MELIORA SEQUAMUR BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL Community Magazine Winter 2013
2
A TRIBUTE TO THE HEADMASTER
A TRIBUTE TO THE HEADMASTER
Michael Urwin – a man with a big, warm personality Front cover: The Headmaster, Michael Urwin, celebrating at his Recognition Dinner held at Peninsula, Docklands on Thursday, 13 June 2013. Editor and Feature writer: Natalie van Wetering Key Contributors: Ian Paroissien, Andrew Biggin, Lizz McEneaney Peter Toms and Michelle Wilson. Photography: Andrew Biggin, Mark Chew, Patch Clapp, James Grant, John Phillips, Natalie van Wetering and the BGS archives. Designed by: Designgrant Printed by: Adams Print Registered by Australia Post: 100001167 To keep up with BGS news and photos,Like us on our Facebook Page Erratum Apologies to Monty Stephens who was misquoted in the last edition as describing boys as deceitful; he had said delightful.
The recent Recognition Dinner for our Headmaster, Michael Urwin, attended by 440 people from all elements of Michael’s life, was a wonderful tribute to a man who has given so much to Brighton Grammar School over 18 years. The night reflected the abundant warmth and respect of everyone in the room and how well he has been regarded by the School community over his journey. When he arrived in 1996 in the role of 7th Headmaster, Michael followed Robert Rofe, a Headmaster with a big personality who had made a huge impact on the School over 29 years. For Michael this must have been both exciting and daunting. From the beginning Michael understood the great challenge for schools is that while the values the boys need to be successful basically remain the same, what changes is the context: the changing society in which we live and schools operate, and the changing expectations of boys, their parents, staff and the wider community. That change has been dramatic. If you reflect on just how much change has occurred through Michael’s time it provides context for how much the School has also needed to change to continue to be successful. Brighton Grammar is a school that has dramatically evolved under Michael’s leadership: • He has an innate understanding of those traditions important to the
fabric of the School which have been reinforced, and those that needed to change that have been replaced with new ones. • He led the change to the more relaxed and celebratory culture • He placed importance on upgrading the infrastructure and learning environment and preached from the start ‘to build to a vision, not a budget’ • He led significant change to what we teach, and the way we teach it • He has recognized the importance of strategy, and where strategic planning and development is embedded in what we do. We are a school that knows what it is and where it wants to go • And Michael has been a leader who is a team player, so the School has benefited from strong team-based leadership As the Chair of Council for the last 10 years, I have seen first-hand and often, the daily challenges and pressures Michael has faced and the increased complexity of the role. I have watched countless times how he has responded to these challenges, some small but many significant, and some very public. The ones that affected Michael the most were the personal tragedies. How the School has responded to all these events could not, in my view, have been better handled and I put this down to Michael’s leadership and how much
he cares. Michael has a great set of Christian ethics and values from which I have never, ever seen him deviate from.
...with dignity and courage.
• It is the welfare of the boys that lies at the heart of what he cares about and his decision making
When Michael came to Brighton Grammar from his role as Deputy Headmaster at Brisbane Grammar School, he was young, (41), ambitious, quietly confident yet cautious.
• He works very hard, takes his job incredibly seriously but not himself • It is always we and us, never I. He is a very humble man • He wants little for himself but is very generous. When I asked him what he would like if people wanted to acknowledge his contribution he was very quick to say - help the School so we can continue with our vision • He listens and is consultative in a world where everyone is an expert • Mostly, he has given his heart and soul to this school in a wonderful example of leadership through service. It has been an honour and privilege to have worked with Michael Urwin. He will hand to his successor a school in the process of exciting change, which requires no catch up, rather is poised to take off to the next level. Michael Urwin is a man with a big, warm personality but who has never quite appreciated how well he is liked, valued and respected. The Recognition Dinner and the Community farewell event at the end of this year will, I believe, be the best testimony to what he has achieved, the person he is, and the huge number of people he has touched on the journey. Ian Paroissien Chariman of Council
There were a few obvious early changes heralding the new era – his youth for one. George Thomson, Chairman of Council at the time, recently observed, “The staff embraced the Urwin era with a great deal of confidence from the very beginning”. His reputation for hard work preceded him. On finding out his secretary in Brisbane started at 7.30 am simply to keep up with him, his new secretary Pam Costin made it very clear things would be different by firmly stating, “I don’t start work at 7.30”. And so began one of those great working relationships lasting 16 and a half years until Pam’s retirement. Michael has a natural sense of social justice – his inherent sense for doing what is right and fair is one of his great strengths. This is demonstrated in so many ways, such as his historic decision to allow mothers to attend the Valedictory Dinner, which had previously been an all-male affair; allowing non-teaching staff equal access to the Staff Common Room, and changing the dress code to allow female staff to wear pants to work.
Michael is also fiercely competitive – something he has been all his life. Whether participating in a footy tipping competition, barracking from the sidelines, competing in a trivia fundraising night or watching RockWiz – he loves to win! According to his son David, Michael loved Sale of the Century and ‘mourned’ its axing. Those who knew Michael growing up knew he would be a teacher. Known as a ‘goody, goody’ at school, Michael thrived in the structure of the school environment getting involved in everything on offer. Michael reflected, “From about the age of 12 or 13 I was determined to teach.” He was a gifted language student getting A for Chinese, French and Pure Mathematics in VCE (a B for Applied Maths and surprisingly a D for English!) and went on to study Chinese, Mathematics and History at the University of Melbourne followed by a Dip Ed. A defining period of Michael’s life was the 12 months he spent living and teaching in Nanjing, the first exchange teacher in a program set up between Victoria and Jiangsu Provence in 1982. It was through this program Michael met Jianjun, his future wife. It was unusual to see a westerner in Nanjing in the early 80s – and Michael was considered quite ‘curious’. Although he was not even 30 many assumed he was much older maybe even in his 50s simply because he wore a beard, something a man in China would never do until he was in his 60s or 70s!
What is most remarkable about Michael Urwin is actually the man. His integrity, his extraordinary sense of duty and responsibility, always doing what is right for the School – above all else, his generosity, his inspiring speeches delivered in his commanding voice, his sharp intelligence and quick wit. Michael has been an outstanding example of a servant leader. When asked about what is his greatest achievement, Michael didn’t hesitate to declare, “My son!” – and anyone who heard David speak at the recent dinner would agree. Certainly David Urwin is Michael’s greatest legacy, but a close second is the gift Michael, the man, has made to BGS leading with dignity and courage through an era of great change, and leaving in his wake a caring, thriving and successful school for boys. See overleaf for Michael's amazing achievements at BGS. ABOVE LEFT Ian Paroissien, Chairman of Council, strolling through the grounds with the Headmaster, Michael Urwin Below Michael with his family in 1996 after being appointed as Headmaster of BGS bottom left Michael with his son, David, at the Recognition Dinner held in June 2013
3
4
5
MICHAEL URWIN RECOGNITION DINNER - 13 JUNE 2013
KEY HIGHLIGHTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS Cultural changes • Gowns no longer worn in the classroom – only for Chapel, assemblies and formal occasions • Allowed the staff and parents to address him as Michael instead of Headmaster • Allowed non-teaching staff to use the common rooms • Allowed female staff to wear pants to work • Allowed mothers as well as fathers to attend the Valedictory Dinner • Established the BGS Hall of Fame • Positioned BGS ‘we teach boys’ • Established a closer and more cooperative relationship with Firbank Grammar • Established the Sequamur Society bequest group • Established the Pink Dinner for the women of BGS • Established the Blue Dinner for the men of BGS • Established the Dalziel Club • Established Friends of Cricket • Introduced Snowsports • Established the International Parents’ Support Group • Introduced Soccer as a winter sport, and Lawn Bowls in summer • Introduced Duke of Edinburgh and St. John Ambulance programs • Hosted Football Team of the Century • Hosted Cricket Team of the Century • Established BGS Corporate Connections breakfast program • Introduced the Headmaster’s Dinners for the parents of Year 12 boys leaving the School • Hosted a staff conference in Papua New Guinea
• Re-invigorated our relationship with the Martyrs’ Memorial School in Papua New Guinea • Increased father/son and mother/son activities organised by the School • Hosted BGS 125 celebrations • Raised the profile and success of Chess • Raised the profile and success of Debating • Supported the first Japan-based reunion • Hosted the first China-based reunion • Established the Student Council • Changed the Senior School pastoral care structure to House based system • Introducted the annual Benefactors Service Strategic change • Introduced formal strategic planning and review • Developed a facilities masterplan • Increased resources and emphasis on staff professional development • Established the BGS Sponsor program • Established Sh@re Community Campus (community education) • Established regular Senior Executive Team meetings • Established the Crowther Centre for Learning and Innovation Academic Changes • Conducted concerts in Hamer Hall & Melbourne Recital Centre • Introduced the Year 9 BGS Sea Change program • Made Cadets optional, not compulsory • Introduced mobile tablets across secondary school • Moved from Labertouche to a more diverse, expanded Outdoor Ed program
• Introduced the teaching of Mandarin • Undertook student cultural tours to China, Europe, New Caledonia • Established the Milikapiti program • Introduced team teaching and flexible learning spaces in the Middle School • Established the Year 8 iDesign program • Introduced 3 Year Old Kindergarten • Increased resources for boys with special needs at both ends of the spectrum • Expanded the Student Counselling service • Used data to monitor the VCE program • Introduced Academic Merit and Distinction Certificates • Introduced Academic Scholar Awards • Implemented an online LMS and reporting system • Increased teaching time for academic subjects • Restructured prize giving ceremonies at the end of the year Organisational structure • Created the Human Resources Role • Created the Risk and Compliance Role • Created the Director of Studies Role • Created the dedicated Careers Counsellor role • Created the Alumni Relations role • Restructured academic leadership to include Directors of Resources and Curriculum Leaders • Established Coordinators of Teaching and Learning across the School • Replaced Heads of Year in Senior School with Heads of House
Major Capital works • Redevelopment of the Junior School • Senior School Library Resource Centre • Healing of the Quad • Creating the Atrium • Hay Family Lecture Theatre • Weights and Conditioning Centre • Demolition of the Crowther Pavilion • Playing Fields redevelopment • Major water harvesting and storage project • The Peter Toms ELC • Redevelopment of the GB Robertson Hall • Purchase of Girrawheen • Refurbishment of the Girrawheen Chapel • Built a new Middle School • Improved staff facilities across the School • Installation of learning technology in every classroom External Roles • Australian Anglican Schools Network Management Committee 2002-2005 • Drug Education Advisory Committee, Victorian Department of Education 2000-2005 • Trustee of the International Schools Boys’ Coalition since 2007-2013 • Executive Committee AHISA (Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia) 2005-2011; Chair 2005-2007 • Chair of Associated Publics Schools (VIC) Heads Association 2004-2006
6
7
Celebrating diversity at School In the 1960s BGS opened its doors to the first overseas students from Hong Kong and expanded in the 70s to boys from Japan. Today we welcome boys from every continent – some here studying on their own away from family and others accompanying parents on ex-pat posts. But sometimes we forget life as an international student can be challenging. About 20 of our current boys are here without family – for these boys, and several others, English is their second language making the challenge of study even greater. ESL (English as a Second Language) classes with a dedicated teacher who assists each boy at his own level is an
important way the School helps boys consolidate their English language skills. These classes build confidence and make learning subjects in other classes much easier. One way to help our boys adjust to life in a new school in a foreign culture is to encourage them to participate in the BGS International Students' Group. The International Students' Group helps the boys make new friends and provides social activities such as monthly breakfasts, BBQs, outings to sporting events and other activities. The Group is headed up by a Prefect – and this year we in fact have two Captains of the International Students' Group, Chen Qian and Arif Gobel.
