CGS Outlook – Semester 2 2022

THE MAGAZINE OF THE CANBERRA GRAMMAR SCHOOL COMMUNITY

EDITORIAL DETAILS

Editors: Serena Netto

Graphic Designer: Twee Phan

Printer: New Millennium Print

Photography: William Hall Photography, staff and students

Contributions: Thank you to the many people who contributed to CGS Outlook, including the numerous teachers, students, and staff who supplied articles and photos

On the cover: Senior School assembly in the new Snow Concert Hall

© Canberra Grammar School 2023

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

We acknowledge the age-old custodians of the land on which our school stands, the Ngunnawal People.

We offer respect and gratitude to Elders past and present, and affirm our obligation to honour the heritage of countless generations in our on-going care for this special place in which it is our privilege to learn and work.

FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

It is always a privilege to introduce CGS Outlook, but it is a particular pleasure to present this edition that so spectacularly captures the life of our School rebounding in exuberance after the constraints of the pandemic years.

Every edition of CGS Outlook since COVID-19 first emerged in early 2020 has been a tribute to the resilience and optimism of our community, but this volume is testament to a collective spirit unsuppressed; to the energy and optimism of our students; to the unstinting dedication of our staff; and to the passionate support of families and alumni just waiting to burst back in full expression.

It’s hard to believe that recovery could be so swift, or that a year could be so distinctly divided. Despite its many achievements, the first half of the year was dominated by the gruelling impact of widespread illness and absence as the pandemic wave that spread around the world finally swamped the School. Yet, second semester, as featured in this edition, has been a remarkable story of celebration and the return of exciting normality in all dimensions of School life far more quickly and fully than any dared hope.

Our winter sports recaptured the momentum so suddenly curtailed by last year’s lockdown to end the season in record finals. After two years of cancellation and frustration, outdoor education returned in full force with no less than eleven camps in three months that saw hundreds of students expanding their horizons again at last from the mountains to the coast.

Families returned en masse to the campus to enjoy countless community events, from joyous Pre-School Christmas Concerts to the inspiring Year 6 Exhibition and the formal graduation of Year 12. Having celebrated in style in the refurbished Quadrangle, our leaving students then capped the tribulations of their senior years with triumphant IBDP and HSC results, confirming their own determination and outstanding leadership, and affirming once again the strength and trajectory of our academic culture.

Amidst it all, the long-awaited opening of the Snow Concert Hall and new CGS Music Centre brought excitement and more music back to the daily experience of the School than we’ve heard in years. As a magnificent venue for Primary and Senior School assemblies, for the wonderful Yumalundi Concert Series that ran throughout Term 4, and for a delightful array of Christmas celebrations and culmination ceremonies, the Snow Concert Hall gave us the opportunity to enjoy and attest our togetherness when we needed it most.

The return of Presentation Night did the same, drawing the year and a hard chapter of our history to a close in music and song and dance, in the accolades of our award winners, in the eloquent aspirations of our Primary and Senior student leaders, and in the company of a thriving community looking forward to all the opportunities that lie ahead.

Thank you to all who make that the reality of our School. I hope you enjoy reading this record of its spirit as much as I have.

– Justin Garrick, Head of School

Canberra Grammar School proudly announces the launch of “CGS100”, an outline of strategic aspirations to guide the School towards its 100th anniversary in 2029.

Follow the QR code to learn more about the School’s Strategic Plan.

SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

SARVANI GADDIPATI SCHOOL CAPTAIN

I can wholeheartedly say that I would not be the person I am today without CGS. The lessons I learnt, the friends I made, and the adventures I have embarked upon, have shaped me insurmountably. I am grateful for every single member of the school community and so thankful to have been given this opportunity to give back to the place I am lucky enough to call home. But what is a school without the students, the teachers, and even the parents? As such, our initiatives for the next year are about creating a CGS that is perfect for everyone. And as we strive towards a better tomorrow, we want to build a safe community where we all belong and well-being is prioritised.

MILIND MERSON SCHOOL CAPTAIN

To me, leadership means empowering others to succeed in what they love doing. Leadership is supporting my peers through challenges, and celebrating once these challenges are overcome. Leadership is fighting for what our community wants adapted or introduced. Since joining CGS in Year 3, I have been in awe of the countless leaders that have been in the shoes I am now in, and as your Captain, along with my team, I aim to serve this community with diligence, passion and honour - in the same way those before me have. I will wholeheartedly continue to strengthen our communal spirit, fortify the well-being of all students, but most importantly to myself, ensure that each student truly belongs at our school.

VICTORIA SPARK SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAIN

Between sport, music, academics, leadership opportunities, house activities and so much more, this school has consistently challenged me, shaping me as an individual. I have no doubt that over the coming year this role will do exactly that, pushing me out of my comfort zone, asking me to engage with new people and calling me to constantly seek new ways to improve school life and community. I have absolute faith in our leadership team and aim to actively set an example of how to embrace all this school has to offer, leading with novelty, compassion, integrity and dependability. I am so grateful for everything this school has provided me with and know that in the next 12 months, our team will put every effort into making this school the supportive, inclusive environment, that not only celebrates student achievement, but pushes student involvement.

YUTAKA YAMADA SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAIN

My journey at CGS thus far has been filled with a boundless stream of experiences and opportunities that I feel esteemed to have had. The next role I will take on through this journey will be to serve as one of the school Vice-Captains for the coming year, and I could not think of any better way to conclude my final year at CGS. I have seen nothing less than great leadership from my previous years at this school, and I hope to bring the same passion and effort that I observed in the past. With the help of my fellow student leadership team, I aspire to create a community in which everyone can be proud of, and wish to leave a positive impact on the school that will persist for years to come.

2023 SENIOR SCHOOL CAPTAINS

JACK MORRISSEY SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAIN

To enter my fourteenth year at CGS in this role is an honour which I hold with the highest gratitude, as I embrace the opportunity to now serve a school which has acted as a second home to me for my whole life. Throughout my time at this school, I have admired the passion and drive with which the past leaders have constructed this school community. In this role, I will strive to aid in building a community and culture second to none, and to create a school in which each individual belongs and is valued. I will transfer my passion for CGS into this role, to foster growth and change for this school. Until the day that I graduate, it will be my duty to help build a school of pride, in which we do so much more than just learn. In the closing weeks of term 4, we have seen the sparks for an astounding year ahead, and if we carry our momentum into 2023, the school will transform into a place that goes above and beyond what we once were before lockdown.

AUDREY KUAN SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAIN

ROMAN JOHNSON SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAIN

Throughout my time at CGS I have been provided with countless opportunities to engage with the leadership team, the broader community and interact with the students of the school on an individual basis. It has fundamentally shaped me into the person I am and I cannot wait to be able to give back to this school. It is an honour to have been chosen for this role, especially knowing how important it is. For a long time I have admired the previous student leaders of the school, particularly as they have navigated such a difficult few years. Their passion, conviction and kindness was always inspiring and I hope to carry those traits into my own leadership throughout this upcoming year.

I have been incredibly inspired by previous school captains that have demonstrated compassion, dedication and inclusivity. I never truly appreciated the effort that goes into making CGS the place it is, opening students up to endless opportunities in all different areas. I know CGS isn’t perfect, but I will strive with this year’s leadership team to help promote the belonging of the school so that everyone has a place in the CGS community. Post-pandemic, I hope we can revitalise the connections between students, teachers and the wider community that were lost, not only restoring the old CGS culture but making it better. I’m looking forward to working with everyone next year, bringing new ideas to life to help make CGS a place for everyone.

INTRODUCTION TO CAPTAINS’ INITIATIVES

BELONGING

CGS is our home, and we want to make everyone feel included and accepted. This initiative aims to ensure that no student is left behind, and that the culture and differences of all students are celebrated. Through different events celebrating diversity, we hope to showcase the versatility of the culture, identity and life experience that exists within our school. The first point of belonging in the school is within the student houses, and will be facilitated through mentorship programmes and inter-house events. By establishing an inclusive and interconnected house environment we can help accomplish belonging on a Whole School scale.

COMMUNITY WELLBEING

Following the series of lockdowns and isolation over the past few years, the sense of community spirit amongst the school has undoubtedly deteriorated. Yet now, we are provided with a clean slate, an opportunity to rebuild our school with vibrance and a culture that embraces all and celebrates our community. 2023 will hopefully see the return of plenty of established Whole School events such as the fete, and numerous exciting new ones! Through focusing on the lenses of sport, the arts, and service, we aim to foster an environment where every student can flourish and feel supported in all their endeavours.

Environmental sustainability is an issue of both local and transnational scale. It impacts all and requires the passion and commitment of all to support the natural world we rely on to ensure the continuing existence and health of the vast ecosystems and species within. Through the means of clear communication, education and leadership it is our aim to support the whole of the CGS community to feel that they have a say in how we do better for our world... our planet. We aim to empower the youth of today and give them an equal voice to make the change they wish to see at regional and international levels.

PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENT LEADERSHIP

This year has been a big year for the house system and student leadership in the Primary School. Not only have we introduced and established 6 completely new houses, but we also introduced those houses to encompass all students from Kindergarten to Year 6 and expanded the Student Representative Council to include both our Primary School campuses.

During our Year 6 Leadership Day, students participated in workshops led by the Heads of Student Houses and Dr Webster to better understand how to be successful leaders in Primary School.

Our annual Leadership Assembly was a chance to present badges and acknowledge the impact and roles that the House Captains, Year 6 Leaders and Student Representative Council members have on our school.

One of the things that the Primary house system is most proud of this year is how we have embedded Indigenous culture, stories and language into our new houses.

We’ve been so lucky to have the stories and origins of our house names taught to us by Aaron Chatfield and then they were brought to life by the artwork of Kalara Gilbert. We also worked with the Indigenous scholars from the Senior School to learn about how we can connect to Country and the importance of the land around us. We also wrote House Acknowledgements of Countries as a collective, which we say at the beginning of each house meeting.

The House Captains in particular, have been very busy this year from supporting all sports carnivals across Primary, to coordinating house meetings, to organising house debating, inter-house sport and e-sport tournaments.

– Lauren Dunn, Director of Students

PRIMARY SCHOOL HOUSE LEADERS 2023

BARINY BURU DHIRIWIRI GUGINYAL NAMARAG MULLEUN

Vivienne Gaffey Max Axiom

Tae Ree Rueben Reynolds

Sophie Leung Emerson Wootten

Isabella Martinez Andreas Haridmos

Violet Collins Finnegan Budd

Sylvie Redwin Coby Choi

CAMPS WEEK REACHING NEW HEIGHTS!

I was approached by Sue Donoghue with a request to support both Felix and Ollie (Year 8) during their time at camp. Care had to be taken as both students required medical assistance for Cerebral Palsy.

This meant engaging with our medical staff at the Health Clinic and their parents to understand concerns, medication requirements and ensuring they were provided with the best support during camp.

What were your thoughts and feelings about heading into camp this year?

I felt very nervous in the lead-up to camp because I hadn’t been on a camp since Year 4. I thought I might not be able to do the things that other kids could do and be left out. I was excited about being away from my parents and my annoying but cute little sister.

I was nervous but as I learned more about camp, I was excited to have new experiences and wanted to go.

What was your favourite activity at camp? M

My favourite activity at camp was the zipline because it was so much fun. I loved going really fast and taking my hands off the ropes pretty much the whole time.

Learning how to throw a boomerang was my favourite activity, and surprisingly, it came back to me!

What was the hardest thing you tried? What challenged/motivated you?

The hardest thing I tried was the log climbing activity. The climbing part was really challenging because my left side is weaker. But I thought, ‘I’m only here once so I might as well do it.’

The hardest thing I tried was the hiking, but I wanted to prove to people that I can do anything they can. And now I’m going to climb Mt Kosciusko with my family to raise money for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance.

Once on camp it was clear there was no challenge too daunting for either of them. Harnessing them up, we climbed trees, flew across flying foxes and built sky-high in a crate stacking activity.

The cultural immersion was fantastic, learning to throw boomerangs, understanding the use of different tools and being a part of an amazing experience that offered something special for everyone.

We interviewed both Felix and Oliver about their camp experience at Coolendel.

– Melissa Kenney, Services Manager and Boarding House Supervisor

What’s the funniest thing that happened at camp?

The funniest thing that happened at camp was when Mrs Herse rode her bike into a bush and then picked herself up and kept going.

The funniest thing that happened was that I fell in a mud puddle and got unbelievably muddy.

What do you think will stick with you? M

Ziplining and the exhilarating feeling it gave me.

My favourite memories from camp were getting to know everyone better and realising that I climbed a mountain.

How were you brave? M

I was brave on the first night when my friend Ollie couldn’t come to camp and I had to sleep by myself in a tent.

I didn’t need to be brave because I had people around to help me.

What new activities do you want to try at camp next year?

I tried everything but there was no canoeing and I really want to do that next year.

Next year I want to try climbing because I need to be a little bolder.

FELIX’S PARENTS – FIONA & KIT

Like so many other kids, Felix has missed out on going to camp for the last couple of years due to Covid. Felix deals with a chronic liver condition and mild cerebral palsy so there has always been a lot of extra medical appointments and therapy for him. In fact, we think the last camp he attended was in Grade 4! So this camp was a really important one for lots of reasons. It would be the longest time he’s spent away from his family. And as a young teen, there has been a growing need for Felix to assert his independence and a sometimes unhealthy reliance on screens that we aim to break.

We hoped the camp would assist in both these areas and it did! More importantly, we wanted our son to be both safe and happy at camp. Felix has always loved sports and physical activity so we knew he’d get a lot of that!

But his mild disability means that some activities like bike riding and climbing would be extra challenging for him. It was great to have a chat with Alex Thompson and Mel Kenney, who reassured us that Felix would be given every opportunity to participate and that all his medical needs would be met. We really appreciated the fact that Felix’s own bike was taken to camp for him to use by Kevin.

There is no doubt that Felix’s camp experience provided him with a wonderful break from regular school days, from the screen and from his family! He returned with new confidence and was obviously proud that he’d been able to take part in every possible physical challenge. We also feel the experience helped him appreciate that he can start taking more steps towards independence.

OLIVER’S PARENTS - KIMBERLEY AND MARK

We expect Ollie to go on camp, just like every other student. In primary school, Ollie was extremely nervous before camps. He would then always have a wonderful time on the camp. We have learned to support him though his nerves and just get him to camp. Once he’s there, we trust that he will enjoy himself.

This year we had to take him in to camp as he woke up with a cold on the first day and we couldn’t send him on the bus. After giving him time to recover, Ollie and Mark (Ollie’s dad) left at 5:30am on the Wednesday morning to drive to camp and to leave Ollie to join his group for the hike and overnight camp. We think camps are too important for developing independence and for making friends to miss out on. Ollie came home more confident and has loved giving a speech about his camp experiences to Sheaffe. He enjoyed making connections on camp to staff and students.

After doing the hike on camp with his group, Ollie has signed the whole family (Joey year 8 and Ned year 5) and us (Kimberley and Mark) to climb Mt Kosciusko with him and raise money for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. Now I (Ollie’s mum Kimberley ) have a February 11, 2023 deadline to get fit enough to climb a mountain too!

The Krazy-Kosciusko-Klimb is 10 – 12 February 2023. Scan the QR Code to visit Ollie’s fundraising page and make a donation.

SNOW CONCERT HALL OPENING NIGHT

25 August, 2022 marked the official opening of Snow Concert Hall. Years of tireless planning, and development by many passionate and dedicated individuals went into its build. The opening night demanded as much dedication and commitment, as we unveiled what was to be a new landmark and architectural marvel in Canberra Grammar School’s rich and vibrant history.

With countless hours devoted to rehearsals by students and staff set to perform at the opening, and with support from technical and operational teams behind the scenes, we prepared to open the doors of Snow Concert Hall to welcome our community.

The event opened with an official ribbon cutting by Terry and Ginette Snow and a digeridoo performance followed by a unique musical Acknowledgement of Country —The poem Red Hill Wedgetail Country, a specially commissioned piece by Wallaboola man from the Ngunawal Nation, Ethan Bell, accompanied by ‘Ngunnawal Song’, written in consultation with Aunty Violet Sheridan.

Resonance, performed by the CGS Chorale, CGS Choir and CGS Chamber Choir, as well as performances by cellist Christopher Pidcock, pianist Aaron Chew, vocalists Liam Budge and Chelsea Bonanno, also CGS Alumni, exemplified the broad range of performances Snow Concert Hall was built to not only accommodate but also accentuate.

Additionally, a breathtaking performance by prizewinning organist Marko Sever on Canberra Grammar School’s bespoke digital pipe organ, as well as addresses by Dr Justin Garrick and Mr Terry Snow were resounding crowdpleasers. Finally, a closing performance by the CGS Choir was among the many illustrations of the capabilities and calibre of the Snow Concert Hall. Each performance on the night reverberated around the hall, with all in attendance revelling in its state-of-the-art acoustics.

The official opening of Snow Concert Hall culminated years of planning, development, and countless hours of rehearsals into a truly unforgettable night of extraordinary performances that our community will be sure to remember.

We extend our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Mr Terry Snow for his generous donation and ongoing patronage of the School. His invaluable support has made a transformative impact on the future of the School, its students and the music education programme. The Snow Concert Hall offers new opportunities for our students to learn, grow and succeed. We aim to utilise the Snow Concert Hall to its fullest extent as a place to appreciate music and the performing arts, to honour achievements and talents, a place to grow and learn as well as a space to gather as one community and celebrate the many occasions to come.

