Grammar News no 103 Dec 2010

grammar news Print Post PP344276/00024

Number 103 – December 2010

Above: GRINNING WAYS: The Grammar girls, (left to right) Kate Oldfield, Olivia Feaver, Georgia Bickford & Jemima Lyons proudly display their gold medals following their stand out performance at the National Aerobics Championships (for full story see page 8) Front cover: FAMILY AFFAIR: Fraser (Year 9), Charles (Year 9), Mitchell (Year 10) & Lachlan (Year 11) Hawkins are four of the 16 members of the Hawkins family who have boarded at Melbourne Grammar School (for full see story page 20) Opposite: AT LAST: Athletics Captain Ned Donohoe with the APS Athletics’ Challenge Cup that Melbourne Grammar School won for the first time since 1962 (for full story see page 13)

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: (03) 9865 7555 Facsimile: (03) 9865 7577 Email: newsletter@mgs.vic.edu.au Editor: Chris Bisogni Layout & pre-production: Drew Gamble Photographs by: James Grant, Marcel Aucar, Chris Bisogni, Andy Tavares, Andy Near, Greg Caldwell, Andrew Parkes, Caroline Nattrass, Cathie Ireland, Phurba Lama, John Allin, Stewart Brook and the Australian Paralympic Committee.

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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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

In this issue 4 From the School Council 5 From the Headmaster 6 News 8 Grimwade House 10 Wadhurst 12 Senior School 14 David Temple Retirement 16 Camps Week 18 Bursary Trips 20 Boarding 22 The Old Melburnians 24 Branches & Reunions 26 Friends of Grammar 28 Community News 30 Retired Staff Association 31 Valedictory 2010

About this issue Since its founding in 1858, Melbourne Grammar School has had a proud tradition of boarding. In this issue, we profile the Hawkins family of whom 16 members have passed through the doors as boarders, dating back to the earliest days of Perry House. Today their connection with boarding is alive and well with four Hawkins boys at the School this year and, thankfully, the family link to Melbourne Grammar doesn’t look like ending soon. A number of other boarders from years past have shared their memories with Grammar News and recall their time in the boarding house.

Elsewhere in Grammar News, you will be able to read about the wonderful efforts of the School’s athletics team, which won the APS Challenge Cup for the first time since 1962.

Our congratulations to Head of PE Nat Coull and Athletics Captain Ned Donohoe on this outstanding achievement.

Grimwade House’s Animalia celebration, was a typically colourful and memorable event for the four-legged and twolegged creatures among us. While the story may be almost 120 years old, Wadhurst’s finest thespians have proved the tale of Pinocchio is timeless. You can also meet the 2011 Senior School School Captains in this issue.

I’d like to wish all readers of Grammar News and the Melbourne Grammar School community a very happy and safe Christmas and I look forward to sharing more of the School’s news and achievements with you in 2011.

Chris Bisogni Editor

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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From the School Council Farewell to the class of 2010 effect change. I think everyone left with the feeling that we should, at the very least, appreciate our good fortune and do what we can to help others who are less fortunate.

Professor Richard Larkins

On 21 October I had the honour of Chairing the MGS Valedictory Ceremony for Year 12 students and on 23 October, the pleasure of attending the Valedictory Dinner.

Both occasions were moving, a little nostalgic, but ultimately a celebration of the wonderful achievement of the departing students during their time at Melbourne Grammar. I know that the staff of the School felt enormous pride in the part that they have played in developing the talents, knowledge and values of these inspiring young men, who will play such prominent roles in the community in the years to come.

Both the Valedictory Ceremony and the Dinner featured some outstanding musical performances and the addresses by the students were brilliant – combining humour with some serious messages and appropriate recognition of the roles played by staff and parents. The Dinner was made even more of an occasion for celebration due to the triumph of the athletics team in the APS athletics for the first time since 1962 – fittingly that team had been captained by Sandy Clark, the recently retired Chairman of the School Council and the father of one of the valedictorians.

Usually the guest speaker at the Dinner is a prominent Old Melburnian – an Olympic Gold Medallist for example. This year a young man who left the School only two years ago was chosen. Luther Ellis was School Vice-Captain in 2008 and last year spent a gap year working at an orphanage in Tanzania. His moving account of this experience, with its challenges and rewards, demonstrated not only a wonderful spirit of altruism but also a mature recognition of the enormity of the problems he encountered. He alluded to the disconnect between our privileged lives in this country with those lived by so many people in the developing world and the dilemmas posed by our individual powerlessness to

Another moving event for me was to talk to a young man from Darwin, who came to board at Melbourne Grammar in Year 10, as part of the School’s Indigenous Bursary Program.

He said that when he first came to Melbourne the cultural gap was enormous and he was academically far behind.

As had been the habit of his peer group, he said that he only attended about 35 per cent of his school classes in Darwin. He couldn’t see the point of education, he only wanted to play football. After getting over an initial period of bewilderment and loneliness, he made some friends, started to study (because everyone else was doing so), and gradually caught up the deficit in his knowledge and skills and has performed admirably this year. He has already been accepted into university and recognises the importance of education in building life skills and a potential career beyond sport.

This issue of Grammar News has a particular emphasis on boarding and it is revealing that this student emphasised the importance of his immersion in the culture of the boarding house in turning around his life.

The recent strategic planning meeting by the School Council focussed on ensuring a strong future for boarding at Melbourne Grammar; improvement in our fundraising and marketing; the need for improved science and technology facilities to adjust to science and technology education for the 21st century; and a review of our Indigenous Program.

With respect to the last item, although there have been some stunning successes with the Program to date, we feel that there is a need to build a stronger relationship with one or more specific indigenous communities. We can then work in partnership with those communities to ensure that our program is producing sustainable benefit, not only for isolated individuals but for a whole community.

I would like to pay tribute to our Bursar, Mr David Temple, who retires from his position at the end of the year. He has given 31 years of outstanding service, not only in this role, but also as Secretary to the School Council. We wish him and his wife Viv a most enjoyable and rewarding life postMelbourne Grammar.

Finally, I wish to thank the whole Melbourne Grammar School community for making the School the place it is and wish you all a happy, safe and restful holiday period.

Richard Larkins Chairman

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

From the Headmaster Boarding at Melbourne Grammar School Melbourne Grammar School has a long and rich history of boarding and we are determined to remain a strong boarding school in the future. In line with that aim, I have appointed Dr Gordon Donaldson, former Headmaster of Scotch College, to strategically review the boarding operation at MGS. Dr Donaldson has an impressive record in education and in boarding schools as well. As part of this strategic review he has interviewed MGS boarding staff, Heads of School, boarding students and officials from the Boarding Parent Network. In addition, he has reviewed our boarding documentation and web material. All current boarding parents and those who have had sons in boarding over the previous two years at MGS were invited to write to him their views concerning the future of boarding at Grammar.

He has visited the boarders in situ, eaten in the dining hall and he has visited schools in NSW, looking at ‘best practice’ boarding systems and operations.

Having worked in boarding schools in three different countries, I believe that boarders add an enormous amount to any school, not the least being in terms of school spirit.

We aim to provide boarding structures and systems which blend only the best traditions from our past, with practices which reflect modern residential care. However, the real success in boarding comes from what goes on within the House, rather than relying on measures that determine the ratio of the number of showers per student. It is the intangibles of tone, ethos and reflected values which combine to create a culture of care, warmth and acceptance in boarding which is meaningful. However, boarding needs to include new pastoral care systems which try to meet parental expectations. As one example, this year we have appointed former boarding parent, Mrs Margaret Blakeney, to work as an afternoon tutor each day and her presence in the boarding scene has been extremely positive, even in a short time.

For those parents whose only experience of boarding was 20 or 30 years ago, I hope you would visit now and see that many things have changed, at Melbourne Grammar School. There is greater leave flexibility; there is greater accountability to parents; there is a greater transparency about what we do; there is greater communication with home via phones and other forms of modern technology; there is greater comfort and privacy; there is less austerity and a more friendly environment. However, to fully enjoy boarding, a student must be fully involved in the activities of School and House and understand what it means to live in a community. That is to respect other people, to respect their property, to make responsible choices, to learn appropriate

Roy Kelley

social behaviour, to show kindness, fairness, honesty and courage. In summary to be a good citizen.

The reality is that there is no perfect theory or model for the operation of boarding schools. The aim must be to develop carefully-planned ‘best practice’ policies and structures, followed up with a great deal of common sense and a commitment to student care. Accordingly, we keenly await Dr Donaldson’s review recommendations and fully intend to plan a future for boarding which is exciting and sustainable.

Boarding offers a unique opportunity for students to develop personal independence, maturity and a sense of responsibility which has lifelong benefits. Melbourne Grammar School remains committed to developing a thriving and effective boarding environment.

Finally, I wish all members of the Melbourne Grammar School community a safe, enjoyable and peaceful festive season. May both Christmas and the new year be happy family occasions.

