Spectemur Issue 4 2024

Spectemur Issue 4

Editorial Committee

Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Emma McMillan

Marketing and Communications Manager, Claire Denbury Head of Community and Development, Ryan Whitehead Development Associate (Alumni), Cindy Parker

Contact us

Alumni ocga@cgs.vic.edu.au

Foundation cec@cgs.vic.edu.au

Marketing cda@cgs.vic.edu.au

55 Mont Albert Road, Canterbury VIC 3126

Spectemur is printed on FSC certified 100% recycled uncoated ‘Revive Laser’ paper. The carbon emissions associated with the Spectemur production have been offset through various sustainable practices. By adopting carbon-neutral practices, Spectemur aims to uphold the environmental values of the School.

From the Headmaster’s Desk

Recently, as I was walking into School at the start of the day, one of our Junior School students wandered across my path as he came out of the Contemplation Garden. He looked up at me with wonder on his face and declared: ‘Rainbow lorikeets are the most amazing creatures!’ I asked if he had just seen some, and he took me around to where a pair of these gorgeous birds were sitting on a branch in the garden. We discussed how you usually see them in pairs as they mate for life, and we both spent a few moments admiring them.

How lucky am I, that for the past 20 years, I have had such interactions with our boys on a daily basis?

It is easy to be distracted by all of the doom and gloom that fills our media nowadays. There are certainly many serious issues and crises facing our world. The news and our social media streams are filled with all the things that are going wrong: democracy is under threat, autocrats are invading their weaker neighbours, the Middle East is collapsing and the cost of living is seemingly rising faster than we can bear. Humans cannot seem to rise above their baser instincts and the world is going to pot. I am reminded of John O’Brien’s classic Australian poem in which Hanrahan declares ‘We’ll all be rooned before the year is out’ –a claim he makes every year over and over again.

There is much to be concerned about in the world, and our task as humans is to tackle those things, and to try to make this the best place it can be. But there is also much to be grateful for – particularly in our small corner of the world. We are blessed with resources, with peace and with a civil society in which people can disagree politely and peacefully.

As a teacher, I have been privileged to work with young people all my career, and I have had the joy of watching them grow (physically and in their thinking), make mistakes and learn from them, struggle with their studies and in their friendships, and develop into thoughtful, caring and impressive young people. I have been able to watch them from their very first year at school, to watch them in their studies, in their sport, in their music and art making.

I have been able to follow them through their post-school lives and meet them again at reunions to hear about their careers and watch them form their own families and raise their own children. It makes me feel deeply optimistic about the future. How can tyrants rule when there are young people like this emerging into the world to challenge them, and to encourage us all to be the best possible versions of ourselves?

I have also been privileged to work with caring and highly capable colleagues who also share a passion for teaching young people. Together we have tried to make education exciting and wonderful, we have tried to make this place somewhere students are happy to be and a school they can feel proud to be a part of. We have tried to give them the tools with which to resist cynicism. We have encouraged them to see the wonder in living and to have the selfconfidence to embrace the diversity among us.

I have been lucky enough to work with young people who remain thrilled by the beauty of rainbow lorikeets. For that, I am truly thankful – it is a wealth beyond riches.

Dr Paul Hicks Headmaster

‘Together we have tried to make education exciting and wonderful, we have tried to make this place somewhere students are happy to be and a school they can feel proud to be a part of.’

Dr Paul Hicks Headmaster

To the Class of 2024

Wishing You Good Lives, Full of Living

Term 4 brought with it a sense of nostalgia and celebration as the Class of 2024 spent their last days together on campus, preparing to step beyond the familiar grounds of Camberwell Grammar.

During the first weeks of Term 4, Year 12 students participated in a series of ceremonies and traditions marking the close of their school journey. These events were filled with a combination of fun, emotion and celebration as the School honoured each student’s unique contribution. The students, some of whom have been part of the fabric of Camberwell Grammar for 14 years, enjoyed this special season of farewell in the presence of friends, family and teachers.

The final days for Year 12s culminated in Dress Up Day, final House Assemblies, Prize Giving, the Leaver’s Service at St Mark’s and the Valedictory Dinner at the Grand Hyatt. On their last school morning, students gathered in the Performing Arts Centre as teachers from Junior, Middle and Senior Schools shared reflections on the cohort’s growth and achievements. The Cufflink

Presentation by members of the Old Camberwell Grammarians’ Association then welcomed our leavers into their new chapter as soon-to-be-alumni.

In his Valedictory Speech, 2024 School Captain Tommy Auwardt reflected on the bittersweet nature of leaving Camberwell Grammar, drawing on the words of retired AFL player Angus Brayshaw. ‘Brayshaw spoke about how hard it is to say goodbye to something you love, how it takes time to adjust when you leave something that’s been all you’ve known. For us, it’s different. We are on the brink of something new and full of potential. We’re stepping forward with a blend of excitement and a little sadness— good sadness because it means we truly care.’

Tommy reflected on the Year 12 cohort. ‘The Class of 2024 started as 25 boys in Junior School but has grown enormously in size and character. It would be impossible

to find another group of such kind, generous, hilarious and talented people and I feel so genuinely lucky to say that I was a classmate of you all. No matter what lies ahead, have hope, faith and courage that we are finally prepared.’

The Headmaster, Dr Hicks, who is also leaving Camberwell Grammar this year, shared his thoughts on leading a ‘good life’ and making a meaningful impact. He urged the cohort to live with purpose, saying, ‘I want you to be good men and to live good lives—lives not just full of success, but lives filled with positive contributions to the world. I wish you full, good lives, full of living and I hope that when you go, as we all must go, those around you will say: he made the world a better place by being in it.’

Congratulations and farewell to the Class of 2024—all of us at Camberwell Grammar are immensely proud of each of you.

Farewell to Dr Paul Hicks

In this special edition of Spectemur, themed A Season for Celebration, we celebrate the legacy and achievements of Dr Paul Hicks, our outgoing Headmaster. In our linked video, hear from students, staff and others about the lasting impression he has made on the hearts and minds of the entire School community.

After 20 years of outstanding leadership, the ninth Headmaster of Camberwell Grammar School, Dr Paul Hicks, will retire at the end of 2024.

Dr Hicks first joined Camberwell Grammar School from Haileybury College in 1991 as the new Head of History. He quickly distinguished himself as an excellent teacher and a dedicated participant in the extra-curricular program, where he directed the Year 7 and 8 Hockey teams and the Lawn Bowlers with aplomb. Paul was also a valued member of Summons House and was instrumental in its 1996 House Music victory.

As Head of History Paul oversaw the ‘Australia Remembers – 1945-95’ program in 1995. The recording of interviews by his History students with Alumni who were veterans of the Second World War created an invaluable archive of the Camberwell Grammar involvement in that conflict, as did the body of research undertaken under his direction on the service records of Grammarians in the First World War.

Dr Hicks left the School in 1996 but returned in 2005 after a stint at Caulfield Grammar to take up the position of Headmaster. It is in this role that Paul has left an indelible impression on the School.

The School’s academic performance has remained strong, the Music, Drama and Arts programs are the envy of all, and recent sporting achievements are most gratifying. Enrolments are high and waiting lists are long. Paul has also presided over the most ambitious building redevelopment program ever undertaken by the School. Every facility of the School is now state-of-the-art, and Camberwell Grammar has a standing in the community that has never been stronger.

Paul has also been an enthusiastic member of the School Orchestra and even conducted the performance of the Chess song Anthem at this year’s Hamer Hall Concert.

More broadly, Paul is a highly respected educational leader and has served as Chair and long-standing committee member of the Victorian Branch of the Association of Heads of Independent Schools (AHISA), as a member of the National AHISA Board, and as Chair of the Associated Grammar Schools of Victoria (AGSV), where he has supported and encouraged many other Principals in the education sector.

And yet, for all the achievements noted above, it will be his other qualities for which Paul will be most remembered. He is passionate about boys’ education and has continually promoted the School’s mission of developing fine young men who can make a positive difference in today’s world. Paul has brought a kindness and a caring attitude that has not always existed at the School. His great care for the School and the members of its community, his empathy and his inspiring leadership have helped build a very special culture that has filtered down to the students and contributed to the School being all that it is today.

In partnership with his wonderful wife Susan, Paul has been a great ambassador for Camberwell Grammar School. We thank both Paul and Susan for their outstanding contribution to our School and wish them well for the future.

Mr Gavin Powell School Council Chair

Dr Paul Hicks Timeline

1991-1996

Dr Paul Hicks came to Camberwell Grammar from Haileybury in 1991 as the new Head of History.

