De la vida term 1 2014 web version2 by Karen Bickerton

De La Vida TERM 1 2014 EDITION 18

Welcome

Principal’s Message Welcome to the first of four editions of De La Vida that you will receive this year. The College Management Team and the Community Relations Department have spent considerable time evaluating our methods of communicating to the College Community. Our website is currently being redesigned so that it is more interactive and informative and we hope to have this in place by the start of 2015. Several years ago the trend was to move away from printed materials and use electronic communications such as email and an informative website. We have certainly done this and our College prospectus, Curriculum Handbooks and even the last copy of De La Vida can be found on our website. Having said that, you might wonder why we are now producing two extra editions of De La Vida in the year? It is always difficult ascertaining how much of our communication is actually read by parents. Several years ago our printed newsletter was sent home at the end of the week and we would hear about how these documents accumulated in the school bag. Now we send them electronically and, as email is being used extensively for communication and advertising, we are hearing comments such as, “I did not have time to read it.” This year we deliberately shortened the length of our newsletter knowing that once it gets too big the possibility of pushing the delete button increases, due to the reader’s time constraints. The College has so much to be proud of in terms of achievements in academic, service, cultural and sporting pursuits. These achievements need to be recorded and circulated and this copy of De La Vida is testimony of this. I hope you enjoy this edition and further editions that you will receive in 2014. As usual, if you have any feedback please email delavida@santamaria.wa.edu.au.

Mr Ian Elder Principal

In this Edition... i - Principal’s Message 1 - College News

Contributors A warm thanks to those who helped put this magazine together. Ian Elder

Marsha Pengilly

Paul Kinsella

20 - Community News

Karen Bickerton

Amber Stieber

Stephen King

22 - Old Girls’ Association News

Roberta Cowan

Claire Newton

Simone Sawiris

Danielle Cattalini

Paul Morris

Connie Quattrini

Sue McLennan-Atkins

Jennifer Jansen

Meg Anderson

De La Vida

Jennifer Oaten

Michelle Carrick

Jillian Landers

Published each term

Andrea Dopson

Jan Withers

Michael Fic

Tracy Webster

Nikki Chandler

Emily Gecas

Carol Bell

Amanda Huxtable

Scott Print

Anne Fisher

Emma Wood

24 - Archives

Please direct all correspondence to: De La Vida Santa Maria College Locked Bag 1, Melville, WA 6156 Telephone: +61 8 6330 0200 Facsimile: +61 8 9317 2838

Photo captions

Editor: Kimberly Maslin

Front cover: Rock Ya Socks Off Concert.

Graphic Design: Kimberly Maslin

Opposite: College Opening Mass.

Email: delavida@santamaria.wa.edu.au

De La Vida | Term 1 2014

College Opening Mass On Tuesday 11 February, the Santa Maria College Community celebrated the annual College Opening Mass, the first whole school Mass of the year. Our Mercy value for 2014 is Hospitality, which was a theme strongly represented throughout the service. Among the 2500 that attended were students, parents, family, and our special guests, the Sisters of Mercy. We were fortunate to have nice weather, and as usual, a stunning view of the city skyline. The congregation welcomed Father Sean Fernandez and the alter servers, along with student leaders Amber Withers (Year 12, de la Hoyde), Alice Anderson (Year 12, Frayne), Madeleine Petchell (Year 12, O’Donnell), Gracie Clune (Year 12, Corbett) and our Middle School Captains. They were joined by Mrs Sue McLennan-Atkins, Parent Council Chair, Mr Matt Kenny, College Board Chair, and Ms Danielle Cattalini, Old Girls’ Association President. During Mass twentyfour Year 12 students and four staff members were commissioned, and then had their first opportunity to give Communion at the Mass. The Mass was carried out with reverence, and it was an event enjoyed by all. It set the bar for Liturgical events in the future, and it was a perfect start to the school year. Meg Flugge (Year 12, Dillon), Liturgy Captain

Newly commissioned Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Alice Anderson (Frayne)

Sophie Lucivero (Byrne)

Eliza Banks (Kelly)

Sarah Malaxos (Byrne)

Giulia Bottega (Corbett)

Alexandra Morgan (O’Donnell)

Georgia Cameron (O’Donnell)

Gemma Pauley (Kelly)

Millie Charlton (Frayne)

Nicola Principe (O’Reilly)

Gracie Clune (Corbett)

Jessica Sidi (de la Hoyde)

Emily Daniels (Corbett)

Catherine Stanley (Dillon)

Meg Flugge (Dillon)

Kathleen Sullivan (Dillon)

Leah Gadd (Frayne)

Gabriella Whitehurst (de la Hoyde)

Amber Goerke (O’Reilly)

Emily Wilkes (Corbett)

Lauren Halls (Byrne)

Miss Véronique Heekeng

Simona La Macchia (Kelly)

Ms Sarah Peet

Melissa Laurino (Dillon)

Ms Erin Rolfe

Caitlin Lee (O’Donnell)

Mr Jim Watkins

College News

2013 Excellence On Thursday 6 February we celebrated the wonderful achievements

We were also fortunate to have Anne Marie and Bernadette Williams

of the Class of 2013 at the College Achievers’ Assembly. Forty-one

(Class of 2006) as our guest speakers. Together, they shared their

graduates were invited back to the College to be acknowledged for

experiences of being students at the College, as well as what they

the excellent results they achieved in Year 12 and during their WACE

have achieved since graduating. No doubt the words of wisdom shared

examinations. The dedication and hard work shown by all of the Year

by Anne Marie and Bernadette encouraged and inspired the current

12s has paid off and we are very proud of their achievements.

students.

Key WACE results •

86% of students gained an ATAR

•

78% of students were offered their first preference at university

•

Median ATAR of 90.05, placing us eighth in the state

•

52% of students gained an ATAR greater than 90

•

Thirty-two students gained thirty-seven awards, placing us seventh in the state and the highest placed Catholic school

•

We were recognised for being a top performing school in fourteen courses (listed opposite)

Photo captions 1. 2013 high achievers, Achievers’ Morning Tea. 2-3. Achievers’ Assembly. 4. 2013 high achievers, Achievers’ Morning Tea.

5. Anne Marie and Bernadette Williams (Class of 2006) with Mr Ian Elder, Achievers’ Morning Tea.

Accounting & Finance 3A/3B

English 2C/2D

Mathematics 2C/2D

Applied Information Technology 3A/3B

French 3A/3B

Mathematics 3A/3B

Geography 3A/3B

Politics & Law 3A/3B

Human Biology 3A/3B

Religion & Life 3A/3B

Italian 3A/3B

Visual Arts 3A/3B

Business Management 3A/3B Drama 3A/3B

Course Exhibition winner - student results were the top in the State Monique Ziegelaar - Religion & Life

Certificates of Distinction - student results were in the top 0.5% in the State Christine Barrett - English, Religion & Life

Nikki Hutchison - Religion & Life

Zoe Botica - Religion & Life

Monique Ziegelaar - Religion & Life

Claudia De Abreu - Religion & Life

Caitlyn Goldney - Visual Arts

Certificates of Commendation - student receives twenty A grades in WACE course units with a reduced number for VET students if units of competencies were achieved.

