semester one 2024
What HVGS Means to Me Meet Shannon O’Dwyer
A New Vision For Experiential Learning at HVGS Modern Masterpieces in Visual Arts Around The Grounds
A World of Pure Imagination Secrets of the Stage
HVGS Symphony Orchestra Concert 2024 Learning Beyond the Classroom in Finland! Campbells Phillippines Adventure
Kassidy Waters Visits HVGS Meet
“Now more than ever” is the 2023 Reconciliation Week Theme. But what does it mean for us as a community? What does it mean to create that sense of urgency that now, more than ever, reconciliation is what Australia needs? Likewise, what can we do as a school to fulfil this promise: to work harder towards reconciliation than we may have done before?
The most recent Mapping Social Cohesion Report (2023) provides a summary of survey data that measures the sense of connectedness and belonging within Australian society. The conclusion to this report states:
“WehaveemergedfromtheVoicereferendumsomewhat divided and uncertain as to where to next for reconciliation. ThepoliticaldivideovertheVoicealsoappearstoreflectand maybehelpingtoamplifypolarisationaroundattitudesto governmentandsociety.”(97)
Polarisation occurs when we get locked into one way of thinking in opposition to another way of thinking. It is when we struggle to open our hearts and minds to alternative perspectives. We are locked, and when we can’t find a middle ground, we often become combative in defence of our own positions.
By contrast, reconciliation is about finding the middle way – bringing voices and hearts together – to hear each other, to grapple with our differences and to find a way to walk together towards shared understanding, peace, greater unity and belonging.
Last year I read TheLastDaughter, Brenda Mathew’s superb book. While we are similar in age and both have many
siblings, my life journey has been very, very different. I was able to stay and grow up with my family – all my siblings and my parents – unlike Brenda who was taken away from two families. Listening to Brenda’s story is important for all of us as Brenda invites us into her healing process with such generosity. Brenda’s story involves sharing grief and joy and is an invitation to learn from the mistakes of the past and to work together to build a better, brighter future for everyone.
By opening our hearts and listening to Brenda’s story, we are cultivating compassion and peace. At the heart of her story is the importance of embracing wisdom, compassion and healing through listening and storytelling. It is a story of coming together and of finding the ways in which we are connected to each other and can care for each other. It is also about doing this while embracing and celebrating what makes us different.
As we look to our future as a school community, we also look to embrace our shared humanity and to care for each other no matter who we are, or how different we are from each other. Brenda invites us to take a first step which is to tell our own stories and then create space to hear those of others.
Reconciliation and healing are on the horizon, but it is a work in progress and perhaps a never-ending one. Now more than ever we need to cultivate peace and compassion – we need to stay open to hearing and walking with those who are different to ourselves so we can grow together, heal together, laugh together and embrace our own stories as well as those of others.
Experiencing belonging – knowing where and with whom you belong – is integral to human existence. Children belong to diverse families, neighbourhoods, local and global communities. Belonging acknowledges children’s interdependence with others and the basis of relationships in defining identities. In early childhood, and throughout life, trusting relationships and affirming experiences are crucial to a sense of belonging.
Belonging is central to being and becoming in that it shapes who children are and who they can become.
In the first week of Term 1, our wonderful ELC welcomed new students to, along with those students who attended last year. Many of the children were excited, and proud to show their uniform to both their educators and peers.
“Everything is special at HVGS” Bowie
This brought up an opportunity to talk about the School’s emblem that is embroidered on the uniform. Miss McLennan took this opportunity by showing individual students an image of the School’s emblem. Immediately all the students recognised that it represented HVGS. It was wonderful to hear that many of our youngest learners are developing a strong sense of inclusion and belonging at such a young age in our community.
Activities like this in the ELC illustrate how early childhood experiences, relationships, and symbols (like the school emblem) contribute to a child’s sense of belonging, identity, and community. This foundational sense of belonging is crucial for their personal development and wellbeing.