A boy's perspective Chen Qian (Year 12) Prefect and Co-Captain of the International Students' Group came to BGS from China. “I arrived at BGS half-way through Year 8 and on my third day I was thrust off to School camp. It was all a bit disorientating at first. My English was pretty rough but this indoctrination definitely helped me pick up the language quickly and bond with my fellow class mates. As time progressed I took up drama and music which helped enormously with speaking English. Outside of School I used to work at a café which helped with my English and barista skills!
Arif Gobel (Year 12) Prefect and Co- Captain of the International Students' Group
Congratulations Bosco
“At first it was difficult to adapt to life in a new country. I arrived at BGS in Year 8, so I’ve been here for four years now. Although I could speak English I was not confident at first. I had arrived from Indonesia and had to learn a new school system, make friends and adjust to a whole new way of life…
The inaugural International School Students Awards Program for outstanding achievement and contribution made by international students to the schools sector in Victoria were established by the Victorian Government last year.
I was very lucky that the boys at School were so friendly and helped me both inside and outside the classroom. On my first day another student coaxed me to join in a game of four-square and from thereon I made new friends and grew in confidence.
I also participated in public speaking and debating which helped improve my English speaking skills and was a great way to make new friends.
As an international student you have to step outside your comfort zone and to mix with people. This way you learn so much and grow as an individual. Also you have to make an effort to speak English inside and outside the classroom. I play badminton, soccer and the acoustic guitar – all help with my English.
I know I’m lucky to be an international student. The experiences I’ve had have made me more mature and have changed the way I think. I’m a more rounded person now.”
Until recently I worked in a Japanese restaurant in the city which helped not only with Japanese but English too, as I had to converse with English-speaking patrons.
In VCE Chen is studying English, Chemistry, Specialist Mathematics and Accounting. He hopes to go to university and study Physics.
Moving to a new country and going to BGS has given me great opportunities I’d never have experienced if I’d stayed in Indonesia. I’ve met boys from other cultures and learned the Western way-of-life.“
LeFT Chen Qian and Arif Gobel
Arif studies Art, ESL, Mathematic Methods, Japanese and French. He is aiming to go to university and study for a business-related degree.
"I know I’m lucky to be an international student. The experiences I’ve had have made me more mature and have changed the way I think..." – Chen Qian
Nineteen finalists gathered on 21 May 2013 at Parliament House, where Victoria’s Minister for Education, the Hon. Martin Dixon, announced the successful recipient in each award category along with a prestigious International Student of the Year Ambassador Award selected from all of the nominees. Among the finalists was Bosco Tam (Class of 2012) who attended BGS throughout his secondary schooling, was a Prefect in 2012 and Captain of the International Students' Group. Bosco was thrilled to receive a certificate for “Outstanding Achievement” in the Student Leadership Award category at the ceremony attended by his family, the Headmaster and Mrs Maggie Lynch (International Student Liaison Coordinator).
Taking BGS to China In March our Headmaster, Michael Urwin, and Director of Admissions, Jo Hudson, attended a number of educational expos throughout China to showcase the School and attract future students.
On completing school Bosco received offers from three universities: Commerce Law at Monash, Veterinary Science at the University of Queensland and Business Administration at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Hong Kong’s number 1 university). Having originally come from Hong Kong, Bosco has decided at this stage to return home to study with the plan of perhaps returning to Australia in the future.
Although this was the first time we have attended these expos it was a great success. As well as receiving enrolment applications, we took the opportunity to host two community events – one in Hong Kong and one in Shanghai to meet up with Old Boys as well as parents of current, past and future students. Jo Hudson said, “A highlight for me was the opportunity to meet parents – past, present and future – and see the free exchange of information between them. Parents are the best spokespeople for our School and the parental network that is emerging is a great advocate for BGS.”
P O S T C A R D
What a catch!
shark 16 kg gummy Check out the ile on r 9) caught wh Sam Morris (Yea shing Sea Change Fi his March BGS eenscliff! Expedition in Qu
Top A friendly prospective student meets the Headmaster MIDDLE Bosco (2012) and brother Kenny (2011) Tam and Roy Tan (OB 64) assist in Hong Kong Bottom Richard Roberts (OB 87), Matthew Jackson (OB 92) and Andrew Mellor (OB 90) in Hong Kong
8
9
Year 5 Gembrook Camp
Prepare for camp with outdoor ed videos
‘the most memorable game was lantern stalk –
‘the low ropes were
it was fun hiding in
challenging, exciting
the shadows’
and fun’
Preparing for a school camp can be an arduous task for boys and parents. What equipment do you need to pack? What is the best sleeping bag material - polyprop or merino? How can you make two minute noodles edible in the bush?
‘the most unforgettable part
‘the most useful thing was learning to wash dishes’
was the pizza. The
‘the flying fox was
most boring part
fun going down the
was waiting for the
rope pretending
pizza to cook’
you could fly’
All these questions are answered and more are answered on our School website in a series of short videos taking the guesswork out of preparing for camp. Filmed on an iPhone, our Head of Outdoor Education Scott Brown demonstrates what the items on the ‘equipment list’ look like and how to choose the right equipment so your son will maximise his outdoor experience. The videos are divided into two categories – Year 7 and Year 9. Already the videos have been viewed over 700 times by parents and boys who have found them invaluable for camp preparation. “It is great to get so much positive feedback from parents”, says Scott. “Parents are surprised at how simple it is to pack the right equipment to make their son’s camping experience fun.”
‘the sound of the bush was beautiful’
The overwhelming response to the videos has prompted Scott to start planning his next series.
Soon the School will capture camping in ‘real time’ so parents can share the camping experience with their son. “In the near future, boys will be able to take a camera into the field to document their outdoor education experience. This is a great benefit of using modern technology to help bridge the gap between fieldwork and home, “adds Scott. The camp videos are on our School website in the Outdoor Education section.
Year 7 videos include: • Selecting the correct bag to put the equipment in • How to select the right equipment and clothing • Choosing the right sleeping mat • Selecting the best sleeping bag Year 9 videos include: • Choosing the right sleeping mat • Selecting the best sleeping bag • Packing for King Island • Footwear for King Island • Correct clothing for hikes • Cooking scrambled eggs in the bush • Making two minute noodles tasty
We really are making a difference Baraka is a small school that could fit on a quarter of an AFL field. Their playground for 500 kids is the size of a small playground here in Australia. The day we visited Baraka was the day it bucketed rain. The ‘playground’ was like an oversized pig hut full of mud. No slides, no swings just mud.
Above Aleks and Martin Kulesza (Year 6) saw the difference we can make first hand
Eleven year old Martin Kulesza (Year 6) and his father Aleks trekked through driving rain and ankle-deep mud through the slums of Nairobi to present the Baraka School with $8000 raised by our Junior School boys – a school supported by the Junior School for about a decade. You might wonder just how far $8000 will go. To put it in perspective, on their last day in Nairobi, Martin and Aleks gave each pupil $1000ksh which is equivalent to A$12. One ecstatic boy explained with his money he could buy a mattress for boarding school, a steel trunk to keep his worldly possessions and food for his whole family! In the past BGS money has funded re-roofing the School, building dormitories and classrooms and most importantly provided food and staff salaries. Food and salaries are the current priorities. The visit was a real eye-opener for Martin. Following is an extract from an article he wrote about his experience…
We met the principal Masila who was a very lovely lady. When we walked into her office I thought it was a storage room. Her office was just bigger than a large fridge. We were invited into the Hall where I made a 45 minute speech. I talked mostly about my school but also about Australia. Closer to the end I got asked hard questions such as, ‘What inspires me in life?’ and ‘Do you always have water?’ A few of them showed us their homes. Each hut was no different to the other. The biggest one we saw was the size of two dining room tables put together and the smallest one was the size of a 4WD. I just couldn’t believe how many people fit in such a small room. It was an amazing experience and I’d love to go again. Martin, aged 11.
10
11
Pink Dinner raises $15,300 for Monash Womens’
Well done, Maggie Maggie Lynch, our School’s International Student Liaison, was awarded an OAM in this year’s Australia Day Honours List. Maggie received this honour in recognition for her support to newly-arrived migrants and refugees over the last 45 years. She is the first teacher at BGS to receive such an award.
On the first Tuesday in May, 500 ‘domestic divas’ dressed in 50s and 60s frocks and pearls, enjoyed a night of fun and frivolity at this year’s Pink Dinner.
Fondly known as “mum” to many of our international students, Maggie works tirelessly to make sure boys assimilate to school life far away from home. The BGS’s International Student Group led by an international student Prefect, provides boys from overseas with an opportunity to make friends in a social situation outside of School.
Guests enjoyed a three-course meal at the elegantly themed International of Brighton. The entertainment included the 'Domestic Diva – Fashion on the Floor'- a fun fashion parade starring guests and judged by Mistress Chrissy from the Miss Lindy’s Charm School. The winner was Trudy Agar dressed in a most elegant Audrey Hepburn-inspired gown and fur, her hair in the highest beehive. We had an overwhelming response to this year's Pink Dinner which sold out a week before the RSVP date! Thank you to our sponsors and lovely ladies for supporting this event and raising $15,300 for Monash Womens’. The staff from the maternity ward were excited and overwhelmed when we went to present the cheque on behalf of BGS.
RIGHT Presenting our cheque for $15,300 to Monash Women's
A fun night out for a good cause.
Maggie is also the facilitator of our International Parents' Support Group – a volunteer role she has enjoyed for over 15 years. This group is instrumental in helping new overseas parents adjust to the ‘Melbourne way of life’ and make friendships with other people who have relocated to Melbourne. As well as Maggie’s work with BGS, she works at the Monash Medical Centre in Clayton as Co-ordinator of Adult Multicultural Education Services. She also provides many hours of volunteer time to help refugees and new arrivals. “I help with everything from assisting with material goods to a supportive phone call. My husband, Frank, helps with official documents and forms, while my children have become skilled furniture movers!”
