The Barker 112 Spring 2016 by Barker College

Spring 2016 Issue 112 ISSN: 2204-938X

Teaching & Learning Developing Capacity in Educators

Alumni Profile Adrienne Stone

Visual Arts Success at the Mosman Youth Art Prize 2016

CONTENTS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

OED: The Larapinta Trail

The Regulars 04 Darkinjung Barker 06 Prep School 08 Junior School 12 Middle and Senior School 24 Drama 30 Sport 40 The Old Barker The Features 10 Teaching & Learning Developing Capacity in Educators 20 Alumni Profile Adrienne Stone 26 VIsual Arts Success at the Mosman Youth Art Prize 2016

Barker College Foundation

Issue 112 Spring 2016 The Barker is the quarterly magazine of Barker College

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

Editor-in-Chief Mr Phillip Heath Editor Glenn Quevedo 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

Year 10 Play

FROM THE HEAD

Mr Phillip Heath Head of Barker College

Strive to Provide

honoured. A vibrant community that strives to provide offers a wonderful opportunity to contribute to others. 7. Steady and consistent improvement is demonstrated through the challenge of meeting deadlines, completing assessment events, performing in music or drama tasks, competing in sports or aiming higher than last time. Students learn to balance conflicting demands on their schedule. 8. Commitment is enhanced when the impact of our frailties are made more evident by their impact on others. The contemporary impulse towards individualistic experience, which can isolate a person from their peers, is challenged by creating group or team events. 9. There is overwhelming evidence that many people cease being part of teams in their years beyond school. They often no longer participate in organised sports, music or drama group events and they substantially reduce their voluntarism to community groups. Once again, there is strong evidence that connects voluntarism with sound mental health. School years are the time when such things are learned and when such things become habits. 10. The soul of Barker College is dedicated to seeing each student thrive. It is our heritage, our identity and our solemn purpose under God. When such things are provided, we are fulfilling our Mission as an Anglican school that is dedicated to educating the Whole Person in a community as a Leader in Christian Education. We are honouring the charter set before generations ago when the Rev Henry Plume opened the little school in Kurrajong. The pages that follow celebrate the Great Cause of a Barker College experience. I continue to be inspired by the students, staff, parents, Council, OBA and supporter groups who make these marvellous things possible. Peace Phillip Heath Head of Barker College

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he pages that follow offer a glimpse into a busy winter season of sports, activities and classroom endeavours. The School continues to provide an inspiring experience for students, parents and staff alike and the past months engaged the community with the usual levels of challenging commitment. Why do we make such an effort to attempt quite so much? Here are the top ten reasons to strive to provide a balanced education, one in which the classroom, the concert hall, the theatre and the sports field are all in harmony with one another: 1. A strong school will educate the mind, the heart, the body and the soul in harmony with each other. This will require students constantly to try new things. God made us to be intellectually creative, physical and spiritual beings. 2. The years of childhood to adulthood are times of rapid physical and neurological development. The experiences provided in these years have a lasting impact on the formation of the mind. 3. By the end of the years of formal school education, each student should know themselves really well. They need to know their talents, their passions, their distastes and their intrinsic strengths. They can only do so by experiencing a wide range of challenges. 4. There is overwhelming research to show that strong engagement with school and other community groups leads to better mental health. Young people need to be provided with opportunities to thrive. 5. Experiences of the kind celebrated in this edition provide students with a point of social connection. It is ironic that this is the most inter-connected yet isolated generation in human history, with so much of their social contact being technological. 6. Students need to know how they contribute. We are made to live in a community and the contribution that each person makes to the community needs to be valued and

FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Chairman’s Ian Miller Chairman

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n developing the School’s mission and vision over the past two years, along with a Facilities Master Plan, the School Council has been again challenged by the question: what are the key aspects of the life of Barker College which must be maintained in our everchanging educational environment? Clearly, the fundamental reason for our being is to ensure that each of our students is challenged each day at Barker College in whatever they undertake, both within the classroom and outside it. Our objective is also to ensure that each of our students leave Barker College with the confidence that they can contribute to our community and the wider world, using the gifts and skills they have been able to develop while here. We see that our Christian basis, together with our individualised pastoral care and commitment to academic excellence, is fundamental to achieving these outcomes. It gives each student the confidence to enjoy the academic program (and to be encouraged through personal challenges), and to be involved in the various co-curricular programs. Academic performance is an area the School Council monitors regularly and through the work of Mr Jeremy von Einem, our Director of Academic Performance, the Council is devoting significant resources to this. Our preparation and forward planning has also been strengthened by Mr Heath’s appointment of Mrs Sue Field to oversee the strategic decisions which need to be made over the next few years. Within this range of activities, we seek to foster each student’s enjoyment of healthy competition in all aspects of learning, whether inside the classroom or on the field. At the same time, this competitive spirit should not detract from the support and care each student should have for the needs of others within the school community, so that we all develop a sense of working for the common good.

This spirit of support is also manifest among our staff and parents, who contribute so greatly to the life of the Barker Community. In reviewing our fundamental commitments to education, the School Council does see the continuing need for change in content, delivery and expectation, to ensure we are meeting the expectations of students and parents. For this we have commissioned a series of studies into various aspects of the life of the school, and I appreciate your preparedness to be involved. The school has just completed its five-year accreditation program with the NSW Board of Studies. The results were outstanding, with positive comments in relation to the range of programs offered here and the manner of delivery. Our NAPLAN results also show the strength of our programs. As I attend various events through the school and work with the Head of Barker College, Mr Phillip Heath, and our senior staff, I see our spirit of caring and support evident across the school community, along with a commitment to upholding our fundamental principles. Barker provides an exciting, challenging and always inspiring community in which we all play a vital role. May I say thank you for your continuing support and partnership in this community. Paul writes in his letter to the Philippians: “I thank my God every time I mention you in my prayers. I’m thankful for all of you every time I pray, and it’s always a prayer full of joy. I’m glad because of the way you have been my partners in the Ministry of the Gospel…” (Chapter 1:3-5) Similarly, I am very joyful and thankful for your support and partnership in all that we strive to accomplish at Barker College under God. Ian Miller Chairman

FROM THE CHAPLAIN

Breanna and David Cave (00) had their second daughter christened in the Barker Chapel, their spiritual home, before heading off to the UK in early August. They were married here in 2008.

seems to be an increasing number who – for one reason or another – find that hard to do and wish to maintain their connection even after their student, teaching or parenting days at Barker have come to an end. It seems that many are looking to maintain their links to the school and want to name it as their ‘spiritual home’. They appreciate that we are open, inclusive and welcoming, dedicated to upholding the dignity of all people, comfortable in wrestling with difficult questions, slow to give easy answers, outward-looking and generous. That’s what we are, or at least what we seek to be. We’re based on ‘grace’, on acknowledging the blessings and forgiveness we’ve experienced personally, and reflecting that in the way that we treat other people. Isn’t that the way of Jesus? It’s how we see it. This isn’t everyone. But if you want to consider Barker your ‘spiritual home’, wonderful, we understand that desire. For our part, we love having you with us, hearing from you and hearing about you; please let us know if we can ever be of support and we will do what we can. Jeff Ware School Chaplain

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

ear 12 may be excused for being a little bit sentimental at the moment. They are enjoying their last days at school. I’ve heard lots of comments like these: ‘I’ve spent more than half my life at Barker.’ ‘I’m going to miss everyone and everything so much.’ And, ‘This is my home, my spiritual home. I don’t want to leave.’ In the early phase of my time at the school, I pushed back against talk of Barker being ‘a spiritual home’ for students and staff. I encouraged them to find their way to a local church, and we built some strong partnerships with many of the outstanding youth groups and congregations in our region. We still do that. We continue with an assessment task that involves a weekend visit for Year 10, Barker Goes to Church at Easter. However, we have become more relaxed and accepting of the reality that many people do see Barker as their ‘spiritual home’. Here are extracts from a letter we received recently: ‘We were married in the Barker Chapel, our children were christened there and then attended the School. A wonderful memorial service was conducted in the chapel. It is our family church. We are thankful for that; it has been for all these years, and as far as I am concerned it will always be.’ We still try to connect our students and staff to a Christian community beyond the Mint Gates. But there

Home

DARKINJUNG BARKER

Learning outside.

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ach morning I leave my home on the Central Coast, and take the scenic journey out to our school. As I hit Yarramalong Road I am greeted with the sight of rolling hills, majestic landscapes, old farm houses and native and domestic animals, dotted throughout the paddocks. I cross the creek bridges, drive beneath low-lying trees, pass people on their morning walks and drop into the general store for my morning coffee. There, familiar folks smile and ask questions about how things are going. The Valley has taken a keen interest in our school, and locals love driving by and seeing children playing in the once-abandoned grounds. As we head into our second semester at Yarramalong, I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe where we have come from. The uncertainty initially sensed among students and teachers has evaporated into the past. The children know that school is school and we are here to learn, but within the culture of a supportive and nurturing environment. We have had many highlights throughout our first semester, and were featured on two television programs. During Term 2, Darkinjung Barker welcomed a new member of staff. Ms Sharyn Handcott joined us from Blue Haven Public School as a Teaching Assistant. Ms Hancott is a proud Aboriginal woman with a keen interest in dance and culture.

Magic Activities we have hosted include NAIDOC Week, held during the school break, and key events led by Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements. It was an opportunity to recognise the contributions that Indigenous Australians make to our country and our society. These events included a performance at The Wyong Art House by NAISDA, Family Cultural Day, NAIDOC Golf Day and finally the Darkinjung Masquerade Ball. These events were attended by many of the families from Darkinjung Barker College. Semester 1 has been a learning curve that brought everyone in the school together, within a diverse environment. From where I stand, I could not be prouder of what the Barker family, school community and Darkinjung LALC have created in such a short time. As we head into Semester 2, I look forward to watching the students grow further, both academically and socially. Our programs continue to develop with an emphasis on literacy, numeracy, cultural awareness and empathy towards our Indigenous culture. Jamie Shackleton Darkinjung Barker Campus Coordinator

DARKINJUNG BARKER

Clockwise from top Reading time; NAIDOC artwork; Learning the NAIDOC dance; A gift from Bunnings.

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PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Children Love to Ask Questions!

T THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

he questions children ask help them to make sense of their world and their place in it. As teachers, we can use their questions to promote thinking and learning. Children feel in charge of their learning when they are able to pose questions and investigate the answers. Teachers use children’s questions as a starting-point in learning. Questions promote a spirit of investigation among our young learners. In the Prep School, the staff act as colearners, working alongside the children as they learn. We endeavor to provide the time, space and resources so that the children can become deeply involved in their investigations. We encourage the children to ask questions and we make available materials and spaces that encourage curiosity, investigation and wonder.

We encourage the children to collaborate in some tasks. By doing this, they are exposed to others’ ideas and perspectives, and therefore broaden their individual understandings. We are fostering an inquiry-based approach to create a culture of investigation and active learning. We aim to create a learning environment that is supportive, encouraging, responsive and flexible. By asking openended questions, we encourage our children’s thinking. We can support them in reflecting upon and evaluating the success of their efforts. By doing this, we can begin to help children to think in more sophisticated and abstract ways. Questions from both children and adults are powerful tools! Sarah Dickson Head of Early Learning

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

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JUNIOR SCHOOL

Start to Writing! THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

This year, the whole of Barker College is committed to improving their writing. From our youngest learners to our seniors about to write their HSC papers, this PreK-12 focus on writing is having a big impact.

n our Junior School, we have examined the latest research data on the best methods to develop our writing skills. The top three research-driven approaches are explicit teaching of writing strategies, the skills of summarisation and collaborative writing. Using the Seven Steps to Writing Success framework, we have started to embed these strategies. Teachers have taught our students how to plan for success and grab the interest of the reader from the outset. A ‘sizzling start’ is how all the James Bond movies begin, and has been the starting-point for our upskilling. For example: a car chase where Bond is frantically fleeing an unknown someone, then rolls up to the valet

parking with a very damaged sports car before exiting in his dinner suit, not a scratch on him. We are immediately hooked and want to know more. In PreK-6, we have been looking at books that incorporate a sizzling start and we have explored how to use sound effects and action-packed descriptions to engage the audience. Our Sizzling Starts Competition has seen over 100 entries at Darkinjung and over 300 at Hornsby, with some lovely stories and pictures to illustrate the children’s ideas in our PreK and Prep entries. Each week at assembly, I have shared some of the amazing pieces that our students have written, and there has been a great deal of sizzling.

