grammar news Print Post PP344276/00024
Number 107 – April 2012
Above:
EASY OAR: Walter Rotter retires as Boatman of Melbourne Grammar School in May of this year, a role he has held since 1977. Walter’s expertise in this specialist role and the superb condition he kept the School’s boats in, were the envy of many other schools and boat clubs. He played an important part in the School’s rowing programme for 35 years, a period which included seven Head of the River victories
Front Cover: SWAGMEN: Tom Ryan, Andrew Udovenya & Guy Velik look ready to make their beds for the sleepover on Wadhurst Deck as part of the Year 8 24-hour programme Opposite:
CUP HOLDER: Charles Froomes with the 2012 Friends of Grammar Father/Child Cup, which is held every year among the Year 3 class level. This year’s focus was the Olympic Games and 3V took out the 2012 Cup
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: Chris Bisogni, Stewart Brook, Adam Cawood, Drew Gamble, James Grant, Lucy Hamilton, Nathan Jessup, Heath Sheridan & MGS Archives 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. 2
Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News
Contents 4 From the School Council 5 From the Headmaster 6 News 8 VCE Results 9 Student destinations 10 Grimwade House 12 Wadhurst 14 Senior School 16 Boarding 17 A week in the life… 18 Leadership 20 Outdoor Education 21 Foundation 22 The Old Melburnians 24 Community News 26 Branches & Reunions 28 Friends of Grammar 30 Archives 31 Quad Play
About this issue A warm welcome to all readers of Grammar News and a special hello to those who have received their first ever copy of the magazine. In this issue we focus on Leadership at Melbourne Grammar School and in the wider community. Defining leadership and putting leadership into practice are two challenges facing many organisations and MGS is no different. We hope this issue of Grammar News will bring us all one step closer to better understanding what has become an oft-used word in the 21st century and how MGS approaches its mantra of ‘Fostering Learning and Leadership’. It’s hard to believe we are already one term into the school year and in this issue we welcome new staff and students to the School and farewell a long-serving member of the Wadhurst staff. You can also read about the hard work the Friends of Grammar have been undertaking, they are particularly busy heralding in the new school year. Congratulations go to the 2011 VCE students and their wonderful results they achieved. The School is proud of their result and looks forward to celebrating their successes and achievements in the future. As always, I welcome your comments and feedback and hope you enjoy Grammar News, Issue 107.
Chris Bisogni Editor Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News
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From the School Council Leadership for a better future Having defined the essential elements of the law of relativity, Albert Einstein spent much of the later years of his life saying wise things. One of my favourite Einstein aphorisms beautifully condemns those who blindly follow the prevailing actions and thoughts of those around them, “He who joyfully marches to music in rank and file has already earned my contempt. He has been given a large brain by mistake, since for him the spinal cord would suffice”.
Professor Richard Larkins
There are few topics about which so much has been written as ‘leadership’. This is a result both of the multitude of meanings which can be placed on the term and the importance we place on the quality. Although we often think of leaders as those who occupy positions of authority, not all people in such positions are true leaders. If we look around and find that despite our designated authority nobody wishes to follow us, then we are not a leader. Former American President Dwight D Eisenhower described the successful application of this type of leadership in the following terms, “Leadership is the art of getting someone to do something you want done because he wants to do it”. But there is another meaning of leadership which I believe is even more important. It is the ability to stand up for what we believe to be right, regardless of the prevailing opinions and actions of our peers. This requires a strong sense of what is right and what is wrong. It also requires sufficient self-confidence and resilience to be able to act according to our principles, and not to blindly follow the actions of those around us if we do not consider them to be right. It also means having the courage to speak out against discrimination, intolerance and unfairness – and the generosity of spirit to help those in need.
As a School which prides itself on being one of the finest in Australia and the world, we have an obligation to provide opportunities for both types of leadership to be learnt. We do want some of our students to become leaders in the conventional sense, in politics, business, academia, public service and all other walks of life. However, we also want all of our students to be small ‘l’ leaders – people who have the character and resolve to live lives according to their own sense of what is right and to set an example for those around them. The current state of national and international politics is profoundly depressing, with individuals and nations apparently acting according to their own short-term selfinterest, while voters cast their votes using the same criteria. It is therefore immensely encouraging to see that so many of our young people have both the skills and commitment to change things for the better. It has been particularly heartening to see so many students at Melbourne Grammar School with the personal skills and the motivation to lead our society to a better future. Most will not go into politics, but all will have an opportunity to influence the community in which they live. The Nigel Peck Centre for Learning and Leadership is a symbol of the importance the School places on these concepts of leadership. The Leadership Programme directed by Nathan Jessup, and the new ‘Beyond the Gates’ programme of outdoor education provide rich environments to develop leadership skills. It is important that all facets of school and home life help provide an environment in which values, resolve and leadership can be learnt. This edition of Grammar News describes some of the initiatives the School is undertaking to provide opportunities for students to learn to be leaders and to develop the personal qualities that will sustain them through life. Richard Larkins Chairman
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From the Headmaster Leadership at MGS The current Melbourne Grammar School mantra is clearly stated on our website and within the majority of our printed documents as ‘Fostering Learning and Leadership’. Leadership is a frequently-used concept, but it is one which has many different meanings. Leading is the act of affecting the behaviour of a group of followers, such that their collective actions will be greater than their individual efforts. The traditional view of ‘top-down’ leadership is still prevalent in our society, but it is becoming much less common, being replaced by a more modern, consultative and inclusive style. At MGS we are developing a new form of school leadership which is based on two ideas: first, that leadership roles are available to all students; second, that leadership involves more than formal, ascribed positions. Under the influence of the MGS Director of Leadership, Nathan Jessup, we have been working on a three tier model with respect to leadership development. The first centres on leadership of self, encouraging students to examine their understanding of who they are and what they stand for, selfdiscipline, resilience and the like. The second tier encourages students to examine the concept of leadership of others, with others. This explores the notion of leadership as a social construct, involving group interactions, interpersonal skills and support – leadership teams are central to this idea. The third tier asks students to understand the notion that leadership must operate within an ethical and moral framework to ensure that leaders are devoted to the notion of achieving ‘good’ rather than ‘evil’ or, more likely, by not doing harm to a community, organisation or individual. It was the great American civil rights leader, Dr Martin Luther King, who said, “anyone can lead, because anyone can serve”. This notion of service leadership puts the concept within the reach of all students at MGS. Too often I hear parents and some of our students referring to the idea of school leadership as only operating under the formal system of school prefectship. Whilst this model currently remains within the MGS environment, other forms of leadership exist within the development model alluded to above. We passionately believe in the notion that leaders ‘grow from opportunity’ and that teenagers, in particular, develop into leadership roles at different rates. This view is clearly in opposition to such views that ‘leaders are born, not made’. Our students will move into 21st century workforce environments in which working in a team and being prepared to offer ideas, thoughts and suggestions are expected from everyone, not only the designated ‘leaders’ or managers. We are aware that our students will move into 21st century workforce environments in which working in a team and being prepared to offer ideas, thoughts and suggestions will be expected from everyone, not only the designated ‘leaders’ or managers.
Roy Kelley
The service leadership programmes we have recently developed at MGS are entitled ‘Values In Action’ (VIA) and are based around local, international, fundraising and charitable activities. The vast majority of our students are involved in at least one of these four tasks. One of our local programmes involves MGS Senior School students being part of a homework club for primary school students from Richmond and operates in partnership with the Smith Family organisation. Many of the primary students are from migrant or refugee families and have a strong desire to learn English and other skills which will help them to thrive in Australian society. The uptake of MGS boys has been terrific, with many volunteering their services in addition to their normal co-curricular commitments. There is little doubt that each one of the MGS students involved in VIA programmes is learning much about leadership, albeit in a non-traditional form. The MGS programme has been developed into a wholeschool one, in which there are staff leadership coordinators at Wadhurst and Grimwade House. The aim is to weave leadership components seamlessly into the MGS curriculum. Leadership forums and seminars have been developed at Grimwade House and a new community interaction programme has been developed for the CBD with Year 8 students at Wadhurst. Leadership topics run through the Senior School Personal Development curriculum and there is a major leadership component built into the ‘Beyond the Gates’ outdoor education activity which will involve all Year 10 students in Term IV this year. MGS fully intends to continue to examine ways in which our leadership programme can be changed and adapted to suit the world into which our students will move in the near future. Roy Kelley Headmaster
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News Community Speaker Series The 2012 Community Speaker Series commenced in spectacular fashion on Thursday 8 March with Academy Award ® winner Adam Elliot speaking on his career as a filmmaker. Adam is perhaps best known as the creator of Harvie Crumpet, the award-winning Short Animated Film that earned him world acclaim. Adam spoke about the success of Harvie Crumpet, which won him the Oscar for Best Short Film, Animated, in 2004. Adam spoke with humour and humility as he recounted the build-up to the awards and how his small company managed to ‘out animate’ the likes of Disney, Pixar and Fox Studios.