Summah Alexander

Darcy Harwood

Cindy Ng

Kellie Altus

Claire Heinrich

Lizbeth Ong

Brooke Armstrong

Grace Hendriks

Elizabeth Perica

Alicia Baker

Jessica Hicks

Kate Rayner

Aimee Clark

Clodagh Hussein

Alana Soltoggio

Claire Cowcher

Melissa Huston

Claire Strom

Shriya Danee

Nikki Hutchison

Janeczka Teng

Sofia Gamblin

Claudia Kirby

Jesselyn Teng

Caitlyn Goldney

Joanne Leca

Monique Ziegelaar

Emily Harcourt-Smith

Hazel Lehane

ATAR of 97.00 and above - Alphabetical order Kellie Altus

Darcy Harwood

Esther Power

Cadie Amalfi

Molly Higgins

Gabrielle Scheggia

Christine Barrett

Clodagh Hussein

Elaine Smith

Zoe Botica

Melissa Huston

Alana Soltoggio

Tayla Byatt

Nikki Hutchison

Janeczka Teng

Shriya Danee

Claudia Kirby

Jesselyn Teng

Suzanna Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Souza

Hazel Lehane

Alexandra White

Caitlyn Goldney

Emma Mignanelli

Monique Ziegelaar

Top ATAR for 2013

Elizabeth Perica

De La Vida | Term 1 2014

Courses where Santa Maria College was ranked as one of the highest performing schools in the State

College News

Learning from the best... Artist in Residence Program Each year, the Visual Arts students at Santa Maria College take part in an Artist in Residence Program, where they are given the chance to work with, and learn from, an accomplished artist over a two-week period. This year, the College was fortunate to have local artist, Abdul Abdullah, visit and share his knowledge of portrait painting from 10 March. In conjunction with this, the Year 12 Visual Art students attended a full day workshop with Abdullah on Saturday 15 March to learn about portrait painting using oils. The girls were required to paint either a family member, well known personality or someone who has been inspirational to them in some way. Many of the students had never painted in oils before, so really enjoyed the challenge of painting in this medium. Head of Visual Arts, Mrs Jan Withers, saw Abdullah’s visit as an exciting opportunity for the Visual Arts students. “I believe the students gained invaluable knowledge about portraiture through working with Abdul Abdullah and it was a unique opportunity for them. He is also an outstanding role model to have achieved the success he has at such a young age.”

This was followed by a visit from author, Richard Harland, on Friday 28 March. Harland writes the genre of Steampunk, a sub-genre of Science Fiction inspired by nineteenth century industrialised western civilisation. This was a relatively new concept to many of the Year 8 and 9 students who were treated to highly entertaining sessions, including guitar, costumes and readings from his latest novel, Songs of the Slums. Many students were inspired by the genre, with one noted as saying she had always wanted to write and now she might have found her genre.

Abdullah attended Applecross High School and graduated from Curtin University in 2008. He was an Archibald Prize finalist in 2011 and 2013 and has had his work exhibited throughout galleries across Australia.

Writer in Residence Program The Year 7 students and teachers were abuzz with excitement, buying books and posing for photos, when they were treated to a special visit by author Morris Gleitzman on Monday 24 February. Santa Maria was Gleitzman’s only school visit while he was in Perth for the Writer’s Festival, and it was a wonderful way to commence the Writer in Residence Program in the Sawle Literature & Research Centre. Gleitzman spoke to the students about the creative writing process, and where his journey began as a writer. He focused primarily on the creation of his characters and the need for them to experience problems in order to create rich and varied stories. This was a positive message about the need for everyone, real and fictional alike, to tackle problems and make them sources of personal growth and development.

De La Vida | Term 1 2014

College Production

Little women From Wednesday 2 April to Sunday 6 April, Santa Maria College Drama students brought to life Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel, Little Women. The production introduced the audience to the March family in Massachusetts during the American Civil War. Even though money is short, times are tough and their father is away at war, the March sisters’ infectious sense of fun sweeps everyone up in their adventures. Through sisterly squabbles, happy times and sad ones too, the sisters discover that growing up is sometimes very hard to do. The Production was a resounding success, with each performance selling out and receiving rave reviews from those who attended. Director of Performing Arts, Ms Amanda Huxtable, was proud of how hard the students have worked. “The girls worked very hard at accents, comprehending dialogue, learning lines, blocking and trying to understand the context of the play as it is set in 1863 – no iPhones to entertain them! Little Women is a story driven by girls’ stories and wholesome, traditional family values are presented. Through this story we learn that we are not all the same and we all have a different role to play in our families and in life.”

Rehearsals took place three afternoons a week and on Saturdays, with the cast consisting of thirteen Santa Maria College students and four male performers. All those involved ought to be commended on their hard work and professionalism in putting together such a rich and entertaining performance. Photo Captions 1. Artist in Residence, Abdul Abdullah with Visual Arts students. 2. Writer in Residence, Morris Gleitzman. 3. Writer in Residence, Richard Harland. 4-6. College Production, Little Women.

College News

Term 1 Interhouse Results Swimming Carnival

Cross Country Carnival

Public Speaking Competition

1st - Frayne

1st – Frayne

1st - Corbet

2nd - Dillon

2nd – Dillon

2nd - Dillon

3rd - de La Hoyde

3rd – de la Hoyde

3rd - de la Hoyde

4th - Corbett

4th- O’Donnell

4th - Byrne

5th - O’Reilly

5th – Corbett

5th - O’Donnell

6th - O’Donnell

6th- O’Reilly

6th - Kelly

7th - Kelly

7th- Byrne

7th - Frayne

8th - Byrne

8th- Kelly

8th - O’Reilly

Interhouse Swimming

Junior Swimming Carnival On Friday 14 February, the Junior School had their Swimming Carnival. All of the girls tried their best in an array of events including freestyle, breastroke, backstroke, relays and novelty events and in the end, Frayne won. Congratulations to Frayne and all the other Houses for their hard work and House spirit on the day. Champion Girl for Year 5 was Cleo Kenny (Dillon) and Runner Up Champion Girl was Georgia Mack (Byrne). Champion Girl for Year 6 was Emily Cleaver (de la Hoyde) and Runner Up Champion Girl was Helena Kang (Frayne). The records went to the de la Hoyde Year 6, 25m freestyle relay team, Georgia Mack for the 25m Year 5 butterfly and Mackenzie Bond (de la Hoyde) for the Year 6, 25m butterfly. Everybody had a great time and it could not have been done without the wonderful Mrs McAnuff, the parent volunteers and staff.

Holly Smith (Year 6, Kelly) Interhouse Swimming Carnival On Thursday 20 February, Challenge Stadium was abuzz with House cheers and lots of excitement, as the students took to the pool for the Interhouse Swimming Carnival. Students from Years 7 to 12 competed in a range of competitive and novelty events, from 100m freestyle to the boogie board race. The day showcased the commitment of House Coordinators, House Captains and each individual House member, with everyone seen to be striving to achieve their best. The day ended with a presentation of awards and the announcement of House Swimming results. These were a combination of the results from the day, as well as those acquired at the Junior

Photo Captions 1. Junior School Swimming Carnival. 2-3. Interhouse Swimming Carnival. 4. Interhouse Cross Country Carnival. 5-6. Interhouse Public Speaking Competition. 7. Bupa Freeway Bike Hike, Santa Maria College team.

