COLLEGIAN The MAGAZINE of Brisbane Boys’ College
YEAR IN REVIEW
CELEBRATING OUR ACHIEVEMENTS
December 2018
COLLEGIAN ISS U E 1 D E C E M BER 2018 UPFRONT
6
Foreword Words from our Headmaster, Paul Brown
9
We bid you adieu Farewell to departing staff, Mr Barry Dean and Mrs Jacqueline McPherson
BBC NEWS
10
Strategic direction A New School of Thought: The Strategic Direction for Brisbane Boys' College 2019-2021
Published by Brisbane Boys’ College CRICOS Code 00491J Kensington Terrace, Toowong, Queensland 4066 T 07 3309 3569 F 07 3371 2679 W www.bbc.qld.edu.au A SCHOOL OF THE PRESBYTERIAN AND METHODIST SCHOOLS ASSOCIATION
Editors Natalie Claut and Peter Franks Graphic Design Tracey Maree Contributors Kelly Edwards, Tiffany Hardy, Helen Jackson and College staff Photography Michael Marston ePixel Images
14
35
Celebrating the achievements of our 2017 scholars
Discover the Junior School difference at BBC
Expect great things
21
BBC on the world stage Our Pipe Band and Robotics teams take on the world
29
Outdoor education Engaging our boys in a world of active outdoor learning experiences
31
Changing lives one coffee at a time Educating children and supporting communities through our Coffee for Cambodia initiative
Young learners thrive
37
When workshop skills and science collide A design collaboration between Middle and Junior School students
41
Boys are tribal Implementing our new social and emotional wellbeing program for boarders
42
From child to man A fitting farewell to the Class of 2018
BBC NEWS 12 Portfolio based student leadership Empowering students to positively impact their school environment
13 Executive and senior management team Meet our College leadership team
27 Working with boys Practical Wisdom: A collection of teaching strategies as told by our staff
17
Celebrating the GPS Centenary A spirit of fellowship that unites nine GPS schools and makes us 100 years strong COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
BBC ARTS
45
Energetic and engaging Junior School Expressive Arts Program and our Wakakirri story
47
Season tickets
REGULAR ITEMS
55
78
The launch of SchoolTV at BBC
The Walker family connection to early BBC bagpipe chanters
Insight
70
Flashback
Snapshots Scenes from key College events
Students take to the stage in Hamlet and Regicide theatre productions
48
Music short reads Student achievements in music
BBC SPORT
52
Take a bow Sporting short reads and representative honours
CONNECT
60
Spotlight on OCA events Snapshots from recent OCA activities
64
Ninjas of today, leaders of tomorrow Valuable lessons in leadership inspired by an Old Boy and delivered by BBC students
74
Access. Equity. Tradition. News from the BBC Foundation
76
Where are they now Catch up with Old Collegians
EDITORS HAVE COMPILED THIS EDITION OF COLLEGIAN FROM VARIOUS SOURCES. WHILE EVERY CARE HAS BEEN TAKEN TO ENSURE THE INFORMATION IS PUBLISHED ACCURATELY, THE EDITORS CANNOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY INACCURACIES IN THE CONTENT OR AUTHENTICITY OF THAT INFORMATION.
From the Editors NATALIE CLAUT AND PETER FRANKS
The College was founded by Mr Arthur (Barney) Rudd in 1902 and on the day it opened, four students arrived ready to commence their education. Today, 116 years later, more than 1500 day boys and boarders form our school community, along with a very warm and supportive contingent of parents and Old Collegians who have a deep affection for BBC and show their support for their boys and the College on a daily basis. This is a wonderful community of which to be a part and we want to share our unique BBC spirit with as many families as possible. The guiding philosophy at BBC is simple; we are All about the boy, each and every boy, each and every day. Our school motto of Let Honour Stainless Be encourages boys to always seek to do the honourable thing, even if it is not always the popular choice. Our rich and proud traditions, the symbols of which are everywhere to be seen, such as the distinctive boater the boys wear, the pipes and drums which are heard at all significant occasions, our boarding, sporting and cultural history, all help to galvanise our inclusive community of students, Old Collegians, parents, staff and friends who share in our highs and lows each year. Our extensive academic, co-curricular and sports programs provide boys with the opportunity to develop a range of skills and talents both in and out of the classroom. Music, debating, cultural and service activities, provide rich opportunities for boys to gain mastery of a particular discipline or simply to enjoy areas they are passionate about. From robotics to rowing, physics to photography, coding to canoeing, there are truly so many opportunities and activities for boys to discover and explore. These activities help boys to embrace a spirit of service
and fellowship, healthy competition and creativity, which ultimately enriches their educational experience. Reading through the following pages, it is easy to see that 2018 has been an outstanding year for BBC. The incredible achievements of our students, across such a broad spectrum of activities, gives explanation to why Brisbane Boys’ College enjoys such a fine reputation in Brisbane and across the country. Our boys inspire every day. Their love of learning and their eagerness to participate is evident across our campus and you can sense this unique BBC spirit on every page of this publication. The cohort of 2018 can be exceptionally proud that they have written another stellar chapter in the history of our great College. We hope you enjoy reading this edition of Collegian and find time to reflect on the great things that have taken place at Brisbane Boys’ College over the past 12 months. Together we celebrate the achievements of our students, thank our staff, parents and supporters, and look forward to an even bigger and better 2019.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
6 | UPFRONT
Foreword PAUL BROWN, HEADMASTER
The following is an excerpt from the Headmaster’s Speech Night address
B
y any standard, 2018 has been a year of outstanding accomplishment. We have seen our boys at their best across a comprehensive range of activities both at home and abroad. We have seen boys in their day to day school lives actively participating in the life of the College, quietly getting on with job at hand, contributing to the best of their ability and with a sense of collegiality and authentic school spirit. For a school to have a tangible sense of esprit de corps, and a palpably positive and inclusive quality that is so evident at BBC, all must play their part and all have a part to play. BBC was magnificently represented on the world stage in August of this year by our Pipe Band at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the World Championships and the boys distinguished themselves by their talent, commitment and impeccable behaviour. Similarly, our boys from Robotics represented the College, and Australia, at the RoboCup World Championships in Montreal in June. Once again our students triumphed at the highest level but just as importantly were wonderful ambassadors who would often lend a hand to other teams when expert assistance was required.
On the domestic front, the College has had a very successful year. In the GPS competitions we were Centenary Year champions in Cross Country for the first time in our history, in Tennis for the sixth consecutive year and, most recently, we became the GPS Track and Field Champions for the third successive year. In other sports and activities, we placed second in Chess, Basketball, Cricket, Volleyball and 'A' Debating, and placed third in Rugby, Gymnastics and Sailing. The success of our Water Polo teams made us the pre-eminent school in that sport. Commendable lower place finishes to Football, Swimming and Rowing rounded out a vibrant and enjoyable co-curricular year.
While we have enjoyed wonderful results, what best symbolises the spirit of the College, is the willingness of so many boys to wear the College colours alongside their mates and enjoy all the benefits of friendly competition regardless of the result on the scoreboard.
PB
When we reflect upon the achievements of 2018, we could easily fall into a sense of complacency and satisfaction with the status quo, however, if our students are to graduate as capable and committed young men, able to make a telling contribution to the world of tomorrow, we need to continually refine and renew what we do. We will respect our past while creating and shaping our future. We are a school of proud traditions but with an innovative and progressive disposition. We need to be open to the world and open to new ways of thinking rather than believing that ‘good’ is good enough. Along with my appointment as the ninth Headmaster of BBC, 2018 has also been a year of renewal. A year where there has been a changing of the guard at the leadership level of the College. As such new leaders have now taken their place in each of the three sub-schools which make up the College. These leaders bring years of experience, unique gifts and talents, fresh ideas and dreams, and a commitment to boys’ education. We are all stewards of this fine institution for a short period of time in the big scheme of things, and it is incumbent upon us to work in the best interests of the College, and, when it
UPFRONT | 7
comes time, to pass the College on to those who follow, better for us having been here. An education should allow students to develop convictions, to understand ethics, to ask challenging questions. Our society benefits from people who are both robust and compassionate, who are not afraid of life or of other people. Our society benefits from people who develop virtues within themselves. We all love dealing with people who are trustworthy, honest and kind. We are a College. We are an academic institution that strives for excellence. And while we are not an academically selective school, our academic results are outstanding and consistently rank among the very best in the State. Excellence is arrived at by teaching the academic subjects well and by engaging students personally. And we are committed to the thinking process, this comes from dedicated, hard-working and gifted teachers who build powerful working relationships with their students. In fact, in regular surveys of students, the boys saw the positive relationships they have with their teachers as one of the College’s great strengths. At BBC we are often referred to as an all-round school. That is, a school that provides opportunities across a broad range of curricular and co-curricular activities and which also seeks to develop boys on a personal, social, emotional and spiritual basis so that they become fully-rounded human beings. While we are happy to be referred to as an all-round school and take pride in that appellation, the phrase ‘all-round school’ can sometimes carry the pejorative connotation of ‘all-round competence’, that is, being content to do many things very well but nothing to the highest levels of achievement.
We should not be content to judge ourselves against other schools in our immediate environment but we should raise our sights and draw inspiration from the best educational systems around the world and from evidence-based research. And so, we will be ambitious for our school and look beyond our shores to critically analyse what the best schools and school systems around the world have to offer.
IMAGE TOP: SPEECH NIGHT 2018 IMAGE BELOW PAUL WITH HIS WIFE AND DAUGHTERS (LR) ALICIA, PAUL, JULIET AND KAREN
Our Outdoor Education program and the breadth of our co-curricular offerings in music, theatre, art and sport, in chess and debating, Amnesty and robotics, provides students with expectations and challenge and, therefore, with the opportunity for wisdom. The best teaching and learning occurs using a variety of styles and techniques, which enhance student engagement. We can be confident of our students becoming successful adults if we not only provide them with knowledge but give them the power and agency to apply knowledge in a variety of contexts and constructs. We must teach them foundational literacies; numeracy, scientific literacy, language literacy, ICT literacy, cultural and civic literacy, as well as key 21st century competencies such as; critical thinking and problem solving, creativity, communication and collaboration. We must also build their character qualities such as; curiosity, initiative, persistence, adaptability, leadership and social and cultural awareness. This requires a refreshed approach to teaching and learning, what we refer to as A New School of Thought and A New Way of Thinking.
We strive to be a world class school so as to help our students be confident and competent global citizens with the capability to change the world. I believe a world class school is one in which every child is provided with the opportunity to achieve. And while we will assist each boy to achieve to their potential, we will not seek to define potential too readily, because in defining or categorising potential, we risk placing limits on a boy’s potential. We know that our students are highly capable and will rise to a challenge that is presented to them. There is no greater joy than the feeling of accomplishment that comes from going beyond what we thought was possible. For beyond the comfort zone lies the learning zone. Learning and wisdom can come from a variety of sources; they can occur within the classroom and without.
PB
A key area of focus for the College in 2019, and in the years beyond, is in introducing positive psychology as the framework on which we construct a holistic and fit for purpose wellbeing program. This is a most significant development in our Strategic Direction for student social and emotional wellbeing. Our House System places enormous importance on knowing boys individually and helping them to grow emotionally, spiritually and with a positive mindset so that they develop a strong sense of self and of others. Staff will provide a purposeful, age-specific and sequential wellbeing program based on the science of positive psychology and in line with our commitment to our Christian values, beliefs and teachings to equip students with the
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
8 | UPFRONT
FOREWORD much needed skills to navigate their way through their school years and provide them with the tools to lead purposeful and flourishing lives. Wellbeing is not only about providing a safe and secure environment for our students but also about equipping them to make informed decisions, to grow in responsibility and maturity, and to become more resilient, so that they are able to take in their stride all the challenges that their senior years will inevitably place before them. We seek to develop articulate, cultured and highly-educated young men of conscience and compassion, who know themselves and demonstrate support for others, and who have the tenacity to endure and overcome adversity and who are prepared to take their place in society and contribute to the broader community. BBC has a flourishing cultural life where creativity is encouraged and nurtured. There is something special about a boys’ school that has such a vibrant creative and performing arts culture. We are a school with a heart and soul and we will continue to support and encourage creativity and the expression of ideas through these mediums. We are proud to support the arts and know they hold a special place in the cultural life of the College. Brisbane Boys’ College is a very special school and a very special community. We do extraordinary things as a matter of course and it is all due to our people; from our youngest Prep boy to our most senior member of staff. We are a school that is proud of its cultural and ethnic diversity and honour the identity of every boy. Our future prospects are bright. I believe we will continue to develop and thrive, to fulfil our mission and to be a truly world class school. It is said that it takes a village to raise a child. Similarly, it takes an entire community working in partnership and staying united in a common purpose to build a great school. We all need to work together to achieve our goal.
My messages to the boys of BBC are; be creative at school, have a go, be curious, engage with the big ideas but be disciplined in every aspect of your school life, enjoy the grounds and gardens, enjoy your friendships, work hard to be the best you can be, learn to be humble but still contribute positively with all your heart, be active, learn to question, do not compare yourselves with others, be a trustworthy person. And see the purpose of your learning as being about the contribution you can make. I wish to thank everyone who has contributed to making this year such a great success. The College Council serves the school well and I thank them for their vigorous and vital engagement with the issues of the College. I recognise the commitment and work that is performed on a voluntary basis by these keen supporters of the College. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our parent community for their commitment and enthusiastic support of the College. I also wish to thank Old Collegians, benefactors and friends, business partners, contractors and consultants, and, of course, the students of Brisbane Boys’ College. I also wish to commend the very good work of our staff that enables this College to run successfully. I have appreciated the welcome and support of our current Year 12 cohort and our three outstanding Year 12 leaders, College Captain, Jack Gallagher, and College Co-Vice Captains, James Ward and Max Clayton. To the departing graduate class of 2018, I wish you the very best for the future and encourage you to take every opportunity life presents to you. Sail to the furthest horizon, climb that mountain, accept the
PB
inevitable challenges that come your way and demonstrate compassion to others. Be bold, be brave and be good. Always be proud that you were educated at BBC. I trust that you will always have a great affection for your Alma Mater and know that you will always be welcome. I hope that BBC becomes that place where you reconnect with each other for the rest of your lives. I know you enter the world as young men of integrity, faith, compassion and wisdom. And I know that you will make a valuable contribution to society.
UPFRONT | 9
Tribute to Mr Barry Dean We farewell and pay tribute to our Head of Teaching and Learning, Mr Barry Dean, who will retire at the end of this year. Mr Dean commenced at Brisbane Boys’ College in 2001. Barry has an extraordinary knowledge of curriculum, attention to detail, a steadfast devotion to the College and to helping each and every boy to achieve to the best of his ability. He is very much a gentle man and is held in the highest regard by his colleagues. Comments such as ‘a true ‘gentleman of honour’, ‘a wonderful role model to boys and colleagues‘, ‘an outstanding professional’, ‘friendly, calm and measured’, ‘always a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone’, ‘fostering a very collegial environment’ epitomises the high esteem in which Mr Dean is held. It is common knowledge to those who know him that Barry is a man of great passion and dedication. His thirst for knowledge is extraordinary. He is always willing to share ideas and resources with colleagues, and is consistently looking to improve practices at BBC. He is a man of exceptional character. His passion for student wellbeing has not waned over time. His number one priority has always been to get the best outcome for students, and he is able to place this above other competing interests. He has been a tireless worker, and has dedicated himself fully to the College during his tenure as Head of Teaching and Learning. There is no doubt that he is an outstanding educator in every way. He is caring and compassionate, hardworking and completely dedicated to his craft. Many generations of BBC staff and students have had their lives touched by Barry Dean. The College community certainly wish Barry and his wife, Pam, a long and happy retirement and we thank him most sincerely for his service and for sharing his talents and gifts with our community.
Tribute to Mrs Jacqueline McPherson At the conclusion of this year, we farewell and pay tribute to our retiring Chairman of College Council, Mrs Jacqueline McPherson, after years of dedicated service to the BBC Council and to the PMSA. Mrs McPherson has been the Chairman of BBC Council for the past eight years and a member of the PMSA Council for the past 26 years. During her tenure she has had a profound impact upon the College. Her contribution as a volunteer to the good governance of this place has been immense. She has been both a tireless and faithful servant of the College and the PMSA. Mrs McPherson has invested hours upon hours of her time each week working for the greater good of Brisbane Boys’ College. She epitomises the ideal of service for the good of others. She has a deep affection for BBC and it is well known that it takes only a few skirls from the bagpipes for her to rally to the Green, White and Black. As Mrs McPherson retires from the PMSA and College Councils at the end of this year, the entire College community wish her God’s blessing and a fulfilling and enriching retirement.
PB
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
10 | BBC NEWS
Strategic Direction 2019 - 2021
Brisbane Boys’ College started with humble beginnings as Clayfield College some 116 years ago. Today’s world is very different from that of 1902 - the current structure, administration and implementation of the Teaching and Learning program, the political, social and economic environment bears little resemblance to that of those early days. The College of today, with its wonderful educational offering, extensive facilities and strong community supporting all facets of the school, did not happen by accident. The spirit of innovation and service to the community characterised by our College’s earliest founders, benefactors and pioneering students is our contemporary legacy. The educational institution we see today has resulted from the combined efforts of many people. It is also the result of the vision and hard work of successive College Councils, Headmasters, numerous staff and supporters, over generations, which has created a wellrounded education for the boys of Brisbane Boys’ College and fostered our culture of service. We remain uncompromising in our ambition for the College to be at the forefront of education, nationally and internationally, as well as to equip each of our boys to live full, purposeful lives. The PMSA Council, along with the College Council, ensures the development and implementation of strategic directions and
supporting policies to enable it to fulfil its objectives, make prudent financial decisions and monitor the College’s investments for the future. It is vital that we have put in place strong, coherent plans, for today and future years, and that we continue to strive for enhancement in all facets of the College. Our objective is to ensure we create a College that enables every boy to flourish - to produce men who have the confidence and capability to change the world. Our Strategic Direction document builds on the substantial achievements of the past 100-plus years, while ensuring we provide clear direction for the College in the years ahead. Our Senior Leadership Team has reviewed each goal, creating welldefined, measurable actions for the period 2019 - 2021. Our Strategic Direction enables each of us to extend the legacy we inherited from our founders. Together, we can continue to shape, guide and sustain our progress. Never before in the history of Brisbane Boys’ College has our vision and mission had so much resonance. A New School of Thought: The Strategic Direction for Brisbane Boys’ College 2019-2021. On behalf of the College, I commend this plan to the Brisbane Boys’ College community.
BBC NEWS | 11
Our Guiding Principles Sit Sine Labe Decus ~ Let Honour Stainless Be
MOTTO
MISSION
Within the context of a caring Christian community, each student will be nurtured and educated to develop his God-given talents to the best of his ability through a balanced involvement in the academic, spiritual, service, sporting and cultural life of the College
VISION
A New School of Thought
PURPOSE
To produce men who have the confidence and capability to change the world
PRIORITIES
AIMS
STUDENT LEARNING
STAFF
WELLBEING
LEADERSHIP
Provide a world-class educational environment for learners of all ages
Evidence based teaching and learning framework
Advance growth and professional development of staff
Lead, promote and foster the development of wellbeing
Lead with integrity, compassion and purpose
Our Affiliations The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools’ Association (PMSA) The Great Public Schools’ Association of Queensland (GPS) Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ) International Boys’ School Coalition (IBSC) Positive Education Schools Australia (PESA) Giraadji Group of Schools, Australia
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
12 | BBC NEWS
BRISBANE BOYS' COLLEGE PREFECT PORTFOLIOS ACADEMIC
LEADERSHIP
WELLBEING
PREFECT
COLLEGE CAPTAIN
PREFECT
HOUSE
PEER SUPPORT
PERFORMING ARTS
BOARDING
SOCIAL ACTION
PREFECT
PREFECT
PREFECT
PREFECT
PREFECT
SPIRITUAL LIFE
SPORTS
VISUAL ARTS
PREFECT
PREFECT
PREFECT
PORTFOLIO BASED STUDENT LEADERSHIP DAMON EMTAGE, DEPUTY HEADMASTER AND HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL
The concept of student leadership is often used interchangeably with the terms student agency, student voice, and student participation. Empowering students to have a discernible impact on their school environment is an optimal outcome of student leadership. The College has launched a contemporary, distributed, inclusive and student led model of student leadership for 2019. This will be characterised by Prefects chairing 11 portfolios compromising leadership, academic, wellbeing, House, social action, performing arts, visual arts, sport, spiritual life, boarding, and peer support responsibilities. Within each of these portfolios will be opportunities for boys from Years 7 to 12 to form representative steering groups. This new model of student leadership will provide more opportunities for boys, across the school, to develop their skills in leading others, and themselves. The new portfolio model of leadership will foster meaningful participation and experiences by modelling democratic processes, enabling boys to contribute to an area of school life where they feel connected. This model will draw upon the strengths, interests, and curiosities of a broad range of boys throughout the College, encouraging them to be active citizens within the College community. One in three boys will have access to leadership opportunities in this model of student leadership. One of the features of the portfolio system is that both boys and teachers will co-create the vision and expectations within each portfolio. In this sense, teachers and boys will share the learning and
leadership experiences and, significantly, boys will have an authentic avenue for having their voices heard and validated. It is our belief that this new model of leadership will further encourage student participation and a sense of belonging. Essential 21st century skills such as collaboration, problem solving, creativity, and critical thinking are the invaluable by-products of this new student facilitated model of leadership. Broad vertical student access to leadership opportunities through the College will produce a snowball effect of virtuous student leadership. Traditional student leadership models are characterised by a hero based model of influence whereby leadership is solely entrusted to senior students and renewed in focus each year. In a whole school portfolio based student leadership model, not only are student leadership opportunities available to a broad range of students of varying ages, but impact and efforts of successive leadership years are built upon and learnt from. This enhances student leadership development over time that honours the best of the past and allows leadership to be a skill that can learnt, rather than bestowed upon based on age.