LEFT Maggie is pictured following the ceremony at Parliament House where she received her OAM with her husband Frank (former member of BGS Council) and sons from left Simon (OB 93), Adrian (OB 94) and former School Captain, Andrew (OB 07). Maggie’s daughter Sara was unable to be at the ceremony as she is currently living in Hong Kong with her husband Chris and little daughter.
Student Environment Committee established Michael Afanassiev (Year 12) The term ‘environment’ brings about connotations of luscious rainforests, rolling prairies and shimmering seas. However the environment is so much more than that and it’s a lot closer to home than we think. To the newly introduced Brighton Grammar Environment Committee the environment starts at our school and branches out throughout the community and into the rest of the world – much like an oak tree with its roots spreading out far and wide. As such, the environment is an interconnected living organism that relies on each ‘root ’to pull its own weight. The key to this existence is sustainability. Thus our committee has been focusing on the concept of sustainability around the School. Our first major project is the introduction of recycling bins in every classroom. However, these recycling bins are not stock-standard plastic buckets – that would be unsustainable. Rather these bins are recyclable cardboard boxes that have been collected by the committee members from various local supermarkets. Currently we are giving these bins an eco-friendly bright blue paint job and a touch up so that they become aesthetically appealing and easy to recognise. The boys themselves will be emptying out the bins weekly during form periods thereby ensuring sustainability. We hope that simple yet innovative projects such as this will help increase awareness in a field that has been neglected for far too long.
Another project that is on the horizon is the introduction of worm farms in Rosstrevor. These worm farms are essentially contained heaps of compost in which there are worms that aide in the decomposition process. The urine produced by these worms as a result of this process can be collected and, in fact, even sold. The key concept is once again sustainability. The food scraps which are thrown onto the compost heaps are being put to good use as opposed to simply being discarded. We hope that this project will introduce the younger year levels to ways in which we deal with the issues facing the environment. Although the Brighton Grammar Environment Committee is a relatively new group, we hope to expand and branch out to Rosstrevor and Junior School, both of which are integral to the wellbeing of the Brighton Grammar environment and beyond. Perhaps in future years will see prominent use of renewable energy such as solar power for heating and electrical needs. It is high time Brighton Grammar entered a new age of renewability and sustainability, and simply put this is not going to happen all on its own.
12
13
Not long ago BGS was advised that to retain and expand our presence in the Mercantile Boathouse located in Melbourne’s premium rowing precinct on the Yarra, we would need to contribute $680,000 to the redevelopment of the facility, as part of a long term lease for the next 20 years.
Whiteboard tables are invaluable for brainstorming and collaborative work.
The decision for the School Council could not have come at a more difficult time as we are already committed to the $19million Middle School project which comes with significant debt. However, the Council has chosen to support this development in light of all the benefits it will bring to our boys. At present our rowing squads are located at three different boat houses – Carrum, Albert Park and the Yarra. From September 2013 the teams will be brought together under one roof at the redeveloped Mercantile Boathouse.
Job Skills Workshop Job interviews can be pretty daunting and these days approximately one third of tertiary courses require an interview as part of their selection procedure? To prepare our boys for the world of work, especially course and job interviews, all Year 11 boys recently were involved in a Job Skills workshop. The boys workshopped topics including: • • • • • • • • •
exploring the world of job opportunities resumé writing letters of application application forms interview technique presentation tips workplace scenarios telephone techniques resources available for future help
The highlight of the day for many boys was the opportunity to undertake a one on one ‘mock’ job interview with a professional Human Resources manager or consultant. On completion the consultant gave the student valuable feedback on his presentation (appearance and verbal) and his resumé. This was an invaluable opportunity for our boys to experience a professional interview before they are required to have an ‘real’ interview for a job or tertiary course. This is just one of the many experiences provided by the Careers Department which delivers a developmentally progressive Career Development program for the boys from Year 7 to 12.
Bringing rowing under one roof
At BGS, boys are offered the opportunity to take up rowing from the end of Year 8. What is not widely known is boys who excel at this sport have been selected by international scouts to study at the prestigious campuses of Harvard, Princetown and Yale. Last season BGS boys won medals at State and National Championships rowing for both BGS and Mercantile RC.
te!
eived a letter Recently you rec portunity to op offering you the by making n wi thank Michal Ur Building S BG donation to the ting the or pp su Fund currently you If ol. ho new Middle Sc ny in ma e th n would like to joi already ve ha o wh our community t the School, chosen to suppor nation Hotline Do please call the nate online via 8591 2271 or do . ite the BGS webs
Getting ready for the new Middle School Due to the great management of our architects Clarke Hopkins Clarke and building contractors S J Higgins, the new middle school is still on schedule for completion before the end of the year. As well as building the physical structure, other important preparations have been taking place. In 2012 the Rosstrevor Hall was refurnished to create a simulated flexible learning space so boys and teachers can learn how the new workspace will operate and just what it required for effective team teaching and collaborative learning in this 21st Century learning environment. Over months of planning and review our staff have refined lesson planning, reviewed what works and what doesn’t with the new style furniture and classroom technology – all in advance of making the final purchases for the new building. The findings have been far reaching and valuable. But what is exciting, the new approach has been well received by both the staff and the students.
As well as the chance of rowing success, rowing provides boys with other benefits such as increased confidence, resilience, team building skills, improved fitness and strength and increased endurance to help with other sports. Anyone interested in making a tax deductible donation to this project is invited to contact John Phillips on 03 8591 2280.
It’s never too la
Kinder in the dark Big boys and little boys build a kite during a buddy session.
Some insights from the boys: ‘Flexible workspace gives you so many seating options. You can be by yourself, in a small group or in a big group.’ ‘The relaxed environment engages you.’ ‘You can move around and help boys who don’t know something, and that reinforces your own learning. The teachers explained: “It is an opportunity to work collaboratively with other teachers. It is fantastic what we learn from each other.” “The open space generates a team environment.” “You can pull students out of a group and work independently with them.” BGS is in the first wave of secondary schools adopting this flexible learning environment. This new learning model particularly suits middle school boys as they like space to move, engaging in technology and the ability to work and learn in teams and on their own. One cold, dark night in May the 4 Year Old ELC boys returned for their highly anticipated Twilight evening. With torches in hand, the boys enjoyed learning in the dark both indoors and outdoors. One highlight was sharing a candlelight dinner using items from our vegetable patch to make Spaghetti Bolognese and carrot cakes.
14
15 P O S T
National Sailing competition
The days of sh aring one text book between 50 bu siness studies students are ov er at the Marty rs’ Memorial Scho ol in PNG than ks to a $15,685 dona tion of books fro m Cambridge Un iversity Press. The donation was sought on beha lf of Martyrs’ by BG S business te ac her Simon Kessle r. “These texts w
ill literally trans form perience for th e students” expl ained Head of Business Stud Lachlan Hopw ies at Martyrs ood (Year 12) an ’, d Chair of the Mike Mono G Student Council Angus Whillas ute. (Year 12) colle , the learning ex
cted the texts with the assistan ce house manage r at Cambridge University Pres s.
of Ray, the Ware
The last two years have been a time of great change within the technology area at BGS. As part of the wider BGS Strategic Plan, our ICT Department has been tasked with delivering new technology tools that meet a very specific brief.
Tablet program: As part of the 1:1 program in schools, the School has provided each Senior School boy with a tablet computer, giving instant access to online resources and “apps” without being tied to a traditional computer in a classroom.
These tools should always be:
New wireless network: The School has greatly enhanced its wireless network, so boys now have wireless internet access in every classroom and every common outdoor area across the campus. It is great to see boys able to use their tablets and the internet for research and collaborative projects anywhere, anytime.
• Easy to use – teachers and boys should not need extensive training to use these tools. • Reliable – these tools should not break easily, and if they do, they should be easily replaced. • Addressing a need – we should never implement technology for technology’s sake. With the assistance of some government funding and a lot of hard work, in the last two years we have been able to provide the following new systems and tools to meet those needs:
Super-fast broadband: The School now has a 250Mb internet connection in order to cope with increased demand. To put this into perspective, this is over 10 times faster than high-speed home internet! Laptops for teachers: Each teacher has been issued with a new laptop at the start of 2013, to allow greater
mobility within the classroom and any other place they choose to teach. Senior and Middle School teachers also have convertible tablet laptops, allowing them to annotate and mark students' work with an electronic pen….maybe one day that dream of a paper-less classroom will become a reality! The Hub: At the beginning of 2013 the new teaching and learning portal for boys, parents and teachers was rolled out. This has allowed greater communication between the School and home as well as giving parents up to date access to their son’s progress and students online access to teaching and learning materials. The research into new technology continues as we look at new tools and technology that will benefit the boys, teachers and parents along the BGS learning journey. Watch this space! David Humphreys, Director of ICT
Sh@re community ed.
Congratulations to our sailors who have won a place to compete in the 2013 Harcourts Australian Schools Sailing Team Racing Championships to be held in Hobart in July. This is a great achievement given sailing has only been a sport at BGS for about four years.
Katrina Price
The BGS team is: Skippers: Thomas Trotman (Year 12), George Walch (Year 11), Jeremy Elmslie (Year 12), Patrick Chipp (Year 11) Crew: Lachlan Neville (Year 10), Mitch Dow (Year 7) and Sebastian Savage (Year12) The team will travel to Hobart with TiC of Sailing Ms Hayley Bunting in the last week of the mid-year holidays and compete against 25 Championship School Sailing Teams from around Australia.
BGS leads the way in risk management Because of Katrina’s depth of experience she was able to quickly introduce an enterprise-wide risk and compliance management program which has been a model to more than 20 other schools around Australia.
Have you visited our new, easy to navigate website about our school holiday and after school programs yet? The website has information about the many programs held at the beautiful grounds of BGS and Firbank in Brighton and Sandringham. Whether your child is into performing arts, sports or programming, or if you are looking for a high quality holiday program to keep your little ones entertained while you are at work, we pride ourselves on having something on offer to suit the interests of children of all ages. And our programs are not just for children. We also offer occasional free parenting seminars about current issues like bullying or self esteem. Did you know...? Children from over 50 schools attend sh@re each year.
www.share.vic.edu.au
The technology revolution at BGS!