Here’s what students said about belonging at HVGS:
“There are games, toys, friends and food”
William D
“It is HVGS. You can learn things and have lots of fun. It has lots of things to do”
Olivia
“It is my new school” Sammy
“Our school” Harry
“If you are crying, your teachers will cuddle you and make you feel be er” Sofia
“I love playing with Sammy” Theo
“I just love it” Sophie
“It is about learning, playing, finding new friends and having fun. Also, the first day is fun”
Audrey
“This is me! It is my badge. My Mummy bought it. I wanted to come here and now I am here. I love playing and having fun here”
Michael
“You can play with the paint and do painting” Nandi “I like to play outside with the playdough” Nandi
Deputy Principal and Head of Junior School
Meet Shannon O’Dwyer, our new Deputy Principal and Head of Junior School at HVGS. Originally from Brisbane, with an academic journey that winds through Newcastle University and stretches across continents, Ms O’Dwyer brings a wealth of experience to her role.
Shannon also works for the International Baccalaureate (IB), training teachers and evaluating schools. In her spare time she loves to read crime and mystery novels, and she enjoys listening to news podcasts daily. Her favourite place is the ocean and feels her happiest when she is swimming in salt water, looking up at the vast blue sky.
When asked about what she has loved about working at HVGS, Shannon says,
“What’s not to love?! I’m utterly inspired by the talent and professionalism of the Junior School teachers. I’m thrilled by the curiosity, joy, and thinking skills of our students. Every week, students bounce into the office to share ideas, questions, plans and initiatives! I love the strength and engagement of our parent community. And I’m grateful to work across the whole school (with Mrs Bilton-Smith in the ELC and Mr Robinson in the Senior School).”
The best part, however? Interacting with students! From the first conversation of the day, Shannon never knows what she will learn. She might hear an update on a loose tooth. She might be persuaded to save an endangered species. She might learn about how matter exists in the Universe. Students fill the day with wonder and joy. Her second favourite part of the job is working with Miss Smith, Mrs Vesper and Ms Pearson – the Junior School Leadership Team. At the end of the school day, they all gather for a good dose of laughter, reflection, problem-solving and planning. Then, they’re ready to start anew tomorrow!
Shannon’s educational philosophy:
“Who dares to teach must never cease to learn.” - John Cotton Dana
I believe that every student is a capable, curious child, who is hard-wired to seek and love learning. Each child arrives at school with the capacity to pose questions, make discoveries and pursue passions. It is the role of the teacher to tend to these precious seeds of wonder, so they blossom into rich, relevant learning. This is the Art and Science of teaching. It is the careful balance of: explicit instruction and guided inquiry, providing scaffolding and fostering independence, asking probing questions and observing errors, facilitating success and allowing some frustration. In a personalised, intentionally differentiated environment, each child grows into a more confident, capable, committed student of life.
I believe in a concept-driven curriculum, in which students are not only taught knowledge and skills in isolation, but also explore broad ideas that transcend disciplines, to develop enduring understandings of self and the world. Daily learning should be connected, challenging, and relevant. In this way, students develop deep understandings; they may know a little less of the “what” (i.e. temporary, Google-able, facts), but a lot more of the “how”, “why” and “so what?”. Armed with conceptual understandings, students are well-equipped to face an ever-changing world, in which insight, innovation and problem-solving are essential capabilities.
I believe that “letting go” is the greatest challenge for expert educators. Relinquishing power unleashes students’ critical and creative thinking. Honouring student agency fosters risk-taking and resilience. I must be prepared to follow my students down the rabbit-hole of inquiry. In these moments, we unite as one community of learners - teacher and students - on an exciting journey of discovery. In these moments, we are all learners, and school is our intellectual playground. Together, we learn about ourselves, each other, and the world. And, through reflective practice, I hope to offer my students a better teacher tomorrow, than they had today. For “those who dare to teach, must never cease to learn”.
In 2023, HVGS unveiled a new vision for Experiential Learning. Before delving into its specifics, it’s important to first understand what Experiential Learning is and how we apply it at HVGS.
Experiential learning is an educational approach where students engage in hands-on, real-world experiences to learn concepts and skills. This method emphasises active participation to foster deeper understanding. By connecting theory with practice, experiential learning makes education dynamic and relevant.
Our diverse Experiential Learning opportunities span the HVGS environment, excursions, incursions, the Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) program, and international trips. The natural setting of our campus, including gardens, wetlands, and a rowing facility, enables dynamic outdoor learning. Research confirms that these experiences enhance academic outcomes and boost social, emotional, and attention skills.