BBC NEWS | 13
2018 EXECUTIVE TEAM
Mr Paul Brown HEADMASTER
Mr Damon Emtage
DEPUTY HEADMASTER HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL
Mr David Bell
HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL
Mr Keith Dalleywater
HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL
Mr Barry Dean
HEAD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING
Mr Mark Dwyer
HEAD OF CO-CURRICULUM
Mr Chris Duffy
BUSINESS MANAGER
Mr Peter Franks
HEAD OF ADVANCEMENT
The 2019 Executive Team will include Dr Leigh Hobart, Head of Academic Performance and Innovation and Mr Sean Riordan, Head of Professional Practice and Partnerships.
Executive and Senior Management Team With new leadership, comes change. However, Headmaster, Mr Paul Brown, understands the importance of traditions and icons to the Brisbane Boys’ College story; the boater, the Pipe Band, the war cry, the Highlander. Under his leadership as ninth Headmaster of Brisbane Boys’ College, the heritage of 116 years will stand strong as he maintains high expectations through a clearly defined set of standards, adding to the tone and character of the College and its members. The College Executive, under the leadership of the Headmaster, plan, manage and direct the various activities, programs and future directions of the College. Such activities include the academic programs, academic performance and innovative practices; student wellbeing programs; financial viability, capital works and campus development; strategic planning, development and design; and the overall decision making across each of these areas. Individual members of the College Executive bring a vast array of knowledge, skills and experience to the weekly meetings, each possessing sound analytical and problem-solving skills to determine how best to maximise advantage to the College across a myriad of activities and programs. Each member also plays a role in developing and exemplifying the College’s corporate culture, innovation, collaboration and social engagement.
2018 SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM P-12
A number of senior staff have been invited to join the Executive Team periodically to form the Senior Management Team P-12 so as to broaden the conversations and input around whole school strategic initiatives. The Senior Management Team will meet for an extended period of time each term to look at whole school strategic planning. Dr Leigh Hobart
DEPUTY HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL TEACHING & LEARNING
Mr Mark Griffith
DEPUTY HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION & STUDENT WELLBEING
Rev Graham Cole CHAPLAIN
Mr Sean Riordan
DIRECTOR OF PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
Mr Brett Jennings
DEAN OF STUDIES
Mr Matthew McEwen
DIRECTOR OF BOARDING
Mr Thomas Cook
DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY AND E-LEARNING
Ms Kirsten Ferguson
HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER
Mr Mark Pavone
SPORTSMASTER
Mr Theo Kotzas
We thank departing staff Barry Dean, Mark Dwyer and Thomas Cook for their contributions to the College throughout their time on the Executive and Senior Management teams and wish them well in their retirement and future endeavours.
HEAD OF PERFORMANCE MUSIC
Ms Trish Whellum
FINANCIAL CONTROLLER
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
14 | BBC NEWS
Expect Great Things At Brisbane Boys’ College, we don’t just teach our boys to answer the question correctly, we teach them to ask the correct question and discover the role they can play in the world. Each year we are immensely proud of our Senior students who walk through the Portal and journey beyond the school gates equipped with the confidence and capability to change the world. Last year, our 2017 Senior cohort achieved outstanding results with 43.6 percent of OP Eligible Students securing an OP between 1 and 5 and 83.9 percent achieving a score between 1 and 10, with more than 77 percent of our OP Eligible Students achieving either an A or B grade in the Queensland Core Skills Test. For Headmaster, Mr Paul Brown, the real success story belongs to all 2017 Seniors who are now forging their individual journey, having excelled in their pathway of choice. “BBC is a nonselective academic school which focuses on assisting each and every student to reach their potential and prepares them to take their place in the world as confident, competent and compassionate young men who will contribute to the health, wellbeing and prosperity of their community and the nation at large,” said Mr Brown. “At BBC we believe success has many faces and ensuring boys are able to get to where they want to go has always been our first measure of success,” he said.
“
Our boys are encouraged to participate in a wide range of academic, sporting, co-curricular, service and cultural pursuits to develop interests that complement their formal studies.” “Our QTAC entry statistics continue to speak to this with 97.2 per cent of our 2017 Senior cohort receiving a tertiary offer and 69.9 percent receiving their first preference. We are incredibly proud of our Year 12s and their achievements - whatever their pathway may be.”
“These figures highlight the legitimacy of pathways and the importance of supporting all boys to reach their goals, by empowering them with choices as to how they can achieve them.” “It is exciting to see boys opting to pursue a variety of careers from agribusiness, biomedicine, engineering, psychological science, music, health, environmental management, property economics, design and more. For us, these are the real stories; the outcomes that result from an exceptional education and we look forward to hearing of their ongoing achievements.” “2017 was an impressive year for Brisbane Boys’ College, which saw the College claim two GPS Premierships in Tennis and Basketball as well as the GPS Track and Field Championship, not to mention the continuing success of the College’s cultural and service programs.” Whilst preparing students to contribute to their community is a large focus, Mr Brown also believes that the quality of programs delivered at BBC can only be as good as those delivering them. “I want to develop accomplished, well-resourced and inspirational staff, committed to the students under their care and imbued with a strong sense of service, professional learning and collegiality.” “Our job, as educators, is to know your son, to tailor his experience and support him as an individual. This sits at the heart of our guiding philosophy All about the boy. Our approach is, of course, supported by a range of initiatives designed to strengthen his learning experience.”
BBC NEWS | 15
CELEBRATING OUR 2017 SCHOLARS
2017 RESULTS
OP
1 OR 2 AWARDED
27
SCHOLARS
43.6%
OP ELIGIBLE STUDENTS ACHIEVED AN OP 1 TO 5
83.9%
ACHIEVED AN OP 1 TO 10
77.0%
ACHIEVED EITHER AN A OR B GRADE IN THE QLD CORE SKILLS TEST
>
>
QUT VICE-CHANCELLOR'S SCHOLARSHIPS Alistair English - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) / Bachelor of Information Technology Mark Nicolaidis - Bachelor of Property Economics Cooper Richmond - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) These boys were celebrated at a function in recognition of QUT’s premier scholarship where they received their award from the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Margaret Sheil AO.
97.2% 88.6% 69.9%
TJ RYAN SCHOLARSHIP Benjamin Carlyon - Bachelor of Business / Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at QUT
TERTIARY OFFER
QTAC TOP 3 PREFERENCE
2017 College Captain, Ben who received an OP 1, was awarded a prestigious Queensland Department of Education award due to his high academic achievement and outstanding leadership both at BBC and in the local community. The last BBC recipient of this award was William Chan in 2008.
TERTIARY FIRST OFFER
MATHEMATICS AWARDS TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS OFFERS
Sam Tudor - Repeated high competency across several competitions during his time at BBC. Benjamin Morris - Repeated high competency across several competitions during his time at BBC. High Distinction in Australian Mathematics Competition. Jordan Liu - Repeated high competency across several competitions during his time at BBC. High Distinction in ICAS.
UQ: 78 (44.8%) QUT: 48 (27.5%) ACU: 7 (4.02%) USQ: 2 (1.14%) USC: 3 (1.72%)
CQU: 3 (1.72%) GRIFFITH: 2 (1.14%) TAFE: 8 (4.59%) SAE: 1 (0.57%) BOND: 3 (1.72%)
Haoran Huo - High Distinction in the Australian Mathematics Competition. James Yelland - Represented the College in the Metropolitan Mathematics Challenge. Daniel Chen - Represented the College in the Metropolitan Mathematics Challenge. Nakul Doshi - Represented the College in the Metropolitan Mathematics Challenge. COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
16 | BBC NEWS
COL L EGE
Culture . Challenge . College At the 2018 Leaders Induction Assembly, College Captain, Jack Gallagher, and College Co-Vice Captains, Max Clayton and James Ward presented the 2018 College theme.
The theme is illustrated through clasped hands, depicting the unspoken bond shared by current and past Collegians. It is accompanied by three lines that epitomise the essence of a boy’s era as Collegians:
Embrace the Culture . Dare to Challenge . Love the College
Embrace the Culture
Dare to Challenge
Love the College
“This is a place where you are part of something bigger than any one person, a place for which you don the College crest with passion and participate with honour”
“When you walk out on stage, when you cheer from the sideline, when you prepare for a performance or participate in class, you represent yourself, your family and your school.”
“When you walk through those gates you will come to realise that BBC is more than just a school… it is your home. These boys that sit beside you aren’t your classmates; they are your brothers. Miskin Oval is not a field to you; it is your backyard.”
“A gentlemen of honour is someone who respects his peers, but also himself, both in and out of the classroom.”
“When we run onto the rugby field, when we solve a problem in class, when we help our peers and sport our boaters, we carry with us the pride and prestige of 116 years of BBC Old Collegians.”
“Seeing the passion and pride in the faces of Old Collegians, reminds us what a privilege it is to be a Gentleman of Honour and part of an association, steeped in tradition and cultural history.“
BBC NEWS | 17
CELEBRATING THE GPS CENTENARY ON 20 SEPTEMBER 1918, THE GPS ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND WAS FORMED. THIS YEAR WE CELEBRATE THE SPIRIT OF FELLOWSHIP THAT UNITES OUR NINE GPS SCHOOLS AND MAKES US 100 YEARS STRONG.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
18 | BBC NEWS
100 YEARS STRONG
HISTORY OF BRISBANE BOYS’ COLLEGE IN THE GPS ASSOCIATION WITH COMPARABLE PHILOSOPHIES TOWARDS THE IMPORTANCE OF ACADEMICS AND SPORT IN EDUCATION, NINE SCHOOLS FORMED THE GREAT PUBLIC SCHOOLS' ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND IN 1918. AS A FOUNDING MEMBER, BRISBANE BOYS’ COLLEGE (BBC) IS PROUD TO BE PART OF THE GPS COMPETITION AND ETHOS, HAVING ACHIEVED A TOTAL OF 76 GPS PREMIERSHIPS OVER THE LAST 100 YEARS OF SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES. As the most successful rowing school in the GPS Association, Brisbane Boys’ College has a proud history, claiming 23 GPS Rowing Premierships. The 1993 crew represented the green, white and black, as well as the Great Public Schools Association of Queensland, when they competed in the renowned Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup at the Henley Royal Regatta. Tennis is BBC’s second most successful sport with 13 GPS Tennis Premierships under our belt. The College’s Tennis program was recognised nationally at the Tennis Australia Awards in 2015, when Brisbane Boys’ College was awarded Most Outstanding School. GPS Volleyball and GPS Gymnastics saw three and four consecutive GPS Premiership titles to BBC in the late nineties and early noughties. 2011 was an outstanding year for Brisbane Boys’ College, claiming the GPS Basketball, Football, Sailing and Tennis Premierships. The term ‘football’ has referred to numerous codes throughout the College’s sporting history. BBC’s first code of football was Australian Rules in 1914, followed by Soccer three years later. The change was a result of the availability and expertise of coaching staff to Brisbane Boys’ College at the time. By 1920, two years after the GPS Association was established, BBC’s founding Headmaster, Mr Arthur Rudd had adopted Rugby Union until the Association changed it to Rugby League. League only lasted eight years in the GPS, with the member schools eventually reverting back to Union. Despite some incredibly close and fiercely contested matches, a single premiership
for GPS Rugby in 1954 remains the Achilles heel for the school. Regardless, Brisbane Boys’ College continues to produce elite rugby players for both codes. To date, BBC Old Boys account for 14 Wallabies representatives, a State of Origin player, and six players currently in the Australian or Japan Rugby Union Leagues. The College’s move from Clayfield to Toowong in 1931 allowed for the future expansion of the Brisbane Boys’ College campus. Today, BBC’s campus boasts eight tennis courts; a 25m heated swimming pool; a sports complex containing two basketball courts, fully-equipped strength and conditioning gym, and gymnastics hall; an air-conditioned auditorium with a seating capacity for 700 people; and specialist facilities such as a recording studio and rehearsal room. This is in addition to the school’s three ovals; John Noblet Oval (Main Oval), P&F and Miskin Ovals. The College’s most recent sporting prowess has seen six consecutive GPS Tennis Premierships, three consecutive GPS Track and Field Championships and a GPS Cross Country Championship. However, it is the unending spirit of the College’s supporters the green, white and black army - which spurs our athletes to run faster, row harder and aim higher. Their voices and chants of support from the stands, from the banks and from the sidelines ensures the spirit of Brisbane Boys’ College burns bright, long after the final seconds. We thank our member schools for a wonderful centenary of competition, and we look forward to another 100 years of fellowship, rivalry and spirit.
One hundred years of war cries that travel across the fields, outside the pitch, over the fence. One hundred years of waking up in the early hours to train, and of practice well into the night. One hundred years of anticipation the night before the game or the grand performance. One hundred years filled with the smell of freshly cut grass on the cricket pitch, of the taste of zinc on lips. One hundred years of exhausted parents ensuring their children arrive for games and then cheering them on from the side-lines. The centenary is a chance to connect with our past. As we take the time to meet them, we realise our predecessors were not so very different from us. Because being part of the GPS is being a part of something far greater than us. It is a global community that extends far beyond the school gates, and lasts a lifetime. As we remember the fellowship, commitment and service to one another among our member schools in the past, we celebrate those values in our own futures. This year we mark one hundred years of instilling the courage to celebrate both victories and honourable defeats, to play with pride and lose with integrity. We celebrate the creativity and dedication which brings our students together through music. We remember the relentless pursuit of excellence, the extraordinary power of opportunity, the good-natured rivalry and steadfast bonds that have been formed, and we celebrate being one hundred years strong.
Visit www.gps100.org.au to view the spirit of fellowship in action.
BBC NEWS | 19
2018 GPS ACHIEVEMENTS • TENNIS PREMIERSHIP • CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIP • TRACK AND FIELD CHAMPIONSHIP • GPS MUSIC SHOWCASE
2018 Official GPS Results: https://gpsqld.org.au/sport
GAME, SET, MATCH - BBC CROWNED 2018 GPS TENNIS CHAMPIONS FOR THE SIXTH YEAR IN A ROW
The season ended well with our First IV finishing strong to secure a shared Premiership with TSS. This result gives the College their sixth GPS First IV Tennis Premiership in a row, smashing the previous College record of consecutive wins. 2018 Results: • • • •
THREE IN A ROW The 2018 BBC Track and Field Team have made College history, defending their title and being crowned GPS Track and Field Champions for the third consecutive year. Preparation for races, throws and jumps do not just begin at the start line and the dedication of a season of hard work was etched on the faces of all our athletes at this Championship event. Congratulations to the team, coaches, parents and all who wore green, white and black to support our BBC athletes. This was a truly outstanding team effort.
Undefeated teams: Second IV, Third IV, Fourth IV, Fifth IV, 11D, 6A, 6B and 6C teams. Teams that finished first: First IV, Second IV, Third IV, Fourth IV, Fifth IV, 11D, 6A, 6B, 6C. Teams that finished second: 11A, 11C, 10A, 10B, 10C, 9A, 9B, 9D, 8A, 8B, 8D and 5B. Season winning percentage for all 32 BBC teams was 83.6 percent.
Our College Tennis Program enjoyed a stellar year starting with a GPS Premiership followed by First place in the Queensland Secondary Schools Team Championships, also for the sixth consecutive year. The team rounded out the year as Runners-up in the Australian Team Challenge in Albury, NSW. Congratulations to all boys and First coaches Andrew Rolph, Ben Mitchell and Pat Flynn.
“One of our goals this season was to leave no stone unturned, to do everything that could possibly be done. To make sacrifices for the sport we love, the school we love and for our brothers of the College. Seeing boys race for the line, their eyes firmly fixed ahead as they draw on all their willpower and fight their own limitations as their hearts pound, pulses race and blood pumps. That is what I love about GPS. That is why I love athletics.“ - Harry Briggs, Captain of Track and Field. COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
20 | BBC NEWS
2018 GPS ACHIEVEMENTS
LEADING THE COLLEGE IN THE CENTENARY YEAR OF THE GPS “To be leading the College in the centenary year of the GPS is an indescribable feeling. My father and uncle are Old Boys and my two brothers are current BBC students so this place has always been more than just a school to me. It represents a network, which strengthens our ties to the green, white and black, and calls us to don the College crest and participate with honour in the GPS fellowship.
BBC CROWNED 2018 GPS CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONS This year at Limestone Park, BBC took hold of the Jack E. Ross trophy for the first time in College history. Congratulations to our mighty athletes who persevered in the heat to take the honours in fine style. Distance running is an extraordinarily challenging athletic endeavour and the way the Championship is constructed, makes it a true team sport, where every performance counts towards the overall result. BBC competitors were, without exception, outstanding and must be commended on their efforts on the day and in training.
GPS CENTENARY MUSIC SHOWCASE The GPS Music Showcase was a day of music making which culminated in performances by students from all nine GPS schools in choir, symphony orchestra and concert band ensembles. The Showcase featured the hugely popular work, Carmina Burana (selections from Cantiones profanae) by Carl Orff performed by a massed choir of 300 voices and an orchestra of 100 players and two contemporary works, Serenity by Ola Gjielo and Chaos Theory by Jim Bonney performed by the Concert Band. Internationally renowned conductors, Andrew Mogrelia and Dr Peter Morris were invited to work with the GPS 100 ensembles. BBC was well represented with 46 of our students selected to attend this auspicious event. Our students acquitted themselves admirably, making the most of the challenging repertoire and the celebratory atmosphere, forming new friendships amongst their GPS colleagues.
When we run onto the field, when we solve problems in class, when we help our peers and sport our boaters, we represent BBC and celebrate the GPS spirit.” - Jack Gallagher, College Captain “Regardless of the uniform you wear, when you walk out on stage, when you cheer from the sideline, when you prepare for a performance or participate in class, you represent yourself, your family, your school and the wider GPS community. Seeing the passion and pride in the faces of Old Collegians, reminds us what a privilege it is to be Gentlemen of Honour and part of an Association, steeped in sporting tradition and cultural history. This year, the centenary celebrations make the honour of wearing the BBC crest that little bit more special and raising those trophies and perfecting those performances that little bit sweeter, both for our mates and all those who have been before us.” - James Ward, College Co-Vice Captain “Being a part of the GPS network connects you to a much wider community. A community of both old and new, in which memories are shared and forged. As we celebrate 100 years we know the memories of our GPS story will stay with us long after we walk out the College gates, and will be continued by BBC boys and students across Queensland for many years to come. It is an honour to stand beside Old Collegians, past and present brothers, fathers, grandfathers and mates from other schools as we celebrate what it truly means to be part of the 100 years strong GPS community.” - Max Clayton, College Co-Vice Captain.