Roy Kelley Headmaster

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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News Playing for good

My dad picks the team

MAESTRO MARVEL: Kevin Kanisius (Year 10) during his solo performance at the Music for Change concert

COACHING CAPER: Recently appointed OMFC coach David Landrigan with his son & future OMFC star Tom (Year 2)

After accepting an invitation to perform as one of the acts in the Music for Change concert, members of the Melbourne Grammar School Symphony Orchestra (MGSSO) helped raise funds for Plan International’s ‘Work and Life Skills for Youth’ program in East Timor.

Former Old Xaverians’ premiership player David Landrigan has been appointed coach of The Old Melburnians Football Club (OMFC) for season 2011.

Over 1000 people packed into the Melbourne Town Hall on 16 November for what was billed as the year’s “most unique and inspiring music festival”– and they were not let down.

More than 200 performers participated and highlights included members of the MGSSO’s stirring rendition of the last movement of Saint-Saens Piano Concerto no. 2 with Kevin Kanisius as soloist, as well as a duet from The Magic Flute

by Mozart with Vincent Chiang and Mandie Lee as soloists.

Mandie completed Year 12 at St Catherine’s this year, but has played with the MGSSO for two years.

The concert was the brainchild of MGS parent and Music for Change Producer, Karen Kim. “Music for Change is an exciting event which promotes our fantastic young Australian artists, as well as being a very worthwhile global cause. As a parent of children at Melbourne Grammar I know only too well how good its music department is in producing brilliant talent which complemented the concert perfectly,” said Karen.

Music For Change will be broadcast on the Foxtel / Austar network, D183, 8pm on New Year’s Eve.

In his 262 games with Old Xaverians, David played in six A-Grade premierships before retiring in 2004. Since then he has coached the OMFC Third XVIII in 2007; Old Caulfield Grammarians (as reserves and senior assistant coach) in 2008; and most recently as the reserves coach and one of the senior assistant coaches at Old Xaverians. His appointment comes after 2010 coach Erwin Leyden stepped down following an association with the club that started in 1994.

“To achieve the ultimate success we knew we had to work harder than ever before and bring a proven, structured approach to our coaching,” said OMFC President Stuart Rose.

Despite his bona fides as an Old Xaverian, David is no stranger to Melbourne Grammar School and the OMFC. His daughter Holly and son Tom attend Grimwade House and his brother-in-law Ned Guy is a current player at the OMFC. “My philosophy as a coach is to develop the young players already at the club and those coming up from the School.

We have very high expectations for the group and know that the planning and structures already in place will make us bigger and better in 2011,” David said.

The OMFC First XVIII finished seventh in the VAFA’s Premier Division in 2010.

Details: www.musicforchange.com.au For more information on The Old Melburnians Football Club go to www.omfc.com.au

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Awesomely wunderbar, say Olly and Florian Nearly 40 years ago William ‘Lum’ Southey spent a student exchange year at prestigious Gordonstoun in north-east Scotland. It was, says the Melbourne Grammar School parent, “one of the most glorious periods of my life”.

For Mr Southey the memories are as vivid today as they were back then. He forged new friendships and experienced facets of life so different from Australia. Enriching is the word he chooses to describe this exchange, and this, he says, is why he and his wife Astrid agreed to act as hosts to 17-year-old German exchange student Florian Huth this year.

“It was the best thing we could have done,” Mr Southey said. “I cannot overstate the fun we had. Florian is a very sophisticated and mature teenager, and for six weeks he became a part of the family. We gained enormous pleasure from the experience. He fitted in so well.”

Will Southey, 16, (Year 11 Bruce) was Florian’s mate for the term he spent at Melbourne Grammar. Both Will and Florian agree it was an experience of a lifetime and now, as firm friends, Will is spending this Christmas with the Huth family in Mainz, a pretty little city on the Rhine, 30 minutes from Frankfurt and right in the heart of prime wine-growing country.

Ian and Jill Watts, parents of Jack Watts (Year 11 Deakin) and Oskar (Year 9) were also host parents this year. They echo Mr Southey’s sentiments. Their student was Oliver (Olly) Herms, 17, also from Mainz. “It was an absolute delight to have Olly around,” Mr Watts said. “He is an exceptional boy – personable, friendly, helpful and tidy – and an engaging conversationalist.

“To see two young men from opposite sides of the world immersed in discussion over the dinner table and making great friendships is the most wonderful thing. Jack and Olly will be lifelong friends now.” (Jack also left Melbourne in early December to spend this Christmas with Florian and his family in Mainz.)

Florian, Olly and a third German Chris Ott, 18, were among 18 international students, mostly French, who were on exchange at MGS this year. The three friends are keen to return. “Maybe,” said Florian, “I take a small rest after I leave school in Germany and come back again for the summer sun.”

All the boys believe exchange visits are invaluable for personal growth – actually not just invaluable but awesome, a handy word that pops up frequently in Germlish conversations. “Your character gets stronger and you gain some very useful skills,” said Florian. “You become more independent and just feel more like an adult. It shows that

NEWSWORTHY: Channel Seven’s Peter Mitchell hosts not only the news but also German exchange students (from left) Chris Ott, Florian Huth & Olly Herms on set

you can stand on your own two feet! And learning the language by conversing with other people is an enormous benefit.”

Olly agrees. Reflecting on his first impressions of Melbourne, he said: “Even though I was pretty tired after the long journey everything was amazing – the big city, driving on the left, Vegemite…and the Watts were wonderful. I had my own room with a big bed and they did so much for me.”

The Australian media fascinated the boys, especially how the news was collated and put to air, so when the opportunity arose to visit Channel Seven and sit in the studio as Peter Mitchell read the 6pm news, they jumped at the chance.

The verdict: “Awesome!”

The boys’ command of the English language is excellent (it is a compulsory subject in German primary schools). They all went to AFL matches and even barracked vigorously in English. For Olly it was “Go the Mighty Hawks!” Florian must have sensed something and went for the Magpies instead.

John Allin

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Grimwade House True teamwork brings robotics to life For the past three years Grimwade House has hosted the Victorian leg of the First Lego League (FLL) Competition, a global program created to get children excited about science and technology. For the second year in a row, a Melbourne Grammar School team, this year comprising of George Zographos, Mark Salamy, James Barrow, Vincent Won, Jeremy Brown and William Mitchell, won the State title.

FLL is a hands-on program for those aged nine to 16 and provides challenges based on real-world scientific problems to engage children in research, problem-solving and engineering.

ROBOT POWER: Grimwade House students George Zographos, Vincent Won & Pravind Easwaran show off their Robot Game efforts, which required them to design a robot to negotiate its way through a standardised FLL field

The challenge has four parts – the first being the ‘research projects’, which calls on teams to research a real-world problem in the field of the challenge theme, then create an innovative solution and share their findings in their community. The ‘robot game’ requires teams to design, build, program and test autonomous robots to perform a series of tasks, within a time limit. In the ‘technical interview section’, teams are asked to keep a design log of their robot and answer questions relating to the robot’s functionality, design and programming, as well as any issues faced and how they overcame them. Finally, the ‘teamwork challenge’ asks teams to sit before a panel of judges while completing a challenge relating to teamwork. Importance is placed on their ability to work towards a solution rather than the actual solution.

Rod White eLearning teacher – Grimwade House

First in Australian Aerobics Championships When you think aerobics – think Grimwade House. Years 4, 5 and 6 girls (and some boys) have attended lunchtime training sessions since Term I under the watchful eye of specialist coach Kerryn Cormick, and throughout the school year have honed their skills into championship form – literally.

Grimwade House had three teams reach the Australian Aerobics Championships, held over three days in October at the State Hockey and Netball Centre. Teams from Western Australia, South Australia, Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria attended the event and the pressure for the teams to perform in front of a national level judging panel was enormous.

The Sub Junior Team: Athena Stathoulis, Isabella Ripani, Olivia Kudnig and Luciana Kunkel – all in Year 4 and their first year of competition – did a tremendous job and finished fourth in their section. The Year 5 girls – Gretel Newton‑Brown, Tayla Desmet, Eleanor McIndoe, 8

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Elsa Robertson and Isabelle Stewart, in the Junior Level section, performed a superb routine in front of a large crowd and from the reaction of many teams backstage looked to be favourites to win the section. However they too placed fourth.

The Year 6 team in the Junior section – Olivia Feaver, Georgia Bickford, Jemima Lyons and Kate Oldfield, had trained particularly hard for this competition and their routine was one of the last to be performed on the final night of the event. The girls were almost flawless, performing in unison and demonstrating a creative flair with the formations that they had added to the routine themselves. They had also worked hard on their body strength and held tight positions when having to coordinate push ups, high kicks and jumping jacks to the rapid beat of the music. The girls (and crowd) were ecstatic when the team was awarded the gold medal for first place – doing Victoria and Melbourne Grammar School proud.

C A R Project shows community care

The Year 5 team focussed on taking the curriculum in a different direction this year by introducing the CAR (Community Action Research) Project. Classes have been given a free day every Tuesday to focus their energies on this concept.

The CAR Project is based around the Community Problem Solving Enrichment Program, which has been successfully run by teachers Adrienne English and Glyn Howitt for a number of years. They have been amazing in helping to adapt the enrichment program to work in a complete class setting.