2005-2024

Dr Hicks returned from Caulfield Grammar in 2005 as the ninth Headmaster of Camberwell Grammar School since 1886. He was ambitious for the School, hoping to enhance the School’s academic endeavours and to provide Grammarians with the skills they would need in a rapidly changing world. This would involve the accumulation of knowledge and an awareness of the place that each student would have in the community, both local and international. Dr Hicks markedly succeeded in fulfilling these aspirations over his two decades as Headmaster.

Headmaster Hicks also oversaw the most extensive building redevelopment program that the School has ever seen. Every facility of the School, whether for academic studies, music, sport, drama or the arts is now stateof-the-art and Camberwell Grammar has a standing in the community that has never been stronger. These achievements are due in large part to the gifted leadership that Dr Hicks has shown both at the School itself and in many other related educational associations.

How the School has Changed

2007

Completion of Master Plan and new Angliss Building opened

2008

Submission of new Master Plan including a Sports Centre

2013

Wheelton Centre opened

2016

Completion of Master Plan and acquisition of Dorset House

2017

Sports Centre opened including the first purpose-built All Souls Chapel.

Construction begins on one of the largest school solar arrays in a school in Australia.

2022

Camberwell Grammar operates on 100% renewable energy, sourcing remaining energy requirements from ENGIE.

‘Dr Hicks encouraged every student to be the best version of themselves and achieve and be the best person they can be… Thank you for all that you’ve done for me, my cohort and so many other Camberwell Grammar boys over the years.’

Geoff Gong (2020)

2024

CGS awarded Top 20 Sustainable schools in Australia.

Dr Hicks with long-serving staff members

Dr Hicks with past and present School Executive

Dr Paul Hicks 1991 Lawn Bowls 1996

A Video Tribute to Dr Paul Hicks

Student Tributes

‘Thank you Dr Hicks for sending us letters for our productions like Oliver and Macbeth . You’ve been a really good Headmaster over all of the years. Thank you.’

‘When I think of Dr Hicks, I think of someone very strong because he has been helping all around the School for 20 whole years contributing a lot.’

‘Once we were making billy carts outside and Dr Hicks came outside to say hello to us and asked us lots of nice questions about the billy carts.’

‘You did a great job and you left a huge impact. and guided us on the right path. Thank you for everything. ‘

‘Thanks Dr Hicks for being a great Headmaster, and thank you for being my dad’s history teacher and my Headmaster.’

‘Dr Hicks is kind, helpful and courageous.’

‘He’s charismatic, passionate, generous.’

‘He’s hard-working and brave.’

‘He gave me advice to always pay it forward. So whenever you get something, always make sure to take that and give it on to the next person.’

‘On Orientation Day, I was nervous and apprehensive, but Dr Hicks made me feel welcomed…Thank you Dr Hicks for being a great Headmaster.’

‘You’ve done a great job at our School. Keep doing what you’re doing in your life. You make everyone around you happy.’

Learn about the lasting impact Dr Paul Hicks has made on our School community in this tribute video: https://vimeo.com/1021925217.

Community Tributes

‘That compassion that he has for everyone. It’s quiet, often unobserved, but deeply felt and has such impact… Paul takes those kinds of risks, to say let’s just see what happens. And it’s done with joy that makes you feel that things are possible. Just go for it, don’t be afraid.’

Mrs Anne Walters

‘I worked with Paul very closely as Development Director to raise funds and community awareness. It was always that focus on social justice that made Paul stand out from other principals I’ve worked with…The School has become a compassionate place to be. It extends to the whole School community – that warmth and humility.’

Mrs Liz Board

‘I think you’ll be remembered for the strong results and the excellent music and the amazing drama and the great sports results. And the fact that when visitors come to the School, more often than not, they’ll comment on how polite and generous our students are.’

Mr David Rayner

‘As a parent and an educator here at CGS, I really value the way you centre the student in your decision-making.’

Ms Stephanie Bohni

‘Visibly, the School is completely different from the one you inherited 20 years ago. It looks magnificent. The students have never seemed happier and more engaged and accepted as who they are.’

Mr Dayan Ramalingan

‘Dr Paul Hicks has guided the School through a two-decade period of social transformation unmatched in the history of the School and he has done so with sensitivity and humanity, cementing his worthy place in the history of Camberwell Grammar School. The School is in a better place than hitherto due to the innovative Hicks years, 2005-2024.’

Dr David Bird

‘You often talk about the power of education to make the world a better place, and this place is certainly all the better for your leadership and contribution.’

Mr Ben Jeacocke

Dr Hicks with his wife Susan

Student Voices Who We �re

Our students have a wide variety of interests and passions. Here, two students share what inspires them –within and beyond the classroom – and their hopes for the future.

Bach Tran (Year 11)

Camberwell Grammar has truly given me so many opportunities. Since Year 7 I have immersed myself in as many extracurricular activities as possible. The Music School, in particular, offers many opportunities for students. I have been fortunate enough to be a part of the School Choir, Chorale, Senior School Symphonic Winds and Symphony Orchestra, performing various repertoires; from Star Wars to Beethoven.

Debating is also a passion of mine. Making it to finals for DAV Debating has been the highlight of my debating experience and allowed me to hone my skills in the art of persuasion and public speaking. Moreover, I adore participating in Model United Nation events such as the Evatt Cup and the Gladwyn Cup. As I take on the role of Captain of Debating and Public Speaking in 2025, I look forward to promoting Debating and, as cliché as it sounds, passing on my knowledge to students in younger year levels.

As a Cadet Sergeant in the CGSACU (Camberwell Grammar School Army Cadet Unit), I have been able to command a platoon, call drill during the Open Day Cadet

Parade and plan (hopefully FUN) lessons for my cadets. For that reason, Cadets has been one of the greatest pleasures and experiences during my time at school.

If you are reading this, join Cadets next year!

I recently joined the CGS Rotary Interact Club and helped fundraise for various charities. One of these charities was Operation Toilets, a charity that builds toilets for adolescent girls in India. We donated $10,000 to the cause this year. Speaking in the Four Way Test, a public speaking competition, I also won a large donation for the School and had a blast while doing it. The annual Trivia Night, Year 9 Social and Sausage Sizzle were also extremely fun to organise.

Outside of school, my hobby is photography. The 36,337 photos on my phone and 2GBs left in my storage are a testament to the fact that I take pictures wherever I go. I am a big sucker for golden-hour sunsets, crashing waves on beaches and trains shooting past. My passion grew even stronger when my sister gifted me a camera. I then entered the Boroondara Photography Competition with guidance and support from Mrs Walters and was fortunate enough to attend an amazing awards night, winning 1st Place in the Senior Division.

As I approach my final year at Camberwell Grammar, I feel grateful for every opportunity that has shaped and built me and I look forward to making the most of 2025.

Photo by Bach Tran

Tom Robertson-Brown (Year 8)

The Ben Jago Award recognises good citizenship, support for others, willingness to get involved and a positive spirit in all areas of school life. Let’s meet Tom, who received this exceptional award in 2024.

I have been a student at Camberwell Grammar since Pre-Prep way back in 2015. I have many interests in subjects such as history, science, robotics and anything to do with sports. I barrack for the mighty Geelong Cats, follow Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League and follow reigning champs, the Black Panthers in the NRL.

l have been able to make many friends across all year levels and enjoy the social aspect of school. Outside of school, l play competitive tennis for Grace Park each Sunday and also try to compete in as many tennis competitions as possible. I play Futsal on a Friday evening with my mates which l enjoy – win or lose we have a great time together.

I have taken advantage of the learning enhancement classes to support me with English Literature – it’s not my favourite subject but this class supports my learning. I have taken full advantage of tennis opportunities at School and now l am in the Development Squad as well as the A Blue squad. I will give anything a good go. Even when l know I may not be the most successful, l will still give it a go and make something of it. I have taken advantage of meeting as many students as possible through school sports such as cross country and athletics where you mix with all ages from the School. This is a great way to meet everyone and seek out new mates.

I will be in Senior School next year so that will be a big step up. l am looking forward to the tutor form group and also tryouts for the Firsts Tennis Team. We have a camp coming up that looks good with many activities so I’m looking forward to that with many of my school friends. I’m also looking forward to giving back to the School by helping on Open Days and BBQs.

I also want to have time to reflect on what I have achieved at school once l reach Year 12 to see how far l have come. You only get one chance to make school as enjoyable as it can be – so make the most of your time, be involved and be present.

Staff Profiles

Mr Roger Devine

Year 9 and 10 Coordinator | English, Commerce and Global Politics Teacher

This year Roger took on a new challenge, stepping into the role of Year 9 and Year 10 Coordinator at Camberwell Grammar. This involves a combination of pastoral, curriculum and organisational elements that support students through these critical years.