– Ryan Butterworth, Marketing and Communications Coordinator

In December 2022 a group of CGS students participated in Sony Camp, a holiday programme that gives children with special needs an incredible camp experience, and parents, guardians and carers some respite during the holidays. CGS Year 11 students volunteered their time to train and provide care for the children enrolled in the programme over a 4 day period.

This year’s camp was a wonderful success as campers had an amazing time swimming, dragon boating and sailing, playing music, dancing, and engaging in woodwork activities!

Galambany SCULPTURE LAUNCH

On 21 July 2022 students and staff gathered on the lawns around the Senior School reception to unveil ‘Galambany’, a captivating sculpture gifted to the School by Dr Naren Chellappah (The Sai Family). Galambany’ – meaning (We, including, you) is a Ngunnawal word signifying respect, and reflects the values of peace, reconciliation and belonging.

Dr Naren Chellappah is a long-standing member of the CGS community as both a past CGS parent and foundation benefactor. Dr Chellappah hopes to give back to the community through art, and by sharing the values that have provided a strong foundation for him throughout his life.

The installation consists of four main wave-like figures that sit within a small labyrinth and combines the sound of gently ringing Tibetan bells, meant to symbolise a place of quiet. While the upper section of the sculpture is meant to represent the waterways and beaches the base of the sculpture represents the land and country.

The unveiling ceremony included an address by Dr Chellappah where he reflected on the purpose of the sculpture, ‘We hope the project creates an object of contemplation, a place to be alone with one’s thoughts, a place where workshops and seminars can be conducted, perhaps it may enable one to think about transcending the egotistic concept of ‘I’ to an inclusive vision of ‘We’’.

To conclude, the sculpture was blessed with a prayer by Father Andrew as well as a traditional smoking ceremony conducted by Aunty Violet Sheridan.

AN INTERVIEW WITH MUSIC SCHOLAR – BEN MONRO

Could you describe how your interest in music developed and why you were inspired to make it a focus in your education?

My whole family have been musicians, my parents and grandparents were both involved in music, and once my big brother picked up his first instrument, my parents decided to introduce me to music. I started piano lessons at five years old, and then cello at five and a half. I started trumpet at seven years old, and all throughout my childhood I have played in orchestras and ensembles, strengthening my bonds with other musicians. My love for music has grown immensely from all the exposure and experiences that have come along with it.

Ben (Year 10) is the recipient of a Tim Murray Music Scholarship for 2023. His love for music, particularly the cello, was the main driver for his application. We spoke to Ben to learn about his aspirations and how this scholarship will help his future in music.

What do you feel the School offers students through its music programmes?

The music programmes are something special, allowing access to world-class facilities like the new Snow Concert Hall. It gives us opportunities to grow as musicians and people in general. The programmes can also help students who may not have a musical background by giving them opportunities to discover other avenues that music brings as a source of inspiration and self-expression.

How do you think the opportunity of being awarded the Tim Murray Music Scholarship will help you on your path toward being an accomplished musician?

The scholarship will give me opportunities to perform, learn and develop as a person in the future.

What skills or goals are you aiming to accomplish by the end of your scholarship?

What was the scholarship application process like? What did you do to prepare?

The process for scholarship application was simple, as all that was needed was to apply online. We filled in an online application and added a resume of my experiences. Successful submissions received follow-up interviews to narrow the applicants down to one person.

I am aiming to develop not only my skills as a musician, but also mentally and socially, with music being the medium.

Who are some of your favourite artists? What makes them unique or stand out to you?

Despite being classically trained and growing up with a dislike of pop music from the early 2010s, I have discovered a few artists especially in rap. NF is currently my favourite artist, because of his unique ability to convey raw emotion and meaning in his songs. On the other end of the spectrum, I have also fallen in love with Hans Zimmer and his work on Interstellar, Inception and Dune. The simplicity and beauty of his art elicits the emotional response that I’m always looking for in music.

GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP

This semester the CGS Global Citizenship Programme continued to offer our students engaging and hands-on experiences that helped them broaden their perspectives on the world around them and encouraged them to apply learnings in real-world contexts. Below are just some of the initiatives run under the Global Citizenship Programme this semester:

– Elizabeth Allsopp, Head of CGS Centre for Global Citizenship

PERFORMANCES & MASTERCLASSES

CGS Insight presented John Bell and the Australian Haydn Ensemble in a special performance of their production ‘Haydn Speaks’ to students. This was followed by two separate masterclasses: for music students, an opportunity to work with the Australian Haydn Ensemble; and, for Drama and English students, a Q&A session with John Bell, one of the foremost figures in Australian Theatre, which was facilitated by Zoe H, CGS Drama Captain. Students and teachers were captivated by all performers’ willingness to share their expertise and experience.

The CGS Sustainability club takes the lead in raising awareness of global issues within the local context, and provides hands-on learning for students in Years 7 – 12.

I love Sustainability Club and I want [it] to be able to leave its mark on this school and stay around for a long time. – Isobel, Year 11.

This year, I got involved in the Sustainability Club because this club represented something that I value, which is doing your part to protect the planet. I have been in the club for six months and have recently been appointed Secretary. In the coming year, I look forward to supporting steps towards a more sustainable Canberra Grammar School.

– Angela, Year 11

I believe that to achieve a sustainable future, unity is vital, particularly in widespread small but meaningful actions. CGS Sustainability Club is a positive community of students working towards doing their part to help save our planet through our school community. After being in the club for a year, it has helped me see what individuals and communities such as CGS can do to make a meaningful impact, in a fun and encouraging environment.

– Georgie, Year 10

LOCAL CIVIC ENGAGEMENT CENTRE ACTIVITIES

VISIT TO THE NATIONAL PRESS CLUB

CGS Students attend the National Press Club to hear directly from leaders, thinkers and changemakers from Canberra, Australia and the world. Most recently, students from Years 10 and 11 heard Arrernte and Kalkadoon filmmaker Rachel Perkins and historian Professor Henry Reynolds speak at the National Press Club on ‘The Australian Wars’ – the battles between European colonists and First Nations in the years before federation. Students were able to ask questions and meet and greet Ms Perkins.

MENTORING PROGRAMME TRIAL

A new initiative facilitated by teachers from the Economics department, provided a leadership opportunity for Year 12 Global Politics IB students. Our students engaged in a mentoring afternoon with Year 6 students from Charles Weston Primary school in Coombs and helped them reflect on their recent exhibitions and learnings. Later, the Year 12s participated in a panel discussion, where Year 6 students asked a range of questions about their experiences and sought advice.

TEDX MASTERCLASS & THE SPEAKERS’ CLUB

This semester, CGS students attended a masterclass from TEDx Canberra Coach, Bradley Roche. Students learned what it takes to ‘step into the Red Circle’ at a TEDx event, as they engaged in activities that stretched and challenged them. Following on from the success of this masterclass, in Term 4, the CGS Speakers’ Club was launched. Facilitated by Dr Hashim Periyalil the Vice President of the P&F, the club provides an opportunity for students to engage in real world issues, while also developing their presentation and communication skills: essential skills to be ready for the world.

NATIONAL PARTICIPATION/ACTIVITIES

Lillian H and Ethan T (Year 9) and four other CGS Teams participated in the Evatt Model UN Youth Debate Regional Final. The competition takes the form of a mock session of the UN Security Council. Lillian and Ethan represented India and faced questions on the Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, and the veto powers. At the end of a successful day of debate, Lillian and Ethan placed first. They now progress through to the National final in Adelaide at the end of the year. A huge congratulations to Lillian and Ethan who were the youngest competitors involved and beat teams of Year 12 students from across the ACT to take out their win!

PRIMARY SCHOOL PYP WALK

This years’ PYP Walk showcased student learning from across all areas. It was a joy to welcome our community back onto campus to share in celebrating our student work. The six themes of focus through the showcase were:

• Who We Are

• Sharing The Planet

• How We Express Ourselves

• How The World Works

• How We Organise Ourselves

• Where We Are In Place And Time

The amazing display of student work showed both creativity and critical thinking. There was a diverse range of student work on display that included an interactive Science and Technology exhibit in the Library and Music performances throughout the afternoon.

PRIMARY SCHOOL

National Science Week at CGS was filled with activities and opportunities to practice analytical thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving. This year’s theme for National Science Week was Glass: More Than Meets the Eye, celebrating glass as one of the most important, versatile, and transformative materials of history. The theme brought many concepts to life, along with opportunities to explore and hands-on experiments using microscopes, magnifying glasses and kaleidoscopes.