BBC NEWS | 21
BBC Pipe Band on the World Stage At Brisbane Boys’ College our spirit is our defining difference and our Pipe Band embodies it all. Our College may be located in Australia but our tartan speaks of our origin, the drum line our heartbeat, the bagpipes our voice. In recent years, our College Pipe Band program has experienced significant growth with over 80 boys now learning or playing across three bands. At every significant moment in the life of our school our pipers and drummers are there. The band performs at numerous school events including assemblies, sporting matches, music concerts, competitions, and community events such as ANZAC Day parades and church services. In 2018, members of the BBC Pipe Band enjoyed the honour and privilege of representing the College on the international stage when they performed at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and World Pipe Band Championships in Scotland.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
22 | BBC NEWS
BBC ON THE WORLD STAGE
Scotland Bound This journey to Scotland started in 2016, with an invitation from the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (REMT) organisers to the Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band for participation in their 2018 event. A commitment to performing 25 shows in front of 260,000 spectators, required vision and hard work to ensure quality and depth of skills across the Pipe Band. With the emergence of competitive No.2 and No.3 Bands, alongside the No.1 Band, the boys were ready to embrace the challenge through auditions, lessons, and a lot of practice.
“
The Scotland Tour will be one that will stay with me forever. The feeling when I marched over the drawbridge as part of the massed pipes and drums to perform for sell-out crowds at Edinburgh Castle every night, can never be replicated.” - Stuart Quill HEAD OF ACADEMIC MUSIC AND MASTER IN CHARGE PIPE BAND
In July, a BBC contingent of 50 travelled to Scotland, including boys from the No.1 and No.2 Bands, several members of the BBC Old Collegians’ Pipe Band, Pipe Band staff and academic teachers to be part of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. The boys performed in numerous lead up competitions before participating in the Scottish and World Championships, where they performed exceptionally well, acquitting themselves equally with the best bands in the world. It is difficult to truly put into words the magnitude of the Pipe Band’s tour to Scotland, combining a myriad of competitions, travel, school work and rehearsals into a very demanding schedule. It was an enormous undertaking and an achievement that will be remembered by many for years to come.
When the boys arrived in Edinburgh they went straight into rehearsals for the Tattoo alongside musicians, dancers and performers from all over the world. One week of rehearsals was followed by three weeks of performing - 25 shows over a 21 day period with evening performances Monday to Friday and two performances conducted on Saturdays. The boys were blown away performing with so many talented musicians and dancers on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle. The schedule of academic work in the morning, lunch, down time or independent work in the afternoon, and then evening performances became a steady rhythm for most of the 25 days, shared by boys and staff alike.
2018: The Year That Was
APRIL Australian Pipe Band Championships
MARCH Maclean Highland Gathering The BBC No.1 Band placed First in Juvenile Grade and Second in Grade 4 at the Maclean Highland Gathering held over the Easter weekend.
BBC boys competed at the Australian Pipe Band Championships which were held at BBC for the first time. The No.1 Band placed Second in Grade 4 and Fifth in Juvenile Grade. The No.2 Band placed Sixth in Grade 4 and Seventh in Juvenile Grade. The No.3 Band placed Second in the Display Marches.
ANZAC Day This year members of the Pipe Band marched twice around the Brisbane CBD with a huge amalgamated band of over 50 boys, including the BBC Brass Band. A number of our Senior Pipers also had the chance to perform at dawn services around Brisbane.
BBC NEWS | 23
On the weekends the boys competed in several competitions. The first competition was the Scottish Pipe Band Championships, held in Dumbarton. The No.1 Band came Fourth in Novice Juvenile A and the No.2 Band came Fifth in Novice Juvenile B. The following weekend they competed at the Bridge of Allan Highland Games. The No.1 Band placed Second in Novice Juvenile A and the No.2 Band placed Fourth in Novice B with Drum Major, Hamish Naylor, awarded Fourth place in the Juvenile Drum Major competition. The final competition before the World Pipe Band Championships was at North Berwick Highland Games. The No.1 Band was delighted to win their Grade and the No.2 Band placed Third in Novice Juvenile B. In the Drum Major Competition, Izaak Dove was awarded Second place, with Hamish Naylor awarded Third. The World Pipe Band Championships was held at Glasgow Green on Saturday 18 August with over 214 Pipe Bands performing. The boys were over the moon when our No.1 Band placed Third in Novice Juvenile A and the No.2 Band placed Twelfth in Novice Juvenile B.
MAY Queensland State Pipe Band Championship The band travelled to Ipswich for the Queensland State Pipe Band Championship. The No.1 Band became State Champions in both Juvenile and Grade 4 and the No.2 Band came Third in Juvenile.
While in Scotland many of our pipers also performed at Pipers Live before the entire student and staff cohort, supported two of our drummers, Sebastian Lingane and Cameron Lawson, in a very popular drumming event. Sebastian won best bass drummer for his performance which was somewhat avantgarde, inclusive of his composition of electronica and the MC congratulated BBC on the standard of our drumming program. The boys returned to Brisbane with more silverware than expected, which has been a very nice addition to the trophy collection in the BBC Pipe Band rooms. The outstanding leadership provided to the band by Director, Stevie Stanley and Vaughn Parker, along with the support of our Master in Charge, Stuart Quill ensures the success of our world class school band, which continues to grow in numbers thanks to the dynamic and dedicated team of tutors who enhance the experiences for every single boy in the program. One could never imagine life at BBC without the Pipe Band and it is a pleasure for us all to experience this icon of our great school.
BBC PIPES AND DRUMS TAKE OVER BRISBANE AIRWAVES On Thursday 6 September BBC Pipe Major, Fearghas Russell and Drum Sergeant, Cameron Lawson were interviewed on ABC Brisbane radio where they played a tearjerking rendition of Waltzing Matilda.
Visit the News section of the BBC website for additional coverage of the Pipe Band and to see their performances www.bbc.qld.edu.au/ news/news-from-the-pipe-band-tour
JULY Scotland tour The Scotland Tour included performances at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (REMT), Scottish Pipe Band Championships, Bridge of Allan Highland Games, North Berwick Highland Games, and the World Pipe Band Championships.
Queensland Pops Orchestra The band were delighted to be asked back to perform alongside the Queensland Pops Orchestra in the Best of British concert at QPAC and at the Empire Theatre in Toowoomba. This was a fantastic opportunity to play alongside some of Australia’s most talented musicians.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
24 | BBC NEWS
Team LJ STAND (OB 2017)
BBC Robotics on the world stage COLIN NOY, MIC ROBOTICS
As robotics and computers become more prevalent in our lives, understanding programming and programming concepts is becoming increasingly important. For students in our BBC Robotics program these skills are becoming second nature and an everyday part of their lives. 2018 has been another milestone year for our BBC Robotics Soccer teams, with four teams travelling to Montreal, Canada to represent Australia in the RoboCup Junior World Championships. After winning the Superteam Challenge in 2017, Team LJ STAND added to their success by winning the RoboCup Junior 2018 Individual World Championship. They also won the 2018 Superteam World Championship in the Lightweight Soccer division giving them three World Championship titles. Team FG&B achieved Third in the Individual Championship and won the Superteam Championship in the Open Soccer division. Teams APEX and DEUS VULT both finished in the top half of the competition. With experience behind them, 38 BBC teams entered the RoboCup Junior Queensland Championships prepared to tackle the disciplines of Onstage, Rescue and Soccer. In the Soccer competition the teams gained First place in Open Soccer, First and Second places in the Lightweight Soccer and First place in Standard Soccer. In Rescue, teams placed Third in the Open division, First, Second and Third in the Secondary division (with eight teams in the top 12 positions) and Fourth place in the Primary division. Over the September holidays, 22 teams headed to Melbourne to contest the RoboCup National Championships. The competition was fierce with over 700 competitors involved. Team Apex came Second in the Open Soccer competition in a nail-biting game with a final score of 16 to 18. It was anybody’s game, with a goal scored every 30 seconds. In Lightweight Soccer the final saw two BBC teams play off with Team DEUS VULT defeating Team M&A to take First place. All three Soccer teams have qualified to represent Australia in the World Championships to be held in Sydney in July 2019. The Rescue teams performed well with the highest team placing Sixth in a field of over 100 teams.
Nakul Doshi, Lachlan Grant, James Wallington, Samuel Tudor and James Yelland Team FG&B (OB 2017) Thomas Hulbert, Alistair English, Thomas Fraser, William Plummer, Cooper Richmond Team APEX Joshua Barclay, Riley Bowyer, Robert McArthur and Jason Wang Team DEUS VULT Ethan Lo, Matthew Chen, Taehwan Kim, Henry Hulbert, Daniel Aziz and Matthew Young
Brisbane Boys' College Robotics Club is available to all students from Years 4 to 12 with a focus on developing both interpersonal and fine-motor skills through involvement in the design, construction and programming of robots. All the elements of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) are utilised in the conceptualisation, design, construction and coding of robots for the RoboCup Junior Competition. Given access to the latest componentry, the boys use creativity, ingenuity and imagination to construct autonomous robots to play soccer. The process involves CAD drawing, 3D printing, laser cutting and printed circuit board design. Once constructed, the fun begins as students code the robots to play soccer. From humble beginnings in 2001, the BBC Robotics Club has grown to include over 200 students. The Robotics program is developmental, with a beginner program in Years 4 and 5, followed by competitive robotics as part of the RoboCup Junior Competition. Participants work in groups and use LEGO Mindstorms EV3 kits to design, construct and program robots for Onstage and Rescue competitions. Highly skilled teams are invited to participate in soccer divisions, starting with LEGO before designing custom robots. The club has developed a culture where older, more experienced students assist the younger, less experienced with design, construction and programming as they pass on their knowledge and experience to younger groups. Custom soccer electronics and coding is at a very high level and past club members attending university are employed as trainers to teach the emerging custom teams. With the momentum created by such a strong culture, the future of Brisbane Boys' College Robotics looks bright.
BBC NEWS | 25
PMSA Initiatives Drought Relief Support
PMSA Centenary
To assist PMSA school efforts to support struggling farmers in drought stricken areas, the PMSA was pleased to donate $1,000 to the drought relief efforts of each PMSA school, in support of our many boarding students from drought affected rural areas in Australia. Our four schools have raised thousands of dollars through various activities for Drought Angels, Buy a Bale, Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Appeal and Hayrunner.
Event Support This year three outstanding PMSA boarding schools, BBC, Clayfield College and Somerville House, showcased what Brisbane boarding had to offer at Beef Australia in Rockhampton, the largest beef expo in Australia. Heads of Boarding and school staff from each school were busy at their respective stands, meeting current families, past students and their families, as well as getting to know new families. The PMSA was proud to support the three schools joining together to host a luncheon for current and future families to get to know each other. Headmaster, Paul Brown (BBC) and Principals, Kathy Bishop (Clayfield) and Ness Goodwin (Somerville) joined the festivities for the day.
In 2018, the PMSA commemorates 100 years of providing an outstanding education and guiding young people with values for life. In a new era of education, the PMSA continues to work hard to evolve and change for the future benefit of all four schools Brisbane Boys' College, Clayfield College, Somerville House and Sunshine Coast Grammar School. Established in 1918, the PMSA is a joint mission of the Uniting Church of Australia, Queensland Synod and the Presbyterian Church of Queensland to provide education founded on strong Christian values. Operating each school together with a School Council, the PMSA provides the strategy and framework that fosters excellence in teaching and learning, a caring Christian culture, and governance and policy-making support. One hundred years on, the PMSA is a financially strong, not-for-profit organisation that plays a vital role in setting the direction of these outstanding schools and is the connecting link between the schools and the two churches.
Art Competition
•
Year 12 Careers Conference
•
Student Leadership Initiatives
More than 200 entries from students were submitted in the PMSA Student Art Competition. Held to commemorate the 100 years of the PMSA, this Art Competition was the first of its kind and asked students to interpret one or more of the PMSA values which all of the PMSA schools share - relationships, care, ethics, personal development, excellence and celebration. The competition was judged by PMSA board member and art enthusiast Professor Jennifer Radbourne, PMSA chairman and architect Greg Adsett and past Clayfield College student and teacher, now artist, Liz Heber. The winning art will be on display at each school Art Show and will be proudly displayed in the PMSA Corporate Office.
•
Music Concerts
Congratulations to the BBC winners:
•
ISCF Functions
•
Boarders' Social Nights
Prep - Year 3: Christopher McKay Year 4 - Year 6: Maxwell Cassimatis Year 7 - Year 9: Felix Griffin Year 10 - 12: Harry Shakespeare-Davies
BBC and PMSA
Teacher Education Scholarships The PMSA provides up to four scholarships each year to the value of $2,000 per annum for up to four years of study. The scholarships aim to foster a respect for the importance of teaching as a profession, foster Christian faith and values in schools and encourage future teachers who hold Christian beliefs and values. It also aims to assist aspiring teachers of Christian conviction to complete an approved teacher education program to enable them to make a difference in the schools they serve.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
26 | BBC NEWS
Celebrating a 25 Year Association with Rev Lynton Allan REV GRAHAM COLE, SENIOR CHAPLAIN
In 1994 I learnt of an exceptional communicator who was able to use his artwork to bring life-giving and biblically-based messages to young people. It was that year that we first invited artist, storyteller and Christian Minister, Lynton Allan to come and speak to the boys at BBC, and he has returned every year since. It was immediately evident that Lynton was able to communicate simple and profound truths of the Christian Gospel that were understood and embraced by our students. We are greatly appreciative of the long and fruitful association that we have enjoyed with Rev Allan over the past 25 years. Lynton Allan is an ordained Baptist Minister, married and currently living in Melbourne. For the past 25 years Lynton has engaged in specialised youth work using visual art and storytelling. This involves taking art off the wall and creating artworks quickly in front of people, while also sharing his life and faith through stories. During these years he has travelled throughout Australia engaging with people from all walks of life, in schools, community groups, hospitals, prisons, aboriginal communities, festivals and also the corporate world. There is, however, one place Lynton loves to return to year after year and that is Brisbane Boys’ College. Each year Lynton makes us a priority in his calendar as he really feels part of our extended College community. Over his quarter century association with BBC, Lynton has relieved my position as Senior Chaplain while I was on long service leave in 2000, returning to the College as Acting Associate Chaplain in 2001.
His passion is to inspire, educate and encourage young people to face life’s challenges with faith, hope and the love of Christ. In 2018, Lynton spoke to students of every year level within the College, and his creative and life related presentations of the biblical message were well received and greatly appreciated by the boys at Chapel Services and assemblies. He has also spoken and shared his artwork with staff and parents at the Ministry Support Breakfast. Renowned for his colourful overalls, Lynton’s capacity to weave such a creative and powerful message through his artwork is something that continues to be valued by both students and staff and we look forward to welcoming him back to BBC next year. For further details about his work visit www.lyntonallan.com.
BBC NEWS | 27
PRACTICAL WISDOM
“WISDOM DEPENDS ON EXPERIENCE. EXPERIENCE TAKES TIME. TIME TO KNOW THE PEOPLE YOU ARE SERVING. PERMISSION TO IMPROVISE, OCCASIONALLY FAIL, AND LEARN FROM FAILURE. EXPERIENCE IS ALSO SERVED BY MENTORSHIP OF WISE TEACHERS.” - BARRY SHWARTZ, PSYCHOLOGIST
WORKING WITH BOYS
SEAN RIORDAN, DIRECTOR OF PROFESSIONAL LEARNING DOMINIC PIACUN, HEAD OF DRAMA AND FILM, TELEVISION AND NEW MEDIA
Recently the College partnered with Dr Suzy Green, one of Australia’s foremost experts in utilising wellbeing in an educational context. Dr Green describes Positive Education as "the application of wellbeing science into an educational setting aimed at increasing the resilience, (achievement) and wellbeing of students, staff and whole school communities” (2014). A simple definition for wellbeing might also be, being well and doing good. The concept focuses on looking after one’s emotional and physical state, and contributing to the wellbeing of others and the community. At BBC, we see maintaining and enhancing every student’s wellbeing as central to our role. Our goal is for boys to flourish. In fact, some time ago, we chose to name our practice, and identify what it is that we really seek to do at Brisbane Boys’ College. We decided that it was All about the boy, meaning that all our decisions are focussed on providing opportunities for our boys to grow; spiritually, academically, pastorally, and in their cultural and sporting endeavours. We want to instil in our boys the confidence and capability to contribute; to make a difference to the world they are helping to create.
It might have been Spider-Man, Peter Parker’s uncle that said, “with great power, comes great responsibility”. What greater opportunity and challenge might teachers have than to be charged with the responsibility of nurturing the growth and development of fine young men, such as those at BBC? During the course of 2017, Dominic Piacun, Head of Drama and Film, Television and New Media was engaged in Masters research in the area of Organisational Citizenship. Dom’s research led him to the concept of practical wisdom; the idea that individuals in organisations carry with them extraordinary knowledge, gained through endeavour,
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
28 | BBC NEWS
PRACTICAL WISDOM
“THE OPPORTUNITY TO FILM AND REVIEW MY LESSONS HAS BEEN A GREAT WAY TO REFLECT ON AND IMPROVE MY TEACHING. I’VE ENJOYED DISCUSSING PRACTICE WITH A TEACHER WHO HAS A WILDLY DIFFERENT SET OF CHALLENGES AND APPROACHES TO MY OWN.” - DANIEL JOHNSTON, ENGLISH AND SOSE TEACHER experience and research. Dom asked teachers across the College to identify a moment in their career where they gained wisdom that has made them a better teacher. This wisdom was shared with staff at whole school briefings. The College’s Director of Professional Learning, Sean Riordan, was considering similar concepts when creating professional learning opportunities for teaching staff. A corridor conversation between Dom and Sean, and a few subsequent coffee meetings, resulted in a ‘novel’ idea. Teaching staff at BBC were used to working in small and large groups to develop curriculum and design assessment. They had looked at Pastoral Care practices and utilised the pedagogical framework, Dimensions of Learning. But if BBC was really going to be All about the boy, shouldn’t student wellbeing and learning be at the centre of all our conversations? What if the College drew on the incredible, combined wisdom of every teacher at BBC? What if every teacher shared a strategy that worked with the boys under their care? What if this concept of shared wisdom extended beyond classroom teachers to coaches and non-teaching staff, allowing all staff to share their wisdom? To embrace this concept, Dom and Sean facilitated a professional learning session, held outside of work hours and off-site. With their creative juices flowing, teachers were on fire. By night’s end, the collective wisdom had drawn together enough good ideas to fill a book, literally. Additional staff sessions were facilitated and by the end of the 2017 school year, the College had published, Practical Wisdom: A collection of teaching strategies that work with boys. The publication drew on the work of experts in boys’ education such as Michael Reichert, Richard Frawley and Dr Peter West. In 2018, the publication was revised
and used as a resource by new and returning teachers, and Dom and Sean were invited to present at the International Boys’ Schools Coalition International Conference. Now the ideas of BBC teachers were lighting the fire for boys’ schools around the country, and as far afield as Los Angeles, New York and London. Again, the question was posed; what next? During the course of 2018, Headmaster, Paul Brown, introduced the concept of Partnership Coaching to BBC. The model is based on the work of Instructional Coaching guru, Jim Knight. With the assistance of Professional Learning Institute Consultant, Glenn McLachlan, the College embarked on a pilot program to train eight teachers in the Jim Knight model. This resulted in teachers sharing their wisdom in a research-based model, video recording their own and each other’s lessons, and having rich conversations about their practice. Student wellbeing and learning was planted at the centre of everything we do. Where to next? On the basis of a successful pilot program, the College is designing a broader process to engage additional teachers in this practice. Dom and Sean are also looking to partner with the International Boys’ Schools Coalition (IBSC) to create an Action Research process that combines the key elements of sharing wisdom, instructional coaching, and staff and student wellbeing.