The EOTC program promotes active lifestyles, civic engagement, and environmental appreciation through its pillars: Challenge, Service, Leadership, and Connection. These pillars foster resilience, social responsibility, leadership skills, and environmental connectivity.
Year 10 Visual Arts students have been investigating Modern Art. The students have researched the historical events leading to the inception of Modern Art and its many subgenres. These insights have significantly influenced and enriched their artistic practice. In a series of art studies, students captured the stylistic qualities, paint application techniques, and subject matter of key artists and movements.
Visual Arts is an essential part of the curriculum. It nurtures creativity, emotional expression, and critical thinking in students, all positive qualities for any learner. Through Visual Arts, students learn visual literacy,
communication skills, problem-solving, and self-discipline, while exploring their personal and social identities. In society, Visual Arts enhances the quality of life and builds community by bringing people together through shared experiences. It can raise awareness about social issues and inspire action, as well as playing a crucial role in fostering empathy. It enhances fine motor skills, fosters cultural awareness, and creates interdisciplinary connections, enriching the overall educational experience.
Take a look at some of the incredible creations our artists have worked on!
Harmony Day celebrates Australia’s rich cultural diversity. It’s about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. This year, Harmony Day was a perfect example of that, embracing what we have in common. Our students wore the colour orange and donated a gold supporting World Vision, a charity selected by the Senior School Leadership Team. Students shared their traditional dress and even some favourite dishes – demonstrating the message that everyone belongs.
Scan the QR Code to see how we celebrated Harmony Day in the Junior School!
Scan the QR Code to see how we celebrated Harmony Day in the Senior School!
Fact
Harmony Day is celebrated with the colour orange because it symbolises social communication and meaningful conversations, as well as mutual respect and freedom of ideas in society.
The Da Vinci Decathlon is an academic competition where students compete in challenges across 10 disciplinesengineering, mathematics, code breaking, science, English, ideation, creative producers, cartography, legacy, art and poetry.
Our capable Year 5 and 6 students have been training to compete in the academic competition against many other schools. After a long day of challenge, problem-solving and higher-order thinking, the amazing results came in:
Code-breaking – 1st Place
Mathematics – 1st Place
Cartography – 1st Place
English – 2nd Place
Art & Poetry – 2nd Place
Creative Producers – 3rd Place
The Year 5 Team also received the ‘Spirit of Da Vinci’ Award in recognition of their collaboration, positivity, and integrity throughout the competition.
In January, Year 8 student Lachlan Sheldon was named Maitland’s Young Citizen of The Year!
Lachlan was nominated by Maitland’s 2023 Local Woman of the Year Lyn Dark for his work with the Susan Roskell Toy and Gift Drive. Lyn said, ‘young people like Lachlan [are] an inspiration to all of us, and we know he will continue to help others in the future.’
Lachlan has been a vital part of the Toy Drive since its inception in 2016, when he was just six years old. His responsibilities have included:
• Helping his parents sort toys Removing price tags from toys
Delivering toys
• Assisting community partners with gift wrapping and carrying gifts to cars for mothers
• Bagging lollies for disadvantaged children
• Speaking to the media from a child’s perspective
For the past seven years, Lachlan and his dad, Todd have garnered support from the Hunter Valley Grammar Junior School. His efforts included presenting to his peers about the importance of the drive and participating in TV interviews with Sunrise and ABC Midday National News.
Lachlan also sells raffle tickets during fundraising events and donates his own money to buy toys and gifts. Through his rugby involvement, he has helped raise nearly $10,000 for the
the significant challenge of assisting in his Nanny Susan’s end-of-life care, providing her with comfort, reading to her, and showing love and affection.
Lachlan has received several accolades for his community service, demonstrating tremendous community spirit, and has certainly earned his place as the Maitland Citizen of the Year.
This semester at HVGS was truly a scrumdidilyumptious affair, with the talented minds in the Drama department putting on an unforgettable production of CharlieandtheChocolateFactory! With THREE sold out performances, the crowds brought the laughter and awe as they watched the incredible cast and crew put together one of the most memorable HVGS productions yet. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory whisked the audience away on a journey filled with golden tickets, OompaLoompas and everlasting gobstoppers.
