MELIORA SEQUAMUR LET US KEEP PURSUING BETTER THINGS BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL COMMUNITY JOURNAL
LET US KEEP PURSUING BETTER THINGS
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BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL COMMUNITY JOURNAL
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EDITOR Emily Beaton ebeaton@brightongrammar.vic.edu.au DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Ross Donnan rdonnan@brightongrammar.vic.edu.au CONTRIBUTORS Michele Fisher Kate Birrell kbirrell@brightongrammar.vic.edu.au BGS Staff PRINTER Finsbury Green PRINT REGISTRATION Registered by Australia Post: 100001167
Congratulations to the Class of 2019 for another year of academic excellence. Our strong VCE results reflect the hard work and commitment of the boys and the quality and dedication of our teachers who helped them achieve their potential. We know that teachers are the major influencers on student learning and performance. At BGS, our major focus is on providing effective professional development for our teachers, to build their knowledge, skills and qualities, leading to improved teaching practice which enhances students’ outcomes.
Ross Featherston Headmaster
A CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE
Congratulations to the class of 2019 The graduating class of 2019 recorded another year of academic excellence. Dux of 2019, James Kelly (Mitchell) received a perfect ATAR score of 99.95, one of only 37 students in the state to achieve this. James was amongst 6% of BGS boys who earned an ATAR of 99 and above. Five students attained perfect study scores of 50. “I am especially proud that 38% of our students scored ATARs of 90 and above, which builds on last year’s results and reflects the high-performing learning environment we have created,” said Headmaster Ross Featherston. The five boys who achieved a perfect Study Score of 50 were Joshua Clyne (English), James Kelly (Mitchell) (English Language), 2
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Wall of Scholars
Dux James Kelly (Mitchell)
Meet our Dux James Kelly (Mitchell) High achievers at the Scholars’ Assembly
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I am especially proud that 38% of our students scored ATARs of 90 and above.
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Headmaster Ross Featherston
Michael Kantounatakis (History Revolutions), Leo Kouskouris (Further Mathematics) and Harrison Kirkham (Physical Education).
James was a keen mathematician from the time he arrived at Brighton Grammar and also earned numerous Distinction awards and prizes for French, Software Development, English and Physics. He was a member of the Student Council, played Chess and took part in Debating. He played Football and Touch Football for the School. James studied in America in 2018 before returning to complete his VCE in 2019 with great success.
The 21 students who achieved ATARs of 95 and above were guests of honour at a special Scholar’s Assembly for students and parents held in the first week of the new school term. They were presented with certificates, book prizes and vouchers in recognition of their achievements.
In Year 12, he received the English Language Prize, the French Prize, the R W Tovell Memorial Prize for Mathematical Methods, the Norman F Perrier Memorial Prize for Physics, the R W Tovell Memorial Prize for Specialist Mathematics and the H V Mitchell Essay Prize.
The boys are featured on a Wall of Scholars honour board which is displayed in the study area of the Hancock Wing. A number of Year 12 2020 students are already reserving their place on this year’s board.
James was awarded the prestigious Chancellor’s Scholarship at The University of Melbourne where he plans to study Commerce. AUTUMN 2020
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2020 School leaders
The School’s student prefects and captains were inducted at Chapel in the first week of the school year. Front row, from left they are: Craig Marais, Joshua Bortolussi, Harrison Kirkham (Vice Captain), Jack Clarkson (Captain), Jaikob Akinci (Vice Captain), Christopher Valcanis, Liam Konidaris, Darby Hipwell. Looking on proudly in the back row, from left, Peter Tellefson, Deputy Headmaster, Head of Junior School; Ross Featherston, Headmaster; Fr Chester Lord, Chaplain; Dr Rachel Horton, Deputy Headmaster, Head of Secondary School; Dr Ray Swann, Deputy Headmaster, Head of the Crowther Centre.
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Welcome to Secondary School
Year 7s are welcomed to Secondary School
The Year 7 boys arrived at School on 30 January 2020 for their first day bearing gifts, well more like boxes of books and bellies of nerves! The boys were met by their House Tutors and the Year 8s, who presented them with their House badges and shared their own stories of their first day. The School Prefects welcomed the boys with a rendition of the Brighton Grammar Chorus. The Year 11 boys then led them through a guard of honour to the Mitchell Oval where songs marked the Year 7s arrival to the St Andrew’s end of the School.
At the entrance to the Tower Wing, the Year 7s were greeted by School Marshal, Jason Bain, who asked the boys, (in his commanding voice), if they agreed to uphold the values of Brighton Grammar and always give of their best.
As the giant wooden doors swung open, the boys walked through smoke and were greeted by the cheers and uplifting songs of over 700 Year 8-12 BGS boys, welcoming them to the Secondary School family. Scott Davies, Head of Transition AUTUMN 2020
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Exceptional teachers BGS promotes a culture of high performance amongst the boys and the staff. A number of teaching staff were recognised with Tier 1 Reward and Recognition Awards at the end of the 2019 school year.
Meg Adem
These teachers were nominated by fellow staff members, for going above and beyond in their roles and for living the School’s values of respect, passion, accountability and integrity. Meg Adem is Head of Hancock House in the Secondary School, leader of the staff culture team and Head of Year 12 Psychology. Meg received a Tier 1 award for her exceptional commitment to the research, collation and delivery of findings and recommendations to the School’s Senior Executive team from the Staff Culture Audit, and her work with students and staff as Head of House and Teacher in Charge of Athletics.
Dean Bryan
Dean Bryan is Deputy Head of Junior School and would be a familiar face to many parents and past students. Dean was presented with his Tier 1 Award for his exceptional commitment to the Junior School, the leadership he provides to all members of staff, the high standards that he sets for himself, and being an excellent role model for students. Bryn Humberstone is Head of the Mathematics Faculty in the Secondary School and leads a team of expert teachers to promote Mathematics. Since he joined the School in 2018, Bryn has worked to place the focus on Maths, setting exceptionally high standards with a positive impact on staff and students. 6
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rstone
Bryn Humbe
Alan Wilkes
Olivia Tims For this, and his work in creating first class data analytics and processes, Bryn was a Tier 1 award winner.
Alan Wilkes is Mathematics Coordinator for Years 10-12. Alan’s efforts in providing informal mentoring and coaching support to Maths students, often in his own time, and in improving the Year 12 Maths Methods program earned him a Tier 1 award. Alan was nominated multiple times by his fellow staff members, and was also recognised for his work in promoting a collaborative working environment. Two staff teams were also recognised – the Junior School Data team of Joanne Davies, Patrick Sanders, Sam Kuring and David Eggleston for their work mapping the boys’ learning journeys and the wonderful ongoing work of the Grounds and Maintenance team of Blake Andrighetto, Dwi Ariantono, Jared Bryar, Ray Czekajlo, Matt Coulton, Mark Harrison, Doug McKelvie, Danny Picar and Adam Thorn. A number of staff also received Tier 2 and Tier 3 awards for their efforts throughout the year.
Olivia Tims joined the School in 2002 and is based in the Junior School as a Psychologist and Head of Counselling Services, leading the team of School Student Counsellors. She received her Tier 1 award for her amazing support to students, parents and staff alike, providing strategies that enable problems to be managed in an age appropriate, collaborative manner, demonstrating compassion and empathy.
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Christian Machar (Head of Student Leadership) uses the Effective Learner Model to engage Year 8 Humanities students.