De La Vida | Term 1 2014

Interhouse Cross Country

Burke Drive Foreshore was a flurry of colour on Friday 21 March, when Santa Maria College descended upon it for the annual Interhouse Cross Country Carnival. Students from Years 5 to 12 competed enthusiastically, each sporting blue chip timing ankle bracelets which recorded their individual time and placing. Following the races, presentations for Champion and Runner Up Champion Girls were awarded and each House put on a healthy morning tea to congratulate their students on all their efforts.

Interhouse Public Speaking The Interhouse Public Speaking Competition ran very smoothly this year on the evenings of Tuesday 11 March and Tuesday 25 March. This year, for the first time, Year 6s joined the fun! The times for speeches were also increased by one minute in each category. Public speaking is a hard event and it is acknowledged as such. It takes a lot of guts for participants to talk for so long in front of so many people, and then to further talk off the cuff at the finals. Yet year after year we see girls volunteering to speak, to step out of their comfort zone, face their fears and more often than not produce exceptional speeches that make teachers, parents and fellow peers so proud. It takes preparation and commitment to speak publicly and participants put their all into the competition, which showed. Hopefully in future years this outlook is maintained and public speaking continues to be just as successful as it is now.

Ophelia Schilizzi (Year 12, de la Hoyde), Cultural Captain

Bupa Freeway Bike Hike

On Saturday 22 March a number of brave students and their parents completed the Bupa Freeway Bike Hike. Coordinated by Technologies & Commerce Teacher, Mr Michael Fic, the Santa Maria College representative group rode 30km from Kwinana to Perth along the freeway into a strong headwind. The College was presented the award for having the largest number of school participants in this charity event for Asthma.

College News

Lending a hand... Throughout Term 1, the Santa Maria College Service Groups have been carrying out various initiatives that aim to help others in the community. It all began with the Service Expo, held on Wednesday 19 February in the Great Court. The expo gave students the opportunity to view the fun and interesting displays created by the different Service Groups running at the College. The goal of the expo was to encourage students to sign up to one or more of the groups, and it was fantastic to see hundreds of students viewing the expo displays and talking to the Service Group leaders about their respective activities. This certainly laid the foundations for what was to be a busy term of service...

Donation Drive In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Social Justice Group coordinated a highly successful donation drive to promote women’s independence through work. Students and staff were encouraged to donate smart casual clothes that would be suitable in the workplace, to then be donated to a women’s refuge in Perth. The Year 12 Social Justice Group leaders, Amy Hutchison (Dillon), Caitlin Lee (O’Donnell) and Jessica Sidi (de la Hoyde) explain why they chose to implement this new College initiative. “We hear a lot about the social injustices in the world around us but more often than not, we forget that there are Australians suffering as well. Our aim for this donation drive was to help empower Australian women and also encourage the College Community to remember that change does not have to involve grand and elaborate gestures for people on the other side of the world. Change can start with the little things we do for others.”

Clean Up Australia Day On Tuesday 25 February, the Eco Sisters Service Group participated in the annual Clean Up Australia Day activity at Point Walter. Under the supervision of Mrs Court, Mrs Charlton, Mr Hanbidge and Miss Iasky, students from Years 7 to 12 worked together to pick up rubbish ranging from cigarette butts, plastic bags, aluminium cans, food wrappers and batteries. This initiative is a great way of helping ensure that this picturesque reserve remains clean and litter-free.

Project Compassion Each year Santa Maria College donates money to Project Compassion, which raises money for Caritas. This year saw the College raising over $5,000! This was achieved through Homeroom donations, the inaugural Staff versus Student Dodgeball Competition and throughout Paschalibus (Easter Week).

Earth Hour Earth Hour is a global initiative, founded by the World Wildlife Fund, that encourages people to turn off their lights for one hour on Saturday 29 March. This year the theme of Earth Hour was Lights Out for the Reef, to raise awareness on how climate change is affecting the Great Barrier Reef. Santa Maria College participated in Earth Hour a day early, turning off all lights in offices and classrooms during Period 6 on Friday 28 March. Promotional posters were distributed and activities were held in the Great Court to encourage students to participate in Earth Hour at home on the official date.

De La Vida | Term 1 2014

Rock Ya Socks Off!

To kick off the 2014 music season, the Santa Maria College Music Department presented a concert like no other! On Saturday 15 March, the Santa Maria College Concert band, Swing band and Years 10 to 12 class bands performed for family and friends in the McDonald Building. With a two-tiered stage, dance floor and lighting, the audience danced away to classic and contemporary rock songs, followed by a special performance by local Perth band, Something Without Mary, featuring our very own Director of Music, Mr Paul Kinsella. 2014 Music Captain, Alice Kelly (Year 12, O’Reilly), was both excited and proud of the hard work the Music students have put into rehearsals. “Rock Ya Socks Off Concert was a fun and exciting way to showcase the hard work of our talented music students. What made this concert so special was that it featured the instrumental bands as well as the class ensembles from Years 10 to 12 in a more intimate concert setting, which is something that has not been done before.”

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Photo captions 1. Clean Up Australia Day, walking to Point Walter. 2. Donation Drive collection. 3-8. Rock Ya Socks Off Concert.

9 19

College News

Learning beyond the classroom Gone are the days where learning only took place within the confines of the classroom walls. Increasingly, students are being given the opportunity to extend their understanding and knowledge, through various curriculum-based excursions. Below are reflections on some of the learning beyond the classroom highlights of Term 1.

Geography On Tuesday 18 March, the Year 8 cohort went on an excursion to Kings Park. The day was filled with fun activities that we would later use in our upcoming assessment. Some of the activities we completed were biomes, where we looked at native Western Australian plants and how they had adapted to the environment. We also completed a field sketch of the Perth skyline and surrounding areas, noting the physical and cultural features. From the lookout at Kings Park we had an amazing view of the Elizabeth Quay project and we looked at its environmental and human impacts. The next activity was the Amazing Race as we challenged our classmates to be the first back with the correct bearings of various places around Kings Park. Overall, the day was really fun and the weather was nice for a day out in the park. Eva Quattrini (Year 8, Corbett) & Bronte Brandis (Year 8, Frayne) Fieldwork in Year 12 is an essential part of the Geography 3A/3B course and is a highlight in Term 1. The Year 12 students observed and collected data on urban processes and problems in Perth and the Metropolitan area. They viewed the urban village in East Perth, the mixed functions of Northbridge and spent an hour in the Perth Central Business District completing activities and photographing examples of buildings and functions during peak hour

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lunchtime. They walked up to Parliament House via the inner city garden at Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House and viewed the city from the Barrack Archway. West Perth was next on the agenda to view another mixed function area in transition, and then onto Kings Park for data collection on site and situation of the Perth Central Business District. The drive home was very entertaining with the students examining the established residential zones of the western suburbs and testing their real estate knowledge on land values. A final stop on the cliff above Mosman Bay with spectacular views of the city, suburbs and Swan River was a great way to end the field trip. Fieldwork is assessed and proves a valuable resource for students for the WACE examinations. Mrs Claire Newton

Home Economics On Monday 24 March, the Year 10 Fashion & Textiles students took part in an excursion to Stargazey Quilts. Here we met Ms Jan Mullen, who designs and creates a range of interesting and unusual quilt patterns. After showing us some of her designs, Ms Mullen gave us the opportunity to try a sewing technique that we may be able to use when making our own quilts! This excursion was a great experience and we gained a lot of inspiration and enthusiasm for quilt-making. Katelyn Etelaaho (Year 9, Frayne) Photo Captions 1. Year 8 Geography excursion to Kings Park. 2. Year 10 Fashion & Textiles excursion to Stargazey Quilts. 3. Year 8 Science Quest excursion to Scitech Ingenious Festival. 4. Shakespeare Shenanigans incursion. 5. Year 11 Biology Camp.

