Rugby Club has helped

Johannesburg, but equal in their kindness towards us.

sponsor through university.

The fixtures began. An early 34-7 victory with minimal

A victory each over Settlers and Westerford, a visit from

injuries against our first opponents St David’s left us in high

the Reds head coach, Nick Styles, and a narrow loss to Strand

spirits. The game against Grey was physical and competitive,

capped off a worthwhile playing roster. The tour ended with a

really testing us. There was no disappointment in the hard-

visit to the luxurious Sun City resort and immense Pilansberg

earned 22-22 draw.

Nature Reserve. The trip was truly incredible in every aspect.

Tiaan Stals Tour Captain

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

Loader and Chaylee Reeve.

Reds

31

SPORT

SPORT

Cross Country: with a Little Run in the Middle

W

ho would have known that the

On race day, the starter’s gun sounded and the pace was

simple act of running would lead

hot from the start. Undaunted by the competition, Kieren

to the adventure of a lifetime? For

Tall took control and sat comfortably in the lead pack for the

the Barker Cross Country team,

entirety of the race, finishing in an outstanding ninth place.

their dedication and determination

Lachie Cubbin showed great pacing as well, finishing 29th.

paid off when they were selected to represent Australia at the

Mikey Nicholas and Hugh Hunt were the big improvers of the

World Schools Cross Country Championships in Budapest,

team, finishing 30th and 34th. Ben Playford and Jack Brown

Hungary.

rounded out the team with powerful runs to finish 39th

The two-week adventure started with a visit to Prague.

and 54th. Overall the team placed fifth in the world. At the

Highlights here included visits to Charles Bridge, Prague

closing ceremony, Australia was also awarded the Fair Play

Castle and St Vitus Cathedral, along with several training

trophy for sportsmanship.

runs through cobbled streets along the Vltava River.

Once we landed in Budapest from Prague, the magnitude of the race dawned on the team as they looked around and noticed teams from all around the world.

After the closing ceremony, the team travelled to Vienna for a well-earned rest which included sightseeing and historical tours of the city.

Steve Deveney CCC Cross Country

ACT

B

Girls

T

arker College remained undefeated on the annual rugby tour to Canberra during April.

The group of 44 students from the 15 and 16s age groups stayed in athlete accommodation at the AIS. Apart from enjoying the culinary

experiences of a professional athlete, the students trained

using world-class facilities including training ovals, Olympic swimming pool and recovery plunge spas.

The first matches were against the regimented Marist College. The U15s were extraordinarily dominant, scoring

77 points and keeping Marist scoreless. The 16s match was a

32

winning the match by 20 points. St Edmunds proved to be a different and more difficult challenge, but one that Barker eventually surmounted. The 15s played even better than their last game. Their ruck-controlling performance was characterised by poise and precise execution, allowing them to win 32-12. The 16s again were involved in a close game.

his year has been a fantastic softball season for

In the field, the team was equally focused, and produced an

Barker College, with our success now stretched

error-free game. Strong pitching and catching rounded out the

across two decades.

performance.

However, softball is not just about the success of the team. It’s about the energy and

In addition, Barker softballers have had an outstanding representative season. Six players represented ISA at the

fun generated with each training session and game. Whether

CIS Softball championships that went on to win the CIS

it be developing our sliding skills, throwing eggs at one another

Championships for the first time since 1994.

or successfully completing a run down play and tagging the

Our representatives were Kelly Van Homrigh, Gabrielle

scoring. A penalty was eventually kicked by Barker late in the

runner out, it is the cheers and smiles that create an amazing

Chan, Bella Serhan, Kate Pierce, Emma Lawrence and Jade

game to claim victory 17-14.

team spirit.

Beeston, along with Laura Southwood (class of 2006), who was

The students also enjoyed other activities on the tour,

This season saw the Mighty Reds continue their success

Barker and ISA Coach.

such as go-karting, a motivational workshop and an AIS tour.

with tremendous team batting, strongly supported by our

I think all those who attended the tour would agree that it

pitchers and catchers. Several newer players stepped up to

the CIS team by Gabrielle Chan, Bella Serhan, Emma Lawrence

was an enjoyable and memorable experience.

play the final at Blacktown International Sportspark, to fill in

and Jade Beeston.

Alastair McCallum Tour Organiser

were absolutely amazing.

for others felled by injuries and illness. Their performances We defeated Oxley College in the Grand Final. Our team put

After a slow start, they found themselves in an arm-wrestle

together an awesome display with the bat, with every player

of a match, with both teams coming tantalisingly close to

successfully hitting the ball to create scoring opportunities.

Barker was also well represented at the NSW All Schools in

Anne Horne CCC Girls’ Softball

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

much tighter event but Barker broke free in the second half,

Success

33

BOARDING

CADETS

“I feel proud to be who I am. Proud to be Aboriginal.”

Clockwise from top left Jayden with the Lloyd McDermott U17 rugby team; Jayden and the U17s at the Lloyd McDermott Annual Fundraising Dinner; Cousins and team mates, Brett Johnson (left) and Jayden Kitchener-Waters (right); Jayden, second from left, relaxing after a match with team mates and opponents.

Jayden Kitchener-Waters –the pride of the

T

Singleton Military Training Area, took advantage of any

trip was the opportunity to do the team war-cry, a moment

who represented his country recently in an

of unification.

Waters joined Barker as a boarder this year

Over the Easter weekend, Jayden toured with the Lloyd

Jayden’s reflections on the trip were how strong and

He also reflected on how much he missed his family and how important they are. “Being in boarding has been hard

McDermott U17 rugby team to New Zealand. This is the

with homesickness but it’s helped me to appreciate my family

national Indigenous development squad, which is supported

more.”

and mentored closely by such greats as the Ella brothers and Kurtley Beale. The team played two games and won both.

Jayden captained the team in the first match in his favoured position of fly-half.

Experiences like this for young men like Jayden are a powerful way to connect with other young Aboriginal men, drawing strength from each other and the mentors involved

We are always very proud to know and be involved with another wonderful young Australian.

Jonathan Rheinberger Director of Boarding

he 2016 Annual Camp was again the highlight of the year for many cadets. It is always a great credit to the abilities of our young men and women when the Year 12 leadership team plan and execute such a large

undertaking with such confidence and professionalism.

The site chosen this year, on the western side of the

breeze and provided a grand view for the supporting group of

Some highlights of the camp were: • The Advance Party receiving a briefing and being able to test out some of the current Army night vision equipment.

• The Weapons Training Simulation System using an actual F88 Austeyr rifle, which is operated by compressed gas.

Cadets participated in two shoots and fired 36 rounds, with many achieving great scores on the moving target shoot or the grouping and zero practice.

