Fairholme Focus Winter 2010

f cus ON FAIRHOLME

The official newsletter containing highlights and happenings from Fairholme College, Tooowomba

Junior Library Lift-off!

Page 3 All about the Arts Page 12 Service with a Smile Page 15 Sports Scene Page 18-23 FOGA Favourites Page 24-31

Winter 2010

from the chairman I find the current discourse, mostly in the media, about the Federal Government’s Building the Education Revolution stimulus funding for building projects in junior schools across the country somewhat interesting. Not from the perspective of whether or not you support the ideals of the funding package, but more in relation to the delivery and cost of the projects, especially in the southern states.

In our case, this funding provided the College with a fantastic opportunity to build a library facility for our Junior School. The project has proceeded very smoothly, with the construction of the building expected to be completed in June. This is entirely due our prompt action in seeking funding in the ‘first round’, and to the professional way our architects (PW Architects), builders (McNab Constructions), associated consultants and college staff have managed and carried out this project.

Which brings me back to my initial comments – while others may have had concerns about the cost of projects, I believe the College will have a well designed and constructed facility, at an appropriate cost that is value for money, when it is completed and opened later this year.

While we’re talking about projects, I would encourage you all to take an interest in the Fairholme Foundation and the opportunities it affords.

The Foundation was established in 1989 to encourage and foster the interest and financial support of the extended College community to preserve, improve and develop the services, property and facilities of the College.

By contributing to the Foundation you too can become a member of this vital arm of the College, providing for its future needs. Past students, parents and friends of the College are especially encouraged to seek membership. The Foundation also aims to raise funds through events such as the recent and wonderful ‘Flavours of the Stage’ function.

Next financial year, the Foundation will be seeking donations towards a number of projects including airconditioning of the Assembly Hall, L Block Assembly refurbishment, Boarding House entrance and bathrooms refurbishment and resurfacing of the Gymnasium floor.

So, as we enjoy the benefits of a new junior library, let’s also look forward to enhancing these existing facilities and the resulting improvements to the learning environment of our students, both now and in the future. Remember, all gifts of $2 or more are tax deductible.

Mr Ian Andersen Chairman

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FAITH in her FUTURE

from the principal

words have weight I have a clear recollection as a beginning teacher of some sage advice given to me by my principal: “You can’t teach a student well, if you don’t know what’s in their lunch box.” As a relatively new teacher I was intrigued by his statement and his words have resonated in my memory often since that day. Once I had made the connection that his statement was metaphoric and not to be interpreted literally, of course! If we don’t know the ‘things’ our girls bring to the classroom, or the boarding house, if we don’t know them as people then we cannot hope to guide them as effectively along appropriate pathways. Girls who are ‘out of relationship’ with their peers, their teachers and their families will not achieve at their potential. They are more likely to make poor choices, feel disillusioned and to lose their way; it is as simple and as complex as that.

Perhaps the lunchbox metaphor was somehow relevant to our decision to implement a trial Year 12 Mentoring program in 2009 and to extend this to all Year 12 girls in 2010. Our Head of Teaching and Learning, Mr Stewart Peacock, has led the program which gives each Year 12 girl the opportunity to be linked with a teacher of her choice – one who will meet with his or her student regularly throughout the school year. The program is in its infancy but the philosophy and the intent that underpin the program have enormous merit.

Fundamentally the program is about deepening

connections, walking with each student as she steps the difficult transition between secondary school and the life beyond. Hopefully it is also about supporting persistence, goal-setting and perspective.

Staff members and students have been given the choice of opting in to the program; hence those who are involved already share common ground – an interest in connecting beyond the formal classroom. Having been involved last year and again this year I can only commend the value of the program and the possibilities that exist from it. It is not simply about caring; it is also about raising the bar of expectation, opening possibilities and listening. Ben Levin, the Canada Research Chair in Education Leadership and Policy at the University of Toronto, Canada, supports the notion of such an approach. His research points to the significance of some 20 minute conversations between teachers and students that have literally provided the turning point for life change.

Words do have weight; we thus need to be mindful of their delivery and our choice.

There are of course other formal and informal events that occur within the life of the school that provide opportunities for positive connections. School camps, for example, provide the perfect opportunity for teachers and students to ‘share lunch boxes’.

Some of the greatest insights into the worlds of our students are revealed outside of the classroom;

from the foundation

on school camps, during Pastoral Care Group time, Extra Help sessions, on the sporting field, in rehearsals for musical performances, travelling together on overseas trips... the list is endless. As teachers and as boarding supervisors we do have a responsibility to know the girls in our ‘classrooms’ and in our care. When we know our students beyond formal classroom interactions we have much greater opportunity to engage them in learning at a level of relevance to them.

Much of our work at Fairholme College occurs at this level and I believe it is a strength of our school; one that sets us apart as a place where students care about learning because they learn from teachers who care about them ... as well as the contents of their metaphoric lunch boxes! Words spoken and words listened to carefully and respectfully can have enormous importance in our lives. I thank a previous principal of mine for his sage advice in my first weeks as a teacher; his words continue to have weight.

Mrs Linda Evans Principal

FLAVOURS of the STAGE tantalise taste buds!

Talented Fairholme ‘Old Girls’ presented a ‘feast’ of talent for the audience attending the Fairholme Foundation’s fundraiser of the year.

Brisbane divas, local dancers, sensational singers and enigmatic ensembles formed part of the ‘menu’ on offer at the Fairholme Foundation’s “FLAVOURS of the STAGE” premier event on Saturday 10 April 2010.

Ably led by well- known local compere Mr Robert Ketton, stars shone as outstanding performers took to the stage. Toowoomba School of Dance (Principal Mrs Dale Coles (Hart) attended Fairholme 1954-64) performed the opening act, followed by outstanding vocalist Mary TempleSmith (1993-1998). Samantha Freeman (Fitzgerald) (1987-91) delivered a moving dramatic monologue, Madeleine Page (1991-94) wowed the audience with brilliantly written music and lyrics, and Fairholme’s answer to the Bella Voce Ensemble (Georgina Hopson, Jennifer Horn, Georgina Horn, Kaitlyn McCallum, Brydie McKay, Laura McKay, Jacueline Storey, Hannah Tait, Christina Varidel, and Fiona White) were a class act! Fiona White presented a magnificent section of Negro spirituals and performed a fabulous number from ‘Bugsy Mallone’ with former school friend Sam Fitzgerald. The ‘Icing on the Cake’ of course was none other than rising star Ms Jade Moffatt. This award winning MezzoSoprano returned to the stage of her favourite Alma Mater to delight audiences with pieces from ‘Le Spectre de la Rose’ by Berlioz and ‘Disprezzata Regina’ by Monteverdi.

A huge round of applause must also go to Mr Lance Clarke who accompanied the girls beautifully on the piano for the evening.

Foundation committee members take this opportunity to thank all those who attended, supported and donated toward this fundraiser to assist with the ongoing refurbishment of the College Assembly Hall.

FOCUS on Fairholme Winter 2010

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Pirates,

progress &

The annual Junior School Musical was once again a sensational production with The Pirate Adventure returning to the stage after some ten years. Mrs Belinda Eldridge, the writer, producer, costume designer and choreographer of this Musical provided the inspiration and direction for this exciting production.

participation from the junior school

Look at our new Library taking shape!

Through the Building the Educational Revolution (BER), Fairholme College received funding to construct an innovative purpose-built Junior School Library which will be completed at the end of Term 2.

The visually commanding structure and the multiplicity of spaces within the new Library are outstanding features which will not only create an energising learning community but will infuse inspiration and creativity of thought. The stunning new Library has been designed to incorporate real and virtual settings by accommodating over 10,000 books, a storytelling zone with multi-media features including an Interactive Whiteboard, class teaching spaces, an Information Communication Technology hub, research and quiet learning areas and a contemporary work area for staff. The undercover area will enhance our playground space and the landscaped gardens will provide an attractive link between the Junior School and the new Library building. The design of this stunning Library will open up new possibilities for learners and learning through the way in which space has been created and become a focal point for the Junior School.

Mrs Lyn Merry Head of Fairhome Junior

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FAITH in her FUTURE

Mothers Day celebrations May, which is recognised

by Scholastic as the Month of Reading, offered us not only the opportunity to celebrate reading but also for the children to acknowledge their special Mothers by holding a Mothers Pampering Morning in the Kindy classrooms. The Mums were treated to foot spas, fingernail painting, back massages and were served a delicious morning tea of scones, baked by the Kindy children.

The Prep girls hosted an afternoon tea for their Mums, presented them each with a rose and entertained them with their own concert.

The Year 6 girls in their roles as Leaders of the Junior School held a Mothers Day Stall and the children from Kindy to Year 6 were able to purchase a special gift for their Mum from the Mothers Day Stall. It was a delightful scene watching the Year 6 girls assisting the younger girls to make their very own purchases for their Mum and then to wrap it up so carefully and beautifully. I am sure there were many very happy Mums on Mothers Day.

Junior School Leaders

FOJS High Tea A wonderful High Tea was organised by Mrs Robyn Reddacliff, Mrs Molly York and FOJS for us in the charming setting of the Cameron Room in the Fairholme Homestead. Our special Mothers enjoyed a delectable afternoon tea, were entertained with a fashion parade, shared favourite recipes, listened to the new Head of Middle School, Mrs Jaye Ross, won delightful prizes and most of all were treated to a little luxury for just a short while.

MORE FJ HIGHLIGHTS! Girls (and parents) went to a great deal of effort to don their best creations for ‘Crazy Hat Day’ - what a fun and creative way to end the term!

Interhouse Dolphin Swimming Carnival The winning House for the Prep to Year 3 girls was Stephens House, followed by Black, Powell and Cameron. Cameron House won the relay trophy and the Swimmer of the Day trophy was awarded to Alanna Rummell. It was amazing to witness the confidence and the excellent swimming with which these young children competed in their events, and even more importantly the amazing House spirit that was evident at all times.

When the points tally was added to the Years 4 - 6 Interhouse Swimming Carnival, the winning House was Powell. The last time Powell House won the Interhouse Swimming Swimming trophy was in 1991. Congratulations, Powell House.