ANIMATED SPEAKER: Academy Award ® winner Adam Elliot
The Higgins Theatrette was full with students – (many of them budding filmmakers), parents, Old Melburnians and
other members of the School community, all of whom hung on every word Adam had to say.
Remaining 2012 Community Speaker Series dates: • • •
Term II – Tuesday 24 April Term III – Tuesday 4 September Term IV – Thursday 22 November
The Community Speaker Series is now in its third year, and is an initiative which aims to highlight relevant and topical issues facing our community. Inspiring speakers with a unique story to tell have been invited to present at these events, which are held four times a year. In the past, adventurers, footballers, humanitarians, counsellors and even victims of crime have told of their inspiring stories. An Academy Award ® winner was certainly a first!
Welcome to 2012 . . .
NEW STAFF – Back row (from left): Headmaster Roy Kelley, Toby McIlrath, Katrina Mueller, Ben Lovell, Zeena Frape, Bruce Ruthven, Catherine Baillie & Catherine Grech-Foster Front row: Shannon Boyer, Nicole McCracken, Stephanie Price, James Harrod, Alison Brunton, Helen Voogt-Dillon & Laura Trimble-Thompson
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. . . & welcome back
GOODBYE HOLIDAYS: Grimwade House parents arrive for the first day of the school year, armed with books, bags & big smiles
A total of 251 boys and girls became Melbourne Grammar School students in late January as the 2012 school year commenced. All three campuses welcomed new and returning students, many of whom had some familiarity with the School through a family connection. Of the new students, 59 have a parent who is an Old Melburnian, while 67 have a sibling at the School. Grimwade had a total of 112 students begin, including 74 brave Prep students who bade farewell to their parents and entered Harleston House for the first time. Wadhurst had 92 and Senior School 47 new boys start. “The start of the school year is always a satisfying time as it reflects a lot of hard work from the Admissions Department. We are pleased with the numbers and balance of families continuing their association with the School, in addition to new students and their families who are entering the Grammar community,” said Director of Admissions Julie Girdwood. The number of students at Melbourne Grammar School now stands at 1793, with 800 at Senior School, 345 at Wadhurst and 648 at Grimwade House. BIRDS OF A FEATHER: Alexander Grant enjoys the support from his big sister Ella on his first day of Prep Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News
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VCE Results The pride of MGS – VCE 2011 results Melbourne Grammar School’s 2011 students have achieved excellent results. Their achievements are a reflection of the dedication and vigour displayed by both students and staff. They offer inspiration to those facing the VCE in years ahead.
with an extraordinary, diverse group of people throughout the world and to do all this in an environment where communication from one side of the globe to the other is instant.
The VCE results were the end of 13 years of hard work and study. The students thoroughly deserve their success and our admiration.
Our hope for these students is that they recognise that the end of one journey is the beginning of the next and that the learning journey never actually ends. We hope the School has given them the resilience, the skills and the motivation to be ready for all the challenges of the future. The fine results detailed below are a product of much talent and dedication by the students, with contributions of expertise and encouragement from their teachers.
MAGNIFICENT SEVEN: The School’s TOP VCE students for 2011, Bernard Shan, Walter Myer, Nicholas Tang, Cameron Venus, Headmaster Roy Kelley, Colin Lu, Fergus Peace & Henry Li
The reality could be very different. There is no doubt that these students’ results have placed them in a superb position. They are wonderfully poised for brilliant careers and successful lives. However, the reality is we actually do not know what these careers will be or what life may be like. What we do know is that many of them will be involved with jobs that do not yet exist, that they will change careers several times during their working life, that they will be expected to learn and then relearn, that they will need to manage increasingly rapid changes, to work in collaboration
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101, or 48.3 per cent of our students were in the top 10 per cent in the State/nation with an ATAR of 90 or above.
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33 per cent of students attained an ATAR of 95 or above. This means that 69 of our students were in the top five per cent of the State/nation.
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24 students attained an ATAR of 99 or above. Therefore 11.5 per cent of our students were in the top one per cent of the State/nation.
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The Melbourne Grammar School median ATAR for 2011 was 89.8.
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Seven students achieved the maximum possible ATAR of 99.95. Special congratulations to Henry Li, Colin Lu, Walter Myer, Fergus Peace, Bernard Shan, Nicholas Tang and Cameron Venus.
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10 students achieved 12 maximum Study Scores in seven individual studies. Congratulations go to the following students: Andrew Belyea-Tate (Classical Studies and Philosophy); Sebastian Broome (English); Christopher Lam (Year 11, Physical Education); Colin Lu (Chemistry and Physics); Walter Myer (English); Fergus Peace (Philosophy); Bernard Shan (English); Oscar Skala (Year 11 Physical Education); Harrison Smith (Year 11, Physical Education) and Nicholas Tang (Specialist Mathematics).
All Year 12 students who presented for the VCE this year have been awarded the certificate. Once again, they have achieved exceptional results and we offer them our warmest congratulations. We are, as a school, very proud of the achievements of the 2011 cohort. We look forward to hearing of their many future successes. Daniel McCoppin Curriculum and VCE Coordinator & Chris Bradtke Director of Teaching and Learning
Student destinations The 2011 cohort of Year 12 students achieved remarkably good results in their VCE examinations. Just as pleasing as the results themselves was the fact that the vast majority of students carefully examined their post-school options and planned a range of applications to reflect their interests, while allowing for a range of possible VCE results. Consequently, we have many happy and wellprepared young men embarking on the next stage of their careers. As can be seen from the accompanying figures, students have commenced tertiary courses in a wide range of disciplines. The strong representation of Art/Humanities, Business and Science reflects not only the desire of MGS students to continue with studies offered at the School but also a continuing determination to maintain a broad educational programme before committing to a more vocational pathway at post-graduate level. Of course, the alternative view is reflected by other students who have chosen to undertake more specific degrees in areas such as Law, Medicine, Engineering or Film & Television. While universities remain the most popular post-school destinations, increasing numbers of students are recognising the benefits to be gained from the more vocationally-focused courses offered by TAFE institutes. This year we have 20 students commencing programmes in Victorian TAFE institutes. The most popular programmes are in the Building & Construction field, but others are undertaking courses in Theatre, Music Business and Electronics. A number of TAFE institutes offer degree programmes. Another continuing trend is the interest in overseas study. So far, 10 of the 2011 year group have received offers from universities in the United Kingdom and the United States. Several of our top ATAR performers are included in this group and we look forward to hearing of their progress. Of course, there are several ways of enjoying an overseas experience as part of one’s tertiary education. These include a ‘semester abroad’ as part of an Australian undergraduate degree, as well as the possibility of postgraduate study in an international university. We encourage our current Year 11 and 12 students to examine these possibilities, as well as direct application to overseas universities. We wish all of our 2011 school leavers the best in their future endeavours and reiterate the offer made to them on their departure: We are always happy to assist with any issues relating to future career/course choices and look forward to maintaining contact. Frank Thompson Director of Career Development & Hermione Skadiang Career Adviser
Student destinations 2012 200 students received offers (figures below total more than 200, reflecting double degrees and programmes across more than one discipline).