This is a dynamic role that provides me with extensive opportunities to contribute to the design and implementation of numerous events, activities and the broader learning program for both Year 9 and Year 10. Before this, I was a Head of House and had the privilege to work with many wonderful students throughout their Senior School journey. I have always enjoyed being in a pastoral care role and the value it provides toward supporting students’ wellbeing. In 2018 I returned to study and completed a Master of Education (Student Wellbeing) at the University of Melbourne. Last year I was supported by the School to participate in an Action Research Program with the International Boys’ Schools Coalition (IBSC) with the topic; Balanced Boys: Promoting Healthy Masculinity Beyond the Classroom. My focus was to incorporate a rites of passage framework into our existing transition program, designed to extend our support structures to our students as they conclude

their time in Middle School and embark upon Senior School. It was a great thrill to present my Action Research findings at the IBSC conference at the Harrow School in North London during the July break this year.

Having been at Camberwell Grammar for more than 10 years, I still find the environment to be exciting and different each day. Our young people are energetic and creative, and whilst they may at times seek to give the impression of being disinterested, they are innately curious and inquisitive. As educators, we are blessed to work with tomorrow’s leaders, and it remains a great thrill to have the opportunity to shape and influence their lasting growth and development.

Outside of school, I enjoy being a dad! My wife, Alex and I have three children between the ages of 11 and 17, and this has provided me with an additional perspective on teenagers! One thing I have learnt is that there is no script for parenting. My children keep me busy, be it officiating at Life Saving Victoria carnivals, spectating at junior gymnastics competitions, being an attentive audience member at the most recent ballet concert, or chauffeuring to various trainings or rehearsals.

Ms Victoria Triantafyllou

Head of the Murdoch Centre for Teaching | Pedagogy and Innovation

Victoria joined Camberwell Grammar as the new Head of the Murdoch Centre at the start of Term 3 and has settled in quickly to our community.

One of my first experiences at Camberwell Grammar was a professional development day. As I walked through campus, every staff member I passed took a moment to greet me warmly, which left a lasting impression. At the end of my first week, I called a former colleague to share the kindness shown to me by the CGS staff and students. I knew I had found a wonderful school and an incredible culture to be part of.

I grew up in a small town in Gippsland with a population of fewer than 350 people—a setting quite different from life at CGS! However, I find familiar aspects, such as the strong sense of community, service and the pursuit of excellence in extracurricular activities. Sports and various interests were central to my childhood and I take great pleasure in watching the CGS students showcase their exceptional talents and passions. I feel strongly about fostering kindness and generosity in a community. This is something I learnt during my education and that I continue to emphasise with the students I teach.

After finishing Year 12, I moved to Melbourne to study laboratory medicine but soon realised my true interests were in working with people and helping others succeed. This led me to switch to a Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Education, a decision I am so grateful for. I genuinely believe I have found the best profession—a perfect blend of emotional intelligence, learning and problem-solving.

At home, I have two children, Stella (3) and Freddy (2). My husband, Pieter, is also an educator, and his support helps me balance my family and professional life. I feel fortunate to be part of a school that values this balance for working parents. As a family, we love being outdoors and staying active. Currently, I’m working on my monkey bar flips to keep up with the kids. Stella asks to see a new trick each day, and luckily, she hasn’t yet realised that I only have three tricks on rotation. Before becoming parents, Pieter and I spent our breaks travelling overseas. Now, with a young family, we enjoy exploring beachside towns, where our children fully embrace daily swims and ice creams.

Before joining CGS, I served as the foundation Assistant Principal at Richmond High School for seven years, where I had the incredible opportunity to help establish a brandnew school. I watched an entire cohort of students grow from a population of just 75 to graduating in a community of 650. This experience was a significant learning curve and I take great pride in it.

I believe young people will continue to amaze us, and it’s essential to provide a learning environment where they feel empowered to be curious, take risks and nurture their love of learning in the pursuit of excellence. I look forward to continuing the wonderful work that came before me and fostering this spirit at CGS. I find educational theory incredibly interesting, particularly when focusing on how we learn and behave. I’m excited to continue building on the Camberwell Grammar teaching practice, and as Henry Adams said, ‘A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.’ This is a role I am truly passionate about.

A Season for Celebrating Biodiversity and Student Engagement

With warmer days and longer daylight, Camberwell Grammar School’s grounds bloom with vibrant native colours. The Contemplation Garden and campus trees offer a lively backdrop for rosellas, king parrots and black cockatoos. This flourishing biodiversity brings joy to the School community and underscores our responsibility to protect the environment, supporting the goal of net-zero emissions by 2030.

Towards2050 students partnered with the Eastern Alliance for Sustainable Learning (EASL) to complete a 2024 Biodiversity Audit, assessing the School’s Habitat Quality Assessment Score (HQAS). Through detailed documentation of canopy, understory and ground cover species, alongside records of soil management, native animals and habitat areas, Camberwell Grammar earned an HQAS of 76 out of 100, highlighting the School’s commitment to biodiversity.

Biodiversity projects have engaged students across all year levels.

Junior School House groups, guided by Mrs Bhaskaran and Ms Ponert counted animals and insects in the schoolyard, with student Max noting ‘unique and fascinating leaf patterns’ and Caiden enjoying ‘the beauty of nature’.

Mr Haines’ Green Ninjas maintained the worm farms and vegetable garden.

During Schools Tree Day, 150 native species were planted near Gate 5 with the help of Mrs Howie’s Pre-Prep class, who reflected that ‘trees give us shade, air and a place to play’.

Congratulations to Ryan Ellis (Year 8) for winning the popular Schools Tree Day photography competition, organised by Mr Chockalingham. His winning image is pictured above.

Grade 4 students extended the Contemplation Garden by adding native plants under the flagpole, part of the Boroondara Council’s ‘Schools for Wildlife’ program.

The Towards2050 garden team harvested greens for a lunchtime stir fry, while student volunteers propagated and sold plants at Open Day under the guidance of Mrs Papageorgiou and Miss Turnnidge.

Several students, including Peter Shihata, Thomas Torre and Max Zhao (Year 9) participated in Greenfleet Australia’s tree-planting program to offset emissions, while Chris Chinowutthichai, Harry Anderson and Tom Tsui (Year 8) helped pack down the School’s beehive and James Newell and Nathan Tong (Year 10) managed the aquaponics system, feeding the fish daily to grow microgreens.

Enhancing biodiversity is a Net Zero by 2030 priority. Healthy ecosystems provide cleaner air, more resilient soils and habitats for local wildlife. Each of us can support this goal by planting native species, growing food, supporting pollinators and exploring emission-offset programs. By enjoying and protecting green spaces, we deepen our connection to nature and our commitment to sustainability. As Leo Smyth (4B) beautifully put it, ‘I see how beautiful the world is. We should take care of our world and not hurt the environment.’

Student Engagement

In a world where environmental challenges can feel overwhelming, empowering students with both celebration and agency lets them see themselves as part of the solution. At Camberwell Grammar School, dedicated students are creating impactful change, connecting with peers locally and globally and celebrating their achievements.

Mr Hone encourages community engagement with an emphasis on empowerment and hope. Students Tom Klebanowski (Year 10), Adil Jibu (Year 9), Oscar Wallis (Year 9) and Ishaan Ghosh (Year 8) recorded and edited a podcast episode on solutions-based journalism, sourced from Fix the News. This initiative, aiming for weekly episodes by students for students across participating schools, is designed to build a wider sustainability network. Beyond CGS, the InterSchools Partnership (ISP) grows stronger, with students from

a network of Melbourne schools sharing sustainability passions and projects. Earlier in the term, the Towards2050 student group toured the new facilities at Xavier College. This initiative fosters community among students, inspiring collaboration and a shared commitment to sustainability.

Alexander Boyd, Owen Yuan, Aaron Zhuang and Kevin Ch’ng (Year 10), guided by Ms Bellchambers, represented the School at the GALESS conference, presenting on Yarra River health. Alexander shared, ‘It was insightful connecting with groups from Singapore, Thailand, Germany and Melbourne, learning about their passions.’ Ivan Zhang, 2025 Sustainability Prefect, mentored the team, emphasising the program’s value in sustainability and skill development.

Ms Jo Menzies Sustainability Project Coordinator

Teaching andInnovation

Introducing the Berry Street Education Model

At Camberwell Grammar we aim to develop and maintain a culture that values academic achievement, knowledge and skills while nurturing and encouraging positive interpersonal relationships, diversity, integrity and a commitment to the service of others.