Recently, the Year 11 and 12 Drama classes were given the opportunity to further immerse ourselves in the performing arts culture of Perth. We attended four performances, Mies Julie, A Midsummer Night’s Dream (As You Like It), The Shadow King and A Streetcar Named Desire. This plethora of engaging performances enabled us to further advance our knowledge and understanding of the performing arts. Along with these performances, Black Swan Theatre Company, in collaboration with Big Sky Entertainment Company came to the school to perform Shakespeare Shenanigans to the Senior School English and Drama students. This play taught us about Shakespeare and his works in an interesting and engaging way, through the use of stage combat and audience involvement. By being immersed in the Perth performing arts culture, our learning experiences were both enriched and broadened.

banks for revegetation projects and ongoing conservation strategies. In addition, the students were fortunate enough to have scientists at the Biodiversity Centre explain their research projects and the vast horticultural activities conducted at Kings Park.

Student Achievements

The Year 8 Science Quest elective students attended the Scitech Ingenious Festival on Thursday 20 March. They took a glimpse of our amazing Solar System at the Horizon Planetarium, listened to talks by scientists who are mixing creativity with science and found out about science courses offered by various universities. In the afternoon, they had the choice of building their own car out of household materials, sailing a yacht on land, building and testing prototype aeroplanes or working as a team to build a giant igloo. The girls all enjoyed learning more about how science can be used to improve the world and some of the careers they may get to try in the future. Mrs Simone Sawiris, Head of Science

Simona La Macchia (Year 12, Kelly)

Science One of the first events of the year was the Year 11 Biology Camp at Perth Hills National Parks Centre in Mundaring. Over the two days, students participated in fieldwork including the Western Shield Monitoring Marsupials trapping session, a night walk through Karakamia Wildlife Sanctuary and used quadrants to sample and identify local wildlife populations. A highlight of the camp was the capture, tag and release of a male Brushtail Possum in the early hours of the morning. The Year 12 Biology students visited the Perth Zoo and Kings Park during their fieldwork excursion on Tuesday 11 March. At the Perth Zoo the students learnt of the importance of native animal breeding programs, which focus on the Numbat, Western Swamp Tortoise and Dibbler. In Kings Park, the students examined techniques used to conserve Western Australian flora. Here, the focus was on seed collection and the storage of seeds in seed

On Tuesday 25 March, the Year 9 Marine Studies class went to the Naturalist Marine Discovery Centre at Hillarys. The first thing we did was visit a lab that smelt rather interesting. The source of the smell turned out to be different types of seaweed and shells that we classified into groups, including the unusually named ‘dead man’s fingers’ and something green and suspicious looking that was actually a seaweed called ‘sea lettuce.’ We also got to visit a touch pool with several sea stars, backward-swimming Morton Bay bugs, colourful sea cucumbers, a sleepy baby shark and sea urchins that tried to snack on our fingers. We learnt about the Leeuwin Current that follows our coastline and has a great impact on the marine environment in Western Australia. We also saw two scientists working to find out the age of fish using the bones from their ears. We learnt lots about the sea, the animals in it and the ways we can protect it on our excursion. Elena Perse (Year 9, Frayne)

De La Vida | Term 1 2014

Performing Arts

College News

Easter Celebrations

Santa Maria College has been celebrating the lead up to Easter with a range of religious, cultural and service-based activities.

Ash Wednesday The Lenten Season began on Wednesday 5 March, when staff and students celebrated Ash Wednesday. Before Homeroom, the Year 12 Eucharistic Ministers distributed ashes at a Liturgy in the College Chapel for staff. Each Homeroom then conducted their own Liturgy, with a Eucharistic Minister visiting them to distribute ashes, making a cross on each student’s forehead and saying the words, “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.”

Easter Egg Collection

This Lenten Season, the Young Vinnies Service Group came up with a way to bring some Easter cheer to the students at the English Intensive Centre at Thornlie Primary School, as well as to raise funds for the St Vincent de Paul Camp for Kids. The group collected 110 Easter eggs, and delivered them to the Primary School during Week 10 and spent time with the students who are from refugee backgrounds. The group then raffled off the rest of the collected Easter chocolate at Santa Maria College, with all raffle proceeds going to the St Vincent de Paul Camp for Kids. Three of the Year 11 Santa Maria Young Vinnies Service Group members will be attending these camps as volunteer leaders during 2014.

Paschalibus Paschalibus means “Easter Week” in Latin, and was celebrated for the first time at Santa Maria College during Week 9. The Cultural Committee, led by Cultural Captain, Ophelia Schilizzi (Year 12, de la Hoyde), organised a variety of events during this week to raise awareness of the different ways in which Easter is celebrated around the world. This included a whole College Easter Egg Hunt, students dressed up in Finnish Easter Witch costumes, Poisson D’Avril - the celebration of April Fool’s Day the French way - with all donations raised going towards Project Compassion.

Easter Choral Concert On Thursday 27 March the Music Department held its annual Easter Choral Concert with each of the Choirs and Chorales from Years 5 to 12 performing to an appreciative audience of over 400 family and friends.

The first half of the program featured the contemporary works the Choirs have been preparing this term. The second half of the evening had an Easter focus, with the Chorales performing a variety of Sacred works. The String Orchestra also performed their instrumental repertoire as well as Mozart’s beautiful Ave Verum Corpus for Choir and Orchestra. It was a lovely evening of choral and orchestral music and a wonderful way to round out a very busy term of performances.

Easter Liturgy The annual Easter Liturgy is a time for the College Community to reflect on our Lenten journey, almsgiving and the significance of Holy Week. The Year 12 Leadership group led the College in prayer and reflection in the McDonald Building on Thursday 10 April. The Liturgy incorporated sacred music, symbolic action, prayer and readings from the Scripture.

Photo Captions 1. Young Vinnies with their Easter Egg Raffle. 2. Poisson D’Avril, during Paschalibus. 3. Students in Finnish Easter Witch costumes, collecting money for Project Compassion, during Paschalibus. 4. Easter Liturgy.

