Grammar News no 118 Dec 2015

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Number 118 – December 2015

Above:

The Main Oval at Senior School played host to the Melbourne Stars women’s cricket team during Term IV. They played two T20 games against Melbourne Grammar School’s First XI, with a victory to each side

Front cover:

Wadhurst’s talented musicians at work

Opposite:

Lunchtime activity at Grimwade House

Grammar News is published for the Melbourne Grammar School community Published by: The Lodge, Melbourne Grammar School, 355 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004 Telephone: +61 3 9865 7555 Email: newsletter@mgs.vic.edu.au Editor: Peter Davies Layout & pre-production: Drew Gamble Photographs by: Enrico Arceci, Stewart Brook, Peter Davies, Kate Elliott, Drew Gamble, James Grant & Madeline O’Connor Melbourne Grammar School respects the privacy of its community members and is bound by the National Privacy Principles under the Commonwealth Privacy Act. For a copy of the School’s Privacy Policy please visit the School’s website at www.mgs.vic.edu.au or contact the School on +61 3 9865 7555

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In This Issue 4 From the School Council 5 From the Headmaster 6 News 15 Boarding 16 Grimwade House 18 Wadhurst 20 Senior School 22 Outdoor Education 24 Indigenous Programme 25 The Old Melburnians 28 Community News 30 Community Events 32 The Foundation 33 Friends of Grammar 34 From the Archives 35 Around the School

About this issue When we think about health and wellbeing, it’s easy to jump instantly to the default position: exercise, healthy diet and lifestyle. But there’s a bit more to it than that. In this issue, we explore the multipartite nature of health and wellbeing.

In the last few months, students have been involved in a number of activities that focus specifically on mental and physical health, including Health and Wellbeing Week and R U OK? Day (page 8). The holistic nature of wellbeing has been a central idea in much of the discussion at these events.

Physical recreation has always been an important part of wellbeing, and activities such as swimming (page 10) and athletics (page 13) promote teamwork, commitment and engagement. Another layer, focusing on social and emotional wellbeing, factors strongly in the Beyond the Gates outdoor education programme (page 22), with time dedicated to introspection.

Elsewhere in this issue, we farewell the Class of 2015 (page 6); we interview Nobel-Prize-winning physicist Brian Schmidt about the challenges of science education; and we report on a recent Values in Action event at Grimwade House. We also catch up with Old Melburnians Yu-Tze Ng (OM 1985) and Michael Gregory (OM 1991) (pages 26 and 27).

Wishing you a safe and restful end to the year.

Peter Davies Editor Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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From the School Council Fully alive The other essential ingredient in the balance is mental wellbeing. It is also far too easy to take psychological and emotional wellbeing for granted. According to the SANE Australia website, some form of mental illness affects one in five people every year in Australia. The R U OK? website reports that, each year, over two thousand Australians commit suicide and there are an additional thirty failed suicide attempts. R U OK? strives to connect with people who are in psychological or emotional need. Dealing with mental affliction is also a daily act of courage and merits the community’s empathy and support.

Michael Bartlett

Juvenal, the first-century AD Roman satirist, provides us with a neat summary of wellbeing: mens sana in corpore sano – “a healthy mind in a healthy body”. Interestingly, the Japanese sportswear manufacturing brand Asics is a variation on Juvenal’s original quotation and is an acronym for anima sana in corpore sano, or “a healthy spirit in a healthy body”. Balance is obviously implicit in this very important concept. How often have we adults received encouragement from concerned family members, friends or the all-pervasive media to lead a more balanced life? And how often have we viscerally felt the need for more balance in the increasing “busyness” of our digitally connected lives?

Physical wellbeing is an essential ingredient of this illusive “balance”. It is far too easy to take physical health for granted. Many people are born with, or incur during their lives, physical impairment. So many people live with daily physical pain. We have all been humbled and moved to tears, frequently, by examples of individuals who, with breathtaking courage and determination, face great physical adversity. To deal with physical affliction is a daily act of courage and deserves empathy and support from the community. Also, with advancing years, physical degeneration is a natural part of the human life cycle.

Modern psychologists talk about the need for physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual wellbeing in the quest for a balanced, fulfilling and nourishing life. We all know that theory is one thing and that practical execution is another. To achieve that admirable quadrinity, all at the same time, would be a greatly satisfying achievement and would, perhaps, also involve a great deal of luck. Or would it? Trying to juggle the daily demands of work and family, just to name a few, might conspire to make the achievement of all four at the same time challenging. And each individual would have differing individual requirements to achieve such a balance. But if they could be achieved, what would that look like? What would it feel like?

In response to these questions, I have always been impressed by an affirmation by the second-century AD Saint Irenaeus: “The glory of God is man fully alive”. Today, of course, Irenaeus would say, “The glory of God is man and woman fully alive”. I very much like that concept of feeling “fully alive”. It is the best evidence for the existence of wellbeing. We have all experienced glimpses of feeling “fully alive” and that intensity of feeling which abounds when, for example, the essay simply flows off the pen, or the runs are flowing effortlessly and regularly off the bat, or you win possession repeatedly and have perfect control of the football, or you “absolutely nail” an acting or musical performance, or you positively affect someone’s life in some small way from a social service activity. Relationships with special people, being in nature, appreciating the soaring achievements of mankind in any of the arts, or moments of reflection in the Chapel can and do contribute to this feeling of being part of something greater than and outside the normal.

Because we are human, we can only achieve glimpses of being “fully alive”. Because we are human, we should aspire to feel “fully alive” on a more regular basis. And just imagine the effects if we could do so more regularly.

Michael Bartlett Chair

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From the Headmaster Innovating Traditions To innovate or maintain tradition, that is the question, whichever is nobler in the mind? Schools like Melbourne Grammar, in particular, often face the difficulty of establishing a culture which incorporates both important elements.

Innovation within a school context focuses upon creating a culture of review, evidence-based improvement and goal setting. The aim must be to provide meaningful learning experiences through the adoption of new ideas, practices and programmes to improve student outcomes.

I believe education is currently in the midst of a significant period of change, affected markedly by new technology, but also by a number of societal drivers. Educators are critically reviewing many of the old orthodoxies and paradigms; at the same time, practices and technologies that have evolved in other parts of our lives are being reimagined in an educational context. However, to ignore the very good traditions and established mores in a school setting is to disregard the practices which are tested, tried and true. To remove the best of a school’s traditions risks losing contact with its soul. Balance, therefore, is the key. Innovation is an important underpinning for all areas of schooling – teaching and learning most importantly, as core business; but also adopting new approaches to co-curricular activities, pastoral care, business practices and engagement with the broader community.

Fundamentally, innovation springs from adopting a forwardlooking and an outward-looking approach. Melbourne Grammar School has completed a new vision, mission, values and educational principles document. It is a strategic plan for our future, certainly over the next decade. Created by the School Executive, it is based on many things and includes the statement that MGS will “provide an effective, challenging and transformative learning environment, by aspiring to enrich the quality of the human relationships that exist within it; namely, the interrelations between its students, staff and entire community.”

Whilst the entire School community contributes to the creation of an innovative environment, the MGS teaching staff play a key role. We encourage critical thinking in our classrooms and, through some unique professional development programmes, provide opportunities for staff to learn from their peers and to share their classroom practices.

Opening the classroom door to other teachers will end the claim, once made by Professor Brian Edwards, that “teaching is the second loneliest profession in the world”. The result is a teaching and learning culture that is open to new ideas, that seeks continuous improvement and rewards creative applications of knowledge.

Roy Kelley

To my mind, there are three critical factors that allow innovative practices to succeed. First, a desire to improve and an openness to change. Second, a culture of risk-taking and innovation that encourages teachers and learners to seek inventive solutions. Third, a preparedness to fail, combined with a readiness to learn from the experience.

Across MGS, there is a commitment to looking forward.

Whilst we remain very much aware of the School’s strong heritage, we aspire to create dynamic learning experiences for our current students and the generations to come. We are proud to offer an innovative curriculum from Prep to Year 12, with scope for individual teachers to devise engaging, effective, learning activities in a technology-rich environment.

One important development is the connections we are making in Melbourne, and beyond, through our Values in Action service learning programme. The new leadership model, without the appointment of prefects in the Senior School, is another example.