We hope to educate committed citizens of the future, to encourage interest and passion about the problems facing our world and to equip them with the skills necessary to do something about them. In the ever-evolving landscape of education, we recognise that innovation is key to ensuring that our students not only excel academically but also thrive emotionally and socially. As teachers, we are deeply invested in how we can adapt to meet the complex needs of all of our students.

Research consistently shows that when students feel emotionally safe, their brains are more open to learning. This is particularly important as many students face heightened levels of anxiety and stress—issues that have only been exacerbated post-lockdown. Schools are adapting to a new normal, where academic expectations must be balanced with ongoing mental health support. To this end, Camberwell Grammar staff have engaged in a wide range of professional learning opportunities including Rites of Passage, Positive Schools, Positive Masculinity, International Boys’ Schools Coalition conferences, Staff Wellbeing and Restorative Practice.

While these are all of great value, we recognised the need as colleagues to share our learning so we could develop a whole school approach. Enter the Berry Street Education Model, which we found aligned perfectly with our goals. These goals include not only improving student learning but also adapting teaching methods to meet the needs of today’s diverse learners and embedding our values into school culture.

What truly sets the Berry Street Model apart is its holistic approach to education. Backed by 140 years of educational experience and decades of research, this model empowers teachers with tools to support students’ self-regulation, foster healthy relationships and improve overall wellbeing—all while nurturing academic success. It recognises that student success is not solely tied to rigorous academics but also hinges on the classroom environment, teacher-student relationships and, importantly, staff wellbeing. At its core, the Berry Street Model provides educators with practical strategies to create environments where students feel safe, engaged and supported. By equipping teachers with skills to foster self-regulation and social-emotional learning, the model helps reduce classroom disruptions, enhances focus and ultimately leads to better academic outcomes.

Thus at the beginning of 2024, staff across the whole School commenced a two-year professional development program to integrate the Berry Street Education Model into our practice. The program consists of four days of training covering five domains – Body, Stamina, Engagement and Character, all anchored by the fifth domain, Relationship. These domains are pedagogical lenses, each reflecting understanding and evidence-based practice that inform learning. Although every training day has a different focus, each provides a range of learning opportunities that include teacher-centred approaches to strengthen student selfregulation and rapport, as well as teacher behaviours integrated with pedagogical approaches.

Another critical element of the program is that it recognises that the wellbeing of teachers is equally critical to a thriving school environment. Teaching can be immensely rewarding, but it also comes with significant challenges. Whether it’s the demands of managing a classroom or the emotional toll of helping students navigate their difficulties, teachers face unique pressures that can lead to burnout, stress and even compassion fatigue. The Berry Street Model acknowledges this reality and prioritises teacher self-care as a vital part of its framework. Educators are encouraged to regularly assess their stress levels and practise self-care to maintain their mental and emotional health. By doing so, we can stay energised, motivated and compassionate, creating a positive feedback loop where both students and staff benefit from a more supportive school community.

To date, we have completed two days of training, with the remaining days scheduled for the first half of 2025. We recognise that while external professional development is valuable, the true value of professional learning lies in

how we can work together to adapt this learning to our unique setting. Therefore, throughout the year we have also engaged in many staff meetings, brainstorming and discussing how we can embed our learning in our practice, with the ultimate aim of not just following the model but creating a ‘Camberwell way’ of operating, where everyone shares a common language, consistent strategies and a unified sense of purpose. This collaborative effort is key to building a stronger, more cohesive school community where everyone feels valued and supported. It has been exciting to behold the quality of conversations, innovation and planning and the invigorating level of engagement in these meetings, as well as the insightful comments from students who already notice the positive impact within various school environments.

Ms Ciara Chaomhanach, Mrs Janine de Paiva, Ms Elizabeth Grant and Dr Samantha Hutton

News from�round the School

Grandparents’ Day

We welcomed more than 650 grandparents and special friends to our annual intergenerational event with students from all year levels eagerly awaiting their arrival. Guests enjoyed morning tea, followed by a wonderful concert. After the musical performances, our students took their grandparents on a tour of our School, showing them the classrooms, library and all the places where they learn and grow. It was a very special morning for all involved.

Father’s Day at Junior School

Father’s Day celebrations started early for our Junior School dads and carers with a special morning at the School Cafeteria and JTO. They enjoyed breakfast, fun games and a personal photo with their sons to capture the moment.

Elva Allan Memorial Concert

This incredible concert showcased our music scholars in small mixed-year groups, highlighting their virtuosity across various instruments in a chamber music program. For the first time, the Elva Allan Orchestra, led by guest conductor Fabian Russell, performed Beethoven’s entire First Symphony—a rare and impressive achievement for a school. The standard of playing was superb and we congratulate the students and their teachers on this remarkable accomplishment.

British Parliamentary Debating Competition

Congratulations to Year 10 students Maxwell Korganow and Dylan Hodges, who won the 2024 Intermediate British Parliamentary Debating Competition hosted by the Debaters Association of Victoria. British Parliamentary (BP) style debates have four teams of two speakers who debate a topic. Two teams debate in the affirmative role as the Government, while two debate in the negative role as the Opposition. After the debate, the adjudicator ranks teams from first to fourth.

House Chess

Senior School students recently competed in House Chess, where points were accrued across five rounds in the Year 9/10 and Year 11/12 divisions. It was a tight race between Bridgland, Derham, Clifford and Schofield, with Bridgland taking victory in both divisions and retaining the shield for another year.

Science Olympiads

Congratulations to Owen Wu (Year 11) and Leo Buckle (Year 11) who have been invited to attend the Australian Science Olympiads for Biology and Environmental Science respectively. The Australian Science Olympiads are a staged science enrichment program for highly motivated students in Australian high schools.

Duke of Edinburgh Award

Congratulations to Timothy Lee (Year 11, Silver Award), Alexander Lam (Year 10, Bronze Award) and Jason Kua (Year 11, Bronze Award) on their Duke of Edinburgh accomplishments. The Duke of Edinburgh Award is about individual choices and setting goals to improve oneself with the support and guidance of people skilled in those areas.

Evatt Cup Model United Nations

Recently, several of our Senior School students competed in the prestigious Evatt Model United Nations, one of Australia’s largest debating competitions. Three of our teams made it to the Grand Final – Justin Kwan and Alan Wang (Year 11), Ethan Ong and Chris Lu (Year 12), and Tommy Auwardt and William Lardner (Year 12).

A huge congratulations to Tommy and William for being crowned Victorian Evatt Grand Finalists and winning the Evatt Cup.

The Alfred Hospital Program

In the final week of Term 3, a group of Senior School students had the valuable opportunity to attend the Alfred Hospital’s P.A.R.T.Y. (Prevent Alcohol and Risk-Related Trauma in Youth) program.

This full-day program offered a combination of presentations and hands-on activities, allowing students to visit the Emergency and Trauma Centre, ICU, and Burns and Trauma Wards. These visits provided a powerful insight into the real-life consequences of injury for patients, their families and healthcare professionals. The day concluded with an inspiring injury survivor sharing their personal story, highlighting the lasting impact of trauma on their life and loved ones.

Music Achievements

Congratulations to Year 10 violinist Nathan Wayne, who was awarded his LMusA with distinction. Nathan presented a challenging program of works by Mendelssohn, Bloch, Mozart and Beethoven. Examiners were impressed with Nathan’s personal conviction and a strong sense of interpretative insight supported by a wide-ranging technical and expressive resource. Bravo Nathan!

Congratulations to double bassists Charles Taliadoros (Year 11 – pictured right) and Derek Wei (Year 9), who successfully auditioned for programs run by the Australian Youth Orchestra. Charles will attend the National Music Camp in Adelaide in January, while Derek will attend the Young Symphonists program in Canberra in April. Well done to you both!

Tennis Days

During the Term 3 holidays, Camberwell Grammar Sport hosted two exciting events as part of the Tennis program.

Tennis Fun Day, held at the Ian Mason Tennis Centre, was a free event open to all CGS students playing tennis in the Summer AGSV season. The day featured specialised coaching, Game Sense education, a Tennis Pathways presentation from Tennis Australia, matchplay and a BBQ provided by Friends of Tennis.

Tennis Performance Day was held at the National Tennis Centre and Rod Laver Arena. Open to students in the ‘A’ teams, Firsts and Seconds, the day offered an exclusive inner sanctum tour of Rod Laver Arena, a US College Pathway Presentation, and an internal doubles mini-tournament, with the final played on Showcourt 3.

French Speaking Competition

Nearly 100 participants from Years 6 to 12, and some of our talented staff, showcased their language skills in the 2025 Prenez la Parole French Speaking Competition. Outstanding creativity and talent was displayed through speeches, raps, poems and monologues and the assessors had difficulty allocating prizes.