We would like to acknowledge and congratulate the following students on their various achievements: Isabelle Appleton (Year 5, O’Donnell) and Bianca Zoiti (Year 5, Dillon), who were selected in the Calisthenics Association of Western Australia’s State Team for 2014 and will be competing in the Australian Calisthenic Federation’s 26th National Championships in Melbourne during July. Meg Hebiton (Year 6, Dillon), who came second place at the State Athletics Carnival, where she participated in shot-put, 100m, 800m, long jump and 60m hurdles. Geordie Sicree (Year 7, O’Reilly), who was selected to be part of the Australian Junior Sailing Team and competed in the Asian Games in Bahrain in late March. Abigail Bell (Year 8, Dillon), who represented Western Australia in the State Under 15s Hockey Team in Hobart. Lily Gresele (Year 8, Frayne), who has received a Gymnastics Program scholarship at WAIS. Sarah Kelly (Year 8, O’Reilly) and Jane Fruzynski (Year 8, Kelly), who competed in the 13-15 team at the National Synchronised Swimming Competition in Brisbane during April. Marnie Kennedy (Year 7, O’Reilly) also competed as both a member of the 13-15 team and as a soloist. Abby Ouwendyk (Year 8, Byrne), who competed in both the National Triathlon Competition and the National Water Polo Championships in Melbourne during April. Myah Perer (Year 8, Dillon) and Saskia Race (Year 8, Dillon), who competed in the Under 14s National Water Polo League in Melbourne during April.

Arrivederci! Italian Language Assistants Mara Varisco and Laura Vietri joined us here at Santa Maria College as assistants during Term 1 to help in the classroom with various aspects of Italian language and culture. It has been wonderful having these two bright and talented girls here to share their knowledge of all things Italian with us. They have also created many good resources that we will be able to use in our classrooms.

Sachi de Graaf (Year 9, Frayne), who competed in the Australian Dancesport Championships in Melbourne during December 2013. Emily Hardbottle (Year 9, Corbett), who won the HBF Junior Sport Hero Volunteer Commitment Award for her involvement in the Melville Wheelchair Sports Program. Emily Hutchinson (Year 9, Corbett), Abbey Scudds (Year 9, Corbett) and Elise Scudds (Year 9, Corbett), who won the Robogals National Awards in Melbourne in late 2013. Lauren Hyde-Cooling (Year 9, O’Donnell), who won Silver in pole vaulting at the Australian Junior Championships Under 15s in Sydney during March. Janine Ong (Year 9, Dillon), who travelled to Melbourne in December 2013 to participate in the Australian Catholic Youth Festival. Breanna Spencer (Year 10, O’Donnell), who has been accepted into the Junior Exchange Sailing Scheme Tour and will tour Europe as one of six young sailors representing Western Australia in three different regattas. Paige Spence (Year 11, O’Reilly), who won the Best Secondary Video Game category of the ACMI Screen It Competition, and classmate Danielle Bailly (Year 11, Byrne), who was one of three runners-up in late 2013. Josie Oetiker (Year 12, O’Reilly) and Kathleen Sullivan (Year 12, Dillon) who attended the National Youth Science Forum during January. Jessica Sidi (Year 12, de la Hoyde), who has been awarded the 2014 Zonta International Young Women in Public Affairs Club Award. Amber Withers (Year 12, de la Hoyde), who is one of six finalists in the upcoming State Finals of the Lions Youth of the Year Competition.

The Assistants Program is made possible by an association with an Italian University in Milan and our Italian Teacher’s Association here in Western Australia. Laura and Mara have been hosted by the Sharp and Zaninovich families here at the College. I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to them for their care, hospitality and friendliness shown to the girls. It will be a sad day when they leave, but we hope they take with them many happy memories of their time here. Ms Connie Quattrini, Head of Languages

De La Vida | Term 1 2014

Student Achievements

Junior School News

Head of Junior School’s Message

Year 5 Reflection Day

Earlier this year the Junior School welcomed seventy-four new Year 5 students and three Year 6 students into the College Community.

While the rest of the school attended the Interhouse Swimming Carnival, the Junior School headed to the Sawle Literature & Research Centre, Level 1 for a team-building fun day! The theme of the day was ‘We’re All In This Together.’ It was a day to get to know each other and make some new friends in our Year group.

The ‘old’ girls have embraced the 2014 College value of Hospitality and have been very welcoming of the new students. It always takes some time for the newer students to feel part of the College Community and, by now, many should feel that the College is familiar territory. To assist with the transition of the Year 5 students into the College, a day of reflection was held in February, where the students shared their understanding of ‘We’re All In This Together,’ performed some dance moves, shared lunch and meditated together. During Term 1 the students have experienced many opportunities to showcase their sporting abilities. The Junior School Swimming Carnival was held early in the term and the girls have since undertaken lessons in the pool. The results of these lessons were on display when the girls competed in the IPSHA Swimming Carnivals held recently. Year 6 students were invited for the first time, to be part of the Interhouse Public Speaking Competition. The girls prepared speeches on a given topic in order to participate in the heats evening. Eight students progressed to the finals where they delivered their speech and were then required to prepare and deliver an impromptu speech of two minutes duration. All students were well prepared and the standard of the speeches was very high. Term 2 promises to offer many new opportunities for the students to experience and extend themselves outside their comfort zones. We look forward to seeing how these challenges are taken up and dealt with over the coming months.

Mrs Andrea Dopson Head of Junior School

After some getting to know you activities, we read two storybooks. The Invisible String was about our connections to people who would be there for us when we need them, like our family and teachers. The other book, One, was about friendship, dealing with bullying and being the ‘one’ to make a difference. Halfway through the day we performed our Year 5 reflection dance, ”We’re All In This Together” from the movie High School Musical. It was so much fun! Each class choreographed a section in our dance classes. In the afternoon we had a rest with meditation, learning to calm our bodies down. To conclude our day we each drew a self-portrait and glued this onto a big canvas to hang in Mrs Dopson’s office. The whole day was really awesome and we all made new friends. A special thanks must go to Mrs Machell and all the teachers for organising such a great day. Monique D’Amato (Year 5, O’Reilly) & Olivia Reeve (Year 5, Kelly)

Year 6 IPSHA Swimming Carnival On Tuesday 18 March, Year 6 students went to St Hilda’s to compete in the Year 6 IPSHA Swimming Carnival. The St Hilda’s pool was enormous and quite new. After we arrived the races started. We had some recess and lunch breaks in between which allowed us to rest after our races. All the competitors were nervous and excited. We all cheered each other on and were happy for each other. Overall the Year 6s had a great day and a lots of fun. We did really well in our swimming and a lot of us won races. We thank the Year 6 Teachers for accompanying us and helping throughout the carnival. We appreciate your hard work and organisation. Amber Komaromi (Year 6, O’Donnell)

Year 5 Fashion Parade On Friday 7 February, Year 5 classes came together to participate in a fashion parade. Groups of five to six students were formed, with each group having to design a wedding dress that would then be shown to the rest of the Year 5s. Each group were able to use a roll of crepe paper, a newspaper, a roll of tape, feathers and a square piece of crepe paper. Each group chose one person to be the model. The job of the model was to stand still while the rest of the group made the wedding dress on her, with a thirty minute time limit. Once the time ran out the teachers created a cat walk out of tape on the carpet. The models stood outside and when it was their go they walked through the door and did some lovely poses, plus they got their picture taken. I think all the groups worked well and the dresses looked fabulous! This day had to be one of my favourites for the year! Milah Chanter (Year 5, O’Reilly)