JUNIOR SCHOOL

No longer do we start with, ‘Last Saturday, the 11As travelled to Knox to play rugby.’ Instead, we might hear, ‘Splat! That was the sound of the 11A forward pack crashing through the Knox team, sending them skittling like pins at the bowling alley.’ It’s easy to see why we need to teach children to engage the audience and ban the boring bits. Our Professional Learning Program has ensured our staff can effectively teach these writing strategies in their classrooms. Teachers have already seen growing confidence and wonderful success in their students’ published writing. The greatest joy comes when children who were sometimes reluctant to start now have the confidence to write a sizzling start, and want to read it to you. In August, parents joined in the process, attending a parent forum and learning the power of the sizzling start. By working in partnership with our entire community, learning can be more widely supported and collectively channeled into helping children transfer their writing skills into everyday experiences. Inspiring Barker students to be better writers, and engaging them throughout the learning process, has inspired us all to join the journey towards writing with impact, passion and skill. And if you happen to see an alien around Taylor Field, it might just be the one who got away! Caroline Merrick Director of Primary Curriculum PreK-6 (PYP Coordinator)

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The Prep category in the Sizzling Starts Competition saw Mr Heath being shrunk many times, and staff and students enjoyed reading the many reasons for this. Our all-time favourite was that he wasn’t eating his vegetables, which I am sure many of the Prep parents used for dinner table reminders. We had many laughs as we read Years 3 and 4’s response to the topic, ‘Imagine you can read Mr Lubrano’s mind and you are the only one’. A few evil plans were revealed, as well as Mr Lubrano’s love of good coffee. Finally, our Years 5 and 6 students had to write a sizzling start about aliens landing on Taylor Field, and many of the teachers featured as the hero in saving the school. Luckily, no staff or students were injured in the invasion and no aliens have been seen since. Mr Olijnyk was the hero with his cricket bat, and Mrs Stokes had some library books which proved amazingly useful. However, we all laughed for days after hearing of how Mr Griffin-Miller saved the day in his amazing wooden suit of armour, crafted in our very own woodwork room. When children have the confidence to write an engaging start, they become so connected to their own story that they want to finish it. Many of the sizzling starts came in with a ‘to be continued’, hastily scribbled on the bottom and I received a number of full stories and a few published books. Such is the power of teaching students how to write with confidence, so that they want to finish their great stories. We have also seen a difference in the sports reports at assembly, which demonstrates how strongly our teaching strategies transfer into all aspects of students’ writing.

TEACHING AND LEARNING

DEVELOPING CAPACITY IN EDUCATORS Relationships

G R O W T H

GOALS REALITY

what do you need to achieve? what is happening now?

OPTIONS

what could you do?

WILL

what will you do?

TACTICS HABITS

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8 STEPS OF COACHING

how and when will you do it? how will you sustain success?

Results

BUILDING TRUST

CELEBRATING THE RESULTS

Dr Brad Merrick Director of Research in Learning and the Barker Institute Dr Greg Cunningham Director of Teaching and Learning and College of Teachers

Above The first cohort of College of Teachers coaches with the Head of Barker College.

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Coaching articulates itself in a number of areas such as coaching programmes designed to augment and enhance teaching practice or leadership coaching opportunities to develop succession planning. Educationalists have embraced coaching in all of these school contexts. As these coaching initiatives develop, school leaders also seek to establish a strategic approach to what arguably is part of the core business of schools: to develop capacity in both students and teachers. In this context, coaching is among numerous initiatives related to educational leadership, enhancing professional teaching practice, student success and wellbeing, and community (including parent) engagement. Teacher quality is clearly a critical factor in student success and coaching is known to have a positive impact on teaching practice in the classroom. Coaching focused around teaching practice can take several forms. It can be led by school leaders, by specialist instructional coaches or by teachers coaching each other in peer-based arrangements. At Barker, launching the College of Teachers in 2016 has been a significant step towards establishing a coaching culture. The College of Teachers is a professional practice arm of the Barker Institute, with Dr Greg Cunningham serving as its Director and Len Nixon as the Foundation Master Coach. It develops a system of clear coaching principles and purposes, equipping teacher coaches with coaching skills to ensure that staff are trained sufficiently to coach well. By bringing a coaching orientation to each conversation, the College provides professional educators with critical, incidental support in establishing a coaching culture. Indeed, without this orientation permeating informal conversations, more formal coaching initiatives risk being subtly undermined. What might a coaching conversation look like? From the flourishing of peer coaching in education literature, together with important insights emerging from the fields, the Growth Coaching Model (Goals, Reality, Options, Will, Tactics and Habits) provides a critical framework of coaching steps that are achievable and which, in turn, enhance self-efficacy and progress towards professional growth. Small steps also allow for tentative

TEACHING AND LEARNING

The professional coaching of teachers has grown quickly in school environments in the last 10 years.

movement in a certain direction, so that if it works, then more effort and energy can be channelled in that direction. If not, then other actions in other directions can be implemented. Harnessing the power of a school improvement strategy requires more than setting up an Above Michael Marokakis, teacher coach and action plan and Senior School Tutor. providing highquality professional development. It requires that the strategy is translated into instructional improvement by discussing collective meaning. This in turn leads to new understandings of instructional patterns, increased expectations for the kinds of tasks students can tackle and deep understanding of what creating such tasks entails. If our ultimate aim is to make the changes in instruction that will lead to improvements in student learning, we must engage in dialogue that is likely to help change practice.

MIDDLE AND SENIOR SCHOOL

EXPEDITION

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n June, 35 Year 7, 8 and 9 students made a once-ina-lifetime expedition to NASA in Houston, Texas and then the US Space and Rocket Center in Hunstville, Alabama. Mr von Einem and Mr Arnott accompanied the students as they participated in STEM-related activities and toured some amazing facilities. Across the week, we had the fantastic opportunity to speak to three space scientists. The first was Roland Nedelkovich, a chief NASA engineer who helped built parts of the International Space Station. We then met Leroy Chiao, an astronaut who has experienced more than 200 days in orbit. We threw dozens of questions at them regarding the mysteries of space, what it takes to become an astronaut, or how can we work for NASA. We then had a special opportunity to visit a private company, AdAstra, which is designing a new type of rocket engine fuelled by argon plasma that is considered to be a key to humans reaching Mars in the 2030’s. The CEO of AdAstra is seven-time astronaut Franklin Chang-Díaz (a record). During the week we also headed to Galveston’s A&M University to perform a shark dissection. We learnt about the shark’s anatomy, three types of breeding methods, and how more people get killed by vending machines than by being attacked by sharks! We visited the Johnson Space Center a number of times. This is where Mission Control is based. You might remember it from the famous lines, “Houston, we have a problem”. Seeing the enormous Saturn V rocket and the Space Shuttle was an amazing experience, as was meeting engineers who worked on the original Apollo missions. We finished the week with a baseball spectacle, watching the Houston Astros play Chicago White Socks. It was an excellent change from Australian sports, and the experience was unforgettable. With our first week in America wrapping up, the fun was just beginning. We flew to Huntsville, Alabama and arrived at the US Space & Rocket Center. This space camp was specifically designed to simulate the way astronauts

train, live and work. Activities here included a moon gravity simulator, swimming in a 7-metre deep pool, multi-axis training and performing a zero gravity mock EVA ( Extra Vehicular Activity), or spacewalk. The USSRC even had rides! The Space Shot flung you up 30 metres into the air, and you experienced free fall for about two seconds. This simulated the in-orbit experience that a regular astronaut might undergo in space. The G-Force was like a large centrifuge, and as you were strapped tightly in, it spun around at a crazy speed. This pushed about three G’s on you, making it very difficult to lift any part of your body. However, the real fun began with simulations of Shuttle Missions to the ISS. This included a replica of the space shuttle and ISS. We were assigned all sorts of roles, from flight director to Capcom, and pilot to mission specialist. We were all involved in a full role play of the space shuttle’s mission. It inspired us to evaluate our life goals, and whether we were interested in working in NASA’s mission control or up in space. It made the dream of becoming an astronaut come to life. Near the end of our trip, we had a chance to speak to Dr Don Thomas. He flew four missions, including several space shuttle trips. This is despite the fact he was rejected from NASA three times. He emphasised that persistence is the key for any path of life. Never give up! Unfortunately, the trip had to end at some time or another, and after two weeks of space fun and learning, it was time to go home… and face the jet lag. We want to thank our teachers and parents for taking us on this great experience, and strongly recommend the NASA trip to anybody wishing to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. As all the astronauts we met said: “It is our generation that will go to Mars.” We are going to make sure we are ready! Lucas Parker and Gurman Soni Year 8

MIDDLE AND SENIOR SCHOOL

The students at Johnson Space Center.

<< Alex Thursby, Brendan Humphreys and Nick Overall running a simulated mission at USSRC.

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

>> Alex Lovell, Tom Loh, Bryn Edwards and Tim Allsop at the Cell Lab.

MIDDLE AND SENIOR SCHOOL

Shaping a Career

n Friday 20 May 2016, six students from Years 10 and 11 went on an excursion to the University of NSW to learn about the wide range of mathematical careers available to women, and the scholarships awarded to talented students attending this university. A particular highlight for the students was a lecture from Julia Collins, a mathematician with a PhD in topology. She spoke of the connection between mathematics and the art of knitting, explained how this connection helped shape her career and displayed examples of her work. Dr Randell Heyman finished the day with a lecture detailing how mathematicians break down jpeg pictures into sine and cosine curves to easily store and transfer each pictureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s information. The Barker students thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful opportunity to learn more about the wonder of mathematics, and the possibilities that lie ahead of them if they pursue a mathematics-based career.

Ros Hamblyn Assistant Coordinator of Mathematics

International Mock

From Top Daniella Salisbury, Annette Choi, Saskia Ridley-Smith (Yr 10) and Chaylee Reeve, Vanessa Chen and Vivi Liang (Yr 11) at UNSW; An example of mathematical knitting.

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he Barker College Mock Trial team has been invited to represent Australia at the Empire Mock Trial international competition in New York in November 2016. The team will arrive in New York on the day of the US Federal Election. They will be involved in trying a fictitious terrorist case, based on an attempt on the life of the US Presidential candidate Ronald Crump. Participation in international Mock Trial is the practical manifestation of the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inspiring Global Hope strategic plan. The students are engaged in a globally focused, inquiry- based outstanding educational experience, while forming meaningful relationships with the global mock trial community. They are striving to nurture a culture of collaboration where innovation, expertise and hard work are their own intrinsic reward. Rebecca Mountain Mock Trial Coordinator

Above International Mock Trial team representing Barker College and Australia:Oscar Samios, Zac Gomes, Will Solomon, Lachlan Ballard, Callan Butler, Jodi Rabinowitz, Bobby Pym, Harriet McLean, Catherine Ku and Felicity Macourt (Left to right, back to front).

Spelling Bee The annual Spelling Bee Competition in Rhodes Theatre was a happy hive. Congratulations to all the 2016 contestants! The sensational spellers of the Year 7 competition were: 1. Matthew Brennan 2. Joseph Calusic 3. Matthew Bryant 4. Senura Jayatileke 5. Sam Wise

The vanquishing victors of the Year 10 competition were: 1. Damian Young 2. James Fox 3. Emma Hann 4. Josh Stals 5. Madeline King

The conquering champions of the Year 8 competition were: 1. George Birt 2. Kai Wong 3. Will Stamp 4. Gurman Soni 5. Nathan Woodley

A swarm thank you to our wise Word Masters, Dr Gregory Cunningham and Mr Alastair McCallum, our magnificent MC Mr James Todd-Hill, our professional photographer Mr Andrew Hood, and the awesome assistance of the Learning Support team. Thanks to all the teachers and spectators who came to cheer and clap. Be ready for the buzz of the 2017 Spelling Bee. Bee there! Bee involved! Bee inspired! Bee amazed! Bee at the Bee!

The wonderful winners of the Year 9 competition were: 1. Daniel Abbott 2. Daniel Jongma 3. Liam Soo 4. Andrew Shan 5. Jack Poulton

The

Martine Sloper Learning Support/English Teacher/CCC Dance

Effect

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he Triangle Effect was established by Year 12 student Devlin Gunzenhauser, with the aim of building stronger connections between students from the Senior, Junior and Darkinjung campuses. Over the past few terms, students from each of the campuses have been participating in a peer mentoring program which focuses on three areas; leadership, mentorship and fellowship. The service partnership primarily involves a fortnightly reading program where Senior students read with Year 4 and Darkinjung students. There is also a weekly game or activity prepared by the students in order to cultivate community and shared experiences. Although still in its early stages, the program which has been coordinated by the Service Captains Nicholas Hodge & Lauren Wilhelm has gained much support and praise from those involved. Simon Walker Director of Student Leadership & Service Partnerships

MIDDLE AND SENIOR SCHOOL

Below Year 10 winning group.

HISTORY

Year 7 students get ready for battle.

Big History Medieval At the start of Term 3, students in Year 7 were thrust back in time to hear tales of torture, disease and destruction. These are normal topics of discussion on Medieval Day! Expert presenters talked about the development of history from ancient Egypt to the end of the Middle Ages. Students were eager volunteers to take part in demonstrations, taking every chance to wear mail, don helmets and wield swords. Of particular note was the high quality of the questions being asked, and the obvious interest in the ancient and medieval past, something that will be harnessed by teachers as the students continue their studies of the medieval world.