• Showers and the trip to the Infantry Museum are always

parents as they toiled in the kitchen to prepare, cook, serve

a welcome break from the rigours of seven days in a bush

and clean up after 310 hungry souls. The only downside of

camp, especially after completing the gruelling obstacle

the fine weather was the increasingly dusty conditions over

course, which is constructed and designed by the pioneer

the last few days and during pack-up.

Many last-minute changes to the program due to external

cadets.

• The annual pilgrimage by Rev Jeff Ware to the camp for

factors forced the Headquarters team to be flexible and

the traditional parade at sunset, followed by Bush Chapel

adjust their planning accordingly. The rank at all levels

on the last afternoon.

rose to the occasion, to provide challenging and interesting activities throughout the week.

Major Terry Nye Director of Cadet Program

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

Proud to be Aboriginal.”

the achievements of one of our members,

and beyond.

34

powerful he felt upon returning. “I feel proud to be who I am.

with the development program. One of the highlights of the

in Year 10 and is making his mark in rugby, both locally

Annual Camp

T

he Boarding community is proud to share

international rugby tour. Jayden Kitchener-

Clockwise from top left Safety brief before abseiling; enjoying first aid training; one of the dads has a go; Vanessa Chen, Pip Haberlin and Julia Cormio enjoy a break.

35

BCMA

ARCHIVES

The BCMA

36

To round out the term, the BCMA held its annual Mothers’ Escape to the Grange. The stunning Blue Mountains weather made the perfect setting for bushwalking, shopping and relaxing. We all enjoyed a fantastic weekend and well deserved indulgence in our otherwise very busy lives.

Thank you to the wonderful ladies of the three committees who contributed to making these events so remarkable.

Jenelle Montgomerie President Barker College Mothers’ Association

On Saturday 17 September, the BCMA will again host the Barker Spring Fair from 10am-4pm. Please save the date and come along to celebrate with us as part of the Barker Community.

Barker

O

Clockwise from top left The centenary video film crew, 1989; Filming of the concluding scene of Turtle Beach near Barker Oval, 1990; Phillip Noyce discussing his film, Rabbit Proof Fence, with Year 12 English students, 2002; Barker students inspecting the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer trackless train, 1928. Charles Edward Howard Pearson Tom (1922-1928) Collection.

ver the years, Barker students have received visits from numerous production companies and film directors. Students have witnessed films being created, and participated in their creation.

In 1928, the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer trackless train visited Hornsby as part of its world tour. The train consisted of a petrol-driven locomotive and Pullman car containing dining and sleeping facilities for five people. The world tour raised funds for charities and promoted motion pictures by filming the places visited.

Given that this was two years before Barker College installed its own motion picture projector, the train’s visit would have caused much excitement among the students.

In 1990, the School played host to film crews during production of the Australian film Turtle Beach. Directed

by Stephen Wallace and starring Greta Scacchi: “Barker provided some location shots and two short scenes of a mother consigning her two young sons to boarding school!” reported The Barker (October 1990, p. 3). A

number of Barker students featured as extras in the film.

Barker students have been the subject of filming for both the big and small screen. In 1989, students were filmed participating in a range of activities for the School’s centenary video, Bringing Out the Best.

This film was designed to showcase Barker’s history and document the current life of the School. The production of the School’s cinema ads in more recent years saw the return of film crews to campus, and students appearing on the big screen.

Year 12 English students had a film experience of a different kind in 2002, when they attended a screening of Rabbit Proof Fence with the film’s director, Phillip Noyce (Barker student from 1962-1968). This also provided an opportunity for a conversation between students and the film’s director.

Through these experiences, the film industry has been brought to life for Barker students.

Morwenna Pearce Manager of Archives

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

T

his year the Barker College Mothers’ Association celebrates its 90th anniversary. We recently held a celebratory High Tea for past executives, current mothers in the school and the BCMA Committee. We were delighted that Beth McCaskill, Margaret Tucker, Margaret Kefford and Alison Heath could attend this very special occasion.

In true BCMA style, the friendships that have been made over the many years remain strong, as was evident in the joyful conversations around the tables.

We are grateful to the BCMA for all they have done and contributed to the school over the past 90 years.

The Multi-purpose Hall was transformed into a beautiful garden where we enjoyed a memorable afternoon together. Following the High Tea was a hugely successful Trivia Night, attended by close to 400 Barker parents and friends. The BCMA’s simple plan of providing the venue, an entertaining quizmaster and self-catered delights proved to be a winning formula. The evening was highly entertaining and a great night out.

Clockwise from top left Katrina Doney, Julie Fakira and Janet O’Malley create the 90th Anniversary High Tea flowers; Past presidents together with former and present headmasters’ wives, Beth McCaskill, Margaret Tucker, Margaret Kefford and Alison Heath; 2016 Grange Committee: Black and Bling Girls Weekend In.

37

FOUNDATION

THE OLD BARKER

This year has seen the exciting partnership between Barker College and Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council come to fruition

Barker

Winter 2016 — Issue 225

Libby Armstrong (Fisher 1985).

Armstrong Libby Armstrong (Fisher 1985) talks about her Plan A. What has been your journey after Barker?

38

included the former Chairman of Macquarie Group Limited, Kevin McCann AM from the Class of 1957; Head of Barker College, Phillip Heath; and Sean Gordon, the Chief Executive Officer of the Darkingjung Local Aboriginal Land Council.

If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to Darkinjung Barker, please click on the Donations icon on the home page of the Barker College website, and follow the links to Barker Barang.

David Charles Barker Foundation Chairman

What do you enjoy most about your new business venture?

I am such a people person. One customer can make your day just by sharing the pleasure that they or their children have had in reading the book you recommended. My end goal is for people to have pleasure in reading, but I would also like to see young adult fiction become a stand-alone category separate from the children’s category. We have so many great Australian contemporary writers who inspire readers, especially 9 to 13-year-old boys, one of our strongest categories. Currently, our most popular book is by Helen Chebatte, titled Bro.

How important is social media for your business?

This is one of the best things in the bookshop.

We have Twitter, Instagram and Facebook accounts, along with a website. I’m surprised at the marketing results we can achieve from these channels. We can update our marketing material anytime, set up reading lists for local schools and teachers, promote new releases and gain immediate responses from authors or readers. It’s an integral part of our service model and allows us to serve many different audiences.

What is your favourite young adult book at the moment?

The Things I Didn’t Say by Sydney author Kylie Fornasier.

Any final words?

I just hope my story inspires current and former students to dream big, hang on to their dreams, make the plans, and then work to make them happen.