As National Science Week continued, activities such as a Balloon Buggy

Competition saw students from ELC – Year 6 construct a balloon buggy at home to bring in and compete against each other during their lunch breaks until they reached a nail-biting showdown of the best buggies.

– Melissa Chadwick, Associate Director of Academic Education (Science & IT)

PRIMARY SCHOOL Book Week DREAMING WITH EYES OPEN

The Canberra Grammar School Community enjoyed a range of Book Week celebrations across year levels and campuses. The festivities began at Northside, where students were treated to a performance of the picture book ‘Stellarphant’ by the library team and Dr Webster. The following parade showcased the hard work of students and parents in creating unique costumes inspired by their chosen book.

Red Hill campus joined in the fun with parents gathering on the Primary School oval to enjoy a coffee and book parade with Mr Mowlam’s entertaining commentary. A highlight of the book week celebrations this year was the multi-age buddy reading activity.

PRIMARY SCHOOL SPORT

It has been a marvellous year for Primary Sport at CGS. The school had student representatives for ACT and Nationals Swimming, a fantastic Cross Country and Athletics Carnival, House Spirit at the House Gala Carnival and encouraging, energetic community gatherings for our Infants Carnivals.

Students were provided with opportunities to represent the School at a variety of Tournaments and Gala Days, such as Primary School Brumbies Championships, ACT Schools Snow Cup in Perisher, ACT Cricket Primary Cup, South Weston, Nationals and ACT for Cross Country running and Track and Field to name a few.

THE GREEN PROJECT

‘The Green Project’ was implemented in the Primary School in Term 2 of 2022. The project’s ultimate aim is to nurture students to become active guardians of the planet rather than passive consumers. The initiatives within The Green Project are an exercise in mindfulness that students and staff can take beyond the School to their homes and other places of visitation, thus putting into practice the shared values of the CGS community. These values influence and shape the way we serve and engage with our community in order to make a positive difference to the world around us.

The Green Project was launched as part of a House Project and has now grown into an ongoing initiative that will encompass school wide behaviour change and action. Some key initiatives under the ‘Green Project’ included a waste audit, implementation of compost bins, establishment of the green team (currently 18 members from Kindergarten – Year 6) and a partnership with Zeroco sustainable school fundraising programme.

– Sam McShane, Head of Primary School Sport & Physical Education PS – Year 6

– Emma Potter, Primary School PE Teacher

PRIMARY SCHOOL MUSIC

The Primary School Performing Arts department was overjoyed to showcase many exciting performances, events, and opportunities in 2022. After a somewhat disrupted start to the year, due to continuing restriction impacts, the Performing Arts programme in Primary School flourished.

Semester 2 held the much-anticipated opening of the Snow Concert Hall, which featured the CGS Chorale performing the specially commissioned work ‘Resonance’. Our young musicians shared the stage with esteemed CGS Alumni, CGS Choirs, and the Brass Fanfare Ensemble for what was a truly inspiring event.

For the first time in two years, we were thrilled to hold both the Studio Sunday recital series in both Terms 2 and 4 as well as Primary School Soirees in Term 3. We continued to welcome families into our Open Rehearsals for all ensembles from K-6, including the newly implemented Piano Performance Practice and Year and Year 6 Music Enrichment Programme.

Students were very excited to welcome their families for these open classes and it was a fantastic insight for parents into the progression and dedication of our students leading up to performances.

Term 4 showcased the Co-Curricular Music Programme through six concerts across November. The Choral, Bands, Guitars, Strings, and Jazz ensembles across the school performed for the first time in the new Snow Concert Hall. This year, our Primary School Carols Services were celebrated in the Snow Concert Hall in two services. Every child from Pre-School to Year 2 from both Campbell and Red Hill campuses shared their singing with around 500 audience members in a very special morning Carol Service. The Carol Service for students in Years 3 – 6 was an opportunity for our Year Level Choirs to perform a standout carol and for Chorale and CGS Singers to present the always highly anticipated ‘Once in Royal David’s City’ and feature carols. We had really missed sharing these occasions with our community in the past years, so these two major services were a joyful way to celebrate the end of the year.

After the many stops and starts over the last few years, our Performing Arts Programme flourished in 2022 and we can’t wait to bring joy and creativity to the learning again in 2023.

–

Madeleine Retter, Head of Primary School Performing Arts

PRIMARY SCHOOL CAMPS

Our Primary students spent time in the beautiful countryside of the South Coast, the Green Hills educational centre in Stromlo, Killalea, Kiama, Gerringong and Shoalhaven Heads. Camp activities focused on learnings such as grasping the relationship between actions and their consequences, taking responsibility, challenging self and supporting others.

YEAR 6 EXHIBITION & GRADUATION 2022

Make An Impact! This is what we worked towards for Exhibition 2022. How can we make an impact and change the world for the better?

Weeks of planning, discussions, workshops, research, dance, music, art, maths and more, resulted in an outstanding and memorable Exhibition for our Year 6 students. The exhibition is all about our students being independent and taking ownership of their learning.

The overarching concept for the 2022 Exhibition was ‘Energy’. Solar, kinetic, nuclear, physical, nutritional, sound, hydro, and spiritual are just some of the different forms of energy that students chose to explore. Students also put on a dance and musical performance, celebrating energy through movement and sound. The performance came to an emotional close to the finale song, “Count on Me” sung in unison.

The display of student work was held in the War Memorial Hall and was an outstanding collection of models, websites, games, textiles, dioramas, research, graphs and more.

A huge thank you to our mentors and parents for their unconditional support and guidance for our students. It was the most rewarding and powerful way to end the year and we are incredibly proud of our Year 6 students.

– Sarah Dunn, PYP Coordinator

The Graduation Service is a celebration of the Year 6 cohort finishing their time in Primary School. In 2022, the Service captured the voice of the students; Angus Carson, Ada Duckworth, Ashton Scott, Noah Ebrahimi, Chloe Maas, and Addey West collaborated to reflect on their time in Primary School. They reflected upon leadership, friendship, the impact of COVID-19, the Year 6 camp, sports, and the classroom.

Their reflections were beautifully articulated and expressed their fond memories of Bluey’s through to Year 6. It was evident that the opportunities that were provided to them, have stuck in their memories, and that they will miss Primary School, but are looking forward to the journey ahead.

The Service farewelled each student who was presented with their Graduation Certificate from their classroom teacher, Dr Webster, and Dr Garrick. It was lovely to have the community join us to celebrate this milestone of the students. Thank you to Father James for leading the Service.

– Kate Boyd, Associate Director Students Years 3 – 6

GARNSEY HOUSE REPORT

With the end of Term four nearing, Garnsey is soon to complete one of our most successful years as a house. This feat is made even more impressive coming from a very disrupted two years of COVID-19 lockdowns and year group separation that made all Houses in the School more disconnected and with a drained sense of community.

Some of the most valuable events in re-establishing our sense of culture have been the various captain’s cup and House shield events. Although at the beginning, events such as netball, esports and swimming had to be held with reduced numbers and involvement from the year groups, slowly, all year groups were able to participate, with carnivals finally returning to normality for house soccer and the athletics carnival. Garnsey’s performance in these events has been consistently excellent. One of the most notable events of the year was House Music, an event that historically draws from our results in the House Shield. However, our individual sections were the best they’ve ever been due to the hard work and planning we put in. When results did not yield on the scoreboard for these smaller sections, the house came together for House Shout and earned a first place performance, securing a second place overall in the event. While Garnsey has achieved higher positions overall, such as the cross country, athletics and soccer events, it certainly felt the most special, and inspired a strong house spirit that Garnsey ultimately carried throughout the rest of the year, which finished with Garnsey winning both the House Shield and Captain’s cup in dominant fashion.

Our mentor group system has been even more important coming back at a time like this as well, and it has been great to see people back in the locker rooms in the morning and looking ready for the day. A real highlight this year was the activities afternoon, an event in which mentor groups participate as a team in a variety of activities to try and achieve the highest score. Thanks to the organisation and involvement of our mentor captains and Year 12’s, the event was enjoyable and engaging for all, going a long way to help re-establish connection within the various mentor groups of the house. Events such as the Red Shield Appeal door knock, done annually with Middleton further allowed members of the house to bond again, which was especially important for the younger years, the Year 8s and 9s who were yet to experience Garnsey as it usually is.

I am seeing a new side to our theme of gratitude now that my exams are over, and I will not return as a member of Garnsey house next year. I will always be grateful for my time in Garnsey, and wish the very best to the new captains, Isabelle, Domi and Peta, and of course wish the house the best for the year ahead.