David Christian At the end of Term 2, Year 9 students were lucky enough to be visited by Big History founder, Professor David Christian. Barker is one of a number of schools in Australia to study the Big History course, and the students were handed a rare opportunity to question Professor Christian. He told them about his life as a historian, the origins and development of the course, and his partnership with Bill Gates in promoting Big History in schools across the globe. The course traces the history of the universe from the dawn of time to the present. It achieves this through a series of eight thresholds, points in time when conditions have been ripe for significant change. Professor Christian also spoke of his belief in the need for a multi-disciplinary approach to learning, where knowledge is co-created by scholars, scientists, teachers and students. Based on the calibre of discussion between Professor Christian and the students in Year 9, the future

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(Threshold 9) is in excellent hands.

Greg Longney Head of History

Left Professor David Christian with history students and staff.

Launched!

ifty-seven Middle School students have begun to

and were pitted against each other in a competitive semifinal. Team 4613 was proud to win the final, managing to score three high goals despite breaking an intake arm.

The Redbacks and a number of significant international teams have been sponsored by the China Urban Youth Robotics Association (CUYRA) to travel to Shanghai and assist the growth of FRC in China. We look forward to sharing our journey with you. Lael Grant Robotics Co-ordinator/Computing Science Teacher

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experience the wonder and excitement of robotics in our inaugural Sphero Cup. Students needed to program a Sphero Spark to autonomously complete an obstacle course in limited time, while earning the maximum number of points. They competed in teams of three, first analysing the rules of the game to determine the most effective strategy to win the game. Students then developed software to allow the Spheros to complete the course without human intervention. Team Green Potatoes was crowned the winner with a total of 249 points, managing to complete the course three times in one minute. This term our Middle School students will begin building their FIRST Tech Challenge robots and will compete later this year in events at Barker College and Macquarie University. Our FRC (FIRST Robotic Competition) team have continued their impressive season with a great performance at Duel Down Under (DDU). The aim of DDU is to allow teams to compete in an off-season event, especially rookie teams that are learning the sport of robotics. It was excellent to see our Redbacks assist many teams throughout the competition, including Ravenswood as they built and competed with their first robot, and Abbotsleigh as they continue their successful rookie year. The Barker Redbacks were able to field two robots, 4613 and 5800, from one of our Brazilian partners. Team 4613 qualified in first position and 5800 qualified in sixth position

Below Middle School Robotics students experience the engagement of robotics through the Sphero Cup. Bottom Barker Redbacks win Duel Down Under 2016 as alliance Captain.

STEAM/ROBOTICS

Middle School

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Clockwise from top Left Melissa Pye, How to deliver a successful Pitch; Melissa Pye, Importance of posture and body language; Grok Learning, an online programming environment.

Communication, Collaboration &

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P 18

reparation, delivery, voice, body language, mindset, passion, confidence and authenticity are not concepts or words that are instantly associated with Computer Science. For our Year 11 Software Design and Development (SDD) students, however, they gained significant importance. During Term 2 the students attended The Sunrise Alpha startup conference, held by Blackbird Ventures and sponsored by Google. Here, the students were exposed to presentations by startup entrepreneurs to develop their understanding of the need for communication, collaboration and creative problem-solving skills. Following this excursion, the students were fortunate to have Melissa Pye from kickasspitch.com come to deliver a workshop on ’How to deliver a successful pitch’ about a project or idea. The skills the students leant from the conference and workshop proved invaluable in a later presentation task where, in groups, they presented a pitch to a panel for a programming solution that they had identified and planned.

During Term 2, Year 10 Information Software and Technology (IST) students completed a unit on Digital Media where they learnt skills and concepts in Augmented Reality, Graphic Design, Animation and Movie Production with Special Effects. This unit of work ended with the students undertaking an assessment where they had to quickly work to develop a two-minute movie on the theme of ‘dystopia’. This task was unique, as the students could only record and submit 60 seconds of their own footage, and had to make the rest of their movie from a video pool of the clips submitted by the other members of the year group. Some of their final dystopia special effects movies were showcased in the Library during early Term 3. Year 9 and 10 IST students are learning to code in Python during Term 3 and will be competing in the National Computer Science School competitions. These coding competitions will allow the students to develop their skills in creative problem solving and program development. Timothy Milkins Head of Computer Science

MUSIC

The World of

Above Jared Cheung in his performance of the Dvorak Cello Concerto.

Using “Inspiring Global Hope” as its launch pad, The World of Music concert on June 22 this year was a joyous and impressive display of Barker’s senior ensembles.

every note. The bands lifted the roof, the choirs lifted our hearts and, thoughtfully putting Australia on the map of the night’s musical journey was the world premiere performance of Fantasy on Moreton Bay, by Benjamin Saffir. Based on the Aussie-Irish folktune of transportation, hardship and resilience, it was an emotionally and technically challenging new work given a mature and nuanced performance by the chamber orchestra. By the concert’s end, the audience could only marvel at the diversity and quality of the musicianship of these young artists. The sense of joy and unity in both audience and performers reflected the possibility that global hope may be inspired by sharing humanity’s vast range of music-making. An audience member

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

hoosing pieces from around the world, the young musicians performed at a very high level with commitment and enthusiasm. Moments of individual brilliance – especially from Jared Cheung in his virtuosic performance of the Dvorak Cello Concerto – were set among fine moments of musical expressiveness from teenagers showing an unusually mature degree of sensitivity and some greatly impressive large ensemble work. The creative energy that so powerfully united all the performers on stage reflected the universal power of music to express our humanity and connect us all. From the first note of the percussion ensemble’s explosive performance of Power Play, through to the thrilling performances given by the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, the audience was clearly transported, following and feeling

ALUMNI PROFILE

Profile

Director of Alumni Relations, Mandy Loomes interviewed Adrienne Stone, Class of 1986. Adrienne received the 2016 Laureate Fellowship, the most prestigious academic award in the tertiary sector. This is a well-earned recognition of the high regard in which she is held in both Australia and internationally.

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

What was your journey after leaving Barker? I graduated from university with degrees in Arts (Philosophy) and Law. I was determined to be a barrister so worked for a judge and a law firm. But I took an opportunity to do postgraduate study at Columbia University (NYC), with a teaching fellowship, which was the best decision I ever made. I lived and studied there for three years and had the time of my life. I pursued the research that interested me while enjoying the wonders of New York. I decided academic life was for me and haven’t looked back. I returned home in 1998, worked at the Australian National University, met my husband Graeme Hill, and in 2007 moved to Melbourne where we are happily settled with our two sons.

Do you have a special memory from your time at Barker? Lots of them! I had the most fun doing things I wasn’t very good at, like cricket and hockey, choir and musical productions. I had a very, very minor role in Half a Sixpence but I thought it was the best thing I’d ever done. I really appreciated the fun and inclusive atmosphere at Barker and met truly, lovely people who have remained good friends. What motivated you? I’m a constitutional lawyer interested in freedom of speech. I became interested in constitutional law after

working as an associate for a High Court judge. At that time, the High Court was doing very interesting things with the Constitution, including developing free speech rights. It was a rare opportunity to observe, watch the arguments, assist with research for the judgments and see the judgments as they were written. Eighteen months later, I was in the United States doing post-graduate work. Studying freedom of speech seemed the natural thing to do. The US Constitution has the oldest and most highly developed constitutional law of freedom of speech in the world.

What does receiving the grant mean to you? The Laureate Fellowship is the opportunity of a lifetime, giving me five years to focus on these questions assisted by a team of researchers. I’m also delighted to have a Kathleen Fitzpatrick Fellowship, which provides me with resources to mentor women in research. I will be bringing promising young female researchers to Melbourne Law School for short intensive periods of study. I hope the mentoring will help them develop the skills, confidence and networks they need to shine.

What is the focus of your research? Constitutions and constitutional law. These are the most fundamental laws in society. Constitutions set up important institutions (like parliaments and the courts) and protect fundamental values, usually through constitutional rights.

What advice do you have for today’s Barker students? First of all, be confident. When you leave Barker you will have had an excellent education and you will be able to do wonderful things.

How do you see this impacting society? Australians haven’t thought much about their Constitution but that is changing. Both the movement to an Australian Republic and Indigenous recognition suggest Australians want their Constitution to reflect their values and play a unifying role. We need to think carefully how to do that, how to respect differences among us; in culture, religion, political opinion and in lifestyles. We need to strike a delicate balance using the Constitution to unify us, while allowing for the diversity a free multicultural society like ours needs. A tricky task! We have a lot to learn from the rest of the world about what to do and to avoid. This project will bring those insights to the Australian constitutional debate.

Second, make a plan. Great opportunities don’t fall into your lap. You have to work hard towards your goals. Be prepared to change directions. Some of the most impressive people I know have been brave and creative enough to change careers mid-stream. Third, enjoy your work life. This is something I learned at Barker – you don’t need to be miserable while pursuing your goals. Have some fun at work, get to know your colleagues, take the time to go just a little bit further to solve a problem for a client, customer, patient or a student, and enjoy life outside of work.

ALUMNI PROFILE THE BARKER | SPRING 2016â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

Adrienne receiving the 2016 Laureate Fellowship.

OED

Grange

he Grange has been delivering outdoor and environmental education programs in partnership with the Geography and Science curriculum in the Blue Mountains since the early 1990s. Mrs Liz Charlton and Mr Scott Manwaring joined The Grange a decade later and this year they became the new joint directors. Liz and Scott bring extensive outdoor qualifications and experience to their roles, and a passion for environmental appreciation and sustainability. Personally and professionally they have had many outdoor adventures in Australia and globally, more recently with their families. In their new roles, Liz looks forward to further developing The Grange facilities and resources, and enhancing relationships in the local community. Scott oversees the highly successful Middle School program, and looks forward to providing more opportunities for personal and spiritual growth at The Grange. Some new casual staff members joined a highly skilled Grange staff team to lead the very successful expeditions on Year 8 and Year 9 camps this year.

Above Year 9 students in the Grose Valley below Hanging Rock.

Scott Manwaring and Liz Charlton Joint Directors of The Grange

Below Left Coonabarabran Expo. Below Right Dressage team at NSW Championships.

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

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Equestrian

he Coonabarabran North West Equestrian Expo on the 3rd to the 7th of June, and the NSW State Interschools Championships on the 22nd to the 26th of June, resulted in some fantastic wins and placings for our Barker College Equestrian team. Despite torrential rain at the Coonabarabran event, our students showed great resilience and all placed against 550 other students. Ryan Haste, our Equestrian Captain, placed fourth in the Combined Training with his siblings, Kelsea and Jamie, cheering from the sidelines as they were unfortunately unable to compete due to injury. Jacinta Miller and Anna Christowski placed seventh and eighth respectively in the C grade event. Catherine Crampton placed a well-deserved 10th in her Dressage test against a strong field.

The NSW State Championships were held at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre, where Barker students from Years 7 to 12 competed. In the one-day event, Ani Dilanchian, Jacinta Miller, Sarah McVicker and Portia Timmis all did exceptionally well with great results and placings. Harrison Mohr placed fifth and seventh in his two showjumping rounds against a strong field. Jacinta Miller also rode well in the showjumping but was unlucky in the placings. Ella Barney placed a fabulous third in both of her dressage tests. Ani Dilanchian and Sarah McVicker also performed well in their dressage tests against a very large field. All riders, friends and family are congratulated for their sensational efforts in training, and competition results. The Barker Equestrian Team enthusiastically looks forward to what the second half of 2016 will bring. Ian Wood Snowsports Coordinator

OED

This image Joshua Lorschy (Yr11) captures an evening around the campfire.

Larapinta 60 kilometres of tough rocky trails, completing some steep climbs, and enjoying the solitude of camping in ancient riverbanks. Our tour concluded with the classic road trip across the Lasseter Highway to Yulara. Hearing the stories of the Anangu people, and visiting Uluru and Kata Tjuta proved a great way to promote discussion. The group would like to express their thanks to Mrs Boutagy, Miss Kennedy, Mr Manwaring, Mr Rider and Mr Plim for supporting such a memorable expedition. Graeme Dawes Senior Duke of Edinburgh coordinator

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

he Larapinta Trail has become a global destination for committed long-distance hikers. Stretching 223 kilometres west of Alice Springs, it traverses the West MacDonnell Ranges, providing a wonderful location for our most recent Gold level journeys. A group of 31 Year 11 students recently traversed some highlight sections of the trail. Some commenced with a dawn ascent of Rwetyepme (Mount Sonder), while others walked a more remote section commencing at Hugh Gorge. The various viewpoints, including a spectacular high camp at Brinkley Bluff, revealed beautiful desert country treasured by the Arrernte people. Together we spent a week traversing

DRAMA Above Holly Simpson (Blind Meg) facing off with a fierce dragon that required six crew to operate. Above Right William Wheatley (King Stanley) concocts an evil plan while the innocent Damon Brooks (Prince Pinky) watches on.