What does a great teacher look like? At Brighton Grammar, we know that teachers play an essential role in the academic success of all the boys they teach. Now, a recent study by The University of Melbourne, commissioned by the Australian Government Department of Education and Training, has found the top 10 characteristics that effective teachers all share. • • • • • • • • • •
High self-worth Ability to think creatively and critically Social and emotional learning competence Effective communication skills High expectations of students Motivation Cultural competence Positive attitude Self-reflection Collegiality
Helping teachers to develop their expertise and professional practice has been the focus of the Crowther Centre in recent years. The School has adopted the Effective Learner Model approach to teaching and learning
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which encompasses the PROSPER framework focusing on positive education. This model is used in classes and groups from ELC to VCE, to help the boys to engage in their studies and prepare for purposeful lives. Teaching staff have a playbook of research-informed, high impact strategies that support student learning. Teachers continually practise these strategies through coaching and the use of video, similar to any other high performance profession. Through professional reading, workshops, coaching and video analysis our teachers continually adapt and improve their professional practice.
AN EFFECTIVE LEARNER
Visible Learning for Boys Building Effective Learners
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Effective Learner model
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Learning
Learning
Learning
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ENTREPRENEURSHIP
iDesign: solving real world problems Since Brighton Grammar launched iDesign in 2011, the ‘Educator Innovative Schools’ awarded program for Year 8 boys has seen 1000 projects imagined and created. The culmination of a semester’s work, the program challenges boys to solve a real world problem in the fields of sustainability, innovation and creativity. Encouraging enterprise is the goal, but the lasting impact is the time boys spend together with parents and mentors throughout the process.
OVERALL WINNER OF IDESIGN 2019 Jenson Galvin Digest-a-Bowl edible dog bowls
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Angus Tragear-Whiting with his Buzz Honey product design
George Roubos discusses his book
F1 in schools
BGS F1 team at Scienceworks
Five teams from BGS competed in the F1 in Schools State Finals at Scienceworks late last year. With 20 students involved in three different classes – Cadet, Development and Professional – the boys worked tirelessly over eight months in order to compete against some of the strongest teams in the world. Brighton Grammar has been competing for the past four years and this year finished 3rd in the Cadet Class, 7th in the Development Class and 6th in Professional Class. The F1 in Schools STEM Challenge is the world’s foremost student competition for Science, Technology, Engineering
and Mathematics. Each year more than 17,000 schools in 44 nations take on the challenge of developing the world’s fastest miniature F1 car. While we aim to win the competition, the value in simply competing cannot be underestimated. Our thanks to Lexus of Brighton F1 in Schools who sponsor all teams at Brighton Grammar, and to the individual team sponsors. Jamie Watson, F1 in Schools Coordinator
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Meeting scientists by Skype
Skype with a scientist What better way to engage boys in Science than to have a scientist present over Skype? The Year 4 boys have been investigating rocks, soil and landscapes through a series of hands-on activities. They were fortunate to have a ‘Skype with a Scientist’ session with Heather Handley, Associate Professor of Volcanology and Geochemistry from the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Macquarie University in NSW.
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For the Year 1 cohort, their learning on water came to life as they heard first-hand about the effects pollutants have on water and its impact on sea life. The boys were intrigued to be talking to a real life Scientist on the
STEM Centre screen and it was fantastic to watch them apply their learning through the questions they asked our Skype guest. Laura Hall, Junior School Science Teacher
The motorbike project
The motorbike crew
The Motorbike Project began two years ago as an ambitious idea to restore a Vintage Royal Enfield. The classic motorbike was stripped back and gradually rebuilt by the boys, with the aim of selling it for charity. With the knowledge and expertise of two Old Boys, Jack Peters (OB 2018) and Charlie Hannah (OB 2018), a team of dedicated students helped to make this vision a reality. On the final day of school last year, the boys added the decal, signed their names, and we were thrilled to see the motorbike start for the first time.
designing the decals, and Travis Hopgood, Martin Green, Ray Czekajlo and Matt Coulton for their contributions. A final thank you to our generous sponsors Sidchrome for donating all of the tools for the project. We look forward to embarking on more exciting projects this year. Dr Ray Swann, Deputy Headmaster, Head of the Crowther Centre
Congratulations to the following boys for their help at various stages over the past two years: Olly Grasby, Mitz Metaxas, Ben Hamson, Micah Swann, Jack Harrington, Tomas Stewart, Lachie Auden, Hugo Kepper, Hugo Fyfe, Charlie Anderson and Tom Anderson. Thanks also to the staff members involved: Jamie Watson for all his work, including AUTUMN 2020
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Jax solar pax Jackson Court, Year 10, has been busy honing his entrepreneurial side with the launch of his Jax Solar Pax. As part of his iDesign project last year, Jackson designed and produced a solar equipped backpack. The backpacks have proved popular (our Headmaster has one) and Jackson was kept busy at the St Andrew’s Christmas markets. Jacskon Court at St Andrew’s Christmas Market
Danish visitors examine student voice at BGS In February, Brighton Grammar welcomed a group from the Association of Danish Pupils. The aim of the group’s 14 day tour was to examine student voice in Australian schools. The students heard from various staff about student leadership roles, as well as studentled initiatives such as the Legacy Project, to programs such as Year 11 Outdoor Education 14
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Leadership, First Horizons, Tomorrow Man and student Coaching. The group was particularly interested in single-sex schooling, as there are only coeducational schools in Denmark. Christian Machar Head of Student Leadership Years 7-12
Billy Cart Cup Throughout the Junior School, the boys work towards developing their design technology skills to build a billy cart in Year 6 which they race in the Billy Cart Cup. Under the guidance of teachers Bill Gibney and Laura Hall, the boys research billy carts, then create a scale model before developing a full size prototype, which they race in the Cup. In groups of three, the boys learn how to build and construct a billy cart frame which is strong enough to hold them and be pushed around a track when wheels are finally added. They have an $80 budget to purchase any extra items needed. This unit links in with Science, where Newton’s laws of motion are considered when designing the carts, and Literacy, with the
boys focusing on the text Spit Nolan, which tells the story of a champion billy cart racer. Congratulations to all Year 6 students who competed, especially Harvey Newstead, Max Pihan and Corey Gendala who raced the fastest cart over the three lap final, Huw Thomas, Tom Fisher and Ethan Bao who won the Design Cup, and Frank Wu who designed the racing track. Rob Bater, Year 6 Classroom Teacher
Winning idea Sam Stewart (Year 11) has won the inaugural BMW yourMelbourne competition (City Living Category) for his innovative driveway sensor to alert pedestrians and traffic of reversing vehicles. The award came with a cheque for $5,000 and the use of a brand new BMW Hybrid car for six months. The BMW yourMelbourne competition was open to Victorian high school students and asked for ideas on how to improve Melbourne’s transport in 2040. Sam used his iDesign project as his entry. His idea is a sensor using flashing LED lights in the driveway that detects reversing vehicles to alert pedestrians that a car is about to drive out of the property. He built a working prototype at his house which the family has used for several months. Sam with the prize-winning cheque and BMW
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BGS Keep Cup The BGS Keep Cup, available for $26 online, is an initiative of the BGS student Eco-club. The club’s first project has been to design and produce an environmentally friendly BGS Keep Cup. Sales will help fund other Eco-Club projects.
Headmaster Ross Featherston was presented at Assembly with the first Keep Cup, which he can use instead of disposable coffee or tea cups in order to reduce his impact on the environment. Every purchase of a keep cup will help BGS begin its journey toward carbon neutrality. Anna Ladas Director of Service
To purchase visit bit.ly/BGSKeepCup 16
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Watch this space Anna Ladas and her Community Service team are busy planning a BGS Bushfire Appeal, in response to the bushfire crisis in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia over the Christmas and New Year. More details to come.
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HIGH PERFORMANCE LEARNING CULTURE
Inspiring role models Ready to soar! At the end of the 2019 school year, our 25 volunteer student coaches from Year 11 joined their Year 6 coachees for an end of year celebration prior to their transition to Secondary School.