An area in need of substantial change is the VCE, established in 1987. There is no doubt that the VCE was an innovative model for its time, but we are in urgent need of a new approach, both in terms of curriculum and assessment. The VCE model is deeply rooted in the 20th century, and we have a responsibility to meet the needs of our current and future generations, with a senior school curriculum and assessment model which reflects 21st century learning. Hopefully, our political and educational decision-makers will grasp this challenge very soon.

Roy Kelley Headmaster

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News Valete Class of 2015

As the year draws to a close, we say farewell to the Class of 2015. At their recent Valedictory celebrations, School Captain Freddie Young reflected on this milestone.

“High school, in itself, is a rather dangerous concept.

You get a thousand boys, all at the hormonal tempest we call puberty, and throw them into the one venue. Also, there’s homework, four years of it, and why do we do this? In a word: education. At the end of our time here at Melbourne Grammar School, we each hope to have received an education. The definition of such a word, most would correctly say, is the process of learning, of attaining information. Such a definition would be conducive to the notion of an ATAR, a score, a number. I’m eighteen years old, I have a size thirty-two waist, and in the morning, on a good day, I’m 5’11. But I’m not a number; none of us are.

It would make things a little easier if we were, if we all just categorised ourselves into neat lines of ones and zeros. But we can’t, we shouldn’t. We must do our best to challenge the at times overwhelming idea that our ATAR is somehow the summation of our time at the School, or of our education as a whole. Every boy here would say that their ATAR wouldn’t even begin to describe what has occurred over the past four years, what happens every day at the Bluestone.

A number cannot replace the memory of reaching the summit of Mount Kosciuzsko, of that time Dave kicked a ball through the Chaplain’s window and all the little victories and tragedies in between. Rather, we contest that the lessons of the classroom, though valuable, are not what will remain with us in years to come. As proof, we invite any adult present to recount the functions of a circle, or explain the socio-economic benefits enjoyed by Barcelona after hosting the Olympics. Such a task may prove difficult, even

painful for some. A much more pleasant exercise would be the recollection not of such academic theories, but of the fun you had learning them. Fun may be a bit of a stretch, but I honestly wouldn’t be surprised if, in a decade or two, the memory of staying up late to finish that essay, of trying to cheat on that vocab test in Year 7, or the memory of some Biology teacher’s frankly absurd tie collection come to mind and bring a smile. From this, it would not then be unreasonable to propose that the nobility and the joy of education does not lie in the attaining of knowledge, but in its pursuit.

The greatest lessons we’ve learnt at this School have been incidental, flukes really. We never intentionally sought out the knowledge to attain friends, to make our own choices or to cheat on vocab tests in Year 7. They all happened while we were running after something else, thus, the measure of our time at Grammar, our greatest victory, is not how far we’ve come, but what we’ve learnt along the way and how far we may go still, in any direction we want. And so, in life beyond the Bluestone, beyond our homerooms and our teachers, we should keep up the chase. For the moment we stop running is the moment we stop learning, stop growing.

So, run. If you trip, at least you fell in the right direction. If you can, pick yourself up, help those around you, and just keep on moving. That’s what it means to be educated, to be a Grammarian. So, on behalf of all the boys here tonight, we’d like to thank our teachers and each other, it’s been a hell of a chase. Thank You.” Freddie Young School Captain 2015

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News Health & Wellbeing The multifaceted nature of mental and physical health was the starting point for Health and Wellbeing Week at Senior School. The CHASE Committee, led by chair David Leahey (Year 12), put together a week-long schedule of activities that explored the various elements that keep us feeling and looking well.

The whirr of bike-powered juice machines drew a sizeable crowd on Monday morning for Bike ’n’ Blend. Boys selected their desired fruits and vegetables and then produced their own juice using pedal power. “It was so well patronised they had three or four boxes of fruit and yoghurt and it was all gone by recess!” says Mr Nathaniel Coull, Head of Physical Education.

Patrice O’Brien, Head of Workplace Engagement at beyondblue, delivered a fascinating lunchtime presentation on the interconnected elements that make up good health.

Her presentation went beyond the importance of physical activity to explore the value of taking time to relax, practising mindfulness and getting a good night’s sleep. “Patrice really emphasised how important sleep is in managing stress levels. Students need to understand that cortisol levels increase every time you are deprived of sleep, and that can really contribute to feeling overwhelmed,” Nat explains.

A sumo-suit challenge drew attention to the social and recreational aspects of health and wellbeing, while meditation with Mr George Tzikas, MGS Teacher of Art, and a documentary titled Beyond Thought encouraged boys to consider the importance of mental health, mindfulness and taking time to pause and reflect. “For young men, they have

a tendency to just think about the physical – body image and things like that – rather than thinking about the holistic nature of wellbeing and how one influences the other. That’s what the Committee was trying to achieve, to really show the interaction of various well-being elements,” Nat adds.

R U OK? Day Day to day, young people confront a diverse range of issues inside and outside of School that are likely to impact on their wellbeing, including anxiety, depression, peer pressure and relationships with family and teachers.

In this context, wellbeing is a collective responsibility in which the School community accepts responsibility for students’ success, and exercises a duty of care for students’ wellbeing. The collective works toward a common goal to contribute to students’ physical, mental and emotional health.

The School environment can be a safe haven for many young people so, as a community, it’s important that we are aware of the personal needs and issues faced by our students. Students need to feel confident enough to inform others of their challenges so that they can be provided with encouragement, resources and appropriate support networks to help them cope effectively.

In September, Senior School students and staff recognised R U OK? Day, which is dedicated to educating people

about how to reach out to others and celebrating the value of community and friendship. One of the most important lessons is learning how to watch out for signs that someone might not be not okay, such as being withdrawn or emotional and noting changes in behaviour. Students and staff were encouraged to check in with friends, family and colleagues by asking “are you okay?”, listening to the answer and, if required, recommending that they speak to a School Counsellor, GP or other adult. Connecting meaningfully and regularly is one thing everyone can do to make a difference to anyone who might be struggling.

The Counselling Services Department sponsored a special morning tea for School staff and a sausage sizzle for students at lunchtime.

Barbara Jones Head of Counselling Services

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How the universe works

“Science is pretty universal,” says astrophysicist Brian Schmidt, winner of the Nobel Prize for Physics and guest speaker at a recent Community Speaker Series event.

“We always think Physics is hard, Biology is easy and so on. But it’s just not true. They’re all interesting and they all have aspects that make them challenging. Taught in school, they’re often perceived as being hard. From that point of view, the basic premise of science – asking questions and seeking answers to them – is very universal.”

It is this belief in the importance for science literacy that has guided Professor Schmidt though an incredibly successful academic career, culminating in his recent appointment as Vice-Chancellor of the Australian National University. Despite a busy schedule, Professor Schmidt kindly spent a day at Melbourne Grammar School during Term III, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for education and science.

Professor Schmidt is unequivocal about the importance of science in Australia’s future. “Fifty years from now, we’re going to see an Australia that is completely dominated by technology, and we need to decide now whether we’re going to make that technology or import it.”

To equip the next generation to deal with this changing future, he says educational institutions must provide the right facilities to engage students and enrich their learning experiences. “Solving problems is what life is all about and it can be fun, it can be motivating. Schools need to provide the right tools for students to do experiments, they need to have flexible learning activities, and they need to encourage digital inputs. They need to have the equipment of today – not of a decade ago, or two decades ago, or five decades ago!”

Professor Schmidt’s first appointment was an informal lunchtime presentation with students interested in Physics and astronomy. During the afternoon, he spent time with staff, exploring the exciting opportunities for science education in the future.

In the evening, Professor Schmidt took to the stage for the Community Speaker Series event. In a packed Wadhurst Hall, he explored the mysteries of the cosmos and the pioneering research that saw him receive the Nobel Prize.

Intending to measure the expansion rate of the universe, he and his research team spent three years measuring the cosmos. “At the end, we got our answer – but it was the wrong answer. Our measurements showed that the universe was expanding slower in the past and that it has sped up over the last six billion years. Why would it speed it up? In some way, gravity had to be repulsive instead of attractive,” he explained.

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News Breakfast in the Barak On a regular day, the Barak Gallery is a peaceful space at the heart of the Bluestone. Students and staff move through the space from one side of the Quad to the other, but its sky-lit space and artworks invite a moment of introspection. Early this term, the Gallery played host to a special breakfast celebrating the School’s Indigenous Programme.