C A R D
Risk Management is not about stopping the boys and staff doing things or having fun – it is about identifying potential risks and formally managing them. In many ways keeping the school community safe has been a priority as long as schools have existed, but it is only in the last five years that it has become so complex that two years ago we had to employ a dedicated Risk and Compliance Manager, Katrina Price. Katrina, who started her career as a Civil Engineer changed direction after managing a major construction project for Vic Roads where she had responsibility for Quality and Risk, is an expert in developing and monitoring business systems. On arriving Katrina faced two key challenges: to shift her thinking and use of language to suit a school environment rather than the business world; and to foster a culture of risk management. By that she explains, “I just needed to raise people’s consciousness about potential risk whether it was in the area of Human Resource practice, First Aid, Financial and governance issues or running a safe school camp.”
“When I first started at BGS there were no other schools with someone dedicated to this role; several had people responsible for OH&S but not compliance risk. Since then several other schools including Scotch, Melbourne Grammar, Ivanhoe Grammar, St. Michael’s, Overnewton and Geelong Grammar School have gone down this path and we all support each other”. Our system currently has 200 compliance tasks documented and 200 risks across the following areas: • Reputational • Financial • Operational • Health and safety related • Legal issues • Personnel based The most important benefit of this investment is the safety of the people in our community and the preservation of the School. Additionally • Our work Cover premium is on a significant downward trend • We have a lot more data from which the School can make informed decisions • Staff injury incidents are down • Culturally there is a high awareness of doing the right and safe thing
Mitigating risk with an overseas trip Boys love the experience they get from travelling abroad. Yet with any overseas travel there is the risk of illness, terrorist attacks, severe weather etc. We recognise these risks and we put a risk travel plan in place for every single trip. These plans list each perceivable risk and provide a way to mitigate that risk. The teachers in charge of such tours are specifically chosen for their expertise in the culture or language of the country, their first-aid knowledge, their health and fitness and their knowledge of the boys. The School has implemented an International and Interstate Excursion Policy to ensure that all required processes are consistently followed.
16
17
The rain in Spain…
Little boys want to grow up to be superheroes
An enthusiastic and talented cast entertained audiences in the recent joint Senior School production of Pygmalion – the delightful classic story of Eliza Doolittle the cockney speaking Covent Garden flower girl who is transformed by Professor Higgins into a poised and wellspoken lady who can pass for a Duchess. Staged at Firbank Grammar, the play was directed by Ms Michele McNamara, Head of Drama at Firbank.
We all know little boys love superheroes, and all they want to do is emulate their heroic traits.
Amelia Barrow, Director of the ELC & BGS Teacher of the Year 2012
Funnily enough, superheroes are commonly associated with men displaying integrity, truth and protective care for people within their community. I am happy to report our ELC boys have their very own heroes at BGS. We staff call them ‘the big boys’, but to our 3-5 year olds, the Senior School boys are ‘superheroes’.
In order to provide more opportunities for students, the two main characters Eliza Doolittle and Professor Henry Higgins were played by two students each, with each performing for half of the play. Congratulations to Jessica Yates and Olivia Fildes, and Lachlan McLennan (Year 12) and Alasdair Stretch (Year 12) on their impressive performances.
Above The boys asked a range of insightful questions ranging from 'What special food do you eat?' to 'When did you start playing?'
Jack Langan (Year 11) played a memorable and charismatic Colonel Pickering, Mark Higginson (Year 12) was a convincing Alfred Doolittle and Jacob Gousmett (Year 12) a wonderful Freddy Eynsford Hill.
Boys train with North Melbourne Greats
There was also great involvement of the students back stage under the expert leadership of Stage Manager Mitchell Crameri (Year 12).
Prep, Year 3 & 4 boys and Year 7 Footballers all had a chance to get some one on one preseason training with some stars from the North Melbourne Football Club. School sponsor Interactive, also a sponsor of the Kangaroos, organised the special visit for the boys. Jack Ziebell, Ryan Bastinac, Todd Goldstein and Daniel Wells shared some playing techniques, answered questions and autographed the mini footballs the boys took home.
One of the most wonderful benefits of being a one campus school is the opportunity for our youngest boys to have strong positive male role models across a multitude of areas. Whether by buddying up with Prep boys to support the transition from ELC to Junior School, weekly activities with our Year 4 & 5 buddies highlighting our peer mentoring program, or our wonderful connections with the Senior School, our boys can see the types of heroes they might become at BGS. In the ELC our foundation for teaching is “learning through doing” and this year we have explored several opportunities across New Street in the Senior School. Such trips seem like mini excursions for the 3 year olds who can take up to 20 minutes to just walk over! Already this year in the Senior School we have • experienced a science show with experiments by the boys • discovered reptiles and creepy crawlies in the senior biology lab
• shared spooky stories in the library • created our own self portrait with VCE art students • visited St Andrew's Church and graveyard • cheered the BGS boys playing rival schools in sport • listened to VCE students’ solo recitals before assessment • enjoyed Mr Urwin share with the ELC4 boys his passion for Chinese culture • and explored the “big boys” campus the atrium and tuckshop were definite highlights! We appreciate the support of the Senior School staff ensuring our boys feel welcomed. We look forward to many more experiences throughout the year – especially our yarn bombing activity between the Year 12 and ELC boys signifying” the beginning and the end of school life” at BGS. “Young children will become who you are, so be who you want them to be” – we are so blessed to have so many superheroes at BGS.
Training shirts for all footballers At the commencement of this year’s football season, all footballers from Year 7 to 12 were supplied with a complimentary BGS football training shirt. The shirts have proved a big hit not only during training sessions but also during the warm-up sessions before the matches and when supporting the 1st XVIII team. The shirts were funded by the School’s football parent and supporters group, the Dalziel Club, and it is intended all footballers will receive a new training shirt every two years as they grow. “The training shirts are another example of how the Dalziel Club can continue to help grow and develop the football program. The Committee believes the shirts will further instil in every boy who wears one, a sense of belonging and pride in being a BGS footballer”, said Richard Simon, Convenor of the Dalziel Club.
18
19
Our home-grown BGS Superheroes
The first VIII with their Meliora Club Medals.
The Schoolboy coxed four, Andrew, Alexander, Tom, Jack and Edward won silver.
Year 10 boys Campbell Clapp, Michael Riordan and Jandre Olivier have been nominated to be our 2013 Monash University Scholars. BGS was invited to nominate three top Year 10 scholars to be involved in this new program with Monash University. Year 12 boys George Longbottom and Lachlan Hopwood were nominated by BGS to be involved in The University of Melbourne’s Young Scholars Program. The program aims to develop young academic talent by engaging nominees through the various programs The University of Melbourne stages. Year 12 boys Max Hayes, Josh Kelly, Christian Salem and Elliot Le Grice have all been selected into the Victorian Metro Under 18 Football team. To have four BGS boys in the team is unprecedented and we wish the boys well for their upcoming matches against the other states.
Andrew Alesi (Year 12) won the Joan Arnold Memorial Prize in the Open category of the 32nd National Liederfest of the Lieder Society of Victoria. Andrew has also won a scholarship from Opera Scholars Australia. He will receive professional tuition, master-classes and perform to large audiences at concerts run by Australian Music Events, such as “Opera in the Alps”, “Opera in the Market”, “Opera at The Lock”. Bravo, Andrew! Our gun cyclist James Tickner (Year 10) won a gold medal in the Under 17 Victorian State Hill Climbing Championships recently. This augurs well for James’ mid year trip to Europe to ride for the Junior Vacansoliel racing team in a series of competitions in June and early July. Well done James!
The 2013 National Rowing titles held in Penrith NSW was a successful regatta for some BGS boys who teamed up with the Mercantile Rowing Club. Andrew Maglio and Tom Fisher (both Year 12), and Alexander Douglas, Jack Wheeler and Edward Tait (all Year 11) won gold, becoming National champions, as members of the Under 19 coxed eight. Andrew, Tom, Alexander and Jack also won bronze in the Under 19 coxed four, and Andrew won another bronze in the Under 19 coxless pair. Andrew Maglio (Year 12) has been selected in the Australian Junior Rowing Team. Andrew will compete at the World Junior Championships to be held in Lithuania in August as part of the Coxless Four.
Australian Champion Andrew McGrath and Australian Rowing Representative Andrew Maglio
Did you know one in four boys in the Senior School is involved in debating?
Year 5 Maths Team
Andrew McGrath (Year 9) is a national athletics champion in taking out the U15 Pentathlon at the recent National Athletic Titles in Canberra. He also won the U16 Men’s 200m Hurdles with a PB at the Australian Junior Championships. Tristan Scheirs (Year 7) scored Bronze in the U13 Triple Jump at the Australian Junior Championships. Charlie White (Year 4) was invited to compete in the inaugural Australian Schools and University Karate Championships in Sydney in April representing BGS. The BGS Year 5 mathematics team came second out of 32 teams from 17 schools at the Year 5 Maths Games Day at Penleigh and Essendon Grammar in June. The boys pictured above with their medals are Liam Konidaris, Jaikob Akinci, James McFadden and Christopher Lam.
As most people from the BGS community are aware, Connor Dawes (OB 12) died earlier in the year after a 16 month battle with a brain tumour. In celebration of Connor’s life and to launch the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation, (raising money for brain tumour research and patient support) an event “Connor’s Run” has been organised.
Boys in representative teams
In an effort to get fit for rowing, in the September holidays of 2011, just weeks before his diagnosis, Connor undertook a training run from his home to the Mercantile Boatshed – some 18kms. Connor's Run will be similar to what Connor ran that afternoon and is exactly 18.8 kilometres, the age Connor was when he passed. Everyone is invited to join in running or walking the full route, or the half route from St Kilda - or just joining the party at the end. To register your interest in participating or volunteering google Connor’s Run or contact Liz Dawes on 0419 311 506 or liz@rcdfund.org .
A number of Middle School footballers have once again been selected for representative duties with the South Metro Junior Football League throughout the course of Term 2.
What's cookin'? Some of our Year 1 boys were delighted to be invited to have a go at baking bread under the watchful eye of master baker Alessandro Urilliat the new Mill and Bakery at Central Pier owned by BGS Parent and School Sponsor Hatem Saleh. The opportunity for the visit came about because the Channel 9 Postcards show was filming a story about the bakery, the latest hospitality venture of the Atlantic Group (v) and the only fresh bakery in the Docklands precinct.
In the Under 13 age group, six aspiring footballers were selected across two divisions. Joel Crocker, Harry Reynolds and David Seager represented the U13 Division 1 side, while Ben Branson, Hamish Dick and Nick Phillips were selected in Division 2. Both teams remained undefeated throughout the carnival against the strong Yarra and Northern Junior Football Leagues which makes all six boys members of championship winning sides! In the Under 14 age group, four Year 8 boys were selected. Seb Williams and Tom Yorgey represented the league in the Division 1 side, while Finn Campigli and Nathan Murphy have been instrumental in the Division 2 side.