Areas of study Arts/Humanities 51 Agriculture
2
Art and Design
6
Biomedical/Health Sciences
5
Built Environment #
27
Business
61
Computing/Info Tech
2
Engineering
7
Film/TV/Audio/Theatre 6 Hospitality/Event Management
1
Law 10 Medicine 8 Music 3 Science Sport/Exercise Science
30 1
# Includes Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Construction Management and Property courses. Also includes offers to the University of Melbourne Environments course.
Institutions Institutes of TAFE 20 Independent tertiary colleges
2
Universities* Deakin University
28
LaTrobe University
3
Monash University
46
RMIT 14 Swinburne University of Technology University of Melbourne Victoria University
9 77 1
Interstate 4 Overseas 10 * Includes students who have received offers from both local and overseas universities. Some students will spend a semester at university in Victoria before commencing overseas in the northern autumn.
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Grimwade House Theme for success
Casual for causes When Grimwade House students participate in casual clothes day, they do so for a cause. This year the four casual clothes days will help raise money for four separate charities. Year 3 teacher Simon Cowell is also Grimwade House’s Social Service Coordinator and is the conduit between the charities and the School. “We support two local and two international charities per year. The Social Service Committee has an underlying theme, which usually relates to news that is current. Last year it was ‘natural disasters’ – so we donated to charities that helped fund victims of natural disasters – this linked with the Victorian floods, as well as international events,” he says.
VISIONARY LEADERS: Head of Grimwade House, Andrew Boyd, with Semester 1 Grimwade House Captains Andrew Feaver & Athena Stathoulis, who encourage all Grimwade House students to never ever stop trying
This year Grimwade House has adopted the theme of ‘reconciliation’ for its casual clothes fundraising drive. Three charities that will the beneficiaries of Grimwade House’s generosity are: Term I, Asylum Seeker Resource Centre; Term II, Nungalinya College; Term IV, Anglicord. The Term III charity will be nominated by the Independent Primary Schools Heads of Australia.
The theme for Grimwade House in 2012 is ‘NEST’ which stands for ‘Never Ever Stop Trying’. The theme is worked into the School’s values and incorporated into daily life at the campus. Whether students are in the classroom, playing sport, attending Chapel or on camp, they are encouraged to work through whatever challenges they may encounter, and celebrating their achievements is an acknowledgment of perseverance. As the boys and girls of Grimwade House embrace the theme, there will be much to celebrate in 2012. Grimwade House’s first semester Co-captains, Andrew Feaver and Athena Stathoulis explain the concept behind the introduction of ‘NEST’. To illustrate the point, Anthea draws on comparisons with a bird building its nest. “A bird’s nest is built with great care and precision and the bird knows that a nest is hard to build, but the bird will Never Ever Stop Trying to build a nest for its family,” Anthea explains. “Children must remember to Never Ever Stop Trying. If a child kept persevering they will improve in their subjects that they thought they were no good at. The theme is a fantastic one, because it encourages children and creates endless possibilities,” Andrew adds. Head of Art at Grimwade House, Jan Rizzo, came up with the ‘NEST’ theme after she was inspired by some art work at an exhibition she attended.
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CASUAL FRIDAY: Ben & Sophie Theodore get casual for a cause
“We ask families to donate a gold coin or pink note on the casual clothes day, and we also assign a theme to dress up in,” Simon says. “We also sometimes have guest speakers to talk to the students. The students love the casual days and love to support different and diverse charities. There are often connections in the classrooms and the students enjoy sharing these stories,” he adds. To date, Grimwade House’s biggest success is its support for CO-ID, which raises funds for a number of projects in Bangladesh. Over a three-year period, Grimwade House raised more than $18,000, which went towards building a school in a remote part of Bangladesh. That school is called Grimwade House.
COLOURFUL KIDS: The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre is the benificiary of the Term I casual clothes day at Grimwade House
The eyes have it The Year One Ocean Environment classes at Grimwade House are an eye- (and fish) opening experience for all. Classes investigate various species that live in ocean environments, with students experiencing a very up-close and personal view of the creatures they are studying.
of Science. “From their first lessons in Prep, students develop keen observational skills and with a combination of discussion, curiosity and their natural senses, Science students learn to explore their fascinating world,” she added.
Students are given a real specimen to touch and observe, with raw prawns and baby octopi helping the students learn about crustaceans and molluscs. But without doubt, the highlight of the unit is when each class dissects a fish as a group. After some initial nervous squeals, the class gets to work identifying all the different parts of an un-gutted fish. From the mouth to the gills to the dorsal fin to the tail, the discussion about the purpose of each body part of the fish reveals students’ natural curiosity about the world around them. The questions that arise often indicate a thirst for knowledge, and an understanding, through comparison with the human body. Their curiosity extends to why the eyes of a fish always stay open. A practical exercise ensues as students attempt to out-stare each other only to realise their eyes become sore and dry. They are soon able to make the link that fish don’t have such a problem, their eyes don’t get dry because they are always in water. “This lesson about eyes is emblematic, because all Grimwade House Science students know the value of their eyes,” says Amanda Masters, Grimwade House’s Head
A FISH TALE: Zara Psalidas, Nicholas Mordes & Chester Campbell get up close & personal with some fishy creatures during their Ocean Environment classes
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Wadhurst By popular demand
Fond memories add up
In the last weeks of Term I, Year 7 Art students had the privilege of working with Wadhurst’s first Artist-In-Residence for 2012, Adam Lee. Back by popular demand, this was Adam’s second time at Wadhurst after a very successful residency last year.
Gerald Moylan, Wadhurst’s Mathematics Coordinator, has seen and done a lot in his time at MGS. Gerald, who retires at the end of Term I after 20 years of loyal and dedicated service, has been many things to many students in his time at Wadhurst.
The theme for the Art room this year is ‘Portraiture’ and Adam’s work draws from a wide range of sources, including historical photography, Biblical narratives, natural history and contemporary music and literature. Last year Adam exhibited at the School’s Motor Works Gallery and was shortlisted for the Sulman Prize at the Art Gallery of NSW (which is shown alongside the Archibald), as well as the Rick Amor Prize for drawing at the Ballarat Art Gallery. Adam travels the world extensively for inspiration and research for his PhD and has just returned from a trip to India, where he assists in setting up sewing school programmes. The Year 7 boys have enjoyed the experience working with artist Adam Lee. HE’S BACK: Artist-in-Residence Adam Lee has made a welcome return to the Wadhurst‘s Art Department
FOND FAREWELL: After 20 memorable years, Gerald Moylan is turning off the calculator for the very last time
While Mathematics has always been a focus, Gerald has also been active within the boarding precinct, having been a tutor at what was Pasley House until 1996, when Junior Boarding moved to Creswick House. He was Head of Creswick House from 1998 until December 2006. In addition, he has been coach of Wadhurst’s Football teams, and an umpire, as well as an outstanding Teacher-in-Charge of Tennis. Head of Wadhurst Greg Caldwell says Gerald will be missed. “He’s been a dedicated teacher at Wadhurst, and those lucky enough to have been taught by him, or worked alongside him, all recognise the wonderful asset he has been,” Greg said.
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Gerald says he has been lucky to meet some inspiring and interesting people throughout his time at Wadhurst. “Aside from teaching Mathematics and encouraging young minds to live, I have also been fortunate to meet extraordinary parents from wonderful backgrounds… the School really has given me so much.” Gerald also fondly recalls meeting the then Prime Minister, John Howard, during the opening of Wadhurst in 2000. He also recollects meeting the then Governor of Queensland, Quentin Bryce, during one of the several Australian Mathematics Competition awards ceremonies he attended with his successful students. However, it is one incident, among many, that stands out in his mind. “When staff from Wadhurst and Senior School donated money to my son Matthew, who lost all his possessions in a house fire while saving the lives of his housemates, I realised the special sense of community that the School has,” he says. Melbourne Grammar School extends its very best wishes to Gerald for the future.