An evening of great enjoyment was had at the Father/ Daughter social with the theme of joggers, jeans and jerseys.

This was a first, and from all accounts, there was lots of fun and laughter from the girls and their Dads.

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camping, camaraderie... from the middle school

welcome

What a busy, productive and fun-filled start to the The Middle School Year. In February our year 8s headed to Mapleton for their orientation camp. With many new Year 8 students who joined us this year, the three days away were a great opportunity for the girls to get to know each other and to start to work together as a year level. The beautiful facilities and wonderful food at Mapleton made this camp very enjoyable for the girls and the teachers!

The Year 8 girls were encouraged to try activities like abseiling, rock climbing and possum gliding. Many girls found these activities very challenging but they enjoyed the sense of achievement and boost to their self-esteem when they found they could tackle these challenging tasks. The girls also enjoyed some free time in the pool and had a lot of fun preparing and presenting their concert items. The added bonus of this camp is the opportunity for the girls and their teachers to work together and get to know each other in a relaxed environment. I especially enjoyed the chance to interact with the Year 8 girls so early in the year – it was a wonderful start for me as I strive to get to know all the Middle School girls.

The Year 8 camp was closely followed by the Year 9 camp at Edmund Park near Laidley. This camp has a focus on challenging the girls through getting them to camp out overnight, away from all amenities.

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The girls had to walk to their camp site while carrying their sleeping bags, tents and food. Many of the girls had never camped before and were very anxious about this camp before they left and were worried about their ability to cope away from their comfortable beds and bathroom facilities. However, the environment of Edmund Park is very beautiful, and once the girls had arrived and set up their tents most of them embraced the opportunity to have a new and different experience.

The Year 9 camp was quite challenging for most of our girls but when they returned to the Edmund Park base camp after camping and a long walk with their heavy packs on their backs, their sense of pride in their achievement was very evident. The teachers who accompanied these girls all noted the opportunity that this camp gives to the girls to boost their self-esteem by allowing them to succeed at something new, different and challenging.

Soon after the Year 9s returned it was the Year 7s’ turn to leave the Middle School and head to Canberra and Sydney. This trip was greatly anticipated by the Year 7s. Many of the girls had not flown before, most had not visited Canberra and some had not been away from home for four nights before so there was a mixture of anxiousness and excitement amongst the Year 7 girls and their parents.

and creativity!

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The girls left Toowoomba very early on 15 March and went to Brisbane and then flew to Canberra. They spent three days in the nation’s capital and enjoyed learning about Australia’s Government through their visits to Parliament House, the National Museum, the National Gallery and Government House. Their visit to the Science Centre and Questacon was also a wonderful learning experience.

enjoyed the chance to spend time with each other, without the pressure of the classroom work and assessment.

From Canberra, the students travelled to Sydney where they had two days seeing the sights. These included some time at Taronga Zoo, The Rocks, The Opera House and Hyde Park Barracks. They flew back to Brisbane late on March 19 and they were exhausted but very happy to have had such a wonderful experience. The teachers who travelled on this trip felt that the girls’ behaviour and conduct was exemplary throughout the week and they received many comments about the excellent presentation of the girls as they made their way around Canberra and Sydney.

Pictured below: Middle School leaders for Semester 1 (Back row, left to right): Tara McClelland ,Fiona Elder, Chelsea Hood Withey, Sharn Campbell, Honor Moore, Phoebe Saunders (Front row, left to right) Ruby Elliott, Chelsea Hillier , Grace Elliott and Catie Bartelen.

There are many activities that involve our girls in Middle School that are ongoing, such as the MAPS production, Debating, Readers Cup and many sporting competitions; this means that our girls are very involved in College life at Fairholme. I look forward to continuing to get to know all the Year 7, 8 and 9 girls and watching them grow and develop within the supportive environment of Fairholme Middle School.

Mrs Jaye Ross Head of Middle School

The Year 7s also enjoyed their first Life Skills day on Friday 23 April. They had a fun filled-day of activities centred on friendship and team building, conflict resolution and resilience.

This was a great chance for the girls to be reminded about the importance of tolerance and kindness and they really

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2010: AMEN !

Our first assembly for Term two saw the launch of the ‘M’ in 2010: AMEN! Our Head Girls, Sara, Matilda and Alexandra, highlighted the importance and need for connections within the school community. Their crucial message (MIX) was delivered under the guise of chefs, as the ‘Mix Masters’.

While the delivery is fun, the message is one that is fundamental to not only our theme for the term, but to our adage of the Fairholme Family.

The need for meaningful connections with others is critical to one’s development, strength and resilience. These connections provide the foundation for significant growth; such development is an important element of what the College aims to provide our girls.

mixing it up from the senior school

Captains’ Council 2010 saw the launch of the Toowoomba Captains’ Council, whose membership consists of the captains of Toowoomba secondary schools. Our Head Girls hosted the second meeting of this Council on Monday 19 April, in conjunction with Concordia College Captain, Mitchell Evans. The group, even in its early days, is a vibrant, motivated group.

The core of the Fairholme meeting was based on the notion of sharing. Accounts of successful ventures, hurdles overcome and supportive advice were the central foci and became the encouragement needed for renewed focus and drive within the leaders who attended.

Many thanks and congratulations to our cochairs for the meeting, Sara, Alexandra, Matilda and Mitchell; they hosted a very productive and energising event.

Senior Leaders Back row L to R Jess Webb, Tracy Woolacott, Phoebe White, Emilee Cherry, Georgia Gifford, Emma Bromley, Elizabeth Smith ,Abby-Lee Woods, Emma Hamilton

Front row L to R Lucy Harris, Matilda Elliott, Sara Al-Bostanji, Mrs Linda Evans, Ms Catrina Sharp, Alexandra Gifford, Megan Geytenbeek Hannah Furey

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Middle row L to R Emma Sealy, Kaiya Ferguson, Amitée Ryan, Georgie Stoltenberg, Kate Scudamore, Jemima Readford, Annabelle Amos, Johanna Holding Rebekah Greenhill, Amelia Duncan Rebecca Norrie

AHISA + PC = Excellent Every two years, AHISA, the Association of Heads of Independent Schools Australia, host a national conference on Pastoral Care. The 2010 Conference was truly excellent; the opportunities to network, share stories and hear from superb speakers can never be underestimated in terms of encouragement and renewal. Hosted in stunning Alice Springs, this year’s conference contained important messages about youth and the internet, relationships and connectedness for young people, and the importance of a strong, genuine partnership between student, family and school.

One of the many fabulous presenters, the Reverend Doctor Richard Leonard, currently the Director of the Australian Catholic Office for Film and Broadcasting, and originally from Toowoomba, spoke of the link between youth and the internet, and our reaction to this very strong connection. He suggests we try to immerse ourselves in the new internet world in which the girls live. What a challenging concept for us! This basic theory, steeped in empathy and embracing the unknown, is a call for us to be open to understanding the girls’ need to communicate, explore and connect via the internet. Richard Leonard encourages us to see the internet as not only a source of information or a social tool that consumes our girls, but as new phenomenon that is, I suppose, as natural to our girls as EPs and LPs were to us in our youth.

This is indeed a challenge when we feel armed with experience and wisdom that can make us think otherwise.

Richard Leonard’s approach is based on knowledge and understanding; may it be a challenge to us all. I believe challenges aren’t negative, or all about work that is difficult or unwelcomed; challenges are about growth, and growth is good.

Service The notion of gratitude and mindfulness is one which can be overlooked in our busy lives, in this hectic world. These strengths of character form the core element of the Year 10 Life Skills curriculum.

The girls, who have discussed and auctioned service within their home environment have recently embarked on self-devised projects which will serve their immediate community, the College. We look forward to seeing their work evolve before they move to serving the wider and global communities this year.

what a mix!

careers, camps, chemistry and more!

Above: Careers Mart

It’s finding your giving self, and taking action – no matter how small – that really counts.

S Cooper-Smith, 2002

Mixing it with Role MODELS Lisa Cox is a strong, determined and focused woman; she is an author, speaker and wonderful role model.

Lisa has played volleyball for Australia, has a Business degree and has a decade of experience in the media industry. Lisa has also spent time as a model, working throughout the nation. She has also had a hip replacement, one leg amputated, along with the other foot. Her sight is not what it once was, she has no finger tips, and she spends much of her time in a wheelchair. These circumstance are enough to disillusion and discourage the strongest person, and are the result of a brain haemorrhage suffered over five years ago, as Lisa waited at an airport to return to Brisbane.

Not content to allow this to overcome her mind and body, she fought the biggest battle of all. After years of rehabilitation, including learning how to walk and eat again, she now travels widely, visiting young people all over Australia, and challenging them to be mindful of the representation of youth in the media.

Lisa visited the College twice in recent times, speaking to all girls in Years Eight to Eleven. She showed them footage of how models’ appearances are altered to appear they way they do in the world’s fashion magazines; she even showed how a colleague took a snapshot of her, and with a few clicks of the mouse, gave her fingertips, placed lovely open-toe sandals at her feet, gave her a glowing tan and made her hair more blonde.

Lisa’s message was one of inner strength and of choice. She spoke passionately about believing in one’s self and acting with integrity. She engaged our girls in a discussions about such aspects as self belief, personal qualities and decision making. It was our pleasure to host Lisa here at Fairholme; her life story contains remarkable messages of strength and self awareness and encourages everyone to look at the world through more perceptive eyes.

Left: Year 10 Camp

Right: Chemistry Excursion

Left: Geography Excursion

Right: Biology Camp Bottom Right: Ancient History Field Trip

Ms Catrina Sharp Head of Senior School

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teaching

and learning

I’m very excited about the new Girls can study for success from a male’s perspective…. opportunity that has been presented to me as Head of Middle School at Fairholme College. I have been involved As teachers we have long seen the value As a male educator working in a with Fairholme as a parent for the of examining assessment and examination predominantly female environment one is last 6 years with both my daughters, results, which we believe encourages our constantly reminded of how girls’ brains are Amelia and Olivia, attending there since students to recognise their strengths yet wired differently from that of boys. Having they were in Kindy. I have been very also puts their weaknesses into perspective. taught previously at an all-boys school impressed with the high standards that This is helpful in reducing the tendency for the best part of sixteen years, when I Fairholme sets in every area but mostly to be over-critical and to be melodramatic arrived at Fairholme College in 2005, my I have enjoyed the family atmosphere about perceived weaknesses. As for Maths first ventures into the classroom, despite and caring environment that Fairholme and Science, when the girls learn how to my professional reading and preparation, provides to young people in Toowoomba. break down these disciplines into skills and were challenging, but I quickly learned that strategies, they soon realise that they are it was imperative to understand the way I have always enjoyed the challenge just as well-equipped as boys to excel in in which girls function as learners when that working with adolescents provides. such areas. By encouraging our students to catering for their educational needs.