The talented cast and crew consisted of Senior students and staff, with HVGS Alumni Hamish Coates (2023) making a special return to the HVGS stage to play the role of Mr. Beauregard. Coming back and performing for the HVGS community was a very fast “yes!” for Hamish.
“I was really keen to be a part of the show. When Ms Rohr asks you for help, you jump at the chance! I always know it’s going to be fun and you’re going to learn something new.”
Being a part of a drama production at HVGS is a fun and enriching experience for both staff and students. It enhances their learning by fostering creativity, teamwork, and problemsolving skills. The collaborative effort required to bring such a spectacular performance such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to life not only creates lasting memories but also cultivates a strong sense of community and school spirit.
Being in a production doesn’t mean you have to be on stage acting or shining in the spotlight. There are countless opportunities behind the scenes where creativity and coordination play vital roles. Flynn, a Year 10 student who has a passion for creating backstage magic and coordinating amongst the chaos, takes us behind the scenes of “Charlie andtheChocolateFactory” and spills the secrets about the work that has gone into the mammoth production.
Tell us about your role as the Backstage Coordinator for Charlie and The Chocolate Factory? What are your main responsibilities?
As the Backstage Coordinator, I ensure everything runs smoothly by working with Director Jennie Rohr and the backstage team leaders. I attend rehearsals, meetings, and interact with HVGS staff and students. My tasks range from sourcing costumes to organizing promotional events.
How did you get involved in backstage work?
I’ve loved drama since kindergarten and started school productions in Year 4. Acting in various shows made me appreciate the backstage effort. Participating in different backstage activities made me fall in love with the process. Ms. Rohr (Head of Drama) has taught me a lot and helped me grow into this role.
As well as the short series ‘The Real Show’, you’re working on a video documenting the behind-the-scenes process. What inspired you to start this project, and what do you hope to achieve with it?
“The Real Show” gives a glimpse into pre-show excitement. Our documentary captures the entire process since the
musical’s announcement, including challenges and successes. It’s in editing now and will be screened later this year, aiming to showcase the reality of production life and preserve the musical’s memories.
Marketing is a crucial part of any production. What strategies did you use in promoting the show?
Our nine-person promotion team brainstormed ideas aligning with the musical’s brand. We created a short series, collaborated on a Roald Dahl book display, involved Year 7 English teachers with golden tickets, partnered with Treetops Restaurant for a themed dessert, and used QR-coded posters. Our School’s marketing team also provided advice and support.
What skills have you developed through your role that you believe will benefit you in the future?
I’ve gained valuable experience, sharpening my communication and collaboration skills, and understanding different perspectives. These skills will benefit me in life and my career.
What advice would you give to other students who are interested in getting involved in backstage work in HVGS productions?
Do it! Being proactive, passionate, and engaged will take you far. You’ll meet many new people and always learn something new. Look out for our short documentary release!
SCAN THE QR CODE TO READ MORE OF FLYNN’S INTERVIEW
2024 saw the return of the HVGS Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Wind Ensemble and HVGS Chorus to the beautified Latter Hall Stage for two massive nights of challenging, engaging and entertaining musical performance. From the complexity and challenge of “Brahm’s Symphony No.1” to the captivating “SkyFall Theme” from James Bond, the drama of the “Carmen Overture” and “Habanera”, to the excitement and engagement of excerpts from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” through to the entertaining melodies of the Symphonic Wind Ensemble. Over 80 HVGS students presented a concert for everyone.
The HVGS Symphonic Program is not just a part of the curriculum, but rather a unique learning experience that walks beside it in a constant conversation. It is a music classroom that goes beyond what even the “best” classroom can offer, developing resilience, communication, collaboration, cognitive stretch, higher knowledge, and deep learning, all encased in an environment of respect. As the students navigate the journey through the complexity of the musical score, they exercise their personal agency, interpreting the music, choosing the repertoire, and preparing themselves for true musical independence.
The students, with their unwavering dedication and passion, were joined by guest professional musicians to inspire and motivate, along with Alumni Alexandra Boyling. All the participating students, with their outstanding commitment and their reimagining of the future, deserve our heartfelt congratulations.