– Benjamin Varela, Garnsey Captain 2022

SNOW HOUSE REPORT

– David Messina, Head of Snow House

REACH FOR NEPAL CHARITY HIKE & BBQ

On Sunday 14 August, a small group of students, families and staff enjoyed the Snow House ‘Reach for Nepal’ Charity Hike and BBQ. It was wonderful to be able to get together and share an experience. At the top of Red Hill, Lou Nulley, CEO of Reach for Nepal, spoke fondly of the connection that Canberra Grammar School has with the Foundation. Thomas Bennett, a current Year 11 student, was fortunate to travel to Nepal in 2019 with other students from CGS. He spoke about his service opportunity and how it changed his life. He mentioned that today’s ‘problems’, in our sheltered and privileged world, are very trivial compared to the challenges that the Nepalese people, in particular young students, face every day. It was quite a powerful moment in reflection, and I was personally impressed by the display of our students’ genuine empathy. We are excited to start planning another trip to Annapurna in 2023 to provide an opportunity for students to be involved in true service. I would like to thank everyone who gave their support through participation and the generous donations. I’m pleased to announce that we were able to raise $1040. This will certainly go a long way.

SNOW HOUSE & MOUNTAIN VIEW AGED CARE

Snow House connects with the Mountain View Aged Care residents as an initiative that began during 2023. During the pandemic we were concerned that residents could not see their relatives. After a successful Zoom session, students walked away and reflected that the problems in their everyday life are not that bad when compared to what life was like 80 years ago. On 15 November 2022, students from Snow House had a Zoom call with Mountain View Aged Care Centre. During the call, students chatted with residents of the facility and enjoyed some of their interesting tales from the past as well as advice for the future. The residents smiled and were keen to answer the thoughtful questions posed to them. Students look forward to making Christmas cards during their tutor time to send to the residents. We aim to keep this connection in the hopes that one day the Snow House students will be able to visit Mountain View and spend quality time with the residents, in person.

SENIOR SCHOOL CAMPS WEEK

It was wonderful to be able to experience Camps Week again this year. Camps focus on learning opportunities that help students build their independence, conquer fears, test their abilities and most importantly, provide them with lifelong experiences and memories. This years camps took our Senior School students hiking to the Kosciuszko Trail, The Alpine Trail, and Jindabyne as well as Thredbo Minimbah, Coolendel and Byadbi.

Activities included archery, mountain biking, rock climbing, bushwalking, abseiling, and Indigenous knowledge integration.

IB DIPLOMA CAMP

As part of Camps week, Year 11 IB Diploma students had the opportunity to take their learning into the outdoors and support their Theory of Knowledge course and Sciences through a curriculum connected experience in Namadji National Park and Green Hills in the Cotter River. Students engaged in a range of experiences creating scientific enquiries and experiments in the bush, navigating with technology and engaging in Indigenous knowledge and society. Sessions were lead by students in their research, CGS Staff and University of Canberra’s Professor Brad Moggridge, Dreamtime Connection’s Aaron Chatfield and Former CGS Indigenous Scholar Kye Moggridge in what has become a world-leading curriculum-connected learning experience. Students were able to investigate the concepts of how knowledge is owned and the importance of culture in understanding knowledge.

– Graham Maltby, IB Diploma Programme Coordinator

SENIOR SCHOOL ATHLETICS CARNIVAL

The House flags were flying high in our first full athletics carnival in 3 years! It was wonderful to witness students having the opportunity to compete and Houses enthusiastically supporting all athletes. Although the weather did play up with some rainy patches, it did not stop our students from ending the occasion with their signature chant … C-G-S!

AUSTRALIAN INTERSCHOOLS SNOWSPORTS CHAMPIONSHIPS

CGS was in the top three co-educational schools in the Nation at the Australian Interschools Snowsports Championships. In addition to all those CGS Snowsports athletes who qualified and participated over the event there were a number of standout performances including Sofia Sly (Year 8), Gracie Byron (Year 7) and Emily Bodman (Year 7) who won Nationals team silver medals in both the Division 3 Snowboard GS and Cross. Sofia also won an individual silver for the Snowboard GS. Well done team!

In the Cross Country Classic event, CGS Snowsports Captain, Samuel Johnson placed second in the Division 1 boys event and then led the Division 1 boys relay team with Dougal Cameron and Edward Johnson to a Team Bronze medal. This was a huge effort as both Dougal (Year 10) and Edward (Year 7).

PERFORMING ARTS

Our Co-curricular dance was is back with a bang this semester! CGS students performed at the Ausdance ACT Youth Dance Festival at the Canberra Theatre performing ‘A Night at the Museum’ which was also a highlight performance on Presentation Night 2022.

Students also took part in the Year 12 Performing Arts Showcase where IB Theatre and Film, with HSC Dance and Drama, showed some of the best works from their senior classes.

{Showcase Event}

The Code Cadets put on a showcase event for the CGS community in November at the Snow Concert Hall. The evening celebrated the many accomplishments of the team through the year. Filled with tech demos that included line-following robots, a motion sensing piano and a face-recognition drone, the showcase exhibited the many innovative ways that the code cadets can create, learn and grow in the field of tech. Also featured on the night, was the ANU solar car team that talked about their solar powered race car.

Last but certainly not least, students put on a riveting performance during the drama production of ‘The Chocolate Wars’, a tale of a freshman who dares to defy both the authorities and a gang of rowdy students at his school.

SENIOR SCHOOL MUSIC

Senior School Music was in full swing this semester with a wide range of performances that truly showcased the immense talent of our students. Kicking off with the opening night of Snow Concert Hall, with performances from students and CGS Alumni which included a special piece by the CGS Choir and CGS Chamber Choir called ‘Resonance’, a piece specially composed for the night.

The term continued with the Yumalundi Concert series, which offered individual concert performances focusing on the wide range of musical opportunities enjoyed by students at Canberra Grammar School. The series featured the chorale concert, jazz bands, guitar, strings and bands concerts as well. All events were a huge success with support from family and friends in attendance.

SPANISH NIGHT

FRENCH NIGHT

On 15 November, 150 language students and 10 staff members celebrated the first Festival de Cannes(berra) at Pialligo Estate. The Frenchthemed night celebrated the glitz and glamour of the Cannes Flim festival with a red carpet, gourmet French food and even paparazzi! Our A-list French students and Language Department were the stars of the night and enjoyed all the festivities and fanfare the evening had to offer.

Our Senior School Spanish language students had a fun-filled night at the Pialligo estate on 1 September. Students were treated to a variety of Spanish fare, on-theme music as well as bright and colourful décor to set the tone for the night.

AUSTRALIAN GEOGRAPHY COMPETITION

Once again senior geography students, participated in the Australian Geography Competition, and this year we celebrated 23 years of CGS achieving first place in the combined Territories.

This year for the combined Territories first place was awarded to Christopher Taudevin (Year 9); Jessica Li (Year 10); Thomas Lin (Year 11); William Truman (Year 12). Well done to these highest achievers.

ART DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY EXHIBITIONS

Senior School Art Design and Technology students put on a creative display of their works in an array of exhibitions in September and October 2022. The standard of work on display was exceptional and showcased the level of skill and creativity our students are capable of.

Aaryan Kamath Ryan Mukherjee Emma Oquist Angus Wallbrink

Christopher Taudevin Isis Nitschke-Stevenson Niam Airey

Thomas Lin Henry Lawton Glenn Zhu Jackson Mann 26 | CGS OUTLOOK

William Truman Quinn Blakers Nick Yannopoulos

AUSTRALIAN GEOGRAPHY BIG WEEK OUT

This year two CGS students, Thomas Lin and Nivedita Gawarikar (Year 11) , were selected to represent the Australian Capital Territory at the Australian Geography Competition’s ‘Big Week Out’ (GBWO). Selected students from each State and Territory participated in a fieldwork week in Darwin. The Geography Department and Canberra Grammar School are very proud of these two fine young ambassadors.

This is a reflection from Thomas and Nivedita:

GBWO 2022 was not just an ordinary interstate trip. We had the opportunity to participate in a range of fieldwork activities that were both novel, challenging, and unique to the school geography course. The real highlights were not just developing our geographical knowledge but making lifelong friendships and exploring Aboriginal Australian culture.

DEVELOPMENT & THE DEFENCE WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAMME

During the year many students gained insight into employment in the Defence Force by successfully applying to the Defence Work Experience Programme. Students explored a range of careers across the whole of the Defence Force. Through the year, 15 students undertook work experience projects in areas such as the Australian Signals Directorate (Cyber Security and Robotics), Navy Aviation, Army Aviation, Air Force and Indigenous youth placement.

Here are some student reflections on their experiences:

In participating in the Army aviation programme at Swartz Barracks in Oakey, QLD, I gained a unique perspective and many valuable insights into not only defence careers in aviation, but the Australian defence force lifestyle as a whole. I was lucky enough to experience flying a Taipan MRH helicopter in the fully realistic airbus simulator, normally reserved for training ADF pilots.