The middle years of schooling (yr 7-9) think more naturally and openly because can be a particularly challenging time our classes and teaching styles are designed You might be pleased to know that esteemed for most young people. Many parents for them, they don’t feel ‘dumb’ in asking educational researchers, such as Leonard and schools find these years difficult to their teachers to explain material in a Sax, tell us that girls, as they get older, deal with. Students often disengage female-friendly way. continue to outpace boys in speech fluency, from education at this time and they also reading and writing. They shine as linguistic become more heavily influenced by their To illustrate my point, Dr. Carol Gilligan learners because they are much more peers and less willing to be influenced by at Harvard University writes about a class likely to be better listeners to speech. The their parents and families. At school, the given the moral problem of whether a man typical teenage girl has a sense of hearing academic achievement of this age group too poor to buy medicine for his dying wife significantly better than a teenage boy. As often declines as they struggle to find the should steal it. Boys tend to frame the issue emotion is processed in the same area of the person they are going to be. almost as if it were a Maths problem. They brain that processes language, you wouldn’t calculate the number of extra days the wife be surprised to learn that it is easy for most Although schools often find this age would live if she took the medicine. They girls to talk about their emotions. This group more challenging there are many ask what crime is committed by stealing the female attribute has particular significance things that schools and teachers can medicine and weigh up the legal penalty. when it comes to this time of year. do. Establishing a purpose built Middle They add up money lost in salary if the man School, as Fairholme College has done, goes to jail.

At the time writing, we are in the middle is an excellent start. This demonstrates of the assessment block, which can be a to the students a commitment to their On the other hand, the girls’ analysis of daunting experience for some girls. If a age group and places a great deal of this problem is much more complex and student feels unprepared or under-prepared, obvious importance to their position in creative. They think in terms of a series of examinations become a source of stress; the school. interconnected human stories and consider whereby emotion overturns logic and both the relationships and values of each reason. In the days leading up to assessment, It also allows for smaller groupings of person involved. They weigh the emotional some girls lack confidence in their abilities. students and means that the students consequences for each family member if the They argue that they cannot study for are well known and cared for by father goes to jail or if the mother dies. They some subjects, particularly the Maths and their teachers and gives teachers the want to know if the pharmacist is the kind Sciences; they often feel they cannot succeed opportunity to design a curriculum that of person open to negotiation. in areas that have long been regarded as the caters for the particular interests and domain of males. abilities of the students in the group.

Finally, I always take the Simpsons seriously as they really seem to care about education.

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In the episode ‘Girls just want to have sums!’ Principal Skinner lets fly that he thinks girls are more likely to struggle with Maths and Science. He gets booed and, eventually, fired. The new principal, a feminist, divides the campus into two, so the boys do not drown out the girls with their loud voices.

In the girls’ half of the campus, a different sort of Maths is taught; one which is unlike that of the men - something to be worked out and attacked. Instead, Maths becomes something that engages the senses. Lisa gets fed up and disguises herself as a boy so she can learn “real Math”. When Lisa wins the school award for Mathematics, she reveals herself also to prove girls are justyears as good Parents findthat the adolescent as boys,and but IBart declares, only reason difficult have always“The enjoyed Lisa won becausetoshe to think being in a is position be learned able to help like a boy!” parents and their children find their way through these years. There is Mr Stewart Peacock nothing better than seeing a young Head finish of Teaching Learning person Year 12and successfully surrounded by their proud family.

I am looking forward to working with students and their families in the Middle School at Fairholme College and I think the caring environment that Fairholme offers is incredibly special. I enjoy being a part of helping students reach their potential and live their dreams and I’m sure I will be involved heavily with life at Fairholme College.

Jaye Ross Head of Middle School 2010

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SCHOLARS’ASSEMBLY HAPPY organisation. To access theseHOUSE training DAY! modules students As the use of computer technology and digital One of the highlights of the new term is the Scholars’ Assembly held early Monday 8 February girls must be registeredOn with Teenangels and theythe need toenjoyed the first communications increasingly become a regular part of in February each year. The College invites students from the previous Collegeworking ‘Housewith Day’.

EachAfter House have an adult supervisor them. the enjoyed a slightly classroom pedagogy, and as issues such as cyber bullying year to attend as a celebration of the new academic year, and past students differenttraining, programme which ultimately encompassed completion of the required the students are continue to escalate, schools will be expected to provide convey stories of their journey from the end of Year 12 to the present. swimming in preparation the Carnival, recognised as ‘Teenangels’ andtrials run unique programsfor within effective programs that teach students and teachers how March Past about choreography, significant the school to spread the word responsible and safe rehearsals to use these technologies in safe and appropriate ways.

This year thirty of our 2009 seniors returned for the Assembly. This was develop various year- level dances, and war net-surfing to othertoteens and the younger students, parents, an excellent response as many of our girls live great distances from the cries from every corner of the College grounds. An and teachers.

At Fairholme College Middle School, a unique approach College and many have already left either to commence Orientation Week important feature of the day was the House Lunch has been adopted, allowing the students to become at University or to embark on a ‘gap year’. Our guest speakers, Charlene enjoyed the four groups.

The Teenangels program hasbybecome anhouse important technology teachers and share their knowledge with Roufaeil (Senior 2005), who is about to complete a degree in Medicine at part of school life at Fairholme. The College seeks to their peers and other members of the school community.

Monash University, and Joanna Crawley-Smith (Senior 2008), who has Perhaps the most significant aspect was the chance be a caring and safe environment for everyone and This strategy was selected as adolescent students often recently returned from Kent College, our sister school in England as a for cyber girls to get to know one this program assiststhis theformat schoolallowed in reducing listen to their peers more readily than to adults, and gap student, shared their thoughts and aspirations with those who will another and strengthens the relationships issues and inappropriate on-line activities. It ensures a adolescents are clearly more at ease using modern follow. Amitee Ryan, Prefect for Teaching and Learning 2010, wrapped up developing early in the year. new girls were continued discussion of cyber related issues and aOur better technologies than the average adult. proceedings with a well-crafted speech which encapsulated the tone of a able to spendand timeteachers with the understanding amongst parents of girls how in to their House, most inspirational morning. establishing ties to their House culture, and address these issues with their children and students.

The students who volunteer to undergo cyber training cementing new friendships. participate in completing a series of on-line modules to learn about a range of issues including cyber-bullying, privacy, social networking and Internet safety. These modules are provided on line, through the Teenangels

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It’s BACK! Due to popular demand, VOICES on the Range will excite, educate and entertain again in 2010.

VOICES on the Range PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Monday 30 August 2010 VOICES on the Range 2010 Wednesday 20 October Loads of Authors, activities and more!

For more information and to register interest please email: voices@fairholme.qld.edu.au

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The Arts..at its best!

MAPS: On a Musical Journey, the first of Fairholme’s two co-productions for 2010 with the Toowoomba Grammar School, took the audience on a sweeping voyage across time and place. Works by Vivaldi, Tchaikovsky and Australian composer Sarah Hopkins, in addition to classic Motown and moving spiritual work, were performed by the combined String Ensemble, Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra and a massed Choir consisting of over 150 voices.

In short, the evening was a stunning example of what is currently being achieved in our College Music program, and augurs extremely well for the staging of such musical events in the future!

GONDWANA VOICES Along with hundreds of other talented junior performers from throughout Australia, Fairholme students Emma Lumsden and Meg Hamilton attended auditions late last year for Gondwana Voices - the Australia’s National Children’s Choir. Imagine their excitement when it was announced that both girls were selected to participate in the ‘Gondwana Experience’.

The girls spent 2 weeks at the end of the Christmas Holidays in Sydney with 74 other choir members, enjoying workshops and rehearsals in preparation for a major concert that was held in the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Emma and Meg rehearsed 6-7 hours a day, working with high-calibre Australian composers and performers on a repertoire of around 15 pieces, (a large percentage of which were in foreign languages).

Incredibly, there were 15 students from the Toowoomba Region selected in Gondwana Voices - what an incredible achievement, not only for our girls but for Toowoomba itself.

AUGUST 5,6 & 7 A feast of Dance, Drama and Visual Art staged at Toowoomba Grammar School Assembly Hall $15 per person Tickets available at Fairholme College and Toowoomba Grammar School

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EISTEDDFOD SUCCESS Congratulations to all Fairholme students who participated in the 2010 Toowoomba Eisteddfod; all performances were of a very high standard.

The Fairholme College Junior Chorale were awarded 2nd place with 92% in the A Grade Primary School Choir Section of the Toowoomba Eisteddfod and the College Chamber Choir were awarded 3rd place in Spiritual or Gospel Chorus for Secondary Schools.

The girls pictured above (L-R) performed outstandingly in their respective sections/age groups and received the following rewards for their excellent efforts: Emma Lumsden - The Motee Rogers Memorial Trophy for Intermediate Piano Aggregate (Years 11 & 12). Tabitha Buttsworth - Sub-Junior Piano Aggregate Trophy (Years 5 and under).

Rebecca Norrie - The John Penny Memorial Trophy Aggregate for Vocal Solo (Years 11 or 12).

MUSIC CAMP On the last weekend of February members of the Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Strings, Concert Band and College Choir attended the annual Music Camp. This weekend of rehearsals, fun and other delights occurred at Mapleton on the Blackall Range. Not only does the camp serve as an excellent opportunity for the girls to focus on refining their musicianship - it also provides them with the chance to interact with other students and the Arts Staff in a relaxed environment. A wonderful weekend was had by all.