Year 10 Play: A Play about a Dragon THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

Play about a Dragon directed by Simon Thompson follows a troupe of travelling actors who dream of performing their rather chaotic play ‘About a Dragon’. In the attempt of making their dream a reality, the troupe misguidedly volunteers to slay a real, blood-thirsty dragon. Once they discover their mistake it’s far too late to back down, thus resulting in a story overflowing with humour and drama. The comedic genre and musical influences of the play were unlike anything I’ve ever been a part of, testing our ability to lose our self-importance and at times overdramatise. This pushed us out of our comfort zones and taught us a lot about ourselves, making the experience even more valuable. Personally, I found the production to be a fantastic opportunity to develop confidence and meet new people, particularly the new students, recently a part of our Barker community. With roughly 50 students involved it was a production of many characters, on and off-stage. A definite highlight for me was working with the incredible costumes, sets and props, which really brought the show together.

I particularly liked the fun and excitement of rehearsals and enjoyed developing my character over the entire process. The ‘sold out and overflowing’ performance nights were always bursting with atmosphere, creating a buzz amid frequent laughter and applause. An enormous thanks must be given to the Drama staff for their overwhelming support and active cooperation throughout the rehearsal process and performances. Dugal Parker’s brilliant work backstage and Mr Thompson’s determination should especially be recognised. And who could forget the unending support from the Barker College community, in particular everyone who came along to watch the show. The work done on stage could not have existed without such gratifying support, and this was a reflection of Barker’s resounding passion for theatre. I am sure the entire cast and crew would agree that the production was a fantastic experience that brings about only fond memories. Hamish Noble Year 10 Cast Member

DRAMA

Year 11 Play: Nicholas Nickleby

Top Our troupe of players begins the action. Above Ralph Nickleby (Zac Saville) comes face to face with his dark deeds in the form of ex-convict Brooker (Dan Merrick).

Lesley Moxon Music Teacher

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

here were so many reasons to be excited by this Year 11 production of Charles Dickens’ Nicholas Nickleby. It was a first sampling of Dickens for many students, who had little previous experience with this 19th century master storyteller and social commentator. Cast members quickly developed their own brilliant versions of some of his iconic mid-Victorian caricatures: alternately funny, loveable, greedy, half-mad, amusing, intelligent, extravagant, kind, flamboyant, deluded, dangerous, reckless and ever sentimental. The play provided a sharp window into a very different world of harsh fate and ill-gotten riches, and of an educational landscape far, far away from The Kefford Building. Yet still there were so many opportunities for them to find resonances and comparisons with their own lives and the current events in 2016. From a cast of 38 and crew of 10, it would be impossible to find a more devoted and focused group of students, who brought an ocean of talent to every rehearsal. Each displayed a fresh and mature willingness to triumph in one rehearsal, while knowing that the key to continued richness was to uncover even better characterisation at the next. These students will go forward to find success in the future, some on the stage and others in myriad other different ways. I am certain they will continue to associate Dicken’s hearty ‘slice’ of memorable characters with other moments throughout their lives. A theatrical production such as this can truly offer no better gift to them.

VISUAL ARTS

Success at the Mosman Youth Art Prize 2016 For 28 years, Mosman Council has shown its commitment to encouraging the creative talents of young aspiring artists by showcasing their work at the Mosman Art Gallery.

his year, Barker College entered 11 student artworks into the Mosman Youth Art Prize for 2016. We selected a medley of forms including printmaking, animation, ceramics sculpture, painting and video. Student artworks from Year 7-12 were entered into the three categories – junior, senior and tertiary. This year, there were well over 300 entries and the standard of work was exceptionally high. It is remarkable that each of the 11 student artworks were finalists for the 2016 Mosman Youth Art Prize. This is a wonderful recognition of each student’s passion for art. They should know that their work was held in high regard by a panel of experienced judges.

Congratulations to all of our students. I hope that they feel enormously proud of their achievements in seeing their work in a gallery for the public to appreciate: • Fergus Berney Gibson Keep at it • Emma Dunnet When the Going gets Tough the Tough get Going • Alex de Montemas Karisma • Finn Couzner Buckle Up • Aryan Sethi Machli Express • Mark Green Priceless • Joshua Stein Junk Island • Luke Sadler The Last Farewell • Oliver Wackett Normurra Ave • Vanessa Musumeci (HSC 2015) Dyslexia • Jami Blood (HSC 2015) Notebook #12 Congratulations to three students who received prizes at the exhibition opening on 21 July: • Tertiary Category Prize Winners (age 18-21) 1st Prize Jami Blood, Notebook #12 • Encouragement Award (Friends of Mosman Art Gallery award) Vanessa Musumeci, Dyslexia • Encouragement Award (Friends of Mosman Art Gallery and Hype DC awards) Finn Couzner, Buckle Up The prizewinners’ artworks can be viewed at: mosmanartgallery.org.au/mosman-youth-art-prizewinners-2016 Matthew Bentham Head of Visual Arts

1st Prize Jami Blood, Notebook #12

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

Encouragement Award Finn Couzner Buckle Up

Encouragement Award Vanessa Musumeci, Dyslexia

VISUAL ARTS

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 HOPE

JUDGES: Rev Ware, Mrs Elston and Mr Whitington

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

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

HOPE

HOP

SUBMISSIONS: Submit artworks to the Visual Arts staffroom before the end of Term 4, 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

HOP

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

HOPE

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

HOPE HOPE

HOPE

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

HOPE

The artwork made must represent the idea of HOPE

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

Above Michael Fletcher testing the mechanism for a dynamic chair.

Engagement is Taking on a major project in the HSC year is both challenging and immensely rewarding. The project is like a metaphor for life.

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

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ngagement is purposeful: not always fun, but the stress and commitment is an inherent part of students learning how to manage. They need to manage their time and coordinate resources such as finance, skills, people, materials and technology. Students have to find their way into a problem and work through testing processes to achieve a desired outcome. Progress requires ongoing attention as it is often chequered with mistakes that need correcting or reworking. Projectbased learning is an iterative process of improvement. Momentum can drive a project, though it can be disrupted and then needs to be regenerated. Students learn how to deal with these setbacks. Attempting to try new approaches often results in failure, but students need to be creative and develop the capacity to fail â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which we call failing forward.

Sometimes the research or process that students engage with reveals new opportunities, and students need to be prepared to identify such luck. Students who complete a major project gain tremendous self-efficacy. They have greater belief in their ability to succeed in different situations and a greater range of skills and knowledge to succeed. Students are empowered because they understand how to apply a methodology to tackle future projects, how to apply technology and processes, and how to view and interpret problems and solutions from different perspectives. Darren Woodrow HOD Design and Technology

GEOGRAPHY

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ELECTRICAL LEGEND SINGLE GPO DOUBLE GPO SINGLE DATA DOUBLE DATA

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LOCATED ON DUCTED SKIRTING, UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE: * UB - UNDERBENCH * AB - ABOVE BENCH * 'DIMENSION' - HEIGHT AFFL

- CLIENT TO CONFIRM POWER / DATA REQUIREMENTS AND LOCATIONS. - CLIENT TO CONFIRM IT / AV REQUIREMENTS.

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- ALLOW TO RE-USE EXISTING WALL MOUNTED SPEAKERS. RELOCATE AT THE FRONT OF EACH CLASSROOM TO SUIT PACKED-OUT WALLS AS REQUIRED. CLIENT TO CONFIRM POWER / CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS. ALLOW TO REUSE EXISTING SUB-WOOFER - LOCATE WITHIN NEW AV CONSOLE. IT / AV OUTLETS TO SUIT CH1

- ALLOW TO RE-USE EXISTING WALL MOUNTED WIFI DEVICE. RELOCATE TO SUIT PACKED-OUT WALLS AS REQUIRED

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- ALLOW TO INSTALL NEW SHORT-THROW PROJECTORS (TO BE SUPPLIED BY THE SCHOOL)

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Architect

*1050

Level 3, 4 Glen Street, Milsons Point. NSW 2061 Australia

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61 2 9922 2344 F: 61 2 9922 1308 architects@nbrsap.com.au W: www.nbrsap.com.au

CAD File C:\Users\vwu\Documents\_Revit Local Files

CUPBOARD STORAGE

2014\15455-wd-master-Classroom-R14-CENTRAL_vwu.rvt

Any form of replication of this drawing in full or in part without the written permission of NBRS+PARTNERS Pty Ltd consistitutes an infringement of the copyright ABN 16 002 247 565 © 2014 Nominated Architects: Graham Thorburn reg No. 5706; Geoffery Deane reg No. 3766; Andrew Duffin reg No. 5602; Garry Hoddinett reg No. 5286

Project & Client

Barker College C Block CH1

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91 Pacific Hwy, Hornsby NSW 2077 for

Barker College Drawing Title

Furniture Plan - Classroom 13

Date

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1 : 50 @ A3

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Clockwise from top left C11 when stripped; Year 10 Geography class enjoys the new C11; Mr Heath (Head of Barker College) and Mr Lloyd (Head of Geography) officially open the refurbished Geography Rooms; Plans are afoot, one of the many detailed plans behind the room upgrade.

Lightens

replaced bricks, and new windows and air conditioning were installed to create an environment more conducive to learning. Instructional technology was upgraded. Students and teachers have access to smart boards and can share the digital projectors as students display their learning on the front screen without even leaving their seats. New furniture completed the refurb. This includes desks that can be set in a variety of shapes to fit the learning activity, nested ottomans, walls of whiteboards, mobile boards and cubes, transforming flexibility in classroom management. The Geography Department loves these improvements in feel and function. We are most grateful to Mr Heath for instigating the project, to Mr Barker for many hours of poring over plans and attending site meetings, to the IT team led by Mr Price, and to the grounds and maintenance team, ably led by Mr Hodgson, who attacked so many tasks with vigour. The result is a suite of brighter, more functional rooms that are a joy to learn and teach in. Matthew Lloyd Head of Geography

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

ight and flexibility were the two key briefs given to team leader Andrew Duffin of NBRS+PARTNERS as the design phase began for revamping Rooms C11 – C14. For years, the C Block classrooms (1967 – western, 1971 eastern) had taken on an increasingly tired appearance. While devotees of vermiculite ceilings might have been disappointed about the changes, it was time. The basic classroom setting remains the same – a group of students being overseen by a teacher – but much has changed since these rooms were built. The ‘sage on the stage’ has become ‘the guide on the side’ (Taylor, R., 1972). Our classrooms need to reflect this. The Term 1 holidays saw the transformation begin. Walls and windows were removed, carpet came out (revealing the artistic work of a disgruntled carpet layer, expressing his chagrin using the medium of carpet glue), and wiring and lights were stripped as the rooms were laid bare. Out with the old, in with the new. Ceilings were hung (ruining Mr Lawry’s tale of vermiculite actually being made up of 30 years of Barker student spitballs!), glass

SPORT

Barker

arker was well represented at the NSW All Schools Diving with three students, Angus Cummings, Vladi Rudenko and Harry Gresham performing in outstanding fashion. Vladi and Harry won their respective age groups, and Angus finished in a highly creditable fifth position. Steve Thomlinson Director of Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Sport

Above Vladi Rudenko and Harry Gresham with their gold medals.

Barker Fencing Championships

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

or the first time, Barker Foil Fencing team qualified for the National Schools Teams Championships in Brisbane. We congratulate our fencers on their application and determination to be competitive at this elite level. Early in the year, two teams competed in the AJ Rae & RA White qualifying competition at Marrickville. The teams comprised Tom Bailey, Philip Rowe, Lachlan Cromie and Leon Qu (Yr 12) in the 1sts and Jared Cheung, David Young (Yr 11), Kian Connolly (Yr 10) and Nate Cross (Yr 9) in the 2nds. Each team fenced well, but as we moved forward the inevitable battle between the two teams approached. What can be harder for a coach than seeing your own teams pitted against each other? The score seemed to seesaw as much as the coaches paced, but ever so gradually the 2nds took control of the match and went on to place equal third, thus gaining entry to the Nationals. Of the original qualifying team, David and Nate were present, but due to other commitments Jared and Kian were unable to attend so Lachlan and Leon stepped up. The competition was a little more like a State of Origin, with four NSW teams and three Queensland teams.

Above Warming Up.

The boys had to complete six team bouts, which took approximately an hour each, and there were some tired fencers at the end of the day. With such a marathon event it was impossible for any individual fencer to carry the team. Each stepped up when required, to maintain the motivation and momentum. While we were not successful in gaining a podium position, it was an exceptional experience and extremely rewarding. Our aim will be to maintain this level of expertise so that we can send another team next year. Lainie Kalnins Co-Curricular Coordinator Fencing

Above The Team: Coach Steve Augoloupis, Lachlan Cromie, David Young, Nate Cross, Leon Qu.