Our students also made applications in the local region to gain work exploration opportunities. CGS Alum, Declan Norrie from Proximity created an engaging and immersive experience for student Amber-Rose early in Term 4. That involved ownership of a small project that simulated a realworld work problem.

My time at Proximity was not only mind-opening but extremely insightful into how a workplace runs. It enhanced my skills in presenting, communications and analytical thinking as I worked under a group of lawyers who strive to make a difference in the world.

I was lucky enough to go on the Army officer work experience(1 Week) at RMC Duntroon and Naval Aviation overview(3 Days) at HMAS Creswell and HMAS Albatross. I particularly enjoyed the exploration of the bases and had the opportunity in a simulation of a sinking ship that had to be made seaworthy for a military obeisance course in the dark.

If you are interested in your career development, you should consider a work experience placement over the summer break. Talk to Ms Beman and explore the material on the Careers page of Connect.

AMBER-ROSE

FAREWELL YEAR 12 2022

As we approached the finish of the year for our Year 12 students there were numerous opportunities to mark this important milestone in their lives and to farewell all students in Year 12. The first of these activities was a special dinner to farewell our boarding students and their families. Our boarders play a special role in the life of CGS, a place that has been their ‘second home’.

It was also an honour to welcome back our CGS Alumni panel that included Tiger Steele, Brent Carolan, Rebecca Staite and Chris Wilson for the annual Alumni lunch which engages our current students with the possibilities available as CGS Alumni. There were many important occasions at the end of Term 3 including dress-up days, the return of the staff v Year 12 debate, a beautiful sunny day for the water play on the Main oval and a BBQ breakfast hosted by the P&F association. The last formal day for all of Year 12 included a final House meeting, special Chapel service, final assembly and the emotional ‘march out’.

Finally, after all examinations had been completed in Term 4, it was wonderful to host the Valedictory Celebration for all Year 12 students and their parents/guardians in the Snow Concert Hall followed by refreshments in the Quad. The following evening saw the Year 12 Formal at Old Parliament House which was a lovely evening. We say goodbye with sadness but wish them the best in the years ahead!

The Year 12 class of 2022 contributed enormously to a wonderful year in the life of the Senior School. From the beginning of the year, our School Captains, with the support Year 12 students, prioritised four key initiatives that focused on bringing positive change to the life of the Senior School. The following initiatives were central to the activities run throughout the year:

• Improving the sense of belonging that all members of our school feel

• Continuing to highlighting the issue of mental health difficulties and how to receive support

• Fostering student voice at CGS; and

• Improving our awareness and action regarding sustainability.

Many powerful and positive messages and guest speakers provided clear insights in these four areas and the development of a revamped and rejuvenated SRC committee model based on each year group provided the avenue for student voice to be much more prominent.

Year 12 lead the School very positively as a wide variety of events returned across the Whole School activities such as House Music, carnivals, service initiatives and individual House activities throughout the year.

As can be seen from the summary details below, all Year 12 students should be congratulated on their superb results in both the HSC and the IBDP. Given the disruption to their learning over many years, these excellent results which are amongst the best we have received, are a testament to the calibre and commitment of our students.

Special thanks to our School Leaders for 2022 from Year 12 who had such a positive influence on the life of Canberra Grammar School. Tom Gazard, Evie Lane, Zara Ford, Nick Yannopoulos, Lily Feakes, Mia Byron and Orlando Throsby were all inspirational captains, and they were superbly supported by the House Captains, Co-curricular Captains and many others without “official” leadership titles.

The end of 2022 also brings an end to my 13 years as Head of Senior School at CGS and although I will be moving to another role from the start of 2023 it is important that I thank everyone who has supported me in this role. I do believe that CGS has developed enormously during this period of time and it has been a privilege to serve the staff, students and families in helping to develop students of character, who are ready for the world. There have been times of challenge, but overall it has been a very rewarding and fulfilling job and we have had lots of fun and excitement through these years.

– David Smart, Head of Senior School

CLASS OF 2022 IB & HSC RESULTS

8% 99 OR ABOVE

26% 95 OR ABOVE

ACHIEVED ATAR OF

THE MEDIAN ATAR FOR IB WAS 95.2 SECOND HIGHEST RESULT FOR CGS

ACHIEVED ATAR OF

35% 90 OR ABOVE

30% DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVERS LIST

OF HSC STUDENTS EARNED A SPOT ON THE

97% ACHIEVED ATAR OF

ACHIEVED AN ATAR

TWO STUDENTS EARNED A PERFECT IB SCORE OF 45

85%

ATTAINED EARLY UNIVERSITY OFFERS

OF IB STUDENTS RECEIVED A SCORE OF 17% 42 OR ABOVE

PRESENTATION NIGHT 2022

What a night it was… after a 3 year wait and having to run the event virtually and scale down to meet COVID-19 requirements, it was with great pleasure and anticipation that we once again hosted Presentation Night 2022 live and in person. With a spectacular turnout of CGS community members at the National Convention Centre, the excitement in the air was palpable.

The evening was a true team effort with involvement from students and staff across the School. Kicking off with a captivating performance from the Year 6 Exhibition Choir and the Fisher Concert Band, followed by speeches from our Head of School, Senior School Captains and a video from our Vice Captains speaking on their initiatives.

The evening saw the recognition of so many of our Senior and Primary School students for their achievements throughout the year, as well as acknowledged the winner of this year’s Ian Powell Memorial Award.

As the night drew to a close, the audience was treated to a delightful performance by the cast of the 2023 CGS Musical - Chicago and ended on a high note with an enthralling delivery of ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing’, performed by the CGS Massed Orchestra, choir and audience!

IAN POWELL MEMORIAL AWARD

The Ian Powell Memorial award is awarded annually in recognition of those that have made a memorable and significant contribution to the life of the School. The 2022 award was presented to Kerri Rock, our Director of Strategic Operations, for her remarkable contributions over her 15 years with CGS.

Ms Kerri Rock, receives this award for her significant contributions to the quality of learning, teaching, and working at Canberra Grammar School. Her work is varied from supporting our Indigenous students, the Asian engagement portfolio and the Global educational initiative, primary education, the talented athlete programme, to supporting the first female swimmers and establishing the first girls swimming cup. No aspect has been too big or too small to warrant her care, leadership, engagement, or support to ensure success in the School’s endeavours.

Kerri Rock has not only been a creative and critical problem solver and friend to many, but she has consciously and generously worked to grow the skills and talents of those around her. Few who have worked with her would not acknowledge the strength of her character, the wisdom of her advice nor the generosity of her nature, and the real passion she has for lifting this school in all the areas of her endeavours. Her contributions to the school will be treasured and remembered fondly.

NEWSbites

INDIGENOUS SCHOLARSHIP ART PIECE

Indigenous Scholarship Students embarked on a cultural workshop, led by local elder, Aunty Ronnie Jordan and Ms Dwyer. Each student contributed to a collaborative piece by incorporating an individual element that represented their own personal story.

ARCHAEOLOGIST DR JOSEPHINE FLOOD

Renowned archaeologist Dr Josephine Flood took the time to visit and speak with Year 7 History and Year 11 Aboriginal Studies classes. Dr Flood has written extensively on South-East Australian Indigenous archaeological sites and presented students with insight into important heritage sites dating back 30,000 years. She also shared her knowledge with the classes on the nature and importance of moth hunting in the ACT region.

IBU INDONESIAN PARTNER SCHOOL VISIT

Ibu Amanda, from our Indonesian Partner School in Malang, visited the Primary School for a week in November. K-3 Students enjoyed meeting her and her students and learning about life in Indonesia, which they were surprised to find very different to their own.

ROWING

Zoe of Year 12 represented Australia at the Under 19 World Championships and finished in a commendable 13th place. The experience left Zoe motivated to push herself further in her athletic endeavours and continue improving both Nationally and Internationally.

AUSTRALIAN CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS ADELAIDE

On 27 August Jasper, John, Iris, Peter, Maddie, Elise, Alissa, Darcy and Zoe ran the 2022 Australian Cross Country Championships in Adelaide. They rigorously represented CGS, determined to persevere through a particularly muddy course which made the task that much more challenging. Zoe also came away from the event with a silver award.

PENS AGAINST POVERTY

CGS students and siblings Hugo (Year 7) and Lilah (Year 4) were awarded with their first-place certificates at Government House for winning their narrative writing categories in the Pens Against Poverty writing competitio. Hugo’s story took the theme of Finding a Home and explores the journey of a refugee child with detail and sophistication, while Lilah insightfully delved into the national crisis of the floods through a journey of compassion and generosity.

NATIONAL LIBRARY DONATION

Canberra Grammar School donated 46 editions of our journals, ‘The Canberran’ (1929-1980) to the National Library of Australia. They are now freely available online from anywhere in the world for anybody to view. It was a unique opportunity to share some of CGS’ rich history on a global scale.