YEAR 12 SHOWCASE

2010

Saturday 11 September & Sunday 12 September USQ Arts Theatre 7.00pm TICKETS ON SALE SOON!

kaleidoscope of the arts

On Friday 12 March the Arts Department staged the annual showcase and celebration that is Kaleidoscope of the Arts. An exciting evening filled with creativity, artistic endeavour and musical magic ! An important fundraising event for our vibrant Arts department, Kaleidoscope performances included items by our College and Chamber Choirs, the Symphony Orchestra, the Chamber Strings and our versatile Drama and Dance Students. There was also a wonderful powerpoint display of visual art completed recently by talented Middle School Art students.

VARIOUS VICTORIES for

visual arts SUCCESSFUL ‘Escape’ Over 50 entries were received for the the Annual USQ Escape from the Zoo Art Awards outstandingly a total of 11 of these works were produced by the following gifted Fairholme Arts students: Georgia Shine, Darby Currie, Georgia Gifford (2), Belinda Tully, Emily Reardon, Sarah Lemon, Sophie Burgis, Caity Hogan, Elizabeth McClymont and Kaiya Ferguson.

Winners were announced at the Official Opening of the exhibition on Wednesday 26 May at 5pm in the USQ Arts Gallery, and from the four major awards announced, our girls certainly ‘scooped the pool’!

Best 2D work – Georgia Shine – Fairholme College - $100 Best 3D Work – Georgia Gifford – Fairholme College - $100 When the awards were announced, the girls were asked to speak to the gathering. Both ‘Georgias’ were extremely eloquent and confident, impressing the audience with their additional public speaking skills!

SHOW Stoppers!

In short,to quote one member of the audience, “there was amazing variety, many, many girls involved, and on every occasion, the performances were excellent!” The efforts of all students and Arts staff were clearly appreciated by the hundreds who attended, and it was a joy to see all performers clearly loving every moment!

Congratulations to the Arts staff who assisted students as they prepared for Kaleidoscope 2010, and the very supportive members of SOFA who provided a fabulous supper on the night.

Congratulations also to the following Fairholme students on their collective successes at the recent Toowoomba Royal Show: Laura Heydon CHAMPION SECONDARY SCHOOL PICTURE OF THE SHOW YEAR NINE COLOUR PICTURE (1st) Caitlin Hogan OVERALL CHAMPION PHOTOGRAPH OPEN PHOTOGRAPHY (1st and 2nd Place) Aleysha Martin Open Fine Art Section - Portraiture (2nd place) Erin McCallum (Senior 2009) Open Fine Art Section (1st place) Courtney Hayward YEAR EIGHT FREEHAND DRAWING (Highly Commended) Annabelle Perrignon YEAR EIGHT FREEHAND DRAWING (Highly Commended) Alison Thomas YEAR EIGHT FREEHAND DRAWING (Highly Commended) Anna Von Drehnen YEAR TEN FREEHAND DRAWING (1st place) Sarah Carberry YEAR TEN FREEHAND DRAWING (2nd place) Amber Bitzer YEAR TEN FREEHAND DRAWING (3rd place)

FOCUS on Fairholme Winter 2010

13

We are family....

from the head of boarding The Fairholme College Boarding

h

team pride themselves on providing a network of care and support that pervades all facets of school life.

l objective of the Health Centre eing is an integra -b ell w ed d an h alt r newly refurbish Student he ck care given at ou lo e-c -th en nd rst ou Ki ar r Sr , 24-hou Manager d by our new Nurse Health Centre. Le me Old Riordan, a Fairhol irholme Fa nt rre cu d Girl an Parent, the Health orates Centre now incorp n, tio Sta ’s the Nurse g Dispensary, Visitin Sick d an s Doctors’ Room easily e on in all Bay, accessible area.

Activities Apart from the academic and the co-curricular pr ogram that Fairh olme College Boarde rs are heavily involved in, a wide range of social activities are pl anned for relaxa tion, enjoymen to enhance frien t and dships. Regula r themed dinn are very popula ers r and have incl uded Valentin Day, Bands for e’s Boarder Bands, Day, and Budd St Patricks Day ies Dinner. Th the Broncos/Co , Earth e gi rls have enjoye wboys game at d trips to Wet & Suncorp Stadiu well regular sh Wild, m, and the Toow opping, movie oomba Show, s and attendin as g Boarder Soci Bash’ was an ou als. Our own ‘B tstanding succ oarders ess with over 80 0 students from Toowoomba, W arwick and Bris bane Boarding Schools attend ing.

h Staffing Our new Assistan t to the B House, P oarding astoral C are, Mrs feels we Jenny Su ll at hom tton e in h Black Ho use as sh er rooms in Low er e fondly own Fair recalls h ho er Mrs Sutt lme Boarding ex on perience . welcome has been a much d additio n to the House st Boa aff and is available rding girls for the each we ekday afternoo n and on week ends to suppo rt and facil itate student health and well being.

h

Service ‘Service to others is the rent you pa y for your room he re on earth’.

Service is an impo rtant part of Fairholme College ’s ethos as we aim to develop socially responsible youn g women with soun d value systems.

The Boarders cont inue to support their World Vision Sponsor child by foregoing dessert on the first Tuesda y of every month. Ne w initiatives this year have seen girls assisting on Saturday morni ngs at the Toowoomba Riding for the Disabled as well as enjoying fortnightly visits with the residents at the To owoomba TriCare Nursing Ho me. It is wonderful to see the girls so eager to contribut e to the wider Toowoomba com munity.

In every heart th ere is the power to do it.

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FAITH in her FUTURE

Ms Margeurite Du nn Head of Boarding

Service & sacrifice

Fairholme Remembers …

Staff and students commemorated Anzac Day in a EISTEDDFOD SUCCESS service that showed the spirit of ANZAC continues to be Congratulations to all Fairholme students who strong at Fairholme. participated in the 2010 Toowoomba Eisteddfod, all College performances a very high standard.to mark The held a were short of but moving ceremony ANZAC Day on Friday afternoon, 23 April. Pictured are The Fairholme College(Mother Junior Chorale wereReimers Yr Captain Billy Reimers, of Ashleigh awarded 2nd place with 92% in the A Grade 5) who delivered the Address, and host of the ceremony, Primary School Choir Section the Toowoomba Cadet Under Officer Lucy Harris.of Captain Reimers spoke and the College Chamber Choir were ofEisteddfod her own experiences in Iraq where she came under awarded 3rd place in Spiritual or Gospel Chorus enemy fire, and the similar characteristics of the modern for Secondary soldier to those Schools. who fought in Gallipoli 95 years ago.

The ceremony concluded with the Ode, spoken by Cadet The girls pictured above (L-R) performed Under Officer Harris, and the playing of the Last Post and outstandingly in their respective sections/age Reveille. groups and received the following rewards for their excellent efforts: OTHER SERVICED-BASED EVENTS INTERACT Emma Market Day held at Fairholme College to raise funds for charity.

Performing Lumsden - The Montee Rogers Memorial Arts students Trophy for Intermediate Piano Aggregate (Years entertain at Tabitha Buttsworth - Sub-Junior Piano 11 & 12).

Toowoomba Aggregate Trophy (Years 5 and under).

Garden Rebecca Norrie - The John Penny Memorial Settlement Trophy and Aged Care for Vocal Solo (Years 11 or 12).

Aggregate Centre.

Fairholme students “Relay for life” : a team event dedicated to raising funds for cancer research.

snapshots of success!

A select team of 25 Fairholme girls from Yr 8-10 competed in the Darling Downs Science and Engineering Challenge on Tuesday 18 May at the Clive Berghofer Centre at the University of Southern Queensland’s Toowoomba Campus. All those who participated should be proud of their level of commitment to the tasks, as they worked exceptionally hard and were awarded a trophy for 1st in an individual Challenge and overall 2nd place on the day.

Ellie Farrington (Senior 2009) is pictured receiving the QUT ViceChancellor’s Scholarship which was presented at a formal ceremony held at QUT on Monday, 8 March. * Errors and Omissions Unfortunately a technical error occurred in the Summer edition of FOCUS on Fairholme .

The photograph of graduating Year 6 students was slightly obscured and we do sincerely apologise to all students and families for this fault.

DISCOVERY TOUR 2010 Fairholme College is committed to the development of a strong and ‘real’ service program. At the heart of this is a relationship that has been established with an orphanage, Mizpah Home, in Ootacamund, South India.

For the last two years a team of twelve girls from Year 11 and four staff members have travelled to India to perform volunteer work for this community. In December 2009, the team decided to take on the task of painting the Mizpah building, inside and out. This was a huge assignment but one that was eagerly embraced and completed by the entire group.

The 2010 Discovery Tour team (pictured above), look forward to continuing the make-over of the orphanage and will also be taking small groups into the town to deliver food to the ‘street people’ of Ooty — widows, children, beggars and the like, whose home is the street.

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15

The weather on the evening of Thursday 25 March was very kind to the almost 100 elegant girls who sport glided through a large crowd before entering Picnic Point Restaurant and the commencement of the 2010 SENIOR FORMAL proceedings.

After wise words, fine food and some delightful dancing - all agreed that it was certainly a ‘night to remember’.

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FAITH in her FUTURE

formal fabulously

across the miles...

Exchanges from exchange students SWISS EXCHANGE BRONTE MARTIN Taking part in the exchange program to Switzerland for nine weeks was probably one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. As well as being a fantastic language-learning and cultural appreciation experience, it was also of great personal value. I loved meeting my exchange partner Jenny’s family and discovering the different ways of life, as well as the many different languages spoken throughout the country. I especially enjoyed visiting the Matterhorn with Jenny and some of her family – it was so beautiful. I would recommend this trip to everyone; not only did I gain a better knowledge of the language and an appreciation for the diverse culture, but I also made a unique personal journey full of wonderful memories that I will most certainly keep for life.

FRENCH EXCHANGE KAIYA FERGUSON The seven weeks in France I experienced were really quite amazing. Simply spending time with all the other students at the school we attended was a wonderful experience, and visiting Paris was phenomenal, of course. I can’t wait to return and I would encourage anyone to go on an exchange – you will seriously love it!

MEGAN GEYTENBEEK The seven weeks I spent on exchange in France over the Christmas holidays made up some of the best experiences of my life.