THE OLD THE BARKER | WINTER 2016 2016

THE BARKER | WINTER 2016

T

his year has seen the exciting partnership between Barker College and Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council come to fruition, with a Kindergarten to Year 6 campus now established in the Yarramalong Valley on the Central Coast. Darkinjung Barker focuses on literacy and numeracy achievement levels while celebrating Indigenous culture and identities in partnership with the Darkinjung community.

Darkinjung Barker opened on 29 January this year with a Smoking Ceremony Celebration held the following day. The campus is funded through philanthropic means and was initially supported financially through the generous support of an old boy.

To continue to support Indigenous Education, we held a fundraising dinner in late April. This wonderful and successful evening was hosted by the Macquarie Group Foundation for 80 guests in their function room in Martin Place. The MC was old boy Mark YetticaPaulson, from the Class of 1989. Guest speakers

Following helpful advice from the Barker careers advisor, I studied journalism and wanted to become a professional writer. This led to a 20-year career in the banking sector in Hong Kong and Singapore, with positions ranging from newsletter editor to Head of Communications and Corporate Affairs in International and Institutional Banking.

My career highlight, however, has been opening the Beachside Bookshop in Avalon earlier this year.

I had a burning passion to do this for many years, beginning in my 20s when I managed a Mosman bookstore. This is my Plan A!

39

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

FROM THE OBA PRESIDENT

Inside this 41 OBA President 42 Community Events 45 OBA Groups 48 Personal Notes 50 Obituaries

43

President’s

Our new Lion Cub Club!

Tony Gamson (78), OBA President Old Barker Association Contacts email: oba@barker.nsw.edu.au (Please note that the number in brackets after a name is the graduating year) President Tony Gamson (78) 0458 564 556 Honorary Vice-President Peter Gregory (03) 0400 419 253 Honorary Treasurer Andrew Hassall (86) 0412 610 434 Honorary Secretary David Brookes (79) 0400 906 052 Honorary Assistant Secretary Matt Ross-Smith (10) 0408 284 702

40

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 Manager of Archives Morwenna Pearce (02) 9847 8290 (Sch) morwenna_pearce@barker.nsw.edu.au Kurrajong Society kurrajong@barker.nsw.edu.au Interstate and International Barker Contacts Brisbane Andrew Wilkie (01) 0412 779 383 (m) andrew.wilkie@morgans.com.au Canberra Andrew McColl (74) 0422 985 281(m) mccoll@grapevine.net.au Melbourne Murray Anderson (65) 0457 000 407 (m) murray@capricorngroup.net.au

Nominees to School Council Pennie Cruickshank (79) Michael Brodie (79) Tony Gamson (78)

Northern Rivers Jim Poulos (61) (02) 6686 7711 (h) pamio@bigpond.net.au

OBA Annual Patron Sandy Hollway (64) Keith Thornton (64) Benjamin Anson (85)

Perth Tom Hargreaves (69) 0437 906 588 (m) tom.hargreaves@inpex.com.au

Over 70s Contact Peter Ward (59) via (02) 9847 8229 (Sch) over70s@barker.nsw.edu.au

Sunshine Coast Phil Benjamin (61) pandj.benjamin@bigpond.com

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.

Upper Hunter Charles Cooke (65) (02) 6545 8141 (w) charles_cooke@esat.net.au Canada, Ontario George Darling (70) george.darling@snclavalin.com 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 (w) 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, East Coast Andrew Renton (85) (910) 612 5671 arenton1@mac.com USA, West Coast Digby Cook (56) 623 523 4321 digbyhcook@gmail.com

T

hese are exciting times for the Barker community, with past and present students enthusiastically involved in many different activities and projects. The OBA affiliate groups are flourishing on the field, on the court and on the stage while current students continue to excel in an ever-increasing range of areas both inside and outside the classroom.

The biggest project to be launched in recent times has been the Darkinjung campus on the Central Coast, providing the opportunity for 25 Kindergarten to Year 5 students to gain a Barker education while maintaining their Indigenous culture. This inspiring initiative has been embraced by the community. It is particularly pleasing to see the way the Darkinjung students are welcomed on their fortnightly visits to Hornsby, to be involved in the activities of the Junior School.

There are many stories of positive interaction and support, both big and small, as staff and students embrace this newest addition to the Barker community. One example of the willingness to help came from two students in Year 3, who decided to use their combined birthday party as a fundraising event. Instead of toys and other presents, they asked guests to donate dollar amounts as gifts. This money was then collected, with a little extra added by their parents, and the students proudly donated $1,000 towards providing supplies for their classmates at Darkinjung.

In recognition of their wonderful generosity, each of the students was awarded an OBA Spirit Award in May. To witness such generosity at such a young age augers well for the future.

The OBA Spirit Award program, now in its fourth year, recognises those students who best showcase the values of Barker College and the meaning behind the words, Honor non Honores.

Since its inception, these awards have become an important recognition of students who strive to be the best they can be. It is especially pleasing to receive letters from parents who are proud that their sons and daughters have been acknowledged in this way for their hard work and dedication.

It is also important for the OBA to actively promote the values and traditions that have made Barker the premier school it is today. These characteristics shape many of the

2016 Junior School summer semester recipients.

fundamental lessons we impart to the students. While we rightly celebrate our successes, we have never taken a ‘win at all costs’ attitude – we also strive to help others achieve their goals. We believe these are important and valuable skills that will help all of us in our careers and our lives.

The OBA is proud to promote these values and to present the Spirit Awards. We congratulate all the students who receive them for their contribution to the Barker community.

Tony Gamson (78) OBA President

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

General Committee Chris Bennett (83) Paul Goncharoff (88) Pip Hurley (Webber 85) Jenny Kalaf (Melville 78) Catherine Lancaster (82) David Slinn (80) David Trayner (84) Henry Wells (10)

School Contacts

41

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Events This year we have started a new to welcome the of our alumni into the Barker community.

Clockwise from Top Left A crowded sea of people illuminated in red and blue; Kelly Murdoch, Lynette Fejo, Eliot Sanger; Genevieve Plummer, Ronen Ghosh, Megan Hoult (Ferguson), Glenn Bancroft, Mike Smith, Rajah Supramaniam; Matthew Davis, Craig Brackenbury, Paul Isaacs, Andrew Davies, Tina Green.

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

Class of 1986

42

A cacophony of excited chatting and laughter enveloped the Kirribilli Club on 19 March when ninety-six 1986ers gathered to celebrate their 30-year reunion. Pushing through the crowded sea of smiling faces, people struck up conversations again and again in a daze of happy familiarity.

The upbeat ambience was illuminated with red and blue candles, lights and balloons, created by Gaille Smith (Yeates) and Jodie Eliott (Conomos), and a reminiscent 80s sound track mixed by our alumni DJs, Nathan Heinrich and Darren Robertson.