The intimate event drew together generous OMs and parents who have chosen to support the School’s Indigenous Programme. As guest speaker, Bernard Kelly (OM 2013, pictured right with Headmaster Roy Kelley and the President of The Old Melburnians, Andrew Brookes) shared some reflections on his time at the School, beginning with his arrival in Year 9 in 2010. “Coming to Melbourne Grammar from Darwin was the biggest decision of my life at that point. I thought I had a say in it – but the truth is, my parents had already packed my bags!” he recalled.

While life in School House was a world away from the home he’d known in Darwin, Bernard found the School a welcoming but challenging environment. “I felt comfortable coming into a well-established Indigenous Programme, where I could see some familiar faces, faces from Indigenous backgrounds.”

Since graduating, Bernard has been studying at the University of Melbourne and living at Trinity College. After completing two years of an Arts degree, he is taking a step toward his dream of becoming a physiotherapist by transferring to Bachelor of Science for 2016. “The opportunity at Melbourne Grammar taught me many lessons, within the classroom and

without. I’ve always been an independent person, but my time here really pushed me further, to a point I couldn’t have imagined before,” Bernard says.

Through the Indigenous Programme, Melbourne Grammar School provides bursaries for young Indigenous men to join the School community. Through philanthropy, the School hopes to secure funding for five additional bursaries.

The programme is also underpinned by a wide range of curricular and extracurricular activities that help all Melbourne Grammar School students develop a shared understanding.

Swimming Season Launch Camp An eager squad of swimmers from across the three campuses gathered for the Swimming Season Launch Camp in October.

This inaugural event was designed to inspire the team in preparation for the forthcoming season.

Coach Buddy Portier was assisted by two very special guests – Olympic swimmers Kenrick Monk and Andrew Lauterstein. Participants split into two groups, working through gym and fitness activities and then participating in drills in the pool. After a barbecue lunch, the boys enjoyed

an inspiring presentation by Kenrick and Andrew, who provided fascinating insights into their Olympic careers, the importance of persistence and navigating the highs and lows of sport at the elite level.

“Swimming takes a real commitment, with training three or four days a week,” says the Swimming Parent Committee which helped organise the event with Mr Phil O’Connor, Head of Service Learning. “Our aim was to help the boys learn some skills, participate in drills and build their fitness, while making it a fun day as well.”

After some relay practice in the afternoon, the session finished with some free time on the FlowRider, MSAC’s surf simulator.

“There are some really strong swimmers in the team, and they achieved great results at the APS finals. We’re excited to see them keep developing their skills”.

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The Producers When the Headmaster describes something as “outrageous” and “irreverent”, you might anticipate that a liberal allocation of detentions is on the way. But in the case of this year’s Senior School Musical, The Producers, that was just the desired reaction.

The show takes place in 1950s New York, where has-been Broadway producer Max Bialystock (Freddie Young, Year 12) forms an unlikely partnership with neurotic accountant Leo Bloom (Milan Kantor, Year 12) who dreams of a life less ordinary. Their scheme: to put on a show that will inevitably fail, allowing them to pocket the funds raised when it closes after opening night. Devising a certain failure seems to come easily to Bialystock – he secures the rights to an off-the-wall musical named Springtime for Hitler, written by escaped Nazi Franz Liebken (Ed Rickards, Year 12). Next, he enlists the services of the flamboyant Roger De Bris (Lachlan Ross) to take the lead in an all-singing, all-dancing war-glorifying spectacular.

up to the show was time well spent, with every person on stage delivering thoughtful, engaging portrayals of their characters. The leads were finely polished in every respect, and the chorus – playing variously a mob of theatre-investing grannies, a crowd of De Bris’s glamourous party people, and a cast of high-stepping Bavarians – made the most of the ensemble scenes.

Director Mr Mark Brady, Head of Drama, perfectly captured the racy, witty and utterly non-PC tone of Mel Brooks’ original. It was clear that the months of rehearsals leading

Judging by the audience’s cackles and vigorous applause, it was an unbridled success.

The production also benefited from thoughtfully conceived sets and costumes that captured the mood of mid-century Manhattan. The orchestra attacked the score with vigour, and the crew deserve praise, too, for ensuring the smooth management of many complicated set changes.

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News Dream Stitches

Priscilla, Rebecca, Victoria & Sarnitha from Dream Stitches have been working on new cassocks & surplices for the Chapel Choir

A wonderful evening of music and worship, the Choral Evensong at Trinity College, The University of Melbourne was sung by the MGS Chapel Choir and the Choir of Trinity College. It was also the perfect opportunity for the MGS Choir to debut its brand new set of cassocks and surplices. In addition to the congregation on the night, the Choir was happy to welcome several of the hard-working ladies from Dream Stitches, a sewing group that has been working on the robes since last year.

Dream Stitches is a programme funded by Anglicare Victoria and the Parish of Box Hill. Formed around ten years ago, the programme is run out of St Phillip’s Anglican Church, by a dedicated group of volunteer instructors who teach sewing skills to refugee women, with the aim of helping them to supplement their family income. Meeting every Friday, Dream Stitches also provides an important social and support community to the women as they adjust to life with their families in Australia.

The replacement of the Choir’s old robes has been a long process, involving over twelve months of discussion and planning. The selection of fabrics, both light enough for comfort in summer temperatures and rugged enough to withstand future generations of choristers was considered carefully, as was the calculating of a broad range of sizing, allowing for the smallest of Year 6 boys through to the tallest Year 12. Deep hems allow for the adjustments required during the year as the boys grow, and choirmaster Philip

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Carmody’s wish for long pointed surplice sleeves was granted. The end result has the Chapel Choir now looking as fine as they sound, and the MGS community can be rightfully proud of them on both fronts.

The Chapel Choir would like to thank Dream Stitches coordinator Jenifer McKenzie and project leader Sue Wheeler for the enormous amount of time and effort they volunteered to ensure such a successful outcome, and the instructors and sewers – Jill, Janelle, Maree, Victoria, Priscilla, Rebecca and Sarnitha – for all their hard work.

Thanks also go to the Friends of Grammar 2014 committees, especially Presidents Anna Cave, Rachel Keeble and Georgina Porter, for their support in allocating hard-earned FOG funds to finance this project.

For more information about Dream Stitches, please contact Jenifer McKenzie at jenifermckenzie@gmail.com.

APS Athletics A tough field of competitors inspired some brilliant performances at the recent APS Athletics Finals for 2015, as Melbourne Grammar School’s top athletes gathered at Lakeside Stadium.

One of the day’s most exciting events was Harry Manton’s (Year 7) performance in the U14 high jump. He cleared 1.76 metres, setting a new APS record in the process. Team Captain Alex Gruen (Year 12) placed first in the Open 1500metre event, with a time of 4.10.89. The School’s long jump prospects are also looking strong, with Max Pegoli (Year 8) and Ed Michelmore (Year 10) both taking first place in the U15 and U17 events respectively.

Of course, these are just a few of the outstanding efforts on the day and all members of the team can be proud of their contribution. Together, the team finished in fourth place, an excellent achievement.

“I would like to thank all the boys who put in so much time, hard work and effort to the athletics programme. We hope they enjoyed the season, learned something new and feel like they’ve improved as an athlete,” said Mr Alex Lorraway, Head Coach of Athletics.

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News Obscura 2015 The Old Melburnians War Memorial Hall was transformed into an art gallery for this year’s Obscura mystery postcard event. A veritable treasure trove of postcard-sized artworks was on display, demonstrating inventive, unexpected and dazzling examples of artistic talent.

There were over five hundred artworks on show, contributed by members of the School community – creative students, staff, professional artists and designers. The catch, of course, is that the name of the artist isn’t revealed until after the artwork is purchased – a true test for the collector’s eye!

The event drew over three hundred eager collectors keen to secure a masterpiece. Guests were also treated to an incisive keynote address by current parent Rupert Myer AO (OM 1975, pictured right), who is the Chair of the Australia Council for the Arts. He shared his insights on the creative process and art’s ability to reflect the “spirit of the age” in which it was produced.

Funds raised from the event will make an important contribution to the School’s Sculpture Walk, with the first piece currently being completed by artist Professor Callum Morton (OM 1982). Funds raised at Obscura have also been directed to the Melbourne City Mission’s Academy.