The CAR Project focusses on the idea that each class chooses an area of the local community in which they have an interest. This year an information day was held to provide the students with some knowledge into organisations which operate within the local community. Guest speakers from Glen Eira Council, Noble Park English Language School, Secondbite, Ardoch and True Colours came in to talk about the work they carry out and what we could do as a school to help.

This insightful day gave the students plenty of ideas for CAR projects and they went away and voted on areas of interest.

5B chose to work with Noble Park English Language School;

5M decided to support the TRY South Yarra Kindergarten; 5P looked at the Yarra River (above) from an environmental perspective; and 5V went to work with the Western English Language School.

All the Year 5 classes worked on a report that supported their project. Grimwade teachers Adrienne English, Glyn Howitt and Rod White helped to run specific workshops that provided students with the skills to help them structure and report on their CAR Project findings.

The CAR fair took place at the end of Term III, and showcased the projects to the Grimwade community. The students’ work was displayed, videos were presented and explanations given to parents. Students also ran stalls to raise money and awareness for the area of the community upon which they focussed.

The CAR projects have been a wonderful learning opportunity for everyone involved this year. Thank you for the enthusiasm showed by the students, parents and teachers who helped to make all the projects such a success.

Rob Bater Year 5 Coordinator

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Wadhurst Extended options

New Year 8 camp

The opening of Wadhurst’s Design Technology and Sports Centre in July and the appointment of Mr Simon Angus as Extension Studies Coordinator – for both Senior School and Wadhurst – has led to some exciting developments to the curriculum.

The Extension Studies Program has long allowed for students to be academically extended, as well as providing possibilities for boys to pursue their interests beyond the normal classroom. The Wadhurst Centre’s opening and Mr Angus’ energies and experience have led to greater opportunity for boys.

“Within days of the new Extension Studies facility opening in Semester Two, the room was being used by students keen to pursue their particular interests. It’s great to see so many boys take part in such a diverse range of activities,” Mr Angus said.

Some of those activities include a Chess club, Interschool Debating groups, a Law club, an Aviation club, a Mechanics group, an Architecture group and a Physics discussion group.

Program highlights included visits to the Magistrates’ Court and the Aviation club’s hands-on experience at Moorabbin Airport.

In 2011, the Extension Studies Program will continue to evolve across Years 7 to 11, as it focusses on catering for students who are recognised as being best suited for an Academic Extension Program. These students have been identified as having exceptional academic ability and have demonstrated suitably appropriate learning behaviours.

KEEN INTEREST: Extension Studies Coordinator Simon Angus & Richy Chen (Year 7) discuss architectural design features during an Extension Studies class

ON THEIR BIKES: At Camp Dowd (from left) Riley Peace, Sam Hooper, Jordan Stonier-Watson, Tim Harrison, James Giannarelli, Gus Robinson & Mel Shu take a rest en route to Nicholson

The Year 8 Outdoor Education Program was moved this year, from its traditional base at Woodend, to Camp Dowd on the Gippsland Lakes. Three House-based camps were held in Term III. The new Year 8 program is journey-based. Included in the itinerary was a sea kayaking trip from Camp Dowd to Boole Poole Arm, where the boys camped overnight. The following day they hiked to the northern end of Boole Poole Point to once again pitch their tents and camp overnight. A motor launch to the mainland the next morning was followed by two days of mountain biking to Nicholson.

“The boys are taken out of their comfort zone and put through some fairly demanding physical challenges, but learn a lot about themselves and their peers as they go through the week,” said Michael Milnes, Outdoor Education Program Manager.

The week at Camp Dowd revealed just how independent the boys needed to be. They were responsible for cooking their meals on the trip, setting up tents and campsites and working together on navigation and teamwork.

“The conditions were not always ideal, but this only added to their experience. Year 8 tutors, Heads of Houses and the Head of Wadhurst spent time with them on their journeys,” Michael added.

For the boys, their sense of accomplishment was evident in the comments they made after the camp. “You needed to be switched on to handle the conditions. You had to make smart decisions about things like our clothing, given the weather and activities we did,” said Tim Ward.

“It was challenging but everyone enjoyed meeting together at the end of the camp and sharing stories about their experiences. Even though it was hard, it was worthwhile,” said Fred Smithers.

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Pinocchio – a likely story!

FATHER & SON: Gepetto (James Little, Year 8), Pinocchio (Miles Glaspole, Year 8) & more than 130 other Wadhurst boys brought the classical & comical tale by Carlo Coloddi to life

Noses that grow? Fish that talk? Puppets that walk? Sounds like Pinocchio! It took 135 Wadhurst boys to relive the story that Carlo Coloddi first brought to the world in 1881.

Miles Glaspole played Pinocchio brilliantly. Of course, there could be no Pinocchio without Gepetto, who was portrayed with a commanding presence by Drama Captain James Little. Early in the play, Pinocchio’s infatuation with food, and later gold, leads him down a slippery slope of lies, making him susceptible to deception by the wily Fox (Ed Koren) and the Blind Cat (Alex Gruen). Pinocchio eventually finds himself in front of the Court of Silly-Billy Land where luckily, he is shown mercy by the Emperor (Hunter Johnstone).The Emperor’s version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow, had audiences in raptures.

Pinocchio is soon introduced to a world of fun, where he seeks consolation with the puppet Signora Rosalba (Mitchell Donovan), but finds himself needing to be careful around both strangers and his cunning sibling, Figaro (Fabrizio Ippoliti).

After Pinocchio is thrown into the sea, he is able to converse with the fun-loving Dolphin (Ed Daniells), the colourful fish and the retired Tuna politician (Campbell Michaelis), who is constantly under threat of the frying pan of the Fisherman’s wife (James Fearnside).

Credit is to be given to Patricia Langton who, amongst the cardboard, canvas and dusty old props, was as always, organising the boys and painting the colours of our imaginations.

Fiona Mackenzie Wadhurst Coordinator of Drama More pictures: www.mgs.vic.edu.au/grammarnews

STRIKE A POSE: Colour & comedy were part of the show

Just when Pinocchio thought he was all alone, the more than capable musicians, Joseph Pennington, Alexander Ekkel, Will Ross and Ted Brearly, embarked on their favourite song, Creep. After their performance, Pinocchio’s guardian angel, the Fairy with the Blue Hair, paid him a visit. Freddie Young (as the Fairy) was a crowd favourite. Frederick Smithers (as Firefly) was also a hit, as he delivered his lines whilst being suspended high above the stage.

When Pinocchio is once again lured away, this time by Candlewick played by the ever-smiling Charlie Faulkner, he is attracted by the promise of a permanent holiday in the Land of Fun with the naughty boys. But this turned out to be a ploy by the evil Wagon Driver (Monty Allen).

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Senior School Follow the leaders

Service Week At the end of Term III, more than $6500 was raised for the beyondblue foundation as part of the School’s inaugural Service Week. The student-driven week featured a number of fundraising events including raffles, windscreen cleaning, physical challenges and even a ‘Mr MGS’ pageant.

Despite the serious nature of the beyondblue foundation, the national, independent, not-for-profit organisation that works to address issues associated with depression, anxiety and related disorders in Australia, Service Week at MGS was all about having fun.

TOMORROW’S LEADERS: 2011 School Captain Nick Langford (left) & Vice-Captain Nick Churkovich

The 2011 Senior School Captain and Vice-Captain are going to follow the example set by their predecessors as they embark on their journey as the School’s student leaders in the new year.

Nick Langford (Year 11, Witherby) and Nick Churkovich (Year 11, Bromby), Captain and Vice-Captain respectively, agree they are not taking their appointments lightly.

“Being given any position of leadership or responsibility at a school like Melbourne Grammar is a very high honour.

It gives me great pride and joy to be leading the School in 2011 and I will be blessed with an enthusiastic Vice-Captain and the support of a strong and dynamic Prefect team,” said Nick Langford.

For his deputy, Nick Churkovich, the role of Vice-Captain is one he aims to learn from.

“As a leader of the school, I hope to work towards achieving the various goals our prefect body will set. I also hope to learn a lot about myself and others and how to organise myself more efficiently,” he said.

Arguably one of the week’s highlights was the ‘Challenge Keath’ series of events. For just two dollars, boys were able to pit their skills and coordination against School Vice-Captain Alex Keath in a number of entertaining challenges played out on the School ovals during lunchtimes.

Credit must go to Bruce House prefect Will Thompson, who initiated the idea of Service Week and led many of the events.

“Depression and related illness is a serious issue in Australia and we thought it would make sense to have some fun and get as many people involved in raising money for beyondblue foundation as possible,” he said.

One of the innocent victims of Service Week was School Steward Ian Riddell’s beard. Ian vowed that if the boys raised more than $3500, he’d have his beard shaved off at School assembly. True to his word, the beard was confined to history at an assembly on 8 September, the first time in more than 30 years that Ian’s face has been cleanly shaven.