SPORT

Interschools

n July, Barker students represented us at the NSW Northern Interschools Snowsports competition in Thredbo. In Snowboard GS we had nine students compete, with five qualifying to represent Barker at the state level. Well done to Ursula Phillips (Year 10), who placed third in her event, while the Year 7 team of Will Jeffress, Ned Slack-Smith and Hamish Jollow also came third in their event. Ned also achieved an individual top 10 finish along with Ash Jollow (Year 6), who came ninth in his event. Of our nine students competing in the Snowboard X event, six qualified for State, with Ursula once again placing third. The Year 7 team of Will Jeffress, Ned Slack-Smith and Hamish Jollow came fifth, with Ned once again achieving an individual top 10 finish. The Year 5 team of Jack Jeffress and Ethan Dobson also came fifth in their event. In the Moguls, we had six students compete, with Huck Warneford (Year 9) placing eigth individually, securing a spot in the State competition.In Alpine, we had 28 students represent us, with 10 qualifying for State. The team of Ben Pike (Year 12), John Brunelli-Brondex (Year 11) and Georgia Barlow (Year 11) came third overall, with Ben Pike coming fifth individually. The Year 11 team of Angus Davidson, Ashley So, and Benjamin Gilmore secured fifth overall. The Year 10 team of Nick Pike, Cameron Whiteside, Alex Lahoud and Lachlan Hay came second, with Nick receiving the third place medal and Cameron coming sixth.

Above Lukas Wenman, Brett Minkus and Dylan Dobson competing in the Division 5 Alpine event.

In Skier X we had 26 competitors, of which seven qualified to represent us at State. Georgia Barlow secured fourth place while the team of Ben Pike, John BrunelliBrondex and Ashley So came fourth, with Ben’s individual performance placing him fifth. The team of Nick Pike, Alex Lahoud and Cameron Whiteside came in third place, with Nick once again securing a personal third place. Overall, in the Primary Co-Ed category, Barker came seventh overall. In the Secondary Co-Ed schools category, Barker came second in skiing, seventh in snowboarding, and overall placed second. Nonie Taylor Science Teacher

The comes alive in 2016

Above Swimming Captain Orla Flynn in action at ISA.

The final results were: Trinity 543 St Aloysius 342.5 Knox 539 Waverley 318 Barker 435.5 Cranbrook 314 Finally, congratulations to Max Jostsons, who has been selected to represent NSW at the School Sport Australia Swimming Championships being held in Darwin in September. Jason Cooper CCC Swimming/PDHPE Teacher

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

new format saw the ISA Swimming program come alive in 2016. Led by Captain Orla Flynn, the Girls’ Swimming Team provided the large contingent of supporters, with some exciting racing at Sydney Olympic Park. Orla Flynn, Brie Gleeson, Ellie Jongma, Estelle Rughoober and Candice Ryan were all outstanding in winning individual events on the night. Barker won both intermediate relays, while the senior relays also progressed through to the NSWCIS Championships. Overall, Barker placed third in the Intermediate Division and second in the Senior Division. Taking the great momentum established at ISA, and with the cheers from the school assembly ringing in their ears, the Boys’ Swimming team arrived at the 85th CAS Swimming Championships ready to compete. Captain Jack Nixon led his team into the arena, ready to make inroads into the big gap between Barker and the top two schools. Lucas Vass won three events on the night, while Alex Middleton set the Barker crowd alight when he won his 50m backstroke. Shaun Champion also starred for the team by winning two events as well as setting a new CAS record in the 100m butterfly. In the end, the point score showed that Trinity and Knox were far too strong, while Barker again maintained third place with a large gap from the bottom three schools.

SPORT

Barker success sport

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

t has been a massive year for the Barker girls, not only excelling in the Red for their school but also reaching great heights in the black and gold of ISA, and red, white and blue for NSWCIS. A total of 39 students have been selected for ISA representative teams, and 10 students for CIS representative teams. Twelve Barker staff have joined students in these representative honours, and we are only halfway through the year. The representative season kickstarted in the pool, with 11 swimmers selected in the ISA team to compete at the NSWCIS Swimming Carnival. Special mention to Orla Flynn, who finished fifth in 200m backstroke, Brie Gleeson who finished seventh in 50m breaststroke and the 15-16 relay, and 17 relay who finished seventh and sixth respectively in the final. It was a history-making ISA softball season as well, with six Barker students instrumental in securing the NSWCIS Challenge Shield outright for the first time in 23 years. This was a monumental occasion, with the ISA team coached to victory by our very own Laura Southwood (Softball 1st Coach). The students’ efforts led to Jade Beeston, Gabrielle Chan, Emma Lawrence and Isabella Serhan all being selected into the CIS team. We also congratulate Anne Horne (Softball CCC) on her selection as Assistant Coach for the NSW All Schools Team. Not to be outdone, the ISA Basketball team also secured the NSWCIS Championships, with four Barker students leading. It was an all-Red affair, with Sarah Clifton (Girls Basketball 1st Coach) and Nicole Bailey (Girls Basketball CCC) joining forces with Kimberley Hodge, Rebecca Black and Elizajane Loader to steer the NSWCIS team to victory in the NSW All Schools Challenge. The result was a rare and satisfying ultimate trifecta of victories (ISA, CIS, NSW All Schools Championships), all in the one season. Barker’s scoring machine, also known as Kimberley Hodge, also went on to represent NSW All Schools , although Elizajane Loader was unable to compete due to injury. Although only a pathway sport at ISA, Touch Football continues to be strong at Barker, with an impressive eight students selected out of 12 possible positions into the ISA Team. Unfortunately, ISA lost a tight game against IGSSA in the final moments, resulting in a second placing. However, our Barker students continued their strong representation at NSWCIS Level with Sophie Wehrmann, Abbey Hodge and Rachel Fear all being selected in the NSWCIS Open Girls Touch Football Team. These students are yet to compete, and we wish them luck in the tournament in late September.

The representative honours keep coming, with Tahlia Morrissey being selected in the ISA Hockey team and five Barker students helping the ISA Football team to a secondplace finish at the NSWCIS Championships. Again, under the coaching guidance of Barker staffer David O’Keeffe (Girls 1st Football Coach) and Alison Cox (Girls Football CCC), as well as [students] Genevieve Tucker and Sophie de Montemas, the NSWCIS Football team won the All Schools Challenge for the first time in the history of the competition – a truly remarkable achievement. ISA and CIS netball are still to be played, but with three Barker students and the leadership of Nat Potent (Netball 1st Coach) and Alex Butt (Netball CCC), there is no doubt they will also reach great heights this year.

Alison Cox Director of Girls’ Sport Below Barker was well represented in the 2016 ISA Touch Football team.

Above Ursula Phillips (Yr10), Leigh Myers (Yr11), Sarah Heward-Belle (Yr11) & Sophie Wehrmann (Yr11) our ISA Netball representatives.

SPORT

Below Genevieve Tucker (11) & Sophie de Montemas (Y11) proudly display their medals following the NSWCIS team winning the All Schools Football championships for the very first time.

Above Rebecca Black (Yr12), Elizajane Loader (Yr12) & Kim Hodge (Yr12) at the NSW All School Basketball Championships

Girls Representatives Rebecca Black

Basketball

ISA, CIS, NSW All Schools

Kimberley Hodge

Basketball

ISA, CIS, NSW All Schools

Elizajane Loader

Basketball

ISA, CIS

Chaylee Reeve

Basketball

ISA

Sophie de Montemas

Football

ISA, CIS

Sammy de Montemas

Football

ISA

Genevieve Tucker

Football

ISA, CIS

Lucy Lake

Football

ISA

Stef Aisbett

Football

ISA

Tahlia Morrissey

Hockey

ISA

Jade Beeston

Softball

ISA, CIS

Gabrielle Chan

Softball

ISA, CIS

Emma Lawrence

Softball

ISA, CIS

Kate Pierce

Softball

ISA

Isabella Serhan

Softball

ISA, CIS

Kelly Van Homrigh

Softball

ISA

Lexi Cummings

Swimming

ISA

Orla Flynn

Swimming

ISA

Sophie Fortin

Swimming

ISA

Brie Gleeson

Swimming

ISA

Ellie Jongma

Swimming

ISA

Lucy Lake

Swimming

ISA

Camryn Miller-Simmons

Swimming

ISA

Estelle Rughoober

Swimming

ISA

Candice Ryan

Swimming

ISA

Natasha Salisbury

Swimming

ISA

Eliza Vass

Swimming

ISA

Sophie Wehrmann

Touch Football

ISA, CIS

Abbey Hodge

Touch Football

ISA, CIS

Caitlin Dow

Touch Football

ISA

Rachel Fear

Touch Football

ISA, CIS

Jade Geros

Touch Football

ISA

Katy Pickles

Touch Football

ISA

Zoe Kavanagh

Touch Football

ISA

Daisy White-Smith

Touch Football

ISA U15

Isabella Newell

Touch Football

ISA U15

Leigh Myers

Netball

ISA

Sophie Wehrmann

Netball

ISA

Ursula Phillips

Netball

ISA

Above Kelly Van Homrigh (Yr12), Gabby Chan (Yr12), Bella Serhan (Yr11), Miss L Southwood (Coach), Kate Pierce (Yr12), Emma Lawrence (Yr12), Jade Beeston (Yr10) following ISA’s Victory and the NSWCIS Softball Championships.

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

Above Lilly Grills (Yr10) & Natasha Salisbury (Yr12) at the NSWCIS Cross Country Championships.

CLARKE ROAD SCHOOL

Bonds at Clarke Road School

Above Cameron Thomas (Yr11), Charlotte Thomas (Yr11) and friends enjoy time out from dancing.

The Clarke Road School and Barker College relationship continues to strengthen.

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

F 34

or an hour each week Year 11s provide very welcome extra hands in the classrooms, as well as encouragement and support of the Clarke Road special needs students, who keenly anticipate these visits. Year 11s have also voluntarily provided invaluable help at Clarke Road’s Swimming and Athletics Carnivals, after which one Clarke Road parent wrote: “The Clarke Road School children have significant disabilities but all the Barker students took this in their stride. They were kind, considerate and understanding they cheered our kids on in every race, ran beside those who needed help, sat with them between races and played games with them. Thank you Barker students you are a wonderful group of young people.” For many Year 11s this might be a one-off experience, for others, life-changing. For all, it is a path to a greater understanding of the enormous daily challenges faced by people with disabilities and their carers. Helen Graham Dean of Individual Programs

From top A strong performance was put in by all the students in this game; Concentration on the faces of Samuel Johnson (Yr11) and Valentine; All smiles at the end of a race for Alina with Olivia Toomey(Yr11) and Harriet McLean(Yr11).

BOARDING

Clockwise from top Rebecca Black shoulders past a defender for Barker Firsts; Elizajane Loader drives to the basket, representing Barker; George Furrer in action for Barker First XI.

moving on to great things

Elizajane Loader will also be spending four years on a full scholarship to play NCAA Division 1 Basketball, at Portland State University. George Furrer has been selected in the NSW Metro U/19 Cricket team and also the NSW all-schools Cricket team, where he will represent the state later this year. The boarding community (including all that have been repeatedly woken at early hours so that these students could meet their training commitments) are incredibly proud to know such wonderful young Australians. We wish them, and all of our graduating boarders, great blessing as they pursue their dreams beyond the Mint Gates. Jonathan Rheinberger Director of Boarding

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

everend Ware likes to use the phrase that boarders “punch above their weight”. He is referring to the fact that boarders are typically well represented in all aspects of school life, and often rank in disproportionate numbers among the highest achievers in various endeavours. The graduating group of 2016 boarders includes three outstanding sportspeople who are each going on to great things in their chosen sport. Rebecca Black, George Furrer and Elizajane Loader have trained and competed incredibly hard to achieve their successes and selection in numerous representative teams over the past few years. Ahead of them are some wonderful opportunities to pursue their sporting passions. Rebecca Black is heading to the University of San Francisco next year on a full scholarship to play NCAA Division 1 Basketball.

CADETS

The Dux of the Junior Leaders Course Warrant Officer Class 2 Lucy Lake, and the Dux of the Senior Leaders Course Regimental Sergeant Major James Meek.

The Barker College Cadet Unit completed its Junior and Senior rank courses at the end of Term 2.

In Conversation

aptain Gordon, the Unit Operations Officer and Senior Instructor of the Senior Leaders course, sat down and chatted with the duxes of both courses to find out about their experience of completing both courses.

Captain Gordon: Why did you decide to undertake the leadership courses?

Lucy Lake: I liked the challenge of the course and learning how to be a leader. It should help me in later life as well. James Meek: I saw myself develop as a junior leader more than I could ever have imagined. I also had fun on the course. Being a leader in the cadet unit is a type of leadership not found anywhere else in the school. Captain Gordon: What did you learn most about yourself on this course? Lucy Lake: I learned I was more resilient than I thought. I also realised I could adapt quickly to situations and think on my feet.

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

James Meek: If you have a good team behind you anything is possible. Everybody worked together to achieve our goals and this was such a valuable lesson to learn.

Captain Gordon: Why do you think having Cadets at school is important? James Meek: It is a unique experience offering skills that are valuable for life. As I said, it is the only place in the school where a student can exercise real leadership and run activities for cadets as well as being a role model to the younger cadets.