The arts@mgs committee – Sandra Shmith, Susan Jones, Kate Alstergren, Gaye Weeden, Morena Buffon and Fiona Stephens – did an exceptional job of bringing the event to fruition.

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Boarding A new Head of House for Creswick Creswick, the School’s junior Boarding House, welcomes a new Head of House next year. Ms Kris Faithfull, Mathematics Coordinator at Wadhurst, will be helping new boarders in Year 7 and 8 settle into their new home from the beginning of 2016.

Having joined Wadhurst in 2014, Kris brings with her some very direct boarding experience. “I’m really coming to the position from the other side – I spent a number of years as a boarding parent, and I think that experience will give me some useful insights into the experience of Creswick parents,” she says. “My two daughters both boarded at Geelong Grammar and I saw what a valuable, wonderful experience it was for them.”

Alongside her classroom responsibilities, Ms Faithfull is looking forward to immersing herself in a pastoral role with a boarding focus. “It’s quite a different sort of support and different relationship to the classroom role,” she says. “I hope that I’ll be able to bring a kind of maternal understanding – sending my girls off to boarding school was one of the hardest decisions my husband and I had to make, so I feel a real empathy for boarding families.”

Before starting at Melbourne Grammar School, Kris taught at The Cathedral School of St Anne and St James and Kirwan State High School, both in Queensland. One of her most exciting roles was as Community Liaison and Education Officer with the Australian High Commission in London. “It

was an amazing opportunity to support DFAT staff working abroad to settle in and find a school for their children. In many ways, we were their first point of call; understanding parents and their priorities concerning their children’s education will be a useful foundation for this role,” Kris adds.

Kris is looking forward to working closely with the other members of the Creswick team – Mr Evan Coventry, Head of Caffin House, Mr Tim Bratton, Teacher of Mathematics, and two GAP students. She’ll be looking for opportunities to work closely with the senior Boarding Houses. “We’re part of the boarding community, so we’ll be taking part in many of the activities organised by the Senior Houses, where it’s appropriate for twelve to thirteen-year-old boys.” The Creswick students will come in a few days before term commences to participate in orientation activities.

Kris is looking forward to introducing her husband, Kim, and daughters Emily and Jess to the boarding family. “It’s important that we maintain a real home-away-from-home feel in Creswick. Without their parents nearby, the boys need to feel safe and secure in a space where they can be themselves,” she says.

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Grimwade House Farewell Mr Boyd At the end of this year, the Grimwade House community will bid a fond farewell to its valiant leader, Mr Andrew Boyd, who will be finishing his term as Head of Grimwade of House. Fortunately, it’s not goodbye; rather, see you soon, as Andrew will be taking up a new role as Director of Advancement and Admissions in The Lodge.

Andrew says that seeing young people grow and flourish is one of the aspects he has enjoyed most about his time at Grimwade House. “Students want to know that you have their best interests at heart and that you’re going to help them to be best they can be. That’s one of the charming things about a primary school – at the end of their School journey, it’s unbelievably satisfying to see how far they have come.”

In his new role, he will oversee the operations of The Lodge at the Senior School campus, including admissions, alumni relations, philanthropy, communications and marketing. “I’m excited about this new opportunity because I truly believe in what the School is trying to do. I’m looking forward to being involved with the Old Melburnians and the Friends of Grammar and getting to know the School from a different perspective,” Andrew says. “In the philanthropic space, I’ve seen first hand the benefits that the community’s generosity has provided at Grimwade House, and I’m looking forward to encouraging that from a different perspective.”

During his eighteen-year tenure at the junior school, Andrew has been proud to see Grimwade House go from strength to strength. “Grimwade House is a fantastic community.

We have a lot of goodwill from staff, students and parents.

It was palpable when I came, and I’ve been pleased to see that sense of oneness has grown over the years.”

Alongside an extensive building programme, Andrew has also overseen changes to the curriculum, incorporating new technology that didn’t exist two decades ago. “The curriculum is now cohesive, well structured and well articulated, from Prep all the way to Year 6 and beyond.”

We asked several students what they like most about Mr Boyd.

“He’s funny.”

“He gives out heaps of school stamps.”

“He’s kind to people.”

“He is a really good singer and guitar player.”

“He helps make school into a better environment.”

“He helps everyone” Andrew is quick to credit the valuable input of the staff and parents at Grimwade House as key drivers in the School’s success. “I take a real sense of collective pride that we’ve all been able to do this together, to develop such a strong and cohesive School community. There is a sense of mutual support,” he adds.

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Andrew sees his next adventure as the perfect opportunity to keep developing his own talents. “I believe people should be lifelong learners – after eighteen years of being the Head of the School, I’m looking forward to furthering my own learning!” he says.

Congratulations, Mr Boyd, on eighteen exceptional years at Grimwade House.

Caine’s Arcade Arcade fun visited Grimwade House earlier this term, courtesy of the creative talents of Year 3 students.

Inspired by Caine’s Arcade, an online video in which a young boy constructed his own arcade games to share with passersby, Grimwade House students set about transforming recycled cardboard into arcade classics. They then invited their friends in Year 1 and Year 2 to join the carnival, in exchange for a gold-coin donation.

The project was part of the Values in Action programme at Grimwade House, explains Mr Brad Whittle, Year 3 Teacher.

“This year, the students selected Koala Kids, a charity that seeks to make a difference to the lives of children and adolescents with cancer and their families,” he adds.

“We hope the money we raised helps Koala Kids to care for children and families going through a tough time and we hope you see a smile on their faces,” said Sammy Tallis, Hugo Dale, Ollie Barnard and Zara Nikakis (all Year 3).

All about leadership “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” This quote from John Quincy Adams, the sixth US President, set the scene for this year’s Year 5 Leadership Conference at Grimwade House.

Over two days, students participated enthusiastically in workshops, lectures and interactive sessions with a range of compelling speakers. On the first day of the conference, rapt silence greeted AFL footballer Bachar Houli as he recounted the challenges he had faced as a professional athlete and a young Muslim. He encouraged the girls and boys to work hard and to be true to themselves.

On the second day, paralympian Hannah Macdougall and AFL goal umpire Chelsea Roffey looked closely at the role of women in leadership and the particular challenges women may face in their professional lives. Both presenters shared illuminating personal experiences, which left the students with plenty to think about.

Also on the programme, Ms Pam Grills explored the idea of leadership through giving back while Mr Matt Houniet led a session on the strength of teamwork. Assisting Matt were leaders from Wadhurst who guided Grimwade students through various teamwork activities out on the oval. Students also attended a “Dilemma Busting” session on ethical behaviour and heard from the current Grimwade House Captains about what is really involved in leadership.

The Leadership Conference is an important learning experience for Year 5 students as they participate in a range of service roles in Year 6. “Leadership is a commonly used but frequently misunderstood concept,” says Mr John Donaldson, Leadership Coordinator at Grimwade House.

“During this conference, students were challenged to consider the influence that leadership has on today’s society and how they can use the opportunities afforded to them to develop their personal leadership capacity.”

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Wadhurst Crop-a-Kid A preponderance of buzz-cut heads filled Wadhurst classrooms this term. Rather than a spontaneous fashion trend, these freshly shorn heads were the result of the annual Crop-A-Kid fundraiser in support of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

On the last day of Term III, over a hundred daring individuals visited the makeshift salon in the Wadhurst Drama Room, with students and volunteer parents ably manning the clippers.

Students in Year 7 and 8 put their energy into fundraising, contributing an impressive $21,000 to the cause. The School has been supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation for the last eleven years, contributing more than $200,000 to their most important projects.

“This year we granted wishes to two children with cancer: seven-year-old James and eight-year-old Jamie,” explains Mr Matt Houniet, Coordinator of Leadership and Service Learning at Wadhurst. “We raised enough to buy them and their families a holiday to the Gold Coast, to visit the theme parks. James and Jamie are both in remission from Burkitt’s lymphoma.”

Congratulations to all the boys who took part. It was a stellar effort and a great result.

Canterbury Tales What makes a good story? This question was front of mind for Wadhurst’s talented thespians as they delivered a spirited performance of Chaucer’s classic, The Canterbury Tales. The Wadhurst Deck was transformed for the occasion, playing host to an enthusiastic audience of three hundred people.