After school, the younger students made commitments to leave their bad habits behind at the Junior School. They placed their written intentions in a fire pit before heading to the Urwin Centre for a celebration of their success with their parents and their student coach. These Secondary students made a real difference in the lives of the younger students, fostered genuine connections, 18
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Tommy Colaci and Thanasi Nimorakiotakis
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The best part of the coaching experience was having someone to talk to Year 6 student
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These Year 6 boys had worked across the year on a range of personal goals with the support of an older role model. These goals included: getting into an interschool debating team; reading longer books; improving their mathematics skills; reducing spelling errors; building their hockey skills and growing their friendship circle. All the boys, regardless of age, reported they would recommend the BGS Coaching program to their peers.
explored leadership opportunities and built better communication skills – all of which they will put into practice well beyond the program. Brent Brickhill, Instructional Coach
Year 9 History students
A moment in history As part of the Year 9 History curriculum, students learn about World War 1. They participated in a ‘Stations Activity’ where they moved around the room and completed different activities based on different aspects of the war, for example, writing a postcard from their training camp in Egypt, analysing sources from Gallipoli and voting in the Conscription Referendum. Some very special ANZAC Centenary Bears gave the boys an idea of the uniforms that were worn by the nurses, the light horse and the foot soldiers. A great visible thinking activity!`
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School of Rock How can a boy school not have a rock band? Music teacher Frances Walker had the same thought, and last semester the Rock Band elective was offered to Year 9 students, which sits alongside Classical Performance classes. With enough boys to fill two bands, the class visited Hothouse Audio in St Kilda to record five songs among them, including original compositions. It was a big learning curve for all, with some instruments 20
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learnt from scratch. The elective will be offered again this year to budding rock musicians, giving them the opportunity to write and record their own songs and music.
Frankston Sony Camp While most students finished up the school year in early December, 42 Year 7−11 BGS boys, seven BGS staff and a group of Berendale School students headed off for the 75th Frankston Camp.
Now known as the Sony Foundation Frankston Camp and located near Kyneton, the camp sees boys from both schools enjoy each other’s company and have fun challenging themselves in an outdoor environment with rope climbs, zip lines and festive activities over this fun weekend.
BGS students and Berendale School students.
Brighton Grammar has a longstanding relationship with the camp. Director of Sport Tim Marshall has attended 25 of the 75 camps either as a student or as a staff member and Director of Operations Cameron Taylor has notched up his 10th year of attending – a great effort by both.
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First Horizon program The inaugural Year 10 First Horizon Program which marks the transition of BGS boys into emerging young men was held at the end of last year. The four day program honours the boys’ achievements and encourages them to create their own unique vision for their future. Boys and their mentors share their own authentic stories, build connections, consider and face challenges and then project forward to think about the future. Under the Oak tree for the VCE Blazer Presentation at the end of the program, a shift occurred. The 2020 Year 11s were welcomed back as young men by the new Year 12s. It was a powerful four days, bringing our community closer together to support our new young men to become the best version of themselves as successful, good men. James Hilditch, Indigenous and Cultural Development Coordinator
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“FIRST HORIZON” LOGO - 3 COLORS
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New sports uniform
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At Brighton Grammar, sport plays a significant part in the life of the School. The spirit of friendship, camaraderie and community involvement means BGS is well recognised for its sporting achievements as a school across Bayside and greater Melbourne. A new sports uniform for both HPE (sport as an academic subject) and BGS Sport for APS competition was launched recently and has been readily embraced by the boys.
Designer Jonathon Ward worked closely with all stakeholders to develop a range of uniforms that reflect the School’s 138year history, is contemporary in look and strengthens BGS’s visibility, both on and off the sporting field. The new uniform is flexible and comfortable to wear, and includes specialty garments across individual sports that improve performance. The academic crest features prominently on the HPE uniform and, in keeping with BGS tradition, the School is proud to be reintroducing the historical sporting shield on the new sport uniform.
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Student perspective: A year on exchange Japanese exchange student from Rikkyo High School, Arito Nagasaka spent 2019 at Brighton Grammar in Year 10. He loved the school, his host family the Sidebottoms and the experience. Arito felt very welcomed by Anne Sidebottom and her family from the start: “I am pretty sure that I have become a part of the most beautiful family since the first day we met”. “Every moment was the best memory of my exchange in Australia. In contrast, the city of Tokyo, my hometown, is incredibly busy as it is known as one of the busiest places in the world. In Australia now is different from Japan. It is usual to greet each other with a massive smile. I have time to see a beautiful sunset and chat with a family about how was your day so far”. One event that stood out for him was a three day trip to Hall’s Gap, an annual event for the Sidebottom family in memory of their late Uncle Andy. Arito played footy with all the cousins, saw kangaroos in the bush and talked around the campfire. Memorably for him, he was welcomed into the extended family. “I had never met most of them before, but I had felt we had known each other before we met. And all 28 people in the Sidebottom family were my mates and a great family in Australia”. As his exchange came to a close at the end of last year, Arito turned his mind to a gift for the family, “to repay them for what they have given to me”.
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Arito Nagasaka
“My host brother and sister always said ‘Goodbye!’ and waved their hands with smiles until they could not see me when I leaved home. My host mother always gave me good advice for essays, my career or life. She is one of the kindest, funniest and most gallant women in the world. I will miss them so much”. “On the other hand, I am pretty sure they would have gained something from the experience. My six-year old host brother started to park his bike the same as I usually do (which is so cute). And we often go to his school by bike or play basketball and footy”. “My host family has given me thousands of good memories, but I realised I also gave them thousands of happy memories as well. That is the whole point of the homestay in overseas program that people who have a different culture share the same memories”. “It is an incredibly short time that I spent with them. But even though we will be living in different countries, we are still family, and it will never change. These eight months mean so much to me. Thanks for hosting me and I will never forget you, as like your family never forget me”. “See you mate!” Maggie Lynch, International Student Coordinator AUTUMN 2020
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AROUND THE SCHOOL
Building projects update The redevelopment of the GBR Hall in the Junior School is an exciting project. Due for completion in mid-2020, the project will deliver a huge boost to the Junior School Music program, with new spaces for teaching, ensembles, small group rehearsal and private music tuition. The building will also be the site for a purpose built internal play space for ELC – Year 6 boys. The program underpinning this internal space will involve a scope and sequenced physical development journey using climbing, balancing, strength and core components with a range of boy-friendly equipment to support the program goals.
GB Robertson Hall facade
BGS’s first indoor aquatics facility, which will enable year-round swimming programs to take place, opens next term. The highly anticipated upgrade will provide new opportunities for APS Swimming, Water Polo and class-based learn to swim activities to take place. Work is continuing on a new school fence to surround the perimeter of the Crowther and Mitchell playing fields. The new fence will physically define the playing fields, improve spectator vantage points and create a strong visual to the passing traffic. Michael Arceri, Chief Operating Officer The swimming pool under construction
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O DE RC UN N TIO UC TR NS CO DE R UN ION RU CT ST ON RC
The GB Robertson Hall ground floor works in progress
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Celebrating success
On Valedictory Day, we celebrated the achievements and successes of our 2019 VCE students at a special prize-giving assembly.
Ready to get fit Our international parents took up the opportunity to try out the gym equipment and spin classes at Annandale recently. Under the expert eye of Ian Miller, Head of Strength and Conditioning, the group increased their cardio fitness while having fun at the same time.
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ELC visit
Harry in ELC with the Headmaster
The Headmaster dropped by the ELC one morning earlier this year to join the boys in their mindfulness session. He and the boys practised their breathing techniques to help start the day with calmness and positivity.
BGS on the move You may have noticed the BGS branded school buses that are on the road this year, promoting our school and the bus services we provide to students who live in neighbouring suburbs. The Junior School boys featured on the buses have given them the seal of approval. Marco D’Assisi and Huey Bastone
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Staff News
Sandy Mitchell
Vale On 11 November 2019, Brighton Grammar rowing community lost an integral member with the passing of rowing coach Alexander ‘Sandy’ Mitchell.