International Women’s Day On International Women’s Day the Junior School were privileged to have staff member, past student and Winter Olympian, Miss Lucy Chaffer (Class of 2000), come talk to us. She spoke about how she has always enjoyed sport and how she became involved in the sport of skeleton. We were allowed to touch and feel Miss Chaffer’s Olympic race suit, shoes and helmet. We also had the opportunity to ask lots of questions about her life and her time in Russia. Miss Chaffer said she thoroughly enjoyed her Winter Olympics experience and made many friends along the way. We learnt a lot about Miss Chaffer and everyone enjoyed her talk. Celine Ng (Year 6, Frayne)

Excursion to Parliament House On Tuesday 25 February, Year 6 students went to Parliament House and the Western Australian Constitution Centre. We were all very excited and could not wait to get our tour of Parliament House. When we arrived at the Constitution Centre each class got taken by someone to do some activities. Those activities taught us all about the Federation of Australia, and how the Parliament works. When we went to Parliament House we got to meet some politicians and one lucky class, 6.7, saw the beginning of the debate. Overall we had an awesome day and learnt lots of new information. Holly Smith (Year 6, Kelly) & Tiah Jervis (Year 6, Corbett)

Photo captions 1. Year 5 Reflection Day. 2-3. Year 5 Fashion Parade. 4. Year 5 IPSHA Swimming Carnival. 5. Year 6s outside Parliament House.

De La Vida | Term 1 2014

Middle School News 1

Head of Middle School’s Message ‘I belong, I explore, I strive’ are the tags for our Year 7, 8 and 9 students. This term has provided girls in Middle School with many great opportunities to belong, explore and strive. The Year 7s had a slow transition into Santa Maria with many interesting activities. This enabled the girls to get to know the College and the way it works, along with many fun activities, which encouraged new friendships. With new boarders joining our Year 8 cohort there has been much exploring of new friendships. This Year group have also stepped up to the new challenges given to them in their Pastoral and Academic Programs – there is much exploring to be done. Year 9s have begun their Strive9 year long journey, looking at how they can create and implement a social action project within their Homeroom. With a focus on our 2014 Mercy value of Hospitality I look forward to the girls in Middle School welcoming others and making the most of every opportunity presented to them academically, socially, spiritually, physically and culturally – there are so many opportunities for each girl to shine!

Mrs Tracy Webster Head of Middle School

Year 7 Orientation The start of Year 7 has been jam packed with many opportunities and events for the girls to explore their surroundings, create new friendships and work towards feeling like they belong in the Middle School. The term began with the very successful Transition Program where the girls spent the week settling into their Homeroom groups. During this week they participated in many get to know you games and team building activities. They learnt to find their way around the College, understand their timetable, which teachers they would have, along with the many daily routines and procedures.

Ms Amber Stieber, Head of Year 7

Year 7 Camp Earlier this term the Year 7s set out on an adventure they will not soon forget! Thanks to Ms Stieber and the Year 7 Homeroom Teachers, we were able to take a break from school and bond with new people while doing fun activities, down at Dwellingup Adventures. Sure, for some of us camping in tents was a bit of a challenge, but we pulled through. We also spent a couple nights at the lodge. Being close to the river we did many water based activities, such as flat water rafting, raft building, raft riot and reverse rain. We also went onto the low ropes course and did many team building activities requiring tactical and practical thinking, teamwork, communication and leadership. Overall, camp was possibly one of the best experiences of my life. I tried so many new things. I have never ever been so dirty and my white clothes looked like they were brown. I am absolutely positive the rest of the girls feel the same way about our experiences on camp. Isi Ogwu (Year 7, Kelly) & Natasha Stevens (Year 7, Kelly)

Photo Captions 1. Year 8 Alternative Learning Day. 2-3. Year 9 Alternative Learning Day. 4. Year 8 Integration Afternoon. 5. Year 7 Camp.

I had the pleasure of participating in the Year 8 Integration Afternoon on Friday 7 February. This event enabled the girls who are new to Santa Maria College to meet other girls in their year. Before our activities began we gathered together for a delicious afternoon tea. When we had finished our afternoon tea Mrs Fisher and Mrs Webster took us down to the McDonald Building to play games. Some of the fun games we played were, word find, trivia quiz, cup castle, frisbee, volleyball and puzzles. After our indoor games we moved outside to play the Amazing Race. When it was time to say goodbye we were all happy because we had made new friends. Thank you Mrs Fisher and Mrs Webster for this wonderful experience. Ruby Mavrick (Year 8, de la Hoyde)

Alternative Learning Days All Year 7s participated in the Year 7 Alternative Learning Day. This day is designed to allow students to meet and spend time with girls from the other seven Homerooms. On this day the girls mixed together, laughed and shared stories while learning how to rock climb in Northbridge. They also watched a performance from Class Act Theatre Company that focused on getting along, not judging a book by its cover and the importance of accepting all people for who they are. Ms Amber Stieber, Head of Year 7 The Year 8s worked on goal setting for our Alternative Learning Day. For the first part of the day we were sectioned off into our House groups and we made dream catchers with paper plates, coloured feathers and cotton string. Once we had made our dream catchers we wrote our goals for 2014 around the edges. The dream catchers symbolised letting the positive into your life and the catching and discarding of negativity. After we finished that we wrote letters to our Homeroom Teachers telling them a few more things about us, for example our interests, traits and talents. After that

we went to the Sawle Literature & Research Centre, Level 1 to learn about different learning styles and how we could incorporate these styles when we studied. We worked out if we were kinesthetic, visual or auditory learners and were then taught the best methods to use when studying. We also did brainstorming as groups about the topic on big sheets of paper and put our ideas together. Then we went to learn about SMART goals with Mrs Rees. She taught us that a smart goal means that the goal had to be S- specific, M- measurable, A- achievable, R- realistic and T- time bound. Then we rethought about our goals and made them smart goals we wanted to achieve in 2014. Following that we went to the theatre to watch a performance by the Big Hoo-Haa. They are a group of people that do a comedy performance where all the content is improvised. They asked us for ideas, words, actions and names that they used in little skits and games. They were really fun to watch and everyone enjoyed watching. Myah Perer (Year 8, Dillon) On Friday 21 February, the Year 9s participated in our Alternative Learning Day. This day included team building activities and planning some random acts of kindness we could do for our family and friends. We also spent time planning and painting our Strive9 Homeroom banners. The most enjoyable part of the day was painting the banners, because everyone was able to contribute their ideas and be crafty. The winning banner was from Kelly House, although there was stiff competition from all of the Houses! During the same week, the Year 9s had their introduction to the Strive9 Program. On this day, each Homeroom brainstormed broad project topic ideas. We discussed things that make us sad, mad and worried. We also examined our values, with the goal of determining the five key values for each Homeroom. By the end of term, each Homeroom had submitted a broad topic for their Strive9 project. We will then investigate this further in Term 2. It was fun to be able to work together with our Homerooms as a team and bond more with each other. Amy Ross (Year 9, Corbett)

De La Vida | Term 1 2014

Year 8 Integration Afternoon

Senior School News 2 1

Year 10 Reflection Day

& Research Centre, Level 1.