Under the guidance of Ms Fiona Mackenzie, Head of Drama at Wadhurst, the cast did an outstanding job, capturing the energy, wit and humour of Chaucer’s story. The tavern scene was full of vim and vigour, and the boys took a somewhat ghoulish delight in their on-stage fighting. Mr Meyer’s bagpipe playing was a fitting accompaniment.

The boys took part in an intensive fifteen-week rehearsal schedule, which challenged them to develop their acting skills and maintain their focus on the show’s complex script and staging.

The cast and crew can be proud of a thoroughly entertaining performance.

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The wit, humour & intricate storytelling of Chaucer’s classic The Canterbury Tales came to life on the Wadhurst stage

Newtonian rockets!

Meteors, Newton’s laws of motion and rockets were on the agenda for Wadhurst’s budding physicists this semester.

Working with Mrs Julia Thiele, Extension Studies students from Year 7 and 8 focused their efforts on Aerospace and learning more about how the world works. One activity was an incursion which explored the wonders of the universe.

Students heard from a scientist in the School of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment at Monash University.

Newtonian rockets were launched from the oval in the second session. Students explored laws of motion, and the water-filled rockets were a safe but exciting way to demonstrate the transfer of energy. Students lined up along the edge of the launch station, pressurising their water rockets before they shot off into the sky. Some enjoyed a trajectory that would make NASA proud; others sputtered along the turf in their own distinctive style.

The final unit continued the theme of rocketry, considering the history and techniques of rocket construction. Dr Philip Hingston, Head of Design Technology at Wadhurst, was enlisted to help the boys test their rocket motors. Boys launched their motors on a track and then measured their thrust. Amidst the smoke, flashes and loud noises, the boys extrapolated the size of the rocket that could be launched based on the performance of their motors.

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Senior School Swags for the Homeless As part of a new student-organised and student-run charity initiative, the fair and upstanding gentlemen of Morris House took part in a “sleep-out” to raise funds for a Australian-based charity, Swags for the Homeless, during September.

The charity was selected by Morris House’s Year 12 students following a long period of research and conversation with different charities around the country. Led by House Captain & Vice-Captains Luca Sdraulig, Elliot Howitt-Ross and Lachie Jobling, the boys decided that the most meaningful initiative would be to raise both awareness and funds for an important issue that is crucial, and close to us all, in Melbourne every day – homelessness. This year, 40,878 Australians will sleep

on our streets. Swags for Homeless provides free “backpack beds” as emergency relief bedding for people sleeping rough. The backpack beds are distributed via partnerships with homeless charities Australia-wide.

Each Morrisian raised sponsorship throughout Term III, and the project gathered pace and funds as we headed out to a night on the tarmac. Whether under the stars or the beaming security lights of the Witherby Tower, the boys rolled out their sleeping bags or swags and experienced a new angle on life, with the temperature slipping into single digits.

In total, Morris House raised a simply wonderful $16,036.05 (with the addition of over $500 coming at the Morris House Chapel Service in October). This amazing feat of service and fundraising will purchase over 180 backpack beds for the homeless around Melbourne.

Congratulations to all involved – it has been a wonderful experience and an overwhelmingly generous response! The Swags for the Homeless charity is delighted with the funds raised. This has truly been a fantastic contribution from all the boys.

Stephen Catton Head of Morris House

Exploring the Gold Rush Few historians could provide more insight into Australia’s past than Weston Bate, an acclaimed professor of Australian history. For students undertaking VCE Australian History, a visit from Mr Bate last term was an ideal part of their revision programme.

Having taught at the University of Melbourne, Monash University and Deakin, Mr Bate brought with him a wealth of expertise. He lectured classes on the Gold Rush in Victoria.

“The boys were impressed with his vast knowledge of the economic, political and cultural effects on the Colony of Victoria and his great passion for the subject,” says Ms Adrea Fox, Teacher of Australian History.

Mr Bate has enjoyed a long connection with Melbourne Grammar School. He taught history at the School during the seventies and co-authored a book on the School’s history, Challenging Traditions – A History of Melbourne Grammar School, which was published in 2002. He’s also the proud grandfather of Archie Bate (Year 11), a boarder in Perry House.

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VCE Australian History classes enjoyed a guest lecture from acclaimed historian Weston Bate, exploring the Gold Rush in Victoria

Musical talents on show

Aural delights from each end of the spectrum drew listeners to two special music events during Term III. Jazz Nights and the annual Orchestral Concert showcased some of the outstanding talent from Wadhurst and Senior School.

Victor Hu (Year 12) was in fine form at the Orchestral Concert, delivering a compelling performance of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2. Another highlight was the Orchestra’s rendition of Beethoven’s 3rd Symphony, (Eroica), a technically challenging piece. Congratulations to Mark Drummond, Director of the Symphony Orchestra, and all musicians on an outstanding performance. At two Jazz Nights, the MGS Big Band and the Little Big Band presented

an up-beat repertoire, along with some well received tunes courtesy of Wadhurst’s Year 7 and 8 ensembles. The stage also welcomed some familiar guest stars – James Legg (OM 2011) on drums and Elliott Lovejoy-Hall (OM 2014) on bass added some flair. Understandably, music staff were reluctant to miss any of the fun – Mr Rob Glaesemann, Mr Colin Doley and Mr Chris Somerville shared some of their expertise in the staff item.

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Outdoor Education

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Beyond the Gates Since its inception four years ago, Beyond the Gates has been one of the School’s most ambitious outdoor education programmes. Over the course of three weeks, small groups of Year 10 students make their way from the School via Mount Hotham, Benambra and the Alpine Fields to reach the summit of Mount Kosciuszko. It is no mean feat.

Along the way, students undertake challenging hiking, cycling and rafting legs to reach each destination. Many students will have some familiarity with these activities from previous purpose-designed outdoor education experiences, but in Beyond the Gates, participants are encouraged to push themselves and to further develop their skills.

Beyond the physical aspect, the programme is underpinned by a strong philosophical principle. Ideas of journey and discovery are central to the programme, and participants are encouraged to think carefully about identity and spirit. Many of the activities involve close collaboration, and students are encouraged to accept the challenges on offer.

For Henry Edwards (Year 10), Beyond the Gates provided some valuable insights into goal setting. “As I looked out over the grand valley from the peak of Mount Townsend at the path we had travelled, winding its way off into the distance, the full extent of how far we’d travelled hit me.

If I had known the scale of what we were going to do at the start of the trip, I wouldn’t have believed that I could get through it,” he says. “Kosciuszko wasn’t the goal.

Kosciuszko was the summation of the achievement of thousands of little goals, ceaselessly set and conquered.”

“My vision was to create an experience which is far more than an outdoor experience; it will be an essential aspect of the co-curricular offering at this School,” says Headmaster Roy Kelley. “I regard this programme as an integral part of our leadership, pastoral, personal development and community service programmes.”

One of the most powerful experiences in the schedule is the Solo, where individual students spend up to twentyfour hours by themselves. While their BTG Group Leaders and peers are within range, each boy has time for quiet introspection, to reflect upon the journey thus far and recover from the first portion of the adventure.

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Indigenous Programme Garma 2015

Earlier this year, eleven Melbourne Grammar School students had the privilege of attending the Garma Festival in the Northern Territory, just south of Nhulunbuy. Held over five days, the festival explores contemporary Indigenous culture, community and issues. Here, Jeremy Brown and Jika Lovett reflect on their Garma experience.

The capacity for change

The true colours of the land

Jika Lovett Year 10

Jeremy Brown Year 10

At this year’s Garma Festival, I got to experience traditional Indigenous law and customs, to explore cultural heritage in a totally different way, and to meet and acknowledge the traditional Yolgnu people and their Elders.

The Garma Festival exists as a forum for national conversation, wherein issues relevant to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians are discussed. Topics ranged from celebrating Indigenous economic sustainability, to universal problems of abusive behaviour, to the current parliamentary discussions including that of constitutional rights for Indigenous people, as well as many others.

As a part of my growth as an Indigenous man, Garma played a significant role in my life by helping me remember who I am and where I come from – to be proud of being a part of the oldest living ongoing civilisation on the planet and to recognise that I have a capacity to make change.

I am so grateful that I can bring back new knowledge that I can now show share with my people back home in Shepparton, as well as with the wider community. I met significant members of the Indigenous community who I aspire to be like in many ways. These people inspire me to want to become a leader and to progress their meaningful contributions to this nation.