Year 6 Mancave

Year 6 students participated in workshops with Mancave. The program encouraged students to look at the transition from Year 6 to Year 7 and the feelings surrounding it. Friendship was a key topic of discussion for this group. They enjoyed ‘shouting out’ their friends and expressing how important each other has been during their time at CGS. They look forward to maintaining these friendships inside and outside of school.

Lifers Morning Tea

We recently welcomed back the parents and Year 12 students who began their Camberwell Grammar journey in Pre-Prep in 2011. The occasion was marked with a special morning tea in the Junior School and a nostalgic tour of the Pre-Prep classroom. Students enjoyed spending time with the current Pre-Preps on the playground, no doubt sparking memories of their early days at the School.

Chinese Reading Awards

Last term, the Chinese Language Teachers Association of Victoria held its annual Chinese Reading Awards at the University of Melbourne. Nearly 50 Year 7 students and 60 Year 8 students from various schools across Victoria, who had earned High Distinctions, participated in the awards. Connor Chris and Pasan Saranasuriya (Year 7), along with Charlie Malic and Ashton Bedoya (Year 8) represented Camberwell Grammar. After intense competition, Connor and Pasan placed 5th and 7th respectively, with only 8 students across all schools receiving encouragement awards.

GALESS TiltShift Challenge and Conference

Building on our participation last year, we once again engaged in the Global Alliance for Leading Edge Schools in Sustainability (GALESS) TiltShift Challenge. Four of our Year 10 students collaborated on a significant research project, constructing a 5,000-word academic paper exploring the quality of water in the Yarra River.

The culmination of the students’ year-long investigation was showcased at a four-day conference in Melbourne,

with CGS hosting the final day. The School welcomed students and staff from Germany, Thailand, Singapore and Melbourne. The conference provided a platform for them to present their findings to peers from local and international schools. Through this project and conference, students contribute to CGS’s commitment to environmental stewardship and global sustainability while stepping into roles as young scientists and advocates, poised to make a genuine impact.

AGSV Athletics Championships

One of last term’s sporting highlights was the AGSV Athletics Championships. Despite facing tough weather conditions, our Camberwell Grammar team delivered a standout performance, climbing from 5th place before the final events to secure an impressive 2nd overall. Congratulations to all involved for their incredible determination and effort!

Victorian Interschool Snowsports Downhill Championship

Five Junior School students competed in the 2024 Victorian Interschool Downhill Snowsports Championship at Mt Buller. The boys represented the School with great honour and determination. Our Junior Team consisted of Ryan Xu-Zhang (5B), Owen Zhao (5B), Isaac Huang (4A), Arvin Arminazad (4A) and Jake Yang (4A). Special congratulations to Arvin who took home 1st and 2nd medals.

Junior School AGSV Athletics Championships

On Friday 11 October, 47 Year 4, 5 and 6 students competed in the annual Junior School AGSV Athletics Championships held at Bill Stewart Athletics Track, Burwood. The team performed extremely well throughout the day, showing great effort and determination. Congratulations to all involved!

South Yarra District Athletics Championship

On Tuesday 3 September, a team of 35 Year 4, 5 and 6 students competed in the South Yarra District Schools Championships at Doncaster Athletics Track. All competitors gave their best efforts and achieved some great results. Camberwell finished 4th overall as a school. Congratulations to Dion Trevlopoulos (6M) who broke the District record for Long Jump, with a jump of 4.38m, shattering the previous one of 4.35m.

Exit24 VCE �rt and Design Exhibition

The annual VCE Exit exhibition elicits a range of emotions felt intensely by both the exhibiting artist and the viewer.

To the artist and designer, it is the culmination of a year-long exploration of ideas, materials and techniques. A year that is filled with self-doubt, questioning one’s capacity to effectively communicate, to produce something ‘good’. So why do our young creatives create? Why do they select Visual Art and Design subjects? They know these subjects are incredibly demanding.

It’s because the urge to be creative is strong inside them. To communicate using a visual language and go deeper than the literal – to provide an alternative vision. But to do this, a young artist at Camberwell Grammar School needs to know they are safe to go on such a journey. Sharing their

ideas and divulging their deepest feelings and personal stories shows great courage and requires trust.

At the opening of this year’s Exit24 art and design exhibition, we were delighted to view the products of such a trust. Paintings, drawings, computer and AI-generated works, and ceramic sculptures both delicate and robust. 3-dimensional design models and associated designs to excite. We, the viewer and the School, are beneficiaries of their need to create.

Congratulations and thank you.

Mr David Williamson Head of Art

Kelvin-Le

Joe Hu Elias Zakkas

Domenic Bozzone

Declan McCabe

Sebastian Kamleshwaran

Jamison Smith

Charlie Williams

Ben Radelczyk

Kaiser Tan

Parker Rush

Biennial Concert at Hamer Hall

Marking the start of the end for so many, the Biennial Concert was a bittersweet yet monumental night for the Camberwell Grammar community. For Dr Hicks, it was his last Biennial Concert as Headmaster after almost 20 years. For us in Year 12, it set off a diminishing timer to signal the end of our time at CGS.

As one of the most anticipated events on the School calendar, many months of hard work were poured in from both teachers and students. Featuring a vast array of ensembles from the Junior to Senior School, the entire School community gathered for one night in Hamer Hall to showcase the ultimate extent of the CGS spirit.

One of the many highlights was the Junior School Choir performing Dear Editor by Juliana Kay. Delving into the archives of the School’s student publications, the specially commissioned work put a hilarious twist on the witty yet thoughtful editorial submissions of the Junior School students.

Undertaking one of the orchestra’s most ambitious projects, Mr Bishop and Dr Hicks transformed Beethoven’s iconic 5th Symphony into a sports game! Armed with a whistle and a red card, Dr Hicks kept the game going between both the Symphony Orchestra and Mr Bishop as players fought it out (literally) with the conductor. Other highlights included Highlights from Lord of the Rings performed by the Middle School Concert Band and a hilarious take on Joe Hisaishi’s Merry Go Round of Life as one of the many amusing gap fillers.

Concluding the night, the School Choir showcased its colossal power, singing Faure’s Requiem and Hubert Parry’s Jerusalem, a truly passionate and emotional moment featuring the entire school. As the choir stood in silence, Dr Hicks took centre stage to lead us in our unofficial song, Anthem from Chess, a surprise that brought a tear to the eyes of many.

Lachlan Wong Captain of Music

‘The entire School community gathered for one night in Hamer Hall to showcase the ultimate extent of the CGS spirit.’

Music AcademyHighlights

The Music Academy students have worked with sincerity and commitment this year and we are enormously proud of all they have achieved.

One of the many highlights of 2024 was the Kingussie Trio’s appearance at Musica Viva’s Strike A Chord Grand Final and their subsequent broadcast on 3MBSFM.

Below are cellist Gabriel Liu’s thoughts about the experience.

Ms Rachel Atkinson Head of the Music Academy

August 31, 2.58 pm. This was the time that my trio, the Kingussie Trio performed the first movement of Smetana’s Piano Trio on the glorious stage of the Melbourne Recital Centre (MRC) at the Grand Final of the 2024 Strike A Chord Competition. I cannot express how greatly anticipated this moment was, as performing at the MRC was a dream come true for my trio.

There was something purely magical about the moments spent backstage. There was a shared energy of many wonderful musicians waiting to step into the resonant acoustics of one of the most remarkable venues in the country.

It brought the greatest joy to listen to other brilliant ensembles from all over the country. Each group brought their unique flavour and expertise, creating a real sense of honour to be playing in the Grand Final of Strike A Chord.

For us, getting to know Smetana has been a particularly meaningful part of this journey. We have enjoyed working together, week after week with our tutor, Ms Rachel Atkinson early in the morning and at lunchtime. We have also had the honour of playing to Christine Johnson, Danny Gu, Sophie Rowell, Isin Cakmakcioglu and Caroline Almonte. Smetana’s music has become like an old friend, familiar and deeply rewarding, and has taught our trio not to just play for ourselves, but for each other.

Looking ahead, we are excited about what comes next. As Victorian prize winners, we performed a live broadcast and were interviewed on 3MBS. We performed another movement of Smetana and a short work by Julian Yu. Next year, we can’t wait to get stuck into Brahms. I look forward to these new challenges with David Chon (Year 8) and Dillon Chan (Year 7) as we continue to develop together, getting older at the School and beyond with a shared vision for what we can create.

The Strike A Chord Competition and its MRC final have been a perfect setting for this journey, and my trio can’t wait to experience the musical adventures that we will see in the coming years.