As well as enjoying all the beautiful sites and countryside, I really loved having the opportunity to live with a French family and experience the culture and way of life in France. I loved my exchange family and by the end was reluctant to leave, but I know that this experience is something that I will never forget.

PHOEBE WHITE During the 2009/2010 holidays, a French exchange took place, which I was lucky enough to experience.

We all attended school, and lived a French life for seven weeks. There are many differences in all aspects of life;

school was the biggest change, and opened our eyes to another world. It was the coldest winter in years and for most of us, it was the first time we saw snow. It was such a wonderful experience and I would go back there in a flash!

LOUISE JONES My seven-week exchange in France was an amazing experience that I will never forget.

My experience was unique as I visited Strasbourg, Groix and Paris many times.

It was a privilege to experience another culture, language and way of life. It was sad to leave and I hope to return one day.

I strongly recommend any girl learning French to apply for such an exchange.

GEORGIA GIFFORD Living in France for seven weeks was by far one of the best experiences of my life. I had always wanted to travel to Europe from the beginning of grade eight, when I first started learning French.

Experiencing French culture, food, the French school system, and meeting so many interesting people were definitely the highlights of the trip, as was improving my French, of course.

KENT COLLEGE EXCHANGE Pictured from left to right - students participating in the Kent College Exchange Program: Lucy Grieg, Chloe Wilson (Kent College), Amy Binns (Kent College), Anna Wilson.

I strongly encourage all younger girls at Fairholme to study a language and therefore give themselves the opportunity to travel the world and experience something completely new and exciting.

ALEXANDRA GIFFORD During the 2009/2010 Christmas holiday break, I spent eight weeks on exchange in France, and a small village of fewer than 5000 people, Lardy, became my home.

During my stay, I learned a lot about French culture, tried and loved many different French foods, made some great friends, improved my French and visited Paris often. I fell in love with everything French and now have an addiction to travel, especially in Europe. The exchange also taught me a lot about myself and I would do it again in a flash. I feel very lucky to have been given the chance to experience such a great exchange and I am sure that it will remain a cherished memory forever.

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FAST is GOOD! The Fairholme Aquatics Swim School has recently been awarded the 2009/2010 Queensland AUSTSWIM Swim School of the Year Award. Each term over 200 Fairholme students participate in weekly swim lessons at our centre, in addition to students from outside the Fairholme Community.

Head of Learn to Swim, Judy Dickinson, received the award on the Centre’s behalf at the Queensland AUSTSWIM Conference on Saturday 10 April.

Fairholme Aquatics Swim School will now represent Queensland in the National Awards to be announced on 3 July.

The Fairholme Aquatics Swim School was judged on criteria set by AUSTSWIM as demonstrating the ideals and philosophies of AUSTSWIM. The longevity of our staff at the Swim School was something that was a crucial part of our success. Many of our staff have been at the Fairholme Aquatics Swim School for over 5 years - some over 10, and still enjoy coming here each day. They believe in our program and the curriculum that we teach. Our staff practise lifelong learning each year, attending a wide range of professional development opportunities.

Our Learn to Swim curriculum is about teaching good technique and about teaching swimmers to feel safe and confident in an aquatic environment. It is essential that swimmers learn to respect water.

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FAITH in her FUTURE

Fairholme Aquatics Swim School sees itself as a key member of our local community. As part of the Fairholme College Community we work hard within the school to promote aquatic education, both within the school curriculum and in outside hours. We offer swimming opportunities for all Fairholme students from Kindy through to Year 12.

We also work closely with other swimming bodies such as Swimming Queensland to promote Swimming as a Sport, further developing our philosophy that Swimming is your playground for life! Each year we host a Macca’s Mini Meet encouraging swimmers from our Swim School to think of swimming as a sport can continue throughout their lives even after they have graduated from our Swim School.

Fairholme Aquatics Swim School also provides opportunities throughout the year for those aged 16 and over to become AUSTSWIM Instructors, with Head of Learn to Swim Judy Dickinson conducting AUSTSWIM Course at the Centre. At the conclusion of this course our staff work closely with trainees to develop qualified Swimming Instructors not only here at our Swim School but for Swim Schools throughout the region.

We are very proud to receive this honour. We would like to thank all of our swimmers and their families for allowing us all here at the Fairholme Aquatics Swim School to do the work that we love each day.

Mrs Ainsley Hardie Fairholme Aquatic Centre Co-ordinator

swimming

success stories!

Fairholme Junior in the swim!

Portia Hood Withey was selected as a member of the Darling Downs swim team to compete in the State Primary School Swimming Championships in Brisbane from 28 March to 30 March.

State Swimmers Following three days of competition at the Queensland Secondary Schools Swimming Championships, Jessica Reinhardt, Samantha Hollands and Natalie Dendle were selected into the Queensland Secondary Schools Team to compete at the National Schools Championships, which will be held in Brisbane during June.

Hayley Wolff (Senior 2009) After her performances at the Australian Age Championships and the Australian Open Hayley Wolff has been selected for the Swimming Queensland Team to compete at the 2010 Chinese Youth Championships, June 17-20.

This is a major development activity for Queensland’s most talented emerging swimmers. Hayley continues to train at Fairholme and we wish her all the best for this great opportunity TSSS Swimming Dinner Girls from Year 8-12 who had been selected to compete at the Toowoomba Secondary Schools Swimming Championship celebrated in style at the Annual Swimming Dinner held in the Homestead.

interhouse carnival Amidst thunderous cheering and applause, Black House were announced the winners for the 2010 Inter house Swimming Carnival.

This year’s carnival was yet another example of Fairholme’s House Spirit at its best. Records were broken, March Pasts were magnificent and earplugs were an absolute necessity!

Interhouse Swimming: Age Champions were: 12 - Shannon Tucker (S); 13 - Kaiti McGregor (P); 14 - Ellie Batzloff (C); 15- Elizabeth Stevenson (S); 16 - Natalie Dendle (B) and Jessica Reinhardt (B); Under 20 - Sam Hollands (B); and Open - Elizabeth Stevenson (S).

Other trophy winners were: March Past - Powell; Junior - Elizabeth Stevenson (S); Day Girl - Elizabeth Stevenson (S); Boarder - Natalie Dendle (B); 100m Freestyle - Natalie Dendle (B); Open IM - Elizabeth Stevenson (S).

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team

sports

Skilful Soccer!

Scoring a win at the inaugural Football Toowoomba Fillies President’s Cup Final, Fairholme Blue defeated Downlands 3-0. In blustery conditions at Gatton Football Club, Fairholme controlled the game from the first whistle, managing to score its three goals in the first half. Scorers were Emily Tapp, Joelle Barnes and Juliette Poad. The President’s Cup is a final played between the top two teams at the halfway point of the season.

We wish the girls well for the second half of the season and look forward to the finals in September.

Fairholme Sports Stars reap the rewards at Darling Downs Dinner On Saturday February 14, at the Annual Darling Downs Sports Awards, Fairholme College was honoured by the Clive Berghofer group’s ‘Secondary School of the Year’ award. The Fairholme family celebrated Middle School students Meghan McBain and Kristen Currie’s incentive awards along with that of staff member, Brian Schmacker.

Cross Country Relays Recently the Cross Country team competed at the Queensland All Schools Relays and Individual events. Congratulations girls on the following results: Individual events: Grace Wheeler (9th - 17yrs) and Therese Von Drehnen (4th - 18/19yrs) were invited to join the Queensland team. We also won a team Bronze Medal in the 16yrs - Emily Perkins, Rita Poad and Hannah Jannusch.

It certainly was a night for celebrating: Prefect for Sport, Emilee Cherry was short-listed for Junior Sports Star and Hayley Wolff (Senior 2009) was runner-up for Junior Sports Star. Fittingly, in her acceptance speech, Hayley acknowledged both her parents and her very deserving (and excited) coach - Tim Taylor - our Head Swimming Coach at Fairholme.

The Darling Downs Secondary Sports Award was both a worthy acknowledgment of sporting excellence and of the high level of participation which we encourage and value at Fairholme.

Relays: Two team medals in the 16yrs: Silver - Grace Wheeler, Nat Dendle and Juliette Poad and Bronze Clancy Heidrich, Karlea Hindmarsh and Rita Poad.

All Hallows Touch Carnival On Sunday 18 April, Fairholme College sent both a Junior and Senior team to the All Hallows Carnival, held at Whites Hill Sports Reserve.

The girls played brilliantly for the entire carnival and came home with two silver medals for their efforts.

Both the Senior and Junior teams played All Hallows in the final with both matches being incredibly tight to the final whistle.

The tournament was an ideal preparation for the upcoming Queensland All School Championships.

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FAITH in her FUTURE

Equestrian The Equestrian Team had its first competition for the year over the weekend of 26, 27 and 28 March in Toowoomba with the Darling Downs Regional Championships. Fairholme was represented by Erin Hannant, Emily Reardon, Kelsie Cranston, Anna Bourne, Alex Munro, Maitie Webb and Chrissie Hilton.

Battling for the Golden Glove!

The annual Golden Glove Softball Challenge, an interschool competion involving boys and girls teams in the 19 years and under age division, was held on Friday 30 April at Kearney Springs.

Fairholme Captain, Michelle Clemesha, and coaches Lyn Grieve and Ms. Gierke (who was also convening the tournament) led the players exceptionally well, with the team working hard to succeed in capturing second place at the tournament.

Peak to Park A local charity event, the ‘Peak to Park’ fun run was held earlier this month from Picnic Point to Lake Annand.

With approximately one hundred participants from the extended Fairholme Family - it certainly was a TEAM effort!

Thank you to everybody who took part and also to the handful of girls who gave up their morning to help out.

Junior Netballers Win Laura Geitz Shield After a round robin competition, our Year 8 and 9 Netballers successfully captured the Laura Geitz Netball Shield on Sunday, February 28. The girls defeated Goondiwindi State High, by 16 - 8 in their grand final match.

Importantly, Australian Netballer and former Darling Downs representative, Laura Geitz was on hand to present the shield and medallions to our players. She reminded all players that the most important aspects of Netball are participation and enjoyment.