Many folk travelled far to attend the special event, including Lynette Fejo from Darwin and Tina Green, who had an amazing experience; airlift rescued from the shipwrecked Aurora Australis in Antarctica and arriving in Sydney after a long journey.

Time enhances the feelings of support and love between us and we all wished the night wouldn’t end so soon.

During the evening we paused and shared memories at a candle memorial to classmates lost. Some folks kicked on afterwards and rumour has it, they enjoyed watching a beautiful sunrise the next morning.

Thank you to the wonderful staff at Barker - Karina Drummond and Mandy Loomes for all your help with planning and logistics.

We look forward to our next reunion and encourage everyone in our year to come along. Photos are on our private Facebook page to share and enjoy: www.facebook. com/groups/1986barkercollege.

The Reunion Team

COMMUNITY EVENTS

OBA GROUPS

Events

Groups

Japan Regional

Barker Old Girls Club

Barker held its first official Japan reunion in Tokyo on a cool spring evening in April, at a yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) venue in Shimbashi, central Tokyo. The Head of Barker College and Mandy Loomes were in Japan to support the long-established sister school relationship with Sugao Junior and Senior High School, and were joined at the dinner by the chief of their International Department, Shigetoshi Soejima. We were delighted that he could join us.

What marked this event for me personally was that it was the first time that I knew none of the other alumni, and that the range in dates at Barker was so wide that almost no one knew anyone else from their school days.

From this century were Shizuka Yamaguchi (05) and Ross Cameron (03), and from the last century, Jito Rai (92) and Gen Watabe (1984). There was also me, from 1970.

But that all changed when we realised we had so much in common (too many details to share, in fact).

There have been times when all of us who have walked out of the Mint Gates, in this case a long way, have thought of our Barker experience as being located in a

44

Bill Coaldrake (70)

Lauren Kirkby (07) and Jordana Shawyer (06)

Barker Old Boys Barker Old Boys Cricket Club experienced another

The club awards went to the following players:

successful season in last summer’s City & Suburban Cricket

Season 2015/16 MVP

Sam Haeney (05)

On Saturday 13 February 2016, a number of old boys from the Class of 1961 enjoyed a peaceful reunion watching the Barker 1st XI play on No. 1 Oval while enjoying a very casual afternoon tea. The weather was excellent, we could not have asked for better! A number had travelled long distances including Bruce Higham, Dennis Johnson and Bruce Clydsdale (country NSW), Jim Poulos (Ballina), Dick Hill (WA), Phil Benjamin and David Seeto (Queensland), and Peter Nott (California, USA).

It’s amazing how the long lead time could be a trigger for a fear of event failure. This has been a positive lesson about life. Those who thanked me told me we all should try things that lie outside our comfort zone! The Head of Barker College, Phillip Heath, wandered over and gave us a welcome and news of Barker’s plans for the future. Most of us ended up at The Blue Gum following the Cricket. Many agreed to have the next reunion in three years’ time!

competition. A total of 44 players donned the BOBs cap this

Batsman of the Year

Sam Haeney (05)

year, with a core squad forming for each of the Jack Pace

Bowler of the Year

Jackson Brackin (12)

competition rounds.

Fielder of the Year

Tom Burnett (05)

Most Improved

Henry Adams (05)

John Meagher (61) Reunion Convenor

• Thomas Burnett, who scored 245 runs at an average of 30.63.

The club performed admirably throughout the Jack Pace Memorial Shield Competition, qualifying for the finals in third

The club wishes to express its gratitude to all staff at Barker

position. We once again were drawn against the competition

and the OBA who contributed in various ways towards our

heavyweights in I Zingari for the quarters and Cricketer’s Club

season’s success. Particular mention goes to Steve Thomlinson

of NSW in the semi-final. Unfortunately, we bowed out at this

and the school’s grounds staff for organising and presenting a

stage of the tournament, with a number of players unavailable.

truly incredible oval for us to play on throughout the year.

It must be noted that Tom Burnett played one of the finest

Please check future publications of the Old Barker magazine

innings in club history, amassing 108 and almost getting us

if you are interested in getting involved, training, trialing or

over the line from an impossible position.

playing with BOBs cricket.

A number of players were added to the BOBs Honour Board this year, including: • Thomas Burnett (108 vs Cricketer’s Club of NSW), Sam Haeney (111 vs St George Veterans) and Ben Bryant (116 vs Kings Old Boys), who all scored centuries this season.

• Sam Haeney becoming the second BOB to reach 400 runs in a season, with 401 runs at an average of 57.29.

• Jackson Brackin claimed an impressive 15 wickets at an average of 14.80.

Matt Hall (00) Club Captain 0416 297 775 matt.hall19@icloud.com

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

Barker Class of 1961

somewhat remote time and place. However, this reunion changed that: our past and the school’s Hornsby location are no longer different settings, after we heard from Phillip Heath about the strategic changes going on at Barker to reposition itself globally. We look forward to contributing.

It’s been another wonderful season for the Barker Old Girls Netball Club. We finished the season on a high, with two teams playing in the Summer Night Competition Grand Final. Barker Old Girls 1 went into the competition undefeated, but came up against a strong Mount St Benedict team. After a back-and-forth first half, the team managed to pull ahead in the third quarter, creating a strong lead and eventually winning the game 29-19, to much relief.

Barker Old Girls 3 unfortunately was pipped at the post in their game, losing to Pennant Hills 24-28. This was a new team this year and we are so proud of the girls for their hard work during the season.

We now look forward to tackling the Saturday winter competition with a team composed of both new and old club members. The Spring Night Competition begins in early October and we are taking registrations of interest. If you would like to play, please email us at barkeroldgirlsnetball@gmail.com See you out on the courts!

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COMMUNITY EVENTS

Groups Old Barker

With 2016 being an Olympic Games year, we are excited about watching the Athletics events from Rio later in August. Watching these elite athletes is so motivational and inspires all of us to train harder and to improve our own times out on the track.

To achieve our own goals we are well underway with our winter training, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and

Club

The highly anticipated 2016 season has so far lived up to expectation, with 17 wins across four rounds.

New signings Ciara Gregory (15) and Will Capon (15), fresh from the 2015 1st XI, have demonstrated both skill and the rigour of youth in their first games for OBFC. The women’s team has risen to the challenge following promotion to Division 2 under the familiar leadership of David O’Keefe, assisted by Ross Bird and co-captain Alexa Slater (11). Twentytwo registered female players, ranging from the 2009 to 2015 graduating classes, have been reunited through a collective love of football and the ‘red and blue’. Special mention must also go to the men’s Division 6 teams, who are both undefeated, so far tallying 25 goals between them in just four games, and well on the road to promotion in 2017.