Practical Wisdom: https://issuu.com/collegianmagazine/docs/ practical_wisdom_-_teaching_strategy
BBC NEWS | 29
Engaged in a world of indoor and outdoor learning MARCELO VALENTE RAMOS, OUTDOOR EDUCATION COORDINATOR
The Outdoor Education Program at BBC engages our boys in a world of active outdoor learning experiences that inspire positive relationships integral to the wellbeing of self, community and our natural world. Education is a continuous process which intertwines places and moments of special interest in our students’ lives. BBC’s Outdoor Education program is embedded in the curriculum and engages students from Years 4 to 10, as they venture outside the classroom and experience the outdoors. This year has seen more than 900 students learn about themselves, others and the natural world through an Outdoor Education program which places emphasis on educational outcomes rather than a focus on recreation. The BBC Outdoor Education program is based on six core values: self-discipline, leadership, integrity, resilience, positive relationships and community mindedness. For the College’s Outdoor Education Coordinator, Marcelo Valente Ramos, this holistic approach is specifically designed to fulfil the College’s commitment to educate the whole boy. “As our programs develop, and students build on their skills and learnings each year, we witness growth in student maturity and experience which translates to pedagogical outcomes in and out of the classroom”, he said. “It is heart warming to see boys reflect on their experiences and how they apply their new skills and knowledge at home and at school.” Our program starts in the early years with students experiencing the outdoors and learning the curriculum in an engaging, memorable and meaningful way. In Years 4 to 6 students actively participate in outdoor excursions to places such as the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Alexandra Headland and Tyalgum Ridge. They undertake activities focussed on harnessing confidence and learn to organise their own gear, with our educators constantly linking their outdoor experiences with the classroom curriculum. The Year 7 boys experienced a milestone in their lives with excitement and adventure on their first day of secondary schooling. At this stage, the Outdoor Education program provides a rite of passage,
focusing on the importance of place and relationships. Our boys paddle canoes, hike short distances, carry backpacks, camp out, prepare their own food, learn to tie a tie and experience meaningful initiatives at Camp Somerset. The Year 8s return to the same venue at Camp Somerset to deepen their connection to place and help them to further develop their skills of interdependence. The boys hike, cycle and paddle further, and take ownership for their own growth as they discover that their bodies and minds can handle more than they think they are capable of. The Year 9 boys experience a higher level of self-development through the Outward Bound program Building Capacity. Our boys climb Mount Warning, paddle canoes and cycle on trails around the Upper Tweed Valley in NSW. This program encourages boys to challenge themselves physically and academically, while taking responsibility for their actions. These activities and skills prepare them for their Year 10 Outdoor Education experience. The culminating program for our Year 10 boys is an authentic wilderness journey organised by Outward Bound Experience, where our boys find themselves exploring the challenging landscape of the Upper Clarence River region in an expedition style journey of bushwalking, paddling and navigating between campsites. They engage in groupled activities which enabled them to develop skills like resilience and problem solving that are integral in day to day life as adults. “Throughout our Outdoor Education Program boys are nurtured to begin an individual and collective journey, which will help them to leave the College and step out as young adults,” Marcelo said. “Our program allows students to expand their comfort zones, prepare and redefine personal possibilities, gain confidence, demonstrate compassion and develop a spirit of camaraderie with their peers, which will serve them well in their adult life. Outdoor Education is the cornerstone for our holistic education as we strive to educate our boys to be better men.”
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
30 | BBC NEWS
“SOME LIFE LESSONS MY SON LEARNT ON YEAR 10 OUTDOOR EDUCATION: LIFE DOES NOT ALWAYS GO TO PLAN No one wanted torrential rain for the first few days of camp but it happened and my son and his friends had to quickly learn to adapt to these conditions. Even with the meticulous planning that went into preparing his camp bag with all items safely locked in dry bags 'things still got wet'. By night number two he was wet and homesick but he knew he had three nights to go so had to change his mindset to make sure the next few days were great, not only for himself, but his entire group.
EVERYONE IS GOOD AT SOMETHING AND IF YOU ALL WORK TOWARDS EACH OTHER’S STRENGTHS ANYTHING CAN BE ACHIEVE. My son is a strong boy, so his job was to help carry extra items and to lead the way, cutting paths and pulling people and bags up rock faces. His role was just as valuable as the two boys that were 'wizards on the wok' as they cooked dinner every night for their group. At the end of a hard day the boys were so thankful for this meal. Some boys were great at putting up tents and others making fires. Everyone had something valuable to contribute.
OUTDOOR EDUCATION BREAKS DOWN THE STEREOTYPES OFTEN ASSIGNED AT SCHOOL. Each group had the cool kids, the sporty kids, the smart kids, the loners and the lost. None of this matters on camp as you are all the same. You are all part of one big group and together you need to help each other through. It gives boys the opportunity to talk to boys they may know very little about or to reconnect with an old friend when the friendship has drifted. My favourite camp question is what did you learn about a boy
you hardly knew? In response to this question my son mentioned how inspired he was by a new boy who has recently moved to Brisbane with his mum, who works two jobs just to put him through BBC. With all of the distractions of school these conversations would more than likely never happen. I believe camp clears their heads and opens their hearts and minds to see the good in people again and to truly walk in someone else's shoes.
CAMPS MAKES TEACHERS 'MORE HUMAN' AND ALLOWS THEM TO HAVE FUN WITH THE BOYS.
‘Being a man is to take responsibility for your actions and have an awareness of people and things outside of yourself. - Year 10 student
The boys get to see their teachers in a different light and therefore develop stronger relationships with those teachers. The teachers also get to see boys outside of the classroom and it probably gives them more of an insight into why a boy might behave or act the way he does.
THE BOYS LEARN THE ART OF GENUINE APPRECIATION. Today's world is so filled with instant gratification. I believe by removing the boys from this world for the week they come home with a greater appreciation of what they have or even what they truly need. It was so heart-warming to see after the initial "I need a shower and some food" my son wanted to go and watch his little brother at the Track and Field meet at UQ. To see 'big brother' putting his arms around his 'little brother' with a genuine I missed you was so lovely to see. He appreciated a hot shower that night, his warm, dry family home, his family including pets, his comfortable bed and food. He truly did miss us and we missed him. Camp teaches you that life is not always easy. Sometimes you have good days and sometimes bad days. However, when you dig deep and back yourself, and others you get through it together. So thank you again for helping teach my son, and all the Year 10s, some life lessons outside of the four walls of their classroom.”
- YEAR 10 BBC MUM
Rights of passage are challenging not because once you achieve it, you’re set, but because once you achieve it, that is how you are to perform from now on’ - Year 10 student
“I don’t do a lot at home, I did on camp and now I want to help more at home and take responsibilities for my actions” - Year 9 student
BBC NEWS | 31
CHANGING LIVES ONE COFFEE AT A TIME AT BBC WE KNOW THAT THE HUMBLE COFFEE BEAN HAS THE POWER TO BUILD A SCHOOL, EDUCATE A CHILD AND SUPPORT A COMMUNITY. THROUGH THE COFFEE FOR CAMBODIA INITIATIVE OUR BOYS HAVE SEEN FIRSTHAND HOW A CUP OF COFFEE CAN CHANGE LIVES BY ENSURING THAT CAMBODIAN CHILDREN HAVE ACCESS TO QUALITY EDUCATION AND INEVITABLY A BRIGHTER FUTURE.
The College’s involvement with Coffee for Cambodia began in 2011, and like the barista skills of our students, the outcomes of the program continue to grow from strength to strength. The Stepping Stones School is situated in Kok Thnort, a village near Siem Reap, Cambodia. It was established in January 2011 to provide free English education to children in the village. This was the dream of Sok So, the founder and owner of the land on which the school is built. Four Brisbane Boys’ College teachers travelled to Cambodia in January 2012 to participate in a teacher training course run by the Brisbane based charity, Harvest Cambodia. Since September 2011, BBC teachers, corporate staff and students have served coffee to raise funds for the ongoing costs of running the school. Over the years the BBC community has raised more than $100,000, which has been invested into the community through ongoing sponsorship ($2,500 per term), building projects and one off purchases such as photocopiers and water tanks. In January 2012, two indigenous students, Koby Frazer (OB 2014) and Marley Ahmat (OB 2014) became BBC’s first student baristas. Coffee for Cambodia was established with the help of Scott Wilson (OB 2002) and Ben Graham from The Single Guys coffee shop at Kenmore who provided training and expertise for student baristas. Scott and Ben sold the business but continue to support this College initiative by supplying coffee beans through their roastery, Parallel Roasters. The next logical step was to take a group of boys to the community to see firsthand
where the money they were raising was going. In July 2014, the first BBC tour to Cambodia took place. It was left to the local community to best decide how the tour party could help and it was decided that our students would assist in building two houses for the poorest of the poor in the community. In December 2015 and 2017, further successful tours were held, each visit further cementing the positive relationship that BBC has with the Kok Thnort community. Our tour has been approved for 2019. Over this seven year period, so much progress has been made. The school is now the focus of the community. From a community where only one person had ever been to University, there are now many graduates and others studying. Many former Stepping Stones students have sufficient English to work in the extensive tourist industry in Siem Reap and the nearby Angkor temples. Clean water is available in the school and may be accessed by many villagers, assisting to safeguard the health of students and families in the community. Coffee for Cambodia is fortunate to have the support of the extended BBC community which contributes to the sustainability of the charity. Regular support coming from the BBC Tuckshop in addition to the IT Department who have donated computers. Coffee continues to be served by our student baristas three mornings a week as well as at rugby, football, music and theatre productions, art shows, Parent Teacher Evenings and other staff and House functions. This is a BBC partnership that will continue to be made one coffee at a time.
COFFEE FOR CAMBODIA BY NUMBERS 2011-2018
OVER $100,000 RAISED 5 COMMUNITY TRIPS 3 STUDENT/2 STAFF 95 STUDENTS INVOLVED
6 HOUSES BUILT
20 STAFF INVOLVED 50 BBC COMPUTERS DONATED 720 KILOGRAMS OF COFFEE CONSUMED 1900 TINS OF HOT CHOCOLATE CONSUMED
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
32 | BBC NEWS
FUNDRAISING INITIATIVES AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT OUR 2018 FUNDRAISING EFFORTS ARE A TRIBUTE TO THE GENEROSITY OF OUR STUDENTS, PARENTS, OLD COLLEGIANS AND FRIENDS OF THE COLLEGE, AND ARE A TESTAMENT TO WHAT CAN BE ACHIEVED WITH COLLECTIVE EFFORT AND GOODWILL. THREE MAJOR FUNDRAISING EVENTS TOOK PLACE ACROSS THE YEAR AND INCLUDED:
GPS Spirit of Fellowship Fundraising
Pink Sock Day The opening games of the GPS Rugby and Basketball season against Gregory Terrace saw all BBC teams run out in pink socks, supporting the McGrath Foundation’s Breast Cancer Awareness initiative. In total, close to 400 pairs of pink socks and 160 specially designed Rugby supporter’s caps were sold. A Parent Connections Bake Sale also added to the community spirit on the day. A total of $10,000 was donated to the McGrath Foundation.
Solidarity claimed a resounding win over the fierce rivalry normally associated with Brisbane’s GPS Rugby community. Brisbane Boys’ College organisers led the Spirit of Fellowship Fundraising Drive. At the end of the season it was announced that a donation of more than $65,000 would go to assist families within the GPS Rugby community whose sons had suffered serious spinal injuries over the course of the season. At the draw, BBC Rugby Support Group President, Ben Beard, said funds had been raised through a range of activities that united all members of the GPS Rugby community. “The BBC community was incredibly moved by the plight of these young players and swiftly galvanised to rally around them and their families,” Ben said. On Friday 21 September, Queensland Reds and Churchie Old Boy, Angus Scott-Young, drew the lucky winners of the Spirit of Fellowship Raffle, after it quickly sold out, raising $50,000. Generous BBC Old Collegians and businesses including Sci-Fleet Toyota, Stones Diamond Specialists and ASICS underwrote the raffle prize pool, ensuring every dollar from tickets sold went directly to the cause. A further $15,103 was raised through other initiatives including a bake sale, a Year 12 led crazy sock day and the sale of a limited edition GPS 100 cap, which was also sold by a number of GPS schools.
Drought Relief Support On behalf of the BBC Community, a donation of $4,500 was presented to the Buy a Bale Appeal in support of Australian farmers in drought affected areas. Funds raised through the appeal will be used to alleviate financial pressures and support the health and wellbeing of severely drought-affected farmers, farming families and farming communities. Financial support will also be made available to meet everyday household expenses, as well as enabling access to social, health and educational activities. With so many of our boarding families residing in rural areas and doing it tough under the harsh Australia conditions this was a cause close to the heart of our community. College-wide fundraising initiatives including the Boarding House Fundraising Dinner, Junior and Middle Schools and Basketball Support Group bake sales, Old Boys’ Day fundraising, Grand Concert and PMSA donations all raised much needed funds for this worthy cause. This capped off an incredible community fundraising effort across Term 3.
BBC NEWS | 33
Life Learning Abroad ADAM WOOD, ANTIPODEANS EXPEDITION COORDINATOR
More than an overseas stint, an Antipodeans School Expedition empowers students to take ownership, learn vital life skills and develop a better understanding of themselves, the world and their place in it. As an important part of the College’s Service Program, BBC students have enjoyed the experience and challenge of overseas Antipodeans Expeditions and community projects since 1999. The Antipodeans Expedition program focuses on student mindfulness, resilience and leadership. It intertwines the experiential learning elements of student development with group dynamics, teamwork, perseverance and problem solving. The backbone to each expedition is a hands on community project where students work to improve the infrastructure of a remote community and interact with locals who directly benefit from their service. In 1999, a small group of BBC students were part of the inaugural Queensland-based Antipodeans School Expedition to Nepal. Fast forward to 2007, and a reinvigorated program saw a second contingent of 12 BBC students and two staff travel to Southern China and Northern Vietnam to conduct a community-based building project. Following the success of this expedition the program continued in 2010 with a team of students and staff returning to Vietnam, this time adding a fundraising element to assist their completion of a community kindergarten project. With each successful expedition, a culture of service was nurtured within our College community; a culture that has only continued to grow through the numerous rewarding service and faith-based opportunities available to students and staff. Physical Education and Mathematics teacher, Bryan Belcher fondly remembers his involvement in the 2012 Nepal Expedition. When asked
how students responded to the experience Bryan replied, “Seeing how willing the locals were to get by with the little they had helped our boys to recognise how blessed they were back home and appreciate all they had access to. The locals were so appreciative of the assistance offered by the boys which encouraged them to go the extra mile on the project as they saw the positive impact they were making first hand.” Students who embark on the expeditions are aged between 15 and 17 and most have been afforded good fortune when dealing with the realities of life. This is in stark contrast to the lives of the locals they interact with during community projects and, while at times confronting, this experience provides our boys with a perspective not experienced inside the school gates. On the 2012 expedition, 24 students arrived at a Tibetan Refugee Camp on the outskirts of Pokhara, Nepal. Their first view was of a very large poster with photos of young adults who had felt compelled to express their resistance to the Chinese occupation of their homeland through self-immolation. There were almost 100 photos on this sign. This confronting sight prompted much reflection and questioning by our boys. Wesley Middle School Housemaster, Rowena Gilroy, served on the Antipodeans Expedition to Vietnam in 2014. When asked about her experience she replied, “the Community Project is always a highlight
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
34 | BBC NEWS
LIFE LEARNING ABROAD
SERVING STUDENTS IN THE COMMUNITY
of the expedition for the boys. Students commonly live within the community that they have been tirelessly raising funds for and can immerse themselves in the experience”. Student fundraising is a key element of the Antipodeans experience and is necessary to acquire the tools and materials for the works that the community has requested. Over the years, projects have included constructing drainage pits to address localised flooding, building toilet blocks and constructing classrooms for disadvantaged students. “Boys proudly make both a financial and physical contribution to the chosen project where work starts early and can be physically demanding, particularly if struggling with jet lag or an unfamiliar diet, however the boys always find time to play with the local children at the end of the day,” Rowena said. Reflecting upon his Vietnam expedition in 2014, Kieran Hogan commented that “the students’ resolve was strengthened as they fully appreciate the positive contribution they have made to the White Thai community”. An Antipodeans Expedition provides students with a unique experience to learn and put their learning to use. Each student is responsible for fundraising and each group is assigned a budget to meet all the needs of the group, which must be appropriately managed to cover accommodation, tours and food. Mathematics teacher, Shane Barr,
who participated in the 2016 India Expedition commented that, “cross-disciplinary skills were required by the students to wrestle with cost of living considerations, the conversion of Australian or other foreign currency to local money, whilst considering the historical and political past that has resulted in the present socio-economic position of locals”. This December, an expedition team of 43 students and six staff departed for Tanzania on the east coast of Africa, where they will trek Africa’s fifth highest mountain, Mount Meru, and travel to World Heritage listed National Parks before participating in a community building project. Looking forward to his first staff expedition is Dan Johnston expressed that he is looking forward to seeing a side of the world that other people don’t often experience. However he is most looking forward to seeing how the boys adapt and engage with the new challenges they will face, and people they will meet in Tanzania. Planning for BBC’s eighth overseas Antipodeans Expedition and community project is underway with a trip to Ecuador in the sights of students and staff. All boys who participate in Antipodeans Expeditions gain personal and world insights, that can only be gained through complete immersion, and which endures long after their planes touch down back on Australian soil.
Five BBC Seniors have been instrumental in delivering a tailored tennis program to students at the Mount Ommaney Special School. This month-long initiative saw our BBC boys work closely with students of various abilities as part of the Tennis Australia Inclusion Plan, focused on providing opportunities for all students to learn the game. In preparation for the program Matthew Willans, Cooper Scifleet, Mitchell Harrison, Luke Jones and Bryce Collins participated in a Tennis Queensland workshop and were addressed by Dr Michael Fanshawe regarding the various challenges faced by students at the Mt Ommaney Special School. The program focuses on active participation and provides meaningful opportunities for students from both schools, demonstrating that tennis is more than just a sport. Visit the news section of the BBC website to view a video of our boys and the program in action at the Mount Ommaney Special School.
http://www.bbc.qld.edu.au/news/ bbc-in-the-community
BBC NEWS | 35
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Young Learners Thrive DR LEIGH HOBART, DEPUTY HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL (TEACHING AND LEARNING)
BBC continues to be a school of choice for educating young gentlemen. This decision is cemented early in our Junior School program with our boys achieving outstanding academic results and enjoying excellent co-curricular offerings, all within an environment that is ideal for boys. Our focus continued in 2018 as we value and honour our heritage and traditions and hone existing Junior School programs, whilst also embracing the future and using evidence-based practice to continuously improve and innovate our curriculum and pedagogical approach. Our boys are learning within the context of a new century and millennium, developing skills to prepare them for unknown futures. This is an exciting time in humankind’s history and it is essential that we prepare our young men to embrace the opportunities this offers. Research evidences that personal and social skills, critical and creative thinking, collaboration and teamwork, and the ability to effectively use information and communication technology are critical to future success. These are attributes that we carefully craft within sequenced learning opportunities throughout the Junior School. We have developed a planning framework that challenges us to model the attributes we aspire for our students. We explicitly teach foundational skills to provide building blocks of literacy and numeracy in a consistent and structured way. We start by linking our assessment with the Australian Curriculum and create interdisciplinary learning intentionally planned to model creative and critical thought following a structure of - inspire, think, explore, share and reflect. Implementation is responsive to the different journeys of students.
Learning happens in the classroom and well beyond. To keep our boys focussed and engaged, learning is active. It is holistic - aiming to encourage engagement of the heart and mind. We maximise our time with the boys by using an interdisciplinary approach - embracing the richness of each discipline, while incorporating this learning in a way that deepens inquiry and understanding of the world around them. We are committed to ensuring learning experiences are authentic and responsive to the world of our boys, encouraging them to push the boundaries of their own learning. Why do we take this approach in the BBC Junior School? Because we want the best possible education for every boy in our care. We want to challenge and empower each boy to go forth with the confidence and capability to change the world, knowing each of their journeys is unique.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
36 | BBC NEWS
READ, WRITE, INC Prep to Year 2 classrooms have implemented the widely acclaimed Reading and Writing program - Read Write Inc. The focus of this program is for students to develop phonics through developing automaticity of their ‘Super Speedy Sounds’. These sounds are then used directly in their reading and writing, ensuring they are not guessing words or using strategies that have not been explicitly taught. 'Fred the Frog' is a central character of the program and the boys use ‘Fred talk’ to phonetically read unfamiliar words, and ‘Fred in your head’ to spell using the sounds they have learned. The results from this program have been outstanding and importantly the boys simply love this structured approach. One of our Preppies was quite concerned one day when he couldn’t come to school because he might miss his Read Write Inc lesson. It is wonderful to see the boys so engaged in the program and so proud of their learning success.