Gabriel Liu (Year 8) Cellist, The Kingussie Trio

House Drama Competition

In October, Senior School students from the eight Houses gathered in The Middleton Theatre for the 2024 House Drama Competition. Jonah Guorgi, Captain of Drama 2025, shares the highlights, humour and creativity from this year’s competition.

Countless hours of planning and rehearsing culminated in a day full of laughter and last-minute changes. This year’s House Drama competition called upon Year 11, 10 and 9 students to make a 13-minute ‘Mini Musical’. With only a few months to prepare, students poured their hearts and souls into writing, directing and sometimes conducting these musicals.

In the first round of performances, each house got only one chance to show the adjudicator, Ms Nina Rossini, why they were top-4 material. Bridgland performed a true-to-thesource performance of Mean Girls, with a well-balanced combination of comedy and plot. Steven put on a hilarious adaptation of Mamma Mia, featuring a vastly different story, some impressive stagecraft and crowd-loving snippets of classic ABBA songs. Using a small cast and maximising the use of the rear projector, Summons performed The Wizard of Oz, which brought laughter to the crowd, particularly Toto the Dog and an original song about Scientology. Macneil used copious amounts of green makeup to create their adaptation of Shrek, featuring a prize-winning performance of the song Donkey Pot Pie. Derham created a serious and complicated performance of Groundhog Day, featuring a crowd-loving toss of the groundhog across the stage. Schofield performed Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, including an eccentric Willy Wonka and clever use of lighting. Aladdin, performed by Robinson House, was true to the original and included a spectacular performance of A Whole New World. Last but not least, Clifford took their adaptation of La La Land to the stage. Featuring smart use of props and a large cast, Clifford’s performance wowed both the adjudicator and Mr Stocker.

As the Houses battled each other and the dangerously punctual closing of the curtain, only four could make it to the evening performances. Facing a tough decision, the adjudicator ultimately decided that Steven, Robinson, Summons and Clifford would make it through.

With one afternoon to polish their productions, the four houses prepared for one last performance. This year was the

first time that the four finalists would be re-adjudicated on the evening instead of the placings already being decided.

In a deserving fourth place, Robinson took their newly shiny production of Aladdin to the stage once more with a vastly more heartfelt performance of A Whole New World Suffering from a reduced cast due to the Travis Scott performance on the same night, Robinson was forced to fill in the missing members of their cast. With all the obstacles they faced, Robinson persevered and managed to put on a great final performance.

Coming up in a well-earned third place, Summons returned to the stage with as much enthusiasm as they left it. Special congratulations to the Summons lead Charlie Weickhardt (Year 11), who was awarded ‘Best Actor’.

Following their crowd-favourite performance earlier in the day, Steven had a high bar to meet. But the House proved they had what it took, and once again put on a spectacular performance, more than meeting the bar they had set for themselves. That, combined with the now smoother set changes following hours of practice, earned Steven a well-deserved second place.

But, after spending every minute they could between performances practising and rehearsing, Clifford returned once more to give a new-andimproved production of La La Land. With wonderful performances by leads Frank Roodenburg (Year 9) and Thomas Newman-Thurlby (Year 9), Clifford came out on top, winning first place.

Congratulations to all the directors, writers, stage managers and technicians for the efforts they put in to make these performances possible. And congratulations to all the actors, both returning and new, for putting all the time and heart they did into their performances.

Jonah Guorgi Captain of Drama 2025

Spring Sport

Water Polo and Athletics Wrap

Camberwell Grammar’s Spring sports season showcased exceptional dedication, skill and perseverance across both the water polo and athletics teams.

The 2024 water polo season was a standout, with over 80 students competing across different levels. Each team – Open, Intermediate and Junior – demonstrated growth, camaraderie and resilience. Early morning practices became routine, and the players’ enthusiasm and commitment were evident to coaches and the broader School community.

Throughout the season, water polo athletes sharpened their skills, adjusted to various venues and developed versatile techniques. The Open teams led the charge with several impressive victories, highlighting the hard work invested in training. Intermediate players showed marked improvement, setting a solid foundation for future achievements, while the Junior teams, many new to the sport, demonstrated inspiring enthusiasm and laid the groundwork for continued success.

Special mentions to Hugh Cran (Year 12), Lachlan Rundell (Year 10) and Lucas Rodriguez (Year 12), who were selected for the AGSV Water Polo Team.

On September 11, over 50 Camberwell athletes competed in the 2024 AGSV Championships at Lakeside Stadium. Despite ominous weather, the team was determined to place high on the leaderboard, motivated by a tradition of strong performances. The day started solidly with the 4x400 relay team securing a respectable fourth place, setting the tone for a competitive outing.

While the morning was challenging, with minor setbacks in hurdles and a disqualification from an earlier relay, the team rallied in the face of adversity. When rain and lightning caused delays, Camberwell came alive. Josh Tallis (Year 10) dominated the track, winning both the 200m and 400m events, while middle-distance runners Josh Carlin (Year 11), Lachlan Baxter (Year 7) and Harvey Williams (Year 10) swept the 800m, taking first, second and third respectively. The distance teams also shone, with the Under 13s winning the 1500m event and the Open boys clinching the 3km.

The field events brought further success. Shen Rong (Year 11) secured a first and second place in long and triple jump, while James Burgess (Year 9) added two medals to the tally. In the Open category, leadership shone through as Vice Captain Lachie McGowan (Year 12) and Captain Zac Matters (Year 12) ensured high finishes across all field events.

As the relays approached, Camberwell found themselves in third place, narrowly behind Mentone. The Under 14 and Under 17 relay teams rose to the occasion, each securing gold and energising the supporters. The final race, the Open 4x100m relay, was crucial to securing second place. The team of Harry Clarke, Ewan Lewis, Victor Shao and Lachlan Lewis (all Year 12) held their ground, clinching second place overall for Camberwell.

Two school records were shattered during the event. Lachlan Baxter set a new mark in the U13 1500m, though his time was just shy of the AGSV record, and the Under 14 4x100m team set a new school record at 48.25 seconds.

Spotlight on Sport with Nathan Bower

Legacy in Action

The impending retirement of Dr Paul Hicks as Headmaster of Camberwell Grammar after 20 years in the role has allowed the School community to reflect on his wonderful career and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

The challenge for any school is to develop each student holistically. Striking a meaningful balance between academics, sport and the arts is underpinned by the overarching principle of developing ‘good people’. Sport is an important cog in the ongoing pursuit of student development and the benefits gained through sport participation and competition.

To this end, Dr Hicks has actively invested in sport during his tenure. Our state-of-the-art Sports Centre is a tangible reminder of the level of financial investment the School has made in sport, however, it is the supporting framework that sits behind a facility that tells the true story. While facilities and equipment can generate enthusiasm and awe, the real investment is felt by the people who utilise the space – the students and staff.

Sport is compulsory for CGS students, and so too is the engagement of staff. This commitment to sport doesn’t come cheap. Associated costs around facilities, equipment, coaching and transport have seen some schools reduce their sports offerings while CGS has continued to facilitate involvement. The importance of sport in the holistic development of students is too great to diminish our commitment.

Dr Hicks has actively lived his commitment to the sport program at CGS which is demonstrated in many ways:

• Leadership and support to recruit quality staff and coaches to enhance our programs

• Support of industry standards on equipment and facilities

• Associated Grammar Schools Victoria (AGSV) Chair 2019-2024

• AGSV Secretary 2014-2019

• Support of a sport option for all students

• Regular attendance and community visibility at season launches, in-season fixtures and end-ofseason presentations.

The rewards for any investment of time, money and resources are generally assessed in the outcomes derived from that investment. Certainly from a pure results perspective, Camberwell Grammar has experienced amazing sporting results over Dr Hicks’ tenure peaking over the past few years with Firsts Premierships across Swimming, Athletics, Tennis, Badminton, Hockey, Table Tennis, Basketball and Cricket and consistently high performance across all sports.

While our buildings and programs are the visible examples of Dr Hicks’ commitment to sport, arguably his real legacy will be measured by the respectful, confident, humble and kind young men Camberwell Grammar nurtures and supports. Young men who have a healthy self-belief and an understanding that effort, attitude and the power of collaboration can positively impact the world. Traits developed through a lived experience across the school sport journey.

Dr Hicks leaves discernible footprints in the sporting history of Camberwell Grammar School. His leadership is a masterclass in personal action positively impacting a community. Spectemur Agendo – By Our Deeds may we be known.