Hamish C from Year 8 has taken on a new way of learning - in Finland! With an opportunity to study abroad and play Hockey for the ‘Puck Tigers’, his time in Finland has been transformative, sparking a sense of adventure and newfound independence. From grocery shopping to exploring the city, Hamish is thriving in a whole new environment.
Hamish is excelling at his international school; in English they have studied “Lord of the Flies.” In History, he wrote an impressive piece on the Spinning Jenny and has explored Finnish History and the evolution of Europe. Geography lessons have him plotting coordinates of European countries and exploring the world atlas. Biology classes cover the Baltic Sea, its brackish nature and the pollution issues. His friends and fellow students hail from various countries including Finland, Germany, Russia, China, Pakistan, America, Canada, Spain, and France. In addition to his regular studies, Hamish has learned Swedish and Finnish as compulsory languages and enjoys practicing them daily. The teachers have been very impressed with how happily he has integrated into the school environment.
On the Hockey front, Hamish joined a fantastic club and team called ‘Kiekko Tiikerit’ (Puck Tigers), He even participated in several tournaments across Finland and Sweden, including one held in an old underground nuclear bunker in Turku. His family has been able to watch his televised games from Australia.
The Finnish culture has been incredibly immersive for Hamish, he likes to take weekly photos of a particular spot to document the changing seasons. With dramatic differences between Autumn and Winter. He has visited Estonia and Sweden, even braving the traditional hot saunas followed by icy dips!
Despite the occasional bout of homesickness, Hamish is absolutely loving his experience. He regularly sends his family updates with the chilly temperatures, sometimes heading to school in -17 degree Celsius weather.
Hamish is due to return to HVGS for Term 3, with staff and students eagerly awaiting the chance to hear all about his adventures in Finland. Additionally, Hamish has been selected for the U15 state Hockey team, with the state competition taking place in Newcastle in July. His journey has not only made his family proud but has also prepared him for future challenges with newfound confidence and independence.
This story takes us over to the Philippines, where young HVGS student Campbell S (Year 4) has been making waves in the community. In Term 2, Campbell spent two huge weeks touring the county representing Australia in the U10 boys Futsal team.
Campbell has been playing representative soccer and futsal for a number for years now, and was offered an opportunity to trial (and was ultimately selected) to represent Northern NSW at the National Futsal Championships in Brisbane in September of 2023. During the championships, Campbell was identified by National selectors for the Australian Representative Futsul team in 2024.
A hard-fought grand finals spot was won, and the team came runners up in a tournament seeing Australia play the top teams across the Philippines.
Part of the tour involved charitable work with the children living in the Mountains of Puerto Galera. Campbell and his generous family asked the HVGS community for donations of any second hand, but good quality clothing, shoes and football gear for these children. There was an arrangement with the airline Campbell’s family flew with for extra baggage allowance to accommodate this, and boy, did they need it! The HVGS community donated an enormous amount of clothing and shoes – providing two full suitcases to give to them. Campbell and his family handed these out in person to the children, and they were thrilled. One of the purposes of this charitable endeavour is to bring peace via football to communities still in conflict. There is still considerable political stress in some of these regions, and an organisation called ‘Football for Peace’ is trying to resolve some of these conflicts through non-violent means.
Further, Campbell’s team travelled to Tuloy in Sa Bon Bosco - an orphanage which adopts abandoned street children and gives them a second chance at life. These children are amazing in their resilience and determination to forge a better life for themselves. Campbell played two “friendly” (but competitive) games against a group of these boys, and they were formidable. The Aussie boys were unable to beat them. They told Campbell’s family that they train for 4 hours a day after their study and prayer. Every day. After the game, Campbell and his family all reflected on what hard work can produce - and not an ipad, phone or television between them. Some of these inspiring boys have gone on to become professional soccer players or leaders in business. It was one of the most eye-opening days for Campbell.
“Being able to say that he represented his country at the age of 9 is a moment in time that will be with us forever.”
Campbell has been volunteering within the sporting arena since he was 3 - from helping out at Parkrun on a Saturday, to refereeing soccer games at School.
He understands that community sport is often run and managed by parents and other volunteers, and everyone needs to chip in to make it work. Being able to give clothing and shoes to children in need in other country was a different level of charitable work however, and really gave Campbell a level of perspective he would not otherwise have. Gratitude has a whole new meaning now.