Netballers Gain Representative Honours Following on from the success of Fairholme’s 2009 Queensland players Genevieve Aisthorpe and Maddie Paton, five Netballers were selected to represent the Darling Downs at the recent State Championships in Caloundra. Bronte Lloyd (absent), Cleannah Sweeney, Lavinia Tea, Rachel Curtis and Monica Lysanowicz competed for three days against some of the best provincial Netball teams in the State. The U/19 Darling Downs team finished the tournament in 5th place while the U/15 girls were placed 8th. Rachel Curtis was named in the Queensland U/15 Netball Team. Following on from the girls’ success at the State Championships, Lavinia, Rachel and Monica have all been selected in the 2010 Ergon Energy Netball Academy.

Local charities that were assisted by Fairholme’s efforts included: Teen Challenge, The Cancer Council and Clear Day: Childhood Cancer Support.

The girls had all disciplines of Dressage, Showman, Combined Training and Showjumping covered, with varying levels of success.

Considering five of them were riding new horses, the girls should all be very proud of themselves.

The Showman competition on Saturday was our most successful day with Fairholme taking fourth place in the Teams event.

Individually in the Showman Erin, Anna and Maitie were the standouts; Maitie was the star in the Dressage, while Chrissie, Emily and Kelsie performed well in the Showjumping.

Water Polo It was a great finish to a huge season for Fairholme Water Polo team members.

Both teams played extremely well during fixtures with Fairholme 1 playing off in the final. Many thanks to all players, supporters, Captain Kaiya Ferguson and Coach Hayley Wolff.

The icing on the cake: Sophie Hoffenberg, Kaiya Ferguson and Jess Cogill (Pictured left: from L-R) were selected in the Darling Downs team to compete at the QSSS Water Polo Championships in April, 2010.

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21

BREAKING NEWS on Tuesday 1 June, 2010: Fairholme College retains title of Darling Downs Cross Country Champions

sporting highlights

...more and successes Interhouse cross country

Representative Athletes CONGRATULATIONS to the following Junior, Middle and Senior students on their selections for Darling Downs teams in 2010:

Setting a cracking pace Congratulations to all who competed in this year’s Fairholme College Interhouse Cross Country at Kearney Springs on Monday 22 March.

We were blessed with fine weather and there were some equally fine performances.

Our age champions were: 12yrs - Madeline Lindemann (Stephens); 13 Years (Margo Manning Cup) – Mackenzie Andrews (Stephens); 14 Years (Louise Keys Trophy) – Chiara Osborn (Powell); 15 Years (Smith Cup) – Juliette Poad (Cameron); 16 Years (Hall and Hewitt Cup) – Emily Perkins (Cameron); and U20 Years (Anne B Provan Trophy) – Grace Wheeler (Cameron).

Our Champion House (Bevan Bishop Trophy) was Black.

Congratulations to CrossCountry coach Ms. McGuire, the girls’ success being a great reward for her excellent efforts!

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FAITH in her FUTURE

Fairholme Junior Cross Country Also held at Kearney Springs on Monday 22 March, the Fairholme Junior Cross Country (Years 4-6) showcased some determined and spirited young athletes. The winning House for this day was Powell, with 81 points. Cameron achieved 53 points and was closely followed by Black, with 43 points. Congratulations to the following girls who represented Fairholme Junior at the Range Zone Cross Country at Queens Park on Tuesday 18 May: Phoebe Duncan, Caitlin Gallo, Anne Jarvis, Georgina Kleidon, Gabriella Meyers, Eliza Smolenski, Stephanie Holmes, Lola Lachmund, Natalie McHugh, Chelsea Palmer, Taleah Rogers and Jillian Smolenski.

Every bit as exciting was the Kindy -Year 3 Cross Country event held at Fairholme College on Thursday 18 March.

All students performed extremely well, with Stephens house leading the way!

Netball – Bronte Lloyd, Cleannah Sweeney, Lavinia Tea, Rachel Curtis, Monica Lysanowicz Orienteering – Sam Johnson, Katie Devine Basketball – Emma Elsden, Maddie Brazier Swimming – Kate Brassington, Sam Hollands, Jessica Reinhardt, Natalie Dendle, Kaitlin McGregor, Portia Hood Withey, Shannon Tucker Tennis – Jasmyn Bryant-Kennedy Touch – Kristen Currie and Emilee Cherry Softball – Belinda Schiller

International Honours for Sports Captain 2010 Sports Captain Emilee Cherry continues to set the benchmark in the sport of Touch in Australia with her recent selection in the Australian Open Women’s Squad to contest the 2011 World Cup in Scotland.

As Captain of the Darling Downs Open side at the recent State titles in Chinchilla, Emilee led the team to its first ever win at these Championships. After progressing through the round games, the girls met Metropolitan East in the final with the Darling Downs team winning 7 – 6 in a drop off. Fittingly, Emilee was named player of the final and will once again represent her State at the National Schoolgirls Championships in September.

Queensland Field Coach of the Year Graham Pitt is no doubt one of the most successful junior coaches in the state, with a large proportion of the athletes representing the state in throws events hailing from Graham’s tiny patch of grass in Toowoomba. The Fairholme family congratulates Graham on his recent success as being crowned Queensland Coach of the Year. In addition to his remarkable achievements with junior athletes, Graham was officially recognised for his contribution to Justin Anlezark’s outstanding results in 2009. Graham is sure to see another of his athletes reach international level in the near future.

Futsall player selected in International Team Fairholme student Meg McBain was selected as a member of the Vikings under 14 Australian Futsall team which recently toured the United Kingdom.

The Australian Youth team particpated in a number of tournaments against Welsh and English teams, as well as taking in some sights during the tour.

Aussie Acclaim for Athletes The Senior Knockout Athletics team who traveled to Melbourne in December to compete in the national titles certainly finished 2009 on a high!

Heading home as the highest-ranked Queensland school team and being placed third in Australia is no mean feat - well done girls!

Elite Gymnasts Pictured (from left) are Annie Flamstead and Maddie Emblen who have been selected to compete for Queensland at the national titles to be held in Perth in July, 2010. The gymnasts have reached Level 8 and 10 respectively, and both are highly ranked in their disciplines.

Mark this date on YOUR Calendar !

SPRING

into some good Old-Fashioned

FUN!

SATURDAY OCTOBER 16 2010 11am - 4pm With all the ‘FUN of the FAIR’ • • • • • • •

Rides Delicious food Plant and produce Stalls SIlent auction Books for sale Home-made cakes and Jams Heritage Fairholme Gift and so much more!

For more information please contact Fairholme College SPRING FAIR CO-ORDINATOR Mrs Kirsten Smolenski Mobile: 0457 155 504 email: smolenski@bigpond.com

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23

Fairholme

Old Girls Association

A note from the President Remember those winters in Black Dorm, the long corridor lined with beds, no heaters, wind whistling through the cracks – winter has arrived with a vengeance in Toowoomba this year and it has brought back memories of those years at Fairholme – we all manged to survive the inclement weather, and delightful stories of ingenuity and friendship from these times are abundant!

The new order of engraved pavers is on the way and these willl soon be laid along the paths that surround the lovely gardens at Fairholme. Thank you so much to those who ordered a commemorative paver in this most recent order- we would be happy for you to visit and view the pavers at any given time. The Paver Drive will be an ongoing fundraiser conducted, so please don’t feel that you have ‘missed out’ - anytime you would like to order a paver, just contact us. As the line of pavers grows, the effect of their display around the school is magnified and the girls love walking along and reading them.

Don’t forget Founders Day this year, Thursday 16 September. Last year, past students enjoyed some time in the archives section looking at our progress, then had a lovely lunch sitting with some present students who wanted to talk about memories of past years at Fairholme. Some of our very early students then spoke to the girls at assembly. The girls love listening to past stories about their school. It would be wonderful if you would come to Founders Day this year; I feel very strongly that it is essential for the current girls to have that link to the past - it gives them a sense of security.

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FAITH in her FUTURE

From the Alumni desk...

As another ‘school’ year flies by, I continue to witness inspiring displays of Fairholme pride, passion and loyalty.

We need you, Fairholme’s Old Girls, to keep a strong presence at the school and Founders Day is the obvious day to do it. If you live locally we can organise transport to school for the day, just let us know! Please mark the date on your calendar now and be assured that we will be in touch with further details.

Our Archives co-ordinator, Jenny Noble, is becoming increasingly passionate about her role and is really enjoying the involvement with our old girls. You have been wonderful; sending in stories, memories, articles and precious possessions. Nothing is too small or too insignificant – we appreciate anything that you might be able to part with and the stories behind these precious gifts are a vital part of our recording process. We do get very excited by your response to our questions in FOCUS and are thrilled that you read FOCUS so carefully and that your love for the school is still so evident after all these years.

The strength of Fairholme friendships is always very evident at re-unions, and none more so than at the Annual Brisbane Old Girls Reunion Luncheon held at Mt Ommaney in March. What a fabulous few hours I spent with some truly delightful ladies, who with (very little) prompting from articles I had taken along from our Archives Collection, regaled me with countless stories that both amazed and amused me!

Whilst I didn’t have the pleasure of attending the Sydney luncheon this year, it was said that the spirit and camaraderie of the group certainly overcame the fact that it was a smaller gathering this year.

I would like to pass on my congratulations to the talented Old Girls who performed so magnificently at the recent “Flavours of the Stage” Foundation fundraising event (see page 3). Thank you so much for Flying the Fairholme flag so magnificently!

It has been my pleasure to work with the ever efficient ‘Super Sleuth’ Mrs Jenny Noble in Archives in 2010, and her talents and passion in this area are immeasurable.

Jenny has also been assisting me with some Alumni ‘crossover’ projects and I sincerely thank her for her help in ‘keeping in touch’ with as many of you as possible.

Please keep the communication flowing; we love hearing from you and your responses have contributed to this ‘Bumper’ issue of the FOCUS on Fairholme Newslettter.

Keep well.