Taking it to the street Wadhurst’s Community Awareness Project, initiated in 2011, is continuing in 2012 with a number of additions. The programme is a collaboration between the Extension Studies and Leadership departments, with the Year 8 boys undertaking a number of day-long activities, immersing themselves in projects addressing issues including homelessness and marginalisation. Students will be taken out of the classroom to interact directly with members of the community in situations that are far removed from the school environment. “We want to take boys out of their comfort zone and give them an appreciation and understanding of the real issues that face many people in the community, and the best way to do this is to put them in a situation that they are not used to,” says Director of Leadership Nathan Jessup. In 2011, Year 8 students completed a day-long immersion in the Melbourne CBD, followed by a half-day ‘Digital Darkroom’ workshop. The aim of the project was to allow students to investigate the issues of homelessness and marginalisation in our society, and address any preconceived stereotypes they may have had.
PLEASE SIR: Andrew Anders, Tom Glover, Will Swansson & Andrew Garry line up for their dinner as part of the Year 8’s ‘24-hour Programme’
In 2012 this has become a ‘24-hour Programme’ which involves all students participating in evening activities, including a soup kitchen dinner, before sleeping out on the Deck at Wadhurst in swags. There will be six groups participating in the programme which will run through until September. “The attention and respect that our boys give to those who are less fortunate in life is commendable. We hope the awareness that the boys develop within this programme encourages them to participate in the many other service opportunities that they can get involved in during their time at Grammar,” says Coordinator of Extension Studies, Simon Angus.
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Senior School A row of Houses
Spreading the news
Friendships were tested as House rivalry enveloped the Senior School boys during House Activities on Tuesday 21 February. The School was awash with the 12 House colours and the noise of House chants on the South Yarra campus’s three ovals and in the School pool.
Head of Creative & Performing Arts Cat Poljski completed a three-month studio residency in New York City in December 2011, through an international art network known as PointB. Here she describes her experience in the Big Apple and how it will benefit her students at MGS:
Swimming, Futsal, Softball and European Handball were the sports of the day and the competition was friendly, though intense. “After just two years I think it’s safe to say it is now a tradition, and the boys all enjoy the afternoon and do their utmost to maintain bragging rights over their mates,” said Head of Witherby House, Rob Shields, whose boys won the Handball event and came runner up in the Junior Futsal. The afternoon of House Activities was initiated last year and with the weather once again being kind to the combatants, it was a resounding success. While the tradition of great sporting contests determines ‘there can only be one winner’, the House Activities had plenty of winners on the day.
PICK A HOUSE: House rivalry was alive & well during the annual House Activities afternoon
BACK TO SCHOOL: Cat Poljski has returned from New York with plenty of ideas & inspiration
“The mission of PointB is to enable and enhance mobile lifestyles of creative professionals by providing flexible, ready-to-use working and living spaces and developing a shared global community of worklodges for interdisciplinary and cross-cultural exchange. The purpose of my residency was to refresh and rebuild ideas about my own work. Through this I will be able to instil new projects and generate enthusiasm toward the way I teach my students, to engage with their chosen subject matter and to appreciate the way art and artists collaborate to deliver a certain message. I am captured by the city and its buildings. The collection of artworks, the warehouse studios, the museums and galleries, along with the street scene, is still bustling and the city never sleeps or tires of this. The scope of exhibitions is unbelievable. Working in another country under different conditions, with limited access to the resources that I am so attuned to when working in my studio in Melbourne, allows me to stop and think, re-assess and develop a new body of work. I am always keen to take students on field trips and experience new ways of thinking. There is so much on offer in Melbourne – this residency has inspired me to search and find new places, people and studios that I can introduce to my students.“
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Quad Play 2012 The Bacchae Some may think that being School Captain is almost like being a god, but Eddo Langley took it one step further in his portrayal of Dionysus in the Quad Play.
made of two Year 10 boys – Reilly Holt and James Little – who both learned extremely long and challenging speeches for their scenes.
This year saw a return to the [occasional] tradition of performing Greek tragedy in the Quad. The Bacchae of Euripides is a powerful evocation of divine revenge, as Dionysus punishes the town of Thebes and particularly its king, Pentheus, for not accepting him as a god.
The chorus, led by James Singleton and MGGS’s Rosie Yates, never failed to bring energy and excitement to the stage, as their chaotic scenes, often performed with intense lighting effects, demonstrated the terrifying nature of Dionysiac worship.
Eddo Langley’s powerful, sometimes hypnotic portrayal of the charismatic god was assisted by extreme makeup, and Dionysus’s conflicts with the raging, yet vulnerable, Pentheus (played by Tom Rogerson), were laden with sometimes horrific double meanings. The voices of reason in the play came from two old men: Cadmus (played by Joshua Tinner) and the prophet Teiresias (played by Lloyd Miller), both of whom sense the disaster that is to come. Camille Cargill from Melbourne Girls Grammar School (MGGS), was chilling as Pentheus’ mother, Agave, who gradually realises that she has killed her own son. Special mention should be
All cast members worked hard, starting in October and are to be congratulated on their polished and consistent performances. Backstage was no less professional, as the play ran seamlessly and looked fantastic. This was made possible by supporting members of staff (notably Sally Scott who made most of the costumes), students working difficult hours backstage, committed parent helpers and a valued team of talented Old Melburnians, without whom the Quad Play would not have been possible. Sharon Mulready Director, Quad Play
TRIUMPHANT TRAGEDY: The Bacchae’s chorus scenes were complemented by intense lighting effects – more photographs page 31
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Boarding All aboard the Boarding Houses A recent review on Boarding at Melbourne Grammar School, undertaken by Gordon Donaldson the former Headmaster of Scotch College, has made 11 recommendations aimed at further improving and celebrating life in the Boarding Houses. The recommendations have been signed off by School Council, with a promise to ensure boarding – which dates back to the very beginnings of the School – remains an integral part of life at MGS. Some of the recommendations have already been implemented, such as the improvement in promoting boarding in many of the School’s communication and marketing tools. The School has updated its website in recent months and boarding now has its own menu item. In addition, a direct mail and strategic advertising campaigns, have been undertaken to attract boarders to MGS from targeted rural areas in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.
FAMILY FEAST: A barbecue lunch was among the many activities families enjoyed on the Boarders Family Day
The review was initiated by the Headmaster, Roy Kelley, himself a former Head of a boarding house at Hale School. “I have always been a supporter of boarding and firmly believe we can always aim to improve what we offer to boarders and their families. The Donaldson Review has provided definitive insights into this process” Mr Kelley said. The review also recommended a Director of Boarding be appointed. The role will oversee the policies, practices and be the ‘Voice of Boarding’ for the School’s three Boarding Houses. Mr Kelley says he hopes such a position will be filled by the end of the year. “Such a role would encompass improved pastoral care of students and staff, arrangements for overseas students and create a waiting list for boarding, as well as marketing and PR responsibilities,” he added. There are currently 118 boarding places in Melbourne Grammar School’s three Boarding Houses, Creswick (Year 7), School and Perry (Years 9 - 12). Greg Lochhead has taken over the role as Head of School House from Nick Bates this year, while Michael Shaw and Suzann Heinze continue to oversee Perry and Creswick Houses, respectively. All Heads of House are supported by Boarding Assistants.
HEADS OF THE HOUSES: Mike Shaw (Perry House), Suzann Heinze (Creswick) & Greg Lochhead (School House) oversee Melbourne Grammar School’s Boarding Houses
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Meanwhile, a Boarders Family Day was held at the School on Sunday 19 February. Families and students attended a Eucharist in the School’s Chapel and a barbecue lunch in the Luxton Dining Hall. A Boarders Parents Network meeting was also held, where parents heard from the Headmaster and Heads of House on plans for the coming year.