Campbell’s Mum, Rebecca proudly says, “Being able to say that he represented his country at the age of 9 is a moment in time that will be with us forever. Campbell has a cheer squad behind him that will shout themselves hoarse, jump up and down until their knees buckle, and bear hug him at the finish line or the final whistle - every single time.”
Bangarra Dance Theatre is a company of professional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performers. As one of Australia’s leading performing arts companies, they share their culture with communities and audiences across Australia and the world. HVGS was lucky to have Bangarra lead dancer and Wonnarua woman Kassidy Waters visit, to share her journey, her culture and what it takes to be an elite athlete.
Kassidy worked with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and our friends from St Philips Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG).as part of HVGS’ Cultural Development Program, sharing storytelling through movement and dance.
Kassidy then worked with Our Year 6 cohort and our ELC students, teaching them a range of dances from the Torres Strait and even a special dance used in Bangarra’s Yuldea show. Students all had a great time and learnt valuable cultural knowledge.
At HVGS we value cultural development. Not everyone is lucky enough to regularly engage with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander culture, so opportunities like this help
our staff
Tell us a bit about yourself?
develop curiosity, deepen understanding and a connection to our 60000+ year history. Dance is a form of expression and in culture, a way of sharing story. The dances and the stories within are passed down from generation to generation. But it goes deeper. When we dance the emu for instance, we become the emu. We channel our ancestors who dance the story alongside us. We connect into something bigger than just us. Experiences like this allow the younger ones to feel that same power and connection.
We, Bangarra, are ignited by our obligation to Country and Community, to nurture the transmission of Story, knowledges, history and experiences of our First Peoples to effect change and create lasting impact.
“The fire ignites us, the spear directs us, the digging stick grounds us, a coolamon of knowledge is passed and compels us to aspire to our cultural obligation to Community and Country.”
I am a passionate and fun person who loves life! I also love a challenge and will never say no to new opportunities, whether that be in my personal or professional life. I enjoy travelling and exploring new places, spending time with friends and family, listening to music and a bit of yoga/pilates when I get the time. I have two gorgeous kids that keep me entertained every single day. On the weekend you will find me enjoying a good brunch or taking my two mini daschunds for a walk.
What is your role here at HVGS?
I am the Customer Service and Administration Officer. I have been working in customer service roles in the medical field for 22 years and I am now so excited to be working in education with children and their families.
I love helping people and am passionate about providing an exceptional experience for all those I interact with. I love to get to know people and love the uniqueness that everyone has to offer.
What have you loved about working at HVGS?
There are so many. I love the variety of my days, and the different challenges I’m faced with. I am loving getting to know the families, the children and my colleagues. The support from everyone since I started has been amazing.
I also love turning up to work every day to the beautiful space, well kept grounds and friendly faces around every corner.
The HVGS Equestrian Team has demonstrated their prowess at the North West Equestrian Expo held in Coonabarabran. This annual event, hailed as Australia’s largest high school equestrian competition, attracted over 700 students from 94 schools across the nation for five days of intense competition and camaraderie.
Nine skilled riders from HVGS participated in a multitude of events ranging from Hacking to Dressage, showcasing their dedication and love for their sport. Each event demanded precision, athleticism, and a deep connection between rider and horse—a testament to the team’s commitment to excellence.
Among the standout performances, Claudia S, (Year 11), clinched the titles of Champion Show Rider (16 Years) and Champion Medium Dressage, while also securing impressive placements in Combined Training and Elementary Dressage Freestyle.
Isabella H, (Year 11), earned recognition as Reserve Champion in 80cm Showjumping and excelled in several Combined Training categories, highlighting her versatility and skill.
Isabella and Claudia, both seasoned competitors with five years on the team, emphasised the unique appeal of the North West Equestrian Expo.
“By competing at these team events, it allows the Equestrian Team to further bond, develop our competition riding skills, and build a closer connection as a team. If there are any students out there who have not yet joined the HVGS Equestrian team, we highly recommend joining as it is a wonderful team that creates memories and lifelong friendships.” Said the girls.