Jo Glasheen Claire Wuth (Perkins) (1974) President

Publications, Promotions and Alumni T 46884688 E foga@fairholme.qld.edu.au

QUESTIONS

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answers From the Archives FOGA Dates to Remember BRISBANE Sunday, 29 August Annual FOGABrisbane Church Parade, St Paul’s Presbyterian Church, St Paul’s Terrace, Brisbane Service at 9.30am; please assemble outside by 9.15am. A small plate for morning tea would be appreciated. RSVP - Hon Secretary, Anne Mitchell, 3269 9302 TOOWOOMBA Third Wednesday of each month (during School Term): Toowoomba FOGA Meeting 4pm Fairholme Foga Foyer Meeting Room Thursday 16th September Founders Day, Fairholme College

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They say every picture

tells a story; so

we think this one’s

got to be a good one!!! If you can name any of the crew in this ‘funny photo’ we’d love to hear from you..

You might even be able to fill us in on why you would need a helmet on to play in this particular netball competition??!!!!

ARCHIVAL MYSTERIES 1. Miss Tassie’s dog was named Bill

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2. The college hymn became ‘Praise to the Lord the Almighty’ in 1955. Prior to this, there were two school hymns: ‘Fight the Good Fight’ and ‘Jerusalem’. Many thanks to the many Old Girls who have helped to solve this mystery. According to one Old Girl, in 1939 Miss Culpin let the Fairholme girls choose their own school hymns, and they chose ‘Jerusalem’ and ‘Fight the Good Fight’.

ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS in Focus on Fairholme Summer 09/10 3. We’re still working on the headscarf mystery. One possibility is that the letters came from the various Forms (Grades) at Fairholme: J stood for Junior; P stood for Preparatory; and C stood for Commercial.

Any further light that anyone can shed on this issue would be appreciated.

Sunday 17th October FOGA Church Service 9 am at Fairholme

4. Many Fairholme Old Girls thought they might have been in the photo with the Fairholme sign! It was taken one morning after a storm had knocked down the Fairholme sign the previous night. The girls in the photo are: Charm Broadfoot (later Jackson) (1941-43), Dianne Young (later White)(1942-43) and Ailsa Gibson (later Persse)(1941-43).

FOGA Annual Luncheon for all year levels – (all Welcome) Fairholme College Dining Room

Saturday 16th October Fairholme College Spring Fair Annual Year Level Reunions (Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 October)

Fairholme Old Girls at War Having recently celebrated Anzac Day, we are mindful that women, as well as men, served our country in wartime and made sacrifices to preserve our freedom. We would like to honour any Fairholme Old Girl who has served her country, whether as a WAAAF or as a Land Army girl; in a military or auxiliary capacity. Listed below are some Fairholme Old Girls who served during World War II. Do you know of any others? Do you know of anyone from Fairholme who served in Korea, Vietnam or in more recent conflicts?

Do you know of any Old Girl who is currently involved in military training or service?

We would like to honour these Old Girls in future Anzac or Remembrance Day services, and create a section of the FOGA Archives dedicated to them.

If you have any information or photos or memorabilia relating to ‘Fairholme Old Girls at War’, please contact Mrs Jenny Noble, Fairholme’s Archivist.

Fairholme Old Girls who served during World War II include: Joan Kolbe (Beardsworth); Jean Bull (Munro); Margaret Bull (Dobson); Bronwen Butcher; Lois Chaille (Mapon); Joyce Chamberlin (Nicholls); Madge Chamberlin; Evelyn Crowther (Maschik) Kathleen Dickson ; Jean Jackson; Lyndall Keene (Barlow); Olive McMahon; Dorothy McMaster; Joan Meares (Board); Jean Meisenhelter (Hocking);Enid Mitchell (Cox); Jean Murray; Isabella Pollock (Smith); Betty Provan.

FOCUS on Fairholme Winter 2010

25

Past Students UPDATES

Tamar Smith(1987-1991) and her three Alaskan Malamutes headed off to Dinner Plain (Mt Hotham, Victoria) in August last year to participate in the unusual sport of Sled Dog Racing.

Similar to the Jamican Bob Sled Team, Tamar faced the challenge of where to train her team as she currently resides in sunny Queensland.

Thankfully she discovered a solution in the Northern Exposure Gig Racing Club, promoting the sport of sled dog racing by running the dogs along State Forest tracks for their training sessions. We wish Tamar all the best with her future endeavours in this challenging sport!

2010 has been a very busy year for Old Girl Tiffany Jones (1980-87). Not only did the Tiffany Jones Fine Art Gallery supply investment works for the recent Toowooomba Grammar Art Show, stunning pieces from popular artists including Albert Namatjira, David Boyd and Robert Dickerson were also exhibited at her gallery in Buderim, during March this year.

Local artisan Jess Lambert(1996-2000) is certainly making a name for herself these days! After studying at the prestigious Queensland College of Art, Jessica now runs her own business, Visualante in Brisbane, a boutique creative house that specialises in fashion photography, fashion and event styling, and creative concepts & production. Jessica is pictured below at the recent the Je Ne Sais Quoi

exhibition(founded by none other than Jessica herself), at Studio Thirteen in West End, Brisbane.

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FAITH in her FUTURE

Please send in your story (and a photograph if you can)! This is a great way to let us all know where you are at and what you’re up to!

In mid 2009 Rebecca Vonhoff’s (19892000) academic efforts were rewared when she was awarded two scholarships to study in Germany. After completing a Journalism and History honours degree at the University of Southern Queensland, Rebecca decided to undertake the daunting task of completing a PhD. Armed with a keen interest in her German ancestry and a love of study, she applied for and was awarded a University of Queensland scholarship to research the presence of radical nationalist sentiment in Australia between 1871 and 1914. After months of preparation she moved to Berlin where she has spent the past 10 months.

Past Fairholme College boarder Peta Wade (1994) originally from Charleville, geared up for a busy year this year as Principal of St Patrick’s School, St George.

After attending the Tenterfield show, Assitant Head of Pastoral Care Mrs Jenny Sutton learnt the news that Philipa Smith (1999-2003) completed a Bachelor of Applied Science from UQ at Gatton and is currently working in South Australia at Lindsay Park Thoroughbred Horse Stud, and is hoping to undertake a Diploma of Education in 2010.

Congratulations to Old Girl Rebecca Gillam(1997-2007) who was awarded the Young Citizen of the Year Award at Highfields Annual Australia Day Celebrations in January of this year.

What a great finish to 2009 for Old girls Sandee (Jackson)(1985-86) and Paula(Proctor) (1987-88) Brimblecombe when their family business, Browns Office Choice received the Office Choice Suppliers’ dealer of the Year Award. The award was voted on by the preferred suppliers of the Office Choice group, which consists of more than 150 stroes across Australia.

Congratulations to Emily Baker (2004-05) who is now in her 4th and final year as an apprentice refrigeration mechanic with Alpine Refrigeration Air Conditioning.

Steph Wuth (2004) is pictured left with her proud Mother Claire Wuth (Perkins) (1974) and her fiancé Leith Couper graduating in a Bachelor of Pharmacy from Charles Sturt University, Orange Campus on 26th March 2010.

Hitting the HEADLINES!

Currently in her final year of her Bachelor of Music degree in Advanced Performance at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music, Mezzo Soprano Jade Moffat (2005-06) studies under acclaimed Professor Janet Delpratt.

In recent times Jade has been involved in numerous highcalibre productions . In 2009 Jade was selected as one of five finalists in the Australian singing competition’s Mathy Awards, where she was awarded the $15000 Nelly Apt Scholarship, to study at the International Vocal Arts Institute in Israel in 2011.

Later this year, Jade travels to Tokyo, Japan, to perform the role of Fenena in the IFAC’s production of Verdi’s famous opera Nabucco.

Jade was also recently announced as ‘runner up’ at the TS Bustow Gala Concert held at the Empire Theatres, Toowoomba.

One for the boys - Fairholme Old Boy Tim Dashwood (Fairholme Junior 1991-92) will play Schlomo Metzenbaum, a shy classical violinist in the hit stage musical “Fame” opening at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre on April 15 - Brisbane performances open 19 June.

DID YOU KNOW? Sara Collins (1988-99 )has really hit ‘the big time’ - in more ways than one! Sara recently starred in her new hit comedy show ‘Donna and Damo’, alongside Justin Kennedy (her real-life boyfriend) at Melbourne’s Victorian Arts Centre during the 2010 Melbourne Internation Comedy festival from 24 March - 26 April.

But the excitment doesn’t end there; at the conclusion of Tuesday’s 30 March show, Justin popped the question in front of Sara’s family and the entire audience - what a proposal...and of course Donna/Sara said yes!

(See engagement notice page 28)

The prolifically flowering Australian hybrid Grevillea ‘Robyn Gordon’ was actually named in memory of Fairholme student Robyn Gordon who died tragically in 1969 at the age of 16.

Robyn’s family were no strangers to Fairholme, with Robyn’s Mother Dorothy Gordon (nee Gemmell) boarding at Fairholme from 1945, where her daughter Sandra says that she made some very dear friends and developed affection and respect for her school. Dorothy married grazier David Gordon in 1952 and they went on to create their family of three daughters and a son.

Robyn began at Fairholme in 1965, with sister Sandra following in 1967 (it was during this year that Robyn’s illness became evident and she sadly passed away the following year). The girls’ sister Merinda started her schooling at Fairholme 1971.

It was about this time that a natural hybrid Grevillea was discovered in the Gordon’s 90 hectare garden “Myall Park”, Glenmorgan, and thus passionate amateur botanist Dave named the plant with a true all red flower the ‘Robyn Gordon’. Dave also named grevillea’s after his two other daughters: the ‘Sandra Gordon’ and the ‘Merinda Gordon’ as time wore on.

Over the years a number of the ‘Gordon’ grevillleas have been planted in various locations around the school as a sign of respect to the Gordon family.

Elesha Hetherington (2004-08) is no stranger to the spotlight. You may well recall her outstanding performance as ‘Maria’ in the 2008 Fairholme production of “The Sound of Music”.

Other performances include ‘Jemima’ in the Empire Theatre’s production of “Cats”. Elesha was also a member of the prestigious ‘ Gondwana Voices’ for five years, touring overseas with the choir in 2007.

Elesha currently studies voice and theatre at University of Southern Queensland and recently wowed audiences in her role as “Sharpay” in the popular High School Musical Empire Theatres production. Watch this space!

Many thanks to Sandra Neil (Gordon) for her assistance with information and photographs for this article. We acknowledge the Myall Park Botanic garden (and its wonderful work) which is now a community project owned and administered byt the board of voluntary directors Dave entrusted to continue his work.