Where OBFC has perhaps been most competitive is in the social arena, living up to the club motto ‘certatim socialis’.

The year began with a bang when the club was called to assemble for the season launch hosted at Kirribilli Hotel.

Great memories and fruitful friendships were fostered as players put their off-field moves to the test with varying degrees of success. Evidently the real skills lie behind the BBQ. Here, Club President, Pete Gregory (03) and Secretary, Matt Vickers (05) demonstrated their prowess to raise funds for the club on Anzac weekend, selling what was lauded as

Saturdays. If you are an old or current student that is looking to get some speed or get fit please get in touch with us.

“the best sausage sizzle ever” at Bunnings Thornleigh.

We look forward to the return of Back to Barker Day on 9 July, which will see all six of the men’s teams take on familiar

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

information.

OBA Athletics

BOBs

foes Knox United at Rosewood Oval. All are welcome on the sidelines to spectate and support what will surely be a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

Check out www.oldbarkerfc.com for further details.

Eva Akopian (11) Women’s Football Manager

our team manager Laura Handel at lauhandel@gmail.com or visit us at our Barker Old Girls Hockey Club Facebook page.

Laura Handel (06)

Barker Old Boys Rugby Club has made a great start to the 2016 Suburban Rugby Season, with several teams in position to be playing finals footy at the end of the season. With the addition of some former retirees, third and fourth grade have strengthened their numbers and as a result have played some excellent rugby in the early weeks of competition.

Colts in particular have begun the season with a bang, and it has been fantastic to see players like Luke Elzerman (13) and Nick Spencer (14) stepping up to play first grade later in the day. This year, Barker Old Boys was blessed with a large number of recent school-leavers who have shown excellence on the field and a positive attitude towards other aspects of the club, particularly on the home day barbeque. The club looks forward to holding on to these players for many years and seeing them progress to higher grades in the coming seasons.

Off the field, Barker Old Boys continue to improve their off-field training as well as on-field set up and equipment.

With the help of the OBA, Barker Old Boys has been able to purchase much-needed field dressings, ensuring the safety of players on the field while making Turramurra Oval one of the best suburban ovals.

If you haven’t been down to watch a BOBRUFC game in a few years, don’t wait any longer – there isn’t a more entertaining way to spend a Saturday afternoon in winter.

To keep up to date with all things BOBRUFC, please follow our Facebook page: Barker Old Boys RUFC. Liam Flanagan (03) Secretary

OBA

OBA

OBAT will return to Barker theatres in style for the third time in July, with Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest.

We’ve been hard at work, keeping Barker security awake with our rehearsals for the third year running. Presidents Amie McNee (10) and Cassandra Jones (10) are on board this year as directors, and we’ve got a stellar cast and crew of old and new alumni faces.

Performance details are as follows: When: Wed 13 July, Fri 15 July and Sat 16 July.

Where: Rhodes Theatre, R E Kefford Building, Barker College.

Time: 7:30pm Tickets available via Trybooking.com/llls So let your hair down, get Wilde and come along this July to support a fantastic group of old boys and girls in silly costumes. We look forward to seeing you!

The OBA Big Band has officially ventured beyond the walls of Barker College, performing in our local community.

Early in May, the whole room was down on the dance floor as we performed for The Novus Foundation. The Foundation aims to support youth in the Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai district, concentrating on matters which impact young people and their ability to perform to their natural level.

After our presence in the limelight, the OBA Big Band is now booked for another private event – a 50th birthday party.

With boogie fresh in our veins, the OBA Big Band should have no trouble blowing the roof off the house.

All in all, the OBA Big Band is very focused on its future, and we are sure you will be seeing a lot of us very soon.

If you would like to contact the OBA Big Band, please contact us at OBA_bigband@barker.nsw.edu.au

Amie McNee (10) & Cassandra Jones (10)

Luke Davis (09) OBA Big Band Representative

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

Barker Old Girls Hockey Club have kicked off the 2016 winter competition with a tied result for their first game and a 3-2 win for their second game against Sydney Uni 6. The season ahead for our first division team will be a competitive one, with strong entries from UTS and Mirrabooka. However, our Barker Old Girls are training hard on Thursday nights on Bowman to ensure they maintain their top four finish, as they have done in the last five years. We have welcomed five new girls to our first division team who have already shown their experience on the field, especially when it comes to short corner penalty goals. We also have a new goalie this year, with Laura Handel (06) stepping into goals for the team. She will be working on her goalie skills by training with Barker Old Girls coach Robbert-Paul and also Anthony Thornton, who is currently working with the Russian hockey national team. We are hoping for another successful hockey winter season.

If anyone is interested in joining Barker Old Girls Hockey Club, we are always looking for new players so please contact

Contact Glen Parker glen@retailsystems.com.au) for more

Tim Willatt (07)

Barker Old Girls

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OBA GROUPS

OBA

47

PERSONAL NOTES

Notes

Ryan Yeomans (09) was married on Saturday 30 April 2016 to Claire Jackman of St Ives. The wedding ceremony was held at the chapel of Pymble Ladies’ College,

(Number in brackets is the alumni year)

with the reception afterwards at Ripples, Chowder Bay. Joey Meynink was best man, and groomsmen were Stuart Wall

Four Barker 1948 classmates, aged

husband, Bryan. We’ll celebrate 28

85, attended the 61st Medicine Reunion

years of marriage this October. Our

Farrugia on September 19 2015 at St

at the Royal Sydney Golf Club recently:

daughter lives in London and our son

Anne’s Anglican Church Ryde. His

Drs Brian Learoyd, George Chapman,

lives in Melbourne. I’ve worked as a

brother Tim (97) was best man, with

David Shenstone and Frank Lang. In

Literacy/Numeracy teacher (primary,

Winston Khong (00) a groomsman.

1949, a total of 610 students started

secondary and tertiary education), a

Other guests included Michelle

Med I and of the 135 graduates (22 per

recruitment consultant, a PA and in

Macarthur-King (Parker 00), James

cent) in 1955, there are 30 left, so they

administration. I’m now a published

and Sarah-Kate (Makila 00) Dakin and

are having annual reunions now.

author of historical fiction with Penguin

Ian Joyner (73). Adam Cole (91) was, by

Random House Australia (www.

coincidence, the wedding photographer.

vandavadas.com).

The reception was held at Sydney

Sophie Jackson (83) I have been in the UK for the past 10 years, now in Cambridge. I’m a Senior Lecturer at the Cambridge School of Art, teaching

Dan McAlpin (00) married Natalie

and Chris Thomas, along with musician Mark Harding (all 09). Claire’s bridesmaids included Kate Buchanan (12). The couple honeymooned at Port Douglas and will be living in Lane Cove.