The theme for the Year 10 Reflection Day was ‘We are Called to Serve.’ The Year 10s celebrated Mass at the start of the day with Year 10 Homeroom Teachers and visitors to the College. After Mass they were treated to drinks and pastries on the Terrace. Throughout the day, students explored our call as Christians to serve others and had the opportunity to learn more about Catherine McAuley and Ursula Frayne. Later in the afternoon they were introduced to the Mercy Service Learning Program. Presenters were Mrs Carrick, Ms O’Connor, Ms Allis, Sister Marg Lipsett, Mrs Winkler, Mr Stock and Mrs Landers. The Reflection Day ended fittingly with a Liturgy in the College Chapel. It was a valuable learning day for the Year 10s, who found it both interesting and enjoyable. A special thank you to Mrs Carrick for organising the Reflection Day and ensuring the day ran smoothly. Mrs Claire Newton, Head of Year 10

Pastoral Care Programs Year 10 students are engaged in the Mercy Wellbeing Program based on Martin Seligman’s renowned philosophy of positive psychology. The program is based on the Twenty Four Strengths, and teaches students to identify and use their top five strengths to work on achieving the best possible outcome in all aspects of school and life, and to work on improving their other strengths. Recently, the whole staff attended a Mercy Wellbeing Conference at the College, and the language and skills of positive psychology are being incorporated across the board to underpin best teaching practice and imbue the students with a strengths based approach to learning and life. This whole school philosophy reinforces the delivery of the program in Pastoral Care Time, where Homeroom Teachers focus on a different strength each week such as curiosity, persistence, putting it in perspective, social intelligence and mindfulness. Students are journaling their responses and reflections and have produced portrait posters expressing positive emotions such as happiness, zest and joy which are on display in the Sawle Literature

The Year 10 PosED Wiki for students contains information about the Pastoral Care Program, essential examination preparation materials, cybersafety survival skills and anti-bullying messages. Students and parents are strongly encouraged to read the Wiki and discuss its contents. Mrs Claire Newton Head of Year 10 Following on from the Year 10 Mercy Wellbeing Program, the Year 11 Pastoral Care Program focuses on the theme of ‘Empowering Women.’ Throughout the year, students will listen to a variety of guest speakers who will share their stories of success, as well as the difficulties they may have encountered as women, and give advice on how to potentially navigate a similar pathway. We have chosen women from a myriad of areas, including business, fashion, modelling, media, theatre, politics, writers, directors, stand up comedians, actresses, Olympians, scientists, artists, musicians, working mothers, stay at home mothers and volunteer workers. One thing they all have in common is they are past students of Santa Maria College. It is hoped each of our girls will connect with at least one of the guest speakers, and that they will realise each one of these accomplished women once sat where they sit today. This term we have been fortunate to listen to Shayana Raat (Class of 2000), who graduated from Curtin University with a Commerce degree and who has had a successful career in fashion and modelling and now runs her own business, Seri Naturals. We also were visited by Ailsa Piper (Class of 1978), former Head Girl who has been a writer, actor, teacher and director and recently published a book, Sinning Across Spain. Finally, we had Judith Lucy (Class of 1985). Judith is a well-known writer and stand up comedian, who is currently in the process of filming a documentary titled, She’s All Woman. We are grateful for these women giving up their time to speak to the Year 11s, and are excited about our upcoming speakers who include Carmen Lawrence (Class of 1964), Geraldine Doogue (Class of 1968) and Lucy Chaffer (Class of 2000). Mr Paul Morris, Head of Year 11

On Saturday 8 February, the Year 12 Ball was held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. It was a golden opportunity for the Year 12 girls to have fun before launching into the arduous year ahead. Months of preparation preceded the big event. “Mr Appropriate” was carefully chosen and girls found beautiful dresses after scouring a range of stores and then coordinated their partners into matching suits. Makeup appointments were booked, hairdressing salons were called, and blisters were formed from wearing in the new shoes. Of course, there was also the chaos of organising the limousines and even trams. And let’s not forget the photos - at least a thousand photo albums could be filled with all the pictures taken. Every single girl looked stunning. We will look back at the photographs of this night and remember a wonderful journey. At the hotel we were greeted by Mr Elder, Ms Jansen and Head Girl, Amber Withers (Year 12, de la Hoyde), before enjoying a mocktail. On entering the main Ballroom, we were greeted with the most exquisite decorations. Purple and blue lighting created an almost dreamlike quality. The tables were set out with glass candelabras and the stage was adorned with cherry trees radiating with tiny lights. To officially begin, Amber gave a beautiful welcome speech and we were led in grace by Liturgy Captain, Meg Flugge (Year 12, Dillon). The food was delicious - a Thai beef salad, chicken and roast vegetables, and a raspberry and chocolate cake to finish. Photos were taken all throughout the evening

and the DJ ensured that the dance floor was very well worn by everyone - despite the ten inches most girls had gained in height for the night. It is safe to say that the 2014 Santa Maria Year 12 Ball was definitely ‘A Night of Elegance’ and every single girl took away from it a sense of belonging, satisfaction and inspiration for their last year of high school. Ophelia Schilizzi (Year 12, de la Hoyde) & Lucy Franklin (Year 12, Frayne)

Photo Captions 1. Year 10 Reflection Day. 2. Year 11s with Shayana Raat (Class of 2000). 3. Year 11s with Ailsa Piper (Class of 1978). 4. Year 10 Alternative Learning Day. 5-7. Year 12 Ball.

De La Vida | Term 1 2014

An Evening of Elegance...

Community News 1

Parent Council Chairâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message The primary function of the Santa Maria College Parent Council is to enhance the links between parents, students and staff to strengthen the feeling of belonging and pride, as well as to encourage parent involvement, in the Santa Maria College Community. The Parent Council are currently seeking another additional general member. Should you be interested please contact Mrs Karen Bickerton T: 6330 0230 or E: bickerton.karen@santamaria.wa.edu.au. The Parent Council is extremely excited to announce the allocation of the 2013 Parent Council Levy. Directional signage has been purchased for the College and a large directional art piece has been constructed and sits outside the McAuley Building. This has an illuminated map of the College grounds for visitors, families and students to utilise. Finally, cushioned bench seats have been constructed for student use in the Mercy Building; the colours of the bench seats reflect the colours of the floor covering on each level. On behalf of the Parent Council I would like to thank the families who contributed to the Parent Council Levy in 2013 and 2014. We are currently in discussion with students, staff and parents as to how the 2014 levy can be allocated. In conclusion, on behalf of the Parent Council I would like to sincerely thank the Sunset at Santa Organising Committee and all those who supported the event. It was unfortunate the event had to be cancelled. However, I would like to reassure the College Community, the Parent Council will continue to strive to create opportunities for parents and students to interact, contribute and belong to the extended College Community.

Mrs Sue McLennan-Atkins Chair, Parent Council

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De La Vida | Term 1 2014

Welcome parents! On Monday 3 February, our new parents gathered on the Terrace to enjoy the annual Parents Welcoming Morning Tea. In a perfect example of hospitality, the Parent Network volunteers served tea and coffee while new parents spent time getting to know one another in a relaxed and informal environment. The welcoming continued in Boarding later that afternoon, with eighty boarding parents joining the College Management Team for the annual Boarding Parents Sundowner in the Boarding Recreation Centre. These events give parents and staff an invaluable opportunity to get to know one another better.