Adieu and thank you At the end of 2019, we said a fond adieu to the following long standing staff members – Nancy Ting, Head of Chinese Year 7-12, Junior School teachers David Turner and Christine Marks, and Father Tony Poole, Secondary School Chaplain. We wish them well in their retirements and new ventures.
Sandy, who was with the rowing program at BGS for eight years (2011-2019), was a wonderful mentor to the boys and his lessons extended well beyond the boat. He helped to shape the lives of many young rowers who looked to him as a role model of a good man and he was instrumental to the success of the Meliora rowing club. Sandy’s career highlights featured his two passions: rowing and music. He was Captain of Boats at Scotch College in Melbourne in his final year of school and then followed roles as assistant manager of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and manager/ conductor of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, founder of the Argonauts Rowing Club in Melbourne, talent coach at Mercantile Rowing Club, rowing coach at the Australian Institute of Sport and Board Member and CEO of Rowing Victoria. Sandy will be missed by all who worked with him or were coached by him. A guard of honour of Mercantile, Brighton Grammar and Argonauts rowers guided his casket on its final journey. With thanks to Dick Bartlett and Mercantile Rowing Club
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BGS babies Freddie John Weymouth arrived on 11 February 2020, second child to Nick Weymouth, Secondary School Teacher, and his wife Joy.
Harper Jean Barker arrived on 27 December 2019, a daughter for Matt Barker, Junior School Teacher, and his wife Kylie.
Patrick Sanders, Director of Curriculum and Assessment (ELCVCE), and his wife Ailie welcomed Hazel Frankie on 24 January 2020. Rohit Dixit, MIS Team, and his wife Aakanksha welcomed their first child, a daughter Ariana on 25 November 2019.
James Hilditch, Indigenous and Cultural Development Coordinator, and his partner Jenna welcomed Billie Hunter Hilditch on 7 November 2019.
Ruby Louise Parry arrived on 4 December 2019, first child for Elly Parry, Accounts, and her husband Henry.
Congratulations Zylkade Zekerija, Secondary School English Teacher, and Will Emini were married on 5 October 2019 at Alencia Receptions. AUTUMN 2020
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Rugby success
The winning team
The BGS Rugby 7s side were crowned the champion team of APS 7s for 2019. The series and finals round were held at Xavier College in November. The boys won through to the final to face Xavier College. In a physical and taxing final, BGS triumphed 19 – 7. Max Mitchell-Adams was presented with the championship trophy by Harry Potter (OB 2015), now a Melbourne Rebels player.
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Top Player Thomas Dunne, Year 7, received a perfect score in the 2019 Australasian Maths Problem Solving Olympiads, placing him in the top 0.43% of participants. Thomas received an ICAS Maths medal for a perfect score. Well done to one of our brightest and best.
Student Achievements
Practice makes perfect The combined orchestras, senior and Meliora concert bands and combined choirs were busy in the lead up to the end of the 2019 school year with performances at Speech Nights for both Junior and Secondary Schools, the Community Carols Service and even performing for older members of the Bayside community at The Crescent, located opposite the School.
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Sport State selection A number of students were selected to state teams in their respective sports in 2019.
Congratulations to brothers Finn (Year 8) and Caelan Mackay (Year 6) who made the 2019 Victorian State Under 12 Touch Team. Finn was elected Captain of the team.
Congratulations to Frank Ralogaivau (Year 11) on his selection in the Rugby Victoria Youth Boys 7s State Team. The side competed at the National Championships on the Sunshine Coast in late November against state teams from around Australia.
Ben Sexton and Spencer Wood (Year 11) were in Queensland with the Cricket Victoria’s Metro U17 State Squad. They have had a victory against ACT/NSW country team. Spencer made 66 opening the batting and Ben took 3/26 with the new ball.
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Congratulations to Henry Pearson (Year 10) on his selection to Cricket Victoria’s Metro Under 15 team who recently competed at the national championships in Ballarat. Henry is one of just 14 players selected to the Vic Metro U15 squad, which is a wonderful achievement.
Tom Marriott (Year 10) captained the Victorian Under 15 years Touch Football Team and competed in the national championships in Canberra.
Soccer players Campbell Dovison (Year 9), George Mihailidis (Year 9), Cade Segar (Year 8) and Oliver Holland (Year 10) represented Football Victoria in the Football Federation Australia National Youth Championships in Coffs Harbour in October. All boys progressed through to the finals. AUTUMN 2020
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First BGS/FGS joint squad training session
In early February we had our first ever Firbank Grammar and Brighton Grammar squad swimming session in the Firbank Swimming Pool. With around 90 swimmers in the water it was an excellent opportunity for Firbank and BGS students to interact and train together. Thursday morning combined sessions were held in the lead up to the GSV and APS championship meets.
Crowther Oval The brief gap in the rain clouds in early November meant we could show you this teaser of the Crowther Oval, pictured here before Round 1 of APS Sport Cricket for BGS vs Caulfield Grammar School.
Rowing hit out The first hit-out of the year at the Ballarat Regatta proved a promising start for the BGS rowing crews winning 1st places in: Under 21 Pair Final and C Final, Under 21 Coxed Quad Scull and School Coxed Four Open Division 1. Well done boys. Go Tonners!
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Fun at Adventure Park for BGS Swim Team The 2020 BGS Swim Team on camp at the start of the year in Queenscliff put in some hard yards and luckily dodged the rain and hail. Although inclement weather wasn’t going to stop them, especially from a visit to Adventure Park!
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Court of Companions
The Court of Companions commemorates those members of staff who, by their devotion and long-term service, have contributed significantly to the advancement of Brighton Grammar School.
Celebrating our staff The Court of Companions was established by former Headmaster, Robert Rofe, in the 1980s to acknowledge those members of staff who by their devotion made a significant contribution to the advancement of education at Brighton Grammar School. Initially, membership of the Court of Companions was granted to teaching staff with a minimum of 15 years tenure at BGS; however, during Michael Urwin’s headmastership, membership was extended to our professional support staff which includes administrative and grounds and maintenance staff. To date, there are 173 members of the Court of Companions. Of the 116 living members 29 are current staff members. One of the outstanding characteristics of Brighton Grammar school has been staff continuity borne out of a profound sense of staff loyalty and commitment. This is further exemplified by the school’s eight Headmasters in 139 years and four Heads of Junior School in 82 years. In 1997 the School celebrated the first annual Court of Companions Dinner. Recently the Dinner has been replaced by a Cocktail Party, enabling members to socialise more freely particularly as this is one of the few occasions during the year when former staff
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Doug McKelvie
Terry-Anne Ashley
members have the opportunity to catch up with past and current staff. This year Doug McKelvie, Senior Maintenance Officer and Terry-Anne Ashley, a member of our Music staff, will be welcomed into the Court of Companions having completed 15 years of outstanding service at BGS.
Brendan Rahn: Forty years on…. This year Brendan, a much admired and gifted Junior School teacher, commences his 40th year at BGS. In reaching this milestone, Brendan joins an exclusive BGS club as there are only eight other members of staff who taught at BGS for 40 or more years: Sarge Brown, Ray Muntz, Harry Zachariah, Mary De Salis, Rick Pemberton, Ken Robertson, Andrew Kerr and Peter Toms. Brendan has held numerous positions of responsibility in the Junior School including 15 years as Curriculum Coordinator and the coordinator of various year levels. As Curriculum Coordinator in the ‘90s Brendan led the revision of all curriculum areas in the
Junior School, an exacting task over a five year period. Recently, I asked Brendan to reflect on the following:
Why teaching? I have always had very fond memories of my school days which certainly influenced my choice of career. One teacher in particular, my Grade 5 and 6 Teacher Mr Williamson, was a terrific role model: he loved teaching, taking us for sport, just talking to us – his obvious satisfaction from his work inspired me to teach. AUTUMN 2020
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Changes over the past 40 years at BGS? One of the most significant changes has been the impact of technology. The introduction of mindfulness, circle time, wellbeing and the development of instrumental and choral music, are now essential elements of a wider curriculum. Sport today is built into the daily timetable. Facilities have undergone enormous changes with the rebuilding of the Junior School classrooms and the refurbishment of all other teaching and recreational spaces such as the oval, the pool, the GBR Hall, Borwick House, the Mabel Fairweather Building, the Early Learning Centre and our playgrounds.
Are boys different today? Boys today are clearly more confident in articulating their thoughts and emotions. Their ability to access information has also grown and they engage in a far wider range of pursuits in their lives. However, boys still thrive on healthy competition, embrace hands-on design and construction activities and love to be active. Most importantly, they value enormously their mates and always care for each other.
achieve the best possible outcomes for the boys. Also having colleagues around you who love their profession; parents who love their boys; and boys who love their school, love being with their mates and love the opportunity to learn – all this makes our professional life richly rewarding. Catching up with ex-students, and having the privilege of teaching the sons of boys whom I have previously taught, brings incredible satisfaction.
Today life can be more challenging for boys as they experience the adverse impact of social media, disconnected families, both parents working, the prevalence of drugs, and the general dilution of honesty and trust in society.
When you retire, what’s on the ‘bucket list’?
This is why good teachers are so important for our boys. Our School provides consistency and certainty in our boys’ lives and adults with whom they can have confidence and trust in.
What have you found most satisfying in your work? Having the day-to-day opportunity to work closely with boys and parents to 42
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I look forward to spending more time with my family and my four beautiful grandchildren. I intend to split our time living between South Gippsland and Melbourne. However, I do have four important goals: to walk The Camino with a family member; to attend the US Masters; to keep fit and improve my flawed golf game; and to be at the ‘G’ when the mighty Saints win that elusive second premiership.
Peter Toms Bequest Manager
Sequamur Society
The Sequamur Society honours and thanks those members of our community who have confirmed their intention to include Brighton Grammar School in their Will.
Wills information evening Eighteen Old Boys were briefed by solicitors Tony Balfe (OB 1966) and John Willis (OB 1966) at the inaugural Wills Information Evening in October 2019. Topics included: what is required for a valid Will; what happens if you or a relative dies intestate; what can and what can’t be included in a Will; when is it necessary to rewrite a Will; how often can you change your Will; why and how can a Will be successfully challenged; and important issues to consider when appointing an Executor. Tony and John also took questions and, in the spirit of the OBGS, offered significantly reduced fees for those who wished to follow up with their services. More than 40% of Australian adults will die without having a valid Will. Many of those who do often fail to include pertinent details. I would be pleased to hear from Old Boys or others in our community who would be interested in attending a similar evening this year or in 2021.
Contemplating including a gift to the School in your Will? Including a gift to the School in your Will is such a fitting way to show your affection and appreciation for BGS. For a confidential discussion regarding your gift, please contact Peter Toms on 8591 2274 or ptoms@brightongrammar.vic.edu.au
Peter Toms Bequest Manager
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Old Boys
NEWS
Connecting our community It has been a tumultuous start to the year for many people and the OBGS community is not immune to the challenges that so many have faced. As a community, we are here to support our members and do what we can to make life better. That, in essence, is what the OBGS is about. We exist to bring our members together either virtually or physically, to benefit them, the Society, and the School. A list of events for 2020 can be found on the inside back cover of this issue. This list will be updated during the year so check obgsglobalconnect.com.au regularly for further opportunities we will give you for business networking and to enjoy BGS sporting events. Make sure you keep your
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online profile up to date so you can receive regular communications about these events, and other news. The OBGS celebrates both individuals and community, and the tale of the Old Boy network behind Harry Butler’s new café is a great example. If you have more stories like this, please send them to me as we love featuring our Old Boys, and what they are up to in Meliora, and online. And who knows, we may also ask you to come and speak to the boys like David Russell (OB 1987), pictured above with Chairman Peter Ickeringill and me at the Year 12 Prize Giving Assembly. I look forward to connecting with you in 2020. Kate Birrell, Alumni and Community Manager
From the OBGS president There are times in which juggling the dual roles of OBGS President and BGS Director of Sport go hand-in-hand.
on the Crowther Oval, and our back-to-back Tennis Premiership teams will enjoy a 20 year reunion.
While our Old Boys are connected to the School in a myriad of ways, sport continues to play a major role in a sense of belonging for a number of alumni.
There are a number of events also in the pipeline for the winter season when our Soccer, Football, Basketball and Rugby teams all host home fixtures on the same day.
In 2020, 107 Old Boys will take charge of Years 5−12 sporting teams at BGS throughout the summer, winter and spring seasons across 21 sports.
While sport provides a seamless link for many, in recent years we have enjoyed exploring a number of ways to connect to our alumni. This includes a host of online initiatives and an increase in the number of reunions.
The coaching, role modelling and mentoring that our Old Boy coaches provide has very much become the backbone of the School’s sporting programs. Our Old Boy coaches will come into contact with over 1000 budding young sportsmen by year’s end, further strengthening the connectedness and culture of our sporting programs. In Term 1 alone, we have held a BGS Generations event, a First XI Cricket game
Last year saw the inaugural business networking lunch and we travelled far and wide in reaching out to Old Boys, both interstate and overseas. Here’s to a big 2020 for the OBGS! Tim Marshall OBGS President
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NEAR AND FAR
An inspirational journey Old Boy Chris Cannon (2004) sees adversity in life like altitude training and at just 33 years of age, he has already experienced quite a lot of adversity, and the success it trained him for. Chris enjoyed his 13 years at BGS and had quite a talent for tennis. Other than tennis though, he avoided PE and was a selfconfessed “fat kid” for most of his school life. At 17 however, he had a lightbulb moment and decided to do something about his health. “At 17, between Year 11 and 12 … I started boxing and in six months I dropped 40 kilos and that reshaped my life. It was a gift and a curse coming into our final years. Suddenly there was distractions like girls, but I learned a lot about myself. My life flipped on a dime.” Chris’s journey to inspire others had begun. After he finished school, Chris’s belief in himself led him to a business degree which he studied while launching two fashion labels, despite no knowledge of the fashion business. He wanted to inspire people through design and within three months his clothes were in stores and within nine months the fashion label was Australiawide. At the same time, he continued his association with gyms, first on reception, then as a fully qualified instructor. At 21 he met his now wife Bec, but a crisis in Bec’s family meant he had to grow up quickly by supporting her and her family. It was a very difficult period that impacted 46 AUTUMN 2020
them all heavily, and part of the reason Chris chose to leave the fashion world to have a positive impact through health and fitness. “That’s one thing you have as a Brighton Grammar boy, that sense of certainty and security …. that can be really powerful when used right. It gives you the confidence to go for anything that you believe you can, and that’s what it had given me”. He developed a youth program for teens and schools, Red Team, incorporating a toolkit to help kids struggling with physical or mental health. Chris has always been driven to inspire others, and, as part of this drive, constantly re-educating himself in physical and mental health and wellbeing, and putting this knowledge into practice
for both himself and the programs he creates. Life Hub studio was born in 2014 to provide a high-quality, tailored personal training experience, but in a group setting for affordability and the highly beneficial connection that comes from being part of a community of like-minded people. Six years down the track Life Hub is a roaring success, with plans to open additional studios in Geelong and Melbourne this year. Chris is also a Lululemon ambassador, a company that he says aligns with his values. “It’s been a journey. I’ve learned to listen to myself, to not follow a path just for the sake of it. I’m lucky enough that the adversity gave me lessons that allowed me to listen and lean into. Everything I’ve been through built a part of my value set.” “A big part of my purpose is helping people set and achieve the goals that they value most by creating tools and strategies and an environment right for their success. I’m fulfilling my values to impact, inspire, educate, empower and lead with direction. And to me that is success.” AUTUMN 2020 47
Famous Old Boys Our Hall of Fame, located next to the Robert Sanderson Centenary Hall, has grown to incorporate a further 18 boards, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of our latest inductees and the contributions they have made to society.
Rob Priestley cuts the ribbon to officially launch the new Hall of Fame boards.
The most recent 13 Hall of Famers and 5 Young Achievers were invited back to BGS in late 2019, along with their families, to the official unveiling of the boards. Hall of Famer, Rob Priestley officially unveiled the boards before guests were able to mix with fellow inductees and their families. Since the launch of our Hall of Fame 12 years ago, we have inducted 60 Old Boys. Next time you’re attending an event at BGS, make sure you visit our Hall of Fame where the achievements of the latest inductees, along with our existing inductees, are proudly displayed.
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Hall of Famer Les Heil stands proudly beside his board.
Big Ten punter of the year Congratulations Blake Hayes (OB 2016), named the Eddleman-Fields Punter of the Year, along with being a First Team All-Big Ten selection for US College football. In the lead up to the 2019 University of Illinois football season, Blake Hayes wrote down some goals for his junior year and top of his list: Big Ten Punter of the Year. Mission accomplished. “… I went back to my book, and it was a goal I had down to start,” Hayes said. Hayes has been named Illinois football’s Dike Eddleman Most Outstanding Special Teams Player twice during his Illini career, but the Eddleman-Fields award felt a bit bigger. Hayes had an incredible freshman and sophomore year, but he took it to a higher level as a junior. Hayes finished second in the Big Ten and 18th nationally with a punt average of 44.8 yards. Hayes dropped 28 punts inside the 20-yard line, an Illini record.
Above Old Boys Izaak, Blake and Andrew with families Below Izaak Gerkis (OB 2013), Blake Hayes (VC of School 2016) and Andrew McGrath (Captain of School 2016). Isaak is a punter at University of Michigan, and Andrew McGrath plays AFL at Essendon FC.
Ever humble, Hayes acknowledged the contribution of his team mates to his great record. “It’s buy-in from all the players. The protection does a great job and the gunners get down there. I have the best gunners.” Hayes has returned to the University of Illinois for next season. Despite interest
from NFL franchises, Hayes wants to finish off his degree in Kinesiology. He is closing in on multiple Illinois punting records and a good senior season could mean Hayes takes the title of best Illini punter ever. Talented, hardworking, and humble in acknowledgement of team mates. Meliora Sequamur. AUTUMN 2020
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Old Boys, from left, Bryan Scott, Harry Butler, Joel Acquroff, Brett Parnham, Daniel Mann, and Adam Lane.
OBGS network a winner A group of eight BGS Old Boys helped café owner Harry Butler (OB 2002) to open the acclaimed Levi café in Murrumbeena in December last year.
Harry drew on the OBGS network and enjoyed creating this new venture with a slew of Old Brighton Grammarians. They included Bryan Scott (OB 1999) carpentry work; Joel Acquroff (OB 2002) glass, timber and shelving; Brett Parnham (OB 1995) tables, chairs and stools; Daniel Mann (OB 2000) electrical work; Adam Lane (OB 2002) kitchen equipment/finance; Toby Ewert (OB 1996) and Will Leaf (OB 2000), architecture; Tom Willis (OB 2002) lighting. As co-owner, Harry opened Levi, named in a nod to the history of the building as a jeans factory, following the great success of his Cheltenham café Frank’s. Levi has received wonderful reviews and has been embraced by the people of Murrumbeena and neighbouring suburbs. Old Boys with a business to promote or looking for a supplier can use the exclusive Old Boy directory on obgsglobalconnect.com.au.
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Built with integrity As a young boy playing with his dad’s tools in the garage, Andrew Briggs (OB 1977) discovered a love of building and working with his hands. He certainly never dreamed of a corporate life. “I was always an outdoor person,” he says. As fate would have it, after four years of work, Andrew was seated behind a desk and he has been behind one ever since. As managing director of Buxton Construction, his passion is to build a successful construction company. Since joining the management team in 1994, Andrew has helped the business grow from A$2 million to more than A$100 million in annual turnover. It’s been a gradual growth, in keeping with Andrew’s key philosophy: a focus on trust and integrity. The level of personalised service,
L-R Andrew Briggs; Andrew with son Will (OB 2008) who also works in the business; the christening of the Andrew Briggs boat
Andrew says, is crucial to Buxton’s reputation.
doing things at a sustainable pace, he hires right.
“Our philosophy is oldfashioned. It’s like an old family-style business. It’s more collaborative, working as a team, trying to get every stakeholder involved, so that everybody has ownership.
“The business plan was kept very simple,” he says. “It was to do two projects worth more than A$50 million each, four projects between A$30 and A$50 million, and four up to A$30 million, with the lower limit being set around the A$10 million mark.
We work on the principles of trust, honesty and integrity. We’ve also got a superb reputation for delivering quality”. So how does Andrew manage to maintain this level of service while on a large growth trajectory? As well as
At some time, we’ll review that, probably in another two or three years. First, we’ll make sure that we’ve met our objectives, and then we’ll move the goal posts.” Excerpt from CEO Australia magazine AUTUMN 2020
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Top chef What does three tonnes of hummus look like? Chef Charlie Carrington (OB 2011) found out over the two weeks as he ran a pop-up version of his local Israeli restaurant, Lomah, at the Australian Open. “I reckon we’ll need that much hummus, plus two or three tonnes of salad,” he said. “I’ve ordered 10,000 pitas.” Carrington’s humungous hummus effort was part of the Best of Victoria offering at Grand Slam Oval, alongside other Melbourne dining favourites. The chef fed 20,000 people over 14 days. “The sheer volume is full on and crazy,” he said.
Old Boy visitors welcome Whether you live overseas, interstate, or around the corner, you are always welcome to drop in or make a time to visit your old school. We love showing Old Boys around.
Doug Rowston
Tom Chen, Jack and Veronica Chen
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It was great to have school friends Jack Chen and Tom Chen (both OB 2000) drop in to BGS for a look around. Tom is based in Melbourne and Jack brought his new bride Veronica to visit from Taiwan on their honeymoon. Both boys were very impressed with the School’s facilities and programs. Doug Rowston (OB 1959) also came to visit from Adelaide. It’s 61 years since he was at BGS so there were quite a few changes to take in.
Nick’s gift to BGS Nick Nimorakiotakis
Nick Nimorakiotakis (OB 2013) is an old boy on the move. Starting his BGS journey in Year 1 way back in 2002, Nick’s teachers quickly discovered that he had a gift for anything related to computers. It wasn’t surprising to any of them that Nick would end up excelling in this area once completing his formal studies. Nick studied Electrical Engineering at Monash University, graduating with honours, and for the past three years has been working in The University of Melbourne’s Department of Infrastructure Engineering. In this role, Nick developed an impressive augmented reality experience for the university that featured on Channel 7 News, and that is when his old school became aware of his extraordinary talents. Nick was approached by the School to build an augmented reality experience for a new building development at BGS. Nick refused to accept payment, preferring this to be his gift to the School. Nick stated recently, “I had an awesome time at BGS and this is my way of thanking the School for the 12 amazing years I spent there.” Given Nick’s skills, it’s no surprise that he has recently accepted a position at Amazon headquarters in the USA as a software development engineer. We will be watching Nick’s progress closely and thank him for his impressive gift to BGS.
The augmented reality experience
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BGS Generations Photograph It is a wonderful tradition to send your son to your old school.
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Generations on show
A special event for the Generations families of Brighton Grammar School and the OBGS was held on Friday 14 February 2020. Generations families were invited to watch the BGS First XI v MGS on the Crowther for the afternoon, but unfortunately the game was rained out. Despite this, nearly 100 current students and Old Boys arrived at 6.00pm at the Atrium to take part in the 2020 BGS Generations photo and all received a special BGS Generations Family pin. BGS Generations includes current students and Old Boys who are sons or grandsons (maternal or paternal) of Old Boys and Old Boys whose son and/ or grandson attended or currently attends Brighton Grammar School.
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Award winning dancer Congratulations to Marcus Morelli (OB 2012) on taking home his second Telstra Ballet Dancer People’s Choice Award. “Marcus has taken on 2019 head first and never looked back. His determination and commitment to dance has seen him excel in multiple principal roles through the year and it was evident the audience always felt the same way about his talent as we do. His athletic, authentic and expansive performances are something special to behold and he has an extremely bright ballet career ahead of him.”- David McAllister, Australian Ballet Artistic Director.
Marcus Morelli
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Dylan is ace Congratulations to Dylan Alcott (OB 2008) on winning his sixth Australian Open tennis title, an extraordinary achievement. As well, Dylan donated an incredible $40,000 to people with a disability who have been affected by Australia’s bushfire crisis.
Off to the kennel Congratulations to 2019 BGS AFL Co-Captain, Louis Butler, on being drafted to the Western Bulldogs at pick 53 in the 2019 AFL Draft. It is a lifelong dream come true for Louis and we look forward to watching his career unfold at The Kennel. BGS Director of Sport and OBGS President Tim Marshall (OB 2000) is looking proud as punch, as are we.
Louis Butler and Tim Marshall
Up and coming driver Last year saw Nic Carroll (OB 2017) compete in Kumho Tyre Super 3 Series, which runs alongside the Virgin Australia Supercar Championship. Super 3 is formally seen as an official development category for Australia’s top up-and-coming drivers. The series consists of ex V8 Supercars Holden and Ford cars, all on slicks and 620HP. Nic’s team had a strong year in the category with race podiums and great car
Nic Carroll
speed. Unfortunately, they had a few mechanical issues with engine misfires and tyre blowouts which spoiled their championship hopes. Overall Nic’s debut season in a V8 Supercar was a huge learning curve, full of development and has put him
in good stead for this year. The Adelaide Superloop 500 in February was Nic’s first race for the year. Round 1 of the 2020 National Trans Am Series was completed in February and Nick finished 2nd for the round and 2nd in the championship. AUTUMN 2020
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Artic travels “Our crossing from Kangerlussuag in Greenland was very interesting. We managed to get through, not like the expedition last year, travelling by ship to small Inuit villages and following some of the history of the early explorers like Franklin and Parry. Crossing from Greenland to Baffin Island and through the Arctic Archipelago to the most isolated places and villages with a few hundred people in very basic housing, but all happy and lots of kids. It’s a long winter up there.
Across the top of Canada looking for Polar Bears through the ice and made a few sightings, some right beside the ship, great to see. After 21 days we were out of the passage and into the Beaufort Sea and along the top of Alaska to the Bearing Strait stopping at small villages and finally finishing at Nome. We seem to like cold climate travelling as this was our third time to the Arctic and we have done Antarctica as well”. Russell Dennett OB 1963
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I do, I do, I do, I do, I do! Tim Barnes (OB 2006) began his career as a Marriage Celebrant in 2017 when he oversaw the wedding of close friend James Ward (OB 2005). Since then he has had the pleasure of marrying many Brighton Grammar couples including Anthony Calder (OB 2006), Matthew Burge (OB 2005), his brother Sam Barnes (OB 2003) and Nick Graham-Bowman (OB 2006). Leaning on a strong drama background from his time at the School, Tim loves the process of designing and executing unique ceremonies as the business grows.
Tim, centre, at the wedding of Nick Graham-Bowman.
Weddings Dean Gibson (OB 2005) married Gabby Shepherd on Friday 25 October 2019 at Potters Receptions, Warrandyte. Old Boys in attendance were: Casper Janholt (OB 2005), Phil Janholt (OB 2005), Tom Rehder (OB 2005), Trent Cramer (OB 2006) (Bridal party), Andrew Biggin (OB 1969), father of the groom Allen Gibson (OB 1968), uncle of the groom Barrie Gibson (OB 1967) and Allen’s cousin Richard Turpin (OB 1978). AUTUMN 2020
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Old boys soccer team The year 2019 was a major one for the Old Boys soccer team. After disappointment in 2018, the Tonners celebrated their 20th anniversary with a League promotion while the East Brighton United FC and Hampton Juniors SC merged and the Hampton East Brighton Football Club (HEBFC) was born. The season started strongly as the Tonners were able to maintain the State League 4 undefeated streak that they had held since Round 8 of 2018. Bolstered by a number of key additions to the squad, the Seniors went on to achieve promotion to State League 3 as undefeated premiers. The strong work ethic of not only the players but also Head Coach, Brandon Galgano, and President, Aaron Jones, carried the 60
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Tonners through to victory. Goalkeeping Coach, Marshal Sayer (OB 2001), Reserves Coach, Willy Schizas, and Assistant Coach, Michael Afanassiev (OB 2013), also provided support. A pivotal moment was the decision to move one of the key signings, Mackie Simmons (OB 2009) from centre-back to centre-forward. It allowed Fin Olsen (OB 2016) to work together with Nikolas Robers (OB 2013) to create opportunities for Mackie who ended the season with 18 goals to his name. The Reserves also went on to become premiers. They relied on stalwart defenders Thomas Robers (OB 2011) and James Coburn (OB 2009), and benefitted from the stamina of Ben Cruse (OB 2018). Between the goalposts, veteran keeper Michael Kourkoulis (OB 2006) provided safe hands for both
State champions
the Reserves and, at times, the Seniors. The Seniors were then given the opportunity to defeat the State League 4 premiers from other regions and become the SL4 State Champions. The Tonners secured the State Championship and roundedout the perfect season. With the new season on the horizon, HEBFC is preparing for State League 3. We welcome both current students and Old Boys of all levels to come down and trial for our Seniors, Reserves, Thirds or Junior teams. For information on trials, visit the Hampton East Brighton FC Facebook page or send an email to ebufc1999@gmail.com. Michael Afanassiev OB 2013
Old Brighton Grammarians’ Football Club The year 2019 was another successful one for the OBGFC, both on and off the field. The Seniors, under the continued guidance of Coach Greg Hutchison, secured our position in the William Buck Premier division for a third consecutive year, only narrowly missing out on finals by two points. The Under 19 and Women’s teams both made grand final appearances, the Reserves had a hugely improved campaign thanks to a host of young talent coming through, and the reintroduction of a Thirds side saw us field five teams for the first time in the club’s history. Best & Fairest Awards 2019 Seniors: Nick Pavlou (OB 2015) Reserves: Charlie Hicks (OB 2017) Thirds: Thomas Burns (OB 2016) Women’s: Siena Visentini Under 19’s: Finn Campigli (OB 2017) Seniors Leading Goalkicker: Will Lewis (OB 2017)
The success of the BGS to OBGFC pathway was as evident as ever in 2019. Wherever you looked, there were the stars who graced the Crowther Oval only a few short years ago, including many from the famous 2014-2016 Threepeat Premiership triumph of the APS. Tom Fisher (OB 2014), Harry Hill (OB 2015), Elliot Le Grice (OB 2013) and Nick Pavlou (OB 2015) were all selected in the Senior Big V representative team, with the latter three also selected in the VAFA team of the year. Will Lewis (OB 2017) topped the League’s goal kicking tally for most of the year, before a back injury towards the end of the season. Under 19s Co-Captain, Mitch Hughes (OB 2017) won the League Best & Fairest Award on the back of his outstanding season in the ruck. Old Boys, Tom Gunning (200 games), Michael Karayannis (150 games) and Ben Jakobi (100 games) all reached significant milestones in 2019. We congratulate them for their long service to the club.
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Hamish crowned the VAFA’s rising star Hamish Dick (OB 2018) became our third winner of the VAFA Rising Star Award in just four years, following on from previous winners Harry Hill (OB 2015) and Anthony Zimmerman (OB 2017). Hamish started the year in the Under 19s, before being elevated to the Seniors. He was also selected in the Under 19s Big V side.
Women’s footy continues to thrive at OBFC Since entering the inaugural VAFA women’s competition in 2017, our Women’s team has gone from strength to strength under the leadership of Peter Grant (OB 1977) and Andrew Grant (1982). Following a debut finals appearance in 2018, last year the girls made it through to the Grand Final. Cat O’Brien was selected to represent the Women’s Big V side, and Siena Visentini took out the League’s Best & Fairest Award. It is with great excitement that we announce Old Brighton will now field two women’s teams in 2020. This is a massive step forward for our women’s football program and leverages on the progress that we have made in recent years. It also means that in 2020, Old Brighton will field a club-record six teams! With record involvement from our players and a team of 62
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Old Brighton Football Club Women’s team celebrate
100 plus volunteers, there has never been a better time to be involved in our wonderful, community club. To keep up to date with all things Old Brighton, check out our award-winning social media accounts @OldBrightonFC or visit obgfc.com.au and sign up to our newsletter. Alex Karanicolas Communications Manager, Old Brighton FC
OBGS running club Whether you are a serious athlete or just trying to keep fit, come and join the OBGS Running Club. As part of APSOC (Associated Public Schools Old Collegians Amateur Athletic Association) you can enjoy up to 12 crosscountry and road races in and around Melbourne (from 3km to 21km) during the winter season (April to September). Runners of all ages and abilities are welcome. APSOC race fields include athletes aged from under 10 to over
70 years of age. The OBGS Running Club welcomes Old Boys, mums, dads, girls, boys, friends and family.
by friendly social interaction among club members, has now endured for more than 80 years.
Member clubs host the events in the APSOC series. This highly popular tradition of keen competition, followed
Contact President Paul Barton 0418 140 992 or check out our Facebook page for more information.
Honouring John Shields – Old Boy and tonner athlete John Shields finished at Brighton Grammar in 1906. In his final year here, he was Captain of Athletics, Captain of Football and Captain of Cricket. John was a champion sportsman, not only at BGS but more broadly. In 1906, has was recognised as the Champion Schoolboy Athlete of Victoria where he was awarded a blue cap by the Victorian Amateur Athletic Association.
Headmaster Ross Featherston, Andrea Bramwell President of BGSAC and Meg Adem TiC of Athletics (2019).
John Shield’s family donated the cap to the School at the end of 2018. The BGS Athletics Club (parents committee), led by 2019 President Andrea Bramwell, organised for the cap to be framed and presented in a special box. The 115 year old cap is now on display at Secondary School reception at the St Andrew’s end. AUTUMN 2020
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FROM THE ARCHIVES
Cricket 100 years on
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The 1920 Grammarian featured the First XI of that year. On 23 February 2020, our current First XI played an Old Boys’ team in the annual Toms-McPhee Cup on the Crowther. Last year, the schoolboys won by one run and this year the Old Boys exacted their revenge after a hard fought match.
Top Enders 1955 Old Boys L-R Michael Blackett, Chris Wilson, Stephen Tanner, Graeme Disney and John Taubman enjoyed an impromptu year level reunion at the final 2019 Top Enders lunch last November.
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50 years on Classes of 1969 and earlier 01 The 50 years on group 02 Lyndon Arnold (OB 1964), Simon Potter (OB 1964), Alan Stanley (OB 1961), Robin Wischusen (OB 1961) 03 Andrew Biggin (OB 1969) and Tim Marshall 04 Gary Simmons (OB 1967), Paul Clark (OB 1969), Barny Dale (OB 1962), Michael Wood (OB 1964) 05 Colin Mews (OB 1950), Bob McLellan (OB 1954), Tony Morgan (OB 1955), David Singleton (OB 1952), George Thomson (OB 1951) 06 Ian Paroissien (OB 1969) and Tim Marshall 07 Tim Marshall and Peter Fleming (OB 1955) 66
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20 Year Reunion Class of 1999
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01 The school tour in the Wellbeing Centre 02 Andy Morley, Sam van der Griend 03 James Dobie, Jason Brooks, Ben Tranter 04 Nic Sparrow, Ben Avremides, Ben Titshall, Jamie Lansdown, Jason Mead 05 Scott Briggs, Adam Mason-Jefferies, Peter Angelini 06 Tim Weeks, Monty Stephens, David Mence 07 James Badger, Travis Finlayson, Peter Toms 08 The 1999 group
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10 Year Reunion Class of 2009 The 10 year reunion welcomed back over 40 Old Boys who toured the School’s new facilities first. It was a great night enjoyed by all in the new Annandale Pavilion. 01 The 2009 group 02 L-R Kyle Buntz, Hugh Osbourne, Alexander Dick, Alistair Johnson, Ajay Rewal 03 L-R Yang Liu, Jenks Guo, Patrick Haddon, Hemant Agarwal, Duy Nguyen, Gi Tae Kwon 04 L-R Alex Knight, Clark Irwin, Brad Page, Matt McDonald
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OBGS 2020 Calendar of Events REUNION
DATE
Pendennis Chapter 60 Years On Reunion
Wednesday 12 February 2020
Inaugural All Generations Event
Friday 14 February 2020
Top Enders Harry Zachariah Cricket Lunch
Friday 13 March 2020
Meliora Club Dinner
Tuesday 17 March 2020
Class of 1980 40 Year Reunion
Friday 20 March 2020
Anzac Day Service
Wednesday 22 April 2020
Class of 1995 25 Year Reunion
Friday 1 May 2020
Class of 1975 45 Year Reunion
Friday 15 May 2020
Class of 1985 35 Year Reunion
Friday 22 May 2020
OBGS AGM and Past Presidents Dinner
Tuesday 26 May 2020
Top Enders’ Term 2 Lunch
Friday 29 May 2020
Class of 1970 50 Year Reunion
Friday 12 June 2020
Class of 1990 30 Year Reunion
Friday 17 July 2020
Class of 2015 5 Year Reunion
Friday 31 July 2020
Class of 2005 15 Year Reunion
Friday 14 August 2020
Top Enders’ Term 3 Lunch
Friday 28 August 2020
Class of 2010 10 Year Reunion
Friday 4 September 2020
Class of 2000 20 Year Reunion
Friday 16 October 2020
50 Years On Lunch
Friday 23 October 2020
Class of 2019 1 Year Reunion
Friday 20 November 2020
Top Enders’ Term 4 Lunch
Friday 27 November 2020
Business and sporting events will be added throughout the year. To be the first to know, make sure we have your email address. Email obgs@brightongrammar. vic.edu.au if you don’t currently receive our emails. 72
AUTUMN 2020
78th BGS
Past Mothers’ Celebration The BGS Parents’ Group warmly invites Past Mothers to
High Tea on
Thursday 28 May 2020 at 12:00 noon in The Robert Sanderson Centenary Hall Senior School, Outer Crescent enter via St Andrews St gate Brighton Cost $40 per person RSVP by Friday 22 May 2020 BOOKING ONLINE www.trybooking.com/BIKPU CREDIT CARD Call Emily on (03) 8591 2271
t 03 8591 2200 w www.brightongrammar.vic.edu.au CRICOS Provider No. 00132K ABN 61 004 117 668
AUTUMN 2020
Brighton Grammar School 90 Outer Crescent Brighton VIC 3186 Australia
MELIORA SEQUAMUR LET US KEEP PURSUING BETTER THINGS BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL COMMUNITY JOURNAL
Be part of it