It is expected that Service Week will become an annual event and the boys are looking forward to not only raising money for a worthy cause next year, but also seeing who will be brave enough to meet, or even better, Ian Riddell’s promise.

Headmaster Roy Kelley said their appointment was the result of an overwhelming endorsement from the staff and student bodies.

“They are young men with strong integrity, courage and respect and I have no doubt that they will prove to be excellent role models for all students next year. I greatly look forward to working closely with them,” Mr Kelley said.

GIVING BACK: Will Thompson (left) & 2010 School Captain Nick Fabbri ensured the public could get involved in Service Week fundraising, too 12

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

A spring to remember

YOU BEAUTY: The MGS Athletics team celebrate THAT win, the last time such a celebration will take place at Olympic Park

It took 48 attempts and a near-perfect performance for Melbourne Grammar School to finally lift the Challenge Cup as the 2010 APS Boys Combined Athletics Premiers.

The final result was breathtaking, with MGS amassing 420 points, winning 15 events and placing 30 times over the 46 event program.

It is fair to say that this result was a reflection of an Athletic team that left no stone unturned in order to erase the memories of last year’s 2.5 point loss and to end the streak of four consecutive runners-up placings. The victory was testament to the efforts of the entire Athletics squad throughout the season. This was arguably one of the best prepared Athletics teams that Melbourne Grammar has ever produced. The boys are to be congratulated on their dedication and determination to training and competitions throughout the season. This was a very well deserved victory for the entire squad.

One goal separated first and second place in the APS Water Polo competition final. Melbourne Grammar School and Wesley College play annually for The Paul Lacey Cup and more often than not the same game will determine the APS Premiers for the year. Once again, this year the game was a highlight for the sport of Water Polo, attracting a huge crowd who witnessed a remarkable game. Wesley College were the final winners 8-7, securing the APS Premiership and the Paul Lacey Cup for the first time in six years.

A special thank you to the parents, staff, students and many former students who helped etch the spring sports season into Melbourne Grammar School sporting history.

JUMPIN’ JAMES: James Vine (Year 12) on his way to victory in the 110m hurdles, one of four events he won on the day

The support of the crowd helped to lift the team to some amazing performances. The chants and cheers were perfect and the celebration as Athletics Captain Ned Donohoe lifted the Challenge Cup was something very special.

Snow Sports and Water Polo completed the spring sports season. Water Polo is an APS sport, while Snow Sports is a Victorian All Schools event.

Melbourne Grammar School’s Snow Sports team won the Victorian All Schools competition and placed second in the National All Schools event.

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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David Temple Retirement “It’s been a privilege and a great honour” Melbourne Grammar School’s longest-serving Bursar David Temple retires this year after 33 years at the School. He caught up with Grammar News Editor Chris Bisogni to reflect on his time inside the bluestone walls.

Did you ever imagine, when you first started here at Melbourne Grammar School in 1977, that you’d last 33 years in the role?

The answer is that I honestly don’t know. I was excited to get the job, I knew that, but the prospect of it being a longterm involvement certainly wouldn’t have daunted me. I was more intent on getting into the job and seeing how it all unfolded, but I have no regrets 33 years on, for staying. As a schoolboy (at Scotch College), if you’d told me I’d spend

the majority of my working life at Melbourne Grammar, I would have suggested you’d taken leave of your senses. But I always had a great respect and appreciation for Melbourne Grammar School and always enjoyed playing against them in sport. As I got to know a lot of Melbourne Grammar boys, both when I was at school and beyond that my respect, involvement and love for Melbourne Grammar grew.

A lot has changed in your time at Melbourne Grammar, can you give us a picture of the School as it was then and how it was operating and your role in that?

Without wanting to state the obvious, it’s just a vastly different scale now. It’s a far more complex organisation, even though its fundamental aim remains the same in terms of the education of the students.

The actual structure of the School has changed markedly – from the two Prep Schools at Grimwade and Wadhurst to the Senior School – to the Junior School at Grimwade and Wadhurst as the Middle School. When I started there was actually boarding at Grimwade, albeit they were closing it down in the late 1970s, which gave rise to the girls coming in the 1980s. Then, of course, there was the flirtation with coeducation in the early 90s, which didn’t come about. I also think the governance of the School has changed in both size and its engagement in the use of the School community. The turnover of the School in the late 1970s was around $2-3 million and as we close in on the end of 2010, we won’t be far off a turnover of $50 million.

The increase in the size of our fabric and our land holdings have grown not only through Flack Park and the acquisition of campsites, but also through residential properties. The building assets of the School are around $300 million, that’s excluding land values, which is of course far different to what it was in the 1970s.

What do you think are among the most significant of those developments you’ve just mentioned?

From where I sit, and this is outside of the education area, I think the change in the School structure was the sensible thing to do. I was never quite sure when I first came why we ran two junior schools and I think that was a logical move to a Grimwade, Wadhurst and Senior School. All three campuses have their own individual identity within the Melbourne Grammar banner, and I think that’s important.

Having that flow-through from Grimwade through Wadhurst and into Senior School has been very positive, I don’t have any doubt about that.

Coeducation at Grimwade House has been significant, as has the retention of boarding, which remains important to us, even though we are on a reduced scale to where we

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

were 30-odd years ago. At one stage, in the heady days, we had about 210 boarders, including 60 to 70 at Grimwade House. But I think the boarder numbers are the result of natural evolution. The options for boarding education have been enhanced significantly to where they were 30 to 40 years ago. There have been changes in parenting and parenting attitudes. I mean the days of sending your kids off to boarding school at four years of age are a thing of the past.

I think the identification and development of Flack Park has been a huge plus for the School and the prospect of us being able to acquire more land adjacent to Flack Park, should be high on our list of priorities.

There’s no doubt that the physical fabric of the School has changed and dramatically improved, but you are never going to have everything looking pristine. What’s new today is old tomorrow. I mean the Wadhurst redevelopment is now 10-12 years on, as is the boarding precinct. But then you look at things like the Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership and the underground carpark. The School is forever changing, whether it’s physical change or otherwise.

What do you count among your greatest achievements at the School?

I think the restructure of the School Council from what was 27 people meeting for an afternoon tea party three times a year, to a really very effective high-calibre body of 13 has been very important in the governance of the School.

I was pretty actively involved in the sub-committee that made the recommendation on the restructure of Grimwade and Wadhurst. At the time it was the Headmaster, Nigel Creese, Deputy Headmaster, Graham Withers and myself.

I think the acquisition of property has been important, such as some houses in Domain Street and Fosbery Avenue, the land for Camp Dowd, Flack Park as I mentioned. The Motor Works in Arnold Street was something in particular that I am very proud of working on.

I think we’ve maintained a sound financial structure within the School and achieved significant capital growth and development. To find ourselves debt free is not a bad effort.

Our fundraising efforts have been outstanding and I greatly admire those who work so hard in fundraising for capital purposes and for endowment, such as Clive Smith, Bruce Parncutt and Nigel Peck. And while this goes back to my earlier comment in relation to the size of the School, the growth in non-teaching staff, particularly finance managers and property managers, is something of which I’m proud.

These were not part of staffing, in terms of their current numbers, when I started. Property Services might have

been 10 to 12 in 1977 rather than something approaching the 30 or so we have now and finance is similar in staff complement. Adding to this we have people whom I consider to be the best in the business in these core areas.

Look, I am not directly responsible for all of these achievements but I have been across them, whether that be serious involvement to just really part of my role.

What about any regrets?

I’ve got two regrets, one tongue in cheek and one not so.

My main regret that I would admit to would be the inability to acquire the Kellow-Falkiner site which is now the Royce Hotel. I wish that I’d perhaps pushed harder or perhaps had a bit more strategic insight into its importance. I mean you look at it now and think of its potential. I did put a proposition to the School Council in the mid-80s that we should actually get a trustee company to buy that on our behalf, with the purpose of us acquiring that within a specific timeframe. It was a bad mistake for us to miss.

My other regret, is in my early time at the School, I played in a staff hockey team . I think we played in something like Z-Grade. One year we finished on top in our Grade, but we had to forfeit both our finals as half the staff were away on camp and we just didn’t have the numbers. I missed out on a premiership!

Do any characters stick out in your mind?

There are too many to recall or individualise, there were plenty of great characters that have come through the School. The late Hughey McDonald was one of my early mates and I always enjoyed his company. Hughey started the Bluestone Cup, which is still celebrated to this day.

It’s hard to pick out too many. But I think all schools need eccentric people or perhaps those who are different, particularly on the teaching staff, who can really engage the students. Personally I think there’s a science to teaching, but I think there’s also an art to it. People who can capture the imagination and attention of the students have blessed this School.

Where to from here?

Post-MGS, I will be involved as a Director of Victorian Teachers Credit Union, The National Theatre in St Kilda and my current role as President of Royal Melbourne Golf Club.

I will also be seeking additional directorships in business and possibly advisory roles.