PASSION PROJECTS Is there something you love doing so much it never feels like work, even if it absorbs hours of your time? When something fascinates you, excites you and engages you, you want to learn more about it. This was the underlying philosophy of our Year 6 Passion Projects. This year our boys were encouraged to engage individually with something deeply meaningful to them, with the expectation that they would love learning more about it and achieve something truly remarkable. Each boy worked for the best part of two terms with an adult mentor, who guided and encouraged him, before showcasing his learnings at a special event for parents and BBC students. The range of passionate pursuits on display were remarkable, and included projects such as filmmaking, writing a book, renovating a snowboard, growing vegetables in a self-made greenhouse, directing a plasticine or LEGO stop-motion movie, building a computer, writing and recording a song, creating a YouTube channel on Egypt, making a guitar, publishing a photographic history of Brisbane bridges, constructing a billycart and furniture making. The projects were so innovative and our Year 6 boys have inspired us to see what is possible when we follow our passions and interests.
UNDER 8s DAY
WRITERS’ WORKSHOP Our 'best and brightest' Years 5 and 6 authors embraced the opportunity to participate in the inaugural BBC Writers’ Workshop facilitated by children’s author, Brian Falkner. The week long workshop provided an opportunity for our young writers to learn strategies to improve their storytelling and perfect some tricks of the trade. The experience of working with Brian, his engaging manner and wise advice, inspired our budding authors to create works of fiction which were collected in an anthology, published and presented to the boys at a special ceremony. Other students also assisted with this fantastic opportunity - Year 9 boys were fabulous mentors for our writers, and our Junior School film-makers captured the event with a documentary that was presented at our showcase evening.
The importance of the early years cannot be underestimated. It is the foundation and is increasingly recognised for its impact on lifelong learning. This year we celebrated the growth and learning of our youngest Collegians at Under 8s Day, an initiative of the Queensland Branch of Early Childhood Australia. The theme ‘exploring language and culture’ provided a framework for our Prep to Year 2 boys to travel around the world and enjoy a morning of kite making, landmark painting, friendship band creation, shared drawing, traditional mask making, ice digging and a special visit from members of the Emergency Service teams as they stamped their special passport. It was a sensational day to recognise the most critical years of education.
BBC NEWS | 37
WHEN WORKSHOP SKILLS AND SCIENCE COLLIDE PAUL SETCH, WESLEY SENIOR HOUSEMASTER
For their Term 2 project, our Year 9 Design and Technology students were challenged to design and build a toy for the younger students of the College. The brief was simple; meet and work collaboratively with a Year 2 student to understand their needs and wants as a stakeholder in the design process, then with this knowledge, design a toy that could be pushed or pulled to assist our Junior School learners to better understand key elements of the 'Forces' science unit. What unfolded was a design collaboration that challenged our Middle School Design and Technology students and inspired our Junior School boys. Through discussions with Junior School stakeholders, concepts were created and the application of synthesis and evaluation processes saw initial ideas evolve into final designs. Within the workshop setting, the toys progressed through the construction phase. The Year 9 and Year 2 stakeholders met to see and evaluate the progress and make the necessary changes to the shape, form and functions of each toy. This collaborative approach allowed for a superb interaction between the two groups which saw our Junior School boys in awe of the wooden creations taking shape in front of their eyes. An indirect outcome of the design process was project management. Our Year 9 students had to achieve milestones of development before meeting back with the Year 2 stakeholders. The realisation that workshop
lessons would not provide adequate time to complete a task of this magnitude meant that many boys took advantage of workshop sessions before school to fine tune the design and construction of their toy. The final gathering of the Year 2 stakeholders and their Year 9 buddies took place in the Junior School Hobby House and saw our Year 9s assist their Year 2 buddies complete the finishing touches to assemble their project. Many of the older boys took the opportunity to assist and instruct their young stakeholders in the use of cordless drill drivers to add wheels and doors to their creations. What a fabulous Junior and Middle School learning opportunity for all involved.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
38 | BBC NEWS
AT BBC, WE BELIEVE THAT WHILE KNOWLEDGEBASED LEARNING IS IMPORTANT, IT IS NO LONGER ENOUGH. WE NEED TO TEACH OUR STUDENTS HOW TO BE CRITICAL THINKERS. NOT ONLY TO SOLVE PROBLEMS BUT TO RECOGNISE THEM IN THE FIRST PLACE. WE WANT OUR STUDENTS TO BE CURIOUS AND CREATIVE; TO ACQUIRE SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING, EACH AND EVERY DAY, SO THAT THEY CAN MOVE CONFIDENTLY INTO THE WORLD AND MAKE A POSITIVE CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIETY IN WHATEVER FIELD THEY CHOOSE.
HONOURABLE MENTION
The International Mathematical Modeling Challenge (IM2C) saw our boys visualise, understand and apply mathematics in order to develop an original mathematical model that solves a common problem and helps with everyday decision making. Congratulations to Year 11 students James English, Xavier Catford, Ometh Rajapakse and Ethan Waugh who received an honourable mention for their real-world application of learning in the 2018 Challenge.
OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT BARRY DEAN, HEAD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING The College engages annually with the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) assessment program as a means of establishing external data on all our students, which serves as a comparison to the internal assessment data, derived from school-based assessment. ICAS is an independent, skills-based assessment program which recognises and rewards student achievement. It is unique, being the most comprehensive generally available suite of academic assessments for primary and secondary school students, covering English, Science, Mathematics, Spelling and Writing elements. Students with the top score in each subject, in each year level, are awarded a medal and a medal winner’s certificate. This year, over 980,000 entries were received with only 514 students from Australia and 100 students from New Zealand and the Pacific Region were awarded medals for their outstanding achievement. This year, the College is proud to announce that three BBC students have been awarded ICAS Medals. Maximilian Windsor (Year 12), awarded a medal for Science; James English (Year 11), awarded a medal for Mathematics and Logan O’Brien (Year 7), awarded a medal for Spelling. Congratulations to all three students on their significant achievement.
UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND YOUNG SCHOLARS PROGRAM
Two Year 11 students have been accepted into the University of Queensland's 2018-2019 Young Scholars Program (UQ YSP). Designed to nurture and develop future leaders, the program presents students with an opportunity for academic extension and enrichment and is centred around igniting young change-makers’ passions for leadership, academic achievement and community development in today’s global society. Congratulations to Arlou van der Westhuizen and Lachlan MacMillan who will participate in a five-day residential camp at the St Lucia campus. This on-campus experience challenges young scholars to think critically about some of today’s major global issues and exposes them to a wide range of potential study areas and career opportunities as they hear from leading thinkers and participate in collaborative forums. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership achievements and/or significant contribution to their school or community. Congratulations to Arlou and Lachlan on being selected as UQ YSP scholars. Information on the program can be found at www.young-scholars.uq.edu.au/
BBC NEWS | 39
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR WINS BIG AT THE GEN[IN] STUDENT INNOVATION CHALLENGE Congratulations to Flynn Brien (Year 11) who took top prize in the Profit Entrepreneur category in the Gen[in] Student Innovation Challenge for his innovative cricket training kit that helps young aspirational cricketers build their skills. Category winners were awarded cash prizes to further develop their concepts and help kick-start their business ideas. In its first year, the Gen[in] Student Innovation Challenge received over 300 expressions of interest from students across Queensland and 150 global minded local students registered for the program. Following three days of unique experiences including tours of Brisbane’s leading innovation spaces, collaborative key issue focus groups, and opportunities to meet industry, government and education mentors, the finalists showcased their innovations at a final pitch event. The Gen[in] Student Innovation Project aims to build the entrepreneurial mindset and skills of international and globally-minded young people across Queensland, and is co-funded with the support of the Queensland Government’s International Education and Training Partnership Fund, managed by the International Education and Training Unit (IETU) within Study Queensland.
COMMUNITY SERVICE OPENS DOORS TO EARLY UNI ENTRY
Congratulations to Carter Heading (OB 2018) who, in recognition of his exemplary community service, has received an early offer to study at the Australian Catholic University as part of their Community Achiever Program. The program is designed to acknowledge commitment to our local communities and recipients are offered opportunities to enhance their leadership and volunteering skills throughout their studies. Carter was a BBC Prefect and has been involved with coaching and mentoring younger students, ISCF, Music and co-curricular sports such as Cross Country, Football and Volleyball. We wish Carter well as he investigates studying a Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Paramedicine at ACU.
CUTTING EDGE RESEARCH
The Year 12 Biology Research Symposium is one of the College’s premier STEM activities and the culmination of an intense six month Student - Scientist Research Partnership Program. Keynote speaker, Professor Justin Marshall, Chief Scientific Advisor for Sir David Attenborough on his recent documentary series about the Great Barrier Reef, was on hand to kick off proceedings before our Senior Biology students presented Ted Talk style presentations, to deliver their research findings and facilitate discussions. Topics included:
SECONDARY SCHOOLS CITIZENSHIP AWARD
Congratulations to James Ward (OB 2018) who was a recipient of the Secondary Schools Citizenship Award received from The Order of Australia Association, Queensland Branch. This award recognises students for their community service and honours the ideals of good citizenship. James’ contribution, and those of the other 2018 recipients, reminds us all of the significant level of volunteering undertaken by young Australians. The awards presentation occurred at a ceremony at Parliament House.
• Use of saliva swabs to detect head and neck cancers - QUT, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Nick Buntain and Harry Briggs • Neurotransmitters concerned with brain injury during childbirth - UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Oliver Quinn and Lachlan Byrne • The use of spider venom extracts for pain management - UQ Centre for Pain Research, Sudeep Elangovan, Zain Langah and John Brouwers • The use of virtual reality as an educational tool to raise awareness of coral bleaching - UQ Brain Institute, Declan Morgan and Jonathan Hawkins • Indigenous Australian plant extracts as effective alternatives to antibiotics - QUT, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Riley McDonald-Smith • The use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as a diagnostic mechanism - UQ Centre for Advanced Imaging, Max Kirsch and Jack Brewitt • The Phenomenon of Cognitive Dissonance - UQ School of Psychology, Karam Khoury, Cooper Scifleet and Max Clayton • Sports injury and motor vehicle accident presentations to the emergency department - PA Hospital Trauma Research Centre, Angus Caulton and Lachlan Trew • An investigation into the efficacy of prospective drugs on cancer cells - UQ Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Robert McArthur and Nicholas Fairlie
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
40 | BBC NEWS
BIG PLANS AND BRIGHT FUTURES BBC Seniors welcomed students from Clayfield College to their 2018 Careers Conference. This annual BBC event provides an opportunity for Year 12 students to explore a wide range of career opportunities and to hear from a number of professionals, including past students, about the highs and lows of a range of jobs, industries and professions. Students attended workshop sessions throughout the day covering Medicine and Allied Health, STEM, Law, Creative Industries and Design, Engineering, Music, Arts, Business, Education, Entrepreneurship, Real Estate and Property, Marketing/PR, Finance, Fashion, and Vocational Pathways. The event concluded with a Careers Fair, which saw students engage with a large contingent of industry and tertiary providers to discuss their pathway options and future careers. Thank you to past students and parents who offered their insights and support to our Senior cohorts.
BBC NEWS | 41
Boys are tribal. From the bush to the city, and everywhere in between. Since 1909, young men from all corners of the globe have enjoyed the camaraderie that boarding at Brisbane Boys’ College affords, building lifelong friendships as they immerse themselves in the academic, sporting, co-curricular, service and cultural offerings of our city school. For Director of Boarding, Matthew McEwen (OB 1988), the unique size of the BBC Boarding House enables staff to forge authentic relationships with each boy. “Our ability to care for and educate a boy depends on our ability to connect with him, and to provide individual academic and personal support as an extension of the home.” Based on the MindMatters Framework, the development of the 2018 Social and Emotional Wellbeing Program has provided a framework for BBC Boarding staff to structure, guide and support boarders to build mental health strategies, while improving relationships and resilience. The program sees BBC work from a strengths-based model to promote emotionally intelligent, empathic boarders to nurture appropriate relationships, learn appropriate decision-making, problem-solving, respect, empathy, responsible behaviour and social and emotional competencies that will prepare them for life beyond the Boarding House. This year, BBC was been nominated for the Australian Boarding School’s Association (ABSA) 2018 Most Innovative Idea in a Boarding School Award for their Social and Emotional Wellbeing for Boarders Program.
The BBC Social and Emotional Wellbeing Program includes: • • •
• •
Themed dinners and community fundraising initiatives to help create a sense of belonging and connection among the boarding community. A Big Brother Program Drumbeat behavioural program incorporating African djembe drums and Spartan Training to encourage communication, break down barriers to meaningful discussion and to encourage positive interactions between boarders. The establishment of student leadership groups and committees to facilitate and voice concerns of boarders on topics including recreation activities, food and IT. A guest speaker program which invites key community figures to engage with boarders on the importance of making a positive contribution to society through their actions. 2018 guest speakers included Mr Damian Mednis (ex-strength and conditioning trainer for the Australian Cricket team) who provided straight forward advice and many eye opening and thought provoking stories from his travel and work with state, national and international sporting teams. His Losing to Learn presentation gave boys tools to learn through adversity as well as the knowledge that nothing beats hard work and commitment. Other guest speakers included Constable Paul Bagnall from the Indooroopilly Police Station, Olympic Swimmer, Dan Smith and the Federal Member for Ryan, Ms Jane Prentice (past parent) who spoke about politics, her career, and how our boys can make a difference in society. Ms Prentice also gave our future Boarding House leaders some timely advice, finishing with a quote from Leigh Matthews (former Brisbane Lions Coach) - “It is better to have a champion team working for you than a team of champions who only work for themselves."
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
42 | BBC NEWS
BBC NEWS | 43
WE WATCHED YOU GROW AND DEVELOP FROM CHILD TO MAN
As we bid adieu to the Class of 2018, it is a time of both excitement and sadness as we reflect on their years at the College and look forward to all they will achieve today, tomorrow and long into their futures. The final few weeks at BBC provide unlimited opportunities to acknowledge all that these young men are, all that they have achieved and all they will become, while empowering our Seniors to give thanks and embrace this special milestone. It is a chance for our students to reflect on their time at BBC and be grateful for the mates, staff and parents who have supported them along the way. A few short years spent making memories as a BBC student, quickly turn into a lifetime remembering them as an Old Collegian. Irrespective of how short or how long a student has been at the College, they will always be an Old Collegian and part of the green, white and black brotherhood. VIDEO: WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=DU3K4XAZKCW
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
44 | BBC ARTS
BBC ARTS
45 Energetic and engaging Junior School Expressive Arts Program and our Wakakirri story
48 Music short reads Student achievements in music
50 College art show Stop, collaborate and listen to a thoughtful and imaginative exhibition of student creations
47
Season tickets
Students take to the stage in BBC Theatre productions of Hamlet and Regicide
BBC ARTS | 45
ENERGETIC and
ENGAGING
Established in 1992, Wakakirri is Australia’s largest school Performing Arts event. Each year schools across Australia create 'Story Dances' that are performed in front of the Wakakirri panel who are searching for the ‘Story of the Year’. Each student performance uses a combination of dance, acting, creative movement, music, props, costumes and sets to tell a story that reflects students' thoughts, ideas and aspirations. Performing in Wakakirri is an experience students never forget.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
46 | BBC ARTS
“
. W O N S I E y. t R i U n a T m U u THE F gy has exceeded our h kills s Technolo e h t e s o l g to n i t r a t s e w Are
that truly make us
HUMAN?"
ENERGETIC AND ENGAGING Our BBC Wakakirri story started at the beginning of the year with over 90 Junior School boys rehearsing weekly, including during the holidays. The dedication and commitment shown by both our students and staff has been exemplary and a true celebration of our seven month journey. Our Junior School Wakakirri performers received the following awards and the honour of appearing in the Queensland State Finals in September:
PERFORMANCE AWARDS • • • • • • •
Excellent artwork on sets Excellent overall costume design Well-rehearsed performance Excellent group dance (choreography) Amazing visual effects Spirit of Wakakirri Best individual costume
STATE AWARDS • • • •
Best science fiction story Best t-shirt design award Best individual costume Opportunity to perform at the Awards Night
EXPRESSIVE ARTS
Performing Arts is a profound and important part of any child’s education. The skills learned and experience gained through participation in dance and drama impact and improve a student’s ability within many contexts. BBC Junior School extends a boy’s love and passion for the Expressive Arts by offering after school workshops all year round. These workshops are run by Shaun Thompson in collaboration with industry professionals. The boys are then given the opportunity to showcase their skills at various performances throughout the year. In addition to the Wakakirri program, which focuses on dance and drama, the Expressive Arts banner also runs Film and Animation workshops. These workshops focus on getting young minds excited about learning the technical skills for making and producing movies.
BBC ARTS | 47
Season Tickets CATHERINE HEFFERNAN, MIC THEATRE
Both 2018 BBC Theatre productions, Hamlet and Regicide, have taken students from the modern to the medieval in a continual examination of the ways in which everything old is new again. From the court of Claudius to the battlefields of Valter the Bloodhammer, boys discovered that family, friendships and fate remain an essential part of all of our stories. Boasting an original soundtrack composed, rehearsed and conducted by Year 11 student, Sebastian Lingane, the 2018 production of Hamlet was one not to be missed. Audiences experienced the strength and fragility of humanity and our primary influence - love, as performed by BBC and St. Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School students in Shakespeare's greatest tragedy. In an exciting first, Theatre Vice Captain, Benjamin Davison, selected and directed the second show of the season, Regicide. Benjamin’s tireless efforts to encourage younger performers and to give back to the College were inspirational. This initiative demonstrated again the strength of the program. It is fantastic to witness the growth of Senior students as mentors for their younger peers, coaching and leading to success. BBC Theatre looks forward to welcoming you to their 2019 productions.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
48 | BBC ARTS
MITCH’S MOMENT WITH AUSSIE MUSIC LEGEND
In July, BBC Boarder, Mitch Salisbury, took to the stage at the Paul Kelly and Friends Charity Concert in Dirranbandi, 600km south west of Brisbane. The concert saw Australian music legends, Paul Kelly and Ian Moss join with Sydney-based band The Preatures, Mitch and other local Queensland and Northern New South Wales artists and bands, to perform in support of local youth in rural communities. Funds raised from the event will help finance the Dirranbandi P-10 Agricultural Studies Program focused on providing young people with opportunities to study Agriculture and employ these skills in their daily lives on the land. Music has always been a part of Mitch’s life, yet since arriving at BBC, he has grown immensely as a songwriter and performer. “I grew up in a small town called Monto, about two hours west of Bundaberg. Mum tells me I used to sing all the time when I was little and I learnt piano when I was in primary school. After my teacher left town, there was nobody in the region to fill the gap, so one day I decided to pick up a guitar mum had lying around the house and I started to teach myself,” said Mitch. “Looking back, I realise how much I’ve learned since first picking up that guitar, to taking lessons when I arrived at the College in 2016, to being involved in the BBC Rock program,” he said.
MUSIC TO OUR EARS
Year 9 student, Noah Lynch took top billing in the prestigious Young Instrumentalist Prize, hosted by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. The competition promotes young school-aged musicians and encourages them to perform concert repertoire in the form of a movement from a concerto. The formidable line-up featured six of Queensland’s superstars of youth music and saw Noah win the 2018 Young Instrumentalist Prize, playing the final movement of Bruch’s Violin Concerto. This wonderful achievement further cements Noah’s position as a frontrunner on the Queensland music scene. The prize included a solo performance accompanied by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra at the ENGAGE education concert at QPAC and a financial contribution towards further study. Last year, Noah placed Third in this competition, with his older brother Julius (OB 2017) placing Second. This year, Noah also went on to be the second student in BBC history to win both the Concerto Competition and Middle School Solo Championship in the same year.
BBC ARTS | 49
2019 CONCERT CALENDAR 14 MARCH Twilight Concert 6.30pm - College Hall 16 MAY Autumn Sounds 1 5.00pm - College Hall
NEW SONGS AND PERFORMANCES BY THE NEXT GENERATION
It is not every day that you get to perform an original piece in front of, let alone alongside, Australian music legend, 18-time ARIA award winner and BBC Old Boy, Darren Middleton (OB 1988). However that is exactly what our students did at the second Annual Darren Middleton Songwriting Competition hosted by BBC Music. The talent, confidence and creativity of our musicians was once again centre stage as Darren crowned members of Middle School Band YesNoMaybe (Charlie White, Benjamin Marshall and Oscar White) winners of the 2018 competition. Following the presentation, Darren performed several of his songs, including some new material, before welcoming Senior students to join him on stage to perform the Powderfinger classic, My Happiness. We thank Darren for his time and commitment to the next generation of musicians and look forward to welcoming him back to BBC next year as interest in the Darren Middleton Songwriting Competition and workshops continues to grow.