Wagin Woolorama On Saturday Friday 7 and Saturday 8 March Santa Maria College was represented at the Wagin Woolorama Agricultural Show. Head of Boarding, Ms Linda Bulloch and College Registrar, Mrs Janice Hewett, used this opportunity to speak with current boarding families, past students and prospective families.

Father Daughter Walk to School Morning Friday 21 March saw over 250 parents and daughters switching their cars for their feet, as part of the annual Father Daughter Walk to School Morning. Organised by the Mozzies, the morning encouraged parents to walk their daughters to school and then join them for breakfast on the Terrace. With fresh food and beverages, the crowd enjoyed catching up with one another, with a few lucky dads taking out door prizes. This has become a special event on the College Community calendar, and presents students and their families with the perfect opportunity to fit in some exercise and the perfect warm-up to the Interhouse Cross Country held on the same morning!

College Tour Days Santa Maria College opened its gates to four hundred prospective families over Friday 4 and Saturday 5 April for the College Tour Days. Upon arrival, the prospective families were greeted with tea and coffee served by the Parent Network volunteers in Riverside, McDonald Building, before being greeted with presentations by Principal, Mr Ian Elder and other prominent staff and students. This was followed by a tour of the College grounds, with current students serving as Tour Guides, leading small groups of families around the College, answering their questions and sharing with them their experiences of life at Santa Maria. Photo Captions 1. Directional signage art piece. 2. Bench seats on second level of Mercy Building. 3. Father Daughter Walk to School Morning. 4-6. Parents Welcoming Morning Tea. 7. Boarding Parents Sundowner.

Old Girls’ Association News

Old Girls’ Association President’s Message After a very busy and rewarding 75th Anniversary year in 2013, the Old Girls’ Association Committee would like to thank everyone involved and those who contributed to our special projects including the cookbook, video and celebratory events. Anniversary celebrations are a great time for reflection, sharing of memories, reviewing the past and realising just how quickly time goes by. This year the College celebrates the value of Hospitality - the cornerstone of Mercy values and the spirit of Catherine McAuley. The Old Girls’ Association is known for its hospitality, welcoming past students back to the College to events such as reunions and special functions. Events in 2014 include eight reunions (one planned for Melbourne on Saturday 6 September), the Mother Daughter High Tea in May and our Mercy Day Celebrations in September. The Committee are also working on a revised ‘scholarship program’ by developing a project or series of projects funded by the Old Girls’ Association and providing opportunities for girls in the areas of self development and discovery, character building, spiritual and personal growth, empowerment, service, confidence and leadership. Such a project requires extensive research and discussion and the Committee look forward to reporting our progress in the next edition of the De La Vida. If you have not yet purchased a cookbook or would like to purchase copies for your family and friends, they are still available through the College for $35. Contact the Community Relations Department for information on how to purchase T: 6330 0230. The books are a lovely memento with historical photos and amazing ‘favourite’ recipes which are all easy to cook.

Ms Danielle Cattalini President, Old Girls’ Association

Save the Date Santa Maria College are hosting a reunion for our Eastern States alumni in Melbourne on

Saturday 6 September 2014. If you live in Melbourne or can make it to Melbourne we would love to see you! Spread the word and keep the date free. More details soon. If you would like to help us organise the reunion from Melbourne or know of a great venue (city based) please contact Karen Bickerton T: 08 6330 0230 or E: events@santamaria.wa.edu.au

De La Vida | Term 1 2014

2009 Reunion On Saturday 8 March, over fifty graduates from the Class of 2009 returned to the College for their five year reunion. The girls enjoyed seeing the completed McDonald Building, which was still in construction at the time of their graduation, before heading to the Mercy Community Room to reminice about their school days and what they have achieved since. It was lovely to have these ladies back at the College, and look forward to seeing them back here for their ten year reunion in 2019!

Where are they now?

Lucy Chaffer (Class of 2000)

Jacynta Blake (Class of 2009)

Santa Maria College would like to extend their congratulations to former student and current staff member, Lucy Chaffer, who recently represented Australia at the Sochi Winter Olympics in the sport of skeleton. Well done

“Since leaving Santa Maria College I have found my calling in Medical Imaging Science. This year I complete my thesis, full time placement and specialisation in MRI and paediatrics. This degree has brought me so much knowledge, wisdom and joy, and many great experiences including the opportunity to work at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Scotland!

Lucy! Dianne Taylor (Class of 1983)

Whilst at uni I have become a qualified paint expert at Bunnings and I have had numerous fantastic experiences travelling through the United Kingdom, Europe, South East Asia, New Zealand and all over Australia which has really broadened my knowledge and culture.”

“For the last thirty years, I have trained and worked in hospitality. I have finally reached a position as a head chef and love my job immensely. My partner of twenty-seven years and I have three adult children, with our eldest married and living in America. We travel overseas regularly with family and friends. I still keep in touch with my closest friends from boarding school.”

Megan Da Silva (Class of 2008)

Robyn Travers (Class of 1973)

Through the ACCESS pathway at Santa Maria (formerly known as Instep), Megan learnt the ins and outs of running a business, and was inspired by the entrepreneurs that she worked with. As a result, she has recently established her own business, Hunt Over, an online clothing and accessories store that also has a warehouse component located in Myaree where customers can try on clothes before purchasing.

“I attended UWA 1974 to 1976 for a Bachelor of Arts in History, then a Graduate Diploma of Education at Nedlands Teachers College. I have worked as a high school teacher/curriculum officer since 1978 in government and private schools both in the city and country. I completed a Masters in Education in 2000 and am currently working as a Level 3 classroom teacher. I have travelled to South East Asia, Europe (a couple of times), New Zealand, Ghana and Morocco. I ski each year and am a passionate Collingwood member. I took up golf in 2002, and am now a member at Royal Fremantle Golf Club. Hope to retire soon so I can play more golf and ski more mountains.”

Samantha Holt (Class of 2010) Congratulations to Samantha on being part of the Perth Phoenixes Quidditch team, who won the Oceania Regional Championships in December 2013 and competed in the Quidditch World Cup VII in South Carolina in April. Johanna Vincent (Class of 2006) The College is very proud of Johanna, for receiving the Western Australian Fullbright Postgraduate Scholarship for 2014. She will be studying a Masters of Law at an Ivy League College in the United States. Johanna attributes much of her interest in law with the education she received at Santa Maria. “I often look back on my time at Santa Maria College with fond memories. My History, Political & Legal Studies and English Literature Teachers in particular played a formative role in guiding me towards a legal career. They instilled in me a life-long commitment to pursue wisdom and a desire to always give every endeavour in life my very best.”

Vale Lauren Serl (Class of 2003) Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Lauren Serl, who passed away on 25 January 2014.

Weddings Congratulations to the following past students who were married in the College Chapel recently: Sarah Adeney (Class of 2004) to Luke Nofal on Saturday 30 November 2013. Anna South (Class of 2003) to Luke McKenzie on Saturday 22 March

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