Mr Nathan Bower

Senior Head of Sport – Strategy and Programs

Community Connections

The John Mallinson Organ Scholarship

Most students know the name Mallinson as the Music Building. This building was named to honour Mr John Mallinson who pioneered the development of music at Camberwell Grammar from 1964 until 1987, as Director of Music. John led a double career as an educator and organist. He was organist at St Mark’s Camberwell for many years where he built up an excellent choir. John left CGS to accept the post of Organist and Director of Music at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Melbourne.

The John Mallinson Organ Scholarship was established in 2011 to encourage students to learn the organ. Congratulations to the 2025 recipient, Ethan Zhao (Year 8).

Schofield Great Debate

Schofield recently hosted their annual charity event, The Great Debate, where students debate against teachers. The topic this year was: That CGS teachers should get paid more. Naturally, the teachers argued the negative case and while the students offered little in the way of arguments, their bold presentation sealed their victory.

Thank you to all who participated in the event and supported the chosen charity, HoMie – a Melbournebased streetwear label and social enterprise. 100% of HoMie’s profits go towards achieving its mission: to support young people affected by homelessness or hardship. You can still show support by visiting their website: https://homie.com.au/

leadership. The program aims to inspire young people to use their enthusiasm, creativity and energy to begin a lifelong commitment to giving through activities that have a positive impact on the communities they live and will, one day, work in.

Camberwell Grammar School has been involved for more than 15 years and the program has provided many Year 10 students with an invaluable experience. The Foundation appoints experienced mentors who guide the students through the grant-making process including assessments of funding applications, interviewing potential grant recipients and making funding recommendations. For many years, well-known philanthropist, Mr Paul Wheelton (1973), has mentored our CGS team. The program

Koala Kids

Middle School students participated in a sausage sizzle and the annual Koala Kids Walkathon through the beautiful parks of Canterbury and Deepdene. Students enjoyed a relaxed walk with their friends, all while supporting the critical work of Koala Kids in raising funds for families caring for children with cancer. This year, we welcomed Mrs Amanda Mandie, Executive Director of Koala Kids, who launched the Koala Kids Cup to be awarded to the House raising the most funds. The inaugural winner was Schofield, while the total raised by all students was $9291.30.

fundraised $7,500 with the remainder provided by the foundation. They visited three charities which all operate under the ‘Homelessness’ banner and listened to presentations by each before deciding on their grant allocation.

Students in this program developed an understanding of what philanthropy is as well as the great need in our local community for assistance with many worthwhile causes. The experience showed them that there is a mountain of work being conducted by many selfless individuals and organisations. We hope to continue our association with the program in the future.

Mr Andrew Warne Head of Commerce

Alumni News

Beryl and Jack Jacobs Travel Award

Brian Kim (2016 School Captain) received an early career researcher travel award – the Beryl and Jack Jacobs Travel Award – from the Skipper-Jacobs Charitable Trust. This enabled him to build on existing research collaborations with Northwestern University and Stanford University during his PhD (Medical Sciences) for two months in mid-2024.

Brian had the opportunity to lead a lab study about shoulder pain with a focus on advancing ultrasound and MRI analysis. While at Northwestern University, he was also invited to teach shoulder assessment in the Doctor of Physiotherapy course.

New Porsche Club President

The Porsche Club of Victoria is proud to announce the appointment of Russell Sturzaker (1968) as their new President. Russell brings with him a wealth of expertise and experience in the not-for-profit sector, along with his vast knowledge of association management.

Russell is one of the club’s founding members, having joined the club at its inaugural meeting on 26 August 1975. His appointment will see him lead the club into its 50th Anniversary Year in 2025, as Chair of the Anniversary Committee.

Russell assumed his new role as Club President following the AGM on Tuesday 8 October 2024. He looks forward to working with the committee to introduce new ideas and initiatives to the club.

Alumni Profile

Freddy Branson (2022)

When I walked out of my final VCE exam two years ago, I had no idea what my future would hold. I have always made it a priority to take every available opportunity. However, I never could have anticipated that this might take me to the other side of the world.

As it stands, I’m now in my sophomore year of study at the University of Johns Hopkins where I am majoring in Classical Flute Performance with a minor in Economics – a position that was barely imaginable just a couple of years ago.

Starting flute at the age of three, music has defined much of my life. I spent a lot of time during school in rehearsal rooms, preparing for whichever next concert was approaching. In saying this, I wasn’t always sure that music would be what I ultimately chose to pursue. For a short period, I undertook my studies at Monash University in a Law/Commerce double degree.

However, I was determined not to close off my options. So when the opportunity presented itself for me to move to America, I took it. Since arriving in Baltimore, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing several things that would have been impossible otherwise.

The first of these has been the ability to study at a worldclass institution under some of the best professors in the world. One of the things that drove me the most to make the move across the globe was the chance to continue to pursue my education in both music and broader academic areas at one of the premier schools in the US. Learning from so many accomplished individuals, in particular, my flute professor, Marina Piccinini – one of the world’s leading soloists – has opened my eyes to the level of expertise I can strive for.

In addition to this, I have found there to be a vast variety of different activities and extra-curricular groups to be involved in that enhance the overall educational experience. During this time, I have been able to engage with my interests in unique ways such as becoming a writer and editor for the Hopkins Newsletter. Outside of the school environment, I travelled to Switzerland over the summer break to compete in the MPIMC International Concerto Competition. I competed against people from various backgrounds, and was fortunate enough to leave with First Prize, ultimately winning the competition.

Looking towards the future, I’m excited to continue my educational journey while becoming even more involved in all avenues that I possibly can. I would encourage the same for everyone who is also going through school – you never know what could be waiting around the corner.

From the �rchives

The departure of a Headmaster from Camberwell Grammar is an occasion of commemoration and celebration for the end of a successful career in education. Dr Hicks has demonstrated that he is an acute educational innovator who presented many opportunities to a diverse student body.

The Mont Albert Road campus has also changed significantly during his period as Headmaster, 2005-24, marked by the opening of a new William Angliss Building (2007), the extensive Wheelton Centre (2013) and the Sports Centre incorporating the All Souls Chapel (2017). They will all be permanent reminders of the Hicks years as will the recent restoration and official opening of ‘Dorset’ as the School’s specialist art gallery this year. There is much to celebrate about the structural progress of Camberwell Grammar over the last two decades.

Over the last 138 years, there have been other occasions when the School had cause to celebrate similar progress made under the guidance of earlier headmasters as the physical structures of Camberwell Grammar were developed. The church hall building at Camberwell Junction was a modest beginning in 1886, but the following year saw a move to Fermanagh Road, Prospect Hill, allowing Headmaster Taylor to construct a notable school residence alongside wooden outbuildings used as classrooms. Shelters for ponies and buggies were even constructed as ‘stable accommodation to cater for boys commuting from areas beyond walking distance’.

These facilities were leased to other educational institutions once an economically-pressed Camberwell Grammar returned to the junction in 1897, but by 1908 improved conditions allowed Headmaster Hall to relocate to Burke Hill. Here, a fine school residence in Kintore Street overlooked an extensive site on the opposite side of Burke Road with purpose-built classrooms that, by the standards of the day, were state-of-the-art – all allowing a vista towards the ‘golden west’ as Mr Hall called it in the School Song he composed c.1917.

Yet, by the 1930s there seemed little to celebrate as the School struggled with the effects of the Great Depression. The philanthropic intervention of William Angliss allowed the acquisition of the ‘Roystead’ campus in 1934 and the construction of what later became known as the ‘William Angliss Building’ in 1935 and a new Preparatory School building in 1936. Unfortunately, the austerity of this decade and the following wartime rigours prevented further developments under Headmaster Tonkin, even hamstringing proposals for an extensive War Memorial Wing in 1946.

Post-war financial difficulties were not resolved until the mid-1950s, allowing the Reverend T.H. Timpson (1955-66) to overhaul the campus in a burst of building activity that would not be surpassed until the Hicks years. The Timpson era saw the erection of the Memorial Hall (1958), a new classroom wing (1961), a science block (1963) and the E.O. Romcke Memorial Library in the same year.

Timpson’s successor, David Dyer, continued the program of physical enhancement, presiding over the construction of a state-of-the-art L.W. Weickhardt Library

The Fermanagh Road School residence – the only surviving structure from the earlier campuses of Camberwell Grammar, 1886-1935.

and Resources Centre (1971), new wings for the Angliss Building and the demise of the old wooden gymnasium that had been transported from Burke Hill in 1935 in favour of the new Physical Education Centre (1974). ‘Kingussie’ was soon acquired to serve as an Asian Studies Centre and ‘Norge’ joined the School community in 1981 as the redeveloped Junior School.