Visitor information: 07 4665 6705 Email: mpbglimited@itconnect.net.au www.myallparkbotanicgarden.org.au

FRIENDS of FAIRHOLME visit It was our great pleasure to welcome and guide Mr Charles Birchall, husband of the late Isabelle Birchall (Martin) (1943-44 )and son Ian on a tour around the College during their visit to Toowoomba earlier this year.

Mr and Mrs Birchall were proud donors during the Middle School Appeal, therefore it was with much interest that father and son took in the well-equipped and up-to-date facilities within the Middle School precinct. Mr Birchall spoke of his wife’s fond memories and strong loyalty toward Fairholme and conveyed some stories of strong friendships that his wife had spoken of regularly.

It really is lovely to have FOGA family and friends visit us and we warmly welcome all those who might like to call in for a visit and tour of the College.

FOCUS on Fairholme Winter 2010

27

weddings weddings weddings weddings weddings

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1. Pippi Baker (1995-98) and Hugh Gardiner were married in the garden at Pippi’s home, “Doonkami” on 20th March 2010. Sally Baker (2003) (second from left) was chief bridesmaid.

Pippi’s grandmother and mother – Jenni Baker (McIntyre)(Fairholme 1974) were also both married in the garden at “Doonkami”, and the same wedding dress has been used and remade for each wedding. Pippi and Hugh are now living in Orange, New South Wales.

2. Alice Balsillie (1993 - 2005) married Ben Neldner on Friday 9th April at Bethania Lutheran church and afterwards reception was at L’Esprit on the Water” at Southport.

A highlight of the day was having Chloe Neilsen and Matilda Antonio (1995) as bridesmaids, having the Egerton Family

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FAITH in her FUTURE

Quartet play for her as she entered the church and having Pastor and Mrs Jessup as guests at the wedding.

Back row L to R Tristan Nelson,Josh Neldner, Ben Neldner, James Ryan,Andrew Burnze Front row L to R Lauren Beech, Chloe Neilsen, Alice Balsillie, Matilda Antonia, Angela Harding. Also pictured below is a lovely photograph of Fairholme Old Girls who attended Alice’s wedding.

(L to R) Lauren Peacock, Tamah Brunckhorst, Stephanie O’Dea, Chloe Nielsen, Kylie Squelch, Jane Morley, Lauren Chandler (all 2005) 3. Hayley Robinson (2005) and Roger Mason were married on 11 July 2009 at Brisbane City Church.

4. Nicole Walton (1999) and Chris Jones ‘tied the knot’ 16 January, 2010 at Albert St Uniting Church, Brisbane. Pictured from L-R: Fleur Walton, Ian Walton, Nicole, Chris and Ros Walton.

Also pictured are faithful Fairholme friends (from left): Edwina Robinson-Cuninghame (1998-2003), Nicole , Katie Moore (2002-03), and Sarah Michelmore.

5. Katherine Clewett (2000) and Daniel West walked down the aisle on15 May, 2010, at Concordia College Chapel, Toowoomba.

6. Emma Kellock (1999) and Todd White exchanged vows on 24 April, 2010, at Mount Tamborine Gardens Chapel with Margo MacKintosh(1999) in attendance on far right.

engagements

Don’t miss

FAIRHOLME SPRING FAIR and FOGA REUNION WEEKEND

engagements Stephanie Wuth (2004) to Leith Couper. To be married on 15th January 2011 in Highfields. Steph and Leith met at ‘O-Week’ in Steph’s first year at Uni and have been together ever since. They will be living and working in Toowoomba for the next couple of years.

Jessie Hindle (2002-2006) and Gary Chiconi (Taylors Plains, Mungallala) who have been together since Jessie’s final year at Fairholme, recently announced their engagement , and look forward to their wedding sometime in 2012!

Philip and Sue Collins (1967-71) are delighted to join with Graham and Denise Kennedy, Melbourne in announcing the engagement of Sarah (1988-1999) and Justin.

Peter and Deborah Moore of “The Peaks” Mitchell together with Malcom and Jennifer Crocker “Crochdantigh” Muckadilla are absolutely delighted to announce the engagement of Shannon (1997-2001) and Phillip.

Moira & John Thurgood would like to announce the engagement of Victoria Thurgood (1995 to 1999) to Jonathon Powell Former Concordia Boarder of Wandoan, Queensland.

Emma Blakeney (1989-2001) and Lachlan Woods became engaged on 23rd December 2009 on the beaches of Kingscliffe! Plans have been made to be married in Toowoomba in September 2010.

sad passings Dawn Beilken (McCulkin) (1958-59) Christine Brennan (Rich) ( 1988-1992 ) *Edna McGarry (Crosby) (1939) Joan Elizabeth North (Rosbrook) (1943) Joan Rogers (Wruck) (Teacher :1957-59) Helen Ruegg (Leslie) (1925-1927) Aileen Schafferius (Bryant) (1948-49)

tributes births Andrea Ramage (Busby) (1995) and husband Andrew welcomed their first child, a beautiful baby girl, Lauren Taylor on 11th November 2009 weighing 6lb 13.5 oz at St Vincents Hospital.

Merrill Ryan (Fordyce) (1989) and Bernard are pleased to announce the birth of their third child, Lauren Jane, (6lb 13oz) in Warwick on 21st August 2009, sister to Thomas and Amy. Ross and Rachel Pierce (Kirby) (19982002) welcome with love Chloe Irene, born 25th march, 2010.

Tammy Fagan (nee Myring) Class of 1999 and her husband, Sam, became the proud parents of Jessica Joan, born in October 2009. *** Correction Heath and Hannah McNulty (Blakeney) (1991-2002) continue to enjoy the delights of their 4 month baby girl MACIE GRACE (Not Marie Grace as previously published) Bryce and Natalie Wolfenden (Fisher) (1990-1994) proudly welcomed Brigalow Lloyd Meddleton to the world on 20/10/09, weighing 9lb.

*Lynnie Flett passed on the story about from her Nanna (Edna the Head Mistress Miss Culpin... Nanna - Edna McGarryn who was from North Queensland and felt the cold in Toowoomba. One day she was shivering and Miss Culpin asked her if she was cold and then suggested that she run around the oval a few times to warm up some!

(Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 October)

Saturday 16th October Fairholme College Fair 11am-4pm; All the usual fun of the Fair: Memorabilia display in the Homestead; Tours of the School; and individually organised Year-level reunions.

Sunday 17th October 9.00am FOGA Annual Church Service at Fairholme.

11.30am FOGA Annual Luncheon for all year levels in the College Dining Room.

Tours of the school between Church and Luncheon.

10 Year Reunion CLASS OF 2000 Location: Toowoomba Date: Saturday 16th October 2010 Co-ordinator: Tammy Seefeld (Evans) 0438 800 483 stevetam03@hotmail.com 20 Year Reunion CLASS OF 1990 Location: To be advised Date: Saturday 16th October 2010 Co-ordinator: Katie Wilson (Mitchell) 0406 750 225 katiewil@bigpond.com 25 Year Reunion CLASS OF 1985 30 Year Reunion CLASS OF 1980 40 Year Reunion CLASS OF 1970 50 Year Reunion CLASS OF 1960

The above listed class re ununions are ALL still waiting for co-ordinators to come forward. Don’t let your classmates down – offer to co-ordinate the reunion. The alumni officer is at Fairholme a couple of days a week to assist you if necessary. If you could coordinate your year group’s reunion please contact foga@fairholme. qld.edu.au. The earlier you start , the more success you will have in contacting girls in your year level.

60/70 Year Reunion All Culpin/Tassie/Joughin/Kerr/Crawford and ALL YEAR LEVELS! Location: Fairholme College Dining Room Date: Sunday 17th October 2010 Time: 11.30am for 12 noon Please email us at foga@fairholme.qld.edu.au or call the College on 4688 4688 to RSVP.

FOCUS on Fairholme Winter 2010

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reunions october 2009 Class of 1984 25 year reunion Saturday 17 October 2009

Sydney luncheon 2010

A small group of Sydney ‘Old’ girls gathered on March 11 for lunch and an annual reminisce about all things Fairholme. The group ranged from those with memories just a few months old and those who left the gates of Fairholme over 60 years ago. Nonetheless the commonalities far outweighed the differences.

On Friday 7 May, a group of Old Girls held their regular ‘get together’ luncheon. As you can imagine, they enjoyed lots of conversation, lots of laughs and as always they enjoying a day of reminiscing and catching up.

old girls’ update Name

Brisbane luncheon 2010

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Saturday 27 March

Maiden Name

Mt Ommaney Hotel Apartments

Pictured left : Principal Mrs Linda Evans (left) and FOGA Brisbane President Mrs Daphne Stewart (1949-52) find some time to catch up!

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Years at Fairholme .........................................................

Year Level at leaving .........................................................

Address

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email address ........................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................

Old Girls enjoyed the time to rekindle friendships and catch up with school friends for an update!

Telephone No. (s) ........................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................

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We are most anxious to keep our records up to date as this is most important for our reunions and other functions.

Please complete this form if any alterations are necessary and return to the College at your convenience.

Contact the FOGA office on 46884614 or email foga@fairholme.qld.edu.au.

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Pictured above: Lois Bovey (1950-52) the legendary Miss Nancy Shaw (Principal 1954-68) and Mrs Marjorie Milliken (1944-1949 ) Pictured right: FOGA Brisbane secretary Mrs Anne Mitchell (1950-53) chatting with Shirley Penboss (1951-54)

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Fairholme Old Girls enjoy morning tea after the FOGA Annual Church Service at St Stephen’s, Toowoomba.

Fairholme

College TOOWOOMBA

Residential Address Wirra Wirra Street Toowoomba Q 4350 Postal Address PO Box 688 Toowoomba Q 4350 T 07 4688 4688 F 07 4688 4694 E principal@fairholme.qld.edu.au www.fairholme.qld.edu.au Registered Provider (QLD): Fairholme College (Toowoomba) Pty Ltd CRICOS Provicer Code: 00651J

Proudly a College of the Presbyterian Church of Queensland

FAITH in her FUTURE

ABN 78 096 814 130