20
OBGS COMMUNITY FOR LIFE
Staff News ELC teacher Mel Perks and Jay Salter are the proud parents of a beautiful baby girl Ella Julie born on 26 April.
Mel Perks and baby Ella
In addition Amy Greaves (School Counsellor) and her husband Alex Sylvan (Head of Hancock and English teacher) welcomed their second son in 15 months, gorgeous Harry, and Katrina and Dick Bartlett (Head of Rowing) welcomed darling Annabel. BGS double bass teacher Nick Tsiavos had a solo concert at the Melbourne Recital Centre in May. He also has been awarded an international travel grant from the Australia Council for the Arts to perform in eight concerts in Greece and Estonia in July.
Nicholas Tsiavos
Congratulations to Jason Bain and his finance Caroline who married on 22 June in Melbourne. Jason is the BGS BELOW link with PNG and he has Jason and escorted many groups of staff Caroline Bain's and boys there over the last Melbourne and five years. As a consequence PNG weddings Jason has placed in the unique position where he has been formally accepted as a ‘family member’ in the beautiful community up there. This special status resulted in the privilege of having a second full blown village wedding ceremony in the week following their Melbourne wedding.
Court of Companions In the early 1980s, Headmaster Robert Rofe and Chairman of Council, the late Robert Sanderson established the ‘Court of Companions’ to acknowledge and honor BGS Staff members who had given 15 or more years of service. Initially confined to the teaching staff, the Court of Companions now embraces all BGS staff. We have 93 living members of our Court of Companions including a number of current staff. The Court of Companions Annual Dinner will be held later in the year when we will welcome three new members - Dwi Ariantono from maintenance, ESL teacher Cat Rossiter and double bass teacher, Nicholas Tsiavos.
News of retired members Barrie Johns
In 2011, I was asked by the BGS Learning Strategies Department to act as a teaching aide for two days per week for a BGS boy. It was wonderful to be back in the classroom. I’ve continued to work part-time and now I help as an assistant for some Senior School maths and science classes.
Where am I now? Not far from where I have been ever since coming to Brighton and BGS in 1969, that is I’ve relocated from Willansby Ave to Asling St. I now live at ‘The Brighton on Bay’ Retirement Village, a move of about 250m.
The technical changes in the education which have occurred during my absence from teaching are staggering. Where are the Kaye & Layby Four figure log books?
I’ve not regretted this move for a moment, freeing me from the burden of houseownership and placing me in a delightful community of congenial co-residents, yet retaining an independent life-style within the area that has been home turf for the better part of my life. The greatest bonus is my daughter, Jessica, has acquired the old family home and is enjoying its convenient location to BGS, where son Nate is in Year 7, and Firbank, where daughter Elena is a Year 9 student. Jessica has just qualified as a psychotherapist.
Sue Rocco For fifteen years from 1986 to 2001 I taught English, History and RE at BGS. Happy years: at Rosstrevor initially and then at the Senior School. While there was no drama in the curriculum, for many years we put on musicals and dramas including a couple of Shakespeare productions and a memorable Brecht.
I started teaching in 1962, with neither teaching nor academic qualifications. In 1963, at Lilydale High School, I was teaching a Year 10 science class, taking prac work with 45 students and no laboratory assistant. In 1964 I gained a scholarship to Mercer House to complete a one year Junior Secondary teaching certificate.
Now, twelve years into retirement, I am still busy. Apart from my parish activities, I am involved with the amateur photography community at club and state level. Recently I helped organise a convention which took place at the Senior School.
1985 saw me join BGS. It was a Christian, boys’ school and a single campus school. This last point was most important. Retirement came in 2002. I taught for 40 years and all but one had been enjoyable. One year there was a cantankerous Year 10 Maths class!
I have travelled and had my ‘trip of a lifetime’ in 2007 when I had several weeks in Rome, Florence and Venice indulging in a lifetime interest in art. This year I will visit Scotland to catch up with Jane Zachariah whose father Harry is part of the history and mythology of BGS!
Prior to retiring I became a tour guide at the MCG. This is a voluntary job which gives me immense pleasure. I have guided Junior School groups for many years. Just to watch the facial expressions of the young guests as they see for the first time the enormity of the “G” is priceless.
Barbara Cramer
My son, John, and partner Allison are now living in New Norfolk, Tasmania, both working in the education and integration of intellectually handicapped teenagers. They love their 200 year old house, ‘The Old King’s Inn’, located in the beautiful Derwent Valley. As for me, time flies in the pursuit of many interests: the intensive study of French, as well as a fascinating course in ‘Theatre Through the Ages’, playing chess and mah jong, keeping fit, managing contact with friends and family on three continents and travel. In August/ September I’ll realize a long-cherished dream to spend a solid month in Paris.
I loved the School and teaching there; I have lasting memories of great colleagues, students and parents.
• Barbara was secretary to Headmaster Robert Rofe.
TOP Barrie Johns MIDDLE Sue Rocco BOTTOM Barbara Cramer
Near and Far Steve Kent (1990) is currently Head Golf Professional at Settlers Run Golf and Country Club at Cranbourne South. Steve has been with Settlers run for the past six years. Edward McCowan (2000) finished a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) degree at Monash University in 2004. He volunteered for and went to Tonga in 2005 as an Australian Youth Ambassador for Development, working as the Australian Football Development Officer for the Tongan Australian Football Association (TAFA).
He has achieved a great deal in this role as he will be coaching the Tongan National Team playing Samoa later in the year. Chris Dawes (2006) announced his engagement recently to Paige Rawlinson (Firbank 2006). Chris is currently playing for the beleaguered Melbourne Football Club following a stellar stint with Collingwood which saw him play in three AFL Grand Finals, one of which they won in 2010. Paige’s two younger brothers are BGS Old Boys – Brock (2008) and Kieran (2011) Jensen Overend (2002) has been appearing in the Melbourne production of “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” as his stage career goes from strength to strength! Johnathon Davey (2000) completed a Bachelor of Science double degree, majoring in Marine Biology and Aquaculture as well as completing a Masters in Applied Science / Fisheries Science in Tasmania. He is now working for the Australian Government in Canberra managing Australia's international fisheries engagement.
Drake WorkWise specialises in the delivery of Human Capital Solutions for Corporations and Government. Guy’s specific area of responsibility is Organisational Psychology, Employee Assistance Programs and Trauma Management Response. Dr Sam Walsh AO (1967) (Pictured above) BGS Hall of Fame inductee, was appointed CEO of Rio Tinto Limited in January and now leads the world’s fourth largest listed mining company.
Sam had headed up the iron ore division of Rio Tinto since 2004 during which time he oversaw successful mining operations and expansions in Pilbara, Western Australia. During his tenure, the lucrative Pilbara iron ore business grew to account for more than 80% of Rio Tinto’s net earnings. Sam is now based in the London Head Office of Rio Tinto. David Kay (1983) is the owner of Design Enterprises Limited, a Hong Kong based innovation and entrepreneurial company. Design Enterprises Ltd. project manages concepts to completion by taking ideas to market.
They recently invented, designed, developed and patented the S2B smart shower that is a new luxurious walk-in shower that simply and effectively converts into a bath when needed. This is an innovation perfectly suited for units, high-rise, hotels, aged-care and residential premises where space and usability are a major issue. Guy Robbins (1976) took up a role in November 2012 as Manager Client Relationships (Southern Australia) with Drake WorkWise, a business division of Drake International Australia.
David Matthews (1983) is married with two sons and lives on the Victorian surf coast. He is teaching sailing in Geelong, surfing lots and describes himself as a passionate long suffering Richmond supporter. Joseph Buccheri (1988) is currently working as a Melbourne-based Domestic and International commercial lawyer. Philip Allchin (1939) is currently living in Duncraig (a suburb of Perth WA). Patch Clapp (2012) is working at a US summer camp called Camp Augusta. He will travel around the US and Canada and then fly to Beijing to board the Trans Siberian Railway. Daniel Mulcahy (2005) left school in Year 11 for a carpentry apprenticeship which he loved. Later on he undertook a Bachelor of Property and Sustainable Development. Chris Mulcahy (2001) undertook an Arts Degree at the University of Melbourne and then worked for APN Outdoor (billboards.) He later completed an MBA at Bond University and started working for Google in Sydney in mid 2012. Simon Bolles (1978) is currently a member of the University of Melbourne Faculty Business and Economics Alumni Council networking regarding Non Executive Director roles in 2013. Zhi Low (2012) left BGS and moved from Melbourne in 2000 to live in Los Angeles. He graduated from La Canada High School in May this year and in August will be going to
Cornell University in Upstate New York to study Engineering (like his dad!). His younger brother Zhiyou (who was in a pram in the BGS days) is currently in Year 9 at La Canada High School. The boys and their mother Jenny recently re-visited BGS with cousin Stephen Lam (2009) while on a trip to Melbourne. Stephen is currently in fourth year of Commerce Law at ANU in Canberra. Chris Biggin (1996) Mt Buller was the stunning setting on Saturday 23rd March for the marriage of Chris to Allison Knight.
The Bridal Party consisted of Maid of Honour Bree Rankin from Canberra, Bridesmaid Kate Nankervis from Bendigo, Best Man and Groomsman, Tim Cross and James Bellerby respectively both also from the Class of 1996. The Ceremony at Mt Buller Chapel and the Reception for 100 guests was held at Mt Buller Chalet’s Black Cockatoo Restaurant. After their Honeymoon in Hawaii the couple returned to their home in Bentleigh.
BELOW L to R James Bellerby, Bree Rankin, Chris and Allison Biggin, Tim Cross and Kate Nankervis.
21
22
OBGS COMMUNITY FOR LIFE
OBGS COMMUNITY FOR LIFE
From tennis ace to real estate magnate
The Ong Brothers receive Top Honours at 2013 Australian International Beer Awards
The competition is held annually and administered by the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria. This year it attracted a record number of 1490 entries from 277 breweries and 35 countries. Beers were critiqued by judges from Australia, Norway, Belgium, United States, United Kingdom, Japan and NZ. Andrew and his brother David (OB 90) opened the doors to their Moorabbin based brewery, 2 Brothers Brewery, in 2007. They won trophies for Best Victorian Beer in 2009 and 2010. The brewery uses raw ingredients from
The Annual General Meeting of the
and take advantage of the
Old Brighton Grammarians’ Society
doors that open up for you
Inc. was held at BGS on Monday 6
– they do for a reason and can help take you on an incredible
The awards night which was held recently is the international brewing community’s night of nights with over 700 national and international brewers in attendance. At the conclusion of an intensive week of judging, the panel awarded 2 Brothers Brewery with the coveted trophy for Champion Small Australian Brewery. The brewery also beat Weihnstephan Brewery, Germany (the world’s oldest brewery, operating since 1040AD) to win the trophy for Best European Style Lager for their lager beer called Taxi. “This is the highest accolade achievable for breweries of our size and scale” said owner and brewer Andrew Ong (OB 88). “When we started brewing in 2007, we never dreamt of receiving this level of recognition.” Other trophy winners included Coopers Brewery (SA) and Boston Beer Company (USA).