A week in the life‌ The final week of Summer & the early days of Autumn saw inclement weather for Melbourne & a typically busy week for the three campuses. Here is a pictorial snapshot of a week in the life of the School
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Leadership Learning through interaction Nathan Jessup Director of Leadership writes about the implementation and impact of the leadership programmes at the School: Whether it be coaching a sporting team, directing a music or theatre production or going away on a School camp, our staff spend a great deal of time interacting with students beyond the classroom. It can be through these experiences that we learn more from and about our students than in any other area of school life. We often discover what their passions and interests are, a little about their families and the challenges that the student may be facing. In these more informal settings staff can also discover what students think about various things that are happening at School such as classes, events and decisions which might be affecting them. Last year I drove a bus each week to and from Richmond to one of our service programmes, with about 12 MGS students. In this hour of travel I learnt more about these students and their opinions than I could have hoped to in a classroom. Removed from some of the constraints of teaching a class, we were able to discuss a wide range of topics. The students also became my sounding board for
with people. As an example, a few weeks ago I sat in on a lunchtime discussion with a group of students who participated in the ‘Beyond the Gates’ pilot at the end of last year. In just under an hour I learnt more about student leadership development than I could have from reading a journal article. Personal stories and perceptions, particularly expressed through the inquisitive mind of a young person, can be far more insightful than academic definitions, theories or models. When it came to writing this article for Grammar News it seemed most appropriate to use the voice of some of our students. The Coordinators of Leadership – Paul Jubber (Wadhurst), Caroll-Ann Flanigan (Grimwade House) and I – have hosted a series of student forums. Rather than inviting students who held positions of leadership such as prefectship, a diversity of students who were actively involved in the life of the School were approached to offer their perspectives. Following is an overview of some of the common themes which emerged from these relatively informal discussions.
The importance of relationships Perhaps the most common underlying theme is that relationships are central to effective leadership. Students identified that the ability to form and nurture positive relationships with others is essential. This goes beyond one’s immediate friendship group to include students who are both younger and older. It should also include the teachers at MGS and other people in the community. The concept of ‘learning with and through others’ was an interesting insight that was discussed in detail. Fundamental to this was the development and ongoing practice of respect and trust.
NEVER TOO YOUNG: The notion of leadership is not lost on anyone at MGS, here Grimwade House’s Leadership Coordinator, Caroll-Ann Flanigan, discusses the concept with Grimwade House students
various ideas I had or initiatives I was planning. “How do you think this would go?” I would often ask over my shoulder. In the relatively short time that I have been at MGS, much of what I have discovered about leadership has come from incidental conversations with staff, parents and particularly students. Reading research papers and attending lectures remains informative, but I have found that most of my insights and ideas have been influenced by interactions 18
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Students made particular reference to the House system when talking about relationship development. The vertical nature of the Houses allows people to interact with others from different year levels. The fact that Houses are relatively small also enables students to really get to know their peers and the staff, in what amounts to a distinctive community environment. Because each House has its own identity and culture, students also understand and align their own values to those espoused within the House.
Getting involved There was common agreement that leadership should not only be associated with a position or title. While this continues to stimulate some debate in the MGS community, the students at the forums indicated that the message was understood by most of their friends. Many of those who participated in the forum had been at MGS for a number of years. While some admitted that they didn’t at first understand or believe what ‘little l’ leadership represented,
WALKING & TALKING: Wadhurst’s Leadership Coordinator, Paul Jubber, & a group of Wadhurst students work together to define & act on what leadership is about
as they moved through the School it resonated more strongly, even if the desire to be elected to a position didn’t completely subside. The overwhelming opinion was that learning, understanding and self-development were best achieved by simply getting involved. The students identified a range of opportunities that they were given, within and outside of the curriculum. Specifically discussed were camps, co-curricular and outof-the-classroom activities like excursions, as ideal ways of learning about leadership. While the somewhat clichéd term ‘stepping up’ was mentioned, another notion identified was that of ‘stepping in’. Students said that when they got involved in activities which allowed them to be independent, they felt particularly empowered and engaged. This is a very real challenge for schools as they face increased external scrutiny and compliance. However, it can also be viewed as a pedagogical opportunity for teachers to continually adapt the way we educate and interact with our students.
Learning from mistakes Another buzz term which is commonly used in schools is that of ‘stepping out of one’s comfort zone’. The students who
contributed to this discussion believed that it was important in preparing them for the challenges that they thought that they would face beyond School. Melbourne Grammar School values excellence and celebrates it in various forms from week to week. Students felt that we should also talk about failure, because the lessons learnt were just as important. Figuratively ‘throwing students into uncertain situations’ and confronting them with problems that they are perhaps not fully equipped to solve, was thought to be a necessary discomfort. Again these students were able to describe various experiences that they had already had at MGS which placed them out of their depth, but where they had learnt much about themselves and others.
A final thought The multitude of different meanings attributed to leadership often results in confusion. This, coupled with the various public examples of leadership failure that we are presented with on a daily basis, can lead to a degree of cynicism. However, it is the many conversations and observations of students that provide support for the value that MGS places on leadership development. As one Wadhurst student stated, “In later life we will use leadership in some way, just like Maths, therefore it is important that we have a good understanding of what it is about”.
TIRELESS WORK: Director of Leadership Nathan Jessup spends hours every week developing leadership opportunities for Senior School boys Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News
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Outdoor Education Beyond the Gates 2012
PIONEERS: The pilot group (minus one) returned to the School buoyed by their experience on ‘Beyond the Gates’
In just a few months, the School’s Year 10 boys will be the first official group to undertake Melbourne Grammar School’s ‘Beyond the Gates’ programme. A total of 202 boys, broken up into 17 groups, will set off from St Kilda Road and make their way to Australia’s highest peak, Mt Kosciuszko. The 17 groups have been carefully chosen, ensuring the right balance and a healthy diversity of boys will make up each group. The 2012 Year 10 boys will be fully briefed and prepared before they depart. The 12 volunteers who undertook the programme in Term IV last year will be acting as mentors for the 2012 groups, as they build up to their departure dates in Term IV. Feedback from the boys who participated in the pilot programme has been very positive and some have offered their thoughts and reflection on ‘Beyond the Gates’ for Grammar News: There were many highlights of the trip, but the ones that stood out for me were the white-water rafting in some of the larger rapids, and the solo day that allowed me to reflect and catch up on some sleep. It tested relationships within the group and allowed us to overcome those in our own way, an important skill very much needed in the world. My advice to the boys who will be going on it this year is simple: organise your gear early and go into it in a positive frame of mind. Andrew Hurley One particular experience that stood out was crossing a snow-covered slope on the summit day. Instead of taking
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the easy, established path to the summit, we decided to navigate our own path all the way to the top of Mt Kosciusko. Around three kilometres away from reaching the summit, Kosciuszko our path was obstructed by a steep slope covered with snow and ice left over from a cold winter. Instead of making our way around the obstacle, we all decided walk right through it. Adrian Karatzas ‘Beyond the Gates’ was a formative experience. I became friends with people I had very few classes with, and we helped each other complete challenges that we could not do alone. Whether it was freezing river crossings, cooking dinner in rough conditions or navigating to our next rest spot, we had to work as a unit. Christopher Graves I remember thinking to myself the morning of summit day: “It is finally here!”. I had set the alarm on my watch for 3:30 am so I could wake everyone up. Nineteen days had gone and it was all about to climax. We all got up, packed our packs for the day trip up the mountain. We only took the essentials. We had four peaks to climb – the three Rams Heads and Mt Kosciusko. After 20 minutes in, frost still on the ground, frozen puddles of ice and light fog surrounding us, my head torch broke. That didn’t matter because the sun was peering through the clouds in a pallet of red, pink and gold. It burnt off the fog and illuminated the valley below, with almost angelic light. We all stopped on the trail to admire it. I remember thinking: “I’m really glad I decided to do this.” Sebastian Ellis
Foundation Scholarships & bursaries
Strength through diversity Such focus is put on scholarship and bursary programmes nowadays, as an apparent justification for the existence of independent education, that it actually belittles something far more important. One of the real strengths of Melbourne Grammar School is the diversity of the student body, which is made possible, in large part, by this very programme. Diversity is evident everywhere at MGS, whether it be diversity of subject, discussion, experience, thought or background. The strength of the School’s diversity is no more apparent than the 300-plus students who are currently able to study at MGS, thanks to either a scholarship or bursary that they have either been awarded or given. In today’s increasingly challenging economic environment, this topic is becoming widely discussed within our community. Some families of our alumni wonder whether the cost of financing third, fourth or fifth generations is possible, country families seeking boarding homes now contemplate long travel and time costs, and local families evaluate cost/benefit arguments versus public schools. We appreciate and understand all these very difficult issues. There are processes in place that enable the School to offer a variety of scholarships based on a number of personal circumstances, some of which address academic or musical ability. Scholarships are there to lighten the load, but also to reward excellence. Many of these scholarships have been endowed by individuals or families who recognise the strength and depth of diversity at the School. They want to ensure this continues well into the future and this is the major driving
force for those potential donors seeking to truly make a difference. Diversity can be a point of difference. At MGS we work hard to better prepare our students – not just academically, but also emotionally and culturally – to face the challenges of the changing world we live in. Globalisation has opened up tremendous opportunity, but also presented real challenges to cultural differences. By enabling diversity of and within our student body, we are facilitating real-life experiences for them and are better preparing our children to strive towards understanding and empathy. Our Indigenous boys give us insight into historical injustice, but also current challenges they still face. Our Papua New Guinea boys show us unbelievable strength of character and positivity. Our overseas students impart aspects of their culture on our community. Our country boys share the tangible impact of climate change in their communities, while our scholars give tremendous inspiration through their dedication and perseverance. These students, all mixed together through the friendships and understanding they kindle at School, are our point of difference and long may this be what MGS stands for. To learn more about the huge difference you can make in a young student’s life by giving to our Scholarship or Bursary fund (including our Indigenous and Papua New Guinea funds), please call the Director of Development Rachael Henshilwood on 03 9865 7683 or email her at rjhenshilwood@mgs.vic.edu.au.