I believe that Garma has made me even more passionate about sharing our Indigenous history with not only Australia but with the world, and it has inspired me to be something greater and to play an important role in my people’s future.

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Some of the highlights of the experience centred on the cultural activities that we were able to learn about, which included local language sessions and spear-making with Elders, to doing things as the Indigenous people of the land would have done for thousands of years. In particular, the Key Forum was particularly impressive, where significant issues were discussed by some of Australia’s most prominent public voices. Hearing people like Senator Nova Peris and Kumi Naidoo, CEO of Greenpeace, voice their opinions on issues that affect every single one of us were some of the most powerful moments.

It was an eye-opening experience for me, with my outlook on both current Indigenous issues and this country’s identity having changed significantly over the course of the festival.

As someone with no Indigenous heritage, it allowed me to see the true colours of the land that we live on and the culture that has developed over tens of thousands of years and continues to thrive today.

The Old Melburnians Council

Andrew Brookes

Reaching your potential Since its establishment so many years ago, the Old Melburnians has sought to promote the wellbeing of its members and the wider School community. To this end, the Constitution of The Old Melburnians proposes nine “Objects” for the Society. The first of these is to actively support the principles, activities and welfare of Melbourne Grammar School. In meeting these Objects, The Society is also committed to providing a wide range of social gatherings for Old Melburnians in order to build and maintain friendships, while also providing guidance and support to members in order to assist them maximise their potential. One way the Society does this is through its support for the development and successful operation of all affiliated sporting and special interest clubs. Further, the Society seeks to actively assist young people to enjoy the benefits of an education at the School by providing scholarships or other means.

During 2015, Old Melburnians have enjoyed a number of well-attended year-group reunions, as well as community functions in four Victorian regions. These events have proved to be an ideal opportunity for members of the wider school community to catch up with each other and to hear news about the School. In November, a most enjoyable Bluestone Lunch at the Royal South Yarra Tennis Club drew together Old Melburnians who left the School more than fifty years ago.

The speaker at the lunch was Jeremy Hearder (OM 1954), a former diplomat who gave insights into the career of one of Australia’s most successful ambassadors, Sir James Plimsoll.

Old Melburnian–affiliated clubs provide comradeship, enjoyment and support for many who have completed their education at the School. At present, Old Melburnians are involved in, amongst others, soccer, athletics, hockey, lawn bowls and a Masonic Lodge. In particular, I’m proud to congratulate the Old Melburnians Football Club on its promotion to A-Grade, following a particularly successful season. This year also saw the establishment of a new club, The Old Melburnians Dramatic Society, and the performance of its first production, The Affair. Performed in

The Old Melburnians War Memorial Hall over three nights in September, The Affair starred former Headmaster Nigel Creese and former staff member John Keogh. The Dramatic Society and the other affiliated clubs warmly welcome any Old Melburnians wishing to participate in their activities. Please get in touch via The Lodge if you would like to be involved.

A particular priority for The Old Melburnians is to offer support to current students and recent graduates who are charting a course into their future careers. Early in 2016, Year 12 students will be invited to attend a careers breakfast where they will have an opportunity to meet with Old Melburnians who have enjoyed careers in a diverse range of fields. We will also be calling for any Old Melburnians who may wish to be included in a “data bank” to offer a week’s work experience for Year 11 students and, in doing so, assist these young men to gain an insight into a potential future career.

For Old Melburnians in the early years of their careers, we offer a mentoring programme involving around a hundred mentors ready to provide advice and support to mentees. We are trialling a new programme in 2016, where we will match mentees in the twenty-five- to twenty-eight-year-old age group with experienced mentors, for regular meetings and coaching.

Should this pilot programme be successful, we hope to expand it to all Old Melburnians.

Next year, the Annual Dinner will again be held at the School, on Friday 18 March. On 28 February 2016, we will hold a family brunch on the Main Oval, and all Old Melburnians and their families are welcome to attend. There will be sporting activities for the young at heart and guided tours of the School. Later in the year, we will hold a cocktail party and an OM great debate.

I have no doubt that 2016 will be a busy year for The Old Melburnians, and we look forward to seeing many of you at an event soon. On behalf of The Old Melburnians Council, I take this opportunity to wish the School Community a safe, happy and enjoyable festive season.

Andrew Brookes President Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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The Old Melburnians Michael Gregory (OM 1991)

In his role with DFAT, Michael Gregory has worked with political leaders from around the world, including a stint in Afghanistan

For a young Michael Gregory (OM 1991), a well-thumbed collection of National Geographic magazines evoked fanciful imaginings of a life travelling the world. Now, as a member of Australia’s diplomatic corps, he is bringing those ideas to life.

In his role as Assistant Director in DFAT’s Protocol Branch, Michael’s typical day might involve hosting foreign dignitaries, negotiating with government ministers or monitoring goings-on in Australia’s Embassies and High Commissions. But Michael is quick to point out that not every day includes such high-stakes manoeuvring: “When I’m back in our head office in Canberra, life is a more routine and predictable affair – but almost always interesting!”

His work has taken him to a range of exotic locales. From 2005 to 2008, he represented Australia in Islamabad, Pakistan. From 2010 to 2012, he was posted in Kabul, Afghanistan, before returning to Islamabad for another three years in 2012. He has also had stints in Noumea, Port Moresby and Kathmandu. His previous roles have made him something of an expert in people smuggling, human trafficking and illegal migration.

During his postings overseas, he had opportunities to welcome Prime Ministers Howard, Rudd and Gillard on official visits, and he also met President Karzai of Afghanistan, former Prime Minister of Pakistan Benazir Bhutto and then-President Musharaf of Pakistan. However, some of his most treasured memories involve working with charitable organisations in developing countries. “There have also so many humbling moments, such as being a board member of St Joseph’s Hospice in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, and working with the Jocelyn Ortt-Syeed Foundation in Lahore, Pakistan, and the Islamabad Orphanage.”

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It’s not surprising to hear that school trips during Michael’s days at Melbourne Grammar School played a part in his enduring wanderlust. “The School provided me with some wonderful opportunities and experiences – I remember going to the Northern Territory, India and Antarctica on School trips,” he recalls fondly.

His time in Morris House inspired him to complete a research project on Edward Ellis Morris, a former Headmaster of Melbourne Grammar School, while undertaking a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Melbourne. “After that, I embarked on a Master’s Degree by Thesis, examining the Russo–Japanese War of 1904–05 and the impact it had on the development of a distinct Australian foreign and immigration policy.

One of the challenges of a career in international relations is its impact on work–life balance, Michael says. “There are challenges – an appropriate balance between professional and personal commitments is, at times, very difficult to achieve, but the rewards are immense when the line between the two is well drawn,” he says. “My family are based in Melbourne, but I have a lot of friends in Canberra.”

With a lifelong interest in languages, food and cultures of other countries, Michael’s career in international affairs has allowed him to develop his passions and see the world. “My diplomatic career has provided me a unique context in which to foster qualities of open mindedness, awareness of global issues, a lively quest for knowledge and values firmly based on fairness, democracy and respect for all peoples, cultures and religions,” he says.

Yu-Tze Ng (OM 1985) October’s 1985 Thirty-Year Reunion drew Old Melburnians from near and far. Amongst the long-distance travellers was Yu-Tze Ng (OM 1985) who set off from San Antonio in Texas to rejoin some of his old buddies at the Bluestone.

It’s clear Yu-Tze has been busy in the three decades since he finished at Melbourne Grammar School. After six years studying at Monash University, he undertook further training at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne and the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children in Sydney. He then subspecialised in paediatric neurology and epilepsy at the University fo Texas–Houston. He has since gone on to become a respected paediatric neurologist and a world expert in the treatment of epilepsy.

“I like kids but I realized early on that I didn’t want to treat asthma, diarrhoea or ADHD for the rest of my life, so I became a neurologist,” he explains. “I don’t save too many lives, but I daresay I change many of them for the better.

Epilepsy is a terrible disease, so helping or curing (with the help of neurosurgeons) these children is a great outcome.”

Yu-Tze’s career has taken him across the Pacific to the wilds of Texas. He is currently the division chief for paediatric neurology at the Children’s Hospital of San Antonio, Professor of Paediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine and also serves as the inaugural Chair Holder for the Gary Dudley and Charlie Amato Endowed Chair in Paediatric Neurology.