“Follow your dreams –
Trevor Nette (OB 80) was born to be a tennis pro, which is hardly surprising with both parents being international tennis champs. As soon as he could walk he held a racquet. Now he is living in Florida with his wife and two daughters, where he works in real estate. Trevor reflects on his time at BGS and what took him on his journey from tennis in Australia to property in America.
Australia and around the world to hand craft a range of beer styles from light to dark. They produce roughly 2000 litres of beer each week which is sold on tap at independent Melbourne bars and pubs. The brothers’ first beer was “Taxi” which was initially designed as a stepping stone to satisfy locals who were used to drinking Fosters products. Taxi has found favour with many beer lovers and is the “house pour” at several venues around Melbourne. You can visit 2 Brothers Brewery any Thursday or Friday night. Their Brewery and Beer hall is located at 4 Joyner St, Moorabbin where you can enjoy live music, gourmet pizzas, a range of beverages and fresh world class beer straight from the tank!
ABOVE David and Andrew Ong receive their award
Throughout his school years Trevor played tennis, encouraged by his parents and friends. He says, “One of my closest friends growing up was Andrew Fraser whose father was Australia's Davis Cup Captain, so we were able to be around all the great tennis players growing up. Tennis can be a very individual sport so Trevor also played Aussie rules football – a great team sport which gave him a good balance. After leaving BGS, Trevor was based in London playing and training for professional tennis and travelling throughout Europe. He studied French at the French Elysee in London, “At school I didn’t realise how important it was to learn another language. Now I know being able to speak more than one language means that you can write your own ticket on what direction you want to go in the world.” After London, Trevor travelled to many countries playing and coaching tennis – England, Japan, Germany and the USA.
journey.”
May. President for the past two years, Peter Scott (OB 76) gave his report highlighting the many aspects of his Presidency which he had enjoyed. As is the usual custom, after two years as President he did not stand for reelection and was succeeded by well known Old Boy and BGS Hall of Fame inductee, Roger Wilson OAM (OB 61).
And somewhere in the middle of this, he went to college in the USA on a tennis scholarship. Tennis has opened up lots of opportunities for Trevor. He has visited the countries across the globe he once studied in history and geography. Tennis also helped him transition into business giving him confidence and the understanding different points of view can come together. His love for tennis has now turned to real estate. Today Trevor and his family live on the beach on Sanibel, an island in southwest Florida. In his spare time he enjoys golf, horse riding, water skiing and trying to keep up with his 10 and 7 year old girls. Trevor’s advice to current BGS boys is, “It might be hard to understand now – but you never want to look back and say ‘what if’ or ‘I wish I had done that’. Work and play hard and balance study with the your love of sport as there will be a time when your body is telling you to slow down and you will need your education to fall back on - without it you will be missing balance.”
A word from the President Having left BGS over 50 years ago, I feel privileged to have been elected President of the Old Brighton Grammarians’ Society and also to serve on the Council of the School. I want to see much more engagement of Old Boys in the life of our great School and our OBGS Committee will be working to this end. One of my former school mates, John Gray (1964) who passed away in 2010, made a bequest to the School resulting in a $1.4m endowment thus providing for up to three Scholarships available for boys entering Year 9 from outside BGS. This is the largest bequest the School has ever received. I hope this will serve as an inspiration for greater philanthropy from Old Boys to our great School in recognition of the success Old Boys have achieved resulting from the grounding they received for life from BGS. The Sequamur Society, managed by OBGS Honorary Life Member and legend of BGS, Peter Toms, is the vehicle by which we can all put valuable funds back into BGS for the future success of boys at BGS. Another initiative I would like to bring to the OBGS is closer ties between our various sporting and affiliated clubs, with OBGS Committee members having a presence with each club. Hopefully, we can introduce new clubs and interest groups to the OBGS.
Mentoring is something I am involved with in my semi-retirement with the Victorian Small Business Mentoring Service (SBMS). I would like to see a facility for mentoring Old Boys to help with advice, post university and beyond with the involvement of volunteer Old Boys to pass on their knowledge and experience in a large range of fields. I personally, have found mentoring small business very rewarding and if any Old Boy wishes to assist with mentoring, please contact me on mobile phone 0418 395 946 or by email: rbwservices@bigpond.com. As Chair of the Selection Committee for the BGS Hall of Fame, we will shortly be commencing the selection process for our third induction of Old Boys into the Hall of Fame in mid 2014. Details and applications for nomination will be available from the OBGS Office at the School. The existing inductees of the BGS Hall of Fame will be honoured by individual permanent recognition boards to be unveiled at the School later this year. I implore all Old Boys to support their year Reunions when they come up. It’s a great way to re-connect with old school mates and engage with our great School, BGS.
Roger Wilson OAM President, OBGS
ABOVE L to R Bradley (1998), Ian (1966), Len (1958), Sam (2007) and John (2005).
Making their Mark(s) on OBGS Cricket and BGS. The Marks family certainly have a rich BGS history which has translated into great support and involvement in the Old Brighton Grammarians’ Cricket Club. A game against Trinity in February this year saw the Marks boys supply almost half the team. All the Marks boys were great contributors to BGS cricket whilst attending the School and have continued their love of the game and their great family connection with Brighton Grammar School. Christine Marks (wife of Len and mother of Sam and John) is a Year 5 classroom teacher in the Junior School, a position she has held with distinction for the past 13 years. Ian also has a Grandson at BGS, Lachlan Zissis who is currently in Grade 4.
23
24
OBGS COMMUNITY FOR LIFE
OBGS COMMUNITY FOR LIFE
Two of the “3 R’s” led to a great career Doing what you love is always the best job to have and Sam Cooney (2003) has always loved reading and writing; growing up he would just consume books at a great rate. This has led to his position as editor and publisher of The Lifted Brow, a bimonthly literary/arts/culture publication which is described on their website (www. theliftedbrow.com) as “a magazine from Australia and the world”. Sam is a classic example of a BGS boy who did well in his VCE and entered a university course based on the score he achieved. On leaving BGS he commenced a Marketing and Arts double degree at Monash University, finding the creative aspects of the course more to his liking. Halfway through the degree he made the decision that the course was not for him, and instead went travelling overseas with classmates Jono Edge and Giles Fielke. Three months travelling Europe, plus a stint in London, helped put school and life in general into perspective. On his return to Melbourne, Sam enrolled in a Creative Writing course at Deakin University. He had always enjoyed writing and credits his former English teachers Monty Stephens and Olivia Connelly with inspiring him to follow and develop his natural talent and love of writing. After graduating from Deakin, came the challenge of making a living from writing as during his studies, his desire was to write on a wide range of topics. He found it somewhat difficult to get a start in the industry purely as a writer, but soon managed to secure an editorial committee position with Voiceworks magazine which was a stepping stone and gave him great knowledge and experience.
“Read as much as you can, create good work habits and study literature. When applying for positions with magazines or literary
Old Boys honoured in Australia Day Honours list
LEFT David Forsyth AM
Tristan Reincke (2003) is a Flight Lieutenant, flying the F/A18F Super Hornet with the Royal Australian Air Force out of RAAF base Amberley Queensland (near Ipswich).
journals, always know in detail the publication’s content, its audience, and its position in the industry.” – Sam Cooney
Frank Roberts (1943) was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and David Forsyth (1969) was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for their contributions to Australian Society as follows:
Soon after, he began writing for The Lifted Brow and as time went on he fell into the task of editing the magazine, a task which he says he loves. The Lifted Brow is an arts and cultural magazine with a print circulation of around 2000 per issue and a readership demographic in the 18 to 35 age group. A third of the readership is offshore with a very dedicated online following in North America. Online readership is a most important aspect of the great success of the magazine and Sam and his team spend much time developing and improving apps that enhance the reader’s appreciation of the online written word. Sam says that writing and editing for digital media is an art in itself with many differences and skill requirements compared to writing for print. He will be teaching the subject Writing for Digital Media at Melbourne University in the second semester this year.
ABOVE Sam Cooney, Editor and Publisher of The Lifted Brow
Frank Roberts OAM For service to community health, particularly through patient support services. Convenor, Alfred Hospital, Neurosurgery Patient Support Service, 1994-2010; Founder, 1994. Chairman, Alfred Hospital Foundation Annual Fathers Day Appeal Committee, 2004-2006. Director, Peninsula Home Hospice Service Board, Victoria; Member, since 2008. Member, Royal District Nursing Services Foundation Board, 1997-2004. Founder, Recycling Cork Scheme, Girl Guides Australia, 1989-2010. Immediate Past President, Balcombe Probus Club; President, 2011; VicePresident. Treasurer, Mount Martha Community Association, 2008-2011.
Top Gun Fighter Pilot
David Forsyth AM For significant service to the aviation industry through a range of administrative and leadership roles. Chairman, Airservices Australia, 20082012; Board Member, 2005-2008; Chairman, Safety and Environment Committee, 2005-2008; member, Environment Committee, Remuneration and Human Resources Committee, Audit and Risk Committee, 2008-2012. Board Member, South Eastern Section, Royal Flying Doctors Service of Australia, 2002-2011. Current Chairman, Safeskies Australia. Executive General Manager, Aircraft Operations, Qantas, 1998-2003; General Manager, Regional Airlines, 1997-1998; various other roles, 1970-1997. Chairman of Industry Advisory Panel, School of Aviation, University of New South Wales, since 2003; current Senior Visiting Fellow. Board Member, Aviation Australia, 20042007; skills and trains domestic and international students for employment in the aviation industry worldwide. Fellow, Royal Aeronautical Society (Australian Division), 2000; President, 2008-2011.
Tristan joined the Air Force in 2005 as an Officer Cadet in the Defence Force Academy based in Canberra emerging with a Bachelor of Technology in Aeronautical Engineering. After four and a half years of basic pilot training then on to learning aerobatics, basic navigational skills, formation flying and low level flying in Perth, he was selected for the elite fighter pilot stream, and moved on to the Hawk to learn how to fight in an aircraft. This was the first real experience of high gravitational forces (up to 8G) and high speeds of greater than 900 km/h in preparation to move onto an operational aircraft which was for him, one of the worlds most sophisticated fighter aircraft the F/A18F Super Hornet. The F/A18F Super Hornet is the latest weapon in Australia’s defence arsenal and is designed to protect Australia’s national interests. The Super Hornet (or Rhino) carries more fuel, more weapons and has a re-designed avionics suite. Some of the weapons carried are un-guided bombs (weighing up to 1000kg), precision guided weapons (laser and GPS guided bombs), missiles and a gun capable of firing 6000 rounds per minute. The Rhino will reach speeds of over 1.8 times the speed of sound and a ground speed in excess of 1200 km/h.