BBC MUSIC
BBC Music boasts wonderful achievements at both individual and ensemble levels. JACOB AZIZ won the Junior School Solo Championship for the second consecutive year. Congratulations to CRUSADERS on winning the second Junior School Interhouse Choral Competition. Many of our students were selected to attend the various GPS COMBINED MUSIC DAYS. Brisbane Boys’ College was well represented at the various STATE HONOURS ENSEMBLE PROGRAMS held at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music (Griffith University) this year, with musicians from Junior, Middle and Senior Schools selected to attend. Special mention must be made of the four students selected to attend the inaugural Australian Honours Ensemble Program (AHEP) held in Brisbane - congratulations to GAVIRU DEVENDRA, SEBASTIAN LINGANE, ANGUS MARSHALL and MAX KIRSCH. In another first for BBC, WILL MUIR and SEBASTIAN LINGANE travelled to Seattle in November to attend the Pacific Honours Ensemble Program (PHEP).
23 MAY Autumn Sounds 2 5.00pm - College Hall 7 AUGUST Concerto Competition Finals and Middle School Solo Championship 5.30pm - College Hall 15 AUGUST Music Showcase 6.30pm - College Hall 30 AUGUST Grand Concert 7.00pm - College Hall 18 OCTOBER Sounds of Scotland 7.00pm - College Hall 22 OCTOBER Junior Gala Concert 6.30pm - College Hall 29 OCTOBER Finale Concert 6.30pm - College Hall For any further concert information please contact music@bbc.qld.edu.au or phone 07 3309 3520.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
50 | BBC ARTS
COLLEGE ART SHOW
THIS YEAR OUR BBC COMMUNITY TOOK SOME TIME TO STOP, COLLABORATE AND LISTEN TO A THOUGHTFUL AND IMAGINATIVE EXHIBITION OF STUDENT CREATIONS AT THE COLLEGE ART SHOW. ARTWORK FROM EVERY PREP TO YEAR 12 ARTIST WAS ON DISPLAY AND THE BBC WINNERS OF THE PMSA ART COMPETITION WERE ANNOUNCED. THANK YOU TO ALL WHO CAME ALONG TO SUPPORT OUR BBC ARTISTS.
BBC SPORT | 51
BBC SPORTS 53 Ironing out junior rivals Sam Slater's success at the Queensland Schoolboys Golf Championship and World Junior Golf Championship
54 Carving a career in rugby union BBC First XV Captain, Carter Gordon takes the field in Australian Schoolboys Rugby team
54 Queensland unveils 205cm bowler Matthew Willans takes bowling partnership to new heights
52
Take a bow Sporting short reads and representative honours COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
52 | BBC SPORT
TAKE A BOW
AT BBC WE DELIBERATELY OFFER A BROAD RANGE OF SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES, SO THAT EVERY BOY CAN CHOOSE TO ACCESS AREAS IN WHICH HE CAN PARTICIPATE, GROW, BE CHALLENGED AND, ULTIMATELY, EXCEL. WE RELY ON HIGH QUALITY TEAMWORK IN EVERY ASPECT OF THE CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAM AND EXPECT OUR BOYS TO COMMIT FULLY TO 'TEAM BEFORE SELF'. WE BELIEVE THAT TRYING TO WIN IS A GOOD THING. WE BELIEVE THAT, IN TRYING TO WIN, WE ENCOURAGE OUR BOYS TO PARTICIPATE AT HIGH LEVELS, TO LEARN THE HOW AND WHY OF THE ACTIVITY, TO STRETCH THEIR COMPETENCIES AND SET THEIR ASPIRATIONS HIGH. THIS YEAR, WE HAVE SEEN TWO GPS CHAMPIONSHIPS AND ONE PREMIERSHIP EARNED BY OUR BBC BOYS. WE HAVE EARNED TOP THREE RANKED PLACES IN A NUMBER OF GPS PREMIERSHIP SPORTS AND HAVE SEEN OUR BOYS ACHIEVE AT SCHOOL, STATE, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL LEVELS. CLEARLY, OUR BOYS ARE WRITING THEIR STORIES WELL.
BBC SPORT | 53
SWIM, BIKE, RUN, REST, REPEAT Three BBC boys made the podium and were awarded medals at the School Sport Australia Triathlon Championships in Penrith earlier this year. Gold - Jackson Medway (Junior Race), Bronze - Flynn Pumpa (Junior Race) and Bronze - Lachlan Medway (Intermediate Race). Congratulations also to Cross Country Vice Captain, Harrison Medway on his 17th place in the Senior race. All four athletes played a key role in the BBC 2018 GPS Cross Country Premiership win.
ATHLETICS AUSTRALIA NATIONAL JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS Nine College athletes represented Queensland in the National Junior Championships in Sydney, winning four medals: Pat Thygesen (Gold Under 18 Steeplechase); Xavier Savage (Silver Under 18 4x100m relay, Bronze Under 17 100m); Flynn Pumpa (Bronze Under 15 3000m); Jacob Fuller (8th Under 16 200m Hurdles, 10th Under 16 100m Hurdles); Dom Thygesen (10th Under 15 Hammer Throw); Will Chapman (9th Under 15 800m); Jack Bowyer (12th Under 18 200m); Shayden Stevens (13th Under 20 100m); Lachlan Rayner (10th Under 14 High Jump).
DOUBLE BLOCK Beach Volleyballers Ethan Waugh (Year 10) and Mark Nicolaidis (OB 2017) were chosen to be part of the Queensland Under 17 and Under 19 Beach Volleyball teams. They competed in the Australian Junior Beach Volleyball Championships in Perth earlier this year. In a tight game Ethan, with his partner Ben, won the Under 17 title in straight sets against a strong Western Australian side. Mark and his partner James had just returned from placing Third at the Junior Commonwealth Games in the Bahamas. This was the first medal Australia has ever won in Beach Volleyball at the Junior Games. In January, Mark and James went on to win the Under 23 Australian Championships, as 18 year olds, and were confident entering the Under 19 Australian Championships which they went on to win comfortably against Western Australia.
CHECKMATE Year 7 student, Jasper Moss represented Australia at the World Cadet Chess Championships in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Jasper competed against players from around the world, with his longest game taking four and a half hours. He now has his eyes set on the World Youth Championships in Romania in 2020.
MELANESIAN REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Congratulations to Lukas Ripley (Samoa) Bronze Under 18 Discus and Pat Thygesen (Australia) - Gold Under 18 2000m Steeplechase at the Melanesian Regional Championships at Port Vila, Vanuatu.
IRONING OUT JUNIOR RIVALS For the second consecutive year, Sam Slater has been crowned the Queensland Secondary Schools Golf Championship winner, following his performance in the Kingaroy tournament. Sam shot a 79, 69, 72 and 67 to win by four shots, and was again selected in the Queensland Schools Team which competed in the National Schools Championships at Bonville. This achievement follows his success in the World Junior Golf Championships in Indonesia where he finished Second earlier this year.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
54 | BBC SPORT
MAKING A SPLASH
CARVING A CAREER IN RUGBY UNION Congratulations to BBC First XV Captain, Carter Gordon on his selection into the Australian Schoolboys team to contest the Tri Nations Tournament. Carter was selected into an initial 41 player Australian squad following the National Schools Championships in July. He was further selected into the 23 player Australian Schoolboys side, being one of six Queenslanders in the team.
RUGBY Congratulations to the following players recognised through school rugby union pathways this season: Australian Schoolboy representative: Carter Gordon Queensland Schoolboys: Jack Bowyer (Q2) GPS Schoolboys representative teams: Jack Gallagher, Oscar Ruru, Blair Paterson, Shayden Stevens; Matt Stirling (selected but withdrew due to injury) Queensland Under 16: Red team: George Gibson (C), Jake Tierney, Jack Kelly, Jack Howarth, Lukas Ripley, Will Stevens. The Red team finished National Under 16 Champions. Under 15 Junior Gold Cup: QLD Red: Mason Gordon and Taj Annan QLD White: Ted Condon QLD Blue: Henry Doe, James Kininmonth, and Zac Hough. The Red team finished National Under 15 Champions.
James Kininmonth (Year 9) has represented Australia in the Born 2003 Men’s Water Polo squad which travelled to Europe for two international tournaments. James was selected in the final squad of 16, which was reduced from 30, following a training camp. The squad competed in Montenegro in August, before travelling to Serbia for the 12th Darko Čukić Memorial Tournament. The second tournament in Serbia saw 12 of the world’s best Junior teams converge in Belgrade to fight it out for the title. In their pool games, the Australian team had losses to Water Polo powerhouses USA, Serbia and Netherlands. However, good wins were recorded against Malta and Slovakia. James was one of the highest goal scorers of the tournament for the Australian team. In the finals, Australia overpowered Romania to secure Seventh place overall with a nail-biting win, 8 - 7.
THE FOLLOWING BOYS WERE CHOSEN IN STATE AND NATIONAL EVENTS: CROSS COUNTRY
Seth Mahony Cross Country National Championship Matthew Deighton Cross Country National Championship Hugh Moore Cross Country National Championship Flynn Pumpa Cross Country National Championship Jackson Medway Cross Country National Championship Will Chapman Cross Country National Championship Patrick Thygesen Cross Country National Championship
FOOTBALL
Lucas Herrington 5J Football National Championship
ROWING
Samuel Tollasepp Rowing State Team Max Campbell Rowing State Team
RUGBY
QUEENSLAND UNVEILS 205CM BOWLER Matthew Willans took to the field for Queensland against NSW in a 50-over trial match at Border Field. At 205cm tall, the 17 year old formed one half of what might be the tallest opening bowling partnership in Australian cricket history.
George Gibson Rugby National Championship Jack Howarth Rugby National Championship Jack Kelly Rugby National Championship Jake Tierney Rugby National Championship Lukas Ripley Rugby National Championship Will Stevens Rugby National Championship Henry Pettit Rugby National Championship Mason Gordon Rugby National Championship Taj Annan Rugby National Championship Ted Condon Rugby National Championship Henry Doe Rugby National Championship James Kininmonth Rugby National Championship Zac Hough Rugby National Championship Carter Gordon Rugby State Team Carter Gordon Rugby National Team – Australian Schools Jack Bowyer Rugby State Team
TENNIS:
Luke Jones Year 12 Tennis National Championships Finn Macnamara Year 11 Tennis National Championships Liam Franklin Year 11 Tennis National Championships Sam Bajracharya Year 11 Tennis National Championships Jonathan Kim Year 10 Tennis National Championships Eric Padgham Year 9 Tennis National Championships
VOLLEYBALL
Ethan Waugh Volleyball National Championship James Bainbrigge Volleyball National Championship Joseph Simmons Volleyball National Championship James Bainbrigge Volleyball State Team Joseph Simmons Volleyball State Team Ethan Waugh Volleyball State Team
WATER POLO
James Kininmonth Water Polo National Representative
DECATHLON DELIGHT Old Collegian and decathlete, Ashley Moloney (OB 2017), smashed his personal best with a championship record of 8190, taking Gold at the IAAF World Under 20 Championships Tampere 2018, in Finland. According to the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), it is the biggest winning margin in World Under 20 Championships history! Join us in congratulating Ashley on this monumental achievement. Congratulations must also go to his long standing BBC coach, Eric Brown.
For more information on our 2018 sporting achievements read the full feature, Celebrating the GPS Centenary on pages 17-20
INSIGHT | 55
INSIGHT R ESEARCH
RESOURC ES
PE RSPE C TIV E
57 Get connected Putting parents in touch with resources
57 Recommended read Raising boys in the twenty-first century
56
Launch of SchoolTV An online resource designed to support schools and parents as they raise safe, happy and resilient children COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
56 | INSIGHT
PARENT RESOURCE
LAUNCH OF SCHOOLTV AT BBC
EARLIER THIS YEAR, BBC PARTNERED WITH SCHOOLTV, A WORLD FIRST WELLBEING PLATFORM FEATURING DR MICHAEL CARR-GREGG. SCHOOLTV ADDRESSES THE MODERN DAY REALITIES FACED BY SCHOOLS AND PARENTS WHO INCREASINGLY NEED CLEAR, RELEVANT AND FACT-BASED INFORMATION AROUND RAISING SAFE, HAPPY AND RESILIENT YOUNG PEOPLE.
INSIGHT | 57
“THE WELLBEING OF TODAY’S YOUTH HAS NEVER BEEN MORE CHALLENGING”
Get Connected
Putting parents in touch with resources
- DR MICHAEL CARR-GREGG
SCHOOLTV IS A STREAMLINED, AGGREGATED PARENT RESOURCE THAT CONNECTS, INFORMS AND EMPOWERS.
SCHOOLTV IS AVAILABLE BY CLICKING ON THE STV ICON ON THE TOP RIGHT HAND SIDE OF THE COLLEGE WEBSITE.
Whilst there is already a great deal of information available, this can often be confusing and overwhelming for parents looking for guidance and advice. SchoolTV addresses this issue. It is an online resource designed to empower parents with credible, sound information combined with realistic and practical strategies. Featured contributors are leaders in their field on topics such as youth anxiety, depression, self-harm, drug and alcohol abuse, and cyberbullying. Topics include mental health, cyber safety, school survival, healthy body and positive parenting. SchoolTV aggregates information from many great resources such as BeyondBlue and ReachOut, amongst others, providing a single-stream of independent factual information that saves parents time and the confusion of searching across multiple online sites for information.
BEFORE YOU HIT SEND REBECCA SPARROW is the author of three best-selling novels and, in recent times, has focused on writing non-fiction books for teenagers. She is currently working on a follow-up to Ask Me Anything for teenage boys. Aside from writing books Rebecca writes for Mamamia.com.au, co-hosts the health and happiness podcast The Well and talks to thousands of high school students every year about friendship, resilience, giving back and life online. Rebecca is an ambassador for Givit.org.au, The Pyjama Foundation and #TeamGirls. She is also a member of the Queensland Anti-Bullying Taskforce to develop proposals to address bullying and cyberbullying. Rebecca visited BBC in March as part of our P&F Parent Forum series. Practical parent resources from her presentation are available via https://rebeccasparrow.com/before-you-hit-send-notes/
RECOMMENDED READ Raising Boys In The Twenty-First Century How To Help Our Boys Become Open-Hearted, Kind And Strong Men Steve Biddulph STEVE BIDDULPH is one of the world’s best known parent educators. A psychologist for 30 years, he is now retired but continues to write and teach. His books, including The Secret of Happy Children, The New Manhood and now 10 Things Girls Need Most are in four million homes and in 31 languages. They have influenced the way we look at childhood, and especially the development of boys. Steve was made a Member of the Order of Australia for his work in young people’s mental health. Steve visited BBC in August as part of our P&F Parent Forum series. For daily discussions, resources and news visit http://www.stevebiddulph.com
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
58 | CONNECT
CONNECT O LD COLLEGIAN S
F O U N D AT ION
COM MU N ITY EV EN TS
59 From the OCA President Towards 2020, a message from Chris Humphrey
60 Spotlight on OCA events Snapshots of recent OCA activities
67 Commemorative Cube Candle Honouring the life of Lance Corporal Arthur Charles Roe
74 From the Foundation Chairman A message from Sandy Grant
64
Ninjas of today, leaders of tomorrow Valuable lessons in leadership inspired by an Old Boy and delivered by BBC students
CONNECT | 59
MURRAY MCNAUGHT AND CHRIS HUMPHREY
Toward 2020 CHRIS HUMPHREY, OCA PRESIDENT
1920 - 2020
On the 27 August 1920, the Brisbane Boys’ College Old Collegians’ Association (OCA) was formed. It took 18 years from the College’s creation in 1902 (a year after the Federation of Australia) for the initial form of the OCA to be established. Since then, every year has been a link in the chain, with each generation paving the way for the next. In 2018, our 98th year of existence, it is vital that today's links are as strong as they were at the very beginning. As President of the OCA for the next two years, I look forward to leading the OCA, along with the OCA Executive Committee, into our Centenary in 2020 and beyond. Our focus as a Committee is threefold - to lift our profile across the broader BBC community, to increase sons of Old Boys enrolments and encourage further OCA engagement. The 2018/2019 Old Collegians’ Executive Committee, which represents the wider network of Old Boys, consists of an expanse of alumni years and experience. Along with myself (OB 1990 and current parent), I am supported by Vice President, Murray McNaught (OB 1992 and current parent), Graham Sagar (OB 1969 and Vintage Collegians’ representative), Alex Russell (OB 2015, College Captain and Young Old Boys’ representative), former OCA Presidents, Arthur Palmer (OB 1970 and current parent) and Peter Dun (OB 1968 and past parent), Grant Rynne (OB 2000 and future parent), Russell Byrnes (OB 1985 and current parent), Tom Law (OB 2011 and College Captain) and Andrew Stephen (OB 1994 and current parent). This fine group of men have the breadth and experience to assist me in bringing our goals to fruition. The groundwork for our OCA Centenary has already begun with 2018 being a big year in terms of Old Boy engagement. We have seen our marquee community events sell out for multiple years in a row, including the BBC Long Lunch, which has seen steady growth between various venues, together with the Hutchies BBC Golf Day in its 10th year at Indooroopilly Golf Club. Our Vintage Collegians have continued to enjoy their four luncheons across South East Queensland and a small group, who have met in College House each Tuesday since 1994, are still continuing to ensure the rich history and traditions of the College are passed on to the next generation. Our Young Old Boys’ Committee is focused on establishing connections with our most recent school-leavers. They have hosted two functions each year, as
If any Old Collegians would like to express interest in becoming part of the OCA’s Centenary Committee or would like to assist us in organising an OCA event interstate or overseas, please contact oca@bbc.qld.edu.au
well as presenting at both the Year 7 Retreat and the Annual University Orientation for the previous Year 12 cohort. The combined decade reunions and Old Boys’ Day format have proven to be very successful. Once again we have seen an increase in numbers at each of the separate events held over a weekend in September. Maintaining traditions has been another important focus for 2018, with the growth of the BBC Old Collegians’ Rowing, Basketball and Pipe Band clubs. Each of the clubs has seen a boost in numbers and a groundswell of support from Old Boys. These clubs are an important lifeline to the OCA as they help us in achieving our original mission of fostering relationships between Old Collegians. Our engagement within the College has also steadily improved over the years with BBC community offerings such as our Annual BBC Networking Breakfast, assisting or attending various P&F and College events, the implementation and expansion of the BBC Business Directory, in addition to our Old Collegians who return to the College and give generously of their time as coaches, staff and volunteers. I would like to thank all our Old Boys who have helped us improve the bridge between the College and the OCA. Our new Headmaster, Paul Brown, Deputy Headmaster, Damon Emtage and Head of Advancement, Peter Franks have been instrumental in allowing the OCA further access and engagement with current students and we look forward to that camaraderie continuing into the future. Lastly, I would like to thank former OCA President, Chris Hartley for his focus and dedication to the OCA over the past two years. Under his leadership, the OCA has gone from strength to strength and has gained momentum in connecting with Old Boys, current students and the wider parent body. We look forward to continuing the legacy of each of our former Presidents and past OCA Committees as we bring the OCA forward for the next 100 years.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
60 | CONNECT
SPOTLIGHT ON OCA EVENTS In this edition we recap on a number of events that have taken place across 2018. These events have seen people from all parts of our community come together to honour all things Green,White, Black.
JANUARY 5
GABBA EVENT In this sold out event, 100 BBC Community members attended our first function for 2018. In a private space in the Queensland Cricketers' Club, our guests watched Brisbane Heat take on the Perth Scorchers Big Bash match at the Gabba. It was fantastic to welcome multiple generations of Old Boy families including the Beard, Rylance and Stehn families.
FEBRUARY 7
F O U N D E R ' S D AY
23 U N I O R I E N T A T I O N
Transitioning from school to uni can be a daunting task. On Tuesday 23 January, 15 Young Old Boys from the 2017 Senior cohort attended our UQ University Orientation session with guest speaker, Alex Russell (OB 2015 and current UQ student). Alex passed on tricks and secrets of surviving the first few weeks of university.
24 A N Z A C D A Y
BBC celebrated its 116th birthday in the form of Founder's Day Assemblies. Our sincerest thanks to Old Boys, Lindsay and Graham Packer, from Packer Leather, who spoke at our Junior, Middle and Senior services.
9
SYDNEY REUNION Special thanks to our attendees who took the time to meet up with the BBC staff who travelled down for the event. Steele Fitchett (OB 1952, pictured below left) travelled two hours by train from Newcastle, in order to catch up with fellow classmate, Stuart Behne (OB 1952, pictured below right) at the Sydney reunion.