While he’s passionate about his work, Yu-Tze cites his family as his proudest achievement. His wife, Karen, is a native of the Midwest, and he is the proud father of two young girls, Gem and Belle. “Being a father is the greatest feeling in the world,” he says. “Now, when I return from even a relatively short trip, my older daughter Gem comes running to me and screams ‘Papa, Papa!’. That’s a great thing to come home to.”

When he’s not working and parenting, Yu-Tze maintains a keen interest in fitness and bodybuilding and a lifelong love affair with sports cars. He reminisces fondly about his 1978 Alfa Romeo Spider, but he has since upgraded to a Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet.

Above: In February this year, an investiture ceremony was held to welcome Yu-Tze Ng to his post as the Gary Dudley & Charlie Amato Endowed Chair in Paediatric Neurology at the Children’s Hospital of San Antonio. Below: Yu-Tze with his nephews Michael & James a few years ago

Moving from his home in Malaysia, Yu-Tze spent his first year at Melbourne Grammar School as a boarder in Perry House. “My parents had sent me over for a good education and I certainly didn’t want to let them down,” he says.

Though he describes his teenage self as a “nerdy, quiet bookworm”, he still counts his student days as a positive formative experience. “I do have very fond memories of the School. I made many great lifelong friends, and being a good swimmer helped tremendously with fitting in.” He maintains a strong network of friends from his School days – he recently rekindled his contact with Michael Neal, whom he first met when he attended the wrong Maths class for a month (and whom inspired him to join Hone House), and he was proud to include Stuart Smith and David Welsh as best man and groomsman, respectively, at his wedding.

Yu-Tze is also proud to see his family establish a multigenerational connection to Melbourne Grammar School. His oldest nephew, Michael Cheung (Year 11), will be the Captain of Hone House next year, while Michael’s younger brother, James (Year 8), was the School Captain at Grimwade House in Year 6 and is the Captain of Cain House at Wadhurst this year. “I’m just so proud of my nephews and love them a lot. They’re not only smart but totally ‘cool’ as well!” Yu-Tze says.

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Community News Weddings Congratulations The Grammar community is pleased to congratulate the following couples who recently celebrated their marriages in the Chapel of St Peter:

Saturday 10 October Stuart Watson (OM 2007) & Maria Stathopoulos

Saturday 14 November Rupert Murray-Arthur (OM 2004) & Amanda Stevens

Saturday 21 November Charles Tutton (OM 2001) & Marie Don Giovanni

Brigadier Bill Jamieson (OM 1940) was proud to be featured in a special Anzac Centenary article in The West Australian newspaper.

In the interview, Bill explained the responsibility he felt for the men under his command and the distress he felt when one of his men was killed in an ambush. He also spoke about his experience in New Guinea in 1944 as the Diggers dealt with the Japanese Resistance and the fortuitous meeting with his future wife, Norma, as he battled malaria in a Melbourne hospital. Since retiring, he served as Consul-General to Thailand until 2010 and enjoys spending time with his children and grandchildren.

World-renowned pianist Leslie Howard (OM 1965) made a brief visit to the School recently. During the visit, he treated students and staff to an impromptu performance, a master class and tuition. He also enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with his old mentor and music teacher, Donald Britton (MGS Staff 1954–1974).

Calling all lawn bowlers The Old Melburnians Bowls Club has thirty members and plays against other public schools on a Wednesday or Thursday afternoon at fortnightly intervals during the season from October to March, as well as at the Past Students Annual Tournament on a Sunday late in March.

Eligible to play for the OMs are past students, past staff, parents or grandparents of students and also past students of like schools, interstate or overseas.

We would be delighted to welcome new members and provide you with training. This is a very social sport, not too demanding physically but challenging tactically. So, come along and play bowls, make friends and have fun, at our very happy club.

We also wish to compile a database of all OMs who play bowls with Bowls Victoria affiliated clubs.

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For further details contact: Secretary Malcolm Chestney (OM 1949) (03) 9592 6965 mjchestney@gmail.com President Ron Reid (OM 1957) (03) 9816 9121 ripper17@bigpond.com

After a number of successful tours of Iraq leading troops in combat, James Greenshields (OM 1992) has turned his attention to inspiring young men to be their best.

After coming through his own struggles with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), James established the Young Warrior Project, for boys aged 11–16 in 2013. He has achieved considerable success running the programme.

Its basic premise is to take young men into the bush and to help them find direction based on their own choices, while helping them to build self-confidence and develop personal leadership skills. The programme also touches on overcoming physical challenges and dealing with the emotional reactions, by encouraging boys to stop and analyse their reactions. James draws upon his 17-year military career, during which he rose to the rank of Major, commanding Combat Team Eagle in Iraq. He was in line for promotion to Colonel when he was diagnosed with PTSD in 2008, which was a result of his patrol being hit by a roadside bomb in April 2007.

Hugh Allen (OM 2004) reported the following on his recent sporting success: “I recently represented Australia at two World Championship events. The first was the World Sprint Triathlon Championships in Chicago in September. It involved a 750-metre swim, 20-kilometre bike ride and a 5-kilometre run. I finished 12th in my age group, out of 88 competitors. I also finished 69th out of a total of 1743 competitors in the sprint distance race. Over

Obituaries The School has learnt of the following deaths in our community.

We extend our sympathy and understanding to their family and friends.

Baillieu, D (Past Parent) Butler, MCR (OM 1946) Cameron, JD (OM 1955) Chapman, SD (OM 1946)

6,500 people competed in Chicago over the four days in multiple events and distances, with over 40 countries represented.

Australia finished second on the medal tally behind the United States. The event began with the parade of nations and opening ceremony in Millennium Park. There were variance events, distances and category of races over the next four days. It was such an amazing experience to be competing in such a large multinational event alongside the world’s best.

The second event was the World Sprint Duathlon Championships in Adelaide, during October. This event comprised a 5-kilometre run, 20-kilometre bike ride and a 2.7-kilometre run. In total, there were 540 Australians in a total crowd of 1,400 competitors from over 35 countries competing in two different distances over the weekend. I finished 6th in my age group and was the fastest Australian, finishing behind four Englishmen and a Spaniard. I also finished 13th overall out of everyone that raced the sprint distance (about 520 people).

I had a great race and stuck to my race plan.

Wadhurst staff member Dr Alan Bliss made an interesting discovery on a recent trip to Daylesford where he came across a leather bound book Adams Sacred Allegories with the School crest stamped on the cover in a second-hand bookstore.

Coghill, I (Past Staff) Cooper, JLH (OM 1949) Darling, J (OM 1940) Davidson, RGD (OM 1980) Eckersley, S (OM 1958) Farfor, K (OM 1948) Gough AO, JB (OM 1946) Heron, H (Past Parent) Jacobson, NJR (OM 2015) Kiel, M (Past Parent) Krum, H (Current Parent) Llewellyn, RE (OM 1954) MacDougall, ID (OM 1962) MacKay OAM, P (Past Parent) McDonald, MJ (OM 1955) Mc Mullin, IG (OM 1944) Oliver, BH (OM 1947) Peck, GS (OM 1949) Prince, AM (Past Parent)

The book was the Third Form Class Prize awarded to Gilbert Daniel Teague (OM 1887) and was signed by the Headmaster Dr Edward Morris and was dated 1882. Gilbert Teague had a stellar academic career and studied medicine at both Melbourne and Edinburgh Universities.

He enlisted in 1915 and served for two years in the Australian Army Medical Corps before returning to Australia.

Raphael, HR (OM 1944) Ricter, RE (OM 1941) Righetti, A (OM 1936) Trumble, AC (OM 1954) Wenzel, AL (WTS Member) Willan, PC (OM 1937) Witten, RG (OM 1961)

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Community Events Mornington Peninsula Community Luncheon 1

Bronnie Sorell with Wilson Brown (OM 1959)

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Frank Macindoe (OM 1943) and his son, Rob (OM 1974)

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Andrew Brookes (OM 1974), President of The Old Melburnians, with Frank Roberts (OM 1948) and Joan Dwyer

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Rick Ladbury (OM 1963) with his wife, Pam

Western Victoria Community Function 5

Virginia Waller with the Headmaster, Roy Kelley

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Maxine Baring with JosĂŠe Pinsonneault, Director of Development

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Harrison Baring (OM 2014) with Geoff Handbury (OM 1942) and Jack Baring (OM 2012)

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1985 Thirty-Year Reunion 8

John Leonards and Andrew Davidson

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Hamish McLeod, Richard Negri and Simon Kinsella

Legal Community Function 10 Sam Dinley (OM 2000), James Brett-Young (OM 2000) and Nick Elliott (OM 2010) 11 Edwin Kennon (OM 1961) and Margaret Gillespie 12 Mary Studdert and Trudy Steedman

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The Foundation New faces on the Foundation Board With a number of exciting projects underway, the Melbourne Grammar School Foundation Board has been pleased to welcome three new members who bring with them a passion for philanthropy, a love for the School and diverse array of real-life experiences.