Ian Moyes (72 and former Sportsmaster) is teaching Health Science and PDHPE subjects at ACU and WSU, as well as teaching and mentoring in-service teachers in two major motivation and physical activity projects (AMPED and iPLAY), funded by the Australian Research Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council. He continues to coach rugby at Eastwood Rugby Club.

Anne Moyes (former staff member and well known to many Barker families) teaches Kindergarten at Hornsby North Primary School.

Anthony Moyes (98) is a teacher at Caddies Creek Primary School and has three children. Anthony holds the record for refereeing the most IRB Rugby Sevens games and has now been appointed to officiate at the Rio Olympics.

PERSONAL NOTES

Family

Timothy Moyes (00) is a Year 5 teacher at Barker Junior School and continues to make a valuable contribution both in the classroom and on the sports field. Tim also has three children.

Anne and Ian now have eight grandchildren, with daughter Katie Conroy also having two.

Rowing Club, Abbotsford and the bridal couple have made their home in Hornsby. Dan’s father Ian McAlpin was a staff member from 1981 to 1996.

film and television. As my two girls get a little more independent at 8 and 11,

Ryan Yeomans (09) and Claire Jackman’s wedding party.

I’m venturing back into making my own films, last summer making a short film with Arts Council funding that is slated Left to right: Brian Learoyd, George Chapman, David Shenstone and Frank Lang.

Matt Howard (77) Working and living in Singapore since 2014. Over the last two years, I have built a 120km fibre optic network that spans Singapore.

Now moving on to building large-scale, highly energy efficient data centres in the region.

Four former Barker 1sts Volleyball

to screen on Channel 4 sometime soon.

captains represented NSW at the Beach

Other than the perpetually grey skies,

Volleyball National Youth Championships

and being a long way from family and

held at Glenelg Beach, South Australia

friends, Cambridge is great.

in April 2016. They were: Brad Wall (12), Tom Steele (14), and Ed Huxley (15) in

Michael King (91) and Saskia Brown (99) welcomed their son Hunter Taj Michael King into the world on 20 December 2015.

Dan McAlpin (00) and Natalie Farrugia’s wedding party.

Sam Pursell (01) and his wife Susan Left to right: Brad Wall (12), Tom Steele (14), Ed Huxley (15) and Angus Mackay (15).

who was christened by Sam himself on

I’m currently living on the Gold Coast

Sunday 17 April (also Sam’s birthday).

in Queensland with my wonderful

Sam was ordained as an Anglican Priest

by The Bishop of Tasmania, The Right Reverend John Harrower, at St David’s Cathedral in Hobart.

Baptisms Weddings Baptisms 14 February Olivia, daughter of Kirsty and Jason Prior (05) 13 March Liam Geoffrey, son of Lauren and Tristan Brown (05) 3 April Sarah Jane, daughter of Joanna (Reid 01) and Tim Poole (00)

Michael King (91) and Saskia Brown (99) with their son Hunter Taj Michael King.

Left to right: Simon (15), Scott (11), Bishop Harrower, Sam (01) and Susan.

Weddings

10 April Lucy Anne, daughter of Katrina and David Sheppard (95)

2 April Jessica Jongens and Ben Piccin (08)

10 April Hunter Callan and Carter James, sons of Kristy and James Buist (94)

9 April Alyssa Khor and Daniel Poppleton (09)

17 April Richard David, son of Alison and Justin Charlesworth (00)

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

U19s.

have had a son, Edward John Pursell,

Vanda Vadas (Tadzik 80)

48

the U23s and Angus Mackay (15) in the

49

OBITUARIES

(Number in brackets is the alumni year)

Robert Charles Bland (41)

50

Robert Charles Bland (Bob) was born in Kensington. Two years later his family moved to Clarke Road, where the Barker College tennis courts are today. In 1927 the area was far from suburbia and Bob grew up riding billy carts, shooting rabbits and playing games in the streets.

Bob’s parents were committed Christians and the family became heavily involved in the local church, St Pauls, Wahroonga, where Bob was a faithful parishioner for the next 88 years.

His education was initially in Eastwood and Stanmore, before he attended Barker College for his final two years and attained his Leaving Certificate in 1941. A few years of indecision followed before he enrolled in Architecture at Sydney University; he graduated with Honours in 1949.

He commenced work with a private firm, and pursued various public and private projects over the next 15 years.

He married Dorothy in 1949 and the couple began their 66-year union, which had them reside continuously within a 4 km radius of Barker College. Four children arrived over the next 8 years – Penelope, Judith, Barbara and Peter (74).

In 1963, Bob ceased private practice and became the Executive Architect at Sydney University, with responsibility for the acquisition of properties around the University and the development of a strategic masterplan for the institution.

He retired from that position in 1986.

In 1975, Bob joined the Council of Barker College, where his visionary thinking and planning skills were quickly recognised by Headmasters Trevor McCaskill, Neil Tucker and Rod Kefford. Bob was Chairman of the Building Committee from 1984-1996.

Ironically, this included the purchase and demolition of his former family home in Clarke Road.

During Bob’s time on Council, several building projects were completed or planned, including the Hornsby Hundred Building, McCaskill Music Centre, Science Building and redevelopment of the Boarding Houses. In recognition of his contribution, the road around Number 1 Oval was named Robert Bland Drive.

In 1997, he retired from Council but his connection with Barker College continued with two grandsons, Timothy (06) and Jonathan (08), completing their secondary education at the alma mater.

Bob died peacefully on 3 March and is survived by Dorothy, Penelope, Judith, Peter (74) and 10 grandchildren.

Doug had four children from two marriages, Sarah (Jenkins) and Rachel (Hill) from the first, and Claire Blazey (02) and Angus Blazey (03) from the second. He has four grandchildren, Jack, Amber, Declan and Charlotte.

Doug topped the State in Biology in 1957, and went on to graduate in Agricultural Science from Sydney University. This led him into a lifelong career with Yates Seeds. Until the mid1970s, he was the only plant breeder in the company and in June 2001 received the Graham Gregory Award for Excellence in Horticulture. All in all, a very distinguished career in Agronomy in Australia and throughout the world.

Doug was a member of the 1st XI in 1956 and 1957. After leaving Barker, he played both grade cricket and baseball and achieved a standard well above average in all facets of both games.

He was a good team man in both work and play.

He will be missed by all who knew him.

Colin Creed-Smith (former Barker teacher) 1955-2016

Ian James Giles (51) 1933-2016

Robert Carson Crawford (56) 1939-2016

Douglas Alexander Lloyd Blazey (57) 1940-2016

Born in Cootamundra, Doug is survived by his brothers John (56) and Phil (59). Doug died on 29 February 2016 in Narromine after a long fight against cancer.