13 P E R T H R E U N I O N
It was great to see a group of Old Boys gather in Perth on Saturday 13 January. In attendance were Mat Cox (2003), Iain Lund (2000), Andrew Pike (1972), Bob Somerville (1980), Jarrod Turner (1999), Robin Lamb (2006) and Henry Johnson (2006). It was also great to see Michael Cranley (2002).
APRIL At the BBC ANZAC Day Commemoration Service, all students, staff and guests acknowledged the supreme sacrifice paid by 101 Old Collegians. Since the release of the BBC book The Fallen in 2015, three more previously unknown fallen Old Boys have been added to our Honour Roll.
26 N E T W O R K I N G BREAKFAST On Thursday 26 April, 70 members of the College community, including Old Boys, staff and current and past parents, had the pleasure of listening to guest speaker Executive Chairman of Consolidated Properties, Don O'Rorke (OB 1977). Those who attended the networking breakfast, were delighted that Don made time in his busy schedule to give back to the College and share his knowledge and wisdom.
MAY 5 13 V C ' S T O O W O O M B A
YOUNG OLD BOYS' EVENT Eighty Young Old Boys, primarily from the 2017, 2016 and 2015 cohorts, attended their first function for 2018. It was a great opportunity for our most recent school-leavers to catch up and rekindle friendships since leaving the College.
Headmaster, Paul Brown joined our Vintage Collegians for a sumptuous lunch at Toowoomba's Picnic Point for the first VC luncheon for 2018. With 45 Old Boys in attendance as well as special guests Karen Brown and Eunice Lloyd, the atmosphere was full of chatter, laughter and more importantly, plenty of banter.
22 Y E A R 7 R E T R E A T
On Monday 22 and Tuesday 23 February,
23 Alex Russell (OB 2015), Harry Bates
(OB 2015) and Dom Walton (OB 2016) attended the BBC Year 7 Retreat at Camp Somerset. Alex, Harry and Dom shared their wisdom and experience with the newest editions to Middle School and this was yet another opportunity for our Young Old Boys to give back to current students.
9
V C ' S M T TA M B O R I N E A group of 30 Vintage Collegians (Old Boys 60+) travelled to Mount Tamborine for a two-course meal, wine tasting and a glow worm tour at Cedar Creek Estate Vineyard and Winery.
CONNECT | 61
AUGUST 31 B B C L O N G L U N C H
CONTINUE SEPTEMBER 15 O L D B O Y S ' D A Y
It was a full house at Lightspace as we welcomed 260 members from the BBC community including Old Boys, current, past and future parents, as well as members of staff to our fourth Annual BBC Long Lunch.
The day began with more than 40 visitors (many from reunion groups) participating in tours of the College. Our community also came together to raise money to support drought relief with special mention of the Basketball and Junior School Support Groups who held bake sales as well as the College Shop who also donated proceeds to the cause. Special thanks to our Junior School boys who walked around the crowd collecting donations. The BBC Old Collegians’ Rowing Club christened their new boat ‘Stalwart Sons’ on the day. It is always a treat to hear the combined BBC and OCA Pipe Bands play on Old Boys’ Day. Post-Match Event: Following the conclusion of the First XV game, approximately 250 guests met off campus at Wests Juniors AFC for beverages and a Rudd House sausage sizzle.
Sincere thanks to major sponsor, Sci-Fleet Motors and surprise guest and Sci-Fleet Ambassador - Jeff 'The Hornet' Horn; Corporate Sponsor, Redchip; Steve Haddan; Ted Walton; KissPhotography; Wine & Dine'm Catering and OCA Pipers, Andrew Taylor (OB 1985) and Jim MacDonnell (OB 1984). All proceeds from the BBC Long Lunch went towards funding the OCA Bursary.
SEPTEMBER 14 D E C A D E R E U N I O N S
43 members of the Class of 1958 and their guests enjoyed a tour of the College and an impromptu performance from Piper, Fearghas Russell (OB 2018) on their way to College Hall. A two-course meal was enjoyed in the Boarders’ Dining Room. The 58s noted the food had vastly improved since their school days, with no tripe or offal served. That night, our Decade Reunions of 2008, 1998, 1988, 1978 and 1968 were greeted with a lone piper at the entrance, just in case they forgot they were attending a BBC function. The five reunions were held in separate rooms of Wests Bulldogs Rugby Club. At the conclusion of the individual reunions the doors were opened, allowing 300 Old Boys, spanning five decades, to come together and enjoy the rest of the evening as one large group.
OCTOBER 18 G Y M N A S T I C S H O N O U R BOARD UNVEILING We were delighted to welcome back past BBC gymnasts for the unveiling of the Gymnastic Honour Board Ceremony and Morning Tea. Thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers, the Gymnastics Honour Board in the College Hall Foyer, now include the Captains from 1953 to 1977. We were pleased that former Headmaster, Graham Thomson and former Masters, Colin Goldburg and Simon Newcomb were also in attendance.
19 H U T C H I E S B B C G O L F D AY For the 10th consecutive year the Hutchies BBC Golf Day was again held at Indooroopilly Golf Club with 30 teams (120 players) taking to the course. Our sincere thanks to Scott and Hutchinson Builders for their continued support which is always greatly appreciated. Thanks also to our hole and prize sponsors.
OCTOBER 5
BEVERAGES, BBQ AND BOWLS NIGHT
On Friday 5 October, the Young Old Boys’ Committee hosted their second event of the year, a night of beverages, BBQ and lawn bowls at Toowong Bowls Club. We look forward to welcoming the Senior cohort of 2018 at a Young Old Boys’ event in 2019.
END OF 2018 NOV 17 NOV 1993 Reunion 21 NOV VC's Pelican Waters 29 NOV Nic MacBean Cup
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
62 | CONNECT
NETWORKING BREAKFAST Thursday 26 April
MT TAMBORINE Wednesday 9 May
BBC LONG LUNCH Friday 31 August
DECADE REUNIONS Friday 14 September
OLD BOYS' DAY Saturday 15 September
CONNECT | 63
YOUNG OLD BOYS' EVENT Saturday 5 May
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
64 | CONNECT
Ninjas of Today… Leaders of Tomorrow… A valuable lesson in leadership, delivered by BBC students, through a covert ninja training program. In 2013, Zachary Fook (OB 2010) met a six year old girl with cerebral palsy, Isla, who couldn't find a dance school in Brisbane that was willing or able to accommodate her additional needs. Zac used Isla’s story as inspiration, and whilst studying business at The University of Queensland, had the opportunity to create change as part of a Social Enterprise project. Five years on, Tippy Toe Co., Australia’s first social enterprise dance school for young people with disabilities, has taught ballet, tap, jazz and hip hop to over 200 students from across South East Queensland. Realising the high demand in the community for more inclusive and accessible extra-curricular opportunities, In May 2018, Zac branched out from dance and opened Active Eight (A8) at 80 Jephson Street, Toowong. A8 is a registered NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) service provider and supportive non-profit studio for young people of all abilities under the age of 25, focused on providing innovative therapy-based programs and interventions. A8 currently offers occupational therapy, speech pathology, exercise physiology, yoga, art and dance therapies, performing arts, early intervention, exercise programs, and over 120 internationally recognised certificate-based training courses. A8 is a welcoming and supportive activity hub that focuses on creating inclusive and meaningful opportunities. A8 offers a whole new range of experiences and programs, designed to further social, emotional and creative potential - all while having fun! In recent years, Zac has returned to BBC on multiple occasions meeting with Dom Piacun (Head of Drama and Film, Television and
New Media) to collaborate and establish the BBC Social Enterprise program from 2015-2017, paving the way for One Quarter in 2015. In early 2018, Zac and Dom once again collaborated to establish the pilot of the Ninja Warrior Big Brother Program launched in Term 3. This was a collaboration between ActiveEight and Brisbane Boys’ College to offer BBC Senior students, under the guidance of Eileen Morgan (Middle School Housemaster) and Kieran Hogan (Physical Education teacher), the opportunity to experience possible allied health and fitness industry career experience, while at the same time enriching the lives of children with special needs. The pilot program saw 38 ActiveEight members and 39 BBC students participate across two different programs, all with the aim to stimulate A8 members physically and socially in a fun and integrated environment. However, what unfolded over the six-week pilot delivered a more holistic and lasting impact than anyone could have imagined. The participating BBC Big Brothers were buddied up with 38 'Ninjas' from special, state and private schools across South East Queensland and were charged with working in pairs or one-on-one to stimulate the Ninjas physically and socially in a fun, safe and integrated environment. Activities were designed by an expert team comprising of A8’s exercise physiologist, Brent Paxton, and occupational therapist, Shannon Lovell, as well as BBC Gymnastic coach, Cameron Changuion (OB 2016) and facilitated by BBC Senior students. Physically, the program developed the Ninjas gross motor skills in the areas of coordination, flexibility and endurance. Socially, the
CONNECT | 65
BUDDY SPOTLIGHT “Looking back on my time at the College it is defining moments like these, where we are challenged to go outside of our comfort zone and do something bigger than ourselves that enables us to become the types of leaders our community and society at large need. This combination with BBC and our A8 members is a perfect match, everybody comes away having gained invaluable skills, perspectives and experiences.” Zac Fook (OB 2010)
program enabled Ninjas and their Big Brothers to form friendships, participate in a group environment and cater for a range of sensory needs. However, it was the emotional intelligence element of the program that enabled the BBC Big Brothers to develop a range of leadership skills and qualities including empathy, compassion, service and the ability to adapt their non-verbal and verbal communication styles and delivery. The feedback from the community and parents of the young Ninja’s about the program and the leadership, enthusiasm and compassion shown by the Big Brothers was overwhelmingly positive with one carer commenting; “Freddy has loved the ability to have a safe space to run, play and interact. I am blown away by the enthusiasm from the Big Brothers and how they have built genuine bonds with the young people they are supporting. They are not just volunteers, they have fully embraced the experience and have done an amazing job!” “Looking back on my time at the College, it is defining moments like these, where we are challenged to go outside of our comfort zone and do something bigger than ourselves that enables us to become the types of leaders our community and society at large need. This combination with BBC and our A8 members is a perfect match, everybody comes away having gained invaluable skills, perspectives and experiences,” said Zac. BBC and Active Eight are currently exploring the best way this life-changing collaboration between both organisations can continue long into the future.
Ninja: Will, 17, Red Hill Special School BBC Buddies: Jason Aggarwal and Maximillian Kirsch, 17 What were your Ninja’s likes and dislikes? Will loves Hi-5 and hugs and enjoys throwing cones and looking at bright lights. He doesn’t like squats (but who does?). Program goals: Helping Will to complete the course as independently as possible and build confidence in climbing the mountain obstacle. Challenges: Will is diagnosed with global development delay and needs physical assistance to walk, balance and climb. He is also non-verbal. Program reflections from Jason and Maximillian: The highlight of the program was seeing Will walk unassisted for the first time. To have gone from trying to understand how to best work around Will’s mobility challenges, to not needing to provide physical support in the last few weeks was an awesome feeling. This showed us just how capable and determined Will is, and the impact we were able to make by being buddied with him. After learning that Will is our age, we just felt so grateful for everything we are capable of doing and learnt to be more receptive of these gifts. Going forward, we will definitely be less judgemental and more compassionate towards people with different needs, and do our best to help more people, more often.
Ninja: Nicky, 9, The Sycamore School BBC Buddy: Charlie Bell, 16 What were your Ninja’s likes and dislikes? Nicky loves Monsters Inc., quoting movie trailers he’s watched and pretending to be a pirate. He dislikes 'The Bandit' and other villain type characters. Program goals: To have fun and help Nicky follow instructions and be part of a group. Challenges: Nicky is diagnosed with autism and is working on listening skills and engaging in group activities. Program reflections from Charlie: At the beginning of the program I was initially nervous ,having not had much exposure to people with disabilities. However, after working with Nicky I now strive to live my life with as much happiness and joy as he does. Getting to bond with Nicky throughout the program, and seeing him become more confident in talking to me and asking for assistance, was an absolute highlight and gave me a huge sense of fulfilment.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
66 | CONNECT
MATESHIP
THE OLD COLLEGIANS' CLUBS ARE AN IMPORTANT LIFELINE TO THE OCA AS THEY HELP FOSTER CONTINUING RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN MEMBERS.
BBC Old Collegians’ Rowing Club To celebrate 100 years of rowing at BBC, in 2016 a group of Old Boys formed an Eight from past students and competed at Australia’s largest Eights race, the Head of the Yarra. Each year some 250 rowing eights converge on the narrow and winding Yarra River to time-trial race over 8.6kms. With that, the BBC Old Collegians’ Rowing Club was born. The purpose of the club is to get BBC Old Boys rowing again. With enormous depth of age in the club, their oldest members are Chris Beech (OB 1974) and Roger Gould (OB 1974) and the youngest is Elliot Williams (OB 2016). The Club has members from ‘81, ‘84, ‘87, ‘90, ‘92, ‘98 and 2012. The Old Collegians’ Rowing Club members come in all
shapes and sizes, abilities and fitness levels. They row a few times a week and do ergos a couple of times, depending on the season. To cater for an increase in club numbers and the need for a greater range of boats, they have moved sheds and now row out of the Toowong Rowing Club. These BBC Old Collegians have come together to rekindle their love of rowing and, along the way, have made new friends and reacquainted with old ones. The years between them have not mattered, nor the variations in skill or strength. The common thread that brings the Old Collegians’ Rowers together in such harmony is the green, white and black. If you would like to get back into the boat, please email Wade Ruffin (OB 1984) via wade@placewest.com.au
BBC Old Collegians' Pipe Band More than just a group of friends, the members of the BBC OCA Pipe Band (OCAPB) have been performing music together now for nearly 30 years. The band makes its professional mark appearing in competitions throughout the year in both Queensland and New South Wales. The band is also well known for performing at various community events whenever possible. If you are looking out for them on ANZAC Day, they can be found in the street parades, hosted by a number of country towns just outside of Brisbane, including Jimboomba, Canungra and Beaudesert, where they have loyally attended for a number of decades. Not so different from the BBC boys, the OCAPB also holds a strong connection with the BBC Pipe Band as a pathway after graduation. In fact, seven members were able to travel to Scotland and play at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo this year with the College band. This was a wonderful experience for all involved and a fantastic showcase of not only the musical talents of the bands, but also the comradery amongst friends. With over 20 members, the band continues to grow and doesn't show any signs of slowing down, or having any less fun in the process. You will continue to see them playing at state and national competitions over the coming years, with the potential for international trips on the horizon. Follow the band at their website for a list of upcoming events.
WWW.OLDCOLLEGIANSPIPEBAND.COM
CONNECT | 67
Commemorative Cube Candle TO HONOUR THE LIFE OF LANCE CORPORAL ARTHUR CHARLES ROE
Lance Corporal Arthur Charles Roe, listed as the first student on the school roll at Mr Barney Rudd’s School, Clayfield College/Brisbane Boys’ College, was added to the BBC Honour Roll at the College’s 2018 ANZAC Day Commemorative Service. To honour the life and ultimate sacrifice made by BBC’s first student, a Commemorative Cube Candle now sits proudly at his memorial headstone, at the Lone Pine Cemetery on the Gallipoli Peninsular, Turkey.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
68 | CONNECT
ARTHUR CHARLES ROE LANCE CORPORAL ARTHUR CHARLES ROE When Mr Rudd’s School, Clayfield (College) opened on 10 February 1902, Arthur Charles Roe, aged 14 years, was number one on the school roll. He was the youngest son of Robert William and Mary Ann Roe of Clayfield, later of Wahroonga, Sydney. "A salesman who had served for two years in the Queensland Rifles, No 180, Arthur C Roe enlisted on 1 September 1914 at Kensington, NSW. After two months training, Private Roe was deployed in the 1st Infantry Division of the Australian Imperial Forces, which arrived in Egypt on the 2 December 1914. Lance Corporal (L-Cpl) Roe was killed in action at the notable battle for Lone Pine, Gallipoli on 6-9 August 1915. He was 28 years old. L-Cpl Arthur Roe’s name is remembered with honour in the Lone Pine Cemetery (Special Memorial C, grave 60) on the Gallipoli Peninsular, Turkey and also on Panel 30 in the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. Appropriately, the 1st Infantry Division Unit Colour Patch is black and green.”
SPOTLIGHT ON DESIGN “The task of designing a memorial piece for Lance Corporal Arthur Charles Roe, which tells his story on five surfaces, was no mean feat. Inspiration for the acrylic solar candle was sought from a television show which saw a woman leave a candle in the window each night in the hope that her missing child would return, along with images of the Shrine of Remembrance. I enjoyed working with the team at Signarama to design the piece which draws inspiration from the BBC school blazer, and displays Lance Corporal Arthur Charles Roe's story on the top surface of the acrylic cube so it can be read from a standing position. When the sun goes down over the Lone Pine Cemetery on the Gallipoli Peninsular,
our small memorial burns just for Arthur. Far away from where Lance Corporal Roe paid the ultimate sacrifice, his school and its students still remember him and his brave, selfless actions.”
KAREN VAUSE, MOTHER OF YEAR 10 STUDENT, BLAKE SHEPPARD
+ COMMEMORATIVE CUBE CANDLE • Inscription derived from the research by Helen Jackson, College Archivist • Design by Karen Vause, Mother of Blake Sheppard • Manufactured by Luke Donnelly, Signarama - Nundah • Donated by Mark Griffith, Deputy Head of Junior School - Administration & Student Wellbeing, and his wife, Jan who delivered the candle to the Lone Pine Cemetery, Turkey on Sunday 23 September 2018.
CONNECT | 69
Milestones
CAMERON LEE, FEARGHAS RUSSELL AND ALEXIS SANDERS
SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT
Jacques Langlasse (1999 - 2003) passed in July 2018
In each edition of Collegian, we include a number of community
Peter Lawton (Master from 1950 - 1986) passed in June 2018
announcements including births, weddings and the vale as part of
Malcolm Finlayson (1954 - 1956) passed in June 2018
our Milestone section. If you have an announcement you would like
Colin Brimblecombe (1949 - 1950) passed in June 2018
to share with us, relating to either yourself or a fellow Old Boy, please
Glen Crowther (1949 - 1952) passed in May 2018
inform BBC’s Alumni Office via oca@bbc.qld.edu.au
Donald Newman (1937 - 1942) passed in May 2018
WEDDINGS
Rev Dr Douglas Brandon (1949 - 1951) passed in June 2018 Martin Darveniza (1975 - 1980) passed in June 2018
Rev Allan Bradley (1944 - 1953) passed in May 2018 Arnold ‘Ross’ Mathers (1953 - 1956) passed in April 2018
20 October Brendan O’Shea (2002) and Sofia Nyberg
Peter Dickinson (1958 - 1962) passed in April 2018
3 October Cameron Lee (2010) and Alexis Sanders
Stuart Matchett (1958 - 1967) passed in April 2018
8 September David Runge (1998) and Alisha Dean
Keith Olsen (1940 - 1941) passed in April 2018
9 June Timothy Larcombe (2003) and Amanda O’Halloran
Ronald ‘Bill’ Bell (1934 - 1936) passed in April 2018
VALE
Norman ‘Carey’ Mansfield (1949 - 1952) passed in April 2018
James ‘Jim’ Goodfellow (1943 -1944), passed in November 2018
Ridley Williams (1952 - 1959) passed in March 2018
Blair Chadwick (1960 - 1962) passed in October 2018
Charles Scott (1935) passed in March 2018
Craig Shaw (1950 - 1953) passed in October 2018
Leigh Hemming (1957 - 1963) passed in March 2018
John Waldron (1953 - 1957) passed in October 2018
Richard Pearson (1965 - 1970) passed in February 2018
Rushi Maniar (2001 - 2004) passed in September 2018
Harold Webster (1943 - 1944) passed in February 2018
Gregory Savage (1965 - 1969) passed in September 2018
Cr George ‘Bill’ Roberts OBE (1939 - 1942) passed in February 2018
Victor Moy (1948 - 1949) passed in September 2018
Dr David Nimmo BEM (1941 - 1945) passed in January 2018
Richard Behan (1947 - 1952) passed in September 2018
Dougal Robertson (1963 - 1966) passed in December 2017
David Strachan (1976 - 1981) passed in September 2018
Barry Venamore (1949 - 1952) passed in December 2017
Bernard J Catt (1983 - 1988) passed in August 2018
Eric Munro (1940 - 1943) passed in October 2017
Jonathan Cameron (1941 - 1946) passed in August 2018
Leslie ‘Monty’ Roche (1937 - 1940) passed in October 2017
Kyle Le Roux (2011 - 2018) passed in July 2018
Colin Provan (1938 - 1939) passed in July 2017
Donald Knowlman (1940 - 1941) passed in April 2018
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
70 | SNAPSHOTS
P&F WELCOME PARTY 5 FEBRUARY - COLLEGE HALL FORECOURT New and returning families heralded the 2018 academic year at the annual BBC Parents and Friends' Association Welcome Party. The event provided an opportunity to connect with other parents and friends of the College.