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Camps Week The final week of Term III saw 370 students and 50 teachers head off for the biannual Camps Week, with groups heading off around Australia and beyond to engage with the great outdoors

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Staff Bursary Trips Every year Melbourne Grammar School awards Friends of Grammar and The Old Melburnians’ Bursaries, which provide the opportunity for significant professional development for members of staff. Senior School Learning Strategist Jane Gleeson and Grimwade House Deputy Head Cathie Ireland were this year’s recipients

A way with words The Gow School, located one hour south of Buffalo in the north-west corner of the state of New York, is the world’s oldest boarding school for boys in Years 7-12 with learning difficulties. The School is internationally recognised for its outstanding reputation as an educator of students with dyslexia and other language-based learning difficulties. I visited for a few days to learn about the special programs they run. In particular, I was interested in their Reconstructive Language program and use of information and assistive technologies. The Gow School currrently has 148 boys from 28 US states and 19 countries. Each class usually consists of between three and seven students.

The School was founded in 1926 by Peter Gow Jr, who had become interested in the plight of students who struggled with certain aspects of learning, especially spelling and reading. He believed that small classes and intensive drills would go a long way to helping these students compensate for their language difficulties. Shortly after the School opened, Gow met Dr Samuel T Orton, a neurologist, who is considered by many to be the ‘father of dyslexia’. Through teaching and working with Dr Orton and the students, Gow developed a course he called Reconstructive Language, a near relative of the Orton-Gillingham Method, which has now successfully remediated dyslexic students for over eight decades.

LEARNING CURVE: “My wish was to attend an internationally renowned school for students with dyslexia & attend the Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Annual Conference on Learning Differences,” says Jane Gleeson

The Reconstructive Language subject is based around daily drill and practice of spelling rules, phonetics, Greek and Latin roots and oral reading. The aim of this program is to equip students with a solid understanding and knowledge of English language construction, meanings, spelling and a confident ability to read new material. All other subjects at the Gow School are similar to those found in all secondary schools, but with an emphasis on visual learning, use of reading and writing assistive software and small class sizes.

I then attended the Harvard Graduate School of Education’s 25th Annual Learning Differences Conference. The theme of the conference was the developments in research and understanding that have led to the idea of learning differences, rather than learning difficulties. This has created a model of resilience and strength, rather than an emphasis on a deficit in students’ learning.

One emerging area of particular interest to me is the concept of ‘Executive Function’, which involves all the skills required to manage and direct our lives. These include the ability to plan, prioritise, initiate tasks, sequence, organise, remember, persevere, self-regulate, sustain attention, be flexible and manage time.

By the time students reach their middle and senior secondary years, it is assumed they already have these skills – or should have these skills. The fact is that many don’t have a well-developed sense of organisation and study techniques.

The brain continues to mature and develop connections well into adulthood, and a person’s executive function abilities are shaped by both physical changes in the brain and by life experiences at home in the classroom and in the world at large. Early attention to developing efficient skills in this area can be very helpful, and, as a rule, direct instruction, frequent reassurance and explicit feedback are strongly recommended. The role of parent and teacher are equally important in developing these skills in children of all ages.

I sincerely thank all members of Friends of Grammar and The Old Melburnians for this wonderful opportunity to see the Gow School in action and hear from leading educators in the field of individual learning needs.

Jane Gleeson Learning Strategist

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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Foreign relations “NAMASTE!” This is the greeting I received thousands of times over the period of my month-long visit to Nepal, as part of a Grammar Bursary.

I began my journey in Kathmandu with a group of people, organised by Kath Maltzahn, from Everest Trekking. Kath is a former school Principal and has been involved with Nepalese villages, trekking and education since the 1980s.

Kath has many contacts in Nepal and organised for our group to visit a number of schools in Kathmandu. The first that we visited was an amazing boarding school, called Shuvatara, which has around 1500 students. We were lucky enough to visit on the day of a special Leadership Assembly. Student leadership awards and formal leadership positions were recognised at this assembly. At one point, it really struck me that I could have been sitting at a Melbourne Grammar assembly, the only difference being that the students were sitting in a courtyard during the proceedings in 35 degree heat and that I had been introduced as the Principal of Melbourne Grammar!

The next school we visited was called Sunrise Boarding School and our visit was of great significance to one member of our group, Phurba. Phurba is a teacher at the Shree Durga School in Maga Pauwa, six hours drive out of Kathmandu. He is a former boarding student at Sunrise and his daughters are now attending the school. Phurba came to Sunrise School as a young boy, as the result of the generosity of Kath Maltzahn. Phurba’s father was a guide for the Everest Trekking Company who was killed in an unfortunate bus accident. Following his death, Kath was committed to ensuring Phurba completed his education.

Whilst in Kathmandu, our group also visited The Foundation for Sustainable Technologies, a not-for-profit, nongovernmental organisation. Its task is to create awareness for sustainability by providing low-cost, low-tech, easily adaptable, locally-built, sustainable technologies and education to improve the quality of life of the rural people. In their Kathmandu workshop we saw how recycled briquettes could be made and how solar energy can be utilised to not only cook, but to purify water among many other imaginative uses for recycled materials.

NAMASTE: Staff & volunteers from the Shree Durga School welcome Cathie Ireland (fifth from the left, back row)

were running as it had been decided that school needed to finish for the year to enable students and teachers to return to their families to help with planting of crops. Despite this, I was able to run workshops for teachers in literacy and numeracy and also had the opportunity to work with other nearby village schools and their staff.

One of the main aims of my Bursary whilst in Nepal was to explore the possibility of developing a connection between Melbourne Grammar School and an international community.

The opportunity to live and work within a rural village in Nepal provided great scope for this. As for the future, I will continue to keep in contact with the schools through Phurba and Kath Maltzhan. We are hoping to connect some of our older boys with students in the village through the Internet.

I would sincerely like to thank FOG and The Old Melburnians for supporting my adventure.

Cathie Ireland Deputy Head, Grimwade House CLASS TIME: Students from the Shree Durga School study maths

After spending a few days in Kathmandu looking at independent schools, our group embarked on a six-hour bus journey to the village of Maga Pauwa, 2200 metres above sea-level, a Prep to Year 12 school with approximately 1200 students from the district. This was to be our home for a week.

One of my aims was to work with the teachers on pedagogical approaches and to assist them with teaching English. When we arrived at the school, only a few classes

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Boarding A true family affair Clearly Wynne’s sons share the same fondness for Melbourne Grammar as they too sent their sons to board, taking the total number of Hawkins who have boarded at the School to 16.

The boarding house today is significantly different to what it was for Wynne and his sons. During school term, Charles (Year 9) the son of Jack and his cousins Fraser (Year 9), Mitchell (Year 10), and Lachlan (Year 11), all sons of Robb, reside at 140 Domain Street, South Yarra and while the location may be different, some of their experiences are comparable to their grandfather’s.

All speak positively of their current journeys at Perry House and at Melbourne Grammar. However, despite the family being so well-known within the House, they weren’t quite sure what to expect.

WAY BACK WHEN: Wynne Hawkins’ Perry House School photo, 1940

Wynne Hawkins remembers his first night boarding at Perry House, which is quite a feat in itself, when you consider that first night was some 70 years ago.

“There was the smell of fresh paint and as I was going to sleep, I was convinced a tram was going to come rattling through the building at any moment,” he says.

Back then, Perry House was situated on the south side of Wadhurst (site of the current Design Technology and Sports Centre) and Wynne was among a group who made up the first of Perry House’s boarders in 1940.

One of Wynne’s fondest memories of life as a boarder was the inherent use of nicknames that complemented the number of characters in Perry House and Melbourne Grammar School at the time.

“There was ‘Tickle Turner’, one of the masters who we referred to as ‘the punch drunk aviator’ as legend has it he’d served in France during World War One in the air force.

There was ‘Nipper Grimwade’, ‘Pompy’, ‘Greaser’, ‘Yippo’, ‘Grumpy’ and ‘Spot’,” says Wynne, who was referred to as ‘Slimbo’ by his classmates.

For Wynne the experience of boarding was such a positive one he had no hesitation in sending his three sons, Michael, Jack and Robb, to Melbourne Grammar.

“The tradition, the background and history of the School appealed to me. I came out of my time at Melbourne Grammar and thought ‘Gee this is a great School’, and I came away with great pride and admiration of the place, which I still hold today,” he says.

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“When entering the boarding house I didn’t know what to expect. My first impressions were that (from the pictures on the walls and trophies in the cabinets) it was highly competitive in terms of sport and a well organized house,” says Lachlan.

Country boys at heart (Lachlan, Mitchell and Fraser all come from Finley, while Charles’ family is not far from Finley), the idea of living on the edge of the city with parks and gardens, and not paddocks and dams surrounding them, took some getting used to.

“I had many good friends back at home and I didn’t wish to leave my life on the farm to come to Melbourne to board,” says Mitchell.

“It was probably easier having an older brother who knew Melbourne and the School and by the time I arrived at Grammar, this helped me settle in to life as a boarder. I had a meeting with [Head of Perry House] Mr [Mike] Shaw before coming to the School and I judged him as a really good bloke.”

It’s safe to say the Hawkins name is synonymous with boarding at Melbourne Grammar School and the School isn’t about to lose its link with the family name, any time soon.