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The Old Melburnians Council
Ameet Bains
As the new President of The Old Melburnians, it is my great privilege to welcome members of our community to a new year. It is an honour to lead The Old Melburnians and, on behalf of the Council, I take this opportunity to wish everyone well for the remainder of the year. It would be remiss of me not to pay tribute to my predecessor, Phil Solomon, for his enormous contribution – not only as President last year, but also during his time on Council. With ‘leadership’ as the focus in this issue of Grammar News, it’s an opportune time for The Old Melburnians to reflect on the role we can and do play. In addition to its firstrate academic, cultural and sporting curriculum, Melbourne Grammar School has been exceptionally proactive in imparting leadership teachings to its student body and in fostering leadership and a sense of community more broadly. It is with this expansive approach to education that our students graduate into the community at large. The Old Melburnians exists to serve our community and to support Melbourne Grammar School and its extended network. Accordingly, The Old Melburnians are duty bound to help continue the personal growth of our members and provide our own leadership and initiatives. The ongoing development of programmes like the OMs Mentoring Programme and OMs Fellowship are clear examples of where The Old Melburnians can help provide encouragement and assistance to our community. In many
respects, The Old Melburnians network is our greatest asset, so we need to become more effective in leveraging its strength and diversity. Part of demonstrating leadership in this way requires an inclusive and transparent approach. In this regard, The Old Melburnians continue to promote our key activities and areas of focus, with an increased online presence. This has been primarily achieved through our website: http://online.oms.org.au, but also via our Facebook and LinkedIn pages. We encourage all OMs to visit our website and join our social networking pages. In particular, I recommend visiting our website to read the updated 2012 Strategic Plan, which sets out the short-term priorities of The Old Melburnians. It is worth sharing two leadership-based aims we are seeking to achieve in 2012, which arose from the Strategic Plan. The first is to focus on greater engagement and collaboration with the School, School Council and other School Community bodies and the individuals comprising each group. The second is to continue to support our affiliated clubs, but to provide more direct guidance in terms of leadership and structure. On a final note, I would like to foreshadow this year’s OMs Annual Dinner. Set for Friday 24 August at the RACV Club, we have assembled a terrific Old Melburnians football panel to share its insights on the eve of the 2012 AFL finals series. We hope you will join AFL heavyweights Adrian Anderson (OMFC), Andrew Thompson (OM 1990) and Tom Hawkins (OM 2006) on what should be a wonderful night. Ameet Bains President
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The Old Melburnians True Olympic spirit With the London Olympic Games just a few months away, Tom King (OM 1990) reflects on his sailing achievements which include a gold medal in the 470class at the Sydney Olympics. Tom King has his mother to thank for his Olympic gold medal. Anne King signed the family up to a learn-to-sail course over a long weekend when Tom was 11 years old. Following that weekend, Tom spent school holidays sailing on farm dams and later he would spend hours on Albert Park Lake honing his sailing skills. By his own admission, Tom wasn’t the most talented young sailor, but the enjoyment and freedom he felt when he sailed stuck with him, and Australia is grateful they did. “I won an open national championship in the Mirror class when I was 16, and at that point started looking at what might come next,” he recalls. “The Olympic 470 class was the logical step for someone of my size, and at the time Australia didn’t have any internationally-competitive teams in the class, so there was a huge challenge ahead to just qualify to get to the Olympic Games.”
There were many sacrifices along the way, but Tom says he has no regrets. He is now focused on his career. He has moved away from engineering and, after a period in investment banking, has now started a clean energy-focused investment firm. He still has a competitive spirit and most recently won the World Championship in the Etchells class in February of this year, which were held in Sydney. Since his success in Sydney, the Olympics have continued to keep Tom busy. “I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to be involved with the Olympic movement again after Sydney. I chaired the Australian Olympic Committee’s Athletes Commission from 2004 to 2008, and was on the board of the Australian Olympic Committee,” he says. “I also joined the Olympic team administration for both the 2006 Winter Olympics and the 2008 Beijing Olympics.” For someone who claimed he wasn’t the most talented young sailor, Tom offers this advice to anyone pursuing something they love: “I guess this applies to any pursuit and not just sailing - find something you are passionate about, believe in yourself, dream big and go for it!”
Straight out of school, Tom deferred his engineering studies to focus on 470-class sailing. While it was not always – excuse the pun – smooth sailing, the lure of the Olympic Games was never far from the horizon. “I ended up winning the Mirror World Championships the year after I left school (1991) and immediately moved into the 470, finishing third last at the world titles,” he says. “But the challenge of getting good enough to qualify for the 1996 Games and the adventure of travelling and competing in Europe every year kept me inspired.” In his own words Tom “just” qualified for the Atlanta Olympics and finished a “disappointing” 23rd. Australia’s sailing fortunes soon turned around. Gold medalwinning Ukrainian sailing coach, Victor Kovalenko, took up the role as Australian coach and Tom was able to address the disappointment of the Atlanta Games, a result he considered to be unfinished business. “Victor’s influence completely changed our mentality from trying to catch the rest of the world to leading it. By the time we got to the Games in Sydney we were world champions and ranked number one, knowing that if we executed well we would be in the medals,” Tom said. Tom and his sailing partner, Mark Turnbull, won Australia’s first gold medal for sailing in 28 years on that memorable day (28 September 2000).