Lucy Lake: It gives you really good people skills. When you are camping you see each other at your most vulnerable and learn how to help each other out. It also gives you the chance to be outside in the physical environment, which is a great place to learn in addition to the traditional academic environment of the classroom. Captain Gordon: How do you think you have changed as a person as a result of completing this course? James Meek: I have become much more confident as a person. I would never have got up in front of people to speak without notes before, but now I can do this. I also have realised the effectiveness of different styles of leadership, and working with people to achieve results. I have become more conscious of keeping people clearly informed of what is going on, as well as understanding the importance of following orders. Lucy Lake: I am definitely more confident. I have learned appropriate ways to get peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s respect. I have got to know the other people on the course better, and have realised that I can achieve more than I thought possible through working with them as a team. Captain Gordon: Thank you both for your time today and the best of luck with your new roles in the Cadet Unit. Philip Gordon Senior School Tutor, Captain(AAC) Operations Officer BCCU, History Department

BCMA

Clockwise from top Barker Red 1920s Entry; (L-R) Abby Rodwell, Heidi Darwell, Julie Long, Jodie Eliott, Cheryl Robins “Barker Red Committee”; VIP and past presidents; BCMA and Spring Fair Committee members attending morning tea with the parents, students and staff of Darkinjung Barker.

Celebrating our 1920’s Style

We also had the honour of attending our first ever BCMA morning tea at Darkinjung Barker Campus, to meet with the school community at Yarramalong. It was a fabulous day getting to know some of the parents, students and teaching staff, and we look forward to many more opportunities to develop our relationship in the future. This is my last contribution to The Barker as President of the BCMA. I would like to acknowledge the wonderful people with whom I have served over the past four years, and all who have served over the past 90 years as committee members. The BCMA is steeped in a history that I am proud to say I have been an active part of, and I will take with me some wonderful memories that I will forever cherish. With our main objective being to foster friendships, I know that I leave my role feeling that I have been blessed with many. Jenelle Montgomerie President, BCMA

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

uring Term 2, the BCMA continued its 90th anniversary celebrations with an appropriately themed 1920’s parent function, Barker Red Roars the 20s. It was a magnificent evening and a great deal of enthusiasm went into the decoration, costuming and attire for the event, with everyone embracing the theme in their Gatsby and Garboinspired attire. The organising committee, led by Julie Long, put on a magnificent evening for the parents’ enjoyment. Thank you to all involved for making this special year so memorable. The BCMA also hosted the Boarder Parents’ and Guardians’ afternoon tea, which was held in the Sue Field Room, Rosewood Pavilion. With many of our families travelling a great distance to join us, we were thankful to host this event in such a welcoming and airy space, the perfect venue on this occasion.

ARCHIVES

not forget

will

Clockwise from top Charles Glennie was killed in action at Ypres, Belgium in 1917 at the age of 24; Nigel Lowe served in Egypt and on the Western Front. He was killed in action at Bullecourt in 1917. The Barker College Roll of Honour when it was unveiled in 1916; The War Memorial Pylons, seen here in the bottom left corner, have served as the School’s Roll of Honour since 1938. Mrs Mardie Leslie Collection.

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

O 38

ne hundred years ago, in 1916, the Great War shifted from Gallipoli to the Western Front. In the same year, Barker College commemorated the old boys who served in the battles of the Great War by unveiling its Roll of Honour. Headmaster William Carter was enormously proud of all the Barker old boys who served King and country. He believed it was fitting to acknowledge their service and sacrifice with a permanent Roll of Honour. Thus, on June 17 1916, as fighting on the Western Front had only just begun, the school community gathered in the dining hall for the unveiling ceremony. The College Barker (June 1916, p. 1) reports: “The whole ceremony was most impressive and uplifting. There were sad and solemn moments, as, for instance, when the Chief [Headmaster William Carter] slowly recited the names of those who have died for their country, but there was nothing funereal, nothing unworthy of those who played a man’s part to the end…” As the Great War persisted in France and Belgium, the school received letters from old boys, which provided details

of enlistment, lives lost, injuries and life in the trenches. The Roll of Honour maintained its prominent position in the dining hall and by the war’s end was inscribed with 211 names. Photographs of the 21 old boys who were never to return surrounded it. Seventeen of them died on the battlefields of the Western Front, including Bullecourt, Pozières, Péronne and Messines. Since this time, 20 additional names have been added to the Roll of Honour, with the number of old boys losing their life now totaling 23. Unfortunately, when the dining hall was destroyed by fire in 1935, the School’s Roll of Honour was also lost. The Old Boys Union gifted the War Memorial Pylons to the School in 1938 as a replacement. Constructed on the edge of the Middle School Quadrangle, the Pylons continue to serve as a permanent reminder of the cost of war. In the words of William Carter: “Barker does not forget you! Barker will always remember you!” Morwenna Pearce Manager of Archives

FOUNDATION

The Barker Foundation held its signature Sunset Cinema event on Saturday 18 June, with the screening of How to Train your Dragon to an excited Preparatory and Junior School audience.

A boy and a dragon at Barker College

These are the qualities we aim to instil in our children and inspire the types of friendships that last a lifetime: never letting a friend down while always displaying high principles, doing the right thing without seeking rewards. We aim to nurture and cultivate these personal qualities, so that today and in years to come when our children are no longer in uniform, they will still hold the same values, beliefs and high standards that these memories instil. The Barker Foundation would like to thank the parents, staff, students, friends and sponsors for making this event so special. We are proud, under the leadership and guidance of Mr Heath and Mr Lubrano, to be a part of such supporting and fulfilling community-inspired events like this. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Honor non Honoresâ&#x20AC;? John Dimitropoulos Parent (Year 5; Pre-K; e2020) Barker Foundation Director

THE BARKER | SPRING 2016

he lights went down at 5:30pm and the 10-metre high inflatable screen captivated the audience. How to Train your Dragon accommodated all viewing ages, but what became most apparent were the important themes and lessons peppered throughout the movie. How to Train your Dragon is about Hiccup, the young son of a viking chief, who must capture a dragon to mark his passage into manhood. However, as with life, nothing goes according to plan and our young hero must learn quickly how to navigate the unexpected. Hiccup and the dragon, named Toothless, are both frightened and apprehensive at the start, but the boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s serene kindness and sound moral instinct opens up the possibility of a friendship. A unique bond forms between them, and the audience then watches them protect, defend and guard each other, however high the stakes. This is a story that demonstrates that for all our differences, we are still connected by a need for love, acceptance and the right to be treated as an individual.

THE OLD BARKER

Spring 2016 — Issue 226

Tim Reed, Class of 2003, talks about being a professional triathlete. How did you get into Triathlons? I was good at sport at school but never great. I always excelled in fitness testing and beep tests so had an inkling there might be some endurance talent there. I enjoyed basketball and rugby too much to really train for anything else though. At university, during an Exercise Physiology class, I completed a Vo2 max test on a bike and the numbers were unusually high, so I started training seriously for triathlons after that to see where it could go. What inspired you to start Ironman competitions? I went to Forster to watch Ironman Australia and was blown away by the atmosphere and the distance these triathletes could cover at remarkable speeds. I watched Chris McCormack win in emphatic style that year and it sparked something in me.

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

Your career highlights to date? Twice Australian Champion (Long Course & Ironman 70.3); fifth place 2014 Ironman 70.3 World Championships; 2015 Ironman 70.3 Asia Pacific Champion; and 2016 Ironman Australia Champion.

Is physiological testing important for Triathletes? It’s very valuable for anyone keen on getting the most out of their training time. However, you can get very accurate estimations from basic field tests. I’ve always been fascinated with the science behind racing fast. My team does a lot of testing, From metabolic to sweat rate to wind-tunnel aerodynamic testing on the bike. Information is power. How many races do you compete in each year? I compete in 10-12 races per year. Thankfully, because it’s my job, I only have to work four to six hours a day, so it isn’t too

demanding. I keep competing because I’ve got great sponsors, a supportive wife and I still love it. All my major sponsors are based in the USA and Asia, so I have had to travel away from my family, which has been the most difficult part. My wife has finished her medical qualifications so she and our young sons, Oscar and Arthur, will travel with me for the next few years, which will make it far more enjoyable. What do you enjoy about triathlons? The people. I’ve made so many great friends in Australia and around the world through the sport. Relationships that will last long after I’ve retired from racing. How do you stay focused on your future goals and dreams? By allowing periods of normality when I’m not particularly focused. Strangely enough, my best races have come after a good holiday away from the sport. I come back fresh and focused for six to eight weeks training leading into a race. I love being my own boss, having the flexibility to spend much more time with my family. Increased family time is a pretty big incentive to keep chasing improvement in my racing. Do you find it easy to maintain your high level of health and fitness? I’m not under any illusion that elite sport is particularly healthy. To be at the top of your game, particularly in endurance sports, you’re often on the brink of overtraining, sickness or injury. Thankfully, over the years I’ve become very self-aware of when I’m starting to push the boundaries too far.

Inside this

42 OBA President 43 Community Events 46 OBA Groups

OBA Groups

50 Personal Notes 51 Obituaries

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 Matthew Ross-Smith (10) 0408 284 702 Honorary Assistant Secretary David Brookes (79) 0400 906 052 General Committee Angus Abadee (07) Vanessa Bennett (91) Paul Goncharoff (88) Jenny Kalaf (Melville 78) Catherine Lancaster (82) David Slinn (80) David Trayner (84) Henry Wells (10)

School Contacts Director of Alumni Relations Mandy Loomes (02) 9847 8229 (Sch) mandy_loomes@barker.nsw.edu.au Alumni Reunion Coordinator Karina Drummond (02) 9847 8283 (Sch) karina_drummond@barker.nsw.edu.au 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 Northern Rivers Jim Poulos (61) (02) 6686 7711 (h) pamio@bigpond.net.au

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

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.

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) +6 39175302744 (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) (1) (910) 612 5671 arenton1@mac.com USA, West Coast Digby Cook (56) (1) 623 523 4321 digbyhcook@gmail.com

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

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

Upper Hunter Charles Cooke (65) (02) 6545 8141 (w) charles_cooke@esat.net.au

FROM THE OBA PRESIDENT

President’s Tony Gamson (78), OBA President

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

ach year, members of the OBA committee interview several students to see if they are suitable candidates for an OBA Scholarship for Years 10 to 12. These scholarships are offered to alumni families and to the general community, and are awarded based on the students’ character and suitability for Barker, as well as financial need. The candidates go through a selection process, including an examination, before meeting with the OBA. The financial support provided by the OBA has made a difference for many families who would otherwise struggle to meet the commitment of school fees. Next year there will be 10 students in the Senior School receiving some level of financial support from the OBA. For most, this will involve providing assistance towards tuition fees, and some will also receive help towards the cost of uniforms and textbooks through specific bursaries. We regard these scholarships as a two-way contract between the student and the School. The OBA is looking for students who will take advantage of the School’s resources and opportunities. At the same time, we expect them to become contributors to the school community and to serve as leaders of their year group cohort. If you would like to support the OBA in providing these scholarships, tax-free donations can be made to our Scholarship Fund through the Donation portal on the Barker website. Alternatively, please contact Mandy Loomes in the Alumni Relations Office on 9847 8229. In July, the OBA held its 108th Annual General Meeting to report to members on the activity of the past 12 months and elect executive and committee positions for the year ahead. I am pleased to report that your Association is in a sound

financial position and enjoys the support of an enthusiastic and dedicated committee. I would like to thank those members who are stepping down after years of service – Pip Hurley (Webber 85) and Chris Bennett (83) – and to welcome our new members: Vanessa Bennett (91) and Angus Abadee (07). Both Pip and Chris will remain involved in the work of the OBA by assisting on specific programs. Over the next few years, we will begin to see a significant lowering in the average age of OBA membership, as the much larger class sizes of recent times have their impact. By way of comparison, the Class of 1946 totalled just 44 students, whereas the 2016 Year 12 class numbers 325. It is important that our committee membership reflects this, while at the same time continuing to respect the history and traditions that make the Barker community something of which we are proud to be members.

Tony Gamson (78) OBA President

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Events

On Wednesday 18 May we welcomed 24 of our Barker Over 70s, including some wives and partners, to School for our annual Back to Barker Day.

Over 70s Back to

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

Our guests were greeted by the Head of Barker College, Phillip Heath at the start of the day before they headed off to class for their first lesson. We all met for morning tea and then went to the second lesson of the day. Classes this year included French, Latin, English, Geography, History and Science. We went to Chapel and then enjoyed a lovely lunch in the dining room together. Some went home after lunch and others stayed to enjoy a presentation from Bob Lamond (51) in the Council Room. It was fantastic to be joined again by Ian Grant (49) and Molly, who flew from Western Australia to be a part of the day.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Events

The North Coast Regional Luncheon was held on 29 May 2016 at the seaside Sicilian Restaurant in Forster and was coordinated by Ted Gaden (58) and Denver Webb (59).

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

Forster

A total of 34 past students, parents and staff attended from the surrounding areas of Wingham, Forster, Taree, Port Macquarie and Sydney. An abundance of Sicilian/Italian food was served and enjoyed by all. It was a pleasure to have Bob Charley (55) attend and speak of his extended family connections to Barker College. Bob also spoke of his pride in Barker’s current initiative, the establishment of the Darkinjung Barker Campus on the Central Coast in Yarramalong. All this was intertwined with suitable poetry recitals. Keith Bedggood (57) thanked Bob Charley for his words and then spoke of his passion for Barker and his connection with The Leslie’s men.