Some common questions Tristan is asked about flying the Rhino are: Do you get airsick; what’s it like to go super-sonic; how much fuel do you burn; and what is an average training flight? • Being airsick I relate to being a passenger in a car. People generally get car sick when they aren’t driving since the body can’t tell what is about to occur. • As for going supersonic, you don’t tend to notice it until you look at the Mach number (speed of sound indicator). It’s loud in the cockpit and occasionally you get shock waves off of the wing and fuselage that look amazing. • A typical training flight depends on the phase of work we are in. For “dog fighting”, we will go out to our training airspace and conduct up to 6 fights from varying starting parameters until someone is determined to have killed the other. In these missions, we use full after burner and while doing so we can burn above 30,000 pounds per hour of fuel per engine. “Dog fighting” (combat practice) is possibly of the most challenging aspect of a fighter pilot’s work. Trying to not hit another aircraft, the ground and then not spin out of control while employing weapons and kill the other aircraft is hugely complex, not to mention fun. The Super Hornet can fight slower and turn tighter than most other aircraft. The ‘G’ forces experienced by aircrew during dog fighting can push people close to black out. This happens as a result of high ‘G’ forces which results in the body’s blood tending to pool in ones feet and starving the brain where it is required. Above 4-5G
most people will pass out due to lack of blood to the brain. The pilots however train in the air and also in the centrifuge, to not lose consciousness as loss of consciousness at those speeds can have disastrous consequences. In high G situations heart rates can reach in excess of 250 beats per minute, and this can last for minutes on end depending on the fight. Tristan says, “Being a fighter pilot is hugely rewarding but there is also a huge amount of work. What you see at air shows such as Avalon is the end product of lots of hard work over a long period of time. It took 4 ½ years to train up to the level of being a Super Hornet pilot, which involved a great deal of study. However, there is nowhere else that I would ever experience this epic adventure”.
Thanks to our OBGS sponsor Michael’s Appliance Centre Take a closer look at Michael’s Specialist suppliers of kitchen and laundry appliances. Ask for Old Boys Simon Williams or Michael Wood. Phone 9592 6400 or visit our showroom 24 hours a day at michaelsappliancecentre.com.au
25
26
OBGS COMMUNITY FOR LIFE
Reunions
Meliora Club Dinner The 44th Annual Meliora Club Dinner was held, as always, on the Tuesday immediately preceding the Head of the River, Senior Regatta. The 2013 dinner held special significance being the 30th Anniversary of our first winning of the Fairbairn Cup. All living members of the 1983 victorious crew came to the dinner including Brett Barton who made the trip from Lancaster, Massachusetts USA especially for the dinner and Regatta on the Saturday.
OBGS COMMUNITY FOR LIFE 30 Year Reunion – Class of 1983
25 Year Reunion – Class of 1987
5 Year Reunion – Class of 2008 LEFT Midori Cranston caught up with “Her Crowther Boys” L to R Ryan Burge, Alex Carter, Dennis McCallum, Josh Donnellan, Midori Cranston, James Hay, Brad Price, Michael Hodgson, Cameron Rosengarten, Zach Wilson, Tim Biggin and Jordan Drysdale.
RIGHT Peter Toms, Andrew Bassat, Gary Flaherty and Cameron Yates. FAR RIGHT L to R Cameron Yates, David Kay, Chris Keighley, Gary Flaherty and Greg Horsey Below All the attendees
Adelaide Reunion
Top The 1983 Victorious First VIII L to R standing Jason Veale (4), Mark Mitchell (cox), Howard Bradfield (3), Tony Bowyer (5). Seated Richard Hall (bow), Paul McGann (Coach), Ian Shippen (7), Andrew Cooper (Stroke) and Bret Barton (6). Absent - Robert Kovacevic (2) passed away in 1998 LEFT On the left the late Prof. Bill Hare, a great supporter of BGS rowing, enjoying the company of Nobby Forster (1960 centre) and Peter Gadsden. Bill passed away on 31 May this year. Below Yjr First VIII L to R Richard Hall, Alisdair Gnauck (bow), Matt Johnson (4), Paul McGann, Ed Tait (3), Jack Wheeler (5), Howard Bradfield, Will Simon (2), Jason Veale, Alex Douglas (stroke), Andrew Cooper, George Longbottom (7), Brett Barton, Andrew Maglio (6), Tom Fisher (cox), Mark Mitchell and Tony Bowyer
The first ever Combined APS Adelaide Reunion was held at the magnificent St Peter’s College in Adelaide on 21 June with representatives of Old Brighton Grammarians’, Carey, Caulfield, St Kevin’s, Wesley and Xavier.
Class of 2012 First Reunion right L to R Jeremy Walker, James Nicolazzo, Billy Gibney, Pat Vella, Tom Abbott, John Williams, Hank Kim, Miles Ager, Campbell Beveridge, Jack Knight BeloW All the attendees
Left L to R Paul Strain, Marek Wolski, Nick Cann, and Rory Grant
60 Years On – Reunion of the Pendennis Chapter
ABOVE L to R Zach Wilson, Tom Priestley, Tom Mariani, Cameron Rosengarten and Mark Sainsbery
Many thanks to Mr Simon Murray, Headmaster of St Peter’s for hosting the function in Adelaide. BELOW L to R Dan Anderson (1970), Jan Anderson, Peter Toms, Andrew Biggin (1969) OBGS Alumni Manager, Will Zacharin (1976), Ian Charlton (1961), Andy Becker (1959) and Doug Rowston (1959)
27
OBGS COMMUNITY FOR LIFE
OBGS COMMUNITY FOR LIFE P O S T
a leader in the Australian car industry
Leigh Hendra (1999) chalks up 200 games for the “Tonners” Leigh Hendra’s team mates chair him off the ground after playing his 200th game for the Old Brighton Grammarians’ Football Club. The team produced four quarters of their best football in Round 9, and joined Old Trinity at the top of the Premier B table, after downing the ladder leaders by 27 points in a high class match at a muddy South Road.
His career path started after graduating from Brighton Grammar in 1968, when he attended Melbourne University where he obtained a Degree of Bachelor of Commerce in 1972, majoring in Economics and Company Law. Richard then joined the Ford Motor Company Graduate Program and during the next ten years with Ford held several managerial positions in Sales and Marketing. Ford gave him the opportunity to purchase Jarvis Ford in Adelaide. It was 1984, he sold the family home in Balwyn and moved his family to South Australia. When he arrived in Adelaide he declared to his new staff that Jarvis (then the smallest Ford dealership in Adelaide) would become the state’s largest. His staff all laughed at him, however not only did he achieve this but within 10 years Jarvis Ford was in the top five dealerships in Australia. Nearly 30 years later, the Jarvis Group employs over 300 staff, sells in excess of 7,000 new and used vehicles each year and services over 38,000 vehicles between his Ford, Toyota and Subaru dealerships. The key to the success has been a dedication to customer satisfaction and the adaptability to change. Richard was asked to join the board of carsales.com.au at its first inception. Today the company is in the top 100 listed on the ASX. He holds the position of Deputy Chairman of the board.
OBG Soccer Club
He has always worked on the philosophy that it’s one thing to grow and expand a business, but it’s also important to support charities and worthy causes. Over nearly 30 years, Richard has donated generously, most prominently to “Variety - The Children’s Charity”, “Animals Asia” whose goal it is to save the Moon Bears and other mistreated animals in Asia and “The Green Gecko Project” – helping homeless children in Cambodia. Richard believes his days at Brighton Grammar have been very influential in how he has led his life on both a business and personal level. He still maintains a close friendship with his old classmates, Ron Curtain, Drew Owens and Derek Butler, all from the Class of 1968.
The Old Brighton Grammarians Soccer Club have commenced season 2013 newly promoted into the FFV State League 4 Southern Division after a promotion-clinching 2012 season.
Home games at the Brighton Beach Oval are always most enjoyable with a fine lunch put on by the Club prior to the game. For booking information or in fact any details on the OBGFC, go to their website: www.obgfc.com.au.
OBGSC is seeking expressions of interest from potential Sponsor Partners and new players for the current season and next. Please get in touch with Marshal Sayer, OBGSC Treasurer and 2001 BGS Old Boy, via marshal.sayer@gmail.com or 0404 460 610 if you would like to discuss becoming a new club member or if you would like to find out more about OBGSC Sponsorship packages.
Living every man’s boyhood dream Peter De Garis (1973) as well as being a master sculptor and expert on fine art, has lived the boyhood dream of becoming a “Steam locomotive driver”. During Peter’s time as a student at BGS, his classmate David Wymond, whose father was president of the Puffing Billy Association, asked Peter if he’d like to come along with he and his dad to the Puffing Billy museum at Menzies Creek. It was there that Peter’s love affair with steam locomotives began.
More than 20 BGS Old Boys are plying their trade at OBGSC this year across our three teams. There is never a dull moment at Dendy Park, whether it’s our busy social calendar or the outrageous skills on the park electrifying our Saturday afternoons.
In 1987, Peter re-joined the Puffing Billy Preservation Society which supports this iconic narrow gauge historical steam train which runs through the Dandenong Ranges.
Above Matt Cameron (2006) shooting for goal
The OBGS Rugby Club was re-launched recently with a small but enthusiastic group headed by Russ Bate OAM (1965) and John Wilson (1976).
Driving a locomotive such as Puffing Billy requires a huge range of skills including train handling and a detailed knowledge of the Westinghouse airbraking system.The final step was a full day of examinations both practical and theoretical, which after emerged a fully-fledged train driver in 2011.
Media Gang.
It is inspiring to see the successful life and career of one of our old scholars, Richard Collins (1968), now a leading figure in the Australian Motor vehicle industry and has an incredible record of philanthropy.
Boykett, Gascoigne Scott Club
LEFT Peter De Garis with the winning runners of the ‘Great Train Race'
C A R D
Photo courtesy of Louise Graham,
28
Puffing Billy is one of Victoria’s premier tourist attractions and one of the world’s most popular heritage railways running between Belgrave and Gembrook every day of the year except Christmas Day.
In 1993, Peter signed on as an engine cleaner in the workshops with such tasks as assisting the fireman, starting the fire in the loco (always started with wood, and coal is introduced later) and maintaining the working parts of the engine as well as cleaning the engine after the daily run. 1998 saw him become a fireman, a task he performed for 11 years. The job of fireman, one would assume, is simply a matter of shovelling coal into the firebox to keep the steam up to the engine. Nothing could be further from the truth! The skill of the fireman in keeping the correct amount of heat and fire going, cannot be understated as too much fire will damage the boiler and too little or poorly formed fire will seriously affect the way the train runs. Peter began the process to become a driver in 2008 requiring 1000 mile (1600 kms) of supervised driving. Each round trip is 34 miles (55 kms).