MOMENT IN TIME: Tom King (OM 1990) & Mark Turnbull celebrate that winning Olympic feeling on 28 September 2000
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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:
27 January 2012 William Patchett (OM 1998) & Adrienne Agg
11 February 2012 Quentin Sear (OM 2000) & Clare Sidgwick
3 March 2012 Alasdair Nicolson (OM 2000) & Katherine Hennig
17 March 2012 William Gillespie (OM 2003) & Sarah Flint
23 March 2012 Richard Brownlow (OM 1998) & Annabel Brougham
31 March 2012 Hugo Sampson (OM 2001) & Annabel Robson
William Chapman (OM 1977) writes “Hello, I was the only ‘yank’ in the class. Upon graduating, I went to the California Institute of Technology in Los Angeles, graduating in Engineering with an emphasis on Computer Science. After that, I went to Silicon Valley (60 km south of San Francisco), where I spent most of the following 20-odd years working on software used by designers of computer chips. It was very incestuous, using computers at the highest level to design them at the lowest level. I always had a fascination with the third world, and in 1993 I did an excursion to the Philippines, where I taught computer programming in a university for a year. In 2005 the start-up I was working at in Silicon Valley imploded (happens a lot), and I decided upon a change in scenery and moved to New York City, where I am now a financial C++ programmer, working on the 23rd floor of a skyscraper in Manhattan. I live without a car, take the subway everywhere, enjoying the social life Manhattan has to offer, and all the books I find time to read when I’m riding the subway. I went to the 30th reunion and had a great time seeing everybody.” Andrew Ryan (OM 1981) writes that he is running his own pathology laboratory in Kew after many years at Melbourne Pathology. He is married to Trish and they have three children Jack, Sophie and Tom. Phillip Turnour (OM 1981) Is a Senior Policy Analyst New Measures - OS&C Australian Taxation Office and is married to Alexandra Buchanan and they have
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two children, Angus, born in 2002 and Charlotte born in 2005.Philip’s brother, Stephen Turnour is an Old Melburnian from 1983 as is his brother-in-law, Guy Werner (OM 1980). Phillip and his family live in Ocean Grove and his interests are music, surfing, literature, cinema and cooking. Robert Cooper (OM 1983) writes that he left Australia in 1988 to work for Elcede GmbH in Germany. While there he was dispatched to South Africa (two months), England and Singapore (two months). His contract was then extended for a further six months to assist in setting up an office in Singapore. He commenced work with Hy-Q International in 1990 and then spent 18 months in Mauritius followed by a short stint back in the Melbourne head office. Robert then spent four years in the United States based in Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1994 he married Christina and they moved back to Melbourne in 1996. The couple has two children, Stephanie who was born in 2000 and Peter who was born in 2003. The family moved back to the United States in December 2004. Robert and his family are currently living in Yellow Springs, Ohio. Robert joined the Miami Township FireRescue in 2006 (www.mtfr. org) and is now a nationally certified EMT (Ambulance Medic) and Level II fire fighter. Andrew Schwarz (OM 1987) writes that he is a partner with Taylor Woodings, specialising in insolvency and forensic accounting. In this role he assists companies in distressed situations via
informal workouts or formal insolvency appointments. Andrew is a registered Liquidator and a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, CPA and the Insolvency Practitioners Association. In addition to insolvency he does a lot of forensic accounting work, in particular, business valuations, loss of profit claims and fraud investigation. Taylor Woodings is a national insolvency, forensic and corporate advisory firm which has close relations with all major banks, lawyers and accountants. Andrew is married with one daughter. Jeremy Blackman (OM 1991) is currently working for the nonprofit organisation ‘The Alannah and Madeline Foundation’ as a Senior Cybersafety Specialist. He researches emerging trends in technology and social media and its effects on the education industry. He explains that his role essentially involves feeding his research on to the Foundation’s eSmart team and into its programme. Prior to this, he was teaching English at MLC in Kew, and before that he was plying his trade as a violinist. Thindika Amarasekara (OM 1991) writes that after leaving School he studied Arts/Law at the University of Melbourne, completing his Honours year in 1998. He then worked as a lawyer at Allens Arthur Robinson in Melbourne before moving to London where he worked for a law firm until 2005. Thindika returned to Melbourne with his wife and moved out of the law and into investment
banking, working with Macquarie Bank until late 2010 before taking up a position with Deutsche Bank, also in Melbourne. He reports that he has firmly moved into family mode now and is married with three young boys aged five, three and 15 months. Jenson Ma (OM 1991) is a partner of Tan and Tan, a boutique immigration law firm, and is currently the Chair of the Migration Advisory Committee of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV) and is an accredited specialist in Immigration Law. Alister Shenfield (OM 1991) has been running his own property design and development business since 2002 in Queensland and Victoria. He is married with two daughters and lives in Hampton. His interests are keeping fit, fishing and surfing. Simon Bell (OM 1991) has been living in Singapore for six years with his wife and two daughters, both of whom were born in Singapore. Simon is the General Manager Asia for a division of Hudson Group. In this role, Simon has the opportunity to travel across China, Hong Kong, India, Japan and South East Asia. Simon recently graduated with a Masters in Science in Organisational Psychology and reports that his favourite holiday is renting a villa in Lombok, Indonesia, to go surfing and generally relax on the beach. David Whittle (OM 1994) is the Managing Director Australia, M&C Saatchi. In May 2010, David was appointed to the board of the Melbourne International Arts Festival, a government,
corporate and consumerfunded event that attracts over 500,000 people annually to experience outstanding local and global performances. In May 2007 David launched ‘Mark’, combining the digital, direct and data marketing disciplines of M&C Saatchi. ‘Mark’ is committed to developing infectious, indelible ideas that ‘Mark’ mines to elicit measurable behaviour. Prior to the launch of ‘Mark’, David led the growth of M&C Saatchi digital in Sydney – and also established and managed the M&C Saatchi digital teams in Melbourne, Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Los Angeles and New York. Before joining M&C Saatchi in
August 2003, David grew and led a large team of digital marketers at BLUE Interactive for five years. He has successfully led Direct and Digital Agency of the Year teams and been recognised by his peers, winning Victorian Young Direct Marketer of the Year in 2004. In 2007, David was the second youngest person included in the ‘Top 40 Most Influential People in the Australian Digital Industry’ and in 2008 he was included in the ‘Top 40 Under 40 of the Australian Marketing Industry’. David has a BA/BCom from Deakin University with majors in Marketing, eCommerce, Public Relations and Sociology.
Obituaries The School has learnt of the following deaths in our community. Our sympathy and understanding is extended to their family and friends.
Algar, W H (OM 1941) Burgess, J M (OM 1964) Davis, D H (OM 1939) Hicks, P A (OM 1967) Jones, B P (OM 1945) King, A J (OM 1928) Leonard, J G (OM 1948) Mc Mullin, A B (OM 1938)
Australia Day Honours 2012 Officer of the Order of Australia (AO)
Roberts, B (Current Parent) Short, J J C (OM 1927) Singleton, O P (OM 1942)
Mr Stephen Hibbert Newton (Past Staff) For distinguished service to education in the independent schools sector, through executive roles with professional organisations and advisory bodies, and to the development of educational development opportunities with China.
Thornton, A G (OM 1944) Warnock, S J (OM 1944)
Member of the Order of Australia (AM) Mr William Barrett (Barry) Capp (OM 1951) For service to business, and to the community through a range of philanthropic, social welfare and educational organisations.
Mr Andrew Charles Darbyshire (OM 1977) For service to the community as a supporter of research into child-related brain conditions, through contributions to special needs children and their families, and to the arts.
Mr David Wittner (OM 1942) For service to business, particularly footwear retailing, to professional organisations, to a range of charitable and medical research groups, and to Rotary.
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) Mr Peter Hansen (OM 1955) For service to the building and construction industry, and to the community.