The guests were pleased to hear of Barker’s future plans and impressed with the planned refurbishment to Leslie Hall, to ensure the facility continues to reflect the reputation held so highly by Bill Leslie. Dessert followed, and gratified guests left for their respective long or short journeys home, many commenting on how they are looking forward to the next regional gathering, which will be in Port Macquarie. Past students who attended were Ian Barberie (56), Keith Bedggood (57), Jane Bedggood (84), Bob Charley (55), Ted Gaden (58), Don Gilchrist (77), John Grigg (59), John Jenkins (59), David Massy-Greene (59), David Mitchell (57), Sam Pratten (58) and Denver Webb (59). Ted Gaden (58) Reunion Organiser

On Thursday 7 April, we held our annual catchup for the Barker community living in Hong Kong with over 30 guests attending. Hong Kong was abuzz with the excitement of the Rugby 7s, which started on the Friday. One of the sons of our old boy, Scott Kieran (87), was playing as part of the opening dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proceedings, so we even had a Barker connection there. Brayden Winkler (07) did a wonderful job of organising the catchup, and has done a fabulous job keeping the Hong Kong group connected. Head of Barker College, Phillip Heath, and Director of Alumni Relations, Mandy Loomes were both able to attend and Phillip spoke to the group about the Barker College of today and its plans for the future.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

event

Class of 1971

Above The Class of 1971

We would like to thank Karina Drummond from the Barker Alumni Office for helping us organise our gathering. Wolfgang Hofbrucker Mike Langford

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

On 14 May, the 1971 leavers had their 45-year reunion. We met at the Hornsby RSL Club for dinner to reminisce and catch up with school friends. Our guests for the evening included teachers that have left a mark on our lives, including Mr John Dickson, Mr Peter Landahl, and Mr Ian Campbell. We were fortunate to have the company of Mr Phillip Heath, the current Head of Barker College, who joined us and gave us a short summary of the current and proposed future of Barker. The lucky door prize of a bottle of De Bortoli Old Boys port was won by Andrew Hemming.

OBA GROUPS

Groups

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

Old Barker

Club

A return to the Premier League, promotion for Division 6 and potential finals football for the women’s team. All are key outcomes from what is shaping up to be one of the most successful football seasons OBFC has been involved with. As the 2016 season draws to a close, with only a handful of games remaining at the time of writing, our Premier League squad has secured its place in the top division for next year. This was largely thanks to a five-match unbeaten run in the middle of the season, which included a 6-0 thumping of title contenders Kissing Point, with Josh ‘The Great’ Gadsby scoring four. Division 6 absolutely dominated their competition, with both the reserve grade and first grade teams currently way out on top of their tables, guaranteeing their promotion to Division 5 for 2017. A special mention to the superstars playing for reserve grade, having not lost a single match to date, scoring 62 goals and only conceding four across the 12 matches that have been played. With an influx of new players from Chatswood Rangers, Division 5 started strongly in a very competitive group. Although suffering some minor hiccups mid-season, things are back on track and a top four finish is certainly on the cards. The women’s team, now in its fifth season, was promoted to Division 2 after finishing third last year. David O’Keefe (DoK), current coach of the Barker College 1XI Girls team, came on board along with assistant coach, Ross Bird. After a difficult start to the season, unable to notch up a victory in

Above Matt Robinson shooting high and wide. Below OBFC women’s team at half time.

their first five matches, the experience and talent of DoK and Ross came to the fore and after a lot of hard work from the girls they won six games in their past eight matches. This has skyrocketed them up the table to their current position of second place, within striking distance of promotion to the first division. It has been a fantastic performance by all club members this season and I congratulate everyone on their contribution. Without each and every individual’s passion and commitment, we wouldn’t be where we are today. Up the Reds. Peter Gregory (03) www.facebook.com/oldbarkerfc peter.gregory11@gmail.com

OBA GROUPS

Barker Old Boys Barker Old Boys Cricket Club is looking to recruit new members for the 2016/17 season. The club has a rich history in the City & Suburban Cricket Association, where we come up against old foes including Old Cranbrookians, Old Knoxonians, Kings Old Boys, IZingari and Old Aloysians every year. Please contact us to obtain pre-season net session dates and locations. Match fixtures are usually on Sunday afternoons and are all played on turf wickets. We are certainly looking forward to a long, hot summer of cricket. BOBs Cricket will be pushing to emulate the heights of our inaugural Jack Pace Shield competition win in season 2014/15, and improve on our last season close semi-final defeat at the hands of Cricketers’ Club of NSW.

There is always an opportunity to become involved at any time within our season, so please feel free to contact us at our Facebook page or via phone or email. Matt Hall (00) Sam Haeney (05) 0416 297 775 0413 766 207 matt.hall19@icloud.com sam.haeney@gmail.com

Matt Hall (00) Club Captain

Barker Old Girls Hockey Barker Old Girls Hockey Club have enjoyed playing in the North Shore Women’s Hockey Association competition on Sundays this season. The summer competition starts in October and is played on a weeknight. If you are interested in joining Barker Old Girls Hockey Club, we are always looking for new players, so please contact our team manager Laura Handel at lauhandel@gmail.com or visit us at our Barker Old Girls Hockey Club Facebook page. Laura Handel (06) Team Manager

BOBs It has been fantastic to see such an influx of young players coming out of Year 12. This is something we would like to see continue into the future. Our Colts program has been highly successful over the past few years, and we are looking forward to seeing some of our younger players graduate into the senior ranks in the coming years. If Rugby is something that interests you and on a Saturday you feel like there is something missing in your life, I implore you to dust off the boots and head down to Turramurra Oval for a run-around. We cater to all player abilities and would love to see some fresh faces at the Bob Dome in 2017. Liam Flanagan (03) Secretary

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

After a disappointing end to the 2016 season, Barker Old Boys Rugby Union Football Club is looking to click into gear in 2017. We elected a new committee at our recent AGM and are looking forward to beginning pre-season training at the end of 2016. BOBRUFC off-season strength and conditioning training commences shortly and I encourage all past, present and interested future players to get involved. Our rugby playing days are limited; don’t let them pass you by! We recently held our end of year presentation night, which was well attended. Awards were given out to the Best and Fairest players as well as Clubman of the Year and Overall Best and Fairest Winners. A special mention must go to Chris Gray (96), who notched up his 400th game for the club despite many retirements throughout his years playing at Barker Old Boys. This is now a record for Barker Old Boys Rugby Union Football Club. Many congratulations, Chris.

OBA GROUPS

Groups Old Barker Association OBAT’s third ever production, Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest, hit the Barker stage this July. It ran over three hilarious nights, saw some old OBAT faces return: Charlie Jones (10), Kirsty McNee (13), Adam Jones (13), Jack Roach (10) and introduced plenty of new ones; James Winestock (10), Sam Henderson (10), Caitlin Williams (15), James Cummins (14), Jeremy Chivas (15), Viran Weerasekera (15), Jonny McNee (11). It also saw us more involved than ever as we each served in the cast and as director and assistant director. OBAT relies on the support and contributions of the wider Barker Alumni community and we are eternally grateful to our unwavering supporters. Equally, we are always on the lookout for more old Barker thespians, willing to get involved and to help this society grow into something even more special, reflecting the enormous support given to the dramatic arts by Barker. As ever, if you would like to be involved, please reach out. In view of this, we would like to put the feelers out regarding a summer season in 2016/17. We have never done this before and would like to encourage anyone reading this who is keen to be involved with OBAT especially in the summer holidays, to contact us. The success of this year’s production is testament to the

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

Barker Old Girls

exhaustive efforts of a beautiful cast and crew, the sacrifices of their ever-understanding families, the continued support given to us by the College and the OBA, and the amazing audiences that came, sometimes twice, to see our show. You can contact us at obatheatre@live.com or visit us on Facebook: facebook.com/Obatheatre Amie McNee (10) and Cassandra Jones (10) Co-Presidents, OBAT

Club

The Barker Old Girls Netball club has been competing strongly in the Hills District Netball Association Saturday competition. As the regular season draws to an end, we look towards maintaining our top four position in the leadup to the finals. Our team this competition is a combination of existing members, new members and netball first-timers, and we’ve developed a great team atmosphere and comradery between us all. Our next competition begins in September with the spring night competition at Pennant Hills Park. We are taking registrations for this competition, so if you would like to play, please send an email to barkeroldgirlsnetball@gmail.com. We welcome all players of all abilities, and we work in assigning new members to a team either with their group of friends or close to their alumni year. Or you could bring your own team! Hope to hear from you and see you out on the courts. Lauren Kirkby (07) and Jordana Shawyer (06) Co-Presidents

Above Getting ready to play.

OBA GROUPS

Above Performing at the 2016 Novus Foundation Gala Dinner.

OBA

Club

We enjoyed performing at the 2016 Novus Foundation Gala Dinner in May, which was a fabulous event. Then in late July, the OBA Big Band was the opening act at one of Barkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest events, Barker Swings. We departed from some of our classic repertoire and treated the audience to some more modern, funky pieces. This included Uptown Funk (Bruno Mars), Jungle (The Cat Empire) and perhaps most obscure of all, a Super Mario video game piece from the Nintendo 64 era. In recent weeks we have added a classic Beyonce hit to our repertoire and the 90s kids show theme, Hey Arnold! With our funky repertoire growing and growing, the OBA Big Band will be groovinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; through the year in style. If you would like to contact the OBA Big Band, please email OBA_bigband@barker.nsw.edu.au

Watching the elite athletes compete at the recent Rio Olympics is always 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 Saturdays. If you are an old or current student looking to build some speed or get fit, please get in touch with us. Contact Glen Parker (glen@retailsystems.com.au) for more information. Tim Willatt (07) OBA Athletics

Luke Davis (09) OBA Big Band Representative

Society

Have you turned 70? If so, there is an organisation for you. The Over 70s is a social group and run a number of events each year. Our next event will be in October; a day trip to visit the new Darkinjung Campus followed by a lunch. Invitations and more information will be sent out with the next newsletter. If you would like further information, please contact Mandy Loomes in the Alumni Office on 02 9847 8229 or over70s@barker.nsw.edu.au Peter Ward (59)

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

If your children have left Barker and you would still like to support the school and be part of the Barker Community events, then the Kurrajong Society is for you. We send a regular newsletter, Kurrajong News, to keep you updated on what is happening at Barker College. If you would like more information, please contact us at kurrajong@barker.nsw.edu.au

Over

PERSONAL NOTES

Notes

(Number in brackets is the alumni year)

Andrew Clark (81) I married Carolyn Le Compte from Pymble in 1991. We settled in the lower Blue Mountains, where we still reside. We have two children, Robbie and Stephen. Robbie is a Primary Teacher and Stephen an apprentice cabinet maker. I run Logistics Help, a consulting firm for small and medium enterprises. Despite rejecting Jesus through my school years, I was saved the year after in 1982 and am currently a member at Soma Blue Mountains helping to build a church model based on Missional Communities. David Whittingham (96) Janice (Radloff 90), myself and our four kids are living in Bathurst where I am one of the ministers at Bathurst Presbyterian Church. We’re loving living in the country telling people that Jesus brings real hope, joy and meaning to those who trust him. We’re learning how to parent our first high schooler. I can’t believe it’s been 20 years since I did year 12!

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

Phillip Cook (98) and his wife Samantha welcomed their first son, Harvey Lincoln Cook, on New Year’s Eve, 2015.

Simon Chivas (12) I completed my Bachelor of Business majoring in Marketing & Communication at the University of Technology, Sydney in 2015. In 2016, I was accepted into the UTS Marketing Honours program. I am proud to receive the Marketing Honours Scholarship to undertake the extra year of research and study. I am researching how different types and formats of product information presented in the purchase environment can help consumers make healthier food choices and encourage healthy eating. Through the opportunity to undertake an Honours thesis, I expect to build my applied marketing knowledge and learn how both quantitative and qualitative research can adjust within and to a real world context.

I am currently working as a marketing and sales assistant within a small family business. If you would like to keep in touch, please contact me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ simonchivas

Olivia Prior with her parents Jason (05) and Kirsty on the left and her godparents on the right.

Australia Day Honours Peter Charles Iverson (64) was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to children with cancer, and to their families. Queen’s Birthday Honours Dr Jennifer May (Judges 79) was awarded Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia for significant service to community health in rural and regional areas, as a general practitioner, to professional medical groups, and to education. Andrew Somerville Kay (71) was awarded Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia for significant service to the performing arts through senior advocacy roles in the live performance industry, and as a producer. Baptisms 29 November Georgia Alyce, daughter of Renee and Derryn Brown (04) 22 May Natasha Joy, daughter of Ashlea (Hunter 03) and Adam Zivanovic (03) 19 June Scarlett Nora Lea Molitor, daughter of Julia (Boyce 97) and Michael Molitor. 19 June Harrison Timothy, son of Laura and Tim Westbrook (02) 17 July George Steven, son of Katrina and David Thomlinson (04)

Lion Cub Club We welcome two more of the children born to our Alumni, to the Lion Cub Club.