The club was named after two pioneers and one great stalwart of the club. The pioneers were David Boykett, the first Rugby Coach at Brighton Grammar and the late Paddy Gascoigne who was the second Rugby Coach at BGS. Douglas Scott, former Vice Principal was the man who supported and prospered the BGS Rugby with total commitment and utter devotion during his time at the School.
The whole train has a mass of between 74 and 90 tonnes depending on the number of passengers and despite the relatively slow maximum speed of 15 mph (24 kph) 2 to 3 times the length of the train are required to bring it to a complete stop. A close eye on the level crossings is critical to the safety of motorists, pedestrians and passengers alike. In May, Peter was the driver (there are around 25 drivers) given the honour of driving in the annual “Puffing Billy Great Train Race” where around 3200 runners raced the train to Gembrook with Peter De Garis at the throttle.
Thus these three great men make up the name of the re-launched Old Boys Rugby Club and of course, it was no coincidence that the three initials give us B.G.S. – Boykett, Gascoigne Scott! Right Rugby enthusiasts at the launch of the new club
Vale It is with sadness that we advise the names of Old Brighton Grammarians and their year of leaving who have passed away. Our condolences to their families. Anderson, Ross
(1970)
Macmichael, Peter
(1942)
Saunders, William
(1932)
Bottrill, Robert
(1947)
Peachey, Robert
(1956)
Singleton, Gordon
(1932)
Carr, Roger
(1950)
Reiss, Robert
(1963)
Tasker, David
(1975)
Dawes, Connor
(2012)
Rouch, Peter
(1956)
Whitaker, Howard
(1940)
Gillies, Don
(1951)
Royston, William
(1949)
29
30
SEQUAMUR SOCIETY
SEQUAMUR SOCIETY TOP Don and Jill Cameron
The Sequamur Society was established to honour and thank those members of the Brighton Grammar School Community who have confirmed their intention to include BGS in their Will.
CEntre L to R Tim Marshall, Roger Wilson OAM, Michael Talbot
Old Boys championing our Sequamur Society Andy McGuigan (OB 1939) Andy McGuigan, born in 1932 attended BGS from 1938 to 1948 under three Headmasters – Dixon, Green and Wilson. Whilst his father was in the navy, Andy boarded from 1942-44. One of Andy’s most cherished memories was captaining the 1948 BGS Premiership Swimming Team despite competing against Haileybury’s John Marshall who became an Olympic champion. Other highlights were playing the First XVIII, being a member of the Aths team, and digging war-time trenches on the Crowther Oval. On leaving school, Andy joined the accounting firm of ‘McGuigan and Court’ along with fellow old boys Ian Gibson and Gerald Hutchinson. In 1954 Canon Wilson married Andy and Eleanor Fry in St Andrew's. After several years working in Wangaratta, Andy joined COR/BP as Area Manager in Bendigo before being posted to Melbourne as Marketing and Training Manager. On retirement, Andy studied business at Monash and established a consulting business; at the same time he and Eleanor set up a ‘hobby’ antique business. Sadly Eleanor died in May 2007. Andy, always community minded, has been a member of Apex, Rotary, various kindergarten and school committees, sporting and environmental groups and was a foundation member of our BGS ‘Top Enders’. Andy now lives in Mt Martha, plays competition table tennis skippered by his best school-boy friend of 70 years, Jim Macfarlane. Andy is pleased to make a bequest to BGS in recognition for his long and splendid association with the school. In Andy’s words, “It’s been a great journey!”
Colonel Lachlan (Lachie) Thomson AM Lachie Thomson was born in Finley, NSW. He grew up on the family property, Onepah Station, in the far north-west of NSW. At age 10 he entered the boarding house at BGS (1945-51). He played cricket and football for the School and was President of the Rostrum (debating) Club. On leaving BGS, Lachie entered the Royal Military College at Duntroon and in 1955 was commissioned into the Royal Australian Artillery. His Army service included appointments as Aide De Corp to the Governor of Queensland, Staff Officer to the Chief Military Planning Officer at SEATO Headquarters, Bangkok and in 1969 he commanded 105 Field Battery in Vietnam where he was Mentioned-in-Despatches for distinguished service on operations. In his later career, Lachie became a Thailand specialist. An A Grade Interpreter/Translator, he spent almost 15 years in that country and in 1988 was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his contribution to Australian/Thai relations. After two tours as Australian Defence Attache to Thailand and Burma (Myanmar), he retired in 1990 and settled in Brisbane. Lachie and his American wife, Pat, whom he met in Thailand, have three grown-up children. As a youngster from the bush, suddenly thrust into the “big smoke,” Lachie has often said that whatever he has managed to achieve in his life is due in large measure to his time at BGS. He acknowledges his debt to the school for the wonderful start it gave him.
Celebrating the vision of Jack Wehsack, Richard ParsonS, and Frank and Dorothy Brown
Lower L to R Heather Arendsen, Ken and Elizabeth Pearce
To bequest or not to bequest, that is the question! My first thought when hearing of the establishment of the Sequamur Society was, ‘that’s a great initiative for older OBGS members!’ After all, I was yet to turn 30 and the notion of creating a will and thinking seriously about a division of my assets seemed achingly foreign. As the son of an Old Boy and member of staff for 28 years, and having attended the School alongside my brother, naturally my deep-seeded roots at the school plays a part in my bequest. But the truth behind my decision lies in my belief in the ‘product’ that is Brighton Grammar School. Now a teacher in the Middle School, and regardless of how long I continue to teach at Brighton Grammar School, it will always be a school that I believe in as I have seen first-hand the effect it can have in the lives of young men. Unless I win Tattslotto in coming years (fingers crossed!), my contribution won’t be enough to erect a new building or purchase a parcel of land, but it is a contribution. This is something that sits very comfortably with me as I continue to see boys prosper at the School. Tim Marshall
Annual Cocktail party In March, members of the Sequamur Society and guests enjoyed the ambiance of the School Library for this year’s annual Cocktail Party. During the evening, Chairman of Council, Ian Paroissien, outlined the progress and the teaching strategies to be adopted in the new Middle School, while Monty Stephens gave a most interesting presentation related to the School’s architectural history. Two new members were officially welcomed – Nan Stretton, mother of Geoff (OB 75) and John (OB 78), and former staff member John Arrowsmith.
Sequamur Society members at the 'Top Enders' Lunch LEFT L to R Peter Toms, Keith Robinson, Jim Begg, Wells Eden, Roger Wilson OAM and Andy McGuigan
Frank ‘Sarge’ Brown, the legendary PE teacher, was a strong disciplinarian yet revered father figure to many. Sarge taught at BGS from 1929 to 1947, but belonged to BGS until his death in 1972. Sarge’s dream was to establish a bursary to enable boys to remain at BGS despite their family suffering unexpected financial hardship. For our boys who have benefitted from ‘The Frank and Dorothy Brown Scholarship’, Sarge is a cherished reality. Old Boy Jack Wehsack’s vision was to provide a scholarship to enable teachers to undertake interstate and overseas research the teaching and learning of boys. Over the past seven years, Jack’s bequest has enabled staff to attend and present at conferences throughout Australia and in Sweden, USA, South Africa, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. The knowledge and experience gained at these conferences has enriched the education of our boys. Richard Parsons, BGS Dux 1954, was a man with a deep faith and strong community spirit. A former pharmacist, member of the Army Reserve, distinguished yachtsman and devoted parishioner of the Ballarat Cathedral. Richard’s bequest, directed to our Building Fund, has significantly contributed to the reality of our exciting Middle School complex. Are you interested in turning your dream into a reality? Contact Peter Toms at the BGS Development Office 8951 2274, ptoms@brightongrammar.vic.edu.au
OBGS Reunion calendar 2013/2014 Please mark these dates in your diary now for your Class Reunions to be held in the second half of 2013 and the first half of 2014. Invitations are mailed approximately 6 weeks prior to the reunion. REUNION
FUNCTION VENUE
DATE
15 Year Class of 1998
Dinner
Centenary Hall
26 July
20 Year Class of 1993
Dinner
Centenary Hall
2 Aug
Hobart APS Reunion
Cocktails
Hutchins School
21 Aug
Launceston APS Reunion Cocktails
Launceston Church GS 22 Aug
25 Year Class of 1988
Dinner
Centenary Hall
23 Aug
Top Enders
Lunch
Marine Hotel
29 Aug
Sydney Reunion
Cocktails
TBA
6 Sept
Brisbane Reunion
Lunch
TBA
7 Sep
40 Year Class of 1973
Dinner
Centenary Hall
11 Oct
50 Years On
Lunch
Centenary Hall
29 Nov
Top Enders Christmas
Lunch
Marine Hotel
12 Dec
2014 (Indicative dates) 60 Years On Pendennis Chapter
Morning Tea
Memorial Foyer
14 Feb
First Reunion Class of 2013
Happy Hour
Marine Hotel
21 Feb
30 Year Class of 1984
Dinner
Centenary Hall
28 Feb
Meliora Club
Dinner
Centenary Hall
18 Mar*
Top Enders
Lunch
Marine Hotel
24 April 23 May
10 Year Class of 2004
Cocktails
Centenary Hall
5 Year Class of 2009
Happy Hour
Marine Hotel
30 May
Top Enders
Lunch
Marine Hotel
26 June *TBA
NOTICE OF OBGS SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING Notice is hereby given that the Old Brighton Grammarians’ Society Incorporated will hold a Special General Meeting to consider changes to the Constitution of the Society in order that it complies with the requirements of the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 (Vic). The meeting will be held at Brighton Grammar School on Monday, 7 October, 2013 at 6pm in the Hay Family Lecture Theatre.
31
Be your Jamesown Gerstman – Superman. bringing life to learning Adventure traveller We know boys love heroes. Boundary pusher Keen cyclist Superheroes are inspirational 80s music tragicachieve good and courageous. They 9 mentor throughYear taking risk. Superhero powers BGS PE and HealthFlexibility, Teacher include Agility, Resilience,
Focus and Accountability. We teach our boys they all have the power to be their own Superman. “I love being able to walk through the Quad and you know every boy, every teacher, everyone’s name... even if you don’t teach them.”
90 Outer90Crescent Brighton Vic Vic Outer Crescent Brighton www.brightongrammar.vic.edu.au Telephone: 8591 2202 www.brightongrammar.vic.edu.au CRICOS provider No: 00132K CRICOS Provider No 00132K