“I would send my kids to this School any day of the week and especially into the boarding house. What I have experienced in my short time in the House so far I would want my kids to be a part of,” says Charles.

There’s that, plus the fact Lachlan, Mitchell and Fraser have two younger brothers still at home.

Memories . . .

Boarders from years gone by recall their days inside Melbourne Grammar School boarding houses. ▶ Murdoch Ashe (OM 1948) Each year there was a Chapel football service and a cricket service. We boarders enjoyed the football service most because as soon as coach “Bully” Taylor entered the pulpit to give the sermon, everyone’s eyes went down to their watch and timing began. Five minutes and eight seconds was the shortest sermon for years! ▶ Ian Jasper (OM 1952) The boarding house had a lovely middle-aged cook whose raucous laughter would often penetrate the quadrangle. One vividly remembers our Headmaster stating openly that, as the cook was so willing to feed 120 boarders and staff over an open fire in the ‘back yard’ when strikes left the school without power, she could do that as often as she liked. ▶ Roger Richards (OM 1958) Some of the behaviour in those times would seem quite strange to people of today. Does anyone recall ‘bouncing’? One of the ‘junior’ members of the boarding house, or perhaps one who had been ‘impolite’ to senior students would be placed on a blanket on a bed. In those days, mattresses were not innerspring but the ‘spring’ was in the wire of the bed base. Other students would hold on to the edge of the mattress and high-bounce the small offender.

Some copped it sweet while others became quite terrified.

One recipient later grew up to become a champion centre half back for Carlton.

▶ David McKean (OM 1965) Memories include, Fred Jarrett, regimentation, roll calls, sport, the Tan and the MCG (still waiting for another Melbourne flag), study, friends, Matron MacKay, the Chapel, long dining tables and food(!), dancing classes, adolescence, pocket money and the tuckshop, Prefects, detentions, exeats, city escapes, and train trips home.

▶ Greg Pattinson (OM 1976) I recall, in no particular order, the preoccupation with food, particularly the mad scramble for biscuits at the evening study break; the fierce camaraderie within the diverse group, despite the constant (and hard) ribbing that we gave each other (I recall David Stephenson and Robert Clark constantly tormenting each other in various forms); and waiting in endless lines for meals, the telephone and getting pocket money from Gordon Sargood. ▶ Marc Cuming (OM 1983) In School House we were so passionate about playing House sport that it was more important than playing for the School. Everybody played at least 20 per cent above their ability and put in 110 per cent, unless we were playing Perry House – then we put in 120 per cent. Cross-country was particularly important. We’d train for months and when I left in 1983 we were on a 26-year winning streak.

▶ Phil Turnbull (OM 1985) One my funnier recollections was the initiation the new boarders (Year 9 in those days) were put through by the older boys. Now, I know you’re thinking something nasty, however, this was a harmless challenge, which I hope has continued. On our first Sunday night, we were assembled in the TV room during Countdown. We were then ‘invited’ to dance, with the best dancers afforded a seat. The memories of these shy, moleskin-clad sons of sheep farmers giving the Mick Jagger pout and a Travolta kick, still make me smile…

Bust a move, farm boy! ▶ Mike Dwyer (OM 1996) At the time, I figured that between my family moving overseas and the fact that I was starting Year 12 as a 15-year old, transferring from Bromby House to School House was going to be one of the biggest challenges I faced in my life. Instead, I found a group of young men who were more than willing to welcome a newcomer, and I can look back on my time at School House with the greatest of fondness – even if it includes more than a few memories of being caught, up late, watching the Grand Prix on the TV in the basement!

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

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Old Melburnians Spotlight A passion without boundaries Skiing is in James Millar’s (OM 2003) blood. For as long as he can remember he has been around snow or on skis. It was at Melbourne Grammar School that he discovered his passion for cross-country skiing, having conquered alpine skiing when he was much younger. Since leaving School, James has thrown himself up and down mountains, gone cross-country skiing and managed to achieve what many of us could only dream of – representing his country. He has done all this while overcoming a disability – James was born with a congenital absence of a right forearm James can now proudly boast of having competed in two Paralympics and a World Cup. Last year, he was ranked Australia’s number one Paralympic Cross-Country Skier and number 13 in the world.

“I’ve been fortunate but also worked very hard at something I love doing and in the process I’ve managed to compete and ski on some of the world’s best mountains,” James said.

James’ talent was recognised when he was in Year 11 and he trained in Slovakia with some of the world’s best able-bodied skiers. From there it was a little bit of luck, opportunity and most of all hard work that opened many doors for him.

James drew a wild card for the 2004 World Cup in Isny, Germany, where he competed in his first disabled races and from there things started to get serious.

“Despite finishing stone cold last at my first Disabled World Cup, I realised I had the drive and determination and committed myself to improving,” he said.

Over the years James’ technique improved and much to his surprise he qualified for the 2006 Winter Paralympic Games in Turin, Italy. From 2006, it has been uphill (and crosscountry) for James, and he achieved his first world top 10 in the 2007-08 season in skate sprint. It seemed only natural that James participated at this year’s Vancouver Winter Paralympics, where he finished 18th in the 20km Skate, 22nd in the 10km Classic and 22nd in the Classic Sprint.

“Things didn’t all go exactly to plan, that’s the way racing goes, but the Games were an amazing experience. To be able to have worn those Australian colours and represent my country at not one, but two Paralympics, has been a true honour,” he said.

OLYMPIC SPIRIT: James Millar (OM 2003) competes in the 20km Skate at this year’s Vancouver Winter Paralympic Games (above); a passion he has followed since he was a young boy (right)

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Somehow in between all the training and the travelling James managed to complete his Bachelor of Landscape Architecture with Honours in 2009 from RMIT. “I will not be returning next year to elite competition but dedicating my spare time to coaching and taking a more leisurely approach to skiing,” he said.

The Old Melburnians Council

Philip Solomon

It is a great privilege to be writing my first newsletter as the elected President of the Council of The Old Melburnians.

I wish immediately to pay tribute to my immediate predecessor as President, Simon Derham, who for the last two years has devoted substantial time and enormous energy and commitment to the role.

The School community may be interested to hear of the four specific initiatives planned for 2011, which I would particularly like to identify.

The Council has this year, under the leadership of the Honorary Secretary Andrew Tulloch, established a mentoring program. The program involves career-related matters.

A body of mentors is to be identified and information in relation to them placed on the Melbourne Grammar School website. We welcome expressions of interest from any member of the Grammar community (in particular from past and / or current parents) who would be willing to act as a mentor for younger Old Melburnians in employment. Those interested can obtain details from the School website. It is intended that mentors and mentees will meet on a couple of occasions each year.

Second, Dick Cotton, a distinguished old boy will (perhaps with some barracking by me from the sidelines) be involved in the identification of the recipient of next year’s The Old Melburnians Fellowship.

The Fellowship is an exciting development pioneered by the 2007 and 2008 President of The Old Melburnians, Steve Gibbons. The aim of the Fellowship is to provide young Old Melburnians (the qualifying age limit is under 28) with support to undertake travel, study or a project intending to benefit both the recipient of the award and the wider community. Those awarded fellowships become ambassadors within the wider school community

and, importantly, role models to students by on-going participation in the School’s emerging leadership program.

Third, Fiona Turner, the first Grimwade girl to join The Old Melburnians Council, will be organising a function in March 2011 to gather together a large number of girls educated at Grimwade House, from commencement in the late 70s until 2004 (that is, all girls who attended Grimwade and who have now left School). Invitations will be forwarded to all girls in late January 2011 and we hope to see many former Grimwade girls at the function. The Old Melburnians hope to engage with a community otherwise lost to the School on a regular basis. As a Council, we consider this to be a singularly important and worthwhile objective.

Fourth, Alex Dontas, our intellectual property guru, will be liaising with other members of the School community to increase the ‘computer footprint’ of The Old Melburnians. As a part of that, there will be specific consideration to social networking integration – Facebook, Twitter and the like – and greater use of on-line services within The Old Melburnians community. One particular focus for Alex is to establish a convenient on-line booking system for events, through the School’s website. Of its nature, this targets younger members in our community, but is not intended to be for them exclusively.

In 2011, The Old Melburnians will set itself the task of usefully assisting the School and its wider community. It also seeks to serve its membership. I hope over the next 12 months of my presidency to meet many Old Melburnians. I would encourage your feedback on services which we might provide, or provide better.