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Branches & Reunions 1962 Fifty Year Reunion
Community Business Lunch
1. David Rutherford & John Stuckey
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2. Chris Wang & Stuart Gooley 3. David Rutherford, Ross Campbell, Roger Little & Sandy Clark 4. Chris Graham, Charles Varley, Quentin Miller & John Brookes
Doug McCrann (OM 1997), Terry McCrann (OM 1965) & Ameet Bains (OM 1995)
10 Bob Munro (OM 1945) & John Capp (OM 1947) 11 Andrew Smith (OM 1988), Bruce Davis (OM 1958) & Danny Bessell (OM 1986) 12 Leonard Levy (OM 1955) & Andrew Tulloch (OM 1986)
Melburnia Club Farewell to the Crews 5
Guy Maine (OM 1983) & Charles Plummer (OM 1982)
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Brad Fry (OM 1979) & Charles Hawes (OM 2002)
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Barrie Arnold (OM 1962) & Fergus Tuckett (OM 1965)
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Walter Rotter & Tony Smith (OM 1949)
1 2
3 4
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5 6
7 8
9 10
11 12
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Friends of Grammar Grimwade House Friends of Grammar Grimwade (FOGG) has had a busy start to 2012. On Tuesday 31 January, the first morning of the School year, we hosted a morning tea for the Prep parents and it was lovely to see so many parents attend after leaving their children for their first big day. On Wednesday 1 February we hosted a New Parents and Class Representatives morning tea, while on the Friday of that very busy first week of term, we delivered icy poles to all the children and teachers, hopefully providing some relief from the warm weather. We have had information nights for parents of students in the Junior, Middle and Upper Primary levels, as well as those for Grimwade House’s Specialist teachers. The FOGG team was on hand to serve light refreshments at each of these occasions. There are 65 Class Representatives this year who have been working hard organising social functions and activities. I would like to thank them for their efforts, particularly with welcoming new families to our School community. There were six Year-level functions this term, and there will be one early next term. These occasions provide an opportunity for parents to get together early in the School year. I would also like to thank those families who generously make their homes available for such occasions. We are also planning our Annual Lunch and Tennis Day, to be held on Friday 27 April at Royal South Yarra Tennis Club. This is our main ‘friend-raising’ and fundraising function for the year. We are looking forward to a successful day and encourage all to come along and offer their support. This year the FOG Grimwade Committee consists of 11 hardworking members. I would like to thank them all for their efforts in what has been a busy, but successful, start to the year. Lynne Rees FOG Grimwade House President
Wadhurst The Wadhurst year started with 180 excited Year 7 boys attending Orientation Day on the Monday before School started. For many, this marks the start of a wonderful sixyear journey for themselves and their families. The Friends of Grammar Wadhurst (FOGW) is a group of 17 volunteers who work hard throughout the year to support the School parent group, the boys and the School in general. Our first event was the sausage sizzle lunch on Orientation
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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News
Day. This helps to ensure a happy and inclusive day for all and encourages the boys to make new friends and feel comfortable. Our second event was the New Parents Coffee Morning, which was attended by a record 200 parents. The Head of Wadhurst, Greg Caldwell, and I, welcomed everyone to the School and updated them on what to expect over the coming weeks and year. With more than 40 Class Reps in place over Years 7 and 8, I am thrilled to report we have an enthusiastic bunch, committed to ‘friend-raising’. Already we have had many coffee mornings and functions organised for every house at Wadhurst. The Year 7 Cocktail Party on the Deck was a wonderful night and, when Greg Caldwell turned off the lights at 9.30pm, it appeared as if no one wanted to go home. The Year 8 Cocktail Party was hosted by FOG in the home of Stephen and Jane Hiscock and was a fabulous night that was well attended and enjoyed by all. These events are just the start of what will be a fabulous year at Wadhurst. We have our Wadhurst Dim Sum Lunch planned for May to coincide with Mothers’ Day. This is a new event but hopefully will be supported by the parents. Our Wadhurst Family Breakfast, Father and Son Trivia Night, Mothers’ and Fathers’ Day stalls, Wadhurst Sports Day and Art and Music concerts are all being organised, so keep an eye on the Weekly Bulletin for all FOGW updates. Also, don’t forget the Annual Springtime Lunch in Term IV. This is a whole School function and includes past and current parents. After its successful launch last year, we look forward to seeing you all again this year, in the Mural Hall in Myer. Last year FOGW was proud to be able to fund the purchase of new digital SLR cameras for the Art Department, microscopes for the Science Department and various other items across the various departments. These are small ways that we can enhance the boys’ learning experience at Wadhurst and none of this is possible without the support of the parent community. We look forward to having plenty of support this year.
Left to right Senior School Vice-President, Claudia Holt, Senior School President, Sam Douros, Grimwade House President, Lynne Rees, Grimwade House Vice-President, Maureen O’Keefe-Anders, Wadhurst President, Kim Monk & Wadhurst Vice President, Danielle Podolak
We have had a fabulous start to 2012 at Wadhurst. I would like to thank my dedicated committee, enthusiastic Class Reps, and everyone at The Lodge and Wadhurst who have gone out of their way to support me in my role this year. We look forward to meeting as many parents as possible over the year and hope you will participate in as many of the events as you can. Kim Monk FOG Wadhurst President
Senior School The Melbourne Grammar Senior School year has started with much anticipation. Year 12 was first to host their Cocktail Party, with Years 9 to 11 to follow later in the year. If the Year 12 evening was any indication, they are sure to be as successful as they are every year in bringing everyone together to catch up, and to establish new friendships with those who are new to the School Community. Flack Park Canteen was up and running for the first cricket match of the term, with many coffees served to the parents and plenty of drinks for the boys in the warm weather. We thank Jane Hiscock who has been instrumental in the success of the Flack Park canteen and wish her well for more leisurely Saturday mornings. The FOG girls will be out at Flack Park throughout the year to serve delicious food and fire up the now regular BBQ, especially during the colder winter months. The Quad Play, The Bacchae, was as expected a wonderful experience for all concerned and we thank the MGS parents for providing the delicious food at intermission. The performance was a unique and extraordinary display of talent and enthusiasm. Congratulations to all involved.
The two major FOG events for 2012 will be the Boys Big Breakfast and the now Annual Springtime Lunch, with plans well under way for both. The success of last year’s Lunch in bringing the entire School community together, both past and present members, will ensure its continued link with the School. The boarding community held a most enjoyable Annual Family Day on Sunday 19 February, that included an enormous BBQ lunch for all in attendance – and being a Boarding House function it was very substantial! I look forward to a closer association with the Boarder Parent Network to make the boarding experience more inclusive, particularly for those boys who are so very far from home. Thank you to my team of amazing FOG girls, many new to their busy roles. They have brought new and exciting ideas to the table – and to the Class Reps – who always put their hands up to make sure our well-oiled engine runs smoothly. Of course, FOG would not be able to function without the support of Headmaster Roy Kelley and Head of Senior School Peter Tooke, who are both generous with their time and allowing us access to the School’s resources and the amazing MGS staff. Many thanks also to all in The Lodge, particularly Judith Mein, to the Finance and Property Departments for all their help so early in the year. I look forward to working as a team with Grimwade House and Wadhurst to make the entire MGS community a warm and welcoming place for the students, staff and parents. Sam Douros FOG Senior School & Executive President
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Archives Moving into the 21st century
Patrick Walker Major (OM 1939) middle row, second from left – in the 1939 Athletics & Relay Team photo
Thousands of images from Melbourne Grammar School’s remarkable 154-year history are now available to search and download from the School’s website at www.mgs.vic.edu.au. The images are from the School’s extensive Archives and reflect many of our sporting and cultural achievements. There are a significant number of team photographs dating from the late 19th Century, particular cricket, athletics and football. Many of the football photographs of Melbourne Grammar School groups show teams when the game was played with twenty a side. Digitising the MGS Archives is a project being undertaken by contract archivist Glen Turnbull, who has extensive archival experience in a number of educational institutions. Glen has been painstakingly scanning each individual photograph, ensuring that the resolution is maximised and all details highlighted. He then adds the details of who or what is in the photograph. The project commenced early in 2011 and the results thus far have been very impressive, given the considerable size of the Melbourne Grammar School Archives. That said, the project is still only in its infancy. Meanwhile, a service to mark the 70th anniversary of the loss of the cruiser the HMAS Perth was held at the Shrine of Remembrance on 1 March this year. The ship sank during the Battle of Sunda Strait. A painting of the battle (right) was presented to the School by Jim Walker (OM 1952) in 1998. Jim’s cousin Patrick Walker Major (OM 1939) was on board the HMAS Perth. The painting hangs in the Howlett Room. Able Seaman Patrick Walker Major was on board the cruiser HMAS Perth. The cruiser had met an overwhelming Japanese naval force, engaging the enemy and firing until
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Melbourne Grammar School – Grammar News
her ammunition literally ran out. She was sunk with the loss of 353 of her crew on 1 March 1942. A further 328 men were taken into Japanese captivity, most to become slave labourers in the infinite hell of the Burma-Thai Railway. Many died there, victims of unspeakable atrocity. Only 218 men, less than a third of the ship’s original crew, survived to return home at war’s end. One of those who did not return at the end of the war was Patrick, who survived the sinking of the HMAS Perth, was captured by the Japanese and was a POW on the Burma-Thai Railway. The Japanese transport ship which he was on was returning to Japan and was sunk by a United States submarine. Pat Major again survived this sinking only to die in an Allied bombing raid on the forcedlabor facility in Japan where he was interred in the last days of the war. Patrick Walker Major’s remarkable story is one of the many that continue to live on through the MGS Archives.
Quad Play
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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 CRICOS No. 00977J ABN 61 004 453 829