Robert Crawford, late of Normanhurst, attended Barker College from 1952–1956 as a boarder. His brother Geoffrey (58), son Oliver (92), son-in-law John Turner (88) and grandson William (Year 5) are also Barker boys.

Robert achieved his Leaving Certificate in 1956, then joined the National Service for one year.

In 1970 Rob married Alison and had

Colin was born in England, with his formative years spent in the Northumberland countryside. He did well at school and attended the state selective Bedlington Grammar School.

He studied French, Latin, Philosophy and Education at Leicester University, and spent three years teaching in Leicestershire before moving to Kent.

Here he met and married Meredith, and in 1985 left England, moving to Meredith’s old stomping ground on Sydney’s North Shore.

Colin spent Term 3 of 1985 at Barker College and in 1987 took up a permanent position in Barker’s Languages Department, becoming Department Head in 1994.

Colin had a passion for teaching languages. He oversaw the languages laboratory upgrade and introduced computers into the classroom. He organised school trips to New Caledonia,

Ian Giles, late of Mona Vale, attended Barker as a boarder from 1945 to 1951.

At Barker, Ian was a keen sportsman.

He was captain of the athletics team in 1951 and was awarded the College Cup. Ian was in the 1st XV rugby team in 1950 and 1951. He received colours in both athletics and rugby. In 1950, Ian also served on the College Barker editorial committee.

Following Barker, Ian joined Shell Australia before being called up for National Service (2nd intake – Ingleburn).

In 1956, Ian transferred to Shell Refining (Australia) and was OIC pay and records; employment officer; and supervisor fire prevention, safety and security at the oil refinery in Clyde. Ian married and had two children. He was a very proud and supportive father of David, who was a representative rugby player at state level and represented Australia in yachting in four Olympic Games

(Barcelona to Athens), receiving a bronze medal in Atlanta. He was also proud of his daughter Susan, who played representative netball at state level. His second wife, Patricia, was Pittwater Mayor for six-and-a-half years and attributes his kindness and support to her success in this role, for which she was awarded an OAM Australia Day 2006 for service to local government and to the community of Pittwater. In Patricia’s words, “Ian was a true gentleman and a credit to Barker College.”

Ian passed away on 2 February 2016 and is survived by his wife Patricia, children David and Susan, and his six step-children and their families.

Frank Robert Hilliers (47) 1928-2016

Frank Hilliers, late of Gordon, attended Barker from 1941 to 1945.

At Barker, Frank was a member of the scout troop and a Lance Corporal in the Cadet Unit. He was a member of the athletics team in 1945, winning the open handicap 220 and 440 yard races.

Following Barker, Frank worked in various jobs. He was a salesman before working in hospitals, where he became a wardsman and an orderly before his most rewarding and enduring career as an enrolled nurse. Although there weren’t many male nurses, Frank’s compassionate nature aligned well with this caring profession and his large frame was put to good use lifting and moving patients. He worked at Concord Repatriation Hospital, Lady Davidson Hospital and the Red Cross, providing care for returned servicemen.

Frank was a devoted husband and father. He married his wife Pamela at Christ Church St Lawrence and they had six children, Frank, Graham (deceased), twins Mark and Grace, Michelle, and Genie (deceased), and adopted his wife’s first child, Kathy.

One of his greatest hobbies was watching films from the 1940s and 1950s and he was also a connoisseur of fine arts. He received many letters in response to ones he wrote in appreciation of performances to the artistic director

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

1925-2016

France and Germany, and to Barker’s sister school in Sugao, Japan. In 2007, his name was added to the staff Common Room in recognition of his 20 years of service. Tragically, his career was cut short in 2011 when he was diagnosed with Lymphoma in the brain and suffered a stroke. Thankfully, his language ability was not affected and he was still able to speak Geordie, standard English, French, German and Latin.

Colin loved the good things in life: friends, wine, food, music, football, grammar, prose, poetry, art, television and cinema. He loved beautiful gardens and gardening and, in later life, developed an appreciation of the superior sensibilities of felines. He had a very active and keen mind and, whatever the topic, enjoyed the rigours of a good debate.

Colin passed away on 3 March 2016 and is survived by his wife, Meredith; mother, Emily; sister and brother-in-law, Marion and Ray; sister-in-law Bronwyn and her husband, Chris; niece and nephew, Lisa and Michael; grand-nieces and nephew, Sophie, Rachel and Adam; and his god-children, Susanna Sowden and Brendan Potter.

OBITUARIES

Obituaries

two children, Sarah and Oliver (92), before moving to Orange. In Orange, Robert was the Practice Manager of a Doctor’s surgery for a number of years, all the while wishing to be his own boss.

In 1981, that desire came to fruition when he bought a florist business for himself and Alison to run. Seeing the success of this business, he went on to purchase an art gallery and another florist.

In 1986, they purchased property on Mt Canobolas, which was replanted to grow grape vines and named Forest Edge.

He had finally found his true happiness: on the land, with his family, making wine!

Rob’s passion was passed down to his son, Oliver, who in turn, became a successful winemaker.

Rob is survived by his wife, Alison; children Sarah and Oliver; and grandchildren, William, Hamish, James and Edwina. He died on 21 February 2016.

51

OBITUARIES

David Howard Holt (43) 1925-2015

Abbotsford with his second wife, Kay, also widowed. There they enjoyed their garden apartment near the river, and they travelled to Europe, Asia and the South Pacific, as well as in Australia.

David’s interests included photography, tennis, golf, gardening and playing the harmonica. In recent years he was an enthusiastic member of the Barker Over 70s club.

David died on 16 September 2015 and is survived by his wife Kay; daughters Amanda, Jennifer and Vanessa; grandchildren Reuben and Rosabella; and stepchildren Paul, Michael and Claire and their families.

John Harry Justice (48)

David Holt, late of Abbotsford, attended Barker from 1939 to 1941 as a boarder. While at Barker, David was a member of the Junior Orchestra, swam in the U16s Championships, enjoyed playing rugby, and was a member of the Cadet Unit.

On leaving school he worked as a clerk with a Sydney stockbroker for two years, then joined the RAAF just after his 18th birthday. He was posted to PNG, based in Lae, where he served as a cypher operator until his discharge as a Corporal in May 1946.

After completing his matriculation, David obtained a position with the Defence Research Laboratories as an industrial radiographer. Subsequently, he moved into medical radiography, and trained at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, from where he graduated in 1954. He worked in this field for many years. He particularly enjoyed his years at the Ryde District Hospital, where he was Chief Radiographer of the Radiology Department, retiring from this position in 1995. David was also active as a committee member of the NSW Branch of the Australian Institute of Radiographers.

David and his wife Ruth built their home in West Pymble, where they raised their three daughters. David remained there after he was widowed in 1996.