New members of the Foundation Board: Professor Graham Brown AM, Professor Geoff Taylor & Louise Gourlay OAM with Lloyd Thomas, President of the Foundation

Earlier this year, Professor Graham Brown AM (OM 1964) joined the Foundation Board. He has had an illustrious career in medical research, previously serving as Foundation Director of the Nossal Institute for Global Health. He is also past Head of Infection and Immunity at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, past Head of the Victorian Infectious Diseases Service at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, and James Stewart Professor of Medicine.

Louise is a keen supporter of the scholarship programme.

“It is such an important part of the School. I have always encouraged my family to help those who have not had the privileges that we have had. I am firmly behind the Indigenous Programme and very keen to stimulate the attitudinal change that along with privilege goes responsibility. I believe that the future of the School is in good hands under the wonderful direction of Mr Roy Kelley.”

With particular expertise in malaria, Graham has played an advisory role for The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Children’s Vaccine Program and the World Health Organization. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2010, for service to medicine in the field of infectious diseases.

Joining Graham and Louise on the Board is Professor Geoff Taylor, Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Particle Physics at the Terascale at the University of Melbourne.

After completing his PhD at the University of Hawaii, Geoff spent time in Chicago and Berkeley before working for the University of Oxford and the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva.

Louise Gourlay OAM has enjoyed a long connection with the School: her father, uncle, husband, three sons and five grandsons have attended, or are currently studying at, Melbourne Grammar School. “The School has done so much for my family; I felt that I owed something.”

Over the years, Louise has been an active contributor to a number of boards and charities, including the Royal Children’s Hospital, Trinity College at the University of Melbourne and the Mercy Health Foundation, as well as her family’s own organisation, The Gourlay Charitable Trust.

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Geoff is acknowledged as world leader in experimental particle physics. He is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science, a member of the Asia-Pacific High Energy Physics Panel, and Deputy Chair of the Asian Committee for Future Accelerators.

“Members of the calibre of Graham, Louise and Geoff play such an important role in allowing the Foundation to support Melbourne Grammar School,” says Lloyd Thomas, President. “Their diverse experience and enthusiasm for what the School does will play such an important role in our forthcoming philanthropic projects.”

Friends of Grammar A vibrant community It has been another busy year for parents and friends of the School involved in Friends of Grammar events. At each campus, committees have been planning many diverse activities to engage and delight.

Grimwade House The FOG Grimwade team were pleased to see the arrival last term of new choir stands they had funded. Arriving from Germany, the stands were quickly put to use in the Alfred Felton Hall.

The Committee has also been busy welcoming new Prep families for 2016. Two afternoon teas were hosted recently, giving new parents a chance to meet their children’s teachers and other parents in their year group.

Grimwade fathers have been looked after too. The annual Father’s Day Stall in Term III helped students to pick just the right gift, and the annual DOG’s (Dads of Grimwade) luncheon was held at the Stokehouse in the CBD. For Term IV, the FOG Grimwade team planned a cake stall to coincide with the Lower, Middle and Upper Primary Athletics, as well as a much-anticipated breakfast to send off the Year 6 students at their final assembly. “Finishing Year 6 is a very emotional time for some students, but it’s a pleasure to host this special event,” says Gillian Stewart, FOG Grimwade President for 2015.

Wadhurst The Father–Son Trivia Night was a highlight for FOG Wadhurst last term, with plenty of laughs, delicious woodfired pizzas and challenging trivia questions. “Thanks to all the dads who came along and got into the spirit of the event,” says Jenny Gaudry, FOG Wadhurst President for 2015. “It was a great success.”

The FOG team was also pleased to put their support behind this year’s Crop-A-Kid. Working with Mr Matt Houniet, Coordinator of Leadership and Service Learning, parent volunteers wielded the clippers and provided a delicious morning tea.

Senior School Laughter from within the Memorial Hall could be heard across the Senior School campus during this year’s Boys’ Big Breakfast. With special guest Dave Hughes (left) in tow, the event was a great chance for boys and their fathers to bond over breakfast. The FOG Senior School team supplied an enviable selection of sweet and savoury treats, with the help of a coffee van for hot beverage needs.

In September, the Springtime Lunch welcomed parents from all three campuses. Held at Zinc at Federation Square, the fashion-themed luncheon showcased the latest design and millinery from sponsor Myer in preparation for the Spring Racing Carnival. “FOG strives to build a vibrant community at the School and this whole-School event was a truly wonderful celebration,” says Rachel Gourlay, FOG Senior School President for 2015.

During the rest of the term, House Representatives have been busy organising events for House groups and year levels. “We are very fortunate to have many willing and generous families at the School,” Rachel says.

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From the Archives A continuing tradition

“The cricket you play at school will be the most enjoyable of your lives; don’t forget it”.

Legendary broadcaster Alan McGilvray, former Captain of Sydney Grammar School First XI, NSW Cricket Captain, and first President of the Old Sydneians’ Cricket Club, spoke these words when he was addressing a reception for Sydney Grammar and Melbourne Grammar cricketers.

It’s a sentiment that holds true for Old Sydneian James Cattlin, who has written a definitive book that celebrates the feats of players from both schools in this historic and oldest continuing inter-colonial (interstate) cricket match in Australia, which commenced in 1876.

Somewhat predictably, the genesis of that first match in 1876 remains contested. The captain of the Sydney Grammar School team, SW Webb, wrote an article in The Sydneian in 1926, giving his recollection of how it unfolded, with “The Old Chief”, AB (Albert) Weigall, Headmaster of Sydney Grammar School, writing to his counterpart and friend at Melbourne Grammar School, Dr Edward Morris, and suggesting a challenge to be played in Melbourne. Not so, said Hugh Ross (OM 1876), who played for MGS in the match: “We invited them to visit us,” and so the rivalry commenced.

Travel for the visiting team in the first four matches was by ocean, which is a little hard to believe these days. Neither school had their own ground, so major grounds in the two capitals were used – MCG and East Melbourne Ground in Melbourne; Albert Ground and Association Ground in Sydney.

After four successive wins by Sydney Grammar School, there was a break for, as The Melburnian stated, “in every match we have before played with the sister school of New South Wales we have been defeated, and for this reason, chiefly, a continuation of the matches was disallowed”.

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A welcome return to the series commenced in 1883, after the train link through Albury was opened, with a first win to Melbourne Grammar School. After missing the next year, “for various reasons”, 1885 saw the start of an annual match right through until 1914 when the First World War intervened.

Other breaks were made during the Depression 1929–1938 and during the Second World War. However, since then the series is unbroken, making it, overall, the oldest interstate school match in Australia that is still contested.

Given that this year marks the Centenary of Anzac, it is appropriate that the book remember the players who served their country during time of war. It details those many talented cricketers who made the supreme sacrifice in both the First and Second World Wars. Of all the schools in Australia, the highest number of old boys who went to the First World War came from both Sydney and Melbourne Grammar Schools.

The history contains many team and informal photographs gathered from many public and private collections. Many of which have not been previously published.

Cricket is the national game of Australia and both Sydney Grammar School and Melbourne Grammar School, as long established schools in their respective cities, continue to play a large part in development of the game. It is hoped that current school boys will learn of the rich history of past teams, players and their performances and look on this work as an inspiration to make their own contribution to the long history of the schools’ games and to continue the tradition.

For further information about the book, please contact James Cattlin via email jamescattlin@bigpond.com

Around the School

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Melbourne Grammar School 355 St Kilda Road Melbourne Victoria 3004 Australia T +61 3 9865 7555 mgs@mgs.vic.edu.au www.mgs.vic.edu.au CRICOS No. 00977J ABN 61 004 453 829