Claudia S (Year 11)
• Champion Show Rider 16 Years
• Champion Medium Dressage
• 2nd Combined Training 65cm
• 6th Elementary Dressage Freestyle
Isabella H (Year 11)
• Reserve Champion 80cm Showjumping
• 2nd 80cm Combined Training 2nd Combined Training 80cm
• 9th Pentathalon, senior girls
Annabel C (Year 10)
• 10th Combined Training 45cm
Mitchell R (Year 9)
• 4th Two Phase Showjumping 65cm
• 5th One Day Event EVA 65-1
• Equal 7th Pentathlon, senior boys
Charlotte S (Year 9)
• 6th Combined Training 80cm
Olivia L (Year 9)
• 2nd A2 65cm Showjumping
• 3rd Time Trial
• 7th One Day Event 65 dev 3
Eliza B (Year 9)
• 2nd Two Phase Showjumping 65cm 7th ev Dev 2
• 7th One Day Event 65
• Top 10 in Working Horse Challenge
Paloma S (Year 8)
• 3rd Overall for Dressage prelim div 1
• 3rd Dressage prelim 1.2 div 1
• 5th Combined Training 1B div 2
Josephine P (Year 7) 2nd Combined Training 45
• 3rd Keyhole 12yo
• 4th Working Horse Challenge 12yo 5th Time Trial 12yo
This Semester at HVGS was well and truly a busy one, with the Swimming Carnival, Cross Country Carnival & Athletics Carnival.
The days were filled with house spirit, the atmosphere electric as students (and sometimes staff!) took to the water, the fields or the stands to cheer each other on.
Senior School Swimming Carnival – Barrington
Junior School Swimming Carnival – Barringon
Senior School Cross Country – Barrington
Junior School Cross Country – Barrington
Senior School Athletics Carnival – Barrington
Junior School Athletics Carnival – Barrington
Embarking on a journey that transcends local pitches and dives into the international arena, HVGS 2023 alumni Ryan Reid shares his exhilaration at being chosen as the goalkeeper for the U19s Sydney All-Stars in the prestigious Algarve Cup Tournament in Portugal. Hailing from Newcastle and currently playing for Newcastle Olympic U18s, Ryan sheds light on the positive turn of events that led to his selection just as the local NPL season in Newcastle was winding down.
Reflecting on how it felt to be selected, Ryan said, “Good and proud! Goalkeeper is a limited position, and you have a lot of very tough competition all wanting that one spot within each team. It was a real positive to find out I had been selected from Newcastle in a Sydney based team just as our NPL season was finishing – I currently play for Newcastle Olympic U18s.”
“I had to commit to team training sessions in Sydney multiple times each week for a couple of months leading up to the trip, plus additional one-on-one Keeper training sessions twice each week in Newcastle and a daily gym program. Recovery and preparation have also been very important to avoid fatigue and prevent injury. Routine and commitment are essential to prep.”
Ryan felt supported by HVGS in his professional sporting career, noting, “I have played many different team sports over the years at HVGS (Basketball, Volleyball, Cricket, Rugby, Soccer) which have helped develop my team building, leadership skills, communication skills, confidence and courage. We have won games and lost games, and I learned something from each one. At HVGS we are also lucky to have a strength & conditioning coach who helped to develop part of my gym program.”
Lisa Thomas, (Class of 2005), has carved a unique path since her graduation. After bidding farewell to HVGS, Lisa pursued her passion for education by enrolling at Newcastle University where she embarked on a journey to become a primary school teacher. Over the years, Lisa has shared her knowledge and enthusiasm with students at schools both in the Hunter Valley and Sydney. She imparts her wisdom and guidance to the young minds at Rutherford Public School. In addition to her career, Lisa has also embraced the joys of married life and motherhood, welcoming a daughter into her loving family.
Lisa’s passion lies in the creative and performing arts. She actively participates in various local musical groups and regularly takes the stage as part of bands, orchestras, and theatrical performances throughout the region. She believes that learning to play an instrument and participating in performance groups promote vital skills such as resilience, teamwork, and commitment.
Reflecting on her time at HVGS, Lisa cherishes the lesson of following one’s interests and appreciating the diverse school life experience. She fondly recalls her involvement in a multitude of creative and sporting opportunities throughout her HVGS journey. Among her achievements, Lisa proudly mentions being a founding member of the stage band, participating in various productions (both on stage and behind the scenes), and being a dedicated member of the rowing squad.