He remarried in 1999, and moved to

John ‘Jack’ Justice, late of Hammondville, attended Barker as a boarder from 1943 to 1948. At Barker, John was a keen sportsman, winning the Open 440 yards handicap race in athletics. He was also a member of the 1st XI cricket team in 1947 and 1948. He also played in the 3rd XV in 1948. He did the Leaving Certificate twice and was part of the Class of 47 and 48. He often attended reunions for both!

He attended Sydney Teachers College and gained his teaching diploma. His first appointment was to Holbrook Central School. While living and working in Holbrook, John met Denise, his future wife.

John married Denise Kelly on 4 January 1958 in the Barker Chapel, the third wedding to be held there. His was the first christening at the Barker Chapel, as he was christened, as an adult, a few days before his wedding.

John made his home with Denise in Lakemba and continued his teaching career at schools at Bexley, Jannali East, Lakemba and Georges Hall. He finished his career as the Principal of Greenacre Public School and retired in 1990.

John also worked for the Adult Migrant Education Service for over 20 years at Marrickville West.

John Lionel Mansfield (68) 1949-2016

John was born in New Guinea on 2 September 1949, the son of Lionel and Marjorie Mansfield (both deceased).

John attended boarding school at Barker College from Year 5 to Year 9 and was a member of the Class of 1968.

John was the older brother of Robert (69) and Christopher (73), who also attended Barker. John’s religious conviction was developed during his time at Barker and he recently mentioned the comfort of having fellow Christians in the home where he spent his last days.

After leaving school, he tried a number of career possibilities, but finally settled in a career as a medical orderly in the health system. It was there that he met his wife, Barbara Jane (now deceased). They had no children.

John had a caring disposition and one of his greatest pleasures was helping others – no matter how small the task.

He always felt that he had a lot of friends, and was renowned at staying in contact with them over many years.

John passed away peacefully in surrounds that he was comfortable in on 28 January 2016.

2016 OBA

Meeting

Notice is hereby given that the 108th Annual General Meeting of the Old Barker Association Inc. will be held in the Marks Pavilion, Barker College, Hornsby on Tuesday 19 July 2016 at 6:30pm Agenda 1. Apologies 2. Confirmation of Minutes of the 107th Annual General Meeting of the Old Barker Association Inc. held on 21 July 2015.

3. President’s Report 4. Honorary Treasurer’s Report 5. Report by the Head of Barker College, Mr Phillip Heath.

6. To receive and consider the Income and Expenditure Report for the financial year 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016, together with the Balance Sheet at that date.

7. To receive and consider the Annual Statement to be lodged with the Department of Fair Trading for the year to 30 June 2016.

8. Appointment of Patron(s), and election of Office Bearers and Committee Members comprising: President, Vice President/s, Honorary Treasurer, Honorary Secretary/ Public Officer, Assistant Honorary Secretary, eight (8) ordinary members. Refer note below.

The of Being Earnest

9. Appointment of Representative to the School Council – Mr Tony Gamson has been nominated for a three (3) year term. Refer note below.

10. Appointment of Honorary Auditor.

11. Other Business permitted to be raised pursuant to clause 31(2) of the Constitution. .

By Order of the Committee, David Brookes, Honorary Secretary Note: In accordance with the requirement of Clause 29(2) of the Constitution any further nominations are hereby called and shall be in writing, signed by a Member of the Association, endorsed by the candidate and lodged with the Honorary Secretary at least twenty-one (21) days prior to the meeting in compliance with Clause 29(3). Any nominee must be a financial member of the OBA.

OBAT are performing Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest.

Performance details are as follows: When: Wed 13 July, Fri 15 July & Sat 16 July Where: Rhodes Theatre, R E Kefford Building, The Avenue, Barker College Time: 7:30pm Cost: $15 for adults, $10 for students & concession Tickets available via Trybooking.com: www.trybooking.com/llls

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

THE OLD BARKER | WINTER 2016

1930-2015

John always enjoyed sport and played competition and social tennis regularly throughout his life.

After retiring, John and Denise travelled to various places around Australia and John continued casual teaching as a hobby. He enjoyed getting back into the classroom after many years in the office as a principal.

He also enjoyed being part of the Barker Over 70s and attended many of their functions.

In 1999 John was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which he successfully managed with medication.

Unfortunately, as the disease progressed his mobility was affected, and he was unable to continue with many of the activities he enjoyed.

John passed away on 16 May 2015 and is survived by his wife of 57 years, Denise; children, Sharon and David; and grandchildren, Daniel, Bradley, Georgia and Denise.

OBA EVENTS

of the Australian Ballet, various actors and performers from the Lincoln Centre of Performing Arts in New York, and a ballerina from The Australian Opera.

Frank passed away on 30 January 2016 and is survived by his children and their families.

52

OBA Annual

continued...

When: Tuesday 13 September Where: Pennant Hills Golf Club, 11.00am RSVP: 2 September All welcome – friends, colleagues, clients For more information or to book please contact: Mandy Loomes 9847 8229 or Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

53

Events 2016 Class Reunions 1991 – 25 Year Reunion Sat 15 Oct Facebook Group: Barker College Class of 1991 1956 – 60 Year Reunion Wed 19 Oct Bob Hill 0413 483 520 bobhill839@gmail.com 1976 – 40 Year Reunion Sat 22 Oct John McBride john.mcbride@live.com.au Rick Nelmes nelmes@bigpond.net.au 1981 – 35 Year Reunion Sat 29 Oct Jenni-Lee Williams (Lennon) jennilee13@mac.com 0412 412 726 1996 – 20 Year Reunion Sat 29 Oct Michael Mason 0418 233 935 Jothy Hughes 0455 494 409 Anthony Chambers 0416 218 598 Robyn Lloyd (Foxcroft) 0402 029 231 barker96reunion@gmail.com

2006 – 10 Year Reunion Sat 17 Dec Nicole Meyer nicolepmeyer@hotmail.com Nat Ware nathanielware@gmail.com

OBA Events OBA Committee Meeting Tues 19 July Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au OBA Golf Day Tues 13 Sept Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au OBA Committee Meeting Tues 11 Oct Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au OBA Annual Dinner Fri 4 Nov Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au

Over 70s Events Over 70s/Leslie’s Men Lunch/ Rugby and AGM Sat 30 July Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 Mandy_Loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au Regional Events Canberra Event Fri 11 Nov Andrew McColl (74) 0422 985 281 mccoll@grapevine.net.au 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!

Privacy

Photos

Due to changes in Privacy Legislation we are required to inform you that your contact details may be shared with OBA reunion organisers with the strict guidelines that they are only to be used for the purposes of organising your OBA reunion. Please contact the Alumni Office if you wish to keep your details private.

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.