There were still some gaps in the facilities of CGS when Colin Black became the eighth headmaster in 1987, but the construction of an extensive science block in 1991 was an important step in broadening study opportunities for what would eventually be known as STEM. Mr Black was also the keenest advocate of the arts since one of his predecessors, Michael Searle (1950-54). One of his lasting testimonies was the Performing Arts Centre opened in 1997, including an auditorium that would eventually bear his name. Further Senior School classroom expansions also followed in 2004 including an impressive new Weickhardt Library.

Nevertheless, despite these campus developments since 1935, when Dr Hicks assumed the headmastership in 2005 there remained several infrastructure issues to be addressed. The ambitious Wheelton Centre was able to incorporate the 1991 science block and to expand Senior School accommodation, while the new Angliss Building left scope for the redevelopment of the site of its iconic but tired 1935 predecessor in 2017 with the construction of the Sports Centre. Therefore, visitors to the Camberwell Grammar of today can celebrate a campus with excellent facilities serving every aspect of school life.

The earlier campuses of the School are gone, with only the Fermanagh Road residence still standing, but a chronological reminder of the past remains at the heart of our present site – ‘Roystead’ was completed in 1886, the same year that those sixty-six initial Grammarians (many from Canterbury) first assembled in the St John’s church hall only a short distance away. As so often in history, the wheel would eventually turn full circle.

Dr David Bird

School Historian and Archivist

The 1958 Memorial Hall by Barbara Peake – the School’s first proper on-site assembly hall built at the insistence of Headmaster Timpson.

Community Events

School and Parent Events

OPEN DAY – SATURDAY 12 OCTOBER 2024

It takes a community! Thank you to everyone who visited, supported and participated in our annual Open Day in October. An enormous number of visitors came through our School on what was a beautiful Spring day. Meanwhile, many parents and students participated in different stalls and activities. There was such a buzz around the campus, as everyone enjoyed open classroom demonstrations, music performances, delicious food and lots more.

OCGA Events

OCGA DINNER – FRIDAY 30 AUGUST 2024

The OCGA Dinner was held at The Langham Melbourne. The event was masterfully hosted by Mr Geoffrey Gong (School Captain 2020), while Mr Nick Schildberger (1997) warmly welcomed alumni and current staff. Mr Cooper Carbone (School Captain 2023) led the Grace.

Dr Paul Hicks gave a heartfelt and engaging speech, reflecting on his early days at Camberwell Grammar School 26 years ago and the positive changes he has implemented during his 20-year tenure as Headmaster. He also acknowledged the School Captains he has worked with, many of whom were present to honour him.

The night concluded with the Calling of the Years, where Mr Irving Lenton (1962) was recognised for his longest association with the School, having begun in 1948. The evening was capped off with spirited renditions of the School Song, the Sports Song, and Anthem from Chess under the direction of Mr Trevor Henley (1969, former Director of Music) and accompanied by Mr Ben Bishop (1996, Head of Music).

CUFFLINK PRESENTATION – MONDAY 21 OCTOBER 2024

Fifteen alumni fathers and two grandfathers, along with the President of the OCGA and the Head of Community and Development, welcomed the Year 12 students into the OCGA by presenting them with 2024 cufflinks. It was a special moment to have Mr Graeme Ballard (1959) in attendance to greet his grandson. Graeme initiated the cufflink presentation during his time as President of the OCGA.

40 YEAR REUNION (CLASS OF 1984) – FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER 2024

Classmates from 1984 came together for their 40 Year Reunion. It was a wonderful evening filled with reconnecting with old friends, and many took the opportunity to tour the School and see how much has changed since their days at CGS. One attendee remarked that despite the years that have passed, the camaraderie, familiarity and mutual loyalty among them remain as strong as ever.

Members of the Camberwell Grammar community gathered for breakfast to hear from Mr Don McLardy OAM (1975) and Mr Kimon Taliadoros (1985), who shared their experiences as leaders in business, sports and charitable organisations. They highlighted how their time as students playing hockey, AFL and soccer at CGS has positively influenced their careers. Don and Kimon discussed the parallels between business, sports and charity, emphasising that passionate people and careful planning are essential in all areas. They believe that openness, honesty and actively listening to everyone – especially the quieter voices – are crucial for building a successful team.

60 YEAR LUNCH (CLASS OF 1964 AND PRIOR) – WEDNESDAY 13 NOVEMBER 2024

Alumni gathered for the 60 Year Lunch, a special event celebrating those who finished at CGS in 1964 or earlier. As part of the occasion, members of the Class of 1964 were presented with commemorative cufflinks to mark their milestone and welcome them to their first 60 Year Lunch.

Dr Paul Hicks addressed the group for the final time, introducing incoming Principal, Mr Ben Jeacocke. Mr Irving Lenton (1962) said Grace and expressed gratitude to Paul for his dedicated service on behalf of Old Camberwell Grammarians.

The tables were beautifully decorated with posies made from cuttings from the School’s gardens, adding a personal touch to the event.

After the first game was played in rainy conditions, the sun broke through for a day of friendly yet competitive lawn bowls. Alumni and current and past staff participated in a round-robin competition designed to encourage networking and foster connections.

recognised as

OCGA LAWN BOWLS DAY – SUNDAY 17 NOVEMBER 2024

Mr Nathan Bower was

the best Lead, Mike Cody as the best 2nd, and Peter Hanson (1967) as the best Skip.

Obituaries

ANDREW ARBLASTER (1967)

27 July 1950 – 20 August 2024

JAMES KINGSLEY FRANCIS (1955)

16 September 1938 – 15 October 2024

ROBERT GRAY (1987)

9 October 1969 – 18 September 2024

Brother to Terence (1985) and Timothy (1985).

DAVID STANLEY HORSBURGH (1960)

13 December 1942 – 25 September 2024

IAN FRANCIS ROSE (1952)

30 Oct 1934 – 23 June 2024

Brother of Geoff (1950 dec.).

J ANDREW SLADEN (1967)

25 May 1949 – 7 October 2024

Andrew Sladen was born in Liverpool, England in 1949. In the difficult post-Second World War times, his father, Ian, saw better opportunities in Australia and so with his mother Patricia they emigrated in the early 1950s to settle in North Balwyn. His sister, Vicky was born a little later. Andrew’s father was a Master Mariner who bought into the Port Phillip Sea Pilots service, piloting large ships in and out of Port Phillip and Western Port Bays.

Andrew attended Camberwell Grammar School from 1961 until his final year in 1967 when he was Vice Captain of the School.

Andrew was a talented sportsman representing the School in the First XI Cricket team and the Athletics team, being awarded Full Colours for discus and shot put. He captained the First XVIII football team as well as Macneil House. He was very proud of the team in 1967 as they won every game except against Assumption College. In that game, Andrew had a great battle against Kevin Heath who went on to play for Hawthorn and Carlton.

He enjoyed his school days, admiring many teachers, especially Ian Mason and Ron Wootton. There is a report in the 1967 School magazine by Andrew’s mother, Pat Sladen, who was President of the Ladies Auxiliary in that year, which describes the many functions they organised to raise funds for the School and to support the boys.

Andrew was a very capable student, obtaining a Commonwealth Scholarship to then go on to complete an economics degree from Monash University. He played amateur football for Monash and later for Old Camberwell.

A highlight just after leaving school in 1970/71 was to join a ‘cultural tour’ with 17 past students and teachers, led by Ron Wootton, to travel to the UK, Europe, India and Asia. For boys that age it was the trip of a lifetime, seeing the famous sights and establishing lasting friendships.

In 1974 he married Felicity Stokes and they celebrated their 50 th wedding anniversary earlier this year. Felicity’s family lived in Echuca and Andrew loved his many happy stays there with the broader Stokes family. Andrew and Felicity had three children, Nick, Edward and Sarah and latterly enjoyed five grandchildren. Andrew was enormously proud of his family.

His working career began at HC Sleigh (Golden Fleece Petroleum) and then Shell when he was transferred to Sydney in 1983. After several happy years in Sydney, they returned to Melbourne in 1989 and Andrew decided to leave the corporate world to work for himself. With the help of Felicity’s marketing skills, they set up two Kwik Kopy franchised printing businesses in the Melbourne CBD. He operated this business very successfully, moving adeptly with the many technological changes, to the day he died.

Andrew was a dedicated family man and continued to play sports including tennis at Kooyong and Echuca and golf at Royal Melbourne and Flinders Golf Clubs. He was a passionate Hawthorn supporter and fittingly the 1989 AFL Premiership Cup was standing proudly in the church for his funeral service.

Unfortunately, Andrew died suddenly at home and is sadly missed. We extend our sympathy to Felicity and his family.

Brian McPhail (1968)

21 September 1950 – 19 October 2024

RODERICK RAYMOND WHITE (1968)

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