CLIMATE CHANGE EVENT

Students Orlando and Zach participated in a climate change event at ANU, sponsored and organized by the US Embassy. Ambassador Kennedy gave opening remarks and then Deputy Special Envoy for Climate Rick Duke and his Australian counterpart, Kushla Munro took questions from the audience about climate-related issues.

NEWSbites

MOUNTAIN BIKING

The CGS team of Samuel Johnson, Zach Stranger, Xavier Wiencke and Dylan Pitt took away gold medals at the Interschools Mountain Biking event at Stromlo in the Year 11 and 12 categories. Six hundred competitors representing 60 schools from as far away as Albury, Newcastle, Jervis Bay and the Southern Highlands contested the four-hour team event. CGS junior team of Caleb, Lachlan, Charlie and Nicholas came 11th of the 61 teams competing in their class (Years 7 and 8). CGS was also represented in the Year 9 and 10 categories with Kit, Angus, Benjamin and Hugh placing 16th of 41 teams.

ACT SECONDARY SCHOOL CHESS COMPETITION

On Wednesday 26 October, CGS participated in the ACT Secondary Schools Chess Finals. CGS hosted the event in the Pavilion for over 70 students from a range of schools across the ACT. It was an extremely close tournament, with CGS taking first place, beating Radford College on countback. Our winning team consisted of Joshua, Lachlan, Oscar and Minchen. We are proud of how well they played.

WORLD YOUTH SCRABBLE CHAMPIONSHIP

Congratulations to Ronnie (Year 11) who ranked 4th in the 2022 in the World Junior Scrabble Championship. Ronnie has kept pursuing this somewhat niche game since he was 5 years old and has made friends all over the world, especially in South and South East Asia where the game is hugely popular.

Ronnie now has a shot at the World Youth Scrabble title in 2023 - he will no doubt aim to win, particularly as it will be held in person.

AUSTRALIAN INDOOR ROWING CHAMPIONSHIPS

CGS competed in the Australian Indoor Rowing Championships. Roughly 100 CGS Students raced in the event, which was live-streamed internationally. CGS finished with one gold, three silver and six bronze medals. Senior rowers and CGS Rowing Association additionally raised over $1000 toward Lismore Rowing Club, to support the Club in rebuilding their programme and providing access to rowing in their community. A special congratulations to Year 9 Students Alistair, Lucas, Harry, and Ethan who are Australian Indoor Rowing Champions in the men’s under 16 team.

Y12 STUDENT V STAFF DEBATE

During their final days at CGS, Year 12 students engaged their teachers and staff members in a heated and impassioned debate on the importance and value of nursery rhymes. The debate concluded with the Year 12 gaining victory!

SUE GEH CUP

CGS Year 5 and 6 girls won the ACT Southside division of the Sue Geh cup at the Tuggeranong basketball stadium last Thursday. They now go into the finals against the ACT Northside champions in October. The girls played extremely well and displayed great sportsmanship, congratulations!

DINO MUSEUM

Early Learning Centre received a visit from The National Dinosaur Museum. Students learned about different fossils, imprints, and the age of the dinosaurs. They had lots of fun creating their very own fossil casts to keep at the ELC!

RUGBY PINK ROUND

CGS hosted its annual Rugby Pink Round in August in support of breast cancer awareness. All donations collected during the event went toward to National Breast Cancer Foundation.

CGS STAFF FAREWELLS

ASHLEY HOGAN

Mr Ashley Hogan has been an integral part of the life of Canberra Grammar School for the last 27 years, having joined CGS in 1996. In his time at CGS, Ashley has been a superb teacher of English, Australian Studies, and History, and a steadfast Assistant Head of Sheaffe House. In all his teaching he brought intellectual rigour balanced with an engaging style. His artfulness of language, both written and spoken, his deeply analytical bent, his integrity, and his downto-earth nature have been powerful in the classroom, ensuring his students are challenged and received more than just a syllabus education.

As the Head of Australian Studies for 20 years he created a superb programme shining a light on current issues, challenging senior students with a taste of lecture and tutorial learning. On the co-curricular front, he brought his years of experience as a journeyman tennis professional to building a large and capable tennis programme which culminated in the construction of the new tennis courts. As a member of staff, Ashley has been a terrific colleague to all, but will be best remembered for his witty yet respectful farewell speeches to departing staff, and his 2018 playful interrogation of Dr Garrick in that year’s final staff meeting.

KERRI ROCK

Ms Kerri Rock, retires after 15 years at the School; 13 in the leadership team. Having joined in 2008 to teach Economics, Ms Rock has been in turn Director of Teaching and Learning, Director of Studies, Director of Teaching Development, and Director of Strategic Operations. She has done with full and selfless commitment whatever the School has needed, applying the strength and determination that made her a champion international swimmer in her youth, along with the personal care, humour and practicality that all who know her so love and value.

Her role is fundamentally to help others get done what needs to be done. As a consequence, she has been instrumental to countless strategic projects and achievements across both the Primary School and the Senior School in our transformation over the past decade, including in the domains of teaching and learning, professional development, educational technology, policy and procedure, school registration, international education, co-education, reconciliation and Indigenous education, for which she has a particular personal commitment.

Ms Rock has been a caring mentor to students and staff, and a central member of a close-knit leadership team that has supported each other through good times and tough. We will miss her deeply.

At the end of 2022 we farewelled these longserving and senior collegues.

CGS STAFF MOVEMENTS

A NEW CHAPTER AT CGS FOR DAVID SMART

David Smart has been the epitome of servant leadership, for more than a decade, in his role as Head of Senior School. David’s wisdom and sure guidance has charted a steady course through massive transformation in our School: our transition to co-education, the introduction of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, the creation of new Houses, the re-launch of boarding, the significant redevelopment of our campus, our rapid growth, changes to co-curricular activity and, of course, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is no small thing to have led the enormous community of the Senior School, with all its complexity and challenges, through so much in so short a time with such measured calm and care.

Like many, I have learnt from him; I have relied on him; I have sought his strength and counsel, and for all that he has given in service as Head of Senior School. I look forward very much to working with him as he takes on his new role as Deputy Head (Senior Specialist Care) giving particular focus in the Senior School to complex matters of pastoral care and behaviour management, to child protection, to the Manaro boarding community, and to our specialist support services.

We wish him the best in his new role.

– Dr Justin Garrick, Head of School

OUT OF THE ARCHIVES -

Concert Band 2022

Former Music Classroom 1988

Garnsey House Shout 1988

Garnsey House Shout 2022

John Lingard Hall OpeningNight1980

Chorale Choir 1984

Opening Night 2022

Concert Band 1983

Music Classroom 2022

Snow Concert Hall Foundation Stone Unveilling 2022

John Lingard Hall Foundation Stone Unveilling 1980

The McKeown Family returns to CGS

On Saturday 30 July it was a pleasure to welcome back Wilma McKeown (widow of CGS Head Paul McKeown 1970 - 1985) and her five adult children to Canberra Grammar School. Chris, Jonathon, Deidre, Penelope and Libby along with Wilma enjoyed a tour of the School grounds to reminisce about their time living as a family on campus, and the joys and challenges that provided.

Going through the home they grew up in, which we now know as the Community Development Office and Senior School Reception, was a highlight. It brought back memories of childhood and a life of any normal family where dad spent much of his time “working from home”. We thank the family for taking the time to visit and providing a new sense of life and insight into the history of CGS.

– Tammy Foley, Alumni & Philanthropy Manager

A CLEAR VIEW TO BROAD HORIZONS THE MEMOIRS OF PAUL MCKEOWN is available for purchase.

CGS ALUMNI

WHERE ARE THEY NOW

TOM CHRISTIAN (CGS 2010)

Tom graduated CGS in 2010 and spent a gap year in the UK. He returned to Canberra and studied Sport and Exercise Science while working for a small tech company in Fyshwick, which supplied tracking devices to sports clubs around the world. This branched him into sports clubs and stadiums around the globe. These experiences piqued his interest in sports technology and the role it plays in physical performance and sports medicine. Tom has since completed an extended Masters in Physiotherapy in Sydney and transitioned into club land with the Canberra Raiders since 2018. Tom carved a career for himself in a very competitive industry and has successfully worked in the sector for over eight years.

His journey at Canberra Grammar School had quite an impact on his career choices. ‘ I was always encouraged to pursue to the things that I enjoyed. I played lots of sports throughout school which provided a competitive outlet and satisfaction. That probably served as an undercurrent to work in a competitive professional sport environment where outcomes are purely results driven.’