Philip Solomon President

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Branches & Reunions 2005 Five Year Reunion

1990 Twenty Year Reunion

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John Richardson & 2005 School Captain Ken Velos

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John Moore (OM 1990), Jason Garde (1990) & Josh Edis

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Richard Gronow and Lucas Hopkins

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Ben Vile, James Blythe, David Clements & Daniel Kogler

New York Function 3

Host Alex Lipe (OM 1979), Tommy Lipe, Jennifer Nason, Anne & Roy Kelley

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Morgan Littlewood (OM 1980) & Ashley Myler (OM 1995)

1995 Fifteen Year Reunion 10 David Morgan & John Chen 11 1995 School Captain Ameet Bains with Arun Devidas & Andrew Ryan 12 Will Deague & Robert Tandy

The Old Melburnians AGM 5

Outgoing Treasurer Cameron Smith (OM 1993) & Nick Thorne (OM 1993)

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Head of Grimwade House Andrew Boyd with Andrew Mitchell (OM 1983) & Hartley Hansen (OM 1960)

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Newly elected President of The Old Melburnians Philip Solomon (OM 1986) with immediate Past President Simon Derham (OM 1973)

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3 4

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7 8

9 10

11 12

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Friends of Grammar Senior School Another year over and to think Christmas is just around the corner! Let me take a deep breath and reflect on the activities and events that Friends of Grammar Senior School has undertaken, and it is with great pride that I look back on the many ‘firsts’ we managed to achieve.

A Father / Son breakfast held in The Old Melburnians War Memorial Hall was one that many will remember, not least of all because of the inspirational guest speaker, James Hird. Fathers and sons were spellbound by his brilliant and personal delivery.

As many of you would know (I am sure copies are taking pride of place in your kitchens!), a sensational pictorial cook book Sharing Food was launched. It is a brilliant collaboration of recipes from the community and the result of much hard work by many. Copies of the book can be purchased through the MGS Uniform shop. Rain failed to dampen the lunch to launch Sharing Food, the deafening chatter of 200 women and a handful of brave men and the witty opening launch from Janne Apelgren, Editor of the Age Good Food Guide.

A Study Room for the Year 12 students was opened at the beginning of Term III. Such a request was approved this year through the collaboration of the Year 12 prefects, FOG, Peter Tooke and Roy Kelley.

As in any year the FOG team has worked enthusiastically, creating events and services for the community, linking parents, students and the School in a friendship that is envied by others. I would personally like to acknowledge everybody’s efforts, from committee members to staff and outsiders who have contributed greatly to a fabulous year.

I wish you peace and happiness through the holidays and all the very best for 2011.

Katie Dewhurst President, FOG Senior School COOKING UP A STORM: (left to right) Caroline Robinson, Katie Dewhurst & Kate Alstergren at the Sharing Food launch

Wadhurst Wadhurst has had a very busy second half of the year. The boys have been active with their many and varied events and functions.

The Mother’s and Father’s Day Stalls are always a highlight and treat for the boys (and Mums and Dads!). Watching the boys carefully choose a gift for their Mum or Dad is always a pleasure. The Wadhurst Breakfast is a perennial favourite, as parents and children arrive early at School for the annual breakfast of toasties, croissants and coffee and juice.

The Class Reps have been very busy organising events.

Morning coffees and lunches were the go for House groups across both year levels. Ten-pin bowling and snooker nights for the parents and boys were a great success. Both Year 7 and 8 parents enjoyed a pub night to finish off the year.

The Father / Son Trivia night is always a big hit and, as in the past, was a sell-out. There is something about the friendly competition the boys conjure up with their Dads and peers that makes this a fun night.

The Music concert was again a great success. Each year the boys seem to produce a magnificent performance. It was good to see so many delicious treats at interval, provided by the parents, helping to make the event a great night.

We were also kept busy providing support, preparing food and doing our best for a number of arts events including this year’s Wadhurst play Pinocchio, and the Art Show, at which the Wadhurst Choir performed, when parents could see their boys art on display in the Motor Works Gallery.

None of the above would be possible without the Friends of Grammar volunteers. I would like to thank this year’s Class Reps for all the hard work they did in organising events.

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In particular the FOG Committee Members for 2010, who continually gave their time and good humour to help make these events such a success – Amanda McGinn, Daria McGauran, Nicola Minchin, Libby Jones, Lisa Hall, Mary Carter, Roz Mackay, Jenny Michelmore, Anna Mezger, Emma Young, Anne Sculthorpe and Su-Lin Loh are sincerely thanked.

Other recent events included our annual Father’s Day Stall – another joyful and entertaining opportunity to watch our littlest students shop for just the right thing for Dad and, of course, the launch of the wonderful Sharing Food cookbook.

FOG Wadhurst President Caroline Robinson and her team have done an outstanding job in producing what will undoubtedly become a long-held MGS keepsake.

I must also make mention of the tremendous efforts of so many in getting the cookbook Sharing Food out and among the community. The hard work of so many has paid off with this beautiful book with delicious recipes aplenty!

I would like to thank a number of people, the first of whom are our 61 Class Representatives and Year Coordinators.

Looking back over the diary, I find that these ladies and gentlemen have organised around 150 events, including 77 coffee mornings, 33 dinners, 11 Father / Child evenings, nine lunches, seven year-level functions and three walks in the park to name just a few.

The FOG team would not work without the support of Wadhurst and Lodge staff. Special thanks to Lynda Bray, Judith Mein and of course our Head of Wadhurst, Greg Caldwell.

Caroline Robinson President, FOG Wadhurst

Grimwade House Without doubt one of the highlights of the second half of the year was the success of Grimwade Animalia – our Blessing of the Animals and Pet Show – which was held on Sunday 12 September in the front garden of Harleston. The grounds were decorated by animal garden ornaments created by Year 5 students in their Art classes – and a combination of sausage sizzles, coffee, cake stalls, animal nursery, balloon animals and other attractions – contributed to the fun.

As always, FOGG would struggle without the support of Andrew Boyd, Cathie Ireland, Melissa Lovejoy, Cindy Jackman, Wayne Starkey, Noel Ellis and the rest of the Grimwade staff. Always appreciative of our efforts, many of these people go far above and beyond the call of duty to assist us. We are very grateful, and I thank them on behalf of FOGG 2010.

Amy Jasper President, FOG Grimwade House

FURRY FRIEND: Ellie-Mae Broomhead (Year 2), Lara Nattrass (Year 2) & Harriet were all smiles & one wagging tail at Grimwade Animalia

Approximately 400 humans and more than 100 of their non-human friends gave thanks in a service conducted by Rev Bill Peacock at a hay bale altar covered in coloured flags, decorated by Grimwade students. The service was supported by members of the recorder ensemble and various choirs.

MC (and outgoing OM Council President) Simon Derham put even the smallest contestant (and the harried organisers) at ease as he wandered the grounds and the show ring during the Pet Show. The show categories were judged

by Year 4’s Coco Swansson (who won the competition to name the event), plus representatives from Woofers Animal Care Services, North Road Veterinary Clinic, Watchdog Pet Services and the Bayside Companion Dog Training School.

Animalia was organised by a specially-formed committee, comprising a combination of volunteer parents and members of the FOGG Committee. There was enormous support from the remainder of the FOGG Committee, staff, families and community organisations and I offer everyone involved my very sincere thanks.

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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:

20 August 2010 James Monahan (OM 1996) & Claire Beatty

18 September 2010 Rob Cooper & Kate Olsen (Grimwade staff)

23 October 2010 Alexander Jannink (OM 2002) & Clara Pranata David Nethercote (OM 1997) & Felicity Purcell

20 November 2010 Jonathan Cutler (OM 1998) & Lucy Henderson

21 November 2010 Andrew Lim (OM 1991) & Karen Ong

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Ian (Ike) Campbell Cameron Galbraith (OM 1933) won scholarships to both Scotch College and Melbourne Grammar and whilst the family had obvious strong Scottish roots they chose wisely.

He excelled at Melbourne Grammar School in swimming, cricket and athletics and played in the 1st XV111 for three years and was the Captain in 1933. He was a Prefect and Captain of Rusden in his final year and went on to Melbourne University where he graduated in Medicine.

He continued his football career at university and captained the University Blacks from 1936-1938. The University Blacks won the Flag in 1938. In 1936 he was Captain of the winning Victorian side to the first AllAustralian Amateur Football Carnival in Adelaide. Ian was named best and fairest and when they selected an All Australian team he was nominated and named as Captain.

He was posthumously recognised in the VAFA Hall of Fame as a Champion on 6 August 2010. His life as a footballer was shortened due to his medical career and the Second World War, where he served in the Royal Australian Navy as Surgeon Lieutenant

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Commander on the new Tribal Class Destroyer the ‘Warramunga’. The ship was involved in vital escort duties in the Pacific and the rescue of Australian Prisoners of War off Ambon in Indonesia. The experience of rescuing these PoWs and the poor condition and plight of many of these men left an indelible mark on him. After the War, Ian was one of the medical staff who attended the School and performed the regular medical checks on students in Year 10. He went into private practice in Ivanhoe.

Bruce Champion (OM 1958) retired from designing, manufacturing, installing and commissioning hydrometallurgical On-Stream Analysis systems and Process Control Instrument Engineering in 2008. Bruce is bushwalking weekly with a group of retired Hobart engineers (‘the RAMBOs’).

He regularly maintains the natural bush with the Friends of Knocklofty Bushcare Group. Bruce is the Propagation Convenor with the Australian Plants Society Tas Inc Hobart Group and coordinator of their nursery at the Kingston Primary School and takes a small Landcare class of Grade 5 students weekly.