SNAPSHOTS | 71
COLLEGE ANZAC COMMEMORATIVE SERVICE 24 APRIL - JUNIOR SCHOOL GREEN ANZAC Day is always a special time of year for the College. In addition to the College's annual commemorative service, the BBC Pipe Band and Brass Band performed at a variety of local services to honour the fallen and those who have and continue to serve our country.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
72 | SNAPSHOTS
SPRING FASHION PARADE 14 SEPTEMBER - HILLSTONE, ST LUCIA Hillstone, St Lucia was transformed into a floral feast for the senses at the annual BBC Spring Fashion Parade. At what has become an endearing event on the BBC Parent Connections social calendar, more than 300 guests gathered for a day of fashion, food and a whole lot of fun. Funds raised were donated to Outback Futures and the Hope Foundation in support of their important community work.
SNAPSHOTS | 73
SPEECH NIGHT 6 NOVEMBER - QPAC Speech Night provided an opportunity for the College community to come together to recognise the remarkable academic achievements of our boys. Speech Night saw the announcement of our 2018 Dux of the School (EQU) Harry Briggs and Maximilian Windsor, along with the announcement of our 2019 College Captain, Taehwan Kim and Co-Vice Captains, Patrick Thygesen and Charlie Bell. This year the College also paid homage to long-serving Head of Teaching and Learning, Mr Barry Dean and BBC Council Chairman, Mrs Jacqueline McPherson who retire from their positions at the conclusion of 2018. Both Barry and Jacqueline have provided outstanding service to the College and were recognised with a standing ovation.
MIDDLE SCHOOL TRANSITION ASSEMBLY Wednesday 28 November
JUNIOR SCHOOL GRADUATION Wednesday 28 November
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
74 | CONNECT
B R I S B A N E
B O Y S ’
C O L L E G E
F O U N DAT I O N The Foundation’s philanthropic purpose is to raise and manage funds for the benefit of all BBC boys. It always has been and always will be.
SANDY GRANT
CHAIRMAN BBC FOUNDATION LTD
The Foundation serves as a facilitator of gifts from our community and gives them directly to the College for specific projects. In the past, funds raised have helped building projects such as the Middle School Precinct, College Hall, the Captain’s Room and Bisset Gallery, and more recently, raising $1,000,000 to help renovate the Boarding House. In 2018, the Foundation also agreed to contribute $190,000 to structural improvements of the Barbara Helen Thompson Sporting Complex. Gifts from our generous supporters are directed towards areas such as music, art and cultural programs, bursaries and Indigenous programs. The Foundation raises necessary funds for projects the College could not otherwise afford. Each year our
ACCESS. EQUITY. TRADITION. Every year, the College asks our community to support the Annual Appeal. This year, bursaries enabling exceptional, deserving boys an entry to a world-class education at BBC, regardless of background, location and financial position, were showcased. These included the Bush Kids Bursary, Old Collegians’ Bursary and the Indigenous Bursary. Donations during this year’s appeal resulted in a wonderful response, with over $185,000 raised. Gifts from Old Boys, current and past parents, staff and friends of the College
helped provide opportunities for talented boys to accomplish their educational ambitions. Some of the monies raised will also go towards fulfilling existing College bursary commitments as well as to open opportunities for further bursaries. The difference a bursary makes to the lives of our boys, and to their families, is certainly profound. Recipients will be forever grateful and that is an achievement of which we as a community can be very proud.
donors give to make a difference - not just for the boys of today, but for the benefit of their sons and subsequent generations who will enter the College. Every boy who has attended BBC, over many decades, has benefited from the generosity of the donors before them and we hope that the tradition of ‘giving back’ continues as we invest in the future of the College. The Foundation allows everyday people, as a collective, to achieve extraordinary endeavours. Giving to BBC through the Foundation is an opportunity to establish something significant for the next generation of boys at the College. While the Foundation will always be grateful for your support, we know our boys will be even more so.
“We give specifically to the Bush Kids’ Bursary because these kids often have very few educational options closer to home, and a school like BBC can provide them with a much wider range of experiences and opportunities; however, life is tough for farming families with the drought, and contributing to the Bush Kids’ Bursary is our way of helping to support these families.” Troy and Karelia Gianduzzo, BBC Parents
CONNECT | 75
Foundation Donor Honour Roll Everything BBC does is enhanced by the remarkable generosity of our Old Boys, current and past parents, staff and friends who invest in our vision. Our Donor Honour Roll celebrates anyone who made a gift or pledged payment in 2018.
BBC OLD BOYS
BBC OLD BOYS
BBC PARENT
BBC FRIEND
1938 - 1950
1971 - 1990
Bill Bray (38) Lee Gregory (43) Andrew Jeays (46) Bruce Slaughter (46) The Late Keith Duncombe (48) Ian Charlton (49) Ken Gold (49) Trevor (49) and Eunice Lloyd David Simpson (50)
Ron (71) and Michelle Barclay Ross Foxton (71) Peter Nimmo (71) Andrew Scott (71) Richard Bell (72) Bruce (73) and Glenys Barclay Andrew Macarthur (75) Gordon Cumming (76) Rich Wuth (76) Sandy Grant (77) Peter (77) and Margaret Jolly Don O'Rorke (77) Andrew Apel (79) Bruce Apel (81) Mitchell Palm (84) Tony (84) and Catherine Yarrow Anthony Jones (86) Peter James (87) Chris Humphrey (90)
James and Jody Austin Andrew and Wendy Barnfield Grahame and Elizabeth Compton Dush and Thilangi Devendra Utkarsh Dubey and Hemi Gour Peter and Kerri Foreman Troy and Karelia Gianduzzo Peter Griffin and Sabine Schleicher Jinhong He and Guizhen Wang Graham and Kristy Heelan Jason and Kylie Kibsgaard Robert and Jacqueline Kift Ning Lao and Ai Hu Michael Lin and Lucy Hsiao Justin and Sue Marshall Scott and Kerrie McMillan Jayson and Dee Medway Jodie-Anne Mouritz Brett Munro and Steph Walker Andrew Nguyen and Anh Dao Jason and Toolah Olsen Greg and Wendy O'Meara Darren Pearson and Fleur Drury Alexander and Rosemary Pollock Gerard and Karyn Reardon Tyron and Lee-Anne Sahlqvist Gavin Scott and Angela Cornford-Scott Kazuhiko and Noriko Tsuruta Laurens and Erica van der Westhuizen Nathan and Joanne Vickers Wayne and Kellie Williams Brad and Joanne Wood
BBC Parents & Friends Association Leith Fulton (The Late Ian Fulton 54) Bruce Graham Graham Shaw Plumbing Interco Equipment Jackie McPherson John North Patricia Risch (The Late Frank Risch 46) Society of St Andrew of Scotland (Queensland) Ltd The Maria Vasas Foundation Tru-Guard Security George Williams
1951 - 1970 Charles Clark (52) Alan Demack (52) John Stewart AM (53) Tom Jack (54) Geoffrey Bayliss AM (54) John Stafford (54) Jim Hutchinson (55) Grahame Hadwen (56) Michael Hudson (56) Norbury Rogers AO (57) and Diana Rogers David Allan (58) John (58) and Francesca Mellor Sandy Hinz (59) Darcy Smith (59) Alister (60) and Julia Rogers Ken Skinner (60) Peter Hooper (61) Earl Larmar (61) Richard (62) and Anne Clarke Win Fowles (62) Don Neill (63) Bruce Robertson (64) Barry Golding (64) Mal Waugh (65) Bob Gotterson QC AO (66) Bruce Baldey (68) Peter Dun (68) Lindsay Ferguson (69) Graham Sagar (69) Stuart Stirling (69) John (70) and Lyndy Heelan
1991 - 2016 Priyanka Jayasuriya (93) Alastair Macarthur (08) Fergus Macarthur (11) Callum Macarthur (12) Julian Wade (12) Jack Farrell (15) Sean Farrell (16) Harry McKenzie (16)
BBC STAFF Paul Brown Natalie Claut Graham Cole Chris Duffy Peter Franks Tiffany Hardy Leanne Lister Bronwyn Mackay-Payne Tracey Maree Carole Thomas
BBC PAST PARENT John and Gwenda Apel Susan Cox Jane Desilets Klawdia Duesing The Jaffe Family Elizabeth Jolly David and Karen Madden The Nicol Foundation Jason and Toolah Olsen Richard and Maureen Pressland Andrej and Judith Skalina
*SOME OF OUR DONORS CHOOSE TO REMAIN ANONYMOUS IN THEIR GIVING; WE ARE ALWAYS GRATEFUL FOR THEIR SUPPORT. EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE ACCURACY HOWEVER IF AN ERROR HAS BEEN MADE, PLEASE CONTACT US AT FOUNDATION@BBC.QLD.EDU.AU
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
76 | CONNECT
MILES FROM HOME MILES HALL WAS BORN IN CANBERRA IN 1974 AND ATTENDED BRISBANE BOYS’ COLLEGE FROM 1987 TO 1991. HIS QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE A DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY FROM THE QUEENSLAND COLLEGE OF ART, GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY (2010), A DIPLÔME NATIONAL SUPÉRIEUR D’EXPRESSION PLASTIQUE (DNSEP) ECOLE SUPÉRIEURE DES BEAUXARTS, MONTPELLIER, FRANCE (2005), A BACHELOR OF FINE ART (PAINTING MAJOR) FROM QUEENSLAND COLLEGE OF ART, GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY (1997) AND A DIPLOMA OF FINE ART (PAINTING AND DRAWING) FROM THE JULIAN ASHTON ART SCHOOL, SYDNEY (1995) WHERE HE WAS THE RECIPIENT OF THE JOHN OLSEN SCHOLARSHIP. AFTER HAVING TAUGHT AT THE QUEENSLAND COLLEGE OF ART FOR EIGHT YEARS, HE IS CURRENTLY A LECTURER IN PAINTING AND DRAWING AT L'ECOLE SUPÉRIEURE DES BEAUX ARTS, MONTPELLIER ESBAMA, FRANCE.
Miles' work is held in the collections of the Australian Government's Artbank; Shakespeare and Company, Paris, France; Polish Art Foundation, Poland; Shandong University, China; Ecole Supérieure des Beaux-Arts, Montpellier, France; the Australian Catholic University and several regional and tertiary collections in Queensland and New South Wales. He has maintained an active artistic presence in France and Australia through regular exhibitions and residencies and has held solo exhibitions in Sydney, Brisbane, Paris and Krakow. Miles’ latest exhibition Open Ground was held in Brisbane at Jan Manton Galleries from 1 August to 1 September 2018.
WHERE DO YOU THINK YOUR LOVE OF ART BEGAN? Although this is hard to determine precisely, I had the chance as a small boy to have a fantastic father who drew and painted. I have a fond memory of him taking me down to do some landscape drawings of Mount Warning one afternoon as a young child. The mix of concentration and discipline combined with the pleasure of observing the visual world appealed to me, as of course, it still does. Like most kids, I always liked to play and art seemed basically a lot of fun! You can invent, take risks, discover, fail, and bring something into the world that didn’t exist before. The notion of play is important, and I like to think art has enabled me to maintain a sense of wonder and awe that can sadly disappear as we get older. Of all the senses, I feel blessed to have been born with a heightened sense of visual curiosity. On their bedroom wall, my parents had a framed reproduction of a landscape by the French romantic painter, Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot. In time, I have come to understand that this painting has had a significant influence on me. I remember becoming lost in the painting as a child - the landscape was a place of reverie, mystery and contemplation where the mind and spirit could wonder, art provided an avenue of escape from the ordinary. Of course, I must not forget my love of drawing! I loved to draw as a kid and drawing has been the backbone of my artistic practice ever since.
CONNECT | 77
HOW DO YOU FEEL YOUR STUDY OF ART AT BBC INFLUENCED YOUR CAREER? It is very simple - great teachers inspire great students. If a subject is taught in a sincere, open, thought-provoking manner, then a student can develop his own sense of autonomy and critical judgment, moving beyond the mediocrity of simply rote learning information or copying. Subsequently, I feel lucky to have studied art at BBC and to have had the support and encouragement that the class and teachers offered me. Access to the art class literally gave me the space to build a framework for my future career.
IMAGE TOP: MILES HALL WITH HIS DAUGHTER, LILA IMAGE ABOVE: INDIGO SCRUB (2018), OIL ON BELGIUM CANVAS, 150CM X 120CM
WHAT DO YOU REMEMBER MOST ABOUT THE ART PROGRAM AT BBC? Without doubt, the best memories of my time at BBC were those spent working in the art room with Adrian Hunter. Going to his class was always a pleasure and provided me with a necessary outlet to express myself as a teenager. I remember being able to work in the art room some lunch breaks, listening to the radio, which felt like such a privilege! It was thanks to the BBC Art Program that I discovered new artists, techniques and possibilities that inspired me to become an artist. The art class was also a place of experimentation, a different kind of experimentation to that which went on over in the biology class, but just as serious and just as consequential.
like as students! Of course, there are some surprises, but overall I really appreciated the way one’s character, upon leaving school, significantly determines the rest of your life! I have kept in touch with several friends from my BBC days, and the connections I have with them were built on shared experiences that remain inalienable.
IF YOU HAD TO SINGLE OUT ONE TIME WHERE YOU FELT MOST SATISFIED, WHAT WOULD IT BE? That’s a very difficult question to respond to. However, the first thing that comes to mind is being included in a large exhibition that toured Australia and having one of my paintings hung between a Sidney Nolan and Brett Whitely painting! Other than this, being offered a job to teach painting at l’Ecole Supérieure des Beaux Arts, Montpellier in France, and to have the opportunity to expand my career in Europe.
IF YOU COULD START YOUR SCHOOLING OVER, WOULD YOU CHANGE ANYTHING ABOUT YOUR TIME AT BBC? DO YOU HAVE ONE I’ve always been drawn to the Greek model PIECE OF ADVICE for the complete character, i.e. achieving a balance between physical and intellectual YOU CAN OFFER TO A strength. While not undermining the role BUDDING ARTIST? dedicated to sport within the GPS community, the cultural and artistic fields need to be as equally valorized.
WHAT VALUE DO YOU PLACE ON REMAINING CONNECTED WITH BBC OLD BOYS? The Old Boy reunions are a fantastic way of keeping tabs on where everyone’s going in their lives. I’ve always been fascinated by the trajectories of my BBC colleagues - to see where they are now knowing what they were
Believe in yourself, and don’t work to simply please others, no matter how difficult this may be. Turn off the computer and spend more time with reality, nature and the tactile world. If you want to create something you need real excitement and emotion, not superficial vision.
WHAT DO YOU SEE YOURSELF DOING FIVE YEARS FROM NOW? Hopefully exactly the same thing - making art!
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
78 | FLASHBACK
FLASHBACK HELEN JACKSON, ARCHIVIST
BBC BAGPIPE CHANTERS TURNED WOOD, DURABLE FENCE POSTS, QUEEN ANNE LEGS AND BBC CHANTERS MAY NOT IMMEDIATELY APPEAR TO BE CONNECTED, HOWEVER, THEY ARE AND THE LINK IS GIDGEE WOOD (ACACIA CAMBAGEI). IMAGE TOP: 1958 REUNION - JEFF WALKER SEATED IMAGE ABOVE EDDIE MCKENZIE IMAGES NEXT PAGE (L-R): GIDGEE TREE, CORY DALE PIPES MADE FROM GIDGEE, BBC PIPE BAND, 1959
This story begins when Charlie Robinson (OB 1962) asked if I knew about BBC chanters being made locally for the reformed Pipe Band back in 1959. My interest was piqued. Charlie then went on to say that the wood used came from the Walker property at Blackall. Jeff Walker was a BBC Boarder from Years 5 to 12 (1951-1958). I immediately began researching Australian wood in Scottish bagpipe chanters and found detailed descriptions and numerous photos of chanters made from the traditional woods of Cocus (Brya ebenus) grown in the Caribbean and Ebony (Diospyros crassiflora) the hardest wood to work, which reputedly dulls tools, and African Blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon). Of these tone woods, Blackwood has been the preferred choice since the 1920s-30s, even though first used in the late 1800s.
FLASHBACK | 79
However, due to poor management of these endangered trees, the wood has been placed on the CITES II Appendix, which limits trade, increases price and effectively makes the wood only procurable with permits. Conversely, the tough, resilient timber of the Gidgee tree is readily available. Keen to learn more about the Walker’s connection to the BBC chanter I contacted the family to discover that Jeff Walker currently resides in America, and has done so for more than 30 years. Luck was smiling when I discovered that Jeff was set to fly from the States to join his Alumnae Year of 1958 for their 60 Year Reunion Lunch in the Boarders’ Dining Room in September. I was privileged to sit next to Jeff at this event and learn more about this intriguing story. The Walkers also owned a home at Southport. It was here that Jeff’s dad struck up a friendship with local furniture maker, Eddie McKenzie. This quietly spoken Scot was earning a living with his staff of four, producing between 1400 and 1500 Queen Anne turned legs a week for period furniture. From a Brisbane warehouse, these softwood, elegant furniture legs were distributed throughout Australia, earning Eddie an enviable reputation as an antique furniture maker. An authority on period furniture, Eddie’s love for working with wood began as a 13 year old. Household goods produced for his parents were generated on Eddie’s first lathe constructed from a treadle sewing machine. As a father of six musical children, Eddie created violins, eventually leading him to shape our early BBC chanters. Taking a trip to Northampton Downs Blackall, Eddie was able to select his wood from the sustainable Acacia. Gidgee trees do not grow tall and straight. However, this beautifully grained dense wood can be used for decorative smaller items to tough termite resistant fence
posts and charcoal. The heat retaining coals of the Gidgee are used in traditional smoking ceremonies to cleanse and purify. The reinvigoration of the BBC Pipe Band occurred in 1959. Two years prior, students Rod Campbell, Graham Roberts, Vic French, Tony McKerrow and Peter Dornan spent time practising on chanters and pipes in preparation for the band’s reintroduction. This alternate Friday afternoon session occurred concurrently while 260 cadets were completing their marching drills. As Roger McPhee explained in his book, Honour Tradition Service, the person called upon to tutor eight students was ‘Pop’ Mackay, who ran the College Tuckshop. The Headmaster, Mr Alf Birtles, asked ‘Pop’, a bagpipe playing Scotsman, to undertake the task. From these tentative beginnings the Pipe Band has matured and flourished over 60 years to attain its treasured iconic status within the College and wider Brisbane community. Similar to the growth of the BBC Pipe Band, Gidgee is a slow growing wood that demands a tenacious yet patient craftsman to expose its fine grained beauty, as evident in the striking pipes made by Brisbane creator, Cory Dale. Local bagpipe manufacturer, Martin Macbeth, suggests that BBC pipes are predominantly made from African Blackwood. “Gidgee tends to crack more easily and it doesn’t have they do not have mirror polish finish of African Blackwood, so for this purpose it is far superior in every way,” said Martin. Notwithstanding whether our pipes were fashioned from traditional or experimental Australian wood, this interesting story of our early Pipe Band instruments, made from Gidgee sourced from the Walker's Blackall property and fashioned by Eddie McKenzie in his Southport furniture shed, is a fascinating snippet in our archival history.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2018
Boys are natural storytellers. We simply help them master the art of effective communication. Our boys are the protagonists in their own epic tales. At Brisbane Boys’ College, we encourage them to become effective communicators and masterful storytellers. Imagine the cumulative benefit of public speaking and boy-centric literacy programs which start in our Junior School and continue through Middle and Senior School. It is programs like these - together with Debating, Theatre, and presenting to a panel of experts at the Biology Symposium - which prepare our boys for a future in law, business strategy or question time. Because if they’re able to master the science of communication, we know it will serve them well for the next chapter of their lives.
www.bbc.qld.edu.au