Tom’s career highlights include his time working at GPSports Systems, during its acquisition and subsequent listing on the ASX. Another career highlight for him was the 2019 NRL Grand Final, where he stood pitch side singing the national anthem with 83,000 spectators, an experience he says he won’t soon forget. Tom hopes to continue to pursue out a career in sport, particularly in the player health and safety domain. ‘Sport in Australia is at a crossroads where there are many technology platforms and data inputs available for the betterment of codes and athletes, but amalgamating the platforms is challenging.’

REBECCA STAITE (CGS 2018)

Rebecca graduated with the class of 2018, as one of the first batch of girls to graduate Year 12 from Canberra Grammar School since going co-ed. She is currently completing her Bachelor of Law with a major in Politics and International Relations.

‘The road after leaving CGS and getting my foot in the door to this industry was a challenging one. I swapped my major a few times and struggled to find entry-level positions as I did not have any prior legal experience.’ Rebecca worked at Aldi for the first 3 years of her degree but was fortunate to intern at Legal Aid ACT, which was a large stepping stone to her current role.

Now, Rebecca works full-time as a paralegal for a national law firm, Australian Family Lawyers, dealing with general administration to drafting court documents, reviewing subpoenas, and attendance at mediations or hearings. ‘The firm has enabled me to work across multiple jurisdictions and learn from experienced lawyers’ knowledge from across Australia, who care deeply about their work and supporting their clients.’

Her goal for the next year is to finish her degree and complete her practicing legal certificate so she is able to be admitted to practice next December. At the start of next year, Rebecca will also have the opportunity to shadow one of the Canberra Barristers in matters ranging from Family, Criminal and Commercial litigation.

‘CGS provided me with many opportunities which have benefited me in achieving my goals so far. The experiences I had helped me build connections and develop the skills necessary to get my current job and succeed within it. Through the house system, I was able to volunteer with the charity Marymead, working with children affected by disabilities’. Rebecca has continued to work with this charity and involves her firm in their work as well. ‘The house system helped me not only settle into the school but into Australia as well. I enjoyed the duties I had as a house captain as it allowed me to support the other students and run events, such as house netball which the other girls and I started. Supporting and encouraging the younger girls at CGS, as it became coed, is something that made my CGS experience special.’

INTERVIEW WITH DR ALEXEI TRUNDLE (CGS 2005)

– ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (INTERNATIONAL) & MELBOURNE POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW

TELL US ABOUT WHAT YOU HAVE BEEN UP TO SINCE LEAVING CGS IN 2005?

When I left CGS in 2005 I took a gap year in the UK, working as a rowing coach and tutor at Winchester College. When I was at Winchester, I spent my mornings reading newspaper about the review into climate change by Nicholas Stern, commissioned by the UK Government. It had a profound impact on me. As a result, when I came back to Australia, I did a ‘180’ and took up a degree in environmental sustainability at ANU’s Fenner School.

Since then, I’ve spent the last ten years or so doing research into how we can try to cope with the impacts of climate change that are either unavoidable, likely, or in some cases looking at how to plan for ‘worst case’ scenarios, focusing especially on cities and the urban poor. I finished a PhD looking at these impacts on Pacific Island cities in 2023, and now work at the Melbourne Centre for Cities, which is a research centre at the University of Melbourne.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE SINCE GRADUATING FROM CGS?

There have been times when my work on climate change adaptation felt like it wasn’t having enough positive impact working with large corporations that didn’t take their responsibilities seriously enough. My way of coping with this was to re-apply whatever spare time I had in activism and volunteering – I spent time with the Australian Youth Climate Coalition and as well as volunteering with their national team, did a fundraising hike with them to Everest Base Camp where I made friends with some amazing young people, who have gone on to have brilliant careers working on the climate crisis.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT SO FAR?

I’ve been really privileged to have worked in some amazing places, and that has meant that I’ve been able to see – and try to understand – just how different other parts of the world can be, and the strength that we all draw on from this diversity of experiences and ways of seeing and being. While doing research in Vanuatu’s capital Port Vila I was based out of a tent that was a few metres from the shoreline of a sheltered reef, camping at the back of a colleague’s rental property on the city’s fringe in a place called Pango. It was a pretty unusual setting to finish a four year long research project and made me really appreciate the different ways of seeing Pacific cities and what they can be.

WHAT IMPACT DID CGS HAVE ON YOUR CAREER CHOICES AND JOURNEY?

I think it would be easy to look back on all of the classical music training that I did at school and dismiss it as not too relevant to my current career, but in reality I learnt a huge number of skills through music that I apply every day, whether it is projecting or modulating my voice when I facilitate workshops or do public speaking, or if it is in a deeper sense in reading group dynamics or understanding the different ‘languages’ that people use to communicate.

I also can’t underestimate the impact that CGS Geography had on my way of seeing the world, particularly in applying scientific and spatial thinking in the ‘real world’ as a way of analysing and finding solutions to problems.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ALEXEI TRUNDLE? WHERE DO YOU HOPE TO BE IN 5 OR 10 YEARS ONCE YOUR RESEARCH IS COMPLETE?

I really value working in the higher education sector, doing research at a university is a real privilege and comes with a freedom to express your findings truthfully, be critical of injustices, and to seek out new ideas in an exploratory way. I hope that in 5 or 10 years I will have been able to bring others along with me on that journey, particularly young people from the Pacific, who are vastly underrepresented within the Australian tertiary sector as both students and staff. The research that I do is also very ‘applied’, working with city governments and local communities. I would hope in a decade’s time there are some tangible changes ‘on the ground’ that I can see in the communities and cities that I work with, as they face accelerating climate impacts.

ALUMNI REUNIONS 2022

We’re back into the fullness of Alumni engagements. Brisbane and Perth reunions in August and November respectively covered off our state visits across Australia

We are hoping to build on these annual events in 2023 with not only a fun get together but with an experience! We are always open to suggestions, so please let us know if you have an idea or connection which would make for a good gathering.

Having spent time this year at the Henty Field Day and Harden Kite Festival, it was a pleasure as always to have Alumni come up and show their support. They’re always up for a good yarn and story, and they’re amazed by how much has changed back at School.

It was a treat to see our Brisbane Alumni members in person, especially as the last gathering was virtual due COVID-19 travel restrictions. We had a great turnout at the reunion held in August at the Port Office Hotel.

In November we had a wonderful reunion with our Alumni in Perth. The Island Brew House right on Elizabeth Quay was the perfect setting for an evening of networking and catching up with old friends.

Since the class of 2012 couldn’t attend the Alumni weekend in May, they were hosted back at the School in midNovember. The collective of 30 young men thoroughly enjoyed the day hosted by David Smart and Kerri Rock.

The final reunion for 2022 was from the one year out Class of 2021 held at Badger & Co at the ANU. A great turn out of more than 60 enjoyed an eventful catch up before venturing into Civic!

VINTAGE CLUB

The annual Vintage Club reunion saw a record number in attendance for those who were +50 years out. The day began with Chapel followed by a Senior School Assembly. We were honoured to hear from Professor Malcolm Gillies (CGS School Captain in 1972), who spoke at the assembly. Professor Gillies reflected upon his years at CGS and spoke of critical issues relating to climate change, inflation and being a positive force in the world we live in, well as how we can enable change for the better.

The assembly also included musical performances by the Senior School band and was followed by Lunch in the Dining Hall.

ANNUAL ALUMNI LUNCHEON

The class of 2022 is the latest group to join the Alumni community with the annual luncheon in the Dining Hall held in the final weeks of Term 3. Four former alumni were invited to speak and focus on their memories whilst at CGS and the journeys they have encountered since leaving school. Guests this year included Tiger Steele (CGS 2021), Rebecca Staite (CGS 2018), Chris Wilson (CGS 2007), and Brent Carolan (CGS 1986) whose reflections were entertaining and intellectually challenging.

SAVE THE DATE 2023 REUNIONS & EVENTS

For specific information about any of these or other Alumni and Community events, please email us at alumni@cgs.act.edu.au or call +61 (2) 6260 9665.

STAY CONNECTED WITH ALUMNI

If you’re not connected already, you could be missing out on eNews, reunion information and networking opportunities! If you or someone you know has lost contact with the School, reconnect by email or social media. community@cgs.act.edu.au

CGS

SATURDAY 1 APRIL SAVE THE DATE!

CGS FOUNDATION

THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS

The CGS Foundation has much gratitude for the ongoing support of the CGS community. Throughout 2022 we have seen amazing generosity from our alumni, staff, current and past parents, grandparents, and students themselves.

We thank every donor for their contribution and commitment to providing the best opportunities and facilities to our current and future students, and for inspiring others to create an everlasting impact through campus development and student scholarships.

GIVING IN 2022

PATRONS

BENEFACTORS

Donor details are listed as entered at time of donation. If you believe you have been omitted from this list, we apologise. Please contact us at: foundation@cgs.act.edu.au

FELLOWS

MEMBERS

T +61 (2) 6260 9700

E communications@cgs.act.edu.au

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