Bruce was Convenor of the APST Wildflower Spectacular which was held in the Hobart City Hall 8-10 October 2010.

Congratulations to Simon McKeon (OM 1973) who was named 2011 Australian of the Year for Victoria.

Simon was recognised for his support of Australian charities and his efforts in encouraging the corporate world to engage with and

help the developing world.

Simon is the executive chairman of the Macquarie Group in Melbourne and chairs the CSIRO. Matthew Odlum (OM 1980) writes that he has “recently returned to the Financial Review, where I started as a cadet journalist in 1981.

Working on the paper and website: www.afr.com.

I spent the intervening 20-odd years working on publications in the News Ltd and Fairfax groups, writing, sub-editing and editing, in Sydney and Melbourne, as well as a two-year stint in the Caribbean helping a publisher on a start-up venture.” He would be delighted to hear from anyone else in the media or related industries.

Philip Solomon (OM 1986) was elected President of The Old Melburnians at the recent Annual General Meeting which was held in the Higgins Theatrette in the Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership on Tuesday 9 November 2010.

Ameet Bains (OM 1995) was elected Vice President and Andrew Tulloch (OM 1986) continues in his role as Honorary Secretary.

Cameron Smith (OM 1993) has retired as Treasurer but remains on Council with his role now being filled by new member of Council John Wilson (OM 1963).

Outgoing President Simon Derham (OM 1973) will remain on the OMs Council in 2011.

Kate Bedford (OM 1990) was one of nine new Masters of Wine announced by the London based Institute of Masters of Wine (www.mastersofwine. org). Becoming a Master of Wine is internationally recognised as the pinnacle

of professional achievement in the world of wine. The Institute has only 289 members world-wide. Kate is the third Victorian and the third Australian woman to achieve this qualification.

Kate has a freelance wine communication business and is the marketing manager for the family business, Moorooduc Estate (www.moorooducestate. com.au) on the Mornington Peninsula.

David Bedford (OM 1992) writes that he has just moved to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to take on a role as Regional Technology Manager within Halliburton.

David is looking forward to getting around the region that stretches from Russia to New Zealand.

Charles McDonald (OM 1995) is now back in Melbourne working for the National Australia Bank, having just finished a six-month contract in the Business Bank. He has secured a Marketing Manager role in the Wholesale Banking division and is looking forward to his new role.

Richard Chan (OM 1997) has the pleasure of advising us that he has recently opened his own dental practice in Box Hill. After graduating from University of Melbourne in 2002, he has worked at a number of exclusive highprofile practices as well as community service in the public sector. Richard practices all aspects of dentistry, including orthodontics and implants.

He has a special interest in facial aesthetic and reconstructive dentistry with an emphasis on its relationship to health and function. Richard welcomes

members of the Melbourne Grammar community.

Ben Suttie (OM 1985), is married to Emma (nee Wills) with two children, Hamish, 5 and Willa, 2 and is currently working for Macquarie Bank in Hong Kong. Emma writes “Our first born child, Flora, was born in Hong Kong in 2003 with a serious and rare brain disease called MillerDeiker Syndrome. After the shock of her diagnosis we set about finding out all we could about MDS so we could give her the very best care possible.

As it turns out we relied mainly on two Doctors, one in Hong Kong and the other in Melbourne. Dr Rick Leventer, who works out of the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, was an invaluable resource for us offering advice and support over the phone and in person throughout her short life (Flora died at age two and a half). We are currently raising money for the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute to benefit not only children in Melbourne but around the world. We have currently

raised over $70,000 and climbing! This makes us very happy to give back a little and hopefully help another child or family in the future. After seven years in Hong Kong we moved to Sydney and are now happily living in Hong Kong again with our children Hamish and Willa.”

Douglas Tsoi (OM 2004) was recently awarded the 2010 Multicultural Award for Excellence for Service Delivery to Multicultural Victoria by The Hon. John Brumby (OM 1970). The award recognised the efforts of Douglas in advocating and serving the international students during his time as National Executive Officer for the Australian Federation of International Students (AFIS), and for his contributions towards the Chinese community of Victoria as an Executive Member of the Chinese Community Council of Australia (Victoria Chapter).

Douglas wishes to thank his teachers at Melbourne Grammar School as they instilled in him a culture of leadership from a young age.

CHAMPIONS: The recent Rowing World Championships in New Zealand saw some outstanding results for Old Melburnians.

From left: David Webster (OM 2005) won a gold medal in the men’s coxed pairs & a silver medal in the men’s lightweight eight. David Crawshay (OM 1997) & Karsten Forsterling (OM 1997) won a bronze medal in the men’s quad scull.

Obituaries The School has learnt of the following deaths in our community. Our sympathy and understanding is extended to their family and friends.

Barling, C R (OM 1967) Barnes , K R ( Past Parent) Biddlecombe ED, G C (OM 1926) Branchflower, J H (OM 1963) Brumby, M (OM 1942) Clark, M P J (FOTS) Crow, G W S (OM 1945) Dann, R (FOTS) Edmonds, R S (OM 1960) Glasson, W S (OM 1947) Farrer, W J (OM 2004) Fanning, W R (OM 1945) Fethers, J E (OM 1946) Fourlanos, P (Past Parent) Fleetwood, E D (OM 1947) Gorman, A J (OM 1978) Hendry, R J (OM 1944) Hammond, J E (Past Parent) Harrington, L (Past Parent) Harris, G O (OM 1960) Hewson A M, A R C (OM 1952) Huckell, N (OM 1933) Keeley, JM (Past Parent) Lloyd, R (OM 1950) McCubbin, C W (OM 1947) McKaige, K G (OM 1948) Mackey, B (OM 1938) Marks, N H (OM 1944) Miller, M B (OM 1945) Mooney, B H (OM 1946) Moran, C E (OM 1960) Morgan, B A (OM 1957) Moss, J A (OM 1965) Nash, MVO JP, R B (OM 1929) Rickards, W (Past Parent) Ross, W C (OM 1934) Pannam, J (FOTS) Park, R L (OM 1959) Phillips, G (OM 1944) Short, C R (OM 1958) Short, D J (OM 1947) Shields, P F (OM 1971) Singleton, O P (OM 1942) Spry, W J (OM 1942) Stoyles OAM, W (OM 1938) Sumpter, L (FOTS) Tucker, N (FOTS) Tully, J N (OM 1944) Tymms, R D (OM 1940) Weight, R A (OM 1943) White, G R (OM 1959) White, M (OM 1953) Williams, T B (OM 1938) Wilson, P L (OM 1949)

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Retired Staff Association Where the Dinosaurs roam…

When you consider that Melbourne Grammar School’s Retired Staff Association (RSA) has 184 members (consisting of former teaching and non teaching staff) and has collectively worked at the School for over 3000 years, is it little wonder they regularly catch up?

The RSA provides up to six activities each year where members can meet, enjoy outings and catch up in a variety of relaxed and informal environments. Another function is to provide support for the welfare of its members.

Among the activities this year was a trip to the Maribyrnong River and luncheon at the Anglers Tavern, a guided tour of the RAAF Air Museum at Point Cook and a lecture by former Deputy Headmaster Graham Withers on the fathers of Microbiology, Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch.

Early in September, 35 members undertook a relaxed and pleasant train journey to Bendigo. The train journey was a highlight in itself, as it travelled through very green and picturesque countryside which included a number of historic rail viaducts around the township of Malmsbury.

REMEMBERING WHEN: Former staff members Anne Bready & Wendy Chandler catch up at one of the many RSA events this year

On arrival at Bendigo our group was transported to the Bendigo Regional Art Gallery, which is one of the finest galleries in Victoria. A relaxed luncheon enabled members to exchange recent news and compare memories from their days teaching and working at Melbourne Grammar. A tour of the many sections of the gallery followed.

In mid-November the final event of the year was the Annual Spring Picnic, held at Dromkeen, an historic house at Riddells Creek north of Melbourne. Almost 50 members of the RSA attended. Dromkeen offers a beautiful garden environment which has been enhanced by the winter and spring rains.

FORMER MENTOR: Tim Sullivan & his wife Roberta

The large rambling homestead, built in 1889, houses the unique Children’s Collection with original artworks and manuscripts from Australian children’s picture books. Many famous Australian children’s authors are represented.

Dromkeen has been a major passion for the Oldmeadow family and one of the key drivers of the collection, Kay Keck, sadly passed away recently. After a tour of the house and collection, members of our group enjoyed a picnic in the sunshine of the grounds of Dromkeen.

Tim Sullivan President, RSA

THREE PILLARS: Tony Brooker, Jenny & John Adam from the RSA 30

Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News

Valedictory 2010 Melbourne Grammar School farewelled the 2010 Year 12 boys with a range of events spread over two days on 21 October and 23 October, as part of the annual Valedictory celebrations

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Melbourne Grammar School 355 St Kilda Road Melbourne Victoria 3004 Australia T +61 3 9865 7555 F +61 3 9865 7577 mgs@mgs.vic.edu.au www.mgs.vic.edu.au ABN 61 004 453 829