OBITUARIES

Obituaries (Number in brackets is the alumni year)

John Scott Baker (46) 1929-2016

Cecil Horace Baker (41) 1925-2016

Cecil Baker, late of Tamworth, attended Barker from 1937 to 1941. Whilst at Barker, Cecil was a member of the Cadet Unit, promoted to Lance Corporal in 1940 and then Sergeant in 1941. He was also a keen sportsman, which included being a member of the Athletics Team. In his final year Cecil played in the 2nd XV Rugby team and the 1st XI Cricket Team, for which he received Colours. After finishing at Barker, Cecil attended the University of Sydney to study medicine. He graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at the age of 22. He did his post graduate residency at Hornsby Hospital and later he became a Registrar of Ophthalmology at

Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. After marrying in 1949, he sailed to London earning his passage as the ship’s surgeon, and studied at Moorfield’s Eye Hospital, gaining another degree in ophthalmology from the Royal College of Surgeons and Physicians of London. On his return to Sydney, he was appointed Honorary Medical Officer to the Children’s Hospital in Camperdown. He bought an Ophthalmology practice in Tamworth in 1952 and retired in 2005 at the age of 80. There were few eye specialists in the North West Region in the earlier days. He was a specialist, a generalist by necessity and an amazing surgeon. He continued to further his studies in new techniques overseas in Philadelphia, Boston, Barcelona, and Switzerland. He visited Norfolk Island every year on a voluntary basis for the Save Sight programme, run by the Lions Club of Norfolk Island. He was President of the Royal Blind Society, Patron of the Visually Impaired Society in Tamworth, President of the Pistol Club, Secretary of the Tennis Club and a Councillor of the school council of The Tamworth Church of England Girls’ School (now Calrossy). He travelled to India in 1973 to perform cataract surgery and corneal grafts. In 1991 he was awarded the NSW Premier’s Award for significant community service in India and Norfolk Island. He was an active Rotarian for 53 years, was President of the Club and was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship. He led a group study team to Iceland. He also continued his sporting interests and played golf and tennis regularly. After an amazing professional career, a life devoted to his patients and family, Cecil passed away on 19 June 2016. He is survived by his three daughters, nine grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. James William McElhone Clift (43) 1924 - 2015 James (Jim) Clift, late of Lismore, formerly of Breeza, Condamine Qld and the Tweed, attended Barker College from 1938 to 1942. Whilst at Barker, Jim did well academically and enjoyed many sporting activities including swimming, athletics, cricket and rugby. In 1942, Jim was a member of the 1st XI and 1st XV and was

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

John Scott Baker, late of Lindfield, attended Barker from 1940 to 1946. John was a keen member of the Athletics team throughout his time at Barker and was also on the Athletics Committee as well as being awarded the Challenge Cup for Senior Open Champion in 1946. He played in the 1st XV Rugby Team in 1945 and 1946, receiving Colours, as well as playing Cricket and working with his peers in the Barker Cadet Corps. In his final year at Barker, John was a Prefect and also played the title role in the School’s production of The Man in the Bowler Hat. John remained fiercely loyal to Barker and enthusiastically attended many activities and events with the Over 70s Barker old boys, known as Leslie’s Men. Following Barker, John joined Dalgetys as a bookkeeper where he spent 13 years, including four years in Narrandera (1952-1956) enjoying the country folk and the rural way of life. John then joined W.JNO Baker, The House of Steel that was established in 1888 by his grandfather, who had opened his first business as a cutler and ironmonger in George Street. For 30 years, John managed both the retail business of fine china, imported cutlery, scissors and penknives, as well as the workshop and factory manufacturing of ear tags, rural supplies, leatherwork, sharpening and repairs. John always maintained Bakers’ proud reputation of high quality products and service and exhibited regularly at the Royal Easter Show. In 1986 John modified the business to operate predominantly as mail order. To complement this change John travelled the country, attending field days throughout the east coast of Australia before retiring in 1993. For over 100 years, W JNO Baker has worked with Australia’s rural businesses. Throughout his life John maintained

his passion for sport playing cricket, golf and bowls, whilst always a supporter of Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, Gordon Rugby Union and the Sydney Swans among others. His four children also benefitted from his enthusiasm as he volunteered to manage, coach and spectate the myriad of sports they played throughout their lives, from rugby to softball and surfing to netball. However, first and foremost was John’s love for his family and commitment and loyalty to his friends. He was cherished and loved dearly, respected and held in high regard. He was referred to as a friend’s friend, honourable and “a true gentleman.” John passed away unexpectedly on 20 April 2016 surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; his children Susan, Mark, Robyn and Andrew and their families, including a very recent addition, his first great grandson, Louis John Lefebvre.

OBITUARIES

Obituaries continued (Number in brackets is the alumni year)

James William McElhone Clift (43) also a Prefect of the School. Barker College he remembered as a very enjoyable part of his life and he maintained contact with some of his old boy mates throughout his life. Unfortunately, Jim did not complete his final year due to a family crisis. His father suffered a bad fall from a horse. Jim was required to go home to help run the property because it was at the height of World War II and no other manpower was available. Jim followed a life on the land initially near his home at Breeza, then developing a 6,500 acre Queensland property near Condamine and finally having involvement in a sugar cane farm on the Tweed. He was very active in many local affairs including politics, especially agro-politics, organising and fundraising for building the Church of England church at Condamine, and involved in various civic organisations and activities. Initially his sporting interest was football but later he concentrated on water skiing and was one of the pioneers of that activity in rural Queensland in the early 1960s. Jim eventually retired to Lismore where he passed away on 31 October, 2015 aged 91 years. He is survived by his wife, Pat, and his four sons together with their extended families.

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016

Bruce Fellows Hutcherson (40) 1921-2016

Bruce Hutcherson, late of Turramurra, attended Barker from 1936 to 1938 as a boarder. His brothers Raymond (1940, deceased) and Geoffrey (1945, deceased) also attended Barker as did his children Allan (1970), Henry (known as Ian, 1968) and his granddaughter Holly Farthing (05). Bruce was delighted

when his great grandson Ned Dempsey was enrolled for 2027. Whilst at Barker, Bruce enjoyed success as a member of the Athletics Team and in his later years was a keen supporter of the Old Barker Over 70s Club, attending many events. After leaving Barker, Bruce began working for Hutcherson Brothers as an apprentice builder. The building and civil engineering company started by his father in 1919 was based in Sydney. At the outbreak of the war, Bruce was conscripted into the Civil Construction Corps which was an Australian government civil organisation. Here, Bruce’s building expertise resulted in him overseeing the building of military airfields and barracks for the army and air force all over Northern Australia. At the end of the war he returned to working for Hutcherson Brothers, where he was responsible for the construction of many major building projects including the nuclear reactor at Lucas Heights and the U.S. Navy’s Communications Base at North West Cape in WA, as well as the second stage of the Barker Science Block in 1967. Bruce continued his involvement in the building industry his whole life, resulting in him being honoured as a Fellow and Life Member of the Australian Institute of Building in 1989. Outside of work Bruce was committed to a life of community service, being a lifelong member of Ku-Ring-Gai Lions Club since joining in 1954 and holding every office there from Treasurer to President. This culminated in him being made an International Lions Fellow in 2010 and a Life Member in 2015. Bruce loved the bush, having been involved in farming for over 20 years in the Hunter Valley as well as being a keen gardener and long term member of the Camellia Society of New South Wales. This resulted in him being involved in the restoration of the house and garden of Eryldene, Professor Waterhouse’s home in Lindfield. Bruce passed away on 7 May 2016 and is survived by his sons Allan and Ian, his daughter Margaret, seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren Hugh King Roberts AM (52) 1936-2016 Hugh Roberts, late of Turramurra, attended Barker from 1945 to 1952. Other family members who attended Barker included his brother John (46) and nephews David (83) and Geoffrey (85). Whilst at Barker, Hugh was a member of the Chess Team in 1949 and 1950, played Rugby in the Under 15B XV and Cricket in the 2nd XI in 1951 and the 4th XI in 1952.

Hugh King Roberts AM Never a sport enthusiast, he maintained a lifelong interest in his favourite school subjects, Music and Latin. He was an accomplished pianist with a special gift for sight reading. He accompanied choirs and soloists and played in chamber music groups. After leaving school he worked as an articled clerk, studied law at night and on graduation worked in private legal firms before joining the NSW Government Legal Service. In 1976 he was appointed Crown Solicitor, where he was responsible for managing the legal business of the state government. He advised Attorneys General and Premiers on both sides of politics and was highly respected for his legal knowledge and his impartial advice. He played a key role in introducing computers to the Crown Solicitor’s Office. He was awarded an AM in 1996. Hugh grew up in Beecroft and moved to Turramurra after his marriage to Speech Pathologist Hilary Oakman in 1965. During his retirement he served on the Board of The Song Company, Australia’s preeminent acapella group, was treasurer of STEP, a local environment group, visited refugees in detention and attended many adult education courses. A life long student of history, he enjoyed travel to Egypt, Turkey, Europe and Asia, as well as trips to visit his daughter in England. He accepted his diagnosis of Alzheimers with calm dignity and found new activities when old ones were beyond him. When he could no longer read history and philosophy he found enjoyment in short poems. He may be the only person who went to Dementia Day Care with a poetry book in his back pack! In the 1950s Barker College instilled gentlemanly manners in its students. Despite his failing memory, these stayed with Hugh until the end of his life - he always stood up when someone entered the room and shook hands with everyone when he left. He passed away 1 June 2016. He is survived by his wife Hilary, children Tom and Celia, 4 grandchildren and his brother John.

OBA EVENTS

Old Barker 2016/17 At the OBA AGM held on Tuesday 19 July the following alumni were elected for the upcoming 2016/17 year: Committee Members: Indigenous Affairs, working as a policy advisor in Indigenous policy before moving to the Departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Angus Abadee (07) legal practice. In 2013, Angus moved to the Vanessa Bennett (91) Honorary Vice-President Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet to work Paul Goncharoff (88) Peter Gregory (03) on the constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Jenny Kalaf (Melville 78) Honorary Treasurer Torres Strait Islander peoples. Catherine Lancaster (82) Andrew Hassall (86) In 2015, Angus returned to Sydney and took David Slinn (80) up a position in the NSW Department of Justice Honorary Secretary David Trayner (84) as an advisor in criminal law policy for the NSW Matthew Ross-Smith (10) Henry Wells (10) Government, and is involved as a mentor in the Global Honorary Assistant Patrons: Scope Mentoring Program and serves on a number of Secretary Benjamin Anson (85) committees of NSW Young Lawyers. David Brookes (79) Sandy Hollway (64) Angus is interested in continuing the work of the Pip Hurley (Webber 85) Nominees to School Old Barker Association in engaging younger members Keith Thornton (64) Council: and delivering high quality services to alumni Michael Brodie (79) OBA Ambassador: members. Pennie Cruickshank (79) Chris Russell (70) Vanessa Bennett (91) Tony Gamson (78) Since leaving Barker, Vanessa spent almost 20 years working in financial services before moving into high We are grateful for the tireless work and effort from performance coaching for senior executives and small Chris Bennett (83) and Pip Hurley (Webber 85) who business owners. stepped down from the committee at the AGM. She is currently the CEO of Next Evolution Performance; a high performance coaching business We welcome two new committee members: focused on helping leaders, individuals and teams to Angus Abadee (07) maximise performance and to decrease their overall Angus Abadee started at Barker in 2000 in the effort to ensure that high performance is sustainable. Junior School, and graduated in 2007. During his time Prior to this, she was the Head of Sales for at Barker, Angus was involved in Cadets, debating, Dimensional Fund Advisors and prior to that she held cricket and fencing. senior sales roles with Macquarie Bank. Angus attended the University of Sydney where he Vanessa also qualified as a group fitness instructor attained a Bachelor of Economic and Social Science whilst completing her undergraduate university (2010) and Bachelor of Laws (2012). During his time studies and has always taught classes on top of her at university, Angus won several awards, including professional career. She still instructs and has been Department of Government and International with Fitness First for 15 years as a senior group fitness Relations High Achiever Award and Winner and Best instructor and mentor. Orator National Sir Harry Gibbs Constitutional Law In her spare time she enjoys travelling and Moot. spending time with many of her close friends from her Angus moved to Canberra in 2013, commencing Barker days. She is also a keen runner. work with the Commonwealth Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and President Tony Gamson (78)

THE OLD BARKER | SPRING 2016 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 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 Darkinjung and Lunch Tues 25 Oct 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 Sunshine Coast Sun 20 Nov Peter Maidens (54) (07) 5478 6206 Barker Alumni Events 2017 1967 – 50 Year Reunion Sat 16 Sept Peter McIntyre 0418 972 040 peter@mcin.com.au Ralf Rendall 0411 670 294 amalpropval@bigpond.com 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 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 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.