Mandevillian, 2019, Vol34, No1 by Loreto Toorak

Mandevillian

JUNE 2019 VOLUME. 34 NO. 1

Contents LEADERSHIP 2

SOCIAL JUSTICE

Introducing Loreto 2020

Sr Orla Treacy ibvm 27

Head of Schoolgirls Regatta

CURRICULUM

MUSIC 32

ACHIEVEMENTS 40

NASA Junior Space Camp

Music News

Celebrating our Achievements

RATHFARNHAM

PERFORMING ARTS

Young Engineers Program

Celebrating 40 years of the PAF

Loreto Mandeville Hall Toorak 10 Mandeville Crescent Toorak Victoria Australia 3142 +61 3 9823 8100 www.loretotoorak.vic.edu.au

LoretoToorak

Loreto__Toorak

LoretoToorak

Loreto-Toorak

34 34

SPORT 38

COMMUNITY

Women In Time

Designer & Editor

Contributors

Tailem Tynan Communications Coordinator

Dr Susan Stevens Principal

Printer

Michelle McCarty Director of Mission & Leadership Judy Reid Director of Engagement Katrina Dyer, Danielle Lord, Louise McNamara, Annette Rinaudo Engagement Office Melindy Green Head of Marketing & Communications

DMC Group Photography Tailem Tynan Mark Chew Photography Julieanne Perara Photography National Photography Student/Staff/Parent Contributions

Cover: A suspended kinetic work, made from steel and synthetic parchment, featured above the gallery space within the Mandeville Centre. Dimensions: 26 metres x 5 metres. Designer: Marc Rogerson.

Welcome

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

FROM OUR ACTING PRINCIPAL

As educators at Loreto Toorak, we do more than just impart knowledge; we encourage our students to be joyful learners, to celebrate the small things and know that there is always opportunity for growth. In collaboration with families, we have both the privilege and responsibility of developing character in young women, so it is important that we also reflect on the type of person we want our students to be; that they model the Loreto values of sincerity, felicity and verity, inspired to value freedom and justice.

In collaboration with families, we have both the privilege and responsibility of developing character in young women. In this edition of the Mandevillian you will find many examples of joyful celebration; students flourishing in so many areas - language, culture and the performing arts. You can read about our vision for continued improvement, innovative practice and exciting STEM opportunities. There is evidence of core Loreto values, with our connection to social justice. We also celebrate the lives and stories of our past students and their families. We are blessed to be a part of such a wonderful, vibrant community.

ANGELA Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;DWYER ACTING PRINCIPAL 1

Leadership

Outstanding VCE Results Congratulations to the graduating Class of 2018. Together, as a cohort, the results of their academic endeavours throughout the year are outstanding. We celebrate their achievements; in working together, cooperatively and collaboratively, with each other and with their teachers, they have achieved much. With pride, we further congratulate all students who have received top honours in an individual subject or in overall academic excellence. Our 2018 Duces of School, Lily Li and Sylvia Sherborne, who both achieved an ATAR of 99.7, are to be warmly congratulated. The Class of 2018 achieved five perfect study scores across five subjects. Further, 6.5% of our students achieved an ATAR above 99.00, which is an exceptional result. More than 48% of the cohort achieved an ATAR of 90.00 or 2

above, and impressively, for 76% of our students to be in the top 20% of the state is remarkable on any measure. These fine results are well deserved for the students of 2018 who worked so diligently and consistently throughout the year. Our school community stands together as one in congratulating our students, and thanking our dedicated and inspiring teachers. These fine Loreto Toorak graduates now have their choice of post-school experiences, and will no doubt continue to build on this firm foundation in deciding their next exciting step. Without doubt we know that these women will contribute to a better world, in some significant way, in the future. They are Loreto Toorak graduates, Loreto women. We wish them well. Above: High Achievers with ATAR 99+. Back (L-R): Niamh Boyd-Squires Long, Athena Prokopis, Meagan Roff, Sylvia Sherborne. Front: Sophia Baldi, Lily Li, Sarah Ho. Absent: Fiona Zhu.

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

Academic Highlights Highlights

Perfect Scores

•

Outstanding median ATAR of 89.90

•

6.5% of students attained an ATAR of 99+ (top 1% )

We congratulate the following students who received a perfect study score of 50.

•

26% of students attained an ATAR of 95+ (top 5%)

Sophia Baldi, Business Management

•

48% of students attained an ATAR of 90+ (top 10%)

Niamh Boyd-Squires Long, English

•

76% of students attained an ATAR of 80+ (top 20%)

•

93% of students attained an ATAR of 70+ (top 30%)

•

27% of study scores were 40+

Zoe Keeghan (Year 11), Psychology Tereza Ljubicic (Year 11), Croatian Fiona Zhu, Chinese Language Culture and Society

Of the 108 students in the Class of 2018, 100% of the cohort who applied through VTAC for tertiary placement received a first round offer. Of those that applied, 96% of students received either their first, second or third preference.

Institutions ACU

Deakin

11%

Latrobe

Melbourne

21%

Monash

53%

RMIT

12%

RMIT (TAFE)

Swinburne

Areas of Study Architecture

Arts/Humanities

32%

Biomedicine

Business

30%

Creative

18%

Education

Engineering

Health

16%

Law

Science

19%

This year has seen an increase in the popularity of Monash University, with 48% of our cohort choosing it as their preferred destination. A total of 20% of students have elected to study at the University of Melbourne, with a correlation of more students choosing double degrees at Monash University rather than the Melbourne Model at the University of Melbourne. The trend towards double degrees continues strongly with 30% of the cohort choosing this direction, giving them multiple pathways upon graduation. Applicants to Deakin University have also increased, with a stable cohort of students electing to study at other universities and TAFEs. This year shows an increased interest in students enrolling in Health and Science degrees. Overall, the interest in STEM courses is increasing, with up to 45% of students electing to study in this area, including the Health domain. Engineering and IT have a solid following with several Science students interested in post-graduate study. Business and Commerce has firmed as a desired double degree option, with 22% of students choosing this interest area. As always, the spread of courses is varied, from Theatre Studies, Production, Medicine, Dentistry, Screen Production, Banking and Finance, Building Design as well as the traditional areas of Commerce, Arts, Science and Health. 3

LEADERSHIP

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

Duces of School Our Dux of School Assembly is an annual tradition when the School proudly recognises and celebrates the outstanding achievements of the graduating class. On this occasion, we honoured our 2018 Duces of School who both achieved an ATAR of 99.7, Lily Li and Sylvia Sherborne, our Duces of Subjects, students who received Perfect Scores of 50 and other special prize winners and high achieving students. An excerpt from each Dux Address is presented below.

Sylvia Sherborne

Lily Li

It is so heart-warming looking back over the eight years I spent at Loreto Toorak and seeing how much I’ve grown up from those Velcro shoes, ballet buns, little swatch watch and Nokia. Much has changed, but what always remained constant was my eagerness to be involved and to excel. Loreto Toorak taught me so much, both academically and personally, and I could not have asked for a more supportive and dynamic community in which to learn. I was always conscious of taking up opportunities for personal growth alongside my studies, which subsequently involved having a very full diary. I loved feeling like a valued and contributing member to our School.

When I walked in through the school gates for the first time, I couldn’t help but feel nervous. However, my worries were soon dispelled as I was met with the warmth of the students and staff. I remember going home happy that I had made new friends, enjoyed my classes and not gotten lost.

Admittedly, I did my own fair share of cramming, unapologetically watched every episode of The Bachelor, enjoyed my weekends and had latenight texting sessions. Knowing when to work and when to relax is really important and having balance enhanced my school work, remembering that so much of Year 12 revolves around attitude and efficiency. I encourage you to be ambitious. To set impressive goals and not to shy away from your aspirations. To be empowered by these goals and let them help you strive to reach your potential. Work with your friends to create a fun and focused environment. Use their motivation to motivate yourself and likewise inspire them, generating a shared work ethic. Find a formula that works for you. It may be oddly specific, for example needing to wear shoes when studying which was a real turning point for me!

Loreto Toorak was my second home and a second family; a place where we are presented with opportunities to learn in a safe and supportive environment. The opportunity to advance academically and to express ourselves creatively. The opportunity to make lasting friendships and the opportunity to discover our dreams and to follow them. If I could offer advice to the younger students, I would say – enjoy your time here, build new friendships, strengthen old ones, and make some memories. Support and look out for one another – helping a fellow student not only increases their knowledge but also cements your own. Challenge yourselves and set goals that pushes you to work hard to achieve them, but remember to take a break and always place your health first. Above all, have faith in yourself and your abilities, but realise that help is always near should you ever need it. If you had told me six years ago that throughout my high school life I would have gotten my pilot’s licence, performed in the Musikverein in Vienna, travelled to France, Vietnam, Austria, Prague, and broken a bike in Salzburg, I never would have believed you.

Left (L-R): 2018 Duces of School, Sylvia Sherborne and Lily Li.

LEADERSHIP

Introducing our 2019 Captains of School

Isabella Gunn & Eloise Rosengren What is important to you about being Captain of School?

How can we live the value of Sincerity in the school context?

Eloise

The things I love about being Captain of School are the relationships I have formed with students within the school and within the wider Loreto Toorak community. The influence Isabella and I can have on the younger students, by teaching them the importance of sincerity, or simply spending time with them is something very special.

Sincerity is a very important value and should be applied to many aspects of school life. It emphasises the importance of being transparent, honest and aligning our actions with our words, which is essential when forming relationships every day within the school environment. Isabella

Isabella I love how involved this role allows me to be with the school community. Both Eloise and I always try to be approachable and this has allowed us to meet so many lovely girls. From visiting the students in Rathfarnham or handing out stickers on the gate, I love that there is always the opportunity to get to connect with every girl. 6

I believe Sincerity is best modelled at Loreto Toorak when girls interact genuinely. This can be as simple as a wave hello or a smile. If we try our best to be kind and authentic in our interactions with our peers then it encourages a positive environment that allows everybody to be themselves.

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

Above (L-R): 2019 Captains of School, Isabella Gunn and Eloise Rosengren with our Director of Mission & Leadership, Ms Michelle McCarty.

What is the most valuable lesson your Loreto education has taught you?

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Eloise

I am most proud of my involvement in all aspects of school life. I fully immerse myself in all opportunities regardless of my abilities. I hope to role model this to other students and further promote participation amongst younger students. I am very grateful to Loreto Toorak and how the School has given me numerous opportunities and allowed me to flourish.

The importance of being kind to everyone. Kindness may seem simple however should not be underestimated. We all have our own personal challenges and struggles, and kindness can go a long way. I have been able to learn a simple hello, a compliment or the act of inclusiveness can demonstrate care and strengthen us all as an entire community. Isabella My Loreto education has taught me to always be open to opportunities and willing to try new things. I believe it is important to search for what we are passionate about and this can only be achieved by having an enthusiastic attitude and an open mind. Whether this be a new sport or a different study technique, by providing so many opportunities, Loreto Toorak has always encouraged me to give everything a go.

Eloise

What are you passionate about? Isabella I have always been passionate about my education and love being able to learn. I really like that the education we receive at Loreto Toorak is challenging and extending, and encourages critical thinking. My love of learning has meant that every day I try to make the most of the extraordinary opportunities I am presented at this school. 7

LEADERSHIP

The Loreto Year of

Sincerity

“Let our actions be a reflection of our hearts’ true intention”. Grounded in Gospel values, Mary Ward’s desires for freedom, justice, sincerity, verity and felicity, shine through in all Loreto works, on every continent of the world. Sincerity in our communication and relationship with others is an essential characteristic of the personal integrity Mary Ward envisaged. Her ideal was that we should “be such as we appear and appear such as we are.” Self-acceptance sets us free from pretence and defensiveness, free to relate honestly and affectionately, and to love our neighbour as ourselves. We are both incredibly excited to be your Captains of School for 2019 and we look forward to working with the entire Loreto Toorak school community in this Loreto Year of Sincerity; a value we feel very privileged to be connected to. As a traditional part of our role as Captains, we were asked to devise a theme for the student body that embraced the meaning of sincerity and something to which all students can relate. Our theme for 2019 was created alongside our fellow Councillors, our Year 12 cohort and with help from other Loreto Captains of School from around Australia with whom we attended the LSAC Student Conference last year. It was here that we explored the true Loreto meaning of sincerity. For us, the theme is very important to achieve not only as individuals, but as an entire Loreto community, one full of integrity. Following these discussions, together we created a description of the qualities of a sincere person. One quality that we strongly focused on was having a sincere heart. It is a symbol that features prominently in the Loreto tradition, particularly on our crest where the heart appears in two places. We believe that sincerity comes from the heart; that if we are kind and honourable at our core, then this will be displayed in our actions and our words. This idea of the inner self being a reflection of the outer self is strongly linked with the experiences of Mary Ward. She was looking at her reflection in a mirror when she perceived God’s vision of glory. For this reason, we have decided to focus on this notion of reflection, noting that a sincere person’s reflection should be an expression of their inner and deeper values. It gives us great pleasure to announce our school theme for the 2019 Loreto Year of Sincerity; “Let our actions be a reflection of our hearts’ true intention”. 8

Above and Opposite : Sincerity artwork designed by Tereza Ljubicic (Year 12)

We believe that sincerity comes from the heart; that if we are kind and honourable at our core, then this will be displayed in our actions and our words. ISABELLA GUNN & ELOISE ROSENGREN 2019 CAPTAINS OF SCHOOL Reflection from Opening School Mass, February 2019.

LSAC Student Leadership

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

CONFERENCE

The LSAC Student Leadership Conference took place in late 2018, involving the incoming Captains of School from Loreto schools around Australia. This annual meeting facilitates our student leaders to explore a deeper understanding of the Loreto value for the forthcoming year, share ideas, learn from each other and form a network that will support them in their leadership roles. The conference took place at Loreto Toorak and Loreto Ballarat, facilitated by Lydia Baccanello from Loreto Marryatville and Michelle McCarty from Loreto Toorak. A highlight of the conference was a panel of speakers reflecting on the role of sincerity as our focus value for 2019, in leadership and life; these speakers, including our Principal Dr Susan Stevens, past Captain of School Amy Pereira, Sr Anne McPhee ibvm and Jwan Kada, provided great stimulation and wisdom in their discussion. They were led in this discussion by Anne Muirhead, Director of Mission at Loreto Ministries, who also worked creatively and energetically with the girls across the weekend, assisting the leaders in their creation of the Sincerity Prayer for 2019. Our own Captains of School, Isabella and Eloise, loved spending time with their fellow Loreto leaders, forming close connections and drawing encouragement for their leadership of our School in the Loreto Year of Sincerity.

Above: (Right of Mary Ward), Eloise Rosengren and Isabella Gunn with Captains of School from Loreto schools around Australia

Sincerity Prayer All loving God, giver of life, you create us in your own image and likeness, you accept our strengths and struggles, you delight in our diversity and uniqueness. We give thanks for the ability to discern your presence in all aspects of our lives: celebrating our authenticity, displaying curiosity about our personalities and place in our world, striving to be truer versions of ourselves each day. Free us from fear of judgement and empower us to live as our most sincere selves. Instil in us the courage to align our actions with our thoughts, words and values, individually and as a school community. Guide us to form relationships that are marked by trust, honesty and openness, and encourage us to respect the integrity of all creation. Called by Mary Ward, we aim to be such as we appear, and appear such as we are, accepting her challenge to act with sincere hearts in the face of hardship, acting out of love, not fear. In Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; name and with the help of the Holy Spirit, Amen

LEADERSHIP

Introducing

Loreto 2020

A VISION FOR CONTINUOUS RENEWAL

The year 2020 will be an exciting year in the history of the School. We will soon be commencing the next stage of the School’s continuous renewal program, which began in 2015 with the opening of the Mandeville Centre and continued with the 2018 opening of the Crescent Theatre. The development of a new St George’s Building is to replace the existing facility, which will provide our Years 7, 8 and 9 students with the exceptional standard of classrooms and communal spaces found in our Mandeville Centre. As an additional benefit, the new development will also improve our Clendon Road Reception and increase the external spaces available to all of our students. Our new St George’s Building will be spread across six levels; three below ground and three above ground, with two sunken courtyards designed to bring external light into the first basement level through walls of glass. Within this new facility, each year level will have a separate floor with dedicated formal and informal learning spaces and communal gathering areas. In addition to these facilities, the new building will also house an additional art space, supervised study spaces and a purpose-built Reception for Clendon Road. In order to facilitate the construction of our new facility, our existing St George’s Building will soon be demolished. With fewer available classrooms for current secondary classes, Loreto Toorak considered a number of potential educational 10

Within this new facility, each year level will have a separate floor with dedicated formal and informal learning spaces and communal gathering areas. models, which included the installation of portable classrooms on St Michael’s Green or next to Orrong Road, as well as exploring a range of alternative campuses. On review, the School’s preferred option involved reimagining the timetable to accommodate our students within the remaining classrooms. The school day start and finish times will vary in the new Loreto 2020 timetable, beginning at 8.05am and finishing at 3.50pm. As only four year levels will be in class at any given time, two year levels will start slightly later each day and two year levels will finish slightly earlier each day.

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

As our full Town Planning Permit has been approved, we are now in the process of starting the design development phase. During this phase, students and staff will again be consulted and the Education Plan for the building, which was created in 2018, will be refined. This consultation and refinement will inform the internal design of the building, including breakout zones, classroom design, furniture and the internal layout. We look forward to keeping our wider school community updated with the developments in our Loreto 2020 endeavour and further abreast of the developments in the new St George’s building project.

Opposite: Architectural vision for courtyard space in the new St George’s Building.

SÉAMUS SCORGIE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL - STAFF

Top: Architectural vision of new purpose-built Reception and entrance. Above: Indicative image of the internal courtyard.

Curriculum

Loreto Academy

LEADING THE WAY IN ACADEMIC INNOVATION

In January 2019, the inaugural cohort of 47 scholars assembled to immerse themselves in the Loreto Academy; an academic and experiential program that aims to extend scholar curiosity, provide challenge and foster excitement in learning. Areas of Study on Offer • • • • • • 12

Philosophy and Ethics: Historical Origins and Modern Dilemmas Italian Culture: The Art of Looking at Art (L’arte di guardare l’art) Australian Prime Ministers in Times of Social Change Numbers and Logic: Solving Real-World Problems Tremble, Tyrants and Traitors: A History of Protest Music Romantic Literature: On the Sublime and the Beautiful

• • • • • • •

Macroeconomics: Domestic and Global Interest Rates Mathematical Art and the Illusions of MC Escher The Victorian ‘Supernatural’ The New Science of Biomimicry From Caravaggio and the Baroque to Contemporary Art Theory and Practices An Introduction to Screenwriting Thinking and Reasoning with Data and Technology

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It was a joy to witness scholars deepen their excitement for learning and intellectual endeavour, become more curious about the world, debate ideas, develop their growth mindset, ask open questions and critique answers.

Open to all students in Years 10 and 11, the vision of the Loreto Academy is to encourage scholars to view themselves as curious, independent and capable intellectuals who will leave Loreto Toorak prepared to be the leading thinkers, innovators and achievers of their generation. Loreto Academy offers scholars an innovative way of learning: discomfort with the unfamiliar is embraced, learning is personally significant, learning and knowing go hand-in-hand and scholars are immersed in a low threat, high challenge experiences. Comprising 13 unique courses facilitated by 11 Loreto Toorak staff, the January program engaged scholars in areas not ordinarily covered in the School’s academic programs. Rigorous and stimulating courses were tailored to meet students’ interests. Scholars also appreciated and benefitted from the

partnerships that Loreto Academy formed with institutions such as the National Gallery of Victoria, Australian Centre for Contemporary Art and the Parliament of Victoria. Facilitators enabled scholars to build their capacity to self-manage their learning; inquiry guided their thirst for knowledge and engagement. Scholars were not formally assessed; Loreto Academy aims to encourage a deep love of learning unencumbered by the pressures that can come with formal assessment. Scholars also received micro-credentials that will be recorded on their Loreto Toorak academic transcripts.

One Year 11 Scholar noted, “I was really happy that Loreto Toorak offered me this opportunity. I got to know more about myself.” It was a joy to witness Loreto Toorak scholars deepen their excitement for learning and intellectual endeavour, become more curious about the world, debate ideas, develop their growth mindset, ask open questions and critique answers: skills and dispositions that are at the heart of life-long learners and the essence of a Loreto Toorak education. Opposite (L-R): Scholars at the NGV; Annabella Merakis, Elenoire Faiola, Laura Ellingworth, Giulia Massimini, Francesca Zappia, Isabella Caleo. Above Left: Scholars at Parliament House speaking with Jacinta Allan, Member of the Legislative Assembly and Minister for Transport Infrastructure. Above Right: The Loreto Academy Class of 2019.

KATE TEHAN HEAD OF LORETO ACADEMY 13

CURRICULUM

The Importance of Sleep A 2019 PASTORAL FOCUS

The importance of sleep and the significant effect it has on our lives is our pastoral focus for 2019. In launching our 2019 Speaker Series, Loreto Toorak commissioned Dr Tony Fernando, a Psychiatrist, Sleep Specialist and Senior Lecturer in Psychological Medicine, to address the school community. Throughout his visit, Dr Fernando spoke with students about the importance of sleep and the myriad of reasons that affect a good night’s sleep. Whilst his presentation was light-hearted, his underlying message of the significance of sleep in our ability to function well, was resoundingly clear. The results of a survey undertaken before Dr Fernando’s arrival reflected our students’ sleeping quality and patterns, and confirmed overall that our students simply need more sleep. Dr Fernando outlined some of the issues that affect sleep, such as stress, anxiety, health issues, insomnia and thinking styles. Dr Fernando normalised waking up through the night and urged students to not ruminate over this but rather to be more compassionate and forgiving of themselves in this situation. Bringing to the group’s attention the Buddhist term papañca, meaning the expansion and proliferation of thoughts, Dr Fernando discussed how students might learn to shape and control this tendency through the practice of mindfulness. The use of gadgets at night and how the blue light emitted by these gadgets stimulates alertness and affects our circadian rhythm was a topic of interest for all audiences.

Top Tips for Enhancing Sleep • • • • • • • •

Reduce the use of devices at bedtime Calm an over-thinking mind Avoid stimulants Find a consistent time for going to bed and getting up Minimise stimulating activities Engage in relaxation techniques to calm the mind (mindfulness, meditation, gratitude diary etc) Stay calm if you wake up during the night instead of commanding the brain to sleep Go to bed only when really sleepy or exhibiting sleep signals

The use of gadgets at night and how the blue light emitted by these gadgets stimulates alertness and affects our circadian rhythm was a topic of interest. In supporting our sharing of experts in this field as a resource for our school community, Professor Dorothy Bruck (Sleep Psychologist and current Chair of the Sleep Health Foundation) will be speaking to our Year 11s in Term 2, after previously addressing our Year 12 students as part of VCE Orientation Week in December. Professor Bruck discussed sleep cycles, the effects on the brain and the science of sleep. She outlined how much sleep the average person needs in order to function effectively and challenged our student’s use of technology at night. It is interesting to note that Professor Bruck advised that sleeping-in is not a healthy sleep habit but a short 10-30 minute nap in the afternoon can be highly beneficial! Above: Dr Tony Fernando, Psychiatrist, Sleep Specialist and Senior Lecturer.

KATE GUGGENHEIMER DIRECTOR OF STUDENTS 14

Language Immersion

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FRENCH EXCHANGE PROGRAM

In December 2018, three French students embarked on the adventure of participating in the French Exchange Program, including studying at the Saint Louis de Gonzague School in Paris. The opportunity for our students to spend six weeks discovering, exploring and immersing themselves in everything that Paris had to offer was an amazing experience, and one that was invaluable in informing their language studies, developing their confidence in conversation and engaging them in the French culture.

Daniella Camuglia (Year 10, 2018)

Angelique Folliard (Year 11, 2018)

Naomi Harpur (Year 11, 2018)

To say that my French Exchange was an amazing experience would be an understatement. Not only did I flourish in speaking the language, but I also learnt so much about myself. I made some amazing friends, both French and Australian, which made my experience unforgettable and aided in the enjoyment of my exchange.

Upon our arrival in Paris, I was welcomed by my wonderful host family, who treated me like a member of their family. Each week day, we attended classes, including Maths, English, French, History, Geography and Spanish, which assisted our smooth transition and helped us to adjust to the language. After lunch every day, we visited the incredible sites in Paris with our host parents. My favourite places were La Tour Eiffel, Versailles and the many museums.

Going on the French Exchange was one of the best decisions I have ever made. My French host, Marie, was the nicest person and we have become lifelong friends. Her family was so welcoming and they made me feel like I was part of their family.

My host, Judith, and her family were incredibly supportive and were constantly looking out for me. They took time to take me to the most wonderful places to further immerse me in their city. Even though I was blessed to share the experience with such an amazing family and was able to go to an remarkable school, I found that it was really up to me to approach my time with interest, curiosity and gratitude to make my exchange the best it could be.

I am thankful for the incredible opportunity to participate in the French Exchange and I feel motivated and excited for my studies in VCE French. I met many amazing people and made lifelong connections. My French speaking has improved significantly and I cannot wait to visit Paris again.

Every afternoon we went on an excursion to explore aspects of Paris. After this experience, I noticed that my French had improved, and although Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not confidently fluent in French, I can now understand more when listening to people speaking in French and I know more French words and phrases than I did before. From this trip I became more independent and more confident, and I also made new friends. Above: (Front, second from left) Daniella Camuglia, Angelique Folliard and Naomi Harpur.

CURRICULUM

NASA Junior Space Camp

One Giant Leap for Womankind

As school ended for 2018, I was buzzing with excitement in anticipation of our upcoming NASA trip. I could hardly believe that I was actually going to NASA and I was soon to set foot in the US Space and Rocket Centre (USSRC). Being my first long-haul trip overseas, I was feeling nervous beforehand, but once I got on the plane I felt incredibly excited. My first impression of America was at the Golden Corral Restaurant where I ate a traditional American buffet before our bus trip to the USSRC in Huntsville, Alabama. I was astounded by all of the rocket ships and space shuttles displayed all around the grounds. At -6Â° Celsius, Alabama was freezing, but our comfortable cabin accommodations made it feel like we were on the International Space Station, with our rooms shaped like fuselages. During our stay we participated in many exciting activities, such as a tour of a life-size model of the International Space Station, rocket building and launching, interesting presentations about astronomy and life in space, and simulated space missions. My favourite activity was definitely the simulated space missions because they gave me a chance to experience what it is like in the positions of mission control and astronaut. We also enjoyed many exciting rides in Huntsville, including simulated moon walking, a 1/6 gravity room, and many other fascinating experiences that simulated controlling and losing control of a spacecraft. In the museum area there were real life spacecrafts, including a life-size model of the Saturn V Rocket, the capsule that Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins stayed in once they returned to Earth after their moon landing, as well as many other spacecrafts and equipment. There were also virtual simulations, with my favourite being one that simulated spaceflight, involving many swerves and sudden bumps. Sadly, our stay in Huntsville came to an end too soon, and as we departed the USSRC, I felt so grateful for the amazing experiences I had there. 16

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Our stay in Houston involved many amazing, hands-on experiences, including a shark dissection, a tour of RICE University, an NBA game, a shopping trip, a visit to Wiess Energy Hall, the Health Museum, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Johnson Space Centre, and NASAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Headquarters, which was definitely my favourite place. During our stay we also heard an inspiring speech from Sean Covey about the seven habits of highly effective teens, which helped me to understand how I might go about achieving my goals. At the Johnson Space Centre, we were privileged to listen to an interesting presentation from an Astronaut and a Scientist about life in the International Space Station. We were also fortunate to be taken on a tram tour of the grounds of NASA, which included the old Mission Control, astronaut training facilities, as well as a detailed audio tour of the museum where we saw some amazing displays of spacecraft, equipment, and samples of space matter brought back by astronauts. We also had the opportunity to go inside a huge space shuttle that had been converted into a museum, with some historical pieces of spacecraft equipment, including an accurate model of the cockpit where the astronauts would control the spaceship.

I am extremely grateful to have participated in such a wonderful trip, and cannot fully express how much I enjoyed this once-ina-lifetime experience. I have gained so much from this trip, and I know that I will cherish the memories made during my stay for the rest of my life. Opposite: Students on tour of the Rocket Park at USSRC. Above: Combined Schools Group Photo at USSRC, (Loreto Toorak students named). Back (L-R): Tori Doggett, Tabitha Burge, Alexandra Keany, Paige Kalipciyan. Middle: Stella Sampieri, Audrey Grummet, Claudia McNee, Bonnie Laughlin, Eliza Galimberti, Mary (Faith) Cullinan, Alexandra Mirabile. Front: Cecelia Nicholls-McCormack, Alyna Huang. Below: Alexandra Keany on mission training at the USSRC.

CECELIA NICHOLLS-MCCORMACK

YEAR 9

One of the most enlightening experiences I had at NASA was when we went to a dinner with Nicole Stott, a female astronaut who spent 103 days in space, and painted the first watercolour in space. After listening to her speech, I was in awe of the strength and willpower that it would have taken for her to leave her family for such a long period of time, not knowing whether she would survive to come back home. She also taught me that anything can be achieved if you work hard for it, and this inspired me to follow my dreams in the hope that I may achieve great things. 17

CURRICULUM

Languages

Italian Language and Cultural Tour Italy is such a small country but simultaneously one of such incredible beauty and diversity. The Italian Language and Cultural Tour enabled us to fully immerse ourselves in Italy’s unique lifestyle and enjoy these diverse experiences. Amongst our group of 16 Year 10 students, highlights varied from appreciating the amazing architecture, to enjoying the fine regional cuisine, from experiencing language enrichment through conversations with the locals, to marvelling at the historical significance of each town. Verona was a town that provided many wonderful memories, including our evening at the Philharmonic Theatre and a visit to L’Arena. Our culinary evening at La Soffrita cooking school was a truly wonderful experience. We prepared a three course Italian meal starting with panzanella; an Italian bread salad with olives, capers and tomatoes, followed by delicious spinach and zucchini filled ravioli, and ending with a twist on a famous dessert; strawberry tiramisu. Learning to cook authentic Italian cuisine from incredible chefs left us with a strong desire to prepare these dishes at home. Exploring the intricate streets of quaint towns such as San Gimignano and Siena was so peaceful and calming, especially after our faster paced lifestyle experience in the city of Rome. Visiting Loreto, La Santa Casa, Assisi and Sant Eremo delle Carceri were magical and moving experiences. Whilst the kind and welcoming nature of the locals in each town always made it hard for us to leave, we were left feeling even more grateful for these opportunities and excited to revisit these places in the near future. Our evening walks through the city of Florence strengthened our appreciation of the beauty and genius of the Renaissance. Having time to examine and enjoy the city’s amazing artwork and architecture made us feel so fortunate to be staying in the heart of these surroundings. From dancing 18

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around the merry-go-round in the Piazza della Repubblica in Florence and singing songs with locals in the piazza, to waving at gondoliers as they passed us by in Venice, we were aware of constantly being surrounded by true beauty. This was especially evident in the city of Venice where the architecture and structure of this beautiful city is composed around a series of canals which give a special character and charm that is unique, not just to Italy, but to the world. Attending the Einaudi Liceo, a high school in Verona, was an experience that we will cherish forever. We were able to solidify our love and passion for the Italian language and culture, and create new friendships whilst being surrounded by an amazingly supportive group of peers and teachers.

Whilst the kind and welcoming nature of the locals in each town always made it hard for us to leave, we were left feeling even more grateful for these opportunities and excited to revisit these places in the near future. A high speed train trip from Verona to Milan and a guided tour of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion and historical centres by Alessandra Cirino, our former Language Assistant, enabled us to appreciate the modern face of Italy. The distinctive Italian way of life, the tiny shops, the historical sights and the amazing cuisine were central to the wonderful experiences which have nurtured an appreciation of the Italian language and culture in our hearts. We cannot wait to return to Italy in the near future. We would like to thank Mrs Caterina Chng, Ms Angela Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dwyer and Ms Karen Howarth for the amazing manner in which they took care of us and the incredible amount of work they put in to ensuring that we all made the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. We will never forget it and will cherish all of the memories forever. Grazie e arrivederci Italia! Opposite: Students visiting Duomo di Milano, the Milan Cathedral. Above: Sophia Murray, Matilda Appleby and Eliza Galimberti practise their skills at pasta making at the La Soffrita Cooking School. Left: Tour group at the Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence.

ELIZA GALIMBERTI

YEAR 10

With contributions from Year 10 students, Francesca Apolloni, Matilda Appleby, Olivia Budkiewicz, Anouchkar (Rai) Caderamanpulle, Grace Crowe, Martha Evans, Angelina Jenkins, Maxine Howe, Chloe Milionis, Lorena Mosbey, Sophia Murray, Bianca Palamara, Melina Palamara, Madeleine Piscopo and Emily Wright.

CURRICULUM

Our Hearts are Burning Within Us PILGRIMAGE TO ISRAEL

In January 2019, I travelled to Israel to participate in a study tour/pilgrimage titled Our Hearts are Burning Within Us, drawing from the words of the disciples recalling their travels on the road to Emmaus with the post-resurrection Jesus. Initially I was drawn to this experience by the tour leaders: liturgical music composer, David Haas; biblical scholar, Art Zannoni; Catholic priest, Fr Ray East; and local guide, Maria Sfeir. The other significant attraction for me was that the majority of participants were liturgical musicians and singers. David Haas, writer of the hymns Blest Are They and We Are Called, had put together a booklet of hymns and readings for each of the locations we visited, as well as the three Masses that we celebrated during our time in Israel. Each of the pilgrims was asked to prepare either a morning prayer or a reading, usually from the Gospel of Luke and specific to a location we visited. My reading was beside the river at Caeserea Philippi, one of the sources of the River Jordan.

There was a mixed sense of awe and extraordinary privilege to be walking in the footsteps of Jesus. While at times it was difficult to fully embrace the sense of the holy at some of the crowded sacred sites, certain places were incredibly evocative of the presence of God. The Sea of Galilee was such a place. Overall highlights included praying and singing at places significant to our Catholic faith; singing Blest Are They in the Church of the Beatitudes with the composer leading us in song. Other special moments included visiting Capernaum, the town where Jesus stayed, dipping my feet in the Sea of Galilee, praying for peace in the Middle East at the Western Wall in Jerusalem and watching the sun rise over the Sea of Galilee.

Reflecting upon the experience, I was struck by the contrasts in the landscape of the Holy Land, heightened by the time of year. In the North, where we did experience rain on a couple of days, we encountered lush green agricultural land. In the South, we entered the wilderness of Judea and saw the stony desert country that figures in the story of the Temptation of Christ that we read at the beginning of Lent. 20

I felt blessed to have had the company of many gifted musicians and to have this unique experience of the Holy Land. Our biblical scholar and guide used an interesting expression that I have carried with me since, describing the Holy Land as being like â&#x20AC;&#x153;the fifth Gospelâ&#x20AC;?. Truly the Gospel comes alive in a new way in the land where it came to birth in Jesus Christ. Above: Holy Sepulchure. Left: Jerusalem through the window of Dominus Flevit.

DAMIAN WHELAN DIRECTOR OF RELIGIOUS EDUCATION &LITURGY

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Art Residency

SKOPELOS FOUNDATION FOR THE ARTS

The Skopleos Foundation is a nonprofit organisation that promotes the visual arts through cultural exchange. In 2018, I was fortunate to be awarded a residency to work in its studios on the Greek island of Skopelos. The mission of the Foundation is for artists to experience, and be guided by, Hellenic history and culture, and aims to promote a dialogue between the Greek and international community. As a resident artist, I was encouraged to immerse myself in the culture and respond through my art practice. The studio was perched high above the port and village, with a panoramic view of the Aegean Sea. This setting provided great inspiration, as did the distinctive landscape and strong contrasts of colour and light. Following a week of exploration, the direction of my art work only became apparent in the final days of my residency when I discovered the ancient Greek word that is still deeply embedded in its culture: Philotimo; love of honour.

The direction of my art work only became apparent in the final days of my residency when I discovered the ancient Greek word that is still deeply embedded in its culture: Philotimo; love of honour. In most dictionaries, the word philotimo seems impossible to translate sufficiently. It describes a complex array of virtues that includes honour, dignity and pride; the ideal actions and behaviours, hospitality, bonds and responsibilities that

people demonstrate towards each other. However, upon further research, it seems that the word ultimately refers to the concept of a selfless altruism; a willingness to do something for someone without seeking reward. Philotimo became the source that underpinned my work, and suggested a mixed-media technique and style. Above: (Medium: Printmaking, etching, pencil drawing). The small and fragile ancient relics found embedded in the village walls were etched and printed onto paper. The word philotimo was arranged and drawn in an architectural style over the print.

SUE BURKE TEACHER OF ART & DESIGN 21

Rathfarnham In March, the School Leadership Team was fortunate to spend time together in Ballarat at a conference with our other Loreto colleagues from around Australia. The conference, Living with Sincerity, Leading with Integrity, provided an invaluable opportunity to listen to a range of guest speakers including academics, researchers, industry professionals and Loreto sisters. These presentations not only provided valuable insight into global matters impacting our students today, it also reminded us that our Loreto network is a strong, broad community spanning not only Australia, but the globe. We took all of this information and explored the many facets of what it means to be a Loreto school in the 21st century and how we prepare our students for the dynamic, fast-paced world that lies ahead for our graduates. Furthermore, reflecting on how do we do this whilst holding true to who we are as a Mary Ward school, being sincere and upholding our gospel-based values with integrity. A core learning that emerged for me during the conference was that Mary Ward educators cannot do this preparation and establishment of solid foundations alone, and once again it solidified for me the necessity of bringing all members of the village or school community on the journey so that we present a consistent and unified message and framework of support for our young people.

It takes a village to raise a child. - African Proverb Moreover, it is vital that we as educators and parents keep informed about the ever-changing world in which our young people exist, and over the years the School has endeavoured to meet this need in a variety of ways. This year we are delighted with the response we have already received from our Speaker Series, and we look forward to continuing to provide highly credentialed experts to speak with staff, students and parents on a range of topical and relevant subjects, ensuring that we are all well informed and aligned on these matters. As we work together in our village with sincerity and integrity true to Mary Wardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s charism, let us continue to use all this valuable, rich and practical information to be best placed to nurture and raise our students so they are well prepared to face the world of tomorrow.

CATHERINE MAIMONE CROWHURST DIRECTOR OF RATHFARNHAM & ELC 22

Young Engineers Program

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Loreto Toorak acknowledges that, with a rapidly evolving technological landscape, the future professions of its students will require new skills, coupled with innovative and adaptive growth mindsets. As a result, the Young Engineers Program was introduced with overwhelming support.

Almost 50 inquisitive and eager Rathfarnham students attend the Young Engineers Program, which encourages exploration and curiosity into the world of engineering, robotics, mechanics and electronics, whilst developing coding and design skills.

right sized pieces into the right places to put it together”, while Isabella (Preparatory) discovered that “I made a mistake but it doesn’t matter because you learn from mistakes… I think I’ve got it right now.”

The Young Engineers Program enables participants to engage their thought processes through an initial construction phase, using concrete objects to build motorised models ranging from dancing robots to cranes and washing machines. The students then use a coding application on a tablet to program the model to function, or become a ‘moving machine’ that performs tasks, just as it would in real life.

Loreto Toorak is also fortunate to have past pupil, Madeleine Allen (2018), as one of the facilitators of the program. The School provides numerous opportunities for recent graduates to share their skills with current students, including academic mentor programs and sports coaching. Madeleine’s work in the Young Engineers Program provides another opportunity to remain connected to the Loreto Toorak community whilst inspiring and mentoring future generations of Loreto women.

Along with the associated STEM skills, the program enhances competencies in problem-solving, teamwork, logical thinking and creative design, facilitating hands-on activities and experimentation with pulling things apart and putting them back together. Students have been enthusiastic in their response to the program; Millah (Year 4) exclaimed, “I loved building the carousel because it wasn’t too easy but it wasn’t too challenging. The coding part was fun”, while Camilla (Year 4) shared that “Young Engineers is a great because you are using Lego to build something with your friends, and learning so much at the same time.” Parker (Year 2), one of our younger Young Engineers, noted that “you learn that when you build something, the colour doesn’t matter, you have to get the

Loreto Toorak values the importance of providing opportunities for girls to learn STEM subjects, particularly because of the increasing demand for STEM skills in the workforce. Our hope is for all our students to have an opportunity to become future STEM leaders and innovators, and the Young Engineers Program is an engaging and exciting platform off which to launch. Above Left: Charlotte Debliquy (Preparatory). Above Right: Jemima Blackman (Year 1).

MICHAEL SVARC RATHFARNHAM HEAD OF CURRICULUM B 23

RATHFARNHAM

St Peter’s Early Learning Centre The children, families and educators have enjoyed a wonderful start to the year and a sense of calm and readiness for learning was evident throughout the ELC. We are supported by a wonderful parent community, many of whom shared their time with us for our Information Evenings, committee meetings and volunteering their time to assist with our programs. A true sense of partnership and community has engulfed St Peter’s Early Learning Centre in 2019, and we look forward to the many possibilities the year ahead holds. We welcomed Miss Emily Trenchard (2001) to St Peter’s ELC, joining us as the new 4 year old Pre Prep teacher. Emily brings with her a wealth of knowledge, passion for early childhood education and returns to Loreto Toorak as a past pupil. The year has begun with bucket filling, pets, clay, buddies, water play, liturgies and fun. Each day the children bring with them a sense of excitement as they question, wonder 24

The wider the range of possibilities we offer the children, the more intense will be their motivations and the richer their experience. – Loris Malaguzzi

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and explore their learning spaces through play, beginning to learn about themselves and their social connections to others. Children are not born equipped with the social and emotional skills needed to regulate how they interact with others. They are born completely dependent on the adults around them to provide support, model appropriate behaviours and gently guide them when needed. In order to adjust our level of support and expectations for children’s behaviour appropriately, we need to have a deeper understanding of their developmental capabilities. Ongoing support will enable children to develop social competence, which is the ability to interact with others in an appropriate way. Social development refers to a child’s ability to interact, relate to and empathise with others. Typical milestones for 3-5 year olds include: enjoys playing with other children; may have a particular friend; shares, smiles and begins to cooperate with peers (cooperative play); jointly manipulates objects with one or two other peers and develops independence and social awareness. All behaviours are an attempt to communicate something. In order to adequately support children and guide their behaviour in a safe and supportive way, we must be aware of factors that affect behaviour. Working in partnership, as educators and parents, the children are able to hear a common language and experience clear expectations. This sense of partnership between the ELC educators, children and families is a key factor in our time with the children in their early learning experience. Whilst we continue to be based at Loreto Toorak, we are mindful of ensuring we stay connected to St Peter’s Parish. Prior to our Welcome Mass, to begin the year with Father Brendan Hayes, the children visited the Parish to practise their singing and to become familiar with the space. The children

entered the church with reverence and mindfully engaged with the space inside the church. Crossing the threshold into this place of prayer was done with respect and consideration. During their time in the church, they noted the stained glass windows, altar and statues which lead into further learning back at the ELC, following the children’s new discoveries. Our Welcome Mass was followed by a family picnic and sausage sizzle within Winifred Square at Loreto Toorak. The beautiful sunny morning was the perfect gift, following the children’s rendition of This Little Light of Mine. We are all looking forward to sharing a wonderful year of possibilities together. Opposite: Pre Prep Class of 2019. Above: Excursion to St Peter’s Parish. Below Left: The children creatively respond to their experience of the stained glass windows at St Peter’s Parish. Below Right: The children explore and investigate the environment of Loreto Toorak and one of their favourite trees.

KATHLEEN BROHIER HEAD OF ST PETER’S ELC

Social Justice

IWD #BalanceForBetter International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. International Women’s Day (IWD) has occurred for over a century, with the firstgathering in 1911 supported by over one million people in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. Over 400 years ago, Mary Ward wrote: “Fervour is not placed in feelings, but in a will to do well which women may have as well as men. There is no such difference between men and women that women may not do great things/matters, as we have seen by examples of many saints who have done great things. And I hope in God it will be seen that women in time to come will do much.” Even though these words, particularly the final sentence, are familiar to those of us already connected to the Mary Ward Circle of Friends, we might not know their context. In 1617 Mary became aware that her community and early work in St Omer was attracting the negative attention of the Cardinals in Rome who had ultimately dismissed her at this time by suggesting that their “fervour will decay because they ‘are but women.’” Incensed by this, Mary responded in a number of talks to her community in St Omer which have become known as the Verity Speeches concluding with the now familiar exhortation above that “women in time to come will do much.” On International Women’s Day 2019, it is beyond dispute that women have in the last 400 years of time indeed done much. Mary Ward could only have dreamed about the achievements that the girls and women who came after her would reach and the contributions they would make to the world and the Church as teachers, doctors, writers, inventors, politicians, explorers, artists, scientists, mothers, builders, leaders and so much more. A common factor in the achievements of such women, is their education. That gift which Mary Ward fought so hard to ensure would be open to girls so that in her time and our time girls could fulfil their human dignity and innate potential to flourish into the beings they were created to be, human beings fully alive reflecting, as St Irenaeus said, the glory of God. When girls and women today, both in Australia and around the world, are oppressed, excluded, under-paid, sexualised, marginalised, ignored, forced into marriage, trafficked, underrepresented in Parliament, subjected to physical violence at home, travel fearfully on suburban streets, and are dismissed from authority and a real voice in the Church, then we know that Mary Ward’s rebuke, that “women in time will come to do much,” is still a reminder that we must both hold on to and work side by side for, to create the circumstances where that will indeed become the reality. Like Mary Ward, the girls and women in our Loreto schools and communities must speak out and stand up – for themselves and in solidarity alongside those whose voices are seldom heard. On International Women’s Day let’s celebrate but reiterate, there is more to be done. Our fervour still burns. MICHELLE McCARTY DIRECTOR OF MISSION & LEADERSHIP

Sr Orla Treacy ibvm

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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN OF COURAGE AWARD

On Thursday 7 March 2019, the US Secretary of State hosted the annual International Women of Courage (IWOC) Awards to honour 10 extraordinary women. This year, Sr Orla Treacy ibvm and selected for this prestigious honour. Now in its 13th year, the IWOC Award recognises women around the globe who have demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, gender equality, and women’s empowerment, often at great personal risk and sacrifice During the ceremony, Naw K’nyaw Paw of Burma, spoke on behalf of all the women being awarded, telling her story of courage, and ending with a poem which reflected on the fact that women of courage prepare the way for others to be brave and to fight for a better world. When asked about the award, Sr Orla said, “This award belongs to the young women of South Sudan with whom I have the privilege of working. Our students embody all that is courageous – they are young women of vision, strength and hope. Young women who dream of a better country for themselves and their families, who are prepared to challenge old structures and work towards making South Sudan great. I am grateful to all who have made this possible.” “Our work in South Sudan is not possible without the ongoing support of our partners, our wider Loreto family, past pupils, students, staff and our local community in Rumbek. Our Church leaders, community leaders and local government leaders have all played a significant role in supporting our mission.” In 2006, Sr Orla joined other Loreto Sisters who were starting a new mission in Rumbek, South Sudan. Touched by the plight of girls who were being forced into early marriage and denied the right to an education, she took action. Sr Orla and the Loreto Sisters started a girls-only boarding school with 35 students. Today, Sr Orla serves as the head administrator of the Loreto Rumbek Mission in Maker Kuei. The Loreto Rumbek Mission consists of three core programs: a community based coeducational school with nearly 1,200 children, an all-girls secondary boarding school with around 300 girls, and a women and child-centric Primary Health Care Unit (PHCU) which provides around 1,600 clinical consultations each month. The mission is currently supported by two additional Sisters – Sr Penina from Kenya and Sr Baida from India.

Today, I was very aware of our girls as I was receiving the award. I pray that I am paving the way for them. After receiving the award, Sr Orla expressed her hope for the girls at Loreto: “Today, I was very aware of our girls as I was receiving the award. I pray that I am paving the way for them. My hope and dream is to see one of them with this award in the future.” Sr Anne Mary, who previously served in the Loreto Rumbek mission spoke of the impact of the ceremony; “I was really moved to see so many women from all over the world, from so many cultures being honoured. What really struck me was the fact that these women were representing the many other women who work hard serving the vulnerable. I was also thinking of our girls in South Sudan who are setting out to do something great, preparing to work hard for their country,” she explained. Above: Sr Orla Treacy ibvm is congratulated by First Lady Melania Trump alongside US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

For more information or to donate, please visit www.loretorumbek.ie/ Loreto Toorak has supported Loreto Rumbek through MWIA and on Feast Days in 2017-2018. Excerpt from: www.loretorumbek.ie/sr-orla-receives-2019-international-women-of-courage-award/

SOCIAL JUSTICE

Our Mission of Loving and Responsible Service

Pilgrimage to Vietnam YEAR 11

On Saturday 8 December 2018, 59 students from Year 11, accompanied by eight staff, arrived at Melbourne Airport to begin our long awaited and much anticipated Vietnam Pilgrimage. As soon as we arrived in Ho Chi Minh City we dived into different activities and experiences that presented opportunities to learn many new things. Vietnam was a place many pilgrims had never seen before, so experiencing such a change of scenery and culture had an impact on us straight away.

Our time at Can Thanh shed a light on the ability of these students to learn, despite what society might have presumed about them. 28

The events that took place during the pilgrimage taught us about the culture of Vietnam, the food and the people, how the Vietnam War shaped their country, and the positive effect that we had on the children through our support of Loreto Vietnam as we visited the numerous schools and programs around Ho Chi Minh City. Many of the children that we met were ecstatic when we played games, danced or shared stickers. The value of interaction, friendship and fun had a big impact on their daily routine. We saw the capabilities of the students at the special schools, and we were sure that the fun, active and exciting memories we made were some that will stick with the pilgrims for a long time. One of the biggest impact experiences was at the Thien Phuoc Centre for children with disabilities, where we learnt that simply making a connection with the children was enough to make them smile and feel happy. These were some of the biggest impacts we had on the people we met, and it was extremely rewarding and definitely eye opening. They helped us, and all the other pilgrims, realise that we are truly blessed to be in the positions we are, but also feel motivated to come back and continue to use what we found had a significant impact on us in our daily lives and futures here at home.

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Below: Year 11 Pilgrims and staff at the Binh Minh Special School, supported by Loreto Toorak. Bottom (L-R): Year 11 Pilgrims at the Can Thanh Special School - Sophie Cullen, Isabella Roda, Brianna Dooley.

Each pilgrim experienced a very personal journey, but together we also shared a powerful connection, the memories of which we will always share. This is partly why this pilgrimage is so authentic and appealing to each person who takes part. Another highlight was the Can Thanh Special School which is a school for students with intellectual disabilities of all ages, supported for many years by Loreto Vietnam and Loreto Toorak. We were split into separate classrooms with students of differing capabilities, our specific classroom had slowly developed students who were aged 14-23 years, significantly older that other children we had previously worked with throughout the pilgrimage. This meant that we were challenged to adjust the way we approached working with these students, and despite the language barrier, communicating with these students was surprisingly seamless. Our time at Can Thanh shed a light on the ability of these students to learn, despite what society might have presumed about them. Their appreciation of us coming to visit was so enjoyable. Our time on the Vietnam Pilgrimage challenged us to reflect upon the significant experiences we shared and how these might motivate and inspire us in our lives ahead. It was an incredible privilege to share in this pilgrimage of loving and responsible service, and acknowledge how our Loreto education liberates and empowers us to be women for others. ISABELLA RODA & MEG BAKER YEAR 11 PILGRIMS, 2018

For more information or to donate, please visit www.loretovietnam.org The Vietnam Pilgrimage centres on time spent in schools and projects primarily supported by Loreto Vietnam. Loreto Vietnam, established by Sr Trish Franklin ibvm in 1997, is now administered by new EO, Mr Dung Nguyen. We look forward to working with Dung and his team.

SOCIAL JUSTICE

Inspirational Unity

Loreto Family International & MWIA Become One Think Loreto, think Federation, think Ballarat, think 1987…these four elements aligned and sparked the start of a revolutionary change maker, Loreto Family International (LFI). What a unique and special idea, one that pre-dates today’s organisations like Mary Ward International and MWIA and really, is the bones of what these organisations have evolved into - the fundraising arm that supports the IBVM Sisters’ projects internationally. Colette Burnes and this small committee of ex-Loreto students were certainly well before their time.

We have recently experienced the extraordinary Loreto Spirit first-hand at the 2018 Loreto Federation, Be the Change – Celebrating the 30th Gathering of the Australia-wide Loreto Community. All who have attended a Loreto Federation will understand the energy it generates and its inspirational spark. The desired outcome of all Federations is that this spark is harnessed in very practical terms, becoming the foundation, to provide something more than ordinary where the need is greatest. Colette Burnes, Loreto Toorak Past Pupils’ Association President (1985-1986), was present at the 1987 Ballarat Federation and this is exactly what she did. Colette saw that the Sisters, who were working with “the poorest of the poor” in India, needed support and believed past pupils across Australia, could give this support. Simple, though revolutionary, was the idea of connecting like-minded past pupils directly to the Sisters in India. Loreto Family International was formed, an LFI Committee was established, and past pupils from all over Australia were invited to donate to provide funds to support the international development work of the Loreto Sisters, specifically in India, where in 1987 the IBVM Sisters believed, “the need was greatest.” Many generous and loyal donors signed up, and over 80% of these donors, together with some who have joined their ranks in more recent years, have continued to give over the 30 years that have followed. Most of the current committee members have served for all or almost all of those years and they have been extraordinarily grateful to the dedicated donors for their ongoing commitment to LFI. 30

In the beginning, the funds were channelled directly into education for girls and later, into programs providing support for women and families. LFI members began by sponsoring a child at Loreto Sealdah and Elliott Road for $175 per annum. As further needs were identified, support for many programs followed: •

Darjeeling Collective Voices – set up to empower tea plantation communities in Darjeeling to know, promote, and enact their rights in education, protection, health, and nutrition. As a result of families’ participation in this program, enrolment in schools has increased to 100% and trafficking has dramatically reduced because parents are sending their children to school rather than the plantation fields to work.

•

Kolkata Capacity Building – offering micro-credit programs, drop-in centres for victims of child labour, programs for identifying children who, unaided, would not be able to attend school.

•

Kolkata Female Correctional Home – equipping female inmates with a vocational skill to assist them, when released, to live a life of dignity.

•

Kolkata (Satarda and Shillong Regions) – establishing income generation projects e.g. masala grinding, canteen, micro-savings schemes, vocational training and health programs.

•

Ethical Enterprises Initiative – providing training to young girls in skills relating to jute and paper products so that they would be employable and able to earn a wage.

•

200 teachers have been trained in primary education and education manuals in Bengali, Hindi, and Urdu have been developed.

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Be compassionate and merciful towards the poor and generous also if you have the means. – Mary Ward The dedicated LFI Committee and their generous sponsors have sent more than $1.5 million directly to India and the only costs to the organisation have been postage stamps for correspondence. What an outstanding record of philanthropy. All good things must come to end, or must they? This wonderful initiative has come full circle from its inception at the same event over 30 years ago. After much consultation, the LFI Committee and their donors decided it was time to formally join with MWIA. At the 2018 Federation, LFI’s current President, Kate Russell, handed archival material and details over to MWIA’s Executive Officer, Kim Nass, on behalf of the committee and donors, as a symbolic gesture to indicate that future support would be given through direct donations to MWIA. The Loreto IBVM Constitution states: “In a world of inequality and injustice we stand with the oppressed, the disadvantaged and those exploited in any way by unjust systems.” MWIA supports these goals in very practical ways, by assessing

project applications, seeking funding for projects, organising the international transfer of funds and reviewing every project. MWIA also creates ways for people to collaborate with this mission for justice and development by providing opportunities for volunteers. Loreto Family International is now a part of the MWIA family and, through donations made to MWIA, its members will continue to support the development work of the IBVM Sisters. The Annual Mass will celebrate the wonderful collaboration between LFI and MWIA this November at Loreto Toorak and a Loreto International Family Grant will be awarded annually to a project in India focusing on women’s education. The legacy of Loreto Family International will live on in the lives of those empowered by opportunities created as a result of love, generosity and compassion. Opposite: Brick Field Project, Kolkata, India. Top: Ethical Enterprises Initiative, Darjeeling, India. Above Right: LFI President, Kate Russell, and MWIA Executive Officer, Kim Nass.

HEATHER KITSON MWIA COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

To find out more about MWIA, to donate securely online or to subscribe to MWIA’s Sustain, please visit www.mwia.org.au

www.mwia.org.au BVA

DECEMBER 2018

The

MWIA is the Australian and international development organisation of the Loreto Sisters. They strive to make a difference in the areas of education, community development, human rights, social justice, and the empowerment or women and children.

Information republished with permission from Mary Ward International Australia (MWIA).

MISSION

in the year of JUSTICE

FEDERATION Be the Change

MWIA

Loreto Family International Become One!

Music News

Music News Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra In conjunction with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Education Program, on Friday 1 March 2019 our Stage Band participated in a masterclass with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, led by world renowned American trumpeter, Mr Wynton Marsalis. Our students were privileged for the opportunity this experience presented to develop their skills and to learn from such a talented musician. As our Stage Band prepared for the Generations in Jazz festival at Mt Gambier in May, this masterclass was an invaluable preparation for the event.

Celebration of the Piano The annual Celebration of the Piano was held on Monday 1 April 2019 in the Crescent Theatre. The theme for the evening was A Night at the Movies with students performing piano adaptations and features showcasing the silver screen. The evening was a wonderful celebration of these beautiful works played on a diverse and expressive instrument, and the students certainly bought out this character. Students from Years 2-12 performed duets, solos and group works in what proved to be an amazing night of 32

musical sharing with an emphasis on storytelling. We thank Ms Debbie Haskell and the Keyboard department for their work in preparing these talented students for performance and for putting on a wonderful event.

It was, to say the least, a night I will remember forever as the time I, and many other girls, stepped out of our comfort zones to give others the joy of music. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Gretel Gibson-Bourke

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Paris Cat Jazz Club On Monday 18 March 2019, 21 of our talented singer/ songwriters and jazz studies students performed at one of Australia’s premier jazz and contemporary music clubs, the Paris Cat. The girls showcased their exceptional talents and it was a privilege to see students performing on such a respected stage in the jazz world. An excerpt from Gretel Gibson-Bourke (Year 12), Senior Chorister, who performed on the night, is included below. “Singing at the Paris Cat was unlike anything I have ever done before. Being a mostly classical singer, to be singing at a jazz club was admittedly not where I thought I would be, but I am so glad I took part because it was such a unique and exciting way to celebrate my love for singing. What was particularly special about the Paris Cat was the vibe in the room. You could feel the nervous tension as girls waited to perform, and then when they returned from the stage shaking with excitement and exhilaration after their performance, we were all happy for their success. I remember standing on stage, and although I could feel every single pair of eyes on me, those eyes were smiling, prepared to be entertained by a fun, jazzy and quirky performance. It was, to say the least, a night I will remember forever as the time I, and many other girls, stepped out of our comfort zones to give others the joy of music.”

Flute Masterclass On Monday 25 March 2019, Loreto Toorak hosted a Flute Masterclass in the Oak Parlour, led by guest artist Ms Aawa White, a Melbourne based flautist who has recently returned from performing and studying in New York. Many of our flute students had the opportunity to perform for Ms White in this setting, who gave some constructive feedback before the flute cohort were coached through a number of exercises to improve their playing and broaden their performance landscapes to alternate techniques. We thank Ms Aawa White, Ms Jennifer Eury, our Head of Woodwind, and all the flute staff for their work in providing this opportunity for our students. Opposite: Caitlin Chiam (Year 12) performs at the Paris Cat Jazz Club. Above: Stage Band at Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra excursion. Left: Music Captain, Helena McArdle, performs Clair de Lune from Twilight at the Celebration of the Piano. Below: Ms Aawa White and flute students at the Flute Masterclass.

Performing Arts News

Celebrating 40 years of the

Performing Arts Festival In 1979, the first Performing Arts Festival (PAF) was held at De La Salle College Hall with a goal to promote inclusivity in the creative arts among the greater school community. This first PAF was so well received that it became an annual event, over time embedding itself as a Loreto Toorak tradition.

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When first imagined, the festival was designed to provide opportunities in leadership, teamwork and camaraderie as Houses competed against each other in the categories of choral, solo, instrumental and dance. Over the years, as the festival was further refined, there was competition in all areas, including drama and design, as well as the awarding of an overall PAF Cup. By 1986, the PAF’s humble beginnings at De La Salle College Hall seemed a distant memory, and the PAF was relocated to the Melbourne Concert Hall, now known as Hamer Hall. One very special and unique PAF is recorded in our archives thus: “In 1988, at the behest of History Coordinator Russell Staiff, the then Headmistress Sr Deirdre Rofe ibvm organised a school-wide pilgrimage to Central Australia and Uluru. The whole Senior School departed the Loreto Toorak gates on a convoy of buses, with the Army being consulted for support with logistics and safety. During this trip, the PAF was replaced with a non-competitive rock concert performance in Alice Springs. The four Houses practised en route, then produced and performed what the School Captain Patricia Riddell described as “much ad libbing and unplanned humour.” At the end of the concert, the whole school came together to sing We

Are Family, drawing on the nominated themes of this unique experience; togetherness and reconciliation.” 40 years later, in 2019, the captains, leaders, singers, dancers, instrumentalists and designers were just as excited to present the wonderful night of entertainment, and the theme of togetherness still remained strong. Below: Mulhall House perform their Choral piece, Holding Out For a Hero, from their performance entitled Cirque Di Mulhall.

2019 PAF Overall Winner: Mornane Choral Barry

Design Mulhall

Instrumental Mulhall

Drama Mornane

Production Mulhall & Ward

Choreography Ward

PERFORMING ARTS NEWS

Collaborate to Create

MENTORING IN THE PERFORMING ARTS

We share great pride in all that we have achieved in the Performing Arts at Loreto Toorak. As we continue to develop our program, we strive to become a creative arts hub. The Crescent Theatre is a space where artists, students and teachers collaborate to create memorable performances, both for the audience and those involved on and behind the stage. In taking on directorial and artistic roles in the theatrical space, our students have been fortunate to collaborate with both our wonderful Theatre Designer, Ms Adrienne Chisholm, as well as some of the best professionals in the industry. We were thrilled to have playwright Ben Ellis devise a script based on the ideas of Millicent Walker and Isabella Caleo (Year 11), as they embarked upon their journey as directors. Additionally, Drama Captain, Katherine Ellul, alongside Remy Spanos (Year 12) are collaborating with visual artist David Jolly to create a series of watercolours for scenic backdrops for Alice in Wonderland. Katherine has also had the opportunity to work alongside esteemed composer and sound designer David Franzke to create the aural landscape for the Year 12 Play, The Crucible, and in her capacity as director of Alice in Wonderland. David is an old friend of Loreto Toorak now, and often comments that he enjoys his time at the School just as much as he does the MTC. Additionally, Artistic Director of Ranters Theatre Company, Adriano Cortese, has been working with our Year 6 students in devising their own short plays for their Performance Evening. Whilst we are very fortunate to be working with these professionals, I believe that they are just as lucky to be working with us; or more specifically, our students. Each time a creative comes into our theatre, they comment on how imaginative,

enthusiastic and willing the girls are. It is a joy to see our students bringing the words on the page to life, and, although it can be hard work, they rise to the occasion each time. I am thrilled to be able to extend leadership opportunities to our students in the arts and I congratulate each and every student for everything they have contributed to our program. Below (L-R): Year 11 students Isabella Caleo and Millicent Walker collaborate with Adriano Cortese, Katie Rose Smith and David Franzke. Opposite: Remy Spanos (Year 12) works alongside David Jolly to create a series of watercolours for scenic backdrops for Alice in Wonderland.

KATIE ROSE SMITH HEAD OF PRODUCTIONS & PERFORMING ARTS

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As a director, what will be your main focus in the rehearsals? Millicent: For me, I enjoy focusing on the characterisation and bringing the characters to life. This can be done through activities such as creating scenarios and reacting as your character. I think it is extremely important to stress the nuance aspects of acting in order to achieve a cohesive performance where the audience feels a genuine connection with the characters. Another thing I will focus on as a director is ensuring the actors are learning how to refine their skills in a fun and inclusive environment. I believe this can be achieved through collaboration and activities that get the actors moving and thinking creatively.

What does it mean for you to have your ideas realised on stage in a performance?

As a student director, how do you plan on collaborating with the artists to achieve your overall vision?

Millicent: To me, it means a long process of working creatively with teachers and professionals to create a captivating performance involving fellow students. I believe this is a unique experience that holds many valuable lessons to learn along the way, and something that will benefit me greatly. I believe that it will be extremely rewarding to witness my ideas converted into a performance. To have my ideas actually translated onto the stage is something I have always been eager to do, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to bring my ideas to life.

Katherine: I plan to work closely with the artists to realise the world of Wonderland, which will help broaden my vision and inspire creativity. Using collaborative, out-of-the-box thinking and having artists who are willing to contribute to this is exciting, as it prompts me to think of creative staging ideas and ways for the actors to interact with a more abstract world.

What is the appeal of noir genre? Isabella: Theatre and film of the mystery genre has always been some of my very favourite, and so when it was decided that noir is what we would be taking on this year, I was incredibly enthusiastic. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Hitchcockian suspense of Rear Window (a personal favourite of mine) or the grimy neo-noir aesthetic of Blade Runner, noir offers intricate plots that test the audience, characters that are inevitably never what they seem, psychological webs of deceit, hidden motives, quick witted, cool dialogue and an underlying sense of unease that makes it a captivating experience for an audience. The genre has so much to unpack and so this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production is extremely exciting as we can experiment with heightened production elements including lighting, projection and sound to evoke the unmistakable noir mood.

How does sound change the way an audience perceives theatre? Katherine: Sound can serve to intensify emotion or subvert the feeling completely. Whilst we use sound to demonstrate context, heightening the emotion of a scene and adding interest, it is fascinating to experiment with how sound can change audience perception. Working with David Franzke in The Crucible, he layered magical chimes into a track to underscore a scene. I had previously imagined this scene as foreboding, expecting a soundtrack of

Each time a creative comes into our theatre, they comment on how imaginative, enthusiastic and willing the girls are. What have you needed to consider in developing a storyline? Isabella: The main points we have sought to include when developing the story for the play were evoking the noir genre through a suspenseful plot and building tension, culminating in an ending with a twist. This balance proved difficult at times when we wanted to include the classic tropes of the genre, yet still keep the plot unexpected and new. Practically, school plays, more often than not, have fairly sizeable casts, and so we needed to consider how best to introduce a wide range of interesting and diverse characters in a way that felt natural and serviced the story and not forced by necessity.

low, droning strings, but Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s idea changed my perception into interpreting the scene as one of possibility. Working with a sound designer, what have you learnt about the crossover between the technical and the creative world of sound? Katherine: Working with a sound designer has helped me to understand the technical aspects of sound. Although recording samples and creating tracks requires one to learn about sound technology like Q Lab, sound is creative process with endless scope to explore. I like to gather samples from my own life and alter them to create unique samples. Moreover, as a double bass player, I enjoy being able to use my instrument to inspire a more percussive way of playing. 37

Sport News

2019 Victorian All Schools

SUCCESS AT THE SWIMMING RELAYS

We congratulate our Relay Swimming teams who worked hard, overcame challenges and triumphed in the pool at the Victorian All Schools Swimming Relays on Thursday 7 March 2019. The School is immensely proud of this significant achievement, particularly as our girls competed against a number of premier schools from across Victoria. Overall, Loreto Toorak filled every event with both an A and B relay, and with a total of 38 girls competing in the pool, we presented the largest girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; team. The girls thrived off the positive, energetic vibe at the pool with both parents and girls cheering for teammates as our teams won five gold, five silver and three bronze medals.

Gold: Medley Relay 13&U: Annabelle Bamford, Hannah Saadie, Hannah Pettenon, Catherine Boyle; Breaststroke Relay 13&U: Hannah Saadie, Remy Duane, Jessica Haintz, Jemma Potts; Breaststroke Relay Open: Emily Waring, Elizabeth Jenkins, Olivia Duke, Olivia Lefoe; Backstroke Relay 13&U: Olivia Hope, Annabelle Bamford, Jemma Potts, Hannah Pettenon; Backstroke Relay Open â&#x20AC;&#x201C; RECORD 2.04.10: Emily Waring, Olivia Lefoe, Grace Hyslop, Alexandra Rapkins. Silver: Medley Relay 15&U: Delilah Goodwin, Edie Noble, Jenny Cui, Isobel Thomson; Medley Relay Open: Olivia Lefoe, Emily Waring, Dominique Hart, Alexandra Rapkins; Butterfly Relay 13&U: Clare Tuckwell, Hannah Pettenon, Olivia Hope, Annabelle Bamford; Freestyle Relay 15&U: Isobel Thomson, Delilah Goodwin, Rose Jenkins, Jenny Cui; Freestyle Relay Open: Emily Waring, Alexandra Rapkins, Dominique Hart, Olivia Lefoe. Bronze: Backstroke Relay 15&U: Delilah Goodwin, Jenny Cui, Eliza Dougherty, Edie Noble; Butterfly Relay 15&U: Delilah Goodwin, Jenny Cui, Edie Noble, Isobel Thomson; Butterfly Relay Open: Olivia Lefoe, Emily Waring, Dominique Hart, Alexandra Rapkins. Below: Hoisting the trophy, Swimming Captains Emily Waring and Grace Hyslop, along with the 2019 Victorian All Schools Swimming Relay teams and coaches.

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Head of Schoolgirls Regatta

LORETO TOORAK TAKES OUT THE MEDAL TALLY

On the 16-17 March 2019, over 170 Loreto Toorak athletes competed in the 2019 Head of Schoolgirls Regatta. With over 2000 schoolgirl athletes competing from across Victoria, it was a fantastic spectacle on the Barwon River in Geelong. Loreto Toorak celebrated a highly successful weekend with a total of 20 out of 30 crews successfully proceeding to A Finals; of those crews we applaud our nine gold medallist, seven silver medallist and three bronze medallist crews. Proudly, Loreto Toorak topped the final medal tally with 18 medals. Congratulations to our Head of Schoolgirls championship crews: Open Fourth Eight, Year 10 Division 5 Quad, Year 10 Division 5 Four, Year 9 Division 1 Four, Year 9 Division 4 Four, Year 9 Division 5 Four, Year 9 Division 6 Quad, Year 9 Division 7 Quad and Year 9 Division 7 Four. We acknowledge our Year 12 Morongo Medallists who were decorated at the Celebration of Rowing ceremony after having

competed in their fourth and final Head of Schoolgirls Regatta; Annie Trainor (Captain of Boats), Camilla Baxter (Captain of Boats), Gabriella Barker, Lucy Hall, Jessica Canning, Alexandra Amanatidis, Eloise Rosengren, Kate Buffham, Alexandra Boyle, Tallulah Frigo, Sophie Cullen, Alessandra Nugent, Lola McCaughey and Ella-Rose Simpson. We thank the staff for their support over the weekend and the Loreto Toorak families that came down to support our crews. The marquee was the best on the river thanks to the wonderful support of the committee led by President, Stephen Rosengren and Vice President, Sarah Curtis.

National Championships, Penrith We applaud our First VIII and U17 VIII who worked diligently in preparation for the National Rowing Championships in Penrith, NSW. Both teams progressed to the A Final with our U17 VIII finishing fourth and our First VIII finishing sixth. TEAGAN BOUGHTON HEAD OF ROWING 39

Achievements Mia Ooi

Olivia Lefoe

Jazmine Lam

We congratulate Mia Ooi (Year 10, pictured below with her family) who was awarded the Australian Scout Medallion from the 5th/6th Moorabbin Central Venturer Unit; considered the pinnacle award of Scouting. To attain this top award reflects initiative in tackling this challenge, sustained effort, self discipline, teamwork and leadership. We applaud Mia on her achievements.

We congratulate Olivia Lefoe (Year 10) who competed in the Victorian Long Course Championships, achieving nine gold, two silver and two bronze medals. Olivia also succeeded in attaining a state record, achieving the honour of being named State Age Champion, alongside a potential qualification for the World Junior Swimming Championships in Budapest in August.

Congratulations to Jazmine Lam (Year 8, pictured right) who competed in the Victorian U13 Badminton State Tournament at MSAC, winning the girls doubles event and placing second in the girls singles event. Jazmine was then selected for the Badminton Victorian U12 Rebels State Team, winning gold in the team event and second for the doubles event.

Grace Taranto

Clare Tuckwell

Congratulations to Grace Taranto (Year 10) who represented Australia in the Junior Matilda’s squad in Laos. Winning all three of their soccer matches, the team have qualified for the AFC U16 Women’s Championship in September, which will serve as the qualification for the 2020 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. Grace was awarded Player of the Match in her game versus Iran.

Congratulations to Clare Tuckwell (Year 7) who played in the Southern Cross Basketball Challenge. Clare was selected in the VIC Metro U14 team, who played against ACT, VIC Country, SA and WA Metro teams on the way through. Clare’s team qualified for the final, playing another VIC Metro team, winning the national trophy by one point.

Catherine, Abigail & Jemma

Congratulations to Catherine Boyle, Abigail Morley and Jemma Potts (Year 7, pictured left to right) who played for the Richmond Tigers in the Tri-State Water Polo Championships at the Kardinia Aquatic Centre in Geelong in February. The team played extremely well, winning the Premiership.

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Bethany D’Souza

Annabella & Anushka

Elizabeth & Amy

Catholic Education Week’s Visual Arts Exhibition was once again an outstanding demonstration of creativity and talent, on display at the Catholic Leadership Centre. Congratulations to Bethany D’Souza (Year 7) who won the Serra Club Portraiture Award (Primary) with her piece entitled Child of God. A talented artist, we wish Bethany every success in the future.

Congratulations to Annabella Merakis (Year 10, pictured left) and Anushka Tiwari (Year 12, pictured centre) who performed in the Victorian Opera’s production of Wagner’s Parsifal at the Palais Theatre. Annabella and Anushka are regular members of the Victorian Opera Youth Chorus Ensemble (VOYCE) and were joined by staff member Diana Simpson who performed in the chorus.

We congratulate Elizabeth Ives (Year 10, pictured left) and Amy Bourbon (Year 9, pictured right) who received Encouragement Awards at the Australian and New Zealand Cultural Arts (ANZCA) Graduation Ceremony and Concert in March for achieving extremely high standards in their music examinations whilst continuing to be active in their school’s ensembles program.

Tess Dummett

Grace Hyslop

Olivia & Olivia

We congratulate Tess Dummett (Year 12) who represented Australia in Dallas, Texas, at the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) All-Star National Championships. Tess and her team placed seventh in the competition which was an amazing achievement. Tess has been involved in dancing and cheer since she was three years old and was excited to represent her country.

We congratulate one of our star swimmers, Grace Hyslop (Year 12), who swam the Portsea Surf Life Saving Club’s Pier to Perignon; a 4km open water swim in Port Phillip Bay, commencing at the Sorrento Pier and finishing at the Portsea Pier. Grace finished in a time of 40mins 15secs and held the title of the first female without a wetsuit to cross the finish line.

We congratulate Olivia Di Cocco (Year 12) and Olivia Spyrou (Year 9) who performed with the Melbourne Youth Orchestra as part of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s Summer Sidney Myer Concert Series at the Myer Music Bowl.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Celebrating our Achievements Lauren Romanin

State Swimmers

Year 10 Eight

Congratulations to Lauren Romanin (Year 8) who qualified and played in the Victorian State Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Youth Team at the National Baseball Championships in Canberra in April. Lauren and her team won the bronze medal match in their final game against WA, winning 7:6. A great honour for Lauren and Loreto Toorak is very proud of her achievements.

Congratulations to Grace Cox (Year 5), Sophie Elstoft (Year 6), Sophie Jacka (Year 5) and Mara Cui (Year 6) who represented Loreto Toorak in the Regional Swimming Carnival, winning the 11 Years 4 x 50m Freestyle Relay and breaking the record. The team qualified to swim at the State Swimming Carnival, and performed superbly. We also congratulate Mara who placed second in the 11 Years 50m Freestyle.

Ellen Williams

Lara Burns

Anastasia Purcell

Congratulations to Ellen Williams (Year 9) who was selected for the U15 Victorian Team to compete at the National Cricket Championships in February in Canberra. Ellenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team played every state in either one day games or T20s, finishing third overall. Ellen personally took eight wickets, which was 11th overall, and placed fifth in fielding.

Congratulations to Lara Burns (Year 9) who placed second overall in the Active Feet F14-15 section of the 2018/2019 2XU Triathlon Series. The series runs over six triathlon events from November to March in Elwood, Sandringham, St Kilda and Port Arlington.

We applaud Anastasia Purcell (Year 11, pictured far right) who placed third in the Final of the U18 400m at Australian National Track and Field Championships in Sydney with a time of 56.14, and also qualified as a finalist in the U18 400m Hurdles. Anastasia has also been selected to represent Australia in the upcoming IAAF Oceania Area Championships in Townsville in June.

Congratulations to our Year 10 (Baby) Eight who competed in the NSW State Championship Regatta, taking away bronze in the Championship U17 Schoolgirl Eight Division. It was a fantastic experience for the athletes to compete in one of the pinnacle regattas on the rowing calendar, in the lead up to the National Rowing Championships.

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GirlSail We applaud the athletes of Loreto Toorak’s four sailing teams who participated in the GirlSail Regatta at Davey’s Bay, Mount Eliza, achieving wonderful results: Claudia McMahon (Year 8), Hayley Archer (Year 8), Angelique Gleeson (Year 9), Alice Dunne (Year 8), Jade Telford (Year 10), George Aulich (Year 11), Chloe Warner (Year 7) and Lucy Last (Year 7).

Aerobic Gymnastics State Team We congratulate Alexis Johnston (Year 6), Claudia McNee (Year 8), Lana Siapantas (Year 8), Sophie Varis (Year 9) and Emma Varis (Year 7) (pictured left to right) who have been selected onto the Victorian Aerobic Gymnastics State Team to compete at the National Championships in May at Hisense Arena.

Ciara Utri We congratulate Ciara Utri (Year 12) who represented Victoria in the National Hockey Championships in April in Hobart. Ciara and her team, the U18 Nationals, finished fourth in the tournament. Ciara was awarded Player of the Tournament for her efforts and skills on the field. Amazing work Ciara!

Zara & Daniela Trinh

Eleanor McFarlane

Bethany Leung

We congratulate Zara Trinh (Year 7) and Daniela Trinh (Year 11) on competing in the USA at the National Cheerleading Association of America Championships; the biggest cheerleading competition in the world, with teams from 10 countries participating. Zara and Daniela, along with their team, placed seventh out of 14 teams in their division.

Congratulations to Eleanor McFarlane (Year 11) who placed third in the final of the U18 High Jump at Australian National Track and Field Championships in Sydney with a final jump of 1.69m. We congratulate Eleanor on her amazing achievement.

Congratulations to Bethany Leung (Year 6) who was awarded the Elizabeth Stainkamph Memorial Prize by AMEB Victoria, given to the candidate who achieves the best combined result in Grade Five Theory and Grade Eight Piano examinations conducted during that year. This is an amazing achievement particularly given Bethany’s age. 43

Community

From the Engagement Office CREATING COMMUNITY

School Cocktail Party Over 900 parents gathered on the forecourt of Mandeville Hall to celebrate the commencement of the school year at our annual School Cocktail Party. The sun was shining as a sea of parents caught up with old friends and established new ones. The Cocktail Party is our most well attended event of the year and is a wonderful reflection of our engaged parent community. 44

Above: Parents enjoying the balmy evening on the forecourt of Mandeville Hall as they celebrate the commencement of another school year at the annual School Cocktail Party. Right Top: Seated guests enjoy the delicious family banquet at the inaugural Lunar New Year celebrations. Right Middle: Guests treated to a spectacular traditional Lion Dance in Winifred Square at the Lunar New Year celebrations. Right Bottom: Convenor Angela Catalfamo and Assistants Jo Evans and Nardine Bamford along with participants at the Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association Tennis Day at Royal South Yarra Lawn Tennis Club.

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Lunar New Year The inaugural Lunar New Year Celebration was held on Friday 22 February 2019 to a sell-out crowd of over 150 parents and children. Guests were treated to an exciting traditional Lion Dance and drumming performance in Winifred Square before sitting down in a transformed Crescent Theatre to a delicious family banquet. It was a wonderful atmosphere with many of our guests in traditional dress. Many thanks to our organising committee, Freda Zhou, Lucy Liu, Haiyan Fan and Meg Dwyer.

Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association Tennis Day Despite temperatures soaring into the high 30s, almost 80 of our Loreto Toorak parents participated in the annual Tennis Day at Royal South Yarra Lawn Tennis Club on Friday 1 March 2019. Groups were divided into social competition or cardio sessions and afterwards enjoyed a much-earned cold glass of sparkling and lunch in the Membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Dining Room. Thank you to the Convenor, Angela Catalfamo, who was ably assisted by Jo Evans and Nardine Bamford, for organising yet another successful day. 45

COMMUNITY

International Women’s Day We were thrilled to have Janet Whiting AM (1976) as our guest speaker for the Oration Series: International Women’s Day on Friday 8 March 2019. It was wonderful to see an increase in students attending this year who were surely inspired by Janet’s message of taking advantage of every opportunity and if there is none, to make your own. As well as having an extremely successful legal career, Janet is the President of the Council of Trustees of the National Gallery of Victoria, a director of Visit Victoria and Newman College, and is Patron of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation. She was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 2015 for her significant service to the community through the arts, health and major events sectors and as a legal professional. (L-R): Captains of School Isabella Gunn and Eloise Rosengren, with Janet Whiting AM and Dr Susan Stevens.

Family Picnic There was something for everyone at our annual Family Picnic held on Sunday 31 March 2019. Parents were able to relax and enjoy a wine or a coffee whilst the children were occupied with activities such as Ninja Warrior, Zorb Ball, Giant Chess and Jenga.

The BBQ and Cake Stall were kept busy all day as were our wonderful Year 10 students who volunteered at various stalls such as face painting and the lolly stand. Thank you and congratulations to our music students and staff who provided performances from both ensembles and soloists.

Past Pupils’ Association Golf Day A sunny day was the perfect backdrop for our annual Past Pupils’ Association Golf Day on Friday 12 April 2019 at Woodlands Golf Club. Thanks to Jo Lonergan who once again organised the event and was instrumental in bringing this year’s group of 15 ladies together. Sally Edwards won the day on 38 points, with Sara Hennessy runner up and Cathy Ockleshaw in third place on a count-back from Liz Halpin. Cathy also had the longest drive and Prue Holyman was nearest the pin on the 11th, with no one managing to stay on the green on the 17th! The ladies were treated to a delicious lunch in the dining room overlooking the first fairway. It was a great result for our team of Jo Lonergan (Connaughton), Anne Fenner (Reid), Jan Lupson and Ann Hill (Westmore) at the recent 90th Women’s Interschool Golf Challenge Cup, played at Sorrento Golf Club on Monday 1 April 2019. Placing fourth overall, our ladies played extremely well with Jan nearest the pin on the 15th and Anne Fenner on the 17th. (L-R): Prue Holyman, Cathy Ockleshaw, Sally Edwards, Sara Hennessy, Jo Lonergan.

Sorrento Golf Club has been proposed for next year’s Golf Day, confirmed for Monday 11 May 2020; a much loved Loreto tradition of over 50 years continues.

The Glade Donor Recognition

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In 2010, Loreto Toorak conducted a fundraising appeal for the redevelopment of the Glade. Donors to this appeal were recognised with their names engraved in the stone seating of this area. In the ensuing years additional names have been added. Recently we have received requests from new families who would like their family name or daughter(s) name included in this peaceful area, in perpetuity. Tax deductible donations of $500 are required for one name, $750 for two names, $1000 for three names. Donations must be received by the end of Term 2 to meet our engraving deadline. For further information, please contact: Judy Reid Director of Engagement judy.reid@loretotoorak.vic.edu.au +61 3 9823 8147

From the Heritage Centre With the publication of A Row of Goodly Pearls to celebrate 125 years of Loreto in Melbourne now a distant memory, the 20th anniversary of the re-establishment of a kindergarten at Loreto Toorak approaches in 2021. The Heritage Centre at Loreto Toorak has been busy accessioning the records that have helped document these two important chapters of our history. Thousands of documents gathered by the historian, Jane Carolan, have been sorted and catalogued on the Heritage Centre database, allowing easier access to this collection, which has helped shape the writing of this important, award winning publication. Many more details about families and past students of the School have been captured and will now assist us in undertaking additional detailed history when requested. Many families of past pupils seek to know more about their ancestors, and proactively contact the Heritage Centre for information about their time at school. As with most of our school business records, the Heritage Centre has arranged and described the records created by St Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Early Learning Centre since its foundation in 2001. The permanent records have been retained, based upon the Records Retention and Disposal Schedule for non-government

schools. Our Heritage Collection and Records Manager has co-chaired the nationwide steering committee of professional school archivists to formulate a national policy on what records a non-government school must create and records that must be retained. Hundreds of schools have now adopted this policy, which is based upon best practice, with references to state and federal legislation. Without these vital records, we wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to understand our past to know where our future lies.

STEVE STEFANOPOULOS HERITAGE COLLECTION & RECORDS MANAGER JESSICA ATTARD

ASSISTANT ARCHIVIST

COMMUNITY

Sapphire Dinner The annual Sapphire Dinner was once again well attended, this year at the iconic Myer Mural Hall on Thursday 28 March 2019. We were delighted to welcome a wonderful cross section of Loreto ladies from across many year levels, having more of our young past pupils in attendance than ever before. Michelle McCarty, our Director of Mission and Leadership, was an accomplished MC, with her good humour and ability to still a room of ever-talking ladies! Jess Young (2003) provided a superb musical showcase of three songs, wowing us with her amazing voice and talent. Steve Stefanopoulos, Loreto Toorak Heritage Collection and Records Manager and current Mayor of Stonnington, entertained us with interesting facts about our wonderful Mansion and reaffirmed his commitment to Loreto through a bequest and as a member of our Silk Society. 48

Damian Whelan, Director of Religious Education and Liturgy ably steered us through hearty renditions of Queen of Loreto and The Holiday Hymn, sung with great gusto, with delighted smiles all round. The success of the Sapphire Dinner wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be so without the ongoing and extraordinarily generous support of Julie Burke (1976) and her partner Greg Morris, of J A Morris Jewellers, who this year donated a magnificent sapphire and diamond ring, won by an excited Annie Hallam (1985) and created especially for our event. Greg has very generously donated a magnificent piece of sapphire jewellery each year since the Sapphire Dinner commenced, including earrings, a pendant and yet another superb Ceylon sapphire and diamond ring this year. We thank all who attended for continuing to support the Give a Girl a Dream Fund and look forward to seeing many of you at this signature event again next year.

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

COMMUNITY

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

Loreto Ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Luncheon The annual Loreto Ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Luncheon was held at Leonda by the Yarra on Friday 10 May 2019. Over 470 mothers combined a delicious lunch with some hotly contested shopping at the Silent Auction. The famous candy bar reappeared and the popular French Champagne Bar was enjoyed by many. Thank you to all our families who donated to the Silent Auction and to the Convenor Jacquie Blackwell and her team who worked very hard to ensure our guests enjoyed their day.

COMMUNITY

Reunions Diamond Luncheons – 60+ Years Yet another beautiful Diamond Luncheon celebration was held in Mandeville Hall Mansion with our much-loved Diamonds on Tuesday 26 February and Wednesday 27 February 2019. This tradition gathers past pupils who left our School 60 years ago or more, and this year we welcomed the Class of 1959 for the first time. There were many new, delightfully happy faces amongst the group, and much noisy chatter throughout. Our music students entertained our special guests with a magnificent rendition of If I Loved You from Carousel by Rodgers and Hammerstein, sung by Ashlea Rigney (Year 10), and Isabella Jao (Year 8) wowed us on the clarinet with the Prelude from Suite from the Victorian Kitchen Garden by George Gershwin and arranged by Eugenie Rocherolle. We were also enlightened by our visiting Rathfarnham students, being granddaughters of some of our Diamonds. They shared lovely stories of their school days as current students, making us all smile and grandmothers extremely proud. 01 (L-R): Sr Marg Finlay ibvm (1955), Pat Lurie (Cockburn, 1955) Joy Hanrahan (McDonald, 1955), Patsy Callan (Meehan, 1955), Carolyn Collins (Goulding, 1955), Dawne-Marie O’Farrell (1955). 02 (L-R): Margaret Morris (Power, 1955), Francesca Shelton (Cash, 1955), Grania Poliness (Lattanzi, 1955), Patsy Wraith (McCormack, 1955), Toni Meehan (1955), Coralie Robinson (Need, 1955), Anne Quay OAM (D’Arcy, 1955).

03 (L-R): Marie Ahearn (Barry, 1957), Di Yeldham (Lord, 1957), Ann Bennett (Curtis, 1957). 04 (L-R): Sheela Keenan (1959), Kath Payne (McInerney, 1959), Kay Kayne (Murphy, 1959).

03 52

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

Class of 1969 – 50 Years The Class of 1969 gathered on Friday 22 March 2019 in our Chapel for a truly memorable and special Mass celebrated by Fr Brendan Reed, followed by formalities in our Mansion and concluding with a school tour.

No doubt there were more extraordinary memories created on the day, and lifelong friendships rekindled, in what was a unique celebration.

Jo Gunnersen (Moon), was ably assisted by her class mates and reunion convenors Sally Edwards (Gunnis) and Jo Lonergan (Connaughton), in hosting a luncheon at her home the following Saturday. A great day was had by all, with husbands looking after the bar and caterers providing a superb gourmet lunch.

Back (L-R): Jo Gunnersen (Moon), Margie Mornement (Porter), Helen Porter (Bourke), Margie Nowak (Tiernan), Emoke Bakacs (Salacz), Jackie Harkness (Hughes), Jacq Jensen, Kate Maclurcan (Connellan), Judy Keenan (Gaffy), Judy Whitehead (Davine), Joan Landy (Bourke), Cathy Walter (Sweeney), Sabina Huggins (Lynch), Kristin Allen, Liz Webb, Mary Rowan (Coleman), Andrea Maule (England).

A significant milestone reunion of 50 years, it was a joy to see so many girls attend, some travelling considerable distances to be there. Credit must go to the Reunion Committee for their hard work and commitment to finding long-lost class mates and encouraging them to participate.

06 Class of 1969

Middle (L-R): Danielle Lord (Engagement Officer - Alumnae), Juliette MacFadzean (Noel), Libby Farries (Willers), Vikki Peters (Curtis), Barb Strachan (Taranto), Trish Fischer (Magree), Liz Halpin (Lachal), Dominie Dale, Sally Edwards (Gunnis), Fr Brendan Reed, Angela Dudley (Farley). Front (L-R): Damian Whelan (Director of Religious Education & Liturgy), Liz Stowell (O’Dwyer), Libby Downing (Collie), Jo Lonergan (Connaughton), Sr Anne McPhee, Mrs Helen Marron.

05 05 Kinder, 1957 Back (L-R): Cathy Walter (Sweeney), Dominie Dale, Jackie Harkness (Hughes). Front: Vikki Peters (Curtis), Margie Nowak (Tiernan), Liz Webb, Jo Lonergan (Connaughton)

Class of 1968 – 50 Years (Reprinted: Mandevillian, December 2018, vol. 33 no.2) 07 Kinder, 1956 Back (L-R): Anne Barnett (Best), Wendy Carew (Gerber), Adrienne Smith, Marita Wilcox. Middle (L-R): Louise Clayton, Jann Casey (Ryland), Anne Quilty (Callanan), Judy Hemingway (McCann), Joan Knowles (Fetherstonhaugh), Rosemary Lechte , Rosemary Hayes (Johnson), Audra Kascuikatis (Junokas), Anne Lechte (Kevin), Gigi O’Donohue (Douez), Margaret O’Loughlin (McCann), Sally Breheny. Front (L-R): Frances Williamson (Pitt), Sue Moloney (Walker), Sally Fletcher (Walker), Kathleen Hutchens (Timar), Christine Hauserman (Guest), Anne Fenner (Reid), Brenda Lea.

07 53

COMMUNITY

Reunions Class of 1989 – 30 Years A great night was celebrated with the Class of 1989, Friday 3 May 2019 with lots of laughter, tall tales and shared memories, entertaining us all.

02 Class of 1989

We welcomed those who attended back to Loreto Toorak for a school tour, including the Mandeville Centre and other parts of the School new to many, providing opportunities to recall school days shared together and funny anecdotes about teachers, classes and time here as students.

Row 2 (L-R): Anne-Marie Desai (Wilson), Melanie Francese (Stafford), Christine Boyle, Kirsten Fengler, Claire McCann (Folley), Katie Smith, Andrea Sutton, Jacinta Heap, Abigail Grant, Elle McKinna

An animated, fun filled get together followed locally, with opportunities to reminisce and enjoy one another’s company 30 years on.

Back (L-R): Charlotte Ostor, Marno Ryan, Sarah Trainor (Francis), Louisa Prentice (McGuigan), Chloe Podgornik (Kimberley), Jane Macey, Annabelle O’Brien (Grant), Anne-Marie Healy

Front (L-R): Jo McAuliffe (Hyland), Pauline Conlan, Vanessa Adams, Siobhan Smith (O’Callaghan), Anna Huntley (Courtney), Anna Ford (Hedigan), Lisa Luccerelli (Tropeano), Lisa Brearley

Row 3 (L-R): Kate Cannon (McGuigan), Anne Hart (Hanrahan), Camille Baker, Gisele Silk, Madeleine Grummet (Hangar), Victoria Rolleston (Chamberlain), Kate Azzopardi (Paztika), Sarah Baldwin (Moir), Sophie Burchell (Watson)

01 01 Prep, 1977 (L-R): Abigail Grant, Gisele Silk, Chloe Podgornik (Kimberley), Annabelle O’Brien (Grant), Siobhan Smith (O’Callaghan).

The Silk Society Named in honour of the silk damask in the Reception Room of Mandeville Hall, the Silk Society recognises the generosity and foresight of the growing number of past pupils and friends who have pledged to support Loreto Toorak by way of planned giving or bequests.

Bequests are most vital to the School’s ability to maintain accessibility and thus most importantly diversity. More than ever, Loreto Toorak girls are leaving the Clendon Road gates with the determination to create change and a conviction of responsibility to give forward. They are indeed, women in time. Should you wish to have a confidential discussion regarding our Silk Society, please contact: Louise McNamara (Whelan, 1982) Engagement Officer – Bequests & Endowments louise.mcnamara@loretotoorak.vic.edu.au +61 3 9823 8149

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

Women in Time

GENERATIONS OF MARY WARD WOMEN

Joan ‘Pat’ Patricia Lachal (Peppard, 1937) 22 September 1919 – 31 January 2019

Lovingly known by her nickname, ‘Pat’, along with her descendants, form a special five generations of Loreto women. First Generation Pat’s mother, Alice Rodgers, along with her sister Elizabeth Byrne Rodgers, were born in Horsham into a farming family of 10 children. Their father died when the children were young and the family struggled financially. When Elizabeth entered Loreto at the age of 16, her brothers donated £500 to the Institute to cover the cost of her teacher training. She was later ordained as Mother Xavier Rodgers ibvm. Mother Xavier Rodgers ibvm taught junior students at Loreto Albert Park and Toorak from 1921-1931 and was especially loved. When she was posted at Loreto Ballarat she would spend the holidays at Loreto Toorak with her relatives. Second Generation Alongside her sisters Eileen ‘Pompey’ Conquest (Peppard, 1939), Nancy Dowling (Peppard, 1935) and Mary Johnston (Peppard, 1931), Pat attended Loreto Toorak, studying English, French, Botany, Geography and European History to achieve her Leaving Certificate in 1936. Pat’s mother, Alice, was involved as a parent at the school, and as the President of the Loreto Kindergarten in South Melbourne, retiring in 1955. Third Generation

Fifth Generation

As wife of Paul Lachal (dec), Pat became mother of Louis Lachal, (past parent), Elizabeth Halpin (Lachal, 1969), Jennifer French, (Lachal, 1971), Joan Cumbrae-Stewart (Lachal, 1972), Pamela Pearse (Lachal, 1974), Paul and Leon.

Pat’s legacy, and the legacy of her aunt Mother Xavier Rodgers ibvm before her, continues with five great granddaughters, 14 nieces, 11 nephews, 14 grand nieces, one grand nephew, four great grand nieces, four sons-in-law and one daughter-in-law, all of whom have attended or are in some way connected to Loreto Toorak as a direct link to Pat’s attendance. Links also exist with two family members who are alumnae of St Mary’s College at Melbourne University and Loreto Kirribilli.

Fourth Generation Continuing the family connection through the generations, Pat became grandmother to Claire Lachal (1998), Joanne McColl (Halpin, 1999), Jacqueline Halpin (2001), Louise Munro (Pearse, 2001), Kathryn ‘Katie’ Lachal (2002), Amanda Officer (Cumbrae-Stewart, 2002), Alice Halpin (2007) and Fiona Pearse (2008).

Pat was an active member of the Loreto community; she looked forward to all her reunions and attended our Diamond Luncheons right up until last year at 98 years old. Below Left: Pat Peppard (far right) on the steps of Mandeville Hall, 1936 Below Right: (L-R): Mother Dominic Jones with some of her charges; Mary Rowan, Joan Barry, Pat Peppard, Mary McCarthy and Edna Murphy, 1935

COMMUNITY

Where Are They Now?

CAROLYN SHEMBRY

CLASS OF 2012

Carolyn has very fond memories of her time at Loreto Toorak, including DAV debating with Sally McKenzie and the Spring Play with Kym Maclean and the Theatre Studies staff. Following her time at school, Carolyn completed a Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne, majoring in Pharmacology and Therapeutics. She subsequently completed her Honours degree in the Department of Pathology, involving a lab-based research project exploring intra-tumour heterogeneity; essentially, understanding why only some tumour cell sub-populations resist treatment with chemotherapy or more targeted agents, and therefore cause patients to relapse. In the past 18 months, Carolyn has taken on the role of President of the Pathology Undergraduate and Graduate group at the University of Melbourne. She has also begun teaching Pathology practical classes for second and third year Undergraduate students, which she is thoroughly enjoying. Currently completing her PhD at the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Carolyn’s thesis has a similar theme to her Honours work, though she is incorporating her investigation of tumour immunology; working out how the patient’s immune system can be harnessed to target their tumour, in a way similar to how you would target an infection. She shares that it is an exciting time to be working in cancer research. Carolyn attributes being awarded a Research Training Program Scholarship from the Australian Department of Education and Training as one of her most significant career achievements. She has also contributed some research papers published in international medical and scientific journals. Laughing at the thought of having any ‘spare’ time, Carolyn says that she is a voracious reader and is known around the VCCC for always having a book in hand. Carolyn believes that the most significant takeaway from her Loreto education is the belief that women are capable of remarkable things, even in traditionally male-dominated fields such as Science. It is this world-view that has given her the confidence to pursue her aspirations. 56

SOPHIE MACKAY (WESTGARTH)

CLASS OF 1998

Sophie left ‘Mandeville’ at the end of Year 8 in 1994 to finish her education at Loreto Kirribilli in Sydney. Following this, she moved to Wagga Wagga for three years to complete her Bachelor of Arts in Design for Theatre and Television. Sophie notes her fortune in having worked with some very experienced performers. After joining the Staging Department at the Sydney Opera House, she became part of the team that constructed opera sets, ballet sets and world movie premieres; even sneaking into the VIP section of the Matrix Revolutions world premiere! After a few years, Sophie joined Opera Australia in the Stage Management Department, then spent a few years working at Ensemble and Sydney Theatre Company before returning to Opera Australia for six years. Currently, Sophie works as the Stage Manager at Dubai Opera; a multi-purpose venue receiving house which changes into different modes to fit musicals, operas, concerts and banquets. Sophie remembers walking along Circular Quay on her first day at the Sydney Opera House astounded that she was about to start work at one of the world’s most iconic buildings. There were several moments at Opera Australia; her first performance (Turandot), having a walk-on role for A Midsummer Night’s Dream (she was terrified), and being part of the team that got the Ring Cycle up and running in 10 weeks. Being part of the team to open Dubai Opera and having Placido Domingo join them for their first performance is one of her greatest moments. Being based in Dubai means that Sophie is close to the rest of the world, so says travelling is a must. She also enjoys bootcamp, diving, skiing and is a keen vintage clothing hunter. Sophie feels that the emphasis that Loreto Toorak places on its music program has been very important and influential in the path that she has travelled. She remembers being in Year 6 and singing at St Patrick’s Cathedral for Christmas and thinks her love of Midnight Oil came from the Mulhall Year 7s being given Beds Are Burning as their piece in the Performing Arts Festival. She certainly wouldn’t have been able to fulfil her duties as a Stage Manager without having a musical education, and still uses the skills that she learnt in music to this day.

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

MICHELE LAYET

CLASS OF 1975

Michele’s memories of ‘Mandeville Hall’ are some of the best times of her life. As Captain of Mulhall and the Swimming Team Captain she also loved participating in school plays. She recalls the Nuns, who wore a full habit, being an integral part of the Loreto community, and remembers hearing their rosary beads before their arrival. “In time to stop whatever we were up to!” Following school, Michele studied a Bachelor of Arts at Monash University specialising in Fluvial Geomorphology. After graduation she travelled for 12 months around Europe, Turkey, England, Russia and parts of North Africa. Sr Leonie Peterson ibvm had been her mentor in Senior School and Michele visited her in Rome in 1981. On her return to Melbourne, Michele applied for a management position at McDonald’s Australia. Michele spent 26 years at McDonald’s, first as a manager and then as one of the first female franchisees in McDonald’s Australia’s history. She was also the first female Chairperson of the McDonald’s Owner/ Operator Cooperative and board member Ronald McDonald House. The highlight of her career was raising money to build the first Ronald McDonald House in South Australia. Michele returned to Melbourne in 2008 to undertake full-time study to acquire a diploma of Professional Writing and Editing at Holmesglen TAFE. She has since published her book, From French Fries to a Franchise, which, she attests, destroys some of the weird myths surrounding McDonald’s and follows Michele’s ascent to the top of the ‘food chain’. Michele’s brothers, Paul and Nick, attended Loreto Toorak and her parents Joan and Robert were involved in every aspect of life at Loreto; Joan being on all the committees and tuck shop and Robert as the MC at many sporting events for 13 years. Michele enjoys volunteering at Very Special Kids and working with current Loreto Toorak girls at the annual fair and the Piggy Bank Appeal. Michele’s Loreto education taught her to give back whenever possible, to never give up on her dreams and not to underestimate all the beautiful lifelong friendships formed while at school.

JOANNE GUNNERSEN (MOON)

CLASS OF 1969

As a boarder, Jo recalls getting up at 6.20am to go to Mass and concluding each meal by walking out of the dining room backwards in silent pairs whilst bowing at the nuns. She remembers being in the care of the nuns, including a dressing room nun who inspected her drawers and oversaw the living and sleeping quarters and the presiding nun from whom they had to ask permission to visit girls in the next room. Convent life was certainly very strict and formal in those days. Following her education, Jo studied Business Studies, landing her first job at The Age in the advertising department. Jo was proudly the first volunteer patient liaison officer at The Bays Hospital in Mornington. She has also volunteered at the Davey’s Bay Yacht Club with junior sailing, and culturally at the National Gallery of Victoria Women’s Association, overseeing produce stalls at Garden Day. With her passion for baking passed on by her mother and grandmother, along with the family recipe for their boiled Christmas cake, Jo was inspired to contribute to research into the ‘forgotten’ cancers. Eight years ago she set up her own social enterprise, Christmas Cakes for Cancer Research, cooking 200 cakes in her first year, growing to more than 10,000 cakes last year and over $150,000 donated to cancer research. Initially each cake was baked and lovingly wrapped in her dining room, before expanding with the assistance of genU, an Australian disability enterprise who assist with the cooking whilst also benefiting people living with a disability. Jo is extremely proud of the 8,500 cakes they delivered to PWC last year. Jo was fortunate to have participated in 14 Sydney to Hobart races with her husband Thorry and their yacht Tilting at Windmills, and can now independently provision an ocean racing yacht without a list. Jo attributes her education as teaching her respect, ethics, morals and manners, alongside the opportunities her education has afforded her and the long standing friendships formed over 50 years ago which continue to this day. She looks forward to her great-niece continuing the tradition of a Loreto education. 57

COMMUNITY

Family News Births

Honours

APPLEBY, Janet (staff) and Peter, Zoe Elena, born 19/11/18, sister for Ivy COBURN, Annabel (Smith, 2000) and John, Charles Jeremy Frederick, born 11/02/19, brother for Henry and Claudia DIAMOND, Jacqueline (2000) and Richard Murray, Wesley Edward, born 29/10/18 DOYLE, Georgina (2002) and Nicholas James, Margot Pearl James, born 23/08/18, sister for Amelia and Catherine, granddaughter for Angela O’Dwyer (staff and past parent) DOYLE, Stephanie (1999) and Peter Unkles, Thomas Edward Unkles, born 21/10/18, brother for Arabella and Henry, grandson for Angela O’Dwyer (staff and past parent) KNOWLES, Phoebe (1998) and Will Mulholland, Sybilla Coco Knowles-Mulholland, born, 21/06/18, sister for Darcy, Quenelda and Hermione Beatrix MULQUEEN, John-Paul (staff) and Judy, Juniper Josephine, born 02/12/18 NICHOLLS, Kate (Gangitano, 2004) and Gareth, Harry George, born 04/01/19 PARRY, Sarah (Howard, 2004) and Duncan, George Dugald, born 14/09/18 PRESCOTT, Megan (2003) and Anthony Kent, Madeline Rose, born 05/02/16 and Maxwell William, born 21/10/17 ROSE, Lauren (Prescott, 2002) and Mark, Prescott ‘Scotty’ Michael, born 06/07/18 TEHAN, Kate (staff) and Patrick, brother of Jane (2003) and Madeleine (2013), Alice Maureen, born 20/01/19 WRIGHT, Emily (Smith, 2000) and Rollo, Clementine Elizabeth and William Roulston, born 10/08/18, sister and brother for Isabelle ZIELINSKI, Tamara (Goncharow, 1998) and Chris, William Christopher and Oliver James, born 25/05/18

BALL AO, Professor David, Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to medicine in the field of radiation oncology, to medical education, and to professional bodies. Father of Kate Blamey (Ball, 1991) and Ginny Williams (Ball, 1998), grandfather of Scarlett Blamey (Year 7) BAILEY OAM, Brian, Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the grain industry. Husband of Ann Bailey (Northam, 1956), father of Cathey Ferrari (Bailey, 1982), Jacqueline Altman (Bailey, 1984), Victoria Whillingham (Bailey, 1985), Alicia Staindl (Bailey, 1987) and Susannah Bailey (1999), grandfather of Tilly Ferrari (2016), Willow Bailey (Year 8), Annabelle Staindl (Year 5) DWYER OAM, Professor Peter L, Officer of the Order of Australia for service to medicine as an obstetrician and gynaecologist. Son of Hilary Dwyer (dec) (1933), father of Angela (1986), Holly (2002) and Chloe (2008) ROSENGREN, Jennifer (1984), Judge of the District Court of Queensland. Sister of Catherine Nash (Rosengren, 1986), aunt of Dominique (2017) and Eloise (Year 12)

Engagements DUTNEY, Sam (staff) to Chloe Daglish, 04/05/19 LITTORE, Rachael (staff) to Nick McNamara, 26/04/19 THOMAS, Laura (staff) to William Cox, 22/12/18

Weddings SIMONDS, Alicia (2007) to Ryan Crouch, 02/03/19 01 William and Oliver Zielinski 02 Zoe Elena Appleby 03 Prescott ‘Scotty’ Michael Rose 04 Juniper Josephine Mulqueen

05 Alice Maureen Tehan 06 Charles Coburn with Claudia and Henry 07 Thomas Edward Unkles 08 Ryan Crouch and Alicia Simonds

Family News

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

It is with sadness we advise that the following members of the Loreto Toorak community have died. Our sincere condolences to their families. ANDERSON ibvm, Sr Anne, aunt of Annemaree Jones, great aunt of Annabel (2011) and Charlotte (2016) Jones BARSON, Chris, 10/02/19, husband of Lynda (staff), father of Olivia (2018) and Sam BECKHAM, Elizabeth Anne ‘Lisa’, (Watson, 1979), 01/08/18, loved daughter of Bruce (dec) and Mitzi, sister of David and Jonathan Watson and Sophie Burchell (Watson, 1989), loved wife of Steven, mother of Sarah and Georgia Beckham COLES, Stephen Vincent, 08/02/19, father of Simon, Tristan and Gab (2008) DEAN, Mary (Partington, 1973), 10/02/19, sister of Elizabeth Partington (1971) and Judy Davey (Partington, 1974), cousin of Marie-Therese (1966) and Jacqueline Jensen (1969) DOYLE, Edwyna Lorraine (Fitzgerald, 1957), wife of Peter Julian, mother of Anna Beaton (Doyle, 1980), Tory Resic (Doyle, 1982), Georgina Kilroe-Smith (Doyle, 1987) and Julia (1989), grandmother of Jack, Tom, Edward, Amelia Beaton (2013), Kitty Manson (2014), Jess Kilroe-Smith (2015), Michael, Peter, Richard, Sam, John and Sarah Kilroe-Smith (Year 9), sister of John Fitzgerald (1959) and sister-in-law of Andrée Fitzgerald (Tiernan, 1961) DUNSTAN, Bridget Alice, 13/01/19, daughter of Anne (staff) and Chris, sister of Timothy and Eloise, niece of Judy Reid (Quin, 1986), cousin of Eliza Reid (2017) HUMMERSTON, Edward (Ted) John, 26/10/18, husband of Angela, father of Jennifer Teede (Hummerston, 1987), David and Emily Husband (Hummerston, 1993), father-in-law of Bruce, Nina and David, grandfather of James, Nick, Ben, Bella (2016), Ned, Charlie, Anthony and Charlotte LACHAL, Joan Patricia ‘Pat’ (Peppard, 1937), 31/01/19, wife of Paul (dec), mother of Louis, Liz Halpin (Lachal, 1969), Jenny French (Lachal, 1971), Joan Cumbrae-Stewart (Lachal, 1972), Pam Pearse (Lachal, 1974), Paul and Leon, grandmother of Jacqui Halpin (2001), Alice Halpin (2007), Claire Lachal (1998), Katie Lachal (staff) (2002), Jo McColl (Halpin, 1999), Louise Munro (2001), sister of Mary Johnston (dec) (Peppard, 1931), Nancy Dowling (dec) (Peppard, 1935), Pompey Conquest (dec) (Peppard, 1939) MEEHAN, Philip Gregory (1967), 06/08/18, husband of Judy, father of Catherine (1998), Patrick and Genevieve (2001), brother of Toni (1955) and James (1963)

MERCOVICH, Debly-Anne ‘Debbie’ (Coleman, 1965), 29/08/18, mother of Sarah Davis (Mercovich, 1990), Jane Hallam (Mercovich, 1992) and Charles, sister of Mary Elizabeth Holbeach (dec) (Coleman, 1964) and Patricia Thompson (Coleman, 1968), grandmother of Annabelle (Year 3) and Zara (Year 2) MOIR, Jan Marie (Harris), 08/03/19, wife of John, mother of Sarah Baldwin (Moir, 1989), Katherine Ypinazar (Moir, 1990) and Elizabeth Mann (Moir, 1993), mother-in-law of Giles, Craig and Shane MOYLAN, Patricia Mary, 10/05/19, sister of Michael and John, aunt and great aunt to seven nieces and nephews and their children, staff member 1970-1996 O’BRIEN, Dominic, 25/10/18, brother of Camille (Staff) O’BRIEN, Lorna Brenda (1944), sister of John, Mollie (1940), Kevin and Bryan O’DEA, Hilma, 01/06/18, mother of James, mother-in-law of Christine, grandmother of Dominique (2011) O’HARA, Pauline, 10/02/19, mother and mother-in-law of Majella and Michael Donovan, grandmother of Matilda (2013), Chiara (2015), Neve (2017) and Alice (Year 9) OGILVY, Chris, 01/11/18, husband of Prue (Winship, 1970), father of Emma Ford (Ogilvy, 1996), James and Claire Barrett (Ogilvy, 2001) son-in-law of Moya Winship (Bowen, Normanhurst, 1943) brother-in-law of Roe Maas (Winship, 1973), Sarah Perrett (Winship, 1976) and Kate McCulloch (Winship, 1980) ROCKE, Peter McIvor, 05/12/18, husband of Ann, father of Michael, Matthew, Kate Clemmens (Rocke, 1980), Paul and Liz Wells (Rocke, 1985), grandfather of Sophie (2014) and Lucy Wells (Year 9) SIM, Timothy John, 11/11/18, son of Pia (McNamara, 1971) and Peter, husband of Stephanie, father of Bonnie, brother of Hannah, Cate and Rebecca, nephew of Lisa Carew (McNamara, 1973), Catherine Sim (1980) and Anna Worner (McNamara, 1989), cousin of Rachel Voss (Carew, 2004) and Danielle Carew (2006) SMITH, Hector Arthur, 11/11/18, father of Karen (staff), Leanne and Lisa UNDERWOOD, Rodney John, 30/03/19, partner of Margaret (Meg) O’Callaghan (1988), loved uncle, brother and son

If you would like to make a contribution to our Family News section, please contact: Danielle Lord (Field, 1985), Engagement Officer - Alumnae danielle.lord@loretotoorak.vic.edu.au +61 3 9823 8148 59

COMMUNITY

Tours School

2019

Thursday 13 June Tuesday 17 September 9.00am School Tours are a great way to discover all that we have to offer and help parents make an informed decision concerning their daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education. These occasions provide an opportunity for parents and students to meet our Principal, Dr Susan Stevens, our Leadership Team, academic staff and current students. Families are able to view both the P-6 and 7-12 facilities, hear about the wide range of curriculum choices, our co-curricular activities, our pastoral care programs as well as our excellent academic results. Principalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Address commences promptly at 9.00am, after which your tour will commence. Following this, you are invited to Mandeville Hall Mansion for morning tea and the chance to speak with Susan and many other members of staff who make themselves available on these occasions.

Enquiries: Admissions Office admissions@loretotoorak.vic.edu.au +61 3 9823 8211

MANDEVILLIAN JUNE 2019 VOL. 34 NO. 1

Events & Reunions FATHERS’ DINNER

ANNUAL MUSIC CONCERT

FIDELIO QUARTET

Thursday 13 June 2019

Tuesday 30 July 2019

Sunday 4 August 2019

LORETO BALL

OPERA IN THE MANSION

FEAST DAY MASS

Saturday 17 August 2019

Saturday 31 August 2019

Friday 6 September 2019

SHOWCASE CONCERT

ENSEMBLE ANCIEN

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

Wednesday 11 September 2019

Sunday 15 September 2019

Monday 14 October 2019

PARENTS’ GOLF DAY

PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION AGM

CHRISTMAS IN THE MANSION

Friday 18 October 2019

Wednesday 6 November 2019

Sunday 9 December 2019

Past Pupils’ Association Events & Reunions Date

Event

Date

Event

13 June 2019

London/UK Reunion

13 September 2019

Class of 2014 – 5 Year Reunion

21 June 2019

Brisbane Reunion

3 October 2019

New York Reunion

27 June 2019

Singapore Reunion

11 October 2019

PPA Card & Board Games Day

2 August 2019

Class of 1979 – 40 Year Reunion

18 October 2019

Class of 2009 – 10 Year Reunion

9 August 2019

Class of 1999 – 20 Year Reunion

24 October 2019

PPA AGM

4 September 2019

Class of 2018 – 1 Year Reunion

24 November 2019

PPA & MWIA Annual Mass

10 Mandeville Crescent Toorak Victoria Australia 3142 +61 3 9823 8100 www.loretotoorak.vic.edu.au