BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL COMMUNITY
KEEP
LET US
PURSUING BETTER THINGS
JOURNAL
EDITOR
Emily Beaton
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
Alex Syrian & Emily Ianuali
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Michele Fisher
OBGS CONTRIBUTOR
Kate Birrell
obgs@brightongrammar.vic.edu.au
PRINTER
Finsbury Green
PRINT REGISTRATION
Registered by Australia
Post: 100001167
AUTUMN 2023
HEADMASTER WELCOME
OUR FOCUS FOR 2023 IS DIRECTED TOWARD FOUR KEY AREAS, ALL REPRESENTED IN THIS EDITION OF MELIORA SEQUAMUR:
Academic engagement is first among equals and we want every student from ELC to VCE to achieve their absolute potential, supported by our evidence-based teaching and learning practices.
We are establishing a highperformance culture in all areas of student life, evidenced by the exceptional VCE results achieved by the Class of 2022.
Ongoing teacher development is integral to each boy’s success in 2023 and beyond and we are committed to our expert staff professional learning, training and coaching programs.
We will continue to develop and share the work we have undertaken in Positive Masculinity, ensuring we raise boys with both backbone and heart.
Ross Featherston Headmaster
2 AUTUMN 2023
AUTUMN 2023 3
OUTSTANDING VCE RESULTS
THE 2022
VCE RESULTS
OF BRIGHTON
their teachers and support from their families’, he said.
GRAMMAR SCHOOL STUDENTS
REFLECT THE SCHOOL’S DRIVE FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND HIGH PERFORMANCE IN ALL AREAS OF STUDENT LIFE.
In an outstanding year for BGS, Dux Jerry Chen received the highest possible ATAR of 99.95. He also achieved a perfect study score of 50 (EAL), to match the top study score of 50 he achieved last year. Two other students achieved perfect study scores of 50.
Headmaster Ross Featherston said he was extremely proud that almost half of the VCE cohort recorded an ATAR of 90 or above, and 60% achieved ATARs over 85 and 71% attained ATARs over 80.
‘These results are the product of our students’ hard work and commitment to high achievement, in collaboration with
‘I am exceptionally proud of the efforts of all our VCE students, including those who chose an unscored VCE, as they have developed into well rounded and resilient individuals.’
‘They have held leadership roles, played sport, performed music and drama and undertaken community service activities. These experiences have enhanced their academic success and hopefully will set them up to have successful and happy lives.’
High achievers from the 2022 graduating class were celebrated at the Scholars’ Assembly in February and they are also featured on the Wall of Scholars honour board in the Hancock Wing.
4 AUTUMN 2023
MEET OUR 2022 DUX JERRY CHEN
From joining BGS in Year 7, Jerry obtained numerous distinctions, prizes and awards in Mathematics, Languages and Sciences and received Full Colours – Academic.
Jerry participated in Music ensembles and bands to achieve Half Colours – Music and played Basketball and Tennis.
At Speech Night, he was awarded The English as an Additional Language Prize, The Norman F Perrier Memorial Prize for Physics, The R W Tovell Memorial Prize for Specialist Mathematics and The Algorithmics (HESS) Prize.
Jerry achieved a perfect study score of 50 for Chinese Second Language Advanced in Year 11 and received a Premier’s VCE Award for excellence. He recorded another perfect score for English (EAL) in Year 12 and attained a perfect ATAR of 99.95, one of only 39 VCE students to achieve this. Jerry is undertaking a Bachelor of Science and then plans to study a Master of Engineering.
2022 High achievers at the Scholars’ Assembly
AUTUMN 2023 5
Dux Jerry Chen
STUDENT LEADERSHIP
INTRODUCING OUR STUDENT CAPTAINS FOR 2023.
James Clarkson – Captain of School
James walked through the BGS gates in 2018 as a Year 7 student and quickly embraced all on offer. James has been involved in OELP, Frankston Camp, Choir, Year 6 Student Leadership Program, the Monash Scholars Program, Maths tutoring (Year 9 and 10s) Urwin Centre tuck shop duty, Year 7 Transition Program, Student Council, Equality and Diversity Group as well as being a Year 8 Urwin Centre Leader and contributing to Football, Touch Football and Athletics.
James has well-developed leadership and interpersonal skills which will ensure that he is able to connect and communicate with fellow students. With exemplary effort in each and every subject, his academics are the first among equals.
James leads culture, standards and vision for the Prefect Body, Year 12s and all students.
Brayden Hope – Vice-Captain of School
Brayden joined BGS in Year 6 in 2017. Brayden aims to contribute to the School as much as he can. He has already shown this commitment in his many contributions such as attending Frankston Camp from Year 8 onward, participating in multiple Connor’s Runs and representing his House at every opportunity. Brayden also participated in OELP, where he made meaningful relationships with many Year 7 students, and is a role model to them at School.
Brayden supports James in leading culture, standards and vision for the Prefect body, Year 12s and all students in 2023.
George Keenan, Junior School Captain
Barnaby Heath, Junior School Vice-Captain
Brayden Hope, Vice-Captain of School
6 AUTUMN 2023
James Clarkson, Captain of School
POSITIVE BEGINNINGS
Our students couldn’t help but start the year on a positive note when they were greeted by Deputy Headmaster, Head of Junior School Peter Tellefson and Deputy Headmaster, Head of Secondary School Simon Angus at the beginning of term.
START OF THE NEW YEAR
AUTUMN 2023 7
EXCEPTIONAL STAFF
The annual Reward and Recognition awards are one way that staff are acknowledged for going above and beyond in their roles and adopting the School’s values.
Staff nominate their colleagues and a number of team and individual awards were presented at the 2022 staff day, including our Tier 1 Casa Viejo Award winners below.
Emily Ianuali, Development Office Manager, was acknowledged for her innovative and diligent approach to tasks which significantly and positively impacted outcomes during 2022.
James Harrod, Secondary School Teacher, was recognised for his commitment to the life of a BGS student, through the relationships developed as Head of Rofe House and as the TIC of Cricket and First XI Cricket coach.
Melissa Faulkner, Secondary School Languages Teacher, received her award for her support, leadership in training (both at Secondary and Junior School) and her positive attitude with the Schoolbox rollout, all key to its smooth implementation.
Liz Dendrinos, ELC Teacher, was recognised for her exceptional leadership through the fostering of a positive culture and professional learning environment, delivering opportunities for mentorship of teachers and extending each boy to achieve his potential.
AT BRIGHTON GRAMMAR, WE ARE COMMITTED TO THE PROFESSIONAL GROWTH OF OUR STAFF AS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT MODELS TO STUDENTS THAT LEARNING IS AN ONGOING PROCESS AND PROMOTES THE CULTURE OF HIGH PERFORMANCE.
Emily Ianuali
James Harrod
Liz Dendrinos 8 AUTUMN 2023
Melissa Faulkner
FAREWELL & THANK YOU MARTIN GREEN
MARTIN JOINED THE STAFF IN 1994
AS A WOODCRAFT TEACHER AND WAS A MENTOR TO GENERATIONS OF STUDENTS AS THEY FOLLOWED A PATHWAY INTO THEIR CARPENTRY TRADE OR BUILDING CAREER.
A passionate teacher, his main focus was on building relationships, guiding students and passing on skills and problem-solving techniques in the Woodcraft area. Martin would go above and beyond to help Year 12 students complete their projects on time.
As Head of Faculty, Director of Resources he had a long and productive involvement in the Creative Arts program. He also made positive impacts in the academic, sporting and pastoral areas.
Martin was a respected Athletics sprints coach, a dedicated coach of both the Long and Triple Jump and Cricket coach, a keen attendee of many Outdoor Education camps and programs and a regular contributor to the School over the years with building projects.
We wish Martin well in his retirement.
AUTUMN 2023 9
STAND BESIDE
IT IS TRADITIONAL FOR BRIGHTON GRAMMAR YEAR 12S TO BEGIN THEIR YEAR WITH THE BIG FELLA CAMP.
The intention is to complement the physical challenge of hiking Mt Bogong with the mental challenge of goalsetting for the year ahead; approaches to learning, challenge, relationships and creativity are discussed and explored.
Due to a landslide, the 2023 BGS Year 12 cohort climbed Mt Feathertop, Victoria’s second highest mountain. Each house group hiked as one, spending time together on the summit, visualising the important year ahead.
Led ably by School Captain James Clarkson, Vice-Captain Brayden Hope and the other Prefects, the cohort agreed to stand beside their fellow Tonners.
The 2023 Year 12 cohort is shaping as the most inclusive yet, so it was fitting that every student participated in Chantology on the final night, arms around each other and singing the School song.
With the most important year of their academic lives to date, this cohort plans to approach their challenges together.
James Dann Head of Student Leadership
10 AUTUMN 2023
+M IN ACTION
POSITIVE MASCULINITY AND WELLBEING ARE INTRINSICALLY LINKED IN OUR SCHOOL LIFE EMPOWERING STUDENTS TO BE AUTHENTIC, CONNECTED AND MOTIVATED.
The overarching Positive Masculinity framework encompasses academic, co-curricular and pastoral care programs which offer students wellbeing, stress management, personal development and self-health practices.
While there are explicit examples of positive masculinity in action through an evidence-informed curriculum and activities such as mentoring, peer-topeer coaching and outdoor education programs, it is also evident implicitly in the boys’ daily interactions as they develop a base of understanding about the values, behaviours and skills that support positive masculinity. Read more on our website:
AUTUMN 2023 11
FOOD TECH HAS LAUNCHED AT BGS
IN A FIRST FOR BRIGHTON GRAMMAR, YEAR 7 AND 8 STUDENTS ARE HONING THEIR COOKING SKILLS WITH FOOD TECHNOLOGY CLASSES BEING OFFERED IN THE RECENTLY OPENED BHIVE.
The new program has the boys learning key life skills of kitchen safety, food preparation and cooking in the well-appointed Grill’d Kitchen.
According to Head of Year 7 Tim Marshall, who is heading up the 10 week course, the classes are encouraging an interest in food and nutrition, including making smarter food choices, amongst the boys.
‘The course has been designed to ignite a passion for food and cooking and the boys
have embraced the program wholeheartedly. Interest is high amongst other year levels as well.’
Students, parents and staff have all benefitted from the boys’ culinary skills. Pikelets were on the menu recently with freshly made berry coulis and banana smoothies and wood-fired pizza have been on offer after school. There are regular coffee mornings for staff and parents.
Barista and RSA courses are also being run in the Grill’d Kitchen for older students and members of our community.
12 AUTUMN 2023
AUTUMN 2023 13
NEW CENTRE COMES TO LIFE
WE ARE DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE THAT CONSTRUCTION HAS COMMENCED ON OUR NEW CENTRE FOR SCIENCE, CREATIVITY AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP.
This purpose-built facility will be a hub of innovation and learning, delivering flexible teaching and learning spaces in the key areas of creative arts, design, technology and science.
After seven years of research and planning, and working closely with St Andrew’s Church, the School has partnered with architectural firm, Architectus, project managers, Ontoit and builders Vaughan Constructions
to bring to life the most significant infrastructure project in the School’s 141 year history.
We can't wait for our first cohort of boys to experience the incredible learning opportunities that our Centre for Science, Creativity and Entrepreneurship will enable.
With an expected completion date of two years from now, we'll be sure to keep our community updated along the way.
Get ready for a future filled with innovation and creativity at Brighton Grammar School!
John Phillips Director of Advancement
14 AUTUMN 2023
AUTUMN 2023 15
YEAR 12 LEGACY
EVERY YEAR, THE YEAR 12 COHORT COLLECTIVELY CREATES A THEME FOR THEIR FINAL YEAR.
It targets an issue that we believe can be improved across BGS. In 2023, our legacy is to stand beside.
To stand beside means to be there for your fellow tonner. Through this legacy, we aim to foster an environment of inclusion and support.
When we stand together, we become a force to be reckoned with. We can achieve things that we never thought possible and overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable.
In 2023, stand beside aims to largely focus on chantology. Aiming to get down and support all sports and co-curricular activities, whilst also introducing new standards and traditions.
The legacy of stand beside is not just about words, it’s about actions … the small things that we can do every day, like lending a helping hand, listening to someone’s story, or standing up for what is right. It is about being there for each other.
The Year 12 cohort has collectively created a series of action statements that we believe can be followed to stand beside one another.
• We will provide encouragement and honour all sports and co-curricular activities, engaging in activities that allow all boys to feel supported
• We will be willing to have open conversations with other tonners and provide necessary resources so that they can feel assured during hardship
• We will accept boys for their differences and have conversations with those who struggle to accept their differences
• We will respect the history and meaning of the School song
• We will take the time to absorb feedback from staff and peers regarding behaviour, actions or during general conversation
• We will encourage positivity and creativity, so tonners are motivated to become the best version of themselves
Alone we can do so little, but together we can achieve the impossible and leave behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Brayden Hope Vice-Captain of School
16 AUTUMN 2023
THE CASE OF THE MISSING CANNON
AT THE END OF OUR 140TH YEAR, A MYSTERY ALMOST AS OLD AS THE SCHOOL WAS SOLVED.
After an initial search, irrigation technicians digging along the Crowther Oval perimeter came across a part of the captured Ottoman cannon gifted to the school by the Australian government after World War 1.
Missing for a long time, it appears the cannon was disassembled, before being buried as landfill on the oval.
Only one piece has been found to date, with the discovery of the recoil barrel, but it has captured the imagination and interest of students.
Although it could be viewed as a relic, worn out and discarded part of history, the cannon holds a particular significance for the School community.
It is believed to have been captured in Damascus by the legendary Australian Light Horse Brigade commandeered by an Old Boy of the School, Brigadier General William Grant (OB 1889).
AUTUMN 2023 17
View Channel 9 News segment here:
WELCOME TO OUR NEW CHAPLAIN
Rev Waterhouse grew up on a semi-rural property in the Macarthur region in the south-west of Sydney and studied sport and health education at Wollongong University.
Growing up as one of four boys, and experiencing an all-boys Anglican education, Rev Waterhouse always knew he would seek placement in an all-boys Anglican school and is enjoying immersing himself in the spiritual life of Brighton Grammar.
‘If there is one word that would aptly summarise my approach to school ministry, it is the word incarnational.’
‘I am passionate about sport, musical performance and outdoor education, and so I always seek ways to be involved in the wider curricular life of the school and incorporate the lessons learned through those pursuits into my pastoral conversations, classroom teaching and chapel talks.’
He then taught sport, health, and biblical studies at the local Anglican school before moving to Melbourne in 2007 with his wife Joanne (now the College Chaplain at Methodist Ladies’ College in Kew) to complete theological training at Ridley College in Parkville.
Rev Waterhouse was ordained in the Melbourne Anglican Diocese and then served as the Curate at St. Mark’s Camberwell before taking up the role of Chaplain at Hume Anglican Grammar in 2014.
His choice of Bible verse for school students is Ecclesiastes 12:1 – ‘Remember your Creator in the days of your youth’ and a favourite adage is: ‘Jesus doesn’t promise a smooth flight, but he does promise a safe landing.’
OUR NEW SECONDARY SCHOOL CHAPLAIN, REVEREND PETER WATERHOUSE HAS BEEN FORMALLY WELCOMED AND COMMISSIONED.
18 AUTUMN 2023
International Parents Support Group
CELEBRATING THE NEW YEAR
AN IPSG MORNING TEA WAS HELD IN FEBRUARY TO MARK THE LUNAR NEW YEAR AND CELEBRATE THE START OF THE 2023 IN A VERY POSITIVE WAY.
Parents and friends were treated to a music performance from talented BGS students and the 2022 Dux of BGS, Jerry Chen, talked about his Year 12 experience, recommending parents support their sons to embrace all opportunities that the School offers.
国际学生家长服务处
AUTUMN 2023 19
A COACHING CULTURE
AT BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL
OUR COACHING CULTURE IS AN INTEGRAL PART OF OUR SUCCESS.
Many know coaching as a fundamental element in sport and as a high impact form of staff development but coaching is part of the BGS way of being.
As a school, we have been successfully engaged in adult coaching with teaching staff for many years. Coaching, however, is not just for the staff. Secondary students regularly engage in a coaching dialogue with their house tutors around their learning.
Coaching is an opportunity for a student to build his independence and direct his own life. The process of coaching is designed to promote self-empowerment in students, as well as improve academic performance and develop resilience. It involves a structured conversation to help a student reflect, set goals, solve problems and plan the next steps.
Some Year 5 and all Year 6 students are also given an opportunity to work with a trained Year 10 or Year 11 student coach to set personal goals, develop strategies, deal with obstacles and establish better habits.
Year 10 students are offered an elective that trains them in leadership and basic coaching and Year 11 students have an
opportunity to volunteer to coach a younger student.
The volunteers are provided with more advanced coaching lessons which guide them through the coaching process from the perspective of both the coach and the coachee. The skills developed through both training programs include building rapport; empowering self-reflection; questioning, and importantly effective listening.
The older students use their coaching knowledge and experience to guide a younger boy through a period in his final years in Junior School. Year 5 and Year 6 boys become more comfortable across the program with being coached, receiving feedback and engaging in conversations about their learning and progress.
The younger students develop positive relationships with their Secondary School role models and look up to them for guidance. They build an ability to set achievable goals, measure their progress, and reflect on the effectiveness of the strategies they implement.
The skills learned by Year 10 and 11 boys are applied beyond the coaching experience to student leadership programs, building peer relationships, captaining sporting teams and through improved communication with others in life beyond the school gates.
Brent Brickhill Instructional Coach & Student Coaching
20 AUTUMN 2023
AUTUMN 2023 21
THE YEAR 10 AWAKE PROGRAM IS DESIGNED TO SUPPORT THE STUDENTS TO BUILD DEEPER CONNECTIONS, REFLECT AND LEARN NEW SKILLS TO HELP REGULATE THEIR EMOTIONS AND BEHAVIOURS.
Awake marks a new phase in the Capstone program, as a lead up to First Horizon when we challenge our Year 10 students to build a deeper connection to who they are and begin to consider who they want to become.
This four day wellness experience focuses on developing new ways for the boys to tune in to themselves and build awareness of their surroundings, their emotions, their needs, and of things that might be holding them back. It’s about learning how to respond thoughtfully, rather than reacting to our emotions.
Students set up basecamp in the Alpine meadows near Mt Hotham and then choose their own individual campsites nearby, a quiet place in the mountains to consider the new experiences, to journal and to reflect.
Facilitated by a team of professionals with a range of different skills and experiences, boys are guided through a variety of practices and taught some new skills they can use in their daily lives.
The sessions included meditation, sound healing, breathing techniques, yoga, art therapy and journaling practices. At the end of each day, young Old Boys (+M facilitators) hold a safe space for the Year 10s to reflect on their experiences so far, on who they are now and who they want to become.
James Hilditch Cultural Development Coordinator
AWAKE
22 AUTUMN 2023
SUSTAINABILITY
OUTDOOR ED LEADS THE WAY IN CREATING SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS.
Outdoor Education Staff Carly West and Bianca Bell recently presented at the National Outdoor Education Conference exploring Brighton Grammar’s Outdoor Ed sustainability and waste management journey. The dynamic duo shared the systems and practices implemented on Brighton Grammar’s programs, whilst continuing to host thousands of students in the great outdoors.
Together with other schools and companies from across Australia, Carly and Bianca facilitated a workshop to collaborate on ideas and future initiatives to continue to make a positive impact on our environment.
AUTUMN 2023 23
ELC ACHIEVES TOP RATING
THE PETER TOMS’ EARLY LEARNING CENTRE IS LEADING THE WAY IN EARLY YEARS EDUCATION FOR BOYS.
The ELC has been awarded the highest possible rating of exceeding in all quality areas in the national ELC frameworks accreditation.
Life in the ELC is busy. As well as regular visits from Year 4 buddies, the curriculum extends to learning beyond the ELC gates.
The weekly Library program involves walking past the Junior School Prep classrooms and the office of our Head of Junior School and Deputy Headmaster, Peter Tellefson. Although a simple practice, it is the highlight of the boys’ week as they wave to students and look for that validation and acknowledgment from Junior School staff, reinforcing the message that each and every one of them is valued and important.
A walk over to the Secondary School, and Laboratory Manager Jane Nurton
introduces the boys to complex scientific concepts and terminology, including how static electricity and electrical charges can bend water and how opposite magnetic poles are attracted to each other, while the same poles repel.
They tangibly test out their inquiries, helping to facilitate their emerging autonomy as independent learners full of curiosity, commitment and enthusiasm.
Being part of a single campus school and engaging with the wider Brighton Grammar community provides our youngest boys with fantastic opportunities to develop their curiosities whilst also instilling an ongoing enthusiasm for learning.
It gives ELC4 students the opportunity to build a sense of security with the greater BGS community, which will support them as they transition into Prep and beyond.
Liz Dendrinos ELC Assistant Director
24 AUTUMN 2023
HITTING THE RIGHT NOTE
Showcasing the creative collaboration and skills of our musicians and vocalists through our various ensembles, bands and choirs across the School.
AUTUMN 2023 25
MENTOR MAGIC
IDESIGN
BGS INDIGENOUS SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS
HAVE HAD A MENTORING DAY WITH AJ FROM GIRRAWAY GANYI AND AUNTY KAREN.
Together with BGS Indigenous Mentor Katie Bugden, they were taught Wayapa, a meditative dance to connect to the elements and to give thanks to country.
The students also worked with kangaroo pelts and created their own designs.
Thank you to AJ and Aunty Karen for sharing their knowledge and wisdom with the boys.
Bianca Li-Rosi Indigenous Academic Program Coordinator
THE ANNUAL IDESIGN
CHALLENGE ENCOURAGES YEAR 8 STUDENTS TO DEVELOP 21ST CENTURY SKILLS.
Students learn how to collaborate, network, be resilient in their approach and agile in their thinking, problem find and problem solve –all the qualities they will need to prepare them for the jobs of the future.
The overall winner of iDesign 2022 was Nate Watson with his Full Circle entry and runner-up was Baxter Alderson with his Driveway Assist project, both pictured above.
26 AUTUMN 2023
MAKING CONNECTIONS
JOINT ACTIVITIES BETWEEN BRIGHTON GRAMMAR AND FIRBANK
GRAMMAR STUDENTS ARE A GREAT WAY TO PROMOTE FRIENDSHIPS AND DEVELOP POSITIVE AND RESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS.
This year Secondary School students across a number of year levels have come together for lunches, trivia afternoons and personal development sessions.
Swap days are held between the schools in Years 7 and 8, providing students with an opportunity to experience school life in another setting and learn from each other in an engaging environment.
PARENT PROGRAM
THE ON-SITE CROWTHER PARENT PROGRAM IS BACK.
In the first interactive on-site parent workshop of the year, Dr Ray Swann explained our Effective Learner Model and what we can do as parents to support the learning of our children.
Based on the best available research about how people learn, our Effective Learner Model (ELM) helps our students become more academically engaged and more capable of learning effectively.
AUTUMN 2023 27
TEAMWORK IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS
Pictured above:
Head of Physics Christopher Dale and Lachlan Connell (BGS staff 2022) ran in the 2022 State Championships and won gold in the 4x1500m with teammates including Stewart McSweyn (holder of both the national 1500m and 3000m records).
Proving that teamwork and determination can lead to success, a group of BGS staff recently competed in the Melbourne Teams Corporate Triathlon in Elwood.
Christian Machar, Reverend Peter Waterhouse, Dr Ray Swann, Darcie Clarke, Kristy Bjarnelind and Katie Bugden demonstrated the power of working together to reach their goals, setting an example for others to follow.
28 AUTUMN 2023
A LEARNING CULTURE
A TOTAL OF 150 TEACHERS FROM ALL OVER THE COUNTRY CONVERGED ON BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL.
They were here for a full day instructional coaching intensive, run by The Crowther Centre in collaboration with Steplab, a UK organisation working with over 100,000 teachers to improve teaching and learning.
Dr Mark Dowley and Ollie Lovel were joined by Steplab co-founder Josh Goodrich, and Director of Learning Peps Mccrea to deliver training that several participants remarked was the best professional development that they had ever attended.
The intensive also strengthened partnerships between Brighton Grammar and Steplab, as well as other leaders in the education space such as LaTrobe University, Mastery Schools Australia, Challis Community Primary School, The Centre for Independent Studies, and
Catholic Education Canberra Goulburn and their Catalyst program. It was a fantastic way to both share knowledge, and showcase the cutting edge Instructional Coaching taking place at BGS.
This modelling of openness to learning forms the foundation of the open to learning culture that we have at BGS and is the bedrock of our world-class coaching program.
Oliver Lovell Secondary Teacher | Senior Researcher
AUTUMN 2023 29
SPORTING NEWS
RUGBY
Congratulations to Xander Iosefo (Year 12), Finn Mackay (Year 10 2022), Thomas Louw, (Year 10 2022) and JoJo Vela (Year 11) who represented the Melbourne Rebels U16 team against the ACT Brumbies in Albury and in the national U16 rugby union tournament late last year.
TOUCH FOOTBALL
A number of Secondary School students competed for the Victorian Storm Representative team at an U14, U16 and U18 level at the 2022 National Youth Championships in Queensland.The U16 team reached the quarter finals for the first time and the U18 team defeated a Queensland side for the first time.From left are Joseph Vela (Year 11), Finn Mackay (Year 10 2022), Finley Ward (Year 10), Harry George (Year 11), Caelan Mackay (Year 8 2022), Thomas Louw (Year 10 2022), Josh Carr (Year 11) and Hamish Ward (Year 8).
SOCCER
Year 9 student Tom Hara represented Victoria in the U14 team at the 2022 National Youth Soccer Championships that took place in Coffs Harbour.
Tom trained with the First XI Soccer squad in the 2022 season while in Year 8 and was a member of the BGS+ U13 Futsal team that went to the Gold Coast last year as well as being a U14 team member.
30 AUTUMN 2023
BASEBALL
Ryan Williams (Year 12) and Ty Daniels (Year 10) were both selected to represent Victoria at the 2023 Australian Youth Baseball Championships tournament held in Sydney.The top 20 Under 18 (Ryan) and Under 16 (Ty) baseball players were chosen from each state to compete and Ryan and Ty were both integral members of their respective Victorian teams which finished the tournament with bronze medals.
TENNIS
Year 8 student Lachie King is marking his mark in the sport of Tennis. Lachie plays in the number one position for the BGS First VIII Tennis Team and has been undefeated during the season at the time of writing.
He competed in two ITF Tournaments in Singapore in February and has been selected to play in the U14 Wimbledon event in June, due to his performances in the national grass court event.
GOLF
Golfer Rupert Toomey (Year 10) continues to be in top form and has claimed two junior golf championship titles this year.
Rupert won the Junior division at the TPS Victoria Golf Championships at Rosebud after a three way playoff in late January. Earlier that month he won the boys’ division at the Tasmanian Junior Masters with a total of 5 under par over the 72 holes led to a 3 shot victory.
AUTUMN 2023 31
SUCCESS ON THE ATHS TRACK
NEW PERSONAL BESTS AND AUSTRALIAN RECORDS WERE ACHIEVED IN FEBRUARY BY BGS STUDENTS IN TRACK AND FIELD.
The boys were participating in the 2023 U14 – U18 Victorian Track and Field Championships at Lakeside. Congratulations to Arki Butler (Year 9) who came first in U16 High Jump, and Leo Reeve (Year 9) who set a new Australian record in P17 1500m, first in P17 800m and first in P17 400m.
32 AUTUMN 2023
Leo Reeve and Arki Butler
DESERVING AWARD
FORMER BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL COUNCIL MEMBER FRANK LYNCH HAS BEEN RECOGNISED FOR HIS SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY AND LAW.
He was awarded a medal of the order of Australia (OAM) in the 2022 Queen’s Birthday honours list.
Frank received his award from the Governor of Victoria the Hon Linda Dessau AC CVO at Government House in Melbourne late last year. He was proudly supported by his wife Maggie Lynch OAM, coordinator of Brighton Grammar’s International Parents’ Support Group, and sons, from left, Adrian (OB 1994), Simon (OB 1993) and Andrew (OB 2007).
AUTUMN 2023 33
EXPLORING THE WORLD OF THEATRE
THE RECENT PERFORMING ARTS TOUR TO ENGLAND AND FRANCE PROVIDED STUDENTS WITH AN ENRICHING TWOWEEK PROGRAM OF STAGE SHOWS AND WORKSHOPS WITH INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS.
On the West End, the boys were lucky enough to see the new musical Back to the Future: The Musical as well as the outrageous, The Book of Mormon. They also saw Henry V at the Globe Theatre and a show at The Moulin Rouge in Paris. Seeing shows in London and Paris, from differing time periods and styles of performances, gave students insight into the diversity that exists in the world of theatre. To further support this learning, the boys participated in a range of workshops focusing on playbuilding, improvisation, musical theatre and even stage combat.
This second international tour was a highly enriching experience and a great way for the boys to bond over their love of the performing arts.
Michael Kent Head of Drama and School Productions (7-12)
34 AUTUMN 2023
NEW LATIN HONOUR BOARD
Vires Acquirit Eundo
She Gathers Strength As She Goes, the motto of the city of Melbourne, taken from the words of the esteemed Roman poet Virgil, aptly describes Latin studies here at BGS. Virgil also penned the School’s motto: Meliora Sequamur.
An Honour Board has been created to record, each year, the highest Study Score achieved in VCE Latin. Its gilded letters laud prestigious scholars including Ian Tongs (OB 2016), David Lawlor (OB 2017), Kosta Arvanitakis and Michael Dean (OB 2018), David Li (OB 2019), Jaikob Akinci (OB 2020), Charlie Catt (OB 2021) and Thomas Galinas (OB 2022).
Latin is a relentlessly challenging subject that demands a great deal from our students: independent study skills from a very early age, discipline, mental gymnastics, problem-solving and exceptional long-term memory all the way from Year 7 right through to Year 12. Yet, despite these seemingly unappealing
attributes, coupled by its anachronous reputation as a dead language, increasing numbers of BGS boys are braving this rigorous subject, with 2022 boasting the largest Year 12 Latin class in the School’s history.
Numbers are equally promising in Year 7 and Year 8. Tonners are not afraid to Fight the Good Fight and this also translates to our students’ willingness to take on academic challenges.
Many BGS parents and students realise that Latin is, in fact, an immortal language and is the study of grammar in its purest form, with invaluable benefits to literacy. The fact that Latin is no longer spoken has paradoxically brought about its immortality, for, unlike its modern descendants, this language is no longer changed or simplified, neither does it continually evolve as modern languages inevitably do.
Constancy is its greatest advantage. Besides the intellectual challenge of Latin, students are drawn to the stories, myths and connections they can make to politics, cultural artefacts, the law, scientific nomenclature and vocabulary, all of which form the foundations of the Western tradition.
BGS HAS PROVEN ITSELF TO BE AN INSTITUTION OF EXCELLENCE NOT ONLY IN INNOVATION BUT ALSO AS A CUSTODIAN OF TRADITION.
AUTUMN 2023 35
Three entrepreneurship subjects are now part of the School’s curriculum - iDesign which takes place over three terms in Year 8, WeDesign, a week-long Year 9 intensive course and Year 9 Entrepreneurship which is a semester-long elective.
The F1 in Schools and Creative Design and Technology programs also adopt the design thinking approaches that entrepreneurship provides. The recently opened BHIVE building and soon to be constructed Centre for Science, Creativity and Entrepreneurship are also dedicated spaces for this forward thinking.
‘We are teaching students to collaborate, network and problem solve. They learn there is no such thing as a bad idea and all the skills they are developing are transferable’ says Jamie Watson.
The School’s entrepreneurship subjects engage students across a wide range of
strengths, weaknesses and skills.
‘We also emphasise the importance of feedback and students learn to listen to their teammates, as well as to go out and seek feedback from the public on their ideas,’ Jamie said.
The next step will be supporting students to turn their ideas into realworld businesses. ‘We would like to scaffold our students to go through their own start-up process if they wish, nurturing their ideas right the way through to market.
‘It would be great for students to be able to pitch to investors for start-up funding, and perhaps invite entrepreneurs in our Old Boys’ network to be mentors. I see that as a good way to bridge the gap between Year 9 and tertiary education, which exists because VCE doesn’t currently accommodate entrepreneurship.’
36 AUTUMN 2023
TWO MORE CHAMPIONS FI IN SCHOOLS
BRIGHTON GRAMMAR HAS CONTINUED ITS SUCCESS AT STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS.
BGS teams recently competed in the 2022/23 F1 in Schoools State Championships held at Wyndham Tech.
Approximately 30 teams from around the state attended the event with a range of events for each team such as car scrutineering, engineering presentations, marketing and verbal team presentations plus the physical car racing where the cars speed down the 25m track in 1.1 seconds.
We had 2 teams entered this year with Year 8 team Lunar in the Development Class and Year 10 team Phantom in the Senior Professional Class.
With our success earlier in the year at the 2021/22 National Finals the pressure was on and the new boys were pumped for another tough week of competition.
Both teams performed amazingly well under pressure and both have managed to qualify for the 2023 F1 in Schools National Finals in Sydney in March.
If they can finish in the top 2 at that event they could be joining Constellation and Livewire from BGS at the Combined World Finals for 2022/23 in Singapore in September 2023.
Both new teams were consistent across the 12 judging categories and each managed to win awards in a number of categories.
Well done to both teams on a great result following months and months of hard work and dedication.
Also a big thanks to our National Champions Constellation Racing for helping on each day running the track for the event.
Jenson Galvin, James Mitchell, James Tan and Matthew Westerman did the School proud as ambassadors at the event and have done a fantastic job mentoring Lunar and Phantom throughout the year.
A massive thanks to Jamie Watson and Thivi Athipar for their dedication to the program. Thanks must also be given to REA for running another amazing competition.
AUTUMN 2023 37
Court of Companions
The Court of Companions commemorates those members of staff who, by their devotion and longterm service, have contributed significantly to the advancement of Brighton Grammar School.
CELEBRATING OUR STAFF
Headmaster Ross Featherston presented new members, Lynn Bullock, Monica Le Couteur, Tim Marshall, David Nixon and Raelene Plozza with their Court of Companions certificates.
Our new members have made, and are continuing to make, a significant contribution to the education of our boys.
Lynn Bullock is currently Junior School Administration Coordinator and carries out her various administrative tasks with distinction as well as supporting Deputy Headmaster and Head of Junior School, Peter Tellefson.
Monica Le Couteur fulfilled several coordinator roles in the Junior School, completed a Masters of Education in Student Wellbeing, and presently is the Coordinator of Growth and Wellbeing.
Tim Marshall’s roles have included coordinating Year 7 and Year 8, BGS Director of Football, Frankston Camp Coordinator, and in 2022 Tim deputised for Kate Birrell as Alumni Manager.
David Nixon has taught Year 12 English and English Literature, as well as secondary history and geography, and was Teacher in Charge of the Student Council.
FIFTY MEMBERS OF THE COURT OF COMPANIONS AND THEIR GUESTS ATTENDED OUR 2022 EVENT IN THE NEWLY REFURBISHED BHIVE BUILDING WHERE FIVE NEW MEMBERS WERE WELCOMED.
38 AUTUMN 2023
Raelene Plozza, after initially teaching in the Junior School, completed a Masters in Literacy, was appointed Head of Literacy from ELC through to Year 12 and presently is Director of Instructional Coaching, combining this with teaching English in the Secondary School.
Council Chairman, Peter Ickeringill, expressed the School’s appreciation for the outstanding contribution of our BGS Staff in providing a first-class education for our boys and expressed his personal gratitude for the splendid education his boys experienced at BGS.
The Chairman emphasised that this annual function is one that he looks forward to as it gives him the opportunity to personally thank our long-serving members of staff. Peter Toms thanked Peter for his ongoing support of the Court of Companions.
Peter Toms paid tribute to Mrs Phyl Hannaford, a member of the Court of Companions, who retired in 2009 after being a key member of the Senior School Office. Phyl passed away early in 2022, a much-loved member of the Administrative Staff as reflected by the number of her former BGS colleagues who attended her funeral at St Peter and Paul’s Bentleigh. We will miss Phyl.
During the evening, Tim Marshall led a tour of the ground level kitchen facilities with the 12 fully equipped cooking stations. In 2023 Year 7 and Year 8 boys are
studying Food Technology and undergo practical cooking lessons which links strongly to our positive masculinity programs.with past and current staff.
AUTUMN 2023 39
Old Boys
IT’S GOOD TO BE BACK
After a year relished on maternity leave, it’s great to be back in the chair, and re-join such a welcoming community. I am grateful to the fabulous team who took over in my absence, especially Tim Marshall, who was well and truly in the hot seat with a very busy year for the OBGS including not only the usual reunion schedule, but the Hall of Fame as well!
2023 is off to a wonderful start with some of our favourite events already held. On 15 February, the Pendennis Chapter joined our Founders Day Chapel service. This is always such a special event. Old Boys who left school over 60 years ago, join current students in St Andrew’s for this historical service honouring the founding of our School.
On 17 February the traditional Top Enders Harry Zachariah lunch took place and, despite the cricket being delayed due to the heat, the guests very much enjoyed a meal together, looking out over their beloved Crowther Oval, and a presentation by our Director of Sport Jack Joslin. Our Top Enders couldn’t believe how many sports are now offered compared to ‘back in their day’. Guests also included the Captain of BGS’ very first APS Cricket team in 1959, Peter Fergus (OB 1960).
And finally, on 24 February, our BGS ‘Generations’ photograph took place in the Quadrangle. Blessed with beautiful weather, we welcomed over 220 current
students with their Old Boy fathers and grandfathers for this special event. It’s lovely to see the pride and pleasure Old Boys have when their sons follow in their footsteps.
I look forward to a year of bringing more Old Boys, young and old, together in a myriad of formats for their benefit and enjoyment.
Kate Birrell Alumni & Community Mananger
NEWS
40 AUTUMN 2023
FROM THE OBGS PRESIDENT
2022 PROVED TO BE AN EXCELLENT YEAR FOR THE OBGS.
Freed from the constraints of lockdowns, reunions were well attended with the new BHIVE space which opened in late 2022 providing another venue for alumni activities, including a double header reunion with the 5 year and 30 year cohorts hosted at Annandale and the BHIVE respectively.
Highlights for the year included having a BGS Old Boy, Dylan Alcott (OB 2008) named Australian of the Year, the Hall of Fame Dinner held at Old Boy Greg Carns’ (OB 1976) spectacular Quatt Quatta function centre and the wonderful final series performance by the OBGFC in VAFA Premier Grade under the leadership of
Woodrow Medallist and Captain Harry Hill (OB 2015).
Our School is certainly flying high and the OBGS committee is always looking for ways to engage with other Old Boys. With a number of Old Boys covering broad age groups expressing an interest in joining the OBGS committee, I am sure that 2023 will present a number of opportunities for Old Boys to remain connected to the School and more importantly engage with each other.
I look forward to catching up with as many as possible whether at reunions, school or sporting events or in any informal context. All the best for 2023.
Go Tonners!
Michael Osborne (OB 1995) OBGS President
AUTUMN 2023 41
TIM BIGGIN (OB 2008)
Tim Biggin (OB 2008, centre) married Anna Foster (centre) at Lizard Point, Cornwall UK on 2 July 2022. Pictured wedding guests include Jane Biggin (Firbank 2006, 2nd from left), Nick Biggin (OB 1996, 3rd from left), Josh Bucknall (OB 2006, 4th from right) and Dylan Alcott (OB 2008, front and centre as usual). Proud Dad Andrew Biggin (OB 1969) was also in attendance.
ALEX JACKSON (OB 2007)
Alex Jackson (OB 2007) and his partner, Lucy, recently celebrated the birth of their beautiful daughter, Stevie Claire Jackson.
In 2022 Alex marked 10 years teaching at Albert Park College. As Year 12 Coordinator, Alex has enjoyed developing programs on respectful relationships along with providing his students with strategies to deal with issues around consent.
For the past few years Alex has taught VCE and IB Biology as well as Maths and Science to Year 7 to Year 10. Alex thoroughly enjoys his teaching and with Lucy’s support they both look forward to the joys of nurturing Stevie.
42 AUTUMN 2023
DAVID LLOYD (OB 1971)
Well-established Mornington Peninsula winery and vineyard Eldridge Estate has been sold by its founder David Lloyd (OB 1971), who has retired with his wife Carol to Tasmania.
David has survived two bouts of cancer in recent years, and after more than 27 years running Eldridge Estate has decided it’s time to rest up. He will continue winemaking in a small way with Tasmanian pinot noir, in a project with Michael Twelftree of Two Hands Wines.
“In February Carol and I purchased a beautiful home on a hectare of native bush in Dodges Ferry where we decided to retire to.” remarked David.
In the move to Tasmania David found an ancient Brighton Grammarian, Vol XX, No 2 dated August 1929 and in it is an article written by his late father, Ronald Davis Lloyd, titled, A Market Scene, signed Dlanor D Dyoll which as you can see is his name backwards.
AUTUMN 2023 43
HARD WORK LEADS TO SUCCESS
WE ARE THRILLED TO CONGRATULATE TOMMY SMITH (OB 2020), WHO WILL MAKE HIS FORMULA 3 DEBUT WITH VAN AMERSFOORT RACING, A DUTCH RACING TEAM, IN THE 2023 SEASON.
Tommy, who recently scored his first win at Spa-Francorchamps in his debut season in the GB3 Championship, had his first taste of F3 machinery during preseason testing in February 2023.
Smith began his single-seater career at 15 in the 2017-18 New Zealand Formula 1600 Championship, progressing up to the Australian F4 Championship in 2018. He gained further experience in both the 2019 Toyota Racing Series and the F3 Asian Championship before dovetailing a full season in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine with a three-round appearance in the GB3 Championship. In the 2022 season, he achieved 18 points-scoring finishes in 24 races, including one victory and a podium finish.
Van Amersfoort CEO Rob Niessink expressed excitement about having Smith as part of their driver lineup, citing his positive attitude and eagerness to learn as strengths that will help him quickly adapt to the FIA F3 Championship. Smith said he was thrilled about the opportunity and believed it was the right move after racing in both FRECA and GB3 championships. Good luck Tommy!
44 AUTUMN 2023
AUTUMN 2023 45
CLASS OF ‘74 RECONNECTS
EACH OTHER.
Six to eight members of the class decided to gather every Thursday for a walk somewhere around Bayside, Melbourne. This tradition started when one member fell ill during the pandemic, and the group wanted to help him stay active. The walks have since become a regular event, with up to 15 members attending on occasion.
Once a month, the group also meets for lunch. What's remarkable is that even classmates from the Prep year of 1961 have attended these gatherings. In fact, nine members from this year have made an appearance so far, with another set to join soon.
It's interesting to note that only 12-13 students from the Prep class continued on to Year 12. However, that hasn't stopped them from reconnecting decades later and sharing stories about their lives.
As numbers continue to grow and more memories are shared, the members would like to extend the invitation to any other Old Boys who would like to join. They can contact Nik Wallis on 0438 461 936.
THE PANDEMIC BROUGHT ABOUT MANY CHANGES IN OUR LIVES, INCLUDING HOW WE CONNECT WITH OTHERS. FOR THE CLASS OF ‘74, IT MEANT FINDING NEW WAYS TO STAY IN TOUCH AND SUPPORT
46 AUTUMN 2023
TOP AFL PICKS
TWO OLD BOYS WERE SELECTED IN THE 2022 AFL NATIONAL DRAFT.
Congratulations to Will Ashcroft (OB 2021) on being selected as Pick #2. Will was drafted to the Brisbane Lions under the AFL’s father-son rule, following in father Marcus’ footsteps having played 318 games for the Lions.
Will co-captained the BGS First XVIII in 2021 and was awarded the Harry Zachariah Best & Fairest Trophy. With BGS close to his heart, Will returned in 2022 to coach and mentor the Year 7 Football squad.
Cam Mackenzie (OB 2022) was selected by Hawthorn as Pick #7 which completed a stunning journey for Cam that included selection in the 2022 AFL Under 18 All-Australian team.
After six brilliant years on the Crowther Oval, it was fitting that he ended his time at BGS as a Premiership ViceCaptain and First XVIII Best & Fairest winner. Cam is also a BGS Scholar – one of the top-scoring VCE students for 2022.
AUTUMN 2023 47
A WINDOW INTO TIMES GONE BY
EIGHTY YEARS
AGO, DON
MARIAGER
(OB 1943) WALKED THE HALLS OF BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL.
It's always a delight to hear from Old Boys about their time at BGS, especially when it dates back so far. Don has gone above and beyond in sharing his memories by writing his life story! Here's a fascinating excerpt from the Life Story of Don Mariager:
In 1943 my father had a relatively good harvest and prices were good, so after due enquiry it was decided to enrol me at the Brighton Grammar School in Melbourne, where I would be attending as a boarder.
At 7.00 am we arrived at Spencer Street, 18 hours after leaving the small Murrayville station.
We caught the electric suburban train, which took us to Brighton. Mum escorted me with my case to the School, an imposing structure with its clock tower, to meet the Headmaster. His name was Canon Wilson. He reassured my mother that I would be well looked after, and after seeing me to my dormitory, she left for the long return journey to the farm.
I had never been so lonely and deserted in all my life. During the night when things had quietened down I could hear the electric trains rattling along the track and many was the time when I had the urge to escape from my confined quarters and ‘jump the rattler’ for the freedom of the outside world. In spite of this, I persevered, and in retrospect I had quite a
successful year at the boarding school, and am now very grateful for the opportunity they gave me.
On the sporting arenas, even though I had no specialist coaching up to this stage, I excelled on the athletic field and became the school-jumping champion and took part in the School’s First XVIII in Football, and in the Senior Cricket XI. I had the honour to represent the school at the Associated Grammar Schools’ Sports at Olympic Park in 1943 in both high and long jump. As a consequence, I received my School Colours at a presentation at the end of the year.
I enjoyed my lectures, which were delivered by gowned masters, except for French. After learning this language by phonetics I could not understand the old master as he prattled on endlessly.
Meals at the boarding school were very repetitious, especially the tripe which was served up to us by the table head each Sunday evening. I have never eaten the stuff since.
At the end of each school term the time could not come quickly enough when I would catch the 7.00p.m. Mildura Express from No. 1 platform for my return home for the holidays. Next day Dad would be waiting for me at the Murrayville station, and in about half an hour we would be driving up the lane to once again enjoy the comforts of home. Although we did not have the comforts of city life such as electricity and fast transport and had to put up with shortages because of the war, we were happy with our lot.
When the term holiday was over I would set out on the return journey to my boarding school, usually with one of Mum’s fruit cakes hidden among my belongings. You can imagine how long this lasted when my boarding mates discovered my possession!
48 AUTUMN 2023
AUTUMN 2023 49
ERIK PURCELL (OB 2015)
public open space for the community to enjoy. Within a month or so, this petition gained over 700 signatures. The Bayside community embraced outdoor dining with fervour.
Bayside Council is seeking community feedback on the idea of partially closing Melrose Street to increase public open spaces as part of improving public health and addressing climate change.
Erik has also been working closely with members of the Sandringham Traders Association about an exciting new prospect called "Village Zero." The vision behind this project is to transform Sandringham into a best practice and sustainable precinct where we can reduce environmental impact on local shopping strips mitigating climate change effects.
SIDEBAR, A WINE BAR AND STORE LOCATED IN MELROSE STREET, SANDRINGHAM, WAS OPENED
BY ERIK PURCELL (OB 2015) IN 2018.
Due to the pandemic, Erik had to adapt his business to a post-Covid landscape. The government at state and local levels accommodated an expansion of outdoor dining and public open space. Erik pushed for increased outdoor dining and public open space in Bayside, which assisted hospitality venues in recuperating lost funds due to the lockdowns in 2020/21. This decision not only benefited Erik's business but also neighbouring businesses with increased foot traffic.
Erik petitioned Bayside Council to entertain the possibility of closing Melrose Street, creating
Sandringham is their pilot program; initiatives include storing and consuming locally produced renewable energy, creating affordable practices for businesses to act more sustainably, educating businesses on sustainability practices, and creating green spaces for members of the community.
50 AUTUMN 2023
AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS
THIS YEAR WE CELEBRATE FOUR OLD BOYS RECOGNISED FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS.
Three were appointed Members of the Order of Australia AM, and one Military Award - Bar to the Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC and Bar). We congratulate:
Associate Professor Peter Downie AM (OB 1974) for significant service to paediatric oncology, to teaching, and to research.
Ian Riseley AM (OB 1963) for significant service to Rotary International in executive roles.
Dr Alfred Zerfas AM (OB 1952) for significant service to international community health and nutrition as an epidemiologist.
Colonel John Papalitsas CSC and Bar (OB 1994) for outstanding achievement as the Commanding Officer of the North West Mobile Force and as the inaugural Commander of the Regional Force Surveillance Group.
AUTUMN 2023 51
OLD BRIGHTON GRAMMARIANS FOOTBALL CLUB
THE OLD BRIGHTON GRAMMARIANS
FOOTBALL CLUB HAD A FANTASTIC YEAR HIGHLIGHTED BY OUR SENIOR MEN’S AND UNDER 19S SIDES PLAYING OFF IN THE PREMIER (A GRADE) GRAND FINAL
Old Brighton has been the beneficiary of a brilliant generation of BGS Footballers in recent years, including members of the APS Premiership teams of 2014, 2015 and 2016. We have a core group of young players who have played a lot of Football together.
The club is exceptionally well led by Captain Harry Hill (OB 2015), who had his best season in an already historic career. Harry won the
club’s first ever Woodrow Medal, was named Captain of the VAFA Team of the Year and picked up his fourth club Best and Fairest in just six seasons. Harry joins Andrew Pryor (OB 1985) and our Women’s Captain India Tait (Firbank 2015) as the only four time Best and Fairest winners of the Club.
Training over summer has been at a high level, with the group energised by newly appointed Senior Coach Dan Donati. Numbers have been strong, boosted with the returning U19s and the BGS Class of 2022, including members of the APS Premiership side.
The senior leaders for 2023 are Harry Hill, India Tait and Cat O’Brien returning as Captains of our Men’s
52 AUTUMN 2023
and Women’s sides. Tom Fisher and Mike Karayannis also return as Vice Captains.
I would encourage the BGS community to come to Brighton Beach Oval this season to support the players and be part of the club. The club website has details of all matches and events.
Finally, a special thank you and farewell to Greg Hutchison who coached the club for the last eight seasons – the longest serving coach in the club’s history.
Tom Clarke (OB 2005) OBGFC President
2022 A Grade Grand Final side:
Felix Flockhart (OB 2019), Alfie Jarnestrom (OB 2017), Hamish Dick (OB 2018), Max Kennedy, Quintin Montanaro (OB 2016), Tom Yorgey (OB 2017), Tom Fisher (OB 2014), Tom Blamires (OB 2021), Andy Doyle, Finn Campigli (OB 2020), Anthony Zimmerman (OB 2017), Oscar Lewis (OB 2019), Jandre Olivier (OB 2015), Darby Hipwell (OB 2021), Fraser Gregson (OB 2016), Sam Collins, Jordan Segar (OB 2021), Edward Tait (OB 2014), Harry Hill (OB 2015), Michael Karayannis (OB 2010), Max Lohan (OB 2016).
AUTUMN 2023 53
OLD BOYS SOCCER TEAM HEBFC
THE OLD BOYS SOCCER TEAM, HAMPTON EAST BRIGHTON FOOTBALL CLUB
(HEBFC) HAD A RETURN TO A FULL SEASON OF COMPETITIVE SPORT TO REMEMBER IN 2022.
The team won the State League 3 (SL3) South East title and SL3 Grand Final double for the first time in the club’s history.
Following two incomplete seasons, the Tonners secured technically back to back league titles and promotions following SL4 Victory in 2019.
The season itself could only be described as a roller coaster, with
injuries and players unavailable, resulting in a total of 47 players in the senior squad that won the division, including a number of Old Boys.
The victory is the third league title in four full seasons under coach Brandon Galgano and his coaching staff since taking over the club in 2017.
The 2022 season went down to the wire. There was a tight run home and Tonners managed to secure the championship on the final day of the season through a 1-0 win, with the winning goal scored by Nikolas Robers (OB 2013).
The Tonners then went into the SL3 Grand Final against North West champions Westvale. Finley Olsen (OB 2016) and Mackie Simmons (OB 2009) combined in the first half to score, with the Tonners winning 1-0 and securing the double.
54 AUTUMN 2023
The promotion means the club has now climbed to State League 2 South East for the first time in its history for season 2023. HEBFC is now the highest ranked Bayside club (apart from Port Melbourne and Beaumaris) and the highest within the Men’s State League structure.
This victory was highlighted by the efforts of Old Boys and current Years 11 and 12 students who combined APS school and club commitments to assist in securing the title. They included
Oliver Holland (OB 2022 and 2022 Captain of the First XI), Cail Thomson (OB 2022), Matthew Cruse (Year 12 2023), Stanley Chen (OB 2022), Sebastian Madeira (Year 12 2023), Thomas Bailey (OB 2022) and Zack Bogoevski (OB 2022).
The 2022 First XI coach and BGS teacher Kogulan Sabratanam also played a huge role in assisting the transition of current
BGS first team players into senior football with HEBFC.
Old Boys who played a part in the 2022 Mens Premiership side included, Mackie Simmons (OB 2009, 2022 Equal club Best and Fairest winner), Nikolas Robers (OB 2013, who played his 100th club match during the 2022 season), Finley Olsen (OB 2016), Thomas Robers (OB 2011), Christian Smak (OB 2009), Nikola Savage Brajdic (OB 2012), and Marshal Sayer (GK Coach, OB 2001).
AUTUMN 2023 55
Michael Afanassiev (OB 2013)
GEORGE VAN DEVENTER (OB 2000)
FROM PITCHER PARTNERS TO PICTURE PERFECT TAS.
In January 2020, George Van Deventer (OB 2000) embarked on a career break from wealth management at Pitcher Partners Investment Service and sailed to Tasmania on his newly purchased yacht. Plans to sail to the Whitsundays in April were then rudely thwarted by COVID-19, leading to an extended stay in Tasmania.
George fell in love with the area, resigned from his job and founded Tours Around Tasmania. The company offers immersive tours that cater to guests’ interests through partnerships with subject matter experts, including ecologists, geologists, historians or astronomers.
The company has gone from strength to strength, named as a finalist in the 2021 Tasmanian Tourism Awards, and is embedded in the tourism scene in Tasmania. They now focus on highend private tours while still operating some larger volume tours as well. On some days when not meeting clients, George runs the business from his boat anchored off Bruny Island.
56 AUTUMN 2023
NICK BUSIETTA (OB 1997)
LIMINAL VR, A LEADING VIRTUAL REALITY COMPANY, DEVELOPED AN INTERACTIVE HERITAGE EXPERIENCE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY AND A NOT-FORPROFIT CALLED THE FRIENDS OF THE CERBERUS. THE EXPERIENCE RECREATES THE HISTORIC HMVS CERBERUS FROM THE 1870S – NOW SHIPWRECKED IN BLACK ROCK.
Liminal’s Co-Founder and Managing Director, Nick Busietta, is an 1997 Old Boy and Brightonian who started at BGS from Kindergarten all the way up to Year 12. Knowing that the Year 10 boys study Cerberus, Nick invited Matthew Wardell’s Visual Communication and Design class to try the experience and explore the ship from a unique and immersive perspective.
The boys worked their way through various scenes aboard the shipshovelling coal, manning the wheel, and meeting some of the crewmen. It was a fantastic experience that the boys thoroughly enjoyed and only one of many other innovative products developed by Liminal. As a dedicated VR company with a dedicated team of neuroscientists and psychologists, Liminal specialises in an impressive
range of experiences, from soft skills training and immersive marketing to their flagship product, the Liminal Platform - an engaging tool for improving wellbeing.
Thank you to Nick for this incredible opportunity. We look forward to seeing what’s next from Liminal!
AUTUMN 2023 57
DOUG WARBRICK (OB 1968)
BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL RECENTLY RECEIVED A SURPRISE
DELIVERY FROM ONE OF ITS HALL OF FAMERS, DOUG WARBRICK (OB 1968)
Doug, who co-founded the iconic surf brand Rip Curl back in the 1960s, has generously loaned one of his prototype surfboards to the School. Doug’s board, along with a more recent Ripcurl board signed by surfing legend, Mick Fanning, is now on display in a prominent position in the BHIVE.
Doug’s success story is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard
.
work, determination, and innovation. By displaying his prototype surfboard, we hope to inspire our students to dream big and pursue their passions with the same drive and commitment that made Warbrick such a success.
The School is grateful for this loan from one of our esteemed Old Boys and looks forward to continuing to use it as a source of inspiration for our students for many years to come.
58 AUTUMN 2023
THOMAS GALINAS (OB 2022)
Encore! Congratulations to Thomas Galinas (OB 2022) who was at Top Class 2023! Every year the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority’s Top Class conducts a number of concerts to celebrate outstanding performing arts students from the previous VCE year in Music, Dance and Drama and Theatre. Thomas performed at the Malthouse Theatre in March in a fantastic finale to his brilliant performance career at BGS, and hopefully a launching pad for much more. Bravo.
THREE GENERATIONS OF DIXON HOUSE
In addition to the whole group photo, the Generations morning also provides the opportunity for special family pictures like this one, featuring three generations of Templeton men.
Graeme Templeton (OB 1961), James Templeton (OB 1987) and William Templeton (Year 11), all Dixon house boys, enjoyed continuing the BGS tradition!
AUTUMN 2023 59
2023 BGS GENERATIONS PHOTOGRAPH
IT IS A WONDERFUL TRADITION TO SEND YOUR SON TO YOUR OLD SCHOOL.
60 AUTUMN 2023
This year we chose to celebrate the BGS Generations with a photograph of all current students who are sons or grandsons of Old Boys, together with their Old Boy forebears.
The result was a magnificent photograph of over 220 Generations members taken under our beautiful Oak tree, followed by breakfast in the Quad.
There will be more Generations events to celebrate this great tradition.
AUTUMN 2023 61
The fifth round of inductions into our BGS Hall of Fame, established in 2008, occurred at a Gala Dinner held at Quat Quatta Receptions on Tuesday, 8 November 2022.
Nineteen Old Boys were inducted into the Hall of Fame on this occasion, three as Young Achievers.
Attendees were left in awe as the achievements of these remarkable Old Boys were shared throughout the evening. From doctors to business leaders, entrepreneurs to sporting champions, their paths are diverse but all are truly successful.
Please read their stories.
62 AUTUMN 2023
BRIGHTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Chris Banks AM
(OB 1956) HOF Inductee
After graduating from Brighton Grammar School in 1956, Chris Banks AM joined AV Jennings Construction as an office boy before moving to Perth to establish the AV Jennings Housing Division at just 23.
He was later appointed General Manager of the AV Jennings Housing and Land Group, and in 1981 was appointed the youngest Executive Director of Jennings Industries.
The Federal Government appointed him as Chair of the Joint Venture for more Affordable Housing in 1985 and as Managing Director of the Delfin Property Group, led the Company to become Australia’s most respected Community Developer.
In 2005 he was appointed Inaugural Chair of the Victorian Planning Authority, overseeing the orderly planning and design of Melbourne’s new suburbs, a position he would hold for the next 10 years.
Charlie Carrington
(OB 2011) Young Achiever
Charlie Carrington left school at the age of 15 to pursue his dream of becoming a chef. By the time he was 21, he’d worked at a Gordon Ramsay Michelin-starred restaurant along with some of Australia’s best including Vue de Monde in Melbourne and Marque and Firedoor in Sydney. His thirst for travel during this time also took him to work in kitchens across the globe.
At just 22, Charlie opened his own restaurant, Atlas Dining, inspired by his travel experiences. In its first year Atlas received one hat from The Age Good Food Guide, with Charlie being the youngest chef ever to achieve this honour.
In more recent times Charlie, together with brother Ben, have established themselves as key players in Australia’s thriving subscription food box market, with Atlas Weekly now delivering on more than 2000 orders a week.
AUTUMN 2023 63
Simon Crowe
(OB 1990) HOF Inductee
Simon Crowe knew from an early age that he would run his own consumer-based business, he just didn’t know what. After graduating from BGS in 1990, Simon began his career at pharmaceutical giant Procter & Gamble before landing a senior position at the Foster’s Group as International Brand Manager in North America.
Simon’s frustration of a lack of a decent burger in Australia and passion towards the ‘paddock to plate’ food movement saw him enter a crowded fast food category dominated by global behemoths like McDonald’s. With a single restaurant and a single idea, that eating burgers isn’t bad, Grill’d was born in Hawthorn in 2004.
Now with 154 restaurants across Australia, in 2019 Grill’d also went global by opening its doors in Seminyak, Bali.
With a keen eye for highly marketable brands and promise to turn the world of chocolate upside down, in 2016 Simon purchased Koko Black, a sophisticated and premium chocolate brand, now with 16 stores nationally.
Simon is widely recognised as one of Australia’s most creative entrepreneurs.
Matt Dennis & Luke Marget
(OBs 1995) HOF Inductee
Childhood friends Matt Dennis and Luke Marget met at the age of 9 and still consider themselves as the best of mates. When concocting health product ideas with foundation partner Brad Wilson in the early 2000s, the original intention was to make a drink they would like to consume themselves. By 2005 the Made Group was born.
Fast forward 17 years and Made can boast being the first Australian company to launch vitamin-infused bottled water through NutrientWater, coconut water, high-protein breakfast drinks and coldpressed juices with an extended shelf life; beating giants such as Coca-Cola Amatil Schweppes to the market by several years.
Spanning Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth, their national distribution network now services 20,000 retail customers ranging from independents to Australia’s largest retail chains.
With brands representing more than $200m in annual retail sales, Matt and Luke’s original dream of producing a homegrown innovation has become a homegrown success.
64 AUTUMN 2023
Associate Professor
Ron Dick OAM
(OB 1973) HOF Inductee
After completing his studies at BGS in 1973, Ron completed his Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery in 1979 and by 1986 became a Fellow of the Australian College of Physicians. Ron had a keen interest in interventional cardiology and embraced the opportunity to complete a fellowship at the University of Michigan Medical Centre in the USA.
Ron has forged an outstanding career in all aspects of interventional cardiology, with a special interest in the management of acute coronary syndrome including myocardial infarction, cardiogenic shock, and clinical research.
Ron is the Chairman of the Cardiovascular Institute at Epworth Healthcare and was also the Past Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee and Past Board of Management Member. He is currently an Honorary Cardiologist at the Alfred Hospital and Bendigo Healthcare Group.
In 2017, he received an OAM for service to medicine as a cardiologist.
Ben Hance OAM
(OB 2018) HOF Inductee
When Ben Hance OAM broke the 100m backstroke S14 world record at the Australian Para Swimming Championships in 2021, you sensed something special was on the horizon at the delayed Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
In his Australian Dolphins debut on the biggest stage Ben certainly didn’t disappoint, winning gold in just outside his own world record, as well as taking silver and bronze in freestyle and butterfly respectively.
The Champion Swimmer of the Junior School in 2012 Ben moved to Queensland to pursue a swimming career, a state he still calls home as a key member of University of the Sunshine Coast Spartans Swimming squad.
Ben’s extraordinary form has continued in 2022, and at the World Para Swimming Championships in Madeira he again won gold, this time in the in the men’s 100m backstroke S14 in a championship record. Just weeks later at Birmingham’s Commonwealth Games Ben took home the silver in the men’s 200m freestyle S14 event.
AUTUMN 2023 65
Colin Heseltine
(OB 1964) HOF Inductee
Colin Heseltine attended Brighton Grammar School from 1956 and was crowned Dux in his final year of 1964. He wasted no time upon completing an Economics degree at Monash University and by 1969 had begun a career with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that would span four decades.
Colin’s distinguished career included a number of postings across Asia and senior policy advisory positions in Australia. He also had diplomatic appointments in Chile, Spain and for the United Nations General Assembly.
From 2001 Colin served as Australian Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, and after ambassadorial and directorship positions in Singapore, officially retired from the Australian Government in 2008.
Not one to sit still, since retiring Colin has sat on the board of Sino Gas and Energy, served as Vice Chairman for the Australia Korea Business Council and is an Adjunct Professor of RMIT University.
Walter Jack
(OB 1892) HOF Inductee
Walter Annandale Jack attended Brighton Grammar School from 1885 to 1892 alongside his four brothers. In 1913 Walter was elected just the fourth President of the Old Brighton Grammarians’ Society before joining the BGS Council for the next 41 years, including 17 as Chairman.
Crucially he was a key benefactor during the School’s greatest time in need in 1924 that secured the ongoing viability of BGS. Without the generosity of benefactors like Walter, BGS would have closed its doors.
Away from the School, Walter worked for the family’s wholesale paper business, Andrew Jack Dyson & Co, and his business acumen saw him appointed Chairman in 1956 before assuming the same role for the Brighton Gas Company that occupied the Junior School site.
Walter is a man to whom our School owes so much.
66 AUTUMN 2023
Craig Marais
(OB 2020) Young Achiever
It isn’t easy being heralded as a child prodigy while at primary school, but as Craig Marais has shown hard work and determination converts a reputation into results.
The South African-born Wizkid burst onto the scene for the U12 School Sport Victoria state side and has never looked back, playing in five junior state carnivals prior to being selected for the U18 Australian Youth Olympics team in Argentina when just a Year 10 student at BGS.
By Year 11 Craig debuted for the newly created Hockey One national competition, and in his final year of school was selected to represent his country in the National U21 team who sadly never took to the pitch due to COVID-19 interruptions.
In early 2022 Craig was elevated to the revered Australian Kookaburras squad and made his debut in Perth against Malaysia just weeks later.
Ian Mence
(OB 1954) HOF Inductee
A pioneer of the Australian Timber Industry, an educator in entrepreneurship and a community leader, Ian’s extraordinary feats cut across a number of sectors.
A product of the BGS Junior School, Ian spent the 1960s cutting his teeth in sales, financial analysis and management that would prove invaluable. By 1969 Ian founded Mence Timber Australia, who from a humble beginning of making cheap furniture grew to turning over $100m annually. It was during this time that Leeron Investments was born, specialising in the seasoning and machining of Tasmanian hardwood. In 2012 Ian was appointed as the Chairman of the Forestry Industry Council.
A Guest Lecturer on Entrepreneurship and Small Business, and in conjunction with Melbourne University, Ian established the Melbourne Accelerator Program in 2012, with 22,000 members being taught business education by experienced business people.
Ian has held past positions as a Councillor of the Brighton Community Hospital, Chairman of the Bayside Drug and Youth Suicide Centre and board member of the Mayflower Retirement Community.
AUTUMN 2023 67
Marcus Morrelli
(OB 2012) Young Achiever
Marcus Morelli took up ballet aged 10 at the urging of his family and has never looked back. He studied at the Jane Moore Academy of Ballet and The Australian Ballet School, and toured with The Dancers Company in 2013.
Marcus joined The Australian Ballet in 2014 and just a year later was an Australian Ballet Dancer Award nominee. By 2017 he was elevated to a soloist position, and following a renowned role in Spartacus, Marcus was promoted to the prestigious role of Senior Artist in 2018.
In recent times Marcus played a key role in the Australian Ballet’s La Bayadere and is currently preparing for the Sydney season of Instruments of Dance at the Opera House.
Colin Neave
(OB 1961) HOF Inductee
After graduating in 1961 Colin completed a law degree from Melbourne University, and by 1967 was practicing as a solicitor that would consume the next 15 years.
Roles for Toyota and as a public servant in four states and territories followed before being named Banking Ombudsman in 1996. Colin held the position as Chief Ombudsman for the Financial Ombudsman Service, during which time he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for service to public administration and to the banking and finance industry, particularly through dispute resolution.
Colin was appointed as the Commonwealth Ombudsman in 2012, a role that he would hold for the next five years prior to his appointment as Fairness Advisor for the ANZ.
Colin’s unique skills in administration, as well as his ability to drive a common goal, has seen him serve as Chair in a number of organisations including St Michael’s School, the Canberra Street Theatre and the Jan Pentland Foundation, that he still heads today.
68 AUTUMN 2023
Ian Paroissien
(OB
Ian Paroissien graduated from BGS in 1969 with his name not long after becoming became synonymous with Price Waterhouse Coopers, after joining as a cadet in 1973. From cadet to Partner and a Member of the Partner’s Board, there wasn’t much Ian didn’t achieve win 43 years with PWC. His taxation expertise would take him across the globe, including two stints as Partner in Charge in Indonesia and specialist consultant throughout Europe while based in Paris.
Ian’s contribution to BGS has been profound, serving 16 years as a Member of Council including 12 as Chairman. Among a number of highlights, Ian led the purchase and development of Girraween and the appointment of Ross Featherston as Headmaster. He is an OBGS Honorary Life Member and a Life Governor of the School.
Ian continued to shape lives away from BGS as Deputy Chair and Chair of the Property Committee at the Brotherhood of St Laurence. He was also founding Chair of the Brotherhood’s David Scott School Council.
Hugh Purse
(OB
Hugh Purse began his schooling at BGS in 1889 and by the turn of the century he had rifle in hand serving his country at the Boer War.
Upon returning he and older brother Arthur etched their names in BGS folk law when combining to produce the School Song consisting of two verses and a refrain, referred to today as the BGS Chorus.
Inspired by older brother Jack’s Premiership heroics with the Melbourne Football Club in 1900, Hugh went about making a name for himself on the game of Australian Rules Football.
Noted for his strong marking, after showing great skill for VFA club Brighton, Hugh followed in Jack’s footsteps in representing Melbourne, playing many of his early games as a half forward.
By 1907 Hugh was widely regarded as the Club’s best player, and the following season was crowned Melbourne Football Club Captain.
Hugh played his final game in 1915 and turned his hand to a successful career as Director of the Yorkshire Insurance Company.
1969) HOF Inductee
1896) HOF Inductee
AUTUMN 2023 69
Gary Smith
(OB 1968) HOF Inductee
Gary Smith graduated from Brighton Grammar School as Dux in 1969 and has enjoyed a distinguished career in academia.
Gary is an active researcher on areas relating to Australian and International relations and is an author and editor of numerous articles and books on international relations in the Asia Pacific global governance and civil society.
Gary’s name is synonymous with Deakin University, where he originally held various roles including Professor of International Relations and Program Director at the Centre for Defence and Strategic Studies at the Australian Defence College.
Before returning to Deakin in 2013 when appointed Deputy Vice Chancellor (Global Engagement), Gary held positions at Western Sydney University including Executive Dean of College of Arts and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement and International).
Gary has also been a visiting high-level foreign expert at Renmin University of China in Beijing.
George Thomson
(OB 1951) HOF Inductee
With an association with Brighton Grammar School nearing 80 years, the School would not be what it is today without George Thomson.
There is no finer honour roll than George’s at BGS, including terms as OBGS President, Chairman of Council and Life Governor of the School. He is one of just 19 Honorary Life Members of the OBGS and currently serves as a Patron of the Sequamur Society.
Away from BGS George forged a reputation as a pioneer in the real estate industry, and in 2022 was inducted as a Real Estate Institute of Victoria Life Member. George is a Fellow of the Real Estate Institute of Australia and of the Australian Institute of Valuers. He also served on the REIV Executive Council, including a significant period as VicePresident.
George is a man whom many call a dear friend and one who epitomises the very essence of our School motto, Meliora Sequamur.
70 AUTUMN 2023
Harry Williams
(OB 1930) HOF Inductee
Harry Williams was educated at Brighton Grammar School until 1930 playing golf from the age of 10, and at just 12 was elected a junior member of Commonwealth Golf Club
A child prodigy, he won his first monthly medal in 1928 starring in the club’s senior pennant team. At the age of 16 he joined Victoria Golf Club and that year won both the Australian and Victorian amateur championships. Williams won the Victorian amateur championship again in 1934, 1935, 1936 and 1939. After winning his second Australian amateur title in 1937, he was heralded by many as ‘the greatest golfer Australia had produced’.
Chronic asthma cut short Harry’s army service and he did not play golf seriously after World War II. A poor financial manager, the family fortune dwindled as rising prices, a keen interest in horse racing and unemployment took their toll.
In 2002, Harry was named as one of the twelve members of the Victorian golfing team of the 20th century.
Berrick Wilson
(OB 1988) HOF Inductee
As Vice-Captain of the School in 1988, Berrick Wilson was regarded a hardworking and selfless student who lit up the Rugby pitch and can boast a rare 1st XI Cricket Century.
Berrick is founding partner and National Head of KordaMentha Real Estate and Managing Director of KordaMentha Investment Management, highly regarded as one of Australia’s leading property experts.
When Berrick and wife Caroline’s two-dayold daughter Milla was rushed to hospital with a brain haemorrhage, an idea was conceived in the heart of the stress. While Milla made a full recovery, Berrick made a promise to turn the experience into a force for good. It was at that time that the Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation was born. Chain Reaction is a long-distance cycling event for senior executives with a passion for cycling to raise money for sick children. Berrick came good on that promise and since the first ride in 2007, that force for good has raised a staggering $37m for critically ill children.
AUTUMN 2023 71
Vale
It is with sadness that we advise the names of Old Brighton Grammarians who have passed away. Our condolences to their families.
Dennis Belcher (OB 1955)
Peter Reith AM (OB 1968)
Malcom Titshall QC (OB 1966)
Peter Mowson (OB 1979)
Stan Marks OAM (OB 1945)
Denis Sholl (OB 1951)
Keith Patterson (OB 1946)
STAN MARKS OAM (OB 1945)
A MAN OF GREAT TALENT, COMMITMENT, LOYALTY AND HUMOUR.
Stan Marks (OB 1945), a respected journalist, author, and public relations expert, passed away on 18 January 2023 at the age of 93. Born in London in 1929, he moved to Australia when he was two and graduated from Brighton Grammar in 1946, going on to study journalism at the University of Melbourne. His reporting role with The Herald marked the start of a lifelong career in journalism and public relations, where he dedicated his work to fostering the rights of minority groups, promoting international understanding, and advocating for the ability to find humour in life’s challenges.
Throughout his career, Stan worked for various Australian journals in London, Canada, and America before joining the ABC as Public Relations and Publicity Supervisor. Later, he became the Public Relations and Publicity Manager for the Australian Tourist Commission. Stan’s writing focused on promoting respect and understanding between different races, cultures, and religions. His groundbreaking work included an article in The New York Times about a special worldwide United Nations Youth Council, which aimed to foster greater global cooperation and understanding between adults and young people.
72 AUTUMN 2023
Stan was also an accomplished author, having written 14 books that were published both in Australia and overseas. His work on MS, a popular cartoon strip, and the play Viva la Difference, which explored malefemale relationships, earned him great acclaim. Additionally, Stan was a regular speaker on various topics, including the importance of humour, for the BBC, CBC and ABC.
Stan’s contributions to his community were recognized when he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia and named Glen Eira Citizen of the Year. He spent 17 years editing the Jewish Holocaust Centre’s magazine, Centre News and worked as a guide alongside his beloved wife, Eva.
In 2020, to encourage Brighton Grammar students with their writing, he endowed the Stan & Eva Marks Writing Prize in memory of his beloved wife Eva. The finalist essays become archival records of the year at BGS, with the Year 6 and Year 11 winners receiving a prize at Speech Night.
Stan is fondly remembered at BGS for his legacy of respect, understanding, and humour. His contributions to journalism, writing and community service will not be forgotten.
Kate Birrell Alumni & Community Manager
AUTUMN 2023 73
FROM 1983 TO 2001.
As well as being a senior Federal Government Cabinet Minister, he was father to four boys, father-in-law to four adoring daughters-in-law and grandfather to 13 grandchildren for whom he was their devoted and adored grandpa.
At BGS Peter was a high achiever serving as a Prefect, Cadet CUO and Captain of Boats in 1968. He held the House Shot Put record for many years and played Football (Aussie Rules) at First XVIII level and achieved an Exhibition (highest award for academic excellence) in Australian History in his Matriculation year (Year 12) in 1968.
After graduating from Monash University with a degree in Law and Economics, Peter
THE HON PETER REITH AM (OB
1968)
began his career as a lawyer, practising in both Melbourne and Cowes in rural Victoria. He then transitioned into politics, becoming a Councillor of the Shire of Phillip Island in 1976.
He was a stalwart of the Young Liberal movement and was eventually elected to the House of Representatives as MP for Flinders in 1983. He lost his seat four months later when the Bob Hawkeled ALP bundled out the then Fraser Government. He was re-elected again in 1984, holding the seat until his retirement from politics in 2001.
In politics, Peter served in several shadow portfolios including Shadow Attorney General and Shadow Treasurer and was Deputy Leader of the Federal Opposition at the time of John Hewson’s leadership.
When the Howard Government was swept to power in 1996, Peter was appointed Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations. Small Business was soon added to his Ministerial responsibilities and
PETER (TINY TO HIS FRIENDS) REITH WAS A BORN LEADER AND ACHIEVED MANY GREAT THINGS IN HIS 72 YEARS NOT THE LEAST OF WHICH WAS HIS STELLAR POLITICAL CAREER
74 AUTUMN 2023
in 2000, he was appointed Minister for Defence. Peter also served as Leader of the House in the Howard Government.
Respected political journalist Robert Gottliebsen once described Peter’s achievements and tenacity with waterfront reform as one of the country’s best achievements by a politician.
He was instrumental in developing the Liberal Party’s ‘Fightback’ policy, which included the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax.
Peter’s contributions to public service were not limited to his political career. While practising law in Phillip Island, he played a key role in establishing Newhaven College and a penguin research facility.
Peter will be remembered for his dedication to public service and his contributions to shaping Australian politics and as a loving family man.
Peter had a long and brave battle with Alzheimer’s disease which ended his life in November 2022. He is survived by his wife Kerrie, four sons Paul, Simon, David and Robbie and stepson Simon.
He will be greatly missed by three of his rowing crew mates from the 1968 BGS First VIII; Peter Thornborrow, Peter Wilson AM and Andrew Biggin. All four had their birthdays fall between 8- and 15 July and the four families celebrated the birthday dinner together for many years.
Andrew Biggin (OB 1969)
AUTUMN 2023 75
01 Simon Angus (Deputy Headmaster), Richard Zachariah
02 Warwick Brewster, Brian Comport, Paul Taylor
03 Malcom Wylie, Peter Toms OAM, Alan Noble
PENDENNIS CHAPTER ‘60 YEARS ON’ REUNION
Attendees
Warwick Brewster (OB 1960), Brian Comport (OB 1958), Ross Featherston (Headmaster), Patrick Humphries (OB 1962), Geoffrey Knight AM (OB 1960), Rowan McKeon (OB 1962), Colin Neave AM (OB 1961), Alan Noble (OB 1953), Michael Osborne Hon. (OB 1985, OBGS President), Jamie Pearce (OB 1959), John Smith (OB 1962), Victor Stewart (OB 1961), Stephen Tanner (OB 1955), Paul Taylor (OB 1963), Graeme Templeton (OB 1961), Peter Toms OAM (Staff), Roger Wilson OAM (OB 1961), Malcolm Wylie (OB 1954), Richard Zachariah (OB 1962), Norman Zantuck (OB 1962)
01 02 03
76 AUTUMN 2023
TOP ENDERS’ HARRY ZACHARIAH CRICKET LUNCH
01 Peter Fergus (OB 1960), Peter Toms OAM, Barry Pryor (OB 1958)
02 Simon Potter (OB 1964), Barry Gibson (OB 1967), Allen Gibson (OB 1968)
03 Andrew Tims (OB 1965), Michael Talbot (OB 1965), Bob King (OB 1954)
To join Top Enders’ lunches email
obgs@brightongrammar.vic.edu.au or call 03 8591 2272
Hancock House is named after Canon William Hancock, former Vicar of St Andrew’s Church from 1918-1928, who later became Archdeacon of Melbourne.
01 02 03
AUTUMN 2023 77
THE OBGS HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY NIGHT
Old Grammarians working in the hospitality industry gathered in our BHIVE recently to network and share stories. A highlight of the event was the unveiling of our Grill’d Kitchen. The BHIVE classrooms also double as a superb event space, with
a perfect view across the Crowther, enjoyed by the guests on the night! Old Boy businesses represented include E&S Trading, Ewert Leaf, the BJBAC Group (think Sunny Boy in Mordi) and Grill’d Burgers of course!
01 Rob Sinclair, Sophie Crowe, Matt Reid
02 Industry Night attendees
03 Simon Williams, Rob Kent
04 The Headmaster with Sophie and Simon Crowe
01 02 03 04
78 AUTUMN 2023
01 Rys Tucker, Andrew Potter, Richard Oakley, Andrew Arendsen
02 Peter Malan, Sam Edwards, Troy Grendala, Ben Pascoe
03 David Walker, Luke Stewart, Trevor Parkes, Luke Veale
04 Richard Oakley, Shaun McGilton, Rob Twigg
05 Luke Veale, Peter Rehder, Matthew Gamble
30 Year Reunion Class of 1992
02 03 04 05 01 AUTUMN 2023 79
01 02 03 04 AUTUMN 2023 80
50 Years On Luncheon
01 John Willis, John Baragwanath, John Richards, Michael Laurie, Leigh Devine, Gary Simmons, Peter Fitzgerald
02 John Campbell, John Chandler
03 Allen Gibson, Jack Kagan
04 John Richards, Michael Osborne (OBGS President)
05 Denis Rebbechi, Russ Bate OAM Paul Purcell
06 Tim Marshall, Peter Holmes, John Baragwanath
07 Phillip Hamilton, Geof Hosie, Graeme Templeton
Attendees
Lyndon Arnold (OB 1964), Ron Baneth (OB 1967), John Baragwanath (OB 1967), Russ Bate OAM (OB 1965), Philippe Batters (OB 1966), David Broadbent (OB 1968), John Campbell (OB 1971), John Chandler (OB 1970), Leigh Devine (OB 1967), John Dutton (OB 1964), Peter Fitzgerald (OB 1967), Allen Gibson (OB 1968), Phillip Hamilton RFD (OB 1966), Peter Holmes (OB 1962), Howard Hoskins (OB 1964), Jack Kagan (OB 1968), Ian Kerr (OB 1961), Michael Laurie (OB 1967), Peter Laurie (OB 1964), David Lloyd (OB 1971), Colin Neave AM (OB 1961), Michael Osborne Hon. (OB 1985), Laurence Pearl (OB 1950), Paul Purcell (OB 1966), Dennis Rebbechi (OB 1956), Bob Redding (OB 1961), John Richards (OB 1972), Gary Simmons (OB 1967), Desmond Smith (OB 1967), Trevor Spurritt (OB 1961), Stephen Tanner (OB 1955), Graeme Templeton (OB 1961), George Thomson (OB 1951), John Willis (OB 1966), Chris Wilson (OB 1955), Roger Wilson OAM (OB 1961), Fred Zerfas AM (OB 1952).
05 06 07 AUTUMN 2023 81
OBGS 2023 Calendar of Events
REUNION
OBGS AGM
Past Presidents Dinner
Meliora Club Dinner
Anzac Day Service
50 Year Reunion | Class of 1973
Top Enders | Term 2 lunch
APS Past Students Golf Day
40 Year Reunion | Class of 1983
20 Year Reunion | Class of 2003
30 Year Reunion | Class of 1993
Top Enders | Term 3 lunch
1 Year Reunion | Class of 2022
10 Year Reunion | Class of 2013
5 Year Reunion | Class of 2018
50 Years On | Luncheon
Remembrance Day Service
Top Enders | Term 4 lunch
DATE
Monday 20 March
Monday 20 March
Tuesday 21 March
Wednesday 26 April
Friday 5 May
Thursday 11 May
Friday 12 May
Friday 19 May
Friday 21 July
Friday 11 August
Thursday 17 August
Friday 1 September
Friday 8 September
Friday 6 October
Thursday 19 October
Wednesday 8 November
Thursday 23 November
Please email
obgs@brightongrammar.vic.edu.au
if you don’t currently receive our OBGS emails.
82 AUTUMN 2023
+ BGS PLUS
BGS+ programs to do more and be more at BGS
BGS+ offers a range of innovative programs for children to develop their skills and interests, take on new challenges, and follow their passions whatever they may be.
With many of the programs open to the wider community, there’s a growing variety of programs for your son (or daughter) to do more and be more at BGS.
To learn more and view all our programs and timetable visit www.brightongrammar.vic.edu.au/community/bgs-plus
AUTUMN 2023 83
BGS warmly invites Past Mothers to our
on Thursday 4 May 2023
at 12:00 noon
The Royal Brighton Yacht Club 253 The Esplanade, Brighton
Cost $65 per person Includes sparkling wine on arrival. Further drinks at Bar prices
RSVP by Friday 28 April 2023 BOOKING
80th High Tea
ONLINE
CREDIT CARD
Emily on (03)
www.trybooking.com/CGWHF
Call
8591 2271
84 AUTUMN 2023
Past Mothers’ Celebration
Brighton Grammar School 90 Outer Crescent Brighton VIC 3186 Australia t 03 8591 2200 w www.brightongrammar.vic.edu.au CRICOS Provider No. 00132K ABN 61 004 117 668 Be part of it We’ve saved 944 kg of carbon dioxide by printing this book using environmentally